Zank You Verymuch

Paul Chesser, Climate Strategies Watch

Gregg A. Zank, Dow Corning's vice president and chief technology officer, was so excited in December to be appointed to the Michigan Climate Action Council that he issued a press release:

“The Michigan Climate Action Council is a diverse group committed to examining and understanding climate change issues and how they affect the state of Michigan,” said Zank. “We know there’s no simple answer to this challenge we face, and I’m excited to work with this esteemed group to see what we can learn.”

So excited…

“Exploring climate change and its effects is not only an environmentally responsible action to take, but it also makes solid business sense,” said Zank. “For example, Dow Corning provides products that are critical to the solar industry. By investing in solar we’re able to have a significant environmental impact while providing jobs and economic value for Dow Corning and the community.”

And of course, his company is very excited as well:

The potential of solar energy is almost limitless. A completely renewable energy source that is not dependent on any fuel for its production. As the photovoltaic industry (PV) assumes an increasingly important role in meeting the world's energy needs, Dow Corning is making a difference by helping PV producers grow and succeed…

We are investing to continue to make a difference by expanding our portfolio of total solution packages for cell manufacturing, module assembly and installation. Solution packages include high-performance encapsulants, adhesives, coatings, potting agents and sealants as well as next-generation solar grade silicon. As the largest materials supplier to the PV industry, we service the entire PV value chain from sand to sun…"

What? Silicon tetrachloride, you ask? Did you hear us say "completely renewable energy source?"

Now about those subsidies….