New Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association Seeks to Make Michigan a Global Leader

Corporations, universities and state agencies connect to promote Michigan-based environmentally friendly lighting initiatives
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DETROIT, Mich., Oct. 15, 2009 – The Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association (MSSLA) today announced the official launch of its organization. MSSLA was established in a collaborative effort with Michigan-based corporations, universities, and state agencies engaged in manufacturing, research or development of solid-state lighting products.

As environmental consciousness and green building continue to grow in all industries, the MSSLA mission is to help ensure that Michigan becomes a global leader in solid-state lighting manufacturing, research, and development through knowledge sharing, education and public policy advocacy.

Founding members of the MSSLA include DTE Energy, ilumisys, LEDOS, Lumatek International, Midwest Circuits, Relume Technologies, Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth, University of Michigan, Wayne State University and XUS LED Lighting.

Solid-state lighting refers to the use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as sources of illumination, rather than electrical filaments, plasma or gas. Benefits of solid-state lighting include an environmentally friendly design that is mercury free, contains reusable parts and provides a long-term energy-efficient source of light.

By leveraging the intellectual properties and technical expertise of its membership, the MSSLA intends to promote environmentally friendly lighting options in the state and to advance the companies it represents.

“Establishing this association has been important to ilumisys because we believe that companies throughout Michigan have the expertise and ability to advance the solid-state lighting industry,” said Dave Simon, president of ilumisys and the MSSLA. “As the industry progresses, we want to ensure Michigan businesses are leading the way.”

This is a great example of partnership in action,” said Stanley “Skip” Pruss, Director, Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth. “This collaboration will enhance Michigan’s ability to achieve its energy efficiency goals and support our energy needs and priorities.”

“Solid-state lighting is a critical technology of the future, and Michigan has an opportunity to emerge as the leader in producing the next level of energy-efficient lighting,” said Gerald Polk, manager of energy partnership & services for DTE Energy and treasurer of the MSSLA. “This association will allow Michigan companies to work together and enhance the development and manufacturing of solid-state lighting.”

About the Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association (MSSLA)

Established in 2009 and based in Detroit, Michigan, the Michigan Solid-State Lighting Association is dedicated to ensuring that Michigan is a global leader in solid-state lighting manufacturing, research and development through knowledge sharing, education and public policy advocacy.  By leveraging the intellectual properties and technical expertise of its members, the MSSLA intends to promote environmentally friendly lighting options in the state and to advance the companies it represents. Founding members include: