Kyocera Corporation(President: Tetsuo Kuba) announced that an exceptional solar project utilizing the company's solar modules has been awarded the 2012 Swiss Solar Prize: The wheelchairs of ten inhabitants at the Quimby Huus, an institution for the physically disabled in St. Gallen, Switzerland, are driven exclusively using solar power. A 3kW solar power generating system using Kyocera solar modules is installed on the roof of the Quimby Huus, providing 3,000kWh of clean electricity each year -- enough to power the residents' electric wheelchairs all year round without creating any CO2 emissions. This sustainable project is led by environmentally-committed Sandro Buff (30), who has been using a wheelchair himself for 16 years.

Electric wheelchairs typically would be powered by the main utility grid and usually require two 12 volt rechargeable batteries. The idea behind the Quimby Huus solar project was to derive this power entirely from renewable energy. In order to realize this idea, a solar power generating system needed to be installed on the roof to free inhabitants from dependence on the main grid and secure an environmentally-friendly form of energy. The leader of the project, Sandro Buff, quickly gained the support of the Quimby Huus manager.

Mr. Buff conceived this project together with energy advisor Peter Grau and installed a 3kW solar power generating system including 12 Kyocera solar modules on the roof of the home. The project was fully funded by sponsors, and the environmentally-friendly power generated from this installation enables the residents to travel approximately 1,500km per year in their wheelchairs, fuelled solely by the sun's energy. Moreover, an energy meter was installed to give inhabitants a clear picture of how much energy has been consumed, which increases their awareness of energy consumption and offers additional potential for conservation. The project also aims to serve as a motivation for others to implement their own initiatives.

Sandro Buff was awarded the 2012 Swiss Solar Prize for his exceptional commitment. He is convinced that everyone must “play their part in reversing energy trends,” and says, “together we can take on the challenge.” Kyocera is honored that its solar modules are helping to increase the energy independence of residents at the Quimby Huus and hopes to further contribute to the development of renewable energy.