The two companies have applied decades of engineering experience and accomplishment in their respective fields to develop what they claim as “the first fully integrated wind-solar hybrid system of substantial capacity”. The combination of advanced small wind turbines with microprocessor-controlled solar tracking technology delivers more consistent energy and represents a new chapter in small-scale on-site power generation.
“We’re pleased to enter this partnership with ATR, which integrates today’s best small wind power technology with ATR’s solar tracking expertise, resulting in cost-effective renewable energy solutions for consumers and business owners,” said Scott Brown, Interim CEO of Southwest Windpower.
Dr. Jackson Yang, CEO of ATR, added, “We are excited to join forces with Southwest Windpower to bring advanced, cost-effective renewable energy solutions to all who want clean power right where they use it.”
The initial wind-solar offering, named Skystream Hybrid 6, uses a Skystream 3.7 wind generator, six solar panels and a GPS-controlled tracking mechanism that rotates the panels to capture the best available sunlight. The tracking mechanism delivers up to 35% more energy than fixed panels on a rooftop. The solar panels and tracker are mounted on the wind turbine’s tower, which minimizes the system’s visual impact and reduces the costs compared with separate systems. State and local incentives for solar and wind systems can reduce the overall costs significantly in many locations.
The Skystream Hybrid 6 will be available initially in the continental United States later this month, followed by worldwide rollout through Southwest Windpower’s global distribution network.
Southwest Windpower and ATR are committed to continuous innovation in creating renewable power systems for varied applications. The companies plan to introduce further hybrid systems for diverse customer needs, while maintaining their strong traditions of rugged construction, safety, reliability and customer support.
Southwest Windpower has been designing and distributing small wind turbines since 1987 and is a recognised global leader in the design, manufacturing and distribution of small wind systems (160-3000 watts). The company has been a pioneer in the development of wind technology and has built and shipped more than 170,000 wind turbines to over 120 countries worldwide and has sales representation in over 88 countries.
Advanced Technology & Research Corp. (ATR), measnwhile, is a Maryland-based engineering firm with a 38-year history of excellence in military systems, robotics and automation equipment. Over the past three years, the company has developed a suite of solar power systems for small-scale commercial and residential applications.
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