Senator Charles E. Schumer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 26, 2007

Schumer, McNulty Announce Over $1.9 Million Coming To General Electric Company In Niskayuna

Federal Funds will be Used to Design and Produce Extremely Water-Repellent Surfaces for Use in Harsh Industrial Environments

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer and Congressman Michael R. McNulty today announced that $1,905,000 has been awarded to General Electric Company in Niskayuna by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology under their Advanced Technology Program. The funds will be used to develop and produce extremely water-repellent surfaces for use in harsh industrial environments.

“This is outstanding news for General Electric and Niskayuna,” said Schumer. “These federal funds will support a truly remarkable form of technology that has the potential to revolutionize our electricity capacity and substantially knock down carbon dioxide emissions. I will continue to fight hard for these critical funds to support such cutting-edge research and design.”

"GE is making significant strides in their nanotechnology research by concentrating on making energy sources cleaner and more environmentally friendly, while at the same time saving money for consumers. At a time when high energy costs are an enormous burden for many Americans, I am grateful that GE is taking the initiative to make the most of our energy resources," said Rep. Michael R. McNulty.

General Electric will use these federal funds to develop a robust nanotech manufacturing infrastructure. This will be used for the design processing of nanomaterials to produce extremely water-repellent surfaces for use in harsh industrial environments. It is estimated that by 2030, full implementation of this kind of technology could save as much as $2.5 billion a year in electric costs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 37 million tons a year. The benefits of this technology will be validated for steam turbines, power plant condensers and desalination condensers.

The Advanced Technology Program (ATP) bridges the gap between the research lab and the market place, stimulating prosperity through innovation. Through partnerships with the private sector, ATP's early stage investment is accelerating the development of innovative technologies that promise significant commercial payoffs and widespread benefits for the nation. As part of the highly regarded National Institute of Standards and Technology, the ATP is changing the way industry approaches R&D, providing a mechanism for industry to extend its technological reach and push out the envelope of what can be attempted.

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