The Miami- based, Sun Electric Sales Engineering Team, consisting of Christy Kimball, Lewis Louis Prophete, and myself, Bob Everhard, left Fort Lauderdale Airport to learn about the latest solar energy technologies and network at the world famous, Intersolar Show in San Francisco, held July 14th through 16th.

During the first leg of the trip, we flew over a huge wind farm in Texas. As we flew westward we saw hundreds of commercial wind mills and large areas set up with new service roads awaiting more wind generators. The good news is, it looks like many more wind generators will be coming on line soon!

After a short layover in Phoenix, we headed north for San Francisco. From an aerial view of 30,000 feet, we spied a multiple mega-watt solar farm with a new section still under construction, located somewhere in California. I was hoping the GPS on my IPhone could grab a quick fix next to the airplane window, but no luck!

After landing in San Francisco, walking toward the baggage claim, I noticed an airport kiosk, welcoming us to the Intersolar 2009! We arrived early the next day at the Moscone Expo center with thousands of other solar enthusiasts, at 10:00 am.

With an almost rock-concert-like-atmosphere we made our way through the gates to check out the latest offering in the solar industry. Professional large and small displays were on three floors. There were a large number of tracker systems on display, both full size and desk top models. For the next large PV system, there were a number of 100KW+ inverters, some the size of a minivan. If starting your own panel manufacturing plant was in your plans, there were a number of robotic solar panel assembly line solutions to check out.

If panel theft might be a problem in your area, two solar panel anti-theft devices were shown. One was an alarm system that can send a text message to you cell phone, the other, a little less high tech, was a key like mounting screw that would make removing your panels very difficult.

The number of new panels manufacturers, (many from China), was surprising addition to industry insiders that have attended the show in past years. New names in thin film manufacturing were there, too, and Sun Electronics has ordered samples for testing and review by our sales staff and installers.

Even in this challenging economy, the mood was positive and the long-term outlook looks very bright for the solar industry. Another bit of good news from the show, indicated lower prices on solar panels and some of the related equipment. As always, Sun Electronics will be your price leader in the alternative energy industry!

We look forward to passing along the new discounts we receive from our suppliers, check back to our website often for the latest updates and specials!

Looking forward to Sunny Days Ahead!

Bob Everhard, Sun Electronics Sales Engineer