TAQA celebrates grand opening of its U.S. headquarters

TAQA executives, as well as representatives from the state, spoke to the importance of alternative energy and the company's future research and development initiatives. Guests were given the opportunity to tour the unique, environmentally friendly space, which has brought 40 new jobs to the area.

"It is our goal to provide clean energy in a cost-effective, environmentally sound manner," said Peter Barker-Homek, Chief Executive Officer of TAQA.

"Our new office demonstrates that commitment by incorporating key elements into the design that utilize natural resources to reduce cost and save energy."

The decision to locate the new office came after TAQA's acquisition of CMS Generation, a subsidiary of CMS Energy, headquartered in Jackson, Mich. The office's proximity to the University of Michigan - which provides TAQA access to research, talent and technology - was also a key factor in its location, according to Barker-Homek, who expressed the company's desire to be part of the academic community.

The Ann Arbor office, which is designed to accommodate flexibility and allow for 24-hour operation, houses the company's business / technical support, accounting, tax, legal and risk management group. The office also focuses on managing the company's international portfolio of independent power and water production businesses and new power development. TAQA hopes to double the number of employees in the next few years as business develops.

Surrounded by pastures, cultivated farm land and wildlife habitat, the modern office in the Domino's Farms complex features a diverse blend of materials, including cork, leather, marble, granite, natural wood, stone and an extensive amount of glass to take advantage of the sun's natural source of light and heat. A computerized lighting system automatically adjusts the lights based on the amount of ambient light in the office and can be programmed to turn on and off to save energy.

TAQA is committed to enhancing the environment through its global enterprise. For example, the company offers employees a cash incentive of $2,500 to $5,000 if they choose to buy or lease a hybrid vehicle. The company has also established "Green Teams" at all of its business locations to help create greener working environments by recycling, using low-energy light bulbs, bicycling or carpooling and other similar activities. Incentives and prizes are awarded to the location that makes the most significant contributions to help improve the environment.