By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-987653.mp3
Poughkeepsie, NY – An economic boost for Dutchess County - Hudson Valley Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports a Chinese Solar Technology Company has purchased the former IBM Campus in East Fishkill.
Officials say Linuo Solar Group plans to invest $100 million and hire up to 1,000 people as it establishes itself on the old IBM campus.
Representatives from Linuo joined The Solar Energy Consortium (TSEC) and the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation to make the announcement was made this morning at the Marist College Boat House in Poughkeepsie.
East Fishkill town Supervisor John Hickman says business drives the economy, which hasn't been doing so well, and looks forward to working with the Chinese company. Vincent Cozzolino is President and CEO of The Solar Energy Consortium, based in Kingston. He points out that Global High Tech Manufacturing is a logical fit for the region, which has benefited already in paving the way for Linou to set up shop.
Linou is a huge company in China. Dr. Bevan Zhang is the director of international development for Linuo Group. He says that of the $100 million Linuo plans to invest in the Hudson Valley, about $40 million will go toward production equipment, $30 million on building renovations and $20 million toward working capital.