Blue Square Energy Plants Roots in Maryland

North East, MD (August 31, 2004) – Jeffrey Barnett today announced the founding of Blue Square Energy (BSE), a developer and manufacturer of high-performance silicon solar cells.  He will serve as president and CEO of the company, which will be headquartered in North East, Maryland.

Already, Mr. Barnett has attracted some of the leading minds in solar energy.  Joining him will be David Ford, Jerry Culik and Chris Kendall, all industry veterans.  Mr. Ford will serve as the Director of Research and Development.  He is one of the most recognized thought leaders in the field with two “R&D 100” awards, nine U.S. technology patents and more than 15 technical papers. 

Mr. Culik will be the Director of Advanced Engineering.  With more than 25 years of industrial solar energy experience, he has researched and developed high-throughput solar cell manufacturing systems for one of the industry’s most successful companies.

As Manager of Equipment Engineering, Mr. Kendall will lead the engineering group responsible for designing and assembling the company’s commercial-scale silicon solar cell manufacturing systems.  He has over 20 years of industrial PV experience, with particular emphasis on developing high-temperature process equipment for manufacturing large area silicon wafers.

“I have been involved with the solar industry for most of my career, and always wanted to lead a company that is both revolutionary and realistic,” said Mr. Barnett.  “BSE will be a home for innovative thinkers who are not afraid to break old and inconsequential industry rules.  We will strive to deliver sustainability and self-reliance to the world with our solar power products.”

Initially, the company will focus on developing a manufacturing line for recycling used silicon into solar cells.  Those cells will be used in a variety of household appliances, including garden and accent lights. 

BSE will also dedicate significant resources towards developing the next scientific breakthrough for the solar industry.  It plans to add a number of scientists and engineers in the near future to join the R&D team.  It is also developing partnerships with the U.S. government and universities to achieve its research goals.