Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-12-06

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Presidential mansion, PM's office pilot projects for photovoltaic study

[01] Presidential mansion, PM's office pilot projects for photovoltaic study

After the meeting, which took place at Sioufas' request, the minister told reporters the proposal was a follow-up on the commitment he made in Parliament for carrying out photovoltaic feasibility studies for the Presidential Mansion, the Maximos Mansion (the prime ministerâs office) and the spacious Parliament building.

Following a later meeting with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, Sioufas announced that the premier also accepted the proposal.

Sioufas noted that switching to PV electrical power generating systems -- from the current conventional electromechanical generating systems -- aims to curb dependence on oil, conserve energy as well as protect the environment.

The minister, whose portfolio includes the energy sector, said the plan is to install similar systems in government buildings - notorious inefficient as far as energy consumption is concerned - local government offices and various public sector enterprises.

Photovoltaics (PV), or solar cells as they are often referred to, are semiconductor devices that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. Groups of PV cells are electrically configured into modules and arrays, which can be used to charge batteries, operate motors, and to power any number of electrical loads. With the appropriate power conversion equipment, PV systems can also produce alternating current (AC) compatible with any conventional appliances, and operate in parallel with and interconnected to the utility grid.

Photo: EPA/ANA

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