12.05.2009 Fujitsu General Releases New VRF Systems

VRF systems in its Airstage V-II series for European, Chinese and Australian markets that realize the industry’s top-class energy-saving performance of COP 4.07 (8 hp/cooling).
An evolved version of the Airstage V series, the new series has drastically improved both its energy-saving performance and installation versatility. The company intends to sell the new products as state-of-the-art building air conditioning systems capable of exhibiting 8 – 48 hp of capacity by combining up to 3 outdoor units.
The high COP of 4.07 in cooling mode and 4.37 in heating mode has been realized by combining a newly developed ‘rounded corner type high density multi-path’ heat exchanger, sine wave driven DC inverter control and energy-saving control functions corresponding to service conditions.
The newly developed heat exchanger achieves higher efficiency through an increased inside volume that is 1.7 times as large as that of the previous heat exchanger. Efficiency has improved considerably due to adoption of copper tubes as fine as 7 mm in diameter in the high density multi-path heat exchanger. Additionally, the rounded corner shape enables the entire surface to take in air even when multiple units are connected to maintain performance.
The sine wave driven DC inverter improves the efficiency of the twin rotary compressor and the noise level of the DC fan motor has been reduced.
Installation versatility has been made possible by the new shape of the heat exchanger and the ‘corner cut intake structure’ adopted in the outdoor unit. The installation space has been reduced by 16% for the 8/10 hp classes and 44% for the 16 hp class compared to previous models.
The total allowable piping length is 1,000 meters, and up to 60 meters of piping length is possible after the first branching, thereby ensuring freer design layout in large offices and hotels.
Thanks to the industry’s top-class outside static pressure of 80 Pa (pascal), the new series also allows connection of a long discharge hood, which makes it easier to install units on upper floors or balconies.
One system can control up to 400 indoor units, and central control of a diverse variety of control functions is possible via a user-friendly touch panel controller. A system controller capable of centralized or remote control is also available via a personal computer.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

23.04.2009 Daikin and Gree to Form JVs in China

Having received a direct hit in the fourth quarter of last year from the fierce waves of the global financial crisis, the entire air conditioning industry experienced a horrendous deterioration in results. Two manufacturers specializing in air conditioning, Daikin, a company with a history spanning more than 80 years, and Gree, a company having achieved incredible growth during a short span, ultimately agreed to establish two joint venture companies in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, for joint production of key components and molds (See Related News on page 32).
To record the events surrounding this story, JARN traveled to the scene of this grand ceremony in the beautiful seaside city of Zhuhai and interviewed the CEOs of both companies. Our presence confirmed that this was no mere tie-up for establishment of a joint venture and transfer of inverter technology but rather had the overtures of a strategic alliance for both companies.
With no trace of exaggeration, this alliance can truly be called the arrival of the inverter air conditioner on a global scale.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

13.03.2009 EU Recognizes Heat Pumps as Renewable Energy

Expanding the definition of renewable energy sources to aerothermal and hydrothermal energy sources

According to the European Partnership for Energy and the Environment (EPEE), the voice of the heating, on December 17, 2008 the European Parliament adopted the eagerly awaited EU Directive on the Promotion of Renewable Energy Sources. The final compromise text recognizes for the first time aerothermal and hydrothermal energy as sources of renewable energy under EU law.
Under the new legislation each member state should increase its share of renewable energies.

EPEE was delighted that the use of aerothermal energy (energy in the air) and hydrothermal energy (energy stored in water) will now be promoted as part of the new EU policy on renewable energy sources.
Frans Hoorelbeke, Chairman of EPEE, commented "The potential of aerothermal and hydrothermal energy sources is enormous and can greatly contribute to Member States' success in reaching their renewable energy targets of 20% by 2020."

Geothermal, aerothermal and hydrothermal energy is currently exploited using heat pumps, which were recognized as such "renewable energy technologies" by the EU, alongside wind turbines and solar panels.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

04.03.2009 DOE Addresses Efficiency Requirements for Residential Water Heaters

The U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) preliminary analysis on revising the federal minimum efficiency requirements for residential water heaters of all fuel types, gas-fired pool heaters and gas-fired vented direct heating equipment indicates that small incremental increases in minimum efficiency requirements may be more likely than significant jumps. On behalf of its members, AHRI reminded DOE, at a public meeting held Feb. 9, that much of its analysis was completed before the current downturn in the economy. The association also reminded DOE that part of its analysis is based on the ability of manufacturers to design and manufacture new higher efficiency models - an ability that is greatly impacted by economic conditions, particularly when there is a lack of capital to fund design changes.

AHRI also expressed concerns regarding DOE's method of calculating the annual energy consumption of water heaters and its proposal to group fireplace heaters with either wall furnaces or room heaters depending on the design of the fireplace heater (i.e., recessed or non-recessed.) There was also a discussion concerning the introduction of heat pump water heaters in the U.S. market. While the analysis does contain a specific proposal for heat pump water heaters, DOE is seeking information on the development of such water heaters and their possible growth in the market in the five years between the projected issuance of the final rule in March 2010 and the effective date in 2015. AHRI's water heater manufacturers agreed to address this issue in written comments to be submitted by March 16. DOE is also proposing to exclude from this rulemaking heat pump water heaters that are sold to be added on to existing water heaters.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

25.02.2009 U.S. December Heating and Cooling Unit Shipments

Central Air Conditioners and Air-Source Heat Pumps Combined U.S. factory shipments of central air conditioners and air-source heat pumps for December totaled 238,160, down 28 percent compared with the same month a year ago. For the year-to-date, combined shipments totaled 5,833,354, a 9 percent drop compared with the same period last year.

Heat pump shipments for December totaled 96,497, down 16 percent from the same month a year ago. For the year-to-date, heat pump shipments totaled 1,865,310, a 2 percent drop compared with the same period last year.

Warm Air Furnaces
U.S. factory shipments of gas-fired, warm-air furnaces in December totaled 178,856, a 19 percent drop compared with the same month a year ago. Oil-fired, warm-air furnaces for the same month totaled 5,887, a 28 percent drop compared with December 2007 totals. For the year-to-date, gas furnace shipments totaled 2.3 million, an 18 percent drop compared with the same period last year. Oil furnace shipments for the year-to-date totaled 59,255, a 29 percent drop compared with the same period last year.

Storage Water Heaters
Residential electric water heater shipments for December totaled 326,945, a 25 percent drop from the same month a year ago. Residential gas water heater shipments totaled 353,882, a 19 percent decrease compared with shipments for the same month last year. For the year-to-date, about 4 million residential gas water heaters have been shipped, a 9 percent drop compared with the same period a year ago. For the year-to-date, about 4.2 million residential electric storage water heaters have been shipped, a 6 percent drop compared to the same period last year.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

17.02.2009 GEA Continues to Extend Food Freezing Business

Bochum/'s-Hertogenbosch, February 3, 2009 - GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft acquires the second company in 2009 within its Refrigeration Division by taking over Intec USA, a leading supplier of carton freezing and chilling systems headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, USA. In 2008, Intec generated sales of approximately EUR 8 million with a workforce of about 20 employees.
The acquisition took effect on January 30, 2009.
The acquisition of Intec emphasizes the strategy of GEA Refrigeration to acquire companies which complement GEA Refrigeration's technological or geographical product portfolio. Cooling and freezing technology for the food industry are important growth areas within GEA Refrigeration. After acquiring Aerofreeze (Canada) in 2007 and developing Aerofreeze Europe (France) in 2008, GEA Refrigeration ensures further growth in this segment with the acquisition of Eurotek (UK) and now Intec USA in January 2009.
The newly acquired company with its carton freezer product line and technology ideally complements the spiral and tunnel freezers of Aerofreeze in North America, Europe, South America and Middle East.
Because of the high demand for food safety and corresponding quality standards, carton freezers have become the standard technology for freezing boxes worldwide. Purpose of these freezers is the cooling, chilling and freezing of food products in a continuous process in an industrial environment.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

10.02.2009 GEA Continues to Extend Food Freezing Business

Bochum/'s-Hertogenbosch, February 3, 2009 - GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft acquires the second company in 2009 within its Refrigeration Division by taking over Intec USA, a leading supplier of carton freezing and chilling systems headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, USA. In 2008, Intec generated sales of approximately EUR 8 million with a workforce of about 20 employees.
The acquisition took effect on January 30, 2009.
The acquisition of Intec emphasizes the strategy of GEA Refrigeration to acquire companies which complement GEA Refrigeration's technological or geographical product portfolio. Cooling and freezing technology for the food industry are important growth areas within GEA Refrigeration. After acquiring Aerofreeze (Canada) in 2007 and developing Aerofreeze Europe (France) in 2008, GEA Refrigeration ensures further growth in this segment with the acquisition of Eurotek (UK) and now Intec USA in January 2009.
The newly acquired company with its carton freezer product line and technology ideally complements the spiral and tunnel freezers of Aerofreeze in North America, Europe, South America and Middle East.
Because of the high demand for food safety and corresponding quality standards, carton freezers have become the standard technology for freezing boxes worldwide. Purpose of these freezers is the cooling, chilling and freezing of food products in a continuous process in an industrial environment.

source: http://www.ejarn.com/

03.02.2009 Obama Calls for Doubling Renewable Energy in 3 Years

U.S. President Barack Obama last month called for doubling the nation's renewable energy production in three years asking Congress to support his economic stimulus plan. He also wants funding for energy efficiency improvements to federal buildings and millions of homes.
Obama also called for funding to modernize the nation's electricity grid and make 75 percent of all federal buildings and up to 2 million American homes more energy efficient.
"In the process, we will put Americans to work in new jobs that pay well and can't be outsourced - jobs building solar panels and wind turbines; constructing fuel-efficient cars and buildings; and developing the new energy technologies that will lead to even more jobs, more savings, and a cleaner, safer planet in the bargain," Obama said in a speech at George Mason University.
Obama has pledged three million new jobs with his stimulus plan, which also includes tax cuts, investment in computerizing medical records, modernizing schools and universities, repairing roads and bridges and expanding broadband access to rural towns.
As for measures to promote renewable energy and other green industries, Obama has yet to release further details of his plan, which could call for as much as $800 billion over two years in tax cuts and spending.

source: http://www.ejarn.com/

27.01.2009 Sanyo and Nippon Oil Establish Thin-film Solar Cell J.V.

Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. and Nippon Oil Corporation announced that they have decided to launch a joint company for the production and sale of thin-film solar panels, to be named SANYO ENEOS Solar Co., Ltd.
With the growing awareness of climate change, realizing a low-carbon society is becoming a common global challenge. In addition, the worldwide economic stagnation triggered by the financial crisis is becoming more severe. To address these problems, the United States has put forward a new proactive policy and a movement to actively introduce clean, unlimited solar energy as an unlimited resource is progressing significantly.
Among all the types of solar products, thin-film solar panels are able to achieve lower costs for large-scale power generation systems with a market that is expected to rapidly expand in the future.
For this joint project, Sanyo will draw on its solar cell technologies, based on the technology acquired through the development of the HIT Solar Cell*, which is capable of the world's highest conversion efficiency, as well as its extensive research performed over the last thirty years related to thin-film solar cell technologies. Nippon Oil Corporation will utilize its raw materials technologies, such as petroleum production, acquired through petroleum processing and chemicals manufacturing, and the strong relationships it has established with oil-producing countries in the Middle East etc. which are expected to become major markets for photovoltaic systems in the future.

source: http://www.ejarn.com/

05.01.2009 Danfoss Expands Portfolio with Microchannel Heat Exchangers

Danfoss recently expanded its portfolio of heat exchangers with the introduction of the company's own range of microchannel heat exchangers through its joint venture, Danfoss Sanhua.
As fuel and copper prices continue to soar and legislators pass stricter legislation to protect the environment, energy efficiency, reliability and running costs have become increasingly important for customers and manufacturers alike.
Microchannel heat exchangers have been used for more than 20 years by automotive manufacturers who wanted efficient heat exchange in a compact design. Today, the advantages of microchannel systems are beginning to challenge traditional fin-and-tube exchangers in the HVAC&R industry.
With the introduction of the efficient and reliable range of microchannel heat exchangers, Danfoss underlines its commitment to developing efficient solutions that both make financial sense and protect the environment, especially due to lower refrigerant charges and recyclable materials.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

01.12.2008 Carrier Acquires Noresco to Expand Energy Solutions Capabilities

Carrier Corp.has acquired Noresco, a leading independent energy services company. The acquisition was completed on Nov. 20. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Established in 1984, Noresco has implemented thousands of efficiency and infrastructure upgrade projects that reduced energy and water consumption and lowered operating expenses for a wide range of customers including federal, state, and municipal agencies; educational institutions; hospitals; utilities; and commercial and industrial facilities. Noresco is headquartered in Westborough, Mass., and has 20 offices in the U.S.
"Noresco complements the depth and breadth of Carrier's portfolio and is an integral part of our strategy to offer sustainable, comprehensive, end-to-end building solutions," said Kelly Romano, president, Carrier Building Systems and Services. "We are able to offer our customers sustainable products, services and solutions that lower total cost of ownership and deliver high performance buildings." The acquisition of Noresco adds to Carrier's commitment to environmental leadership and further reinforces why Carrier is the only air-conditioning systems manufacturer to be named an Environmental Protection Agency Climate Leader.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

26.11.2008 Hitachi to Focus on More Business In China, India

Hitachi Ltd. will focus more on the business of such white goods as air conditioners in Chinese and Indian markets, according to a recent Japanese newspaper report.
The Hitachi group intends to reportedly boost its stake in a production and sales joint venture in Shanghai from 60% to 95% for an estimated amount of more than 2 billion yen.
Hitachi considers this joint venture its main Chinese production site for home air conditioners and washing machines. By taking stronger control of management, it hopes to be able to more quickly make such decisions as increasing output of products.
The company plans to construct an Indian plant for commercial air conditioners. This facility, to be built next to an existing home air conditioner factory, is slated to begin operations this coming spring.
The firm aims to boost its market share in India from the current 14% or so to 20% by 2010. It plans to also bolster sales by increasing local sales personnel by 40%.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

30.10.2008 Sharp Ships 2nd-Generation Thin-Film Solar Cells

On October 1, 2008, Sharp held a ceremony at its Katsuragi Plant (Katsuragi City, Nara Prefecture, Japan) to commemorate the plant's first shipment of thin-film solar cell modules that use glass substrates measuring 1,000 x 1,400 mm.
The modules were made at Katsuragi Plant's new production line, which began mass production in October. The glass substrates are 2.7 times larger than previous substrates (560 x 925 mm). The addition of this new line expands annual production capacity at the Katsuragi Plant for thin-film solar cells to 160 MW.
The new line produces second-generation thin-film solar cells boasting a module conversion efficiency of 9%, one of the highest levels in the industry, and a high power output of 128 W.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

04.09.2008 Daikin to Acquire German Heating Manufacturer ROTEX

Daikin Europe N.V., a wholly owned subsidiary of Daikin Industries, has reached an agreement to acquire ROTEX Heating System GmbH. The final transfer of business, subject to the approval of antitrust clearance in Germany, is expected to take place by October 1, 2008.
Moves to replace fuel-burning heaters with electric air heating systems are expected to spread in Europe as environmental efforts accelerate there.
Since the launch of heat pump type hot water heating systems in 2006, the Daikin heating business in Europe has been favorably recognized for providing high energy-efficiency and has achieved an expansion in sales from approximately 4 billion yen in 2006 to 10 billion yen in 2007.
ROTEX is a company based in Germany as well as in other countries including Italy and France that manufactures and sells highly efficient condensing boilers, floor heating systems, solar water heaters, and other products. The company also possesses a solid sales network and extensive know-how in the heating business.
This acquisition will allow the Daikin Group to accelerate expansion of its heating business by enhancing its lineup of low CO2 heating products and reinforcing its sales network.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

15.05.2008 Carrier Agrees with German Group for Five CO2 Plants.

Carrier Corporation has signed an agreement with the ALDI SUD group, Monchengladbach, Germany, to install five more refrigerating plants using Carbon Dioxide (CO2) refrigerant at its German branches. The projects were defined and ordered at EuroShop 2008 in February and installation will begin in May.
ALDI S?D, a global acting discount retailer, commissioned its first Carrier CO2 refrigeration plant in 2006. Today ALDI SUD operates seven environmentally sound refrigerating plants in Germany, accounting for approximately 80 percent of all trans-critical CO2 plants in the food retail business in the country.
"Two years ago, ALDI SUD made a forward-looking decision to pursue an environmentally sound course with CO2 refrigeration, and we are most pleased to continue working with them," said Philippe Delpech, president, Carrier Commercial Refrigeration EMEA.
Carrier's innovative CO2OLtec? technology, which debuted in 2005, offers welcome relief to food retailers concerned about global warming and the environment. Today, Carrier's CO2OLtec? system is gaining traction in the European food retail segment, with particular success in Switzerland, Germany and Scandinavia. For low-temperature applications, 120 stores with a total of 3,900 kW installed cooling capacity are in operation today; in addition 22 stores are equipped with CO2OLtec? technology for medium temperature with a total capacity of 4,000 kW.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

21.04.2008 Carrier Unveils 3000-ton 19XRD Centrifugal Chiller.

Carrier's new 3000 refrigeration ton (RT) Evergreen 19XRD dual compressor centrifugal chiller represents cutting-edge heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) industry technology. It is Carrier's largest single-unit cooling capacity chiller employing non-ozone depleting refrigerant HFC134a to be manufactured in Shanghai, China.
Carrier's Global Research and Development (R&D) Center in Shanghai developed and engineered the Evergreen 19XRD chiller for large airports, shopping malls, commercial complexes, factories and district cooling plants. It debuted April 9-11 at the "China Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Exhibition," China's largest industry exhibition.
Carrier will manufacture the Evergreen 19XRD in China for both the local and global market. The new chiller contains Carrier-patented technology designed to improve indoor air quality and provide environmental benefits. It has China Standard Certification Center certification as an energy-saving product .

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

04.04.2008 Daikin and Gree Agree on Production of Inverter ACs.

Daikin Industries, Ltd. and Gree Electric Appliances, Inc. of Zhuhai (based in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, PRC) have agreed that Daikin will commission Gree to manufacture 500,000 small inverter air conditioners, which Daikin will market in Japan in 2009. The two companies have also agreed to study four other areas of collaboration including joint development of residential air conditioners and joint procurement for such products for the Global market.
Daikin will plan and develop the products, Gree will manufacture for Daikin, and the products will carry the Daikin brand. Gree will establish a dedicated production line with special inspection equipment for Daikin products to assure product quality meeting Daikin's standard.
Daikin plans to build a mold factory in China, the first joint effort of its business partnership with the world's largest supplier of home-use air conditioners, as reported by a Japanese newspaper.
The two partners reportedly plan to jointly develop low-priced air conditioners that feature energy-saving functions. With an eye on tougher environmental regulations worldwide, they hope to combine Daikin's development technologies for key components with Gree's low-cost production techniques. The partners aim to release such products under their individual brands in fall 2009.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

25.03.2008 Airwell Group to acquire Fedders Residential HVAC.

Airwell Group has announced that it has purchased from Fedders North America Inc. 100% of Fedders' Residential HVAC business, including current inventory, trademarks, technology and related assets. The business will be conducted within Airwell-Fedders North America Inc., under Airwell Air Conditioning BV and its parent company ELCO Holdings, Ltd.
The contract of sale and other aspects of the purchase have been approved by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
This purchase represents the entrance of Airwell Air Conditioning, BV into the North American air conditioning market. Airwell was founded in 1947 and is one of the world's leading manufacturers and distributors of air conditioners and central air conditioning systems with production facilities in France, Italy, Israel, China and Argentina, with marketing presence worldwide. In 2006 Airwell posted annual sales exceeding US $500m. Airwell Air Conditioning, BV is a wholly owned subsidiary of ELCO Holdings Ltd., headquartered in Tel Aviv, with consolidated annual sales of US $1.3b, employing more than 6,500 employees worldwide.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

21.03.2008 ASERCOM Energy Efficiency Award 2008: Win €10,000.

Due to the high level of participation and its success in previous years the Association of European Refrigeration Component Manufacturers (ASERCOM) is proud to announce once again the sponsorship of the 2008 ASERCOM Energy Efficiency Award.
The association would like to recognize an outstanding innovative concept to improve energy efficiency. Energy consumption over the lifetime of refrigeration and air conditioning systems has a greater contribution to greenhouse gases than HFC refrigerant direct emissions. In Europe, for example, such systems account for approximately 14% of the overall power consumption. Hence, efficiency improvement is our industry's primary responsibility in the reduction of emissions.
The € 10,000 award is granted for the most innovative energy saving concept or system in refrigeration/air conditioning, including heat pumps. An international panel of technical experts will evaluate the applications. Applications must present a new concept which is technically feasible and economically viable.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

17.03.2008 Denso North America Names New President and CEO.

Denso recently announced that Haruya Maruyama will be named president and CEO of Denso International America (DIAM), Denso's North American headquarters, effective April 1. Maruyama is a managing officer of Denso Corporation and current president of Denso Automotive Deutschland GmbH (DNDE), Denso's sales and engineering company in Eching, Germany. Currently, Kenji Ohya, Denso senior managing director responsible for the sales group is serving as DIAM's president.
Maruyama began his career in Denso's Tokyo sales office in 1978. Following a series of positions in the sales group, Maruyama was named president of DNDE in July 2002, and in June 2004, he was promoted to a managing officer of Denso responsible for all sales activities throughout Europe.
During his tenure as president of DNDE, he reinforced the organization of European sales companies and led the sales expansion of Denso products such as air conditioners and diesel injection systems to European automakers.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

01.02.2008 Daikin to Establish of New AC Factory in India.

Daikin Industries, Osaka, Japan, through its subsidiary Daikin Airconditioning India Pvt. Ltd., has recently acquired an industrial site to establish a new air-conditioning equipment production base in the Neemrana Industrial Area of the state of Rajasthan, Republic of India.
With an investment of approximately 3.7 billion yen, construction of the new factory will begin next spring and operations are scheduled to commence in March 2009. Manufacture of multi-split type commercial-use air-conditioning equipment and chillers is first planned at the factory. By reducing supply lead-time and meeting market needs in terms of product specifications, Daikin intends to strengthen its competitiveness in the Indian AC market. Product supply to Southwest Asia, the Middle East and Africa is also envisioned in the future.
Aiming to further improve the level of product quality and service, Daikin will also establish a research & training center within the factory grounds for the purpose of enhancing workmanship in terms of installation, commissioning, after sales service, etc.
The scale of the Indian AC market in fiscal 2007 is regarded as 110 billion yen, while AC ownership stands at less than two percent. Construction of large-scale commercial facilities and projects, including construction and upgrading of airports, has increased sharply accompanying recent economic growth. Air-conditioning demand is expected to surpass 200 billion yen in 2010.
Daikin Airconditioning India Pvt. Ltd. currently imports and sells air-conditioning equipment and enjoys high market share in the commercial-use luxury air-conditioning market, and has established the Daikin brand in the country. It has domestic sales bases in major cities and plans sales of approximately nine billion yen in fiscal 2007.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

01.02.2008 Danfoss Announces 2008 EnVisioneering Symposia Series.

Danfoss, a global leader in supplying components, controls, compressors and systems for air conditioning and refrigeration, recently announced the following dates for its 2008 EnVisioneeringSM Symposia Series:
o Symposium 7 - "Is the Tide Turning? The Future of Energy and Energy Efficiency Strategy," April 4, Washington, D.C. This event will address whether the world has reached a tipping point on energy and efficiency strategy. o Symposium 8 - "The Challenge of Innovation: What the Private Sector Needs to Create a 21st Century, Energy-Efficient Built Environment," Nov. 7, Carlsbad, Calif. Scheduled to coincide with the Air conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute's annual meeting, this symposium will address how energy efficiency technology is creating novel possibilities - and positive returns on investment - in the built environment. In addition to these two national "macro" events, Danfoss will add a series of regional "micro" symposia to the 2008 EnVisioneering Symposia Series. The regional events will bring together specialists and key players in select industries, focusing on topics that are especially relevant to those industries.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

01.02.2008 Carrier Signs MOU with Clinton Climate Initiative.

Carrier Corp. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) to provide its energy-efficient, non-ozone depleting water-cooled chillers to qualified C40 cities and private building owners in the C40. Carrier is the first heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) company to sign an MOU with the CCI for energy-efficient products. The CCI is a project of the William J. Clinton Foundation. The C40 is a group of the world's largest cities committed to tackling climate change.
"Carrier has been an industry leader in environmental stewardship for decades, and this agreement is yet another testament to our ability to be an environmental champion," said Geraud Darnis, president, Carrier Corp.
The MOU results in discounts on these products to C40 cities and other CCI partners, thereby improving the payback on chiller replacements. The MOU is aligned with the CCI Energy Efficiency Building Retrofit Program (launched May 2007), which provides cities and private building owners with access to financing terms to retrofit existing buildings with more energy-efficient systems.
"Both Carrier and CCI recognize that it is imperative to accelerate the adoption of new, affordable energy-saving technologies in the C40 cities - which comprise nearly half of the global population, consume 75 percent of the world's energy, and produce nearly 80 percent of its greenhouse gas emissions," said Kelly Romano, president, Building Systems and Services (BSS), Carrier Corp.
Under the program, Carrier will leverage its extensive global sales and distribution organization to provide technical support and systems design, in addition to offering water-cooled chillers for replacement equipment in response to tenders issued by CCI-approved entities, such as mechanical contractors and energy service companies. The C40 is an association of large U.S. and international cities that have committed to tackling climate change and have pledged to accelerate their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and serve as models for other cities.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

21.01.2008 MHI Launches New KX6 Series VRF Systems.

In January Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) released the high efficiency, compact KX6 M-Series VRF air conditioning systems. A drastically redesigned version of the previous series, the new series consists of 6 outdoor unit models and 68 indoor unit models available in 14 types. The newly released models, equivalent to 4, 5 and 6 hp, are intended for small offices, small stores and high-end residences including luxury apartments.
Main Features of New Products
o High efficiency
By adopting the component technologies mentioned below, the 4, 5 and 6 hp models have attained the high energy efficiency (COP) of 4.0 and 4.3, 3.36 and 3.71 and 3.29 and 3.72 in the cooling and heating modes respectively.
- New twin rotary compressor
- Compact and highly efficient heat exchanger
- New inverter control (vector inverter control)
The new inverter control enables smooth operation from low to high speed, having attained a further improvement in energy efficiency in the low speed range. MHI has also realized optimum refrigerant system control by improving the refrigerant circuit based on technologies developed through many years of experience; specifically, optimized refrigerant distribution in the heat exchanger, an advanced control system for refrigerant return protection and also high-speed system control with the new Superlink system.
o Compact design
By reducing the number of fans from 2 (in the previous unit) to 1, MHI has made the heat exchanger drastically more compact while retaining its performance level. The new single-fan heat exchanger can exhibit performance comparable to or higher than that of the previous 2-fan heat exchanger by optimizing the air velocity and fin pattern relationship and also maximizing the distribution of air in the heat exchanger.
The outdoor unit has realized a reduction of 34% in weight and volume by making the printed circuit board (PCB) more compact.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

12.01.2008 Matsushita Electric to Change Name to Panasonic Corp.

January 10, 2008 - Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., best known for its Panasonic brand, announced that the company will change its company name to 'Panasonic Corporation' effective October 1, 2008. The company will also unify its corporate brands to the 'Panasonic' brand across the world.
The change, that was approved at the company's extraordinary board meeting on January 10, will be submitted for and subject to approval at its ordinary general meeting of shareholders to be held in late June this year.
Upon a company name change, the company will undertake its brand name change from the 'National' brand, which is used for home appliances and housing equipment in Japan, to the 'Panasonic' brand by the end of fiscal 2010, ending March 31, 2010. Subsequently, the 'National' brand will be abandoned and the corporate brands in Japan will be unified to the 'Panasonic' Brand.
The company has been using a company name 'Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.' since 1935, following its earlier names 'Matsushita Electric Manufacturing Works' since 1929 and 'Matsushita Electric Housewares Manufacturing Works' since 1918 when it was first established. While the company was using 'National' and 'Panasonic' brand names over the period, it decided in 2003 to unify a global brand into 'Panasonic' with a brand slogan 'Panasonic ideas for life.'
The timing to change the company name and unify its global brand coincides with its 90th anniversary this year. At the same time, some group companies which currently use 'Matsushita' or 'National' in their names will also change their company names using 'Panasonic.' Together with the brand unification in Japan, the company will lead all its resources and activities to enhancing the value of 'Panasonic' brand.
The new 'Panasonic Corporation' and its group companies worldwide will continue to run its business based on its founder Konosuke Matsushita's business philosophy known as; 'A company is a public entity,' 'Customer-comes-first principle' and 'Start fresh everyday.'

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

19.12.2007 Ingersoll Rand to Acquire Trane Inc.

Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited announced on December 17, 2007 that it has executed a definitive agreement to acquire Trane Inc., formerly American Standard Companies Inc., in a transaction valued at approximately $10.1 billion, including transaction fees and the assumption of approximately $150 million of Trane net debt. Trane is a global leader in indoor climate control systems, services and solutions with expected 2007 revenues of $7.4 billion.
Herbert L. Henkel, Ingersoll Rand chairman, president and chief executive officer, said, "The combination of Ingersoll Rand and Trane will create a global, diversified industrial company with projected pro forma 2008 revenues of $17 billion. The new Ingersoll Rand portfolio will include an $11 billion Climate Control business which will offer high value equipment, systems and services necessary for delivering solutions across the temperature spectrum for indoor, stationary, and transport applications worldwide.
"As a result of expected revenue and cost synergies, we are confident that this acquisition will improve Ingersoll Rand's future earnings growth potential. We believe the new Ingersoll Rand will be capable of sustaining annual organic revenue growth averaging 5-7% and EPS growth exceeding 15% per year, both in excess of our former growth guidance. In particular, assuming timely consummation of the proposed acquisition, we anticipate earnings of $4.00 per share in 2008."
Fred Poses, Trane chairman and CEO said, "For our shareowners, this offer represents an attractive price for our shares today and the opportunity to participate in a powerful global diversified industrial company in the future. Combining Trane and Ingersoll Rand's climate control operation creates a very strong business. With the size, strength and operational effectiveness of a $17 billion global industrial company, we believe this combination is best for our customers, employees and shareowners in the long term." Poses will remain in his position until the acquisition is completed.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

15.12.2007 UK Health Agency Confirms Sanyo's Air Purifying.

System with Virus Washer technology suppresses 99.999994% of airborne Bacteria Sanyo Europe Ltd, a subsidiary of Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., a 'leading provider of Environment- and Energy-related products', announced that its innovative Air Purifying System equipped with 'Virus Washer technology' (Model: VW-VF10BG) has been proven to suppress 99.999994% of an airborne bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis) from treated air following extensive tests by the UK Health Protection Agency at Porton Down.
People are becoming increasingly concerned with air quality over recent years and hospital 'superbugs' such as 'MRSA' and 'Clostridium difficile' are continuing to cause the health service significant problems. The need for effective methods to combat airborne bacteria, viruses and allergens is ever-increasing and Sanyo's Virus Washer technology was developed to do just that. The Virus Washer technology operates by creating electrolyzed water, which is done by combining tap water with electricity.
The Virus Washer uses an electrolyzed water disinfecting element to inactivate airborne infective agents and allergens. The unit works by electrolyzed water running over the air purification element in the Virus Washer. Indoor air is then forced to circulate through the element, inactivating airborne bacteria and viruses which pass through it.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

29.11.2007 Japan, U.S. Agree To Work on Post-Kyoto Regime.

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and U.S. President George W. Bush said Friday they have agreed to work together to build a new regime to fight global warming beyond the expiration in 2012 of the Kyoto Protocol.
The agreement reached at their summit in Washington centers on the two countries' cooperation in establishing a ''Bali Roadmap that will advance formal negotiations on an effective post-2012 framework'' when a key U.N. conference is held in Bali, Indonesia, in December, a joint statement released by both governments said.
It seeks a deal at a U.S.-led climate change forum in 2008, to be followed by a final accord under the United Nations no later than 2009 with major greenhouse gas emitters such as China, India and the United States included, the statement said.
Japan and the United States also agreed to collaborate to ''make tangible progress toward the establishment of an effective framework'' in the post-2012 period at next year's Group of Eight summit that Japan will host in Hokkaido's Lake Toya area.
The U.S.-led forum held the first talks in Washington in September. At the talks, Bush made it clear that it wants to expedite negotiations for a post-Kyoto framework under the United Nations.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

19.11.2007 EU F-Gas Committee Adopts Implementing Measures.

The EU Fluorinated Gases (F-Gas) Regulation covers the containment and recovery of F-Gases by equipment operators. The regulation - which went into effect on July 4 -- also sets forth a range of obligations, including timely repair of refrigerant leaks; leak detection and reporting for equipment maintenance and repairs.
On Oct. 12, the EU F-Gas Regulatory Committee adopted implementing measures on labeling, reporting and leak detection for stationary refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat pump equipment. These measures are part of the ongoing process to refine the F-Gas regulation.
The Commission said labels should reflect the language where the product is placed on the market for the first time, not where the product is intended for sale. The entry into force date for labeling is now April 1, 2008, which gives the industry five months to comply.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

17.11.2007 Danfoss Introduces Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers.

Danfoss has introduced the newest extension of its product portfolio, brazed plate heat exchangers. Danfoss brazed plate heat exchangers are tailored for refrigeration and air conditioning systems, can be customized for specific application requirements, and offer an environmentally responsible solution for a wide range of applications. Each brazed plate heat exchanger is engineered to add value over its lifetime, providing superior performance and cost-effectiveness.
Each brazed plate heat exchanger consists of a series of thin, corrugated metal plates that are brazed together to improve heat transfer efficiency. The plates are compressed together in a rigid frame to create an arrangement of parallel flow channels, in which one high-viscosity fluid travels through the odd-numbered channels, and the other high-viscosity fluid flows through the even.
"We are continuously striving to develop and provide environmentally friendly and energy-efficient products," says Peter J. D'Ambrosio, strategic global marketing manager-heat transfer, Danfoss Inc. "Our brazed plate heat exchangers are space-saving, offer a highly flexible design for manufacturing, and require less use of refrigerants."

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

09.11.2007 Fujitsu General to Build New Plant in China for VRF.

Toyota Industries presented its latest innovations in automotive technology at a press conference on 25 October, at the occasion of the Tokyo Motor Show 2007. Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) Technology was a key feature of the company's presentation.
CO2 Compressor Development
In its press conference, the company referred to EU legislation banning MAC systems based on the current refrigerant, HFC-134a, and the subsequent decision by the German Automotive Industry Association VDA to adopt the natural refrigerant CO2 (R744) as a substitute. In this context, Toyota Industries announced that it "will accelerate the development of its CO2 Refrigerant Compressor to bring it to the market".
Moreover, the company is displaying its CO2 compressor model at their stand in the Tokyo exhibition. This technology was also mentioned as one example of environmental technologies that could provide a competitive advantage to stay ahead of the competition. The company thus expects to strengthen its leading market position worldwide.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

04.11.2007 Toyota Industries to Accelerate CO2 Compressors Development.

Luvata, the global supplier of fabricated metal solutions, services and components to the manufacturing and construction industries announced in May 2007 the signing of an agreement to acquire ECO SpA, the world's foremost manufacturer of heat-transfer coils and coolers. The ECO Group currently employs about 2,400 staff and reported net sales of ?325 million in 2006. It is currently indirectly owned by Compass Partners European Equity Fund and by the company management.
The acquisition represents a strategic opportunity for Luvata to strengthen its product offering in value-added solutions to Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) customers. The ECO Group has a strong, established position in Europe, complementing Luvata's position in North America. Both groups have growing presences in Asia. The combination of the two organisations will afford them a better physical presence in more key regions of existing and emerging business. The global HVACR equipment market is estimated to be worth in excess of US$60 billion.
Luvata emerged when Outokumpu Copper Products was acquired by Nordic Capital in 2005. Luvata has been promoting an approach of better understanding its customers' businesses - a philosophy it terms: "Partnerships Beyond Metals". Since over two thirds of the ECO Group's products are co-designed with specific customers, it is seen as a good strategic fit.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

24.10.2007 Luvata Acquires ECO Group.

Luvata, the global supplier of fabricated metal solutions, services and components to the manufacturing and construction industries announced in May 2007 the signing of an agreement to acquire ECO SpA, the world's foremost manufacturer of heat-transfer coils and coolers. The ECO Group currently employs about 2,400 staff and reported net sales of ?325 million in 2006. It is currently indirectly owned by Compass Partners European Equity Fund and by the company management.
The acquisition represents a strategic opportunity for Luvata to strengthen its product offering in value-added solutions to Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) customers. The ECO Group has a strong, established position in Europe, complementing Luvata's position in North America. Both groups have growing presences in Asia. The combination of the two organisations will afford them a better physical presence in more key regions of existing and emerging business. The global HVACR equipment market is estimated to be worth in excess of US$60 billion.
Luvata emerged when Outokumpu Copper Products was acquired by Nordic Capital in 2005. Luvata has been promoting an approach of better understanding its customers' businesses - a philosophy it terms: "Partnerships Beyond Metals". Since over two thirds of the ECO Group's products are co-designed with specific customers, it is seen as a good strategic fit.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

11.10.2007 Accelerated Phaseout Set for HCFCs.

The 19th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol (MOP-19) on substances that deplete the ozone layer was held in Montreal, Canada, on Sept. 17-21. The meeting concluded with an historic agreement to accelerate the phaseout date of manufacturing equipment using hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by 10 years.
As part of the agreement reached on Sept. 21, developed countries (Article 2) will phase out all new equipment using HCFCs by 2020 instead of 2030, the previous deadline. The new agreement also calls for reduction steps of 75 percent in 2010, 90 percent in 2015, and allows 0.5 percent for servicing the period 2020-2030.
In 1987, the Montreal Protocol established requirements that began the worldwide phaseout of ozone-depleting chemicals. Under the new agreement, developing countries (Article 5) will now phase out all new equipment using HCFCs by 2030, (instead of 2040, the previous deadline) with reduction steps of 10 percent by 2015, 35 percent by 2020, and 67.5 percent by 2025. It allows for servicing an annual average of 2.5 percent from 2030-2040.
In addition, Article 5 countries agreed to choose as the baseline the average of the 2009 and 2010 levels of consumption and production. Those countries also agreed to freeze consumption and production in 2013 at the baseline level. Parties also agreed to replenish the Multilateral Fund to enable Article 5 countries to comply with the accelerated phaseout schedule

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

27.09.2007 HVAC&R Industry's Role in Montreal Protocol Successes.

As this month marks the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Montreal Protocol, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) celebrates the efforts of the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) industries that have played a role in reducing ozone depletion.
The Montreal Protocol on Ozone Layer Depleting Substances is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of a number of substances believed to be responsible for ozone depletion.
"ASHRAE has played a substantial role in stopping further ozone depletion by helping the industry to transition away from ozone-depleting refrigerants," Kent Peterson, ASHRAE president, said. "The Montreal Protocol has shown that when we do what is right for mankind, our initial burden can turn to benefit. Not only has the Montreal Protocol improved the ozone layer, but it also initiated vast technological improvements in air conditioning equipment."
ASHRAE has continuously developed ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 15-2004, Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems, and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2007, Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants as new refrigerants that are better for the ozone have been developed. In particular, ASHRAE has traced the development of HCFCs to replace CFCs, and then HFCs to replace HCFCs as technology improved. Now, there is a movement to use "natural" refrigerants such as carbon dioxide, ammonia, and hydrocarbons such as propane and butane.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

06.09.2007 Carrier to Celebrate Achievements in Ozone Protection.

Tomorrow, on the 105th anniversary of the invention of modern air conditioning by company founder Willis Carrier, Carrier Corp. will celebrate product and technology achievements that are helping to restore the Earth's protective ozone layer. Carrier Corp. is a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Montreal Protocol, which globally phases out ozone depleting substances such as chlorofluorcarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) used in air-conditioning and refrigeration products.
For decades, Carrier has been an industry leader in environmental stewardship. In 1994, Carrier was the first company to phase-out CFCs in air-conditioning systems on a global basis ? two years ahead of requirements in the U.S. and 16 years ahead of mandates in developing countries. In 1996, Carrier was first to offer non-ozone depleting commercial and residential systems. Since then, Carrier has sold more than 2 million non-ozone depleting PuronR residential systems in North America.
For these outstanding environmental achievements, Carrier has been selected to receive the 2007 Best-of-the-Best Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

28.08.2007 Sharp Introduces New Humidifying Air Purifiers.

Sharp Corporation will introduce three new humidifying air purifiers that powerfully remove allergens such as airborne household dust, pollen and dust mite particles as well as lingering adsorbed odors using a combination of Twin Plasmacluster Ion Power based on dual Plasmacluster Ion generators, a first in a home-use unit, and a newly developed 20° Angled Outflow Duct.
Using a combination of Twin Plasmacluster Ion Power that dramatically increases the volume of Plasmacluster Ions generated, and a 20° Angled Outflow Duct that accelerates air circulation in the room for more efficient dust extraction, the KC-C150 quickly and powerfully removes house dust and pollen at twice the speed of the predecessor model. These models also quickly decompose and eliminate allergens such as dust mite particles. They also feature a powerful deodorizing function that eliminates even odors clinging to curtains and walls. Plus, a full-fledged humidifying function with the industry's highest humidifying capacity of 760 mL/hour (KC-C150), powerful enough for a living room up to 35 m2, creates a pleasant environment that helps keep house dust and pollen from drifting in the air. And, the adoption of a proprietary rotating filter disc humidifying mechanism doubles the service life of the humidifier filter.
Dust mites and house dust are said to be the cause of 80% of allergy-related illnesses. In this light, Sharp is offering this new series of air purifiers to provide a clean indoor environment all year round thanks to full-fledged humidification, new angled outflow duct, and its proprietary Plasmacluster Ion technology, now more effective than ever.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

21.08.2007 Delegation From Daikin Visits CRAA.

Recently, a delegation of seven personnel from Daikin Industries, Ltd. of Japan visited CRAA and held talks with CRAA representatives on such issues as refrigerant substitutes.
Daikin delegates included Mr. Hideo Nomura, Senior Manager of the Strategic Marketing Department, Global Operations Division; Mr. Hiroyuki Hasegawa of the same department; Mr. Mark V. Stanga, Consultant of the Global Operations Division; Mr. Osami Kataoka, Senior Manager of Regulations & Intellectual Property Group, the Planning Department, Air Conditioning Manufacturing Division; Mr. Shi Jianchun, Deputy General Manager and Ms. Luo Junhua, Assistant Manager of the Quality Control Department, Daikin Air-Conditioning (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.; and, Mr. Liu Xun of McQuay Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (Wuhan) Co., Ltd.
Six CRAA personnel, including Executive Vice Chairman Mr. Yang Yanru, Secretary General Mr. Zhang Zhaohui, and department directors, attended the talks.
The talks started with a welcome address from Mr. Yang Yanru, who expressed his welcome to the Daikin delegation and extended his gratitude for all their support to CRAA. Then, Mr. Zhang Zhaohui introduced to them the organization as well as the main responsibilities of the Association, and explained the current situation of the refrigeration and air-conditioning industry in 2006 in China.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

10.08.2007 ASHRAE, DOE Partner to Improve Energy Efficiency.

Under a new agreement, ASHRAE and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will work to increase building energy efficiency standards for the year 2010 by 30 percent over 2004 standards.
A new memorandum of understanding commits ASHRAE and DOE to improving the efficient use of energy and the viable and widespread use of renewable energy sources and to minimizing the impact of energy use on the environment.
"DOE and ASHRAE have been working together in advancing energy conservation technology since the initial energy crisis of the 1970s," Kent Peterson, ASHRAE president, said. "This new initiative provides an opportunity for ASHRAE and DOE to expand our collective energy conservation efforts, our energy conservation education initiatives and strategic research program focus in leading our country and the world toward a sustainable energy future. The agreement further enhances ASHRAE's ability and resolve of being a global engineering engine of sustainability."
Under the agreement, ASHRAE and the DOE are committed to working together toward the following goals:
・ Promoting and supporting the continuing development of ASHRAE standards related to energy efficiency, indoor air quality and sustainability
・ Supporting implementation of ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, through training programs.
・ Supporting the development of guidance for exceeding the minimum efficiencies set by Standard 90.1, and new performance metrics and protocols for building energy efficiency and environmental impact.
・ Cooperating in and supporting research into clean and renewable sources of energy, energy efficiency in buildings and equipment, and environmental impact of energy and material use.
・ Cooperating in promotion of ANSI/ASHRAE standards adoption in International Organization of Standardization (ISO) standards.
・ Working within the building community and related professions to encourage the interoperability of building related software and integrated solutions to increase energy efficiency, health, and productivity in new and existing buildings.
・ Ensuring sufficient numbers of qualified building design professionals by promoting and encouraging the study of mathematics and science to pre-college students, the study of building design within college curricula, and the pursuit of continuing education by practicing design professionals.
・ Providing and supporting technology transfer to building owners and management about the interrelationships between mechanical systems and building operating costs, noting energy, workplace performance, client satisfaction, and public safety.
・ Monitoring the operational, energy and environmental impacts of new counter-terrorism design features, and promoting minimization of those impacts.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

03.08.2007 Sanyo Takes an Important First Step to Profitability .

Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. announces its consolidated results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2007 (April 1, 2007 to June 30, 2007).
The first quarter of fiscal year 2007 ended with consolidated net sales of 496,416 million yen.
While there were concerns about the domestic market for mobile handsets and white goods as domestic sales decreased 22.7% over the same period last year, Sanyo also saw an increase in overseas sales of 18.6%, resulting in a total of 307,028 million yen, over the same period last year. This was due to the favorable increase in sales in the consumer group for digital cameras and LCD projectors, the commercial group for showcases and packaged air conditioners, and the component group for rechargeable batteries and optical pick-ups.
The income before taxes and minority interests for the first quarter was 5,444 million yen, with a total net profit of 2,572 million yen in the positive. Originally, due to the sudden rises in the prices of raw materials, the total operating profit was 732 million yen. However, together with other income such as the sale of Sanyo Electric Credit Co., Ltd. and the improvement of equity in earnings of affiliates and unconsolidated subsidiaries, the quarter ended with a positive net profit.
Kouichi Maeda, a Sanyo Executive Vice President, commented, "The main goal for this fiscal year in Sanyo is returning to profitability in both the consolidated and non-consolidated earnings. Results in the first quarter are in line with our original estimations, and we have taken an important first step towards reaching our goal. Hereafter we will progressively manage respective business management tasks, and make efforts as a whole for the accomplishment of our business goal."
Sanyo is currently formulating a 'Master Plan' aimed at recreating its business portfolio with a business strategy targeting sustainable and continued growth and profitability. During the current fiscal year, based on the 'Master Plan' set to be created, a 'New 3-year Mid-term Management Plan' (from FY 2008 ~ FY 2010) will be created to ensure the SANYO Group's future growth.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

27.07.2007 Daikin Secures Mega VRV III Order in India.

Daikin Airconditioning India Private Ltd. (DAIPL) has won the highly prestigious contract to supply air-conditioning systems for the EON Free Zone in Pune, India. VRV III was at the heart of DAIPL's proposal, and the system will certainly be highly visible in the new development, with around 900 outdoor and 6,600 indoor units being installed. The project also features Intelligent Manager III as its control system.
Pune is one of the cities riding high on India's current wave of economic growth. It is blessed with a pleasant climate, top educational institutions and a rich culture. Pune is also home to an increasing number of IT operations, which has made the city an attractive destination for foreign software companies. This combination of factors has also inspired local company Panchshil to launch the EON Free Zone project.
With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and support services, the EON Free Zone is intended to kick start breakthroughs in IT and IT-enabled businesses. Sprawling over approximately 18 hectares, the complex includes 4 clusters of commercial buildings, each shaped like a four-leaf clover, as well as a residential area. This unique architecture uses a minimalist design that blends with natural features and complements the topography of the site.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

12.07.2007 Japanese AC Trade Shifts into Top Gear.

With the steady rise in temperature, the room air conditioner (RAC) business is heating up. This year, however, June was visited by many hot days, and the rainy season continued from the end of June into July. Domestic RAC shipments from January to May remained level with or were lower by about several % percent lower than the previouslast year, thus falling into aan unfavorable situation unfavorable toby all appearancesaccounts. Domestic RAC shipments in May numbered 782,072 units, down 1.1%. Year-to-date (Jan. - May) shipments remained attotaled 2,758,218 units, down 4.7% from the same period last year.
A long-range weather forecast foretells that this year Japan will be visited by a hotter summer than in usual years. If a hot summer comes as predicted, the yearly total shipments may reach exceed the 7,400,000 units predicted by the industry plus by some 100,000 units. According to an industry source, in the domestic RAC market to date, sales of high-end models and large capacity models have increased favorably, topping 5 - 6% over the previouslast year in terms of value. This was reportedly attributable to the fact that flagship models and those units larger than 4.0 kW sold well.
Large home electric appliance retailers in different parts of Japan are increasingly eager in RAC sales initiatives. The top retailer Yamada Denki has proceeded with its campaign named called the 'Air Conditioner Festival' from the beginning of June, holding the 'Home Electric Appliance Fair & Big Flea Market with Clearance Sale' on June 30 and July 1 in Yokohama by calling 30 stores in Kanagawa Pref. together. "Our AC sales are growing in number, and those with and units with high energy efficiency and an automatic cleaning functions are particularly selling well. Since our customers are increasingly aware of the importance of energy savings, we recommend them to choose highly energy-efficient models", said a store's salesman.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

02.07.2007 Honeywell Seizes Equipment Charged with Infringing R410A.

Honeywell announced recently that customs authorities in Taranto, Italy, successfully seized 21 containers of air conditioning equipment charged with refrigerant R410A that violated Honeywell's European Patent No. EP 0 533 673.
The action, taken on May 23, was done on the basis of an application for border seizure made by and granted to Honeywell. It is part of the company's ongoing effort to halt the trade of patent-infringing goods.
The seizure was the result of a coordinated worldwide effort between Italian customs agents and licensed suppliers of R410A. The infringing refrigerant was found in equipment shipped to Italy by a Chinese equipment manufacturer.
Honeywell invented and patented R410A and its use in air conditioning and other applications. Specifically, R410A refrigerant is a blend of difluoromethane (R32) and pentafluoroethane (R125). This technological innovation has since become the globally accepted standard for use in new residential and light-commercial air conditioning systems. Honeywell has created a certified vendor program to encourage Chinese air-conditioner manufacturers to use R410A refrigerant purchased from licensed suppliers.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

25.06.2007 Sanyo Develops HIT Solar Cells with Conversion Efficiency of 22% .

Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. announced recently that it has broken its own record for the world's highest energy conversion efficiency in practical size (100 cm2 or more) crystalline silicon-type solar cells, achieving a efficiency of 22% (until now 21.8%) at a research level for its proprietary HIT solar photovoltaic cells.
Background Sanyo is pushing forward with the expansion of its solar business, based on its Brand Vision 'Think GAIA', and aims to realize a clean energy society. SANYO announced the "Next Generation Program for HIT Solar Cells" last year, with its goal of becoming a top-level business in the global solar industry by FY2010.
The increase in the solar cell conversion efficiency this time is accompanied by significant advances in lowering the production cost of the photovoltaic system and the reduction in the use of raw materials such as silicon.
This achievement by Sanyo represents the first time that a photovoltaic manufacturer has broken through the 22% mark in conversion efficiency at the research-level for practical-sized solar cells, and further cements the leadership of Sanyo's HIT solar cell which is renowned for its high conversion efficiency.
For now on Sanyo will continue to advance its efforts into applying this research-level achievement into mass production, and promote further research into energy efficiency, as well as reductions in cost and materials.

source: http://www.jarn.co.jp/

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Thanks to colleague for the material