Company Background
Enough sun hits the earth's surface in one hour to power global energy needs for an entire year, yet 2 billion people still do not have reliable access to electricity. Meanwhile, the entire world is clamoring for an affordable, clean, convenient and secure energy source that can power tomorrow's economic growth. Konarka is addressing these global energy challenges through the development of an integrated light-activated Power Plastic® that is inexpensive, lightweight and versatile.
Konarka is making it possible for everyday devices, systems and structures to have their own low-cost embedded sources of renewable power. Also known as photovoltaics, this technique promises to bring solar energy into widespread use, powering portable electronics, remote equipment, rural villages and rooftops with clean, inexhaustible electricity.
Why Lowell?
Konarka’s innovative technology has lead to numerous industry awards and recognitions, including being one of 13 selected industry-led solar technology projects to be awarded funding by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as part of President Bush’s Solar America Initiative. Konarka’s success can, in part, be traced to its roots in Lowell, and its affiliation with the University of Massachusetts-Lowell and its Business Incubator. “The access to the many resources of the University, including seed equity investment and professional service providers, was vital to our early success,” says Rick Hess, President and Chief Executive Officer. "The Lowell location is a wonderful analogy for Konarka. The mill space we're located in was once the hotbed of industry and innovation. We are keeping that spirit very much alive but with a 21st century flavor."
Upon receiving over $100M in financing to date, Konarka continues to expand it’s footprint at Boot Mills, and has a functioning pilot line for manufacturing its breakthrough Power Plastic® material. For more information about Konarka, go to www.konarka.com.
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