Renewable energy technology focus grows

Robert J. Campany and Augusta L. Withington of Fourth Coast Inc., Clayton, told the Jefferson County Job Development Corp. board a little about their work in photovoltaic solar power, energy efficiency and conservation during the board’s meeting on Thursday morning.

The firm is certified to install photovoltaic arrays by the New York State Energy Research and Development Agency.

“We get some of the most sun in the state,” Mr. Campany said. “Cape Vincent, unofficially, is the sunniest spot in the state.”

Board member Urban C. Hirschey became Cape Vincent’s supervisor after a contentious election that focused on wind power development in the town.

“Unfortunately, it’s the windiest spot, too,” he said, to laughs throughout the room.

Mr. Campany and JCJDC Chief Executive Officer Donald C. Alexander extolled the county as part of the newly-dubbed “Energy Valley” of the state.

“It’s a concept that’s very appropriate for the north country, especially the St. Lawrence Valley,” Mr. Campany said.

The new roof for Building A of the Watertown Center for Business and Industry could incorporate a photovoltaic array.

“That’s part of the reason we wanted to talk to Fourth Coast,” Mr. Alexander said. “We’ve got a resident company of local experts who are doing renewable energy builds, energy efficiency and conservation.”