A startup solar panel manufacturer is seeking $360,000 in state and local job growth incentives to hire 150 workers for a plant in Fort Lauderdale, a move that could create several dozen green jobs in Florida (click here).
According to SustainableBusinessOregon.com, Off Grid Solar would move its headquarters from DeLand and spend $11.8 million on facilities and equipment to lease space, according to its application for Qualified Target Industry funds with Broward County. On May 4, county commissioners approved $45,000 for the company, should it meet its job growth targets in 2011 through 2014. Fort Lauderdale commissioners approved incentives of the same amount in April. The company is seeking state approval for the rest.
James McKirdy, a former disaster recovery center manager for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is founder of Off Grid Solar. As its name implies, he has the company ready to produce solar photovoltaic panels that can fully power buildings without relying on the electrical grid. The company is ready to create Florida jobs.
“We don’t believe in the grid,” McKirdy said. “You can’t make a wire smart.”
Off Grid Solar also plans to manufacture solar street-lighting systems. He said his panels are 41 percent efficient in hot direct sunlight, and can even generate power during cloudy days and from high moonlit nights.
Norman Taylor, director of economic development for Broward County, said Off Grid Solar is just the kind of high-technology company the county wants to attract for its green industry cluster. The Broward Alliance vetted the company and vouched that it is well capitalized and capable of executing its plan, he noted.
Taylor said Off Grid Solar is targeting the building at 941 S.W. 21st Terrace for its 18,564-square-foot manufacturing center. It is seeking an additional 1,000 square feet for office space, he said.
McKirdy said he could not sign a lease until the state approves its share of the QTI deal.
In addition to job growth, Off Grid Solar would empower homeowners and companies to leave the grid and take advantage of abundant natural solar energy, he said.
“Electricity is really free, especially the way we do it,” McKirdy said. “Our product absorbs the sun’s energy, and there’s nothing more powerful.”
Most solar panel manufacturers don’t distribute and install the product. By doing this, Off Grid Solar should cut down the cost for consumers, McKirdy said. He’s completed development and he’s preparing to ramp up production.
“Our actual customer base is simple,” McKirdy said. “It’s anybody who doesn’t want an electric bill.”
Tags: Green Jobs in Florida