[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 159 (Thursday, October 29, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2673]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              H.R. 3585, THE SOLAR TECHNOLOGY ROADMAP ACT

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                         HON. DANIEL B. MAFFEI

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 29, 2009

  Mr. MAFFEI. Madam Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to speak on 
H.R. 3585, the Solar Technology Roadmap Act. By establishing a road 
mapping process for solar research, development, and demonstration, the 
bill provides essential aid for the solar industry. I offer my 
enthusiastic support.
   Solar technology presents one of our most promising renewable energy 
sources. In fact, in my own district, the SUNY College of Environmental 
Science and Forestry (ESF), is conducting innovative research 
pertaining to solar energy and putting it to use. Several of the 
buildings on campus have solar panels that provide electricity for the 
school. The 40-kilowatt photovoltaic array on the roof of Walters Hall, 
made possible by state incentives, has the ability to generate 
electricity even on overcast days.
   Thin film PV technology and molecular PV technology are of 
particular importance as they are the future of photovoltaic 
technology. By using this second generation of solar technology, we 
will be able to significantly lower costs while increasing conversion 
efficiencies.
   I also specifically encourage demonstration projects in the 1 to 2 
megawatt range. Increasing the energy productivity on these 
technologies, I believe, will have the greatest impact on the solar 
industry.
   I congratulate Representative Giffords on her innovative legislation 
and look forward to seeing its effect on our renewable energy future.

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