Silicon Energy Washington State Introduction Packet
Solar Sculpture by World Renowned Artist at Pacific Science Center Powered by Silicon Energy
1. Solar Sculpture by World-Renowned Artist at Pacific Science Center Powered by
Silicon Energy
Innovative Sonic Bloom installation teaches youth about solar energy
August 14, 2013 – Seattle, WA – Exotic, dynamic, and solar powered – the new Sonic Bloom installation
by world-renowned artist Dan Corson seeks to create curiosity and educate visitors about solar
electricity generation. Opening today, Sonic Bloom features custom, locally made Silicon Energy
photovoltaic (PV) modules.
Photo courtesy of Silicon Energy
Sonic Bloom is an interactive bouquet of five towering sunflowers up to 33 feet tall, each covered in
stamens of single mono-crystalline cell, double-glass solar PV, 4 watt mini-modules manufactured in
Washington State by Silicon Energy. Sonic Bloom is a fun and beautiful display of PV-powered
sunflowers with petals reaching 20 feet across. The sunflowers capture sunlight during the day, which is
used to light them at night. Children can observe the impact of clouds, sun position, and shading on each
of the sunflowers’ solar energy production in real time at an interpretive kiosk. Each sunflower is
oriented at slightly different angles to highlight the photovoltaic effect as the sun progresses through
the sky.
The artist, Dan Corson, is nationally recognized for his playful large-scale outdoor sculptures
incorporating a variety of materials, and masterfully integrating the use of light. Dan chose Silicon
Energy to provide the solar PV modules based on its reputation for manufacturing high quality, durable,
yet beautiful, double glass solar PV modules that are more resistant to environmental conditions than a
standard module. Dan is pleased to showcase a locally produced solar solution, and support the growing
renewable energy manufacturing community in the Pacific Northwest.
Sonic Bloom is funded by Seattle City Light’s Green Up program, which allocates a portion of its funds to
generate interest in renewable energy. Silicon Energy is honored to be a part of this creative
2. collaboration between the Utility, the Pacific Science Center, and the artist to deliver a colorful exhibit
that engages visitors, inspiring them to understand how solar energy works.
Silicon Energy’s manufacturing facility is uniquely set up to produce the custom form factor, a single cell
double-glass solar PV module. The company’s engineering and production teams enjoyed the challenge
of scaling down the unique properties of Silicon Energy’s product to the Sonic Bloom project
requirements, with each module delivering 1/49th
of the power of a standard module.
“We are pleased to be part of this innovative project that educates the public on how well solar works in
Seattle,” said Silicon Energy president Gary Shaver. “We applaud Dan Corson’s sculptural interpretation
of a solar PV learning exhibit that delights it visitors.”
The exhibit will be on display year-round, 24 hours a day, just outside of the Boeing IMAX Theater.
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About Silicon Energy
Founded in 2007, Silicon Energy delivers the highest quality and most durable photovoltaic (PV) modules on the market today,
backed by one of the best warranties in the world. Located in Washington and Minnesota, Silicon Energy’s sustainable approach
to doing business offers customers a world-class, locally manufactured and environmentally-friendly solar PV product. The
company’s philosophy of supporting the local and US economy and its commitment to creating long-lasting, aesthetically
pleasing PV allows customers to be confident that while they are reducing their carbon footprint they are also contributing to
their local economy. Silicon Energy PV Systems are available through select partners for home, commercial, government, and
utility installations. For more information about Silicon Energy, please visit www.silicon-energy.com or call (360) 618-6500 or
(218)-789-1710.
For Media Inquiries
Revolution PR for Silicon Energy
Jennifer Karkar Ritchie, 206-354-8049, Jennifer@revolutionpr.com
Aaron Hilst, 206-355-3506, aaron@revolutionpr.com