MILWAUKEE – Johnson Controls, a global leader in delivering solutions that increase energy efficiency in buildings, introduces a solar cooling solution to reduce energy costs for large buildings across North America by combining its high-efficiency chillers with hybrid solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) technologies.

“Our customers deserve heating and cooling solutions that push the limits of technology design to reduce utility costs and maximize investments,” said Joe Brillhart, director of global industrial chillers at Johnson Controls. “When you consider warm environments like Arizona or California, this solution is the financially responsible way to capture energy from the sun while leveraging one of the best absorption chillers on the market.”

The solution uses the YORK Absorption Chiller and features PV waste-heat recovery technology, converting 75 percent of the sun’s rays into energy, compared to 15 percent efficiency in a traditional PV system. The solution qualifies for state and utility incentives across North America, especially in warm climates where cooling demand places a significant stress on the power grid, driving up electricity rates.

The solar-cooling solution integrates into any building controls system, including the Metasys® building management system. It generates hot water for the absorption chiller to air condition buildings and electricity to reduce demand from the power grid. The solution features a solar-collector system developed by Cogenra, a leading developer of distributed solar cogeneration technology, based in Mountain View, Calif.

“Solar cooling offers a compelling value proposition for building owners by reducing both peak time energy costs and demand charges,” said Gilad Almogy, chief executive officier and founder of Cogenra.

Johnson Controls has changed the way buildings are designed, built and operated, making them more efficient and sustainable for more than 125 years since its founder invented the electric thermostat.  In North America, Johnson Controls is the largest Energy Services Company (ESCO) with $7.5 billion in guaranteed savings.

About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2012, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #5 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.