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The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress assists with roof system research

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: BENNETT JUDSON
JULY 2007	(800) 323-9545, ext. 7513
	bjudson@roofingindustryalliance.net
THE ROOFING INDUSTRY ALLIANCE FOR PROGRESS ASSISTS WITH ROOF SYSTEM RESEARCH Rosemont, Ill.—The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress, a separate but related educational and research organization of NRCA, has partnered with Penn State University, University Park, Pa., and will provide $100,000 to contribute to green roofing and solar energy research. Penn State University currently is conducting research to measure R-values of green roof systems; is involved with a Solar Decathlon project that incorporates solar roof technology; has developed "4-D" project management software; and has conducted a photovoltaics study for the electrical contracting industry and nanotechnology involving photovoltaic integration. At an Alliance meeting in Phoenix, David Riley, associate professor for the department of architectural engineering and executive director of the Center for Sustainability at Penn State University, explained three initial objectives for the partnership: Pursue the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon Competition to explore how building-integrated photovoltaic systems affect the roofing industry and promote the roofing industry's role regarding solar energy systems to increase visibility of the roofing industry among college graduates. During the Solar Decathlon, teams from colleges and universities all over the world strive to design, build and operate the most attractive and energy-efficient solar-powered home. Contribute to the advancement of green roof research specifically regarding energy performance by sponsoring state-of-the-art research and developing educational materials that promote green roof system awareness. Alliance funding would pay for the testing of green roof system specimens at Penn State University. Investigate the potential effects and respective market strategies for the roofing industry as interest in building-integrated photovoltaic technologies grows. This will lead to increased deployment of solar electric systems on roof surfaces, which will present challenges and opportunities for the roofing industry. For more information about the Alliance's partnership with Penn State or to join the Alliance, contact Bennett Judson, the Alliance's executive director, at (800) 323-9545, ext. 7513 or bjudson@roofingindustryalliance.net. ###