WRAL Tech Wire

Duke Energy wins $22 million federal grant for wind energy storage project

Charlotte-based utility plans to match Department of Energy funds to design, build a battery storage facility in Texas.

State gives green-tech grants to 18 small firms

The Office of the Governor estimates that the grants will create more than 200 jobs.

Perdue names mix of private, public sector execs to N.C. Energy Policy Council

Cree to build huge manufacturing facility in China

Durham-based company buys 592,000-square-foot building to house its first chip manufacturing facility outside North America.

Walmart to put Cree LEDs in 650 stores

The Durham-based light-maker says its products will go into produce and electronics departments.

Early Halloween treat: Cree execs cash out millions in shares

With its stock reaching a 52-week high of $46.25, chairman and chief executive officer Chuck Swoboda sells more than 400,000 shares, according to SEC data. CFO and a co-founder also cash in as the Durham-based firm capitalizes on demand for light emitting diodes.

Progress, Duke, Southern Company land nearly $470M in smart grid funds

Three utility firms target North Carolina for portions of upgrade projects, will invest nearly $1.6 billion of their own funds. Nationwide, Obama administration awards $3.4 billion in grants across 49 states.

Progress Energy smart grid project areas in Carolinas

RTI lands $3.1M federal contract to develop an ‘oil’ based on biomass

‘We are running pretty flat out right now,’ says Cree CEO

In his own words: During conference call to discuss Cree’s quarterly earnings and market demand for its chips as well as LEDs, Chuck Swoboda talks about expanding capacity and adding employees to meet growing demand.

Duke Energy steps up solar power efforts, partnering with Chinese firm

SAS to light up another solar power plant at Cary campus

Project will provide electricity for more than 200 homes. Progress Energy will purchase the power.

Having raised $400M, Cree to announce more 'green jobs'

Capitalizing on growing global demand for LED lighting, the Durham firm schedules press conference after markets close Thursday. Cree shares have tripled in value over last year despite the recession, and the company recently raised more than $400 million, $150 million of which is set aside for expansion.

Cree adding more than 500 jobs over three years

Manufacturer Cree announced Thursday that it will add 500 "green" jobs at its Durham headquarters over the course of three years. As many as 275 of those positions will be in place by the end of the calendar year, CEO Chuck Swoboda said.

Duke Energy, UNC-CH partner for wind turbines in Pamlico Sound

Pilot project will be paid for by Duke. UNC scientists will use towers to study potential of wind energy.

Power surge for cleantech? Nope, says London research firm

Total investment in clean technology worldwide declines 9 percent in third quarter. Firm’s CEO warns that investments are threatened by ‘undue reliance on stimulus funds, development banks and state-backed capital providers of various sorts.’