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Zero Energy Systems (ZES) of Coralville has received state funding to assist with the proposed construction of a 45,000 square foot manufacturing facility in the Wescor development in Coralville. The facility will be the first of its kind in the U.S. and will take approximately 12-months to complete. Facility design and planning will begin in the fourth quarter of this year and construction will start in March 2012.
ZES is a start-up company that will provide computer-automated production of a proprietary insulated concrete wall system for residential and commercial use. The product will deliver the necessary building envelope to attain net-zero energy use results while providing disaster resistance and longevity.
“This has been a lengthy process and we certainly appreciate all of the help provided by the state, the city of Coralville and the Iowa City Area Development Group,” said Scott Long, ZES CEO. “This is an area dedicated to innovation and helping entrepreneurs, and we are excited to start operations in Coralville.”
The project represents $7.5 million in capital investment and will create 25 jobs over the next three years, with a projected payroll threshold of 130% of Johnson County.
“We appreciate the opportunity to partner with ZES and welcome another growing company to Coralville,” said Kelly Hayworth, Coralville City Administrator. “This project creates high quality jobs and delivers significant economic benefit to our community and the region.”
ZES will incorporate specialized production equipment from Weinsburg, Germany, to enable the high-tech, computer-automated production of their wall system product. The company’s primary focus will be on custom residential, light commercial and institutional projects that specify energy, longevity and disaster resistance standards.
"Resource efficiency is of universal interest across the United States, however we do see demand driven in markets where excessive heat, fire storms, flooding or high winds are of concern,” added Long. "ZES will initially ship out of Iowa from coast to coast until we establish consistent enough volumes to warrant the opening of additional production facilities."
ICAD Group assisted ZES with the funding application process and facility siting. “We credit Scott and his partner for their willingness to see this project come to fruition,” said Joe Raso, ICAD Group President. “ICAD Group has been working with ZES for the past three years and we look forward to helping this company grow.”
ICAD Group is currently working with ZES and Kirkwood Community College’s industrial new jobs training program and will provide workforce development services once the company announces its full time positions.
The project is contingent upon approval of local financing in 4th quarter of 2011.
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jraso[.]iowacityarea.com 
