A passion for green technology and alternative energy led entrepreneur Jamie Smith to set up his own company to do his bit for the environment and help to reduce Bermuda's carbon footprint.

The idea for Solar Bermuda Ltd. was conceived in 2007 and it was incorporated a year later with the aim of providing state-of-the-art alternative energy systems and offering a range of products from solar thermal water heaters for cutting costs to comprehensive solar photovoltaic panelling and wind turbines to generate energy for residential appliances.

Mr. Smith, who also runs his own construction firm OWC Contracting, has used his background and such skills as masonry, carpentry and plumbing to integrate renewable energy systems into new developments and products.

Solar Bermuda, which is based on Spurling Hill, Hamilton, has acquired a number of certificates from Solar Energy International and is working towards full accreditation to ensure that all of its systems meet international standards.

Andrew Davis, project manager at Solar Bermuda, who was previously a math teacher, came on board with Mr. Smith one-and-half years ago and has been busy getting trained and certified, and, supervising his own team, has designed and installed numerous systems, including 20 hot water systems.

The company, which has resources of up to 18 knowledgeable and experienced staff, covers everything from free home inspections and quotes to planning applications and product orders, as well as full installation and servicing of systems. It offers a variety of custom-made products for residential and commercial properties, in addition to swimming pool and battery back-up (supplying power in the event of an outage) systems. One of its most recent products, the Silmline Solar Thermal Collector Hot Water System, which was designed by Solar Bermuda Ltd. in partnership with vendor and overseas partner Heliodyne, costs between $7,500 and $11,000 depending on the size of the unit, with a 10-year warranty.

Greenview Villas is the company's flagship sustainable housing development and Bermuda's first solar powered community, based off Khyber Pass in Warwick and providing residents with solar energy to power lighting, running and hot water, and cooking appliances.

Solar Bermuda, which is a 100-percent Bermudian company, also offers educational services to its clients and apprenticeships for Bermudians looking to get into the industry.

Due to its good working relationship with Government, it has been able to pass on several advantages to the customer, including rebates from the Ministry of Energy for homeowners interested in installing a solar water heater and concessions of up to $5,000 for solar photovoltaic systems.

In the future the company plans to expand and develop its product range with the focus on selling an investment and a greener way of life.

For more information on Solar Bermuda contact 297-6527, email info@solarbermuda.com or visit www.solarbermuda.com