Thailand Solar Park to Use Astronergy Thin Film PV Technology

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Astronergy, a subsidiary of the Chint Group, was selected to provide its thin film amorphous microcrystalline silicon technology (a-Si/uc-Si) PV panels for a 1.65MWp solar park in Thailand.

Astronergy has seen an increase in demand for its thin film panels due to its low voltage, high efficiency (approaching 10%), and competitive pricing. The ability to offer MunichRe power performance insurance and being backed by Black & Veatch through its 3rd Party IE Report are just a couple of key differentiators over the competition and has led to further validation of the company's bankability for large scale projects.

"Thin film cells require less energy to manufacture and can be fabricated by a variety of processes. These key features provide a promising path for more affordable solar cells that can compete with the efficiency of the more common silicon-based solar cell, given the right climate region," commented Dr. Liyou Yang, Astronergy CEO.

Commissioning of the solar park took place on October 28th, 2011. In addition to thin film PV panels, additional Chint Subsidiary components were used including inverters and BOS system components; adding to the overall system reliability and lower system implementation costs. The Chint Group and its subsidiaries will continue to work jointly with developers on future renewable energy projects.

Demand Management Installation Services Joins Forces with SunRun to Provide Homeowners with Low-Cost Solar

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Demand Management Installation Services (DMIS) today announced a new partnership with SunRun, the nation's leading residential solar company. Under the new agreement, DMIS will help ideal candidates for zero or low-cost solar make the switch to solar power service from SunRun.

DMIS and its affiliates conduct 25,000 in-home energy consultations annually, working with homeowners who want to save money through efficient energy use. This new partnership with SunRun adds one more significant option to DMIS’ offerings: SunRun owns and maintains solar panels on a homeowner’s roof and the homeowner makes low monthly payments for the power. With SunRun, homeowners avoid the high upfront costs of switching to solar and save tens of thousands of dollars over time on electricity bills.

While homeowners save on what they pay for their energy, traditional utility providers also benefit from reduced demand on the electric grid. DMIS will offer SunRun services throughout the Bay Area, from Napa to San Jose and San Francisco to Alameda County.

“DMIS specializes in helping homeowners identify ways to save money on their energy. But in particular we look for measures that have either a fast payback on the initial investment or a high ROI,” said Jason Hanleybrown, CEO of DMIS. “This partnership with SunRun will enable our customers to reap the benefits of solar without laying out tens of thousands of dollars to do so. And traditional utilities also benefit from reductions in peak kilowatt-hour usage.”

In addition to helping consumers make their homes more energy efficient, DMIS works with utilities to design and implement energy- and water-savings programs, bringing its years of experience in the home to create efficiency programs that deliver large scale, cost-effective therm and kWh hour savings. DMIS provides in-home energy use analysis as well as installation services, full-service customer relations, and program design that prioritizes high participation rates. DMIS helps support utility programs by identifying customers that are appropriate for specific energy savings measures from within its pool of existing customers.

SunRun pioneered third-party ownership of residential solar systems in 2007. Its partner network serves more than 15,000 customers in nine states and employs more than 3,000 workers. The company installs more than $1 million in solar systems every day.

“We work with trusted partners to help homeowners throughout the country take advantage of our affordable, easy, and smart approach to going solar,” said SunRun President and Co-founder Lynn Jurich. “We want to be one of the largest providers of energy for American homes, and DMIS will help us reach more homeowners in the Bay Area who can benefit financially from solar while helping the planet.”

SolarWorld Solar Panels Ready to Power Center Modeling World Advance in Sustainable Building

HILLSBORO, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--High-performance solar panels from SolarWorld, the largest U.S. solar manufacturer for more than 35 years, will provide electricity for the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden’s Center for Sustainable Landscapes. The project, rising in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park, will drive ingenuity in sustainable architecture and engineering to new heights of achievement.
   
SolarWorld authorized installer Energy Independent Solutions has completed installation of 125 kilowatts worth of 250-watt Sunmodule™ solar panels – three-quarters on the roof, a quarter on the ground – to power the new, three-story educational, research and administrative center (http://www.phippscsl.org/) on the 118-year-old Phipps campus. Combined with energy efficiencies, solar hot water, natural light capture, and geothermal heating and cooling, the solar electric power will help free the center from reliance on off-site energy.

Also independent from off-site water, the 24,350-square-foot Phipps center on a 2.65-acre park site will be the world’s first project built to simultaneously meet or exceed the three most prestigious standards of sustainable construction: the International Living Future Institute’s Living Building Challenge; the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest level of certification, LEED® Platinum; and four-star certification of the SITES™ landscape rating system, also called the Sustainable Sites Initiative.

“This new feat of green building will stand as a model to prove we possess the know-how to construct buildings that do not drain the planet’s energy resources,” said Kevin Kilkelly, president of SolarWorld Americas. “Solar power provides a perpetual, clean source of power on the site, exactly where energy demand will rise. Solar technologies, energy efficiencies and engineering innovations work together to show how we can better use the resources already abundantly available at this site and in much of the rest of the world.”

“The time for such a building has finally come, as has the time for solar power,” Kilkelly said.

Furthering the project’s sustainability, the solar installation has relied on domestic technology, equipment and labor. SolarWorld employs more than 1,100 Americans in manufacturing and selling the mono- and polycrystalline silicon solar panels in California and Oregon. Energy Independent Solutions, based in McKees Rocks, Penn., provided installation expertise and labor. Mounting systems came from Solar FlexRack of Youngstown, Ohio. The $24 million Phipps project is expected to be completed next spring.

“As the solar subcontractor, we were determined to use only the most reliable and domestically manufactured equipment – without compromise,” said Joe Morinville, owner of Energy Independent Systems. “We were determined to do our part the right way, tapping high-standard U.S. manufacturing, skill and labor.”

Sunlogics, Bolstered by the Energizer® brand, Committed to Advancing Next-Generation Solar Power for Businesses, Communities and Consumers

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. & ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sunlogics, a global leader in the design, development and operation of solar energy solutions, and Energizer®, a global leader in power and light, have launched an initiative to help accelerate adoption of renewable energy through solar power installations. The initiative includes electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, commercial rooftop and ground mount panels and a Home Solar Program designed and built by Sunlogics and carrying the Energizer brand.

“Consumer demand is growing across the planet for renewable energy solutions as evidenced by the powerful adoption of electric vehicles and a wide variety of energy-reducing consumer solutions,” said Sunlogics CEO Michael Matvieshen. “Sunlogics is committed to promoting the widespread adoption of solar energy solutions. The Energizer brand is in a class by itself when it comes to portable power. Our relationship with Energizer will establish immediate awareness in the commercial, home and mobile renewable energy space.”

“Energizer has been exploring solar for quite some time and already offers a variety of solar-powered consumer products. Linking the Energizer brand to these products reinforces our brand equity and supports our vision to expand our portfolio of solar powered products,” said Dan Stuckey, Vice President at Energizer.

The EV solar charging stations are designed to meet the charging needs of the growing EV market. The 10 Kilowatt and 20 Kilowatt solar charging stations will be installed in prominent high traffic areas in North America, and will “refuel” up to four or up to eight electric vehicles at a time, respectively. An eight space, 20 kilowatt station will produce up to 36,000 kW hours per year and has the capacity to generate electricity sufficient to charge approximately 2500 EV’s a year. These powerful stations are also highly efficient: unused power generated is fed back to the grid, insuring that all of the energy created is utilized. Sunlogics has been installing similar Chevrolet branded EV solar charging stations at dealerships across the United States.

Sunlogics and General Motors have partnered to construct solar installations at GM facilities. Sunlogics will be using its Energizer branded solar panels in solar project development throughout North America, Asia and Europe for large commercial and industrial installations.

The third area being pursued addresses the growing demand for solar solutions in the residential market. Sunlogics will soon offer an Energizer-branded Home Solar Program for residential markets that will help homeowners reduce their electricity and petroleum costs by using solar energy and electric vehicle charging products. The program also includes non-grid connected solar power for recreational vehicles, marine and remote dwellings. These will be distributed throughout the global Energizer network, as well as through networks that Sunlogics is developing with its other national and multi-national partners.

Constellation Energy Enters Ohio Residential Electric Market with 100 Percent Green Energy Offer to 2 Million Homeowners and Renters

BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Constellation Energy (NYSE:CEG), one of the nation’s leading competitive electricity suppliers, today announced it is offering 2 million Ohio residential electric customers the opportunity to use 100 percent green energy in their home.
 
The Constellation Energy offer gives homeowners and renters in the service territories of Cleveland Electric Illuminating, Ohio Edison and Toledo Edison the option to power their homes with clean, renewable energy sources at a fixed rate for 12 months.

“We recognize the growing demand for green energy in all sectors and are pleased to offer more than 2 million Ohioans price-protected, 100 percent green energy for their home,” said Kenny Matula, Constellation’s senior vice president for residential markets. The easy web signup for the green energy offer is available at home.constellation.com.

“As a market leader nationwide, we are the logical choice for Ohio residential electricity shoppers who want to choose clean energy to power their home,” said Matula.

Constellation Energy, an established energy supplier to thousands of Ohio businesses, recently began expanding its energy supply options to residential customers in Ohio. A September 2011 analysis of residential gas prices in the Akron Beacon Journal concluded Constellation offered “the best one-year fixed rate” to residential consumers.

The Ohio residential green electric choice offer is being made by Constellation NewEnergy Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Constellation Energy Group, Inc. Constellation Energy has about 900,000 residential customers in 15 states, including Ohio, Maryland, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Residential consumers who choose an alternative electricity supplier will continue to have their power delivered by their electric utility and will continue to contact their electric utility for billing and service inquiries, including queries about outages.

About Constellation Energy

Constellation Energy (www.constellation.com) is a leading competitive supplier of power, natural gas and energy products and services for homes and businesses across the continental United States. It owns a diversified fleet of generating units, totaling approximately 12,000 megawatts of generating capacity and is a leading advocate for clean, environmentally sustainable energy sources, such as solar power and nuclear energy. The company delivers electricity and natural gas through the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), its regulated utility in Central Maryland. A Fortune 500 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy had revenues of $14.3 billion in 2010.

Veeco Upcoming Investor Events

PLAINVIEW, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Veeco Instruments Inc. (Nasdaq: VECO) today announced that its management is scheduled to present at the following webcasted events:

Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 2:00PM ET at the CLSA AsiaUSA Forum 2011 at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 2:20 PM ET at Citi's 8th Annual Small & Mid Cap Conference at the Four Seasons in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at 11:00AM ET at the UBS Global Technology and Services Conference at the Grand Hyatt New York at Grand Central in New York, New York.

Thursday, December 8, 2011 at 3:30pm ET at Barclays Global Technology Conference at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California.

The presentations listed above will be broadcast live via webcast and available on the Veeco website at www.veeco.com. Presentation material will be posted to the Veeco website no later than 8:00AM ET the morning of the presentation.

Veeco is also scheduled to participate in the following non-webcasted investor events:

Thursday, November 3, 2011 at 8:45 AM ET at the Lazard Capital Markets’ 4th Annual LED Day at Sentry Center in New York, New York.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 11:45 AM ET at the Berenberg Bank European Conference at Pennyhill Park Hotel in Bagshot, Surrey, United Kingdom.

Upsolar Sponsors “Dancing Flowers” Art Installation in Zaragoza

ZARAGOZA, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Upsolar, a leading international provider of solar PV modules, is now sponsoring the “Dancing Flowers” exhibit at the Center for Sustainable Urban Valdespartera. For the next several years, the solar-powered kinetic installation will greet visitors to the Center.
 
Artist Alexandre Dang has created dozens of solar-powered kinetic art exhibits to raise awareness of issues including sustainability and child welfare. His installations have reached millions of viewers in high-traffic locations including the European Parliament and the Royal Palace of Brussels. Since Dang focuses on starting the renewable energy conversation at a young age, the artist designs lively projects that are also able to engage children.

“I’m looking to trigger public discussion on solar energy and promote widespread use of this renewable resource,” said Dang. “With two square centimeters of solar cells, you can move a flower. With many panels – each only one square meter – you can power a home. Imagine if all of our rooftops were covered in solar; you could move the world.”

Upsolar was drawn to Dang’s playful approach to raising energy awareness. The company believes that supporting visionaries like Dang is critical to communicating the value of solar energy and to growing its implementation.

“We support Alexandre’s effort to reach out in a way that truly anyone can understand,” commented Upsolar CEO Zhe Jiang, “The ongoing exhibit in Zaragoza is compelling for all on-lookers, and its value remains in its ability to prompt people into rethinking the potential of the limitless energy from the sun.”

About Upsolar

Upsolar is a leading international solar module developer and producer, offering the solar industry’s best quality / price ratio in the global PV market. With vertically integrated, diversified manufacturing platforms, as well as an R&D-supported quality control management system, Upsolar produces high quality, reliable solar modules backed by a world-class warranty, at competitive prices. Headquartered in Shanghai, Upsolar has offices throughout Asia, Europe and North America to support an international customer-base, providing on-site technical support, customer service and product development teams. For more information, visit www.upsolar.com.

China Sunergy Expands Market Share in Germany with a 23 MW Sale to SUNfarming

NANJING, China, Oct. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: CSUN) ("China Sunergy" or "The Company"), a specialized solar cell and module manufacturer, today announced that it agreed to supply 23 MW of solar modules to German solar distributor and project developer SUNfarming Group.

SUNfarming Group will use CSUN modules to design and mount customized PV systems for commercial and residential ground mount and rooftop projects, mostly in North and East area of Germany. Over 18 MW of the CSUN modules sold will be used in ground mount projects and others will be used in rooftop projects. CSUN will deliver the 23MW modules within the fourth quarter of 2011.

"China Sunergy's high quality solar panels, backed-up by thorough after-sales service and insured guarantees, enable to meet our needs and protect our investments." said Martin Tauschke, CEO of SUNfarming Group. He added: "China Sunergy is an extremely reliable supplier. We value this relationship and will seek more opportunities to use CSUN panels in future projects. "

Stephen Cai, CEO of China Sunergy, commented: "This is an important sale for China Sunergy because it signals that, despite industry uncertainty, we have the opportunity to grow market share in Germany.  We began to sell modules to SUNfarming Group as early as 2007 and we are very pleased to sign this additional 23 MW contract now.  Germany will remain a very important market for us."

About China Sunergy Co., Ltd.

China Sunergy Co., Ltd. is a specialized manufacturer of solar cell and module products in China. China Sunergy manufactures solar cells from silicon wafers, which utilize crystalline silicon solar cell technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity through a process known as the photovoltaic effect, and assembles solar cells into solar modules. China Sunergy sells these solar products to Chinese and overseas module manufacturers, system integrators, and solar power systems for use in various markets. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.chinasunergy.com.

GE Unit Invests with Germany’s KGAL in 50-MW Spanish Concentrated Solar Power Plant Featuring Salt Energy Storage

BADAJOZ, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE (NYSE: GE) unit GE Energy Financial Services announced today it and German fund KGAL are jointly investing €111.1 million in a 50-megawatt parabolic trough concentrated solar power plant using molten salt energy storage in Torre de Miguel Sesmero, Badajoz, Spain.
 
The GE unit and KGAL agreed to invest structured equity in Extresol II, developed by Spain-based ACS, Europe’s largest developer, builder and operator of solar thermal power plants. Additional financial details were not disclosed. ACS has built more than €2 billion worth of concentrated solar power facilities with molten salt storage in Spain. An ACS subsidiary, Cobra, finished construction of Extresol II in Dec. 2010 and provides operations and maintenance services to the plant.

“This transaction complements our growing European renewables portfolio and brings with it a different technology – concentrated solar power with salt storage – working with strong local partners,” said Andrew Marsden, a managing director and European leader at GE Energy Financial Services. “Such investments also support ecomagination, GE’s business strategy to create value for customers by solving energy, efficiency and water challenges.”

This investment is GE Energy Financial Services’ first in a concentrated solar power plant using molten salt storage. Concentrated solar power involves generating power from steam turbines with free, clean heat from the sun, avoiding the use of traditional fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas or oil. The plants use mirrors that reflect sunlight to heat a thermal fluid. The fluid is used to boil water to create steam and power steam turbines that generate electricity. Extresol II stores some of the solar heat by melting a special salt mixture during the day, then extracts the heat when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night, to continue producing steam for the turbines. Because salt is able to store heat for long periods, these facilities can generate electricity an extra seven hours a day.

This solar power plant is contributing to the European Community’s goal of generating 20 percent of its power from renewable sources, reducing emissions by 20 percent and increasing energy efficiency by 20 percent by 2020. The plant generates enough renewable electricity to power approximately 37,900 average Spanish households and avoids approximately 149,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year assuming its power displaces generation from coal- and oil-fired power plants.

“Our investment in the Extresol II solar thermal power plant expands our renewable energy portfolio into a new asset class and is a natural expansion of previous investments in photovoltaic and wind power plants,” said Dr. Klaus Wolf, Managing Director of KGAL. “We now have more than €1.5 billion in our renewable energy portfolio, with this investment marking another milestone in the history of KGAL’s infrastructure investing. We are pleased to team up with GE Energy Financial Services and retain ACS as a reliable partner and service provider to the project. It underpins the long-term focus and sustainability of our investment approach.”

Spain was the first country to use concentrated solar power integrated with molten salt storage. Sixteen 50-megawatt projects have been built in Spain in the last five years, with another 25 under construction or planned. Worldwide, 30 concentrated solar power projects are operating, 10 using molten salt storage and more than 20 under construction or development.

Constellation Energy Reports Third Quarter 2011 Results

BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Constellation Energy (NYSE: CEG) today reported adjusted earnings of $0.68 per share for the third quarter of 2011, compared with adjusted earnings of $0.48 per share in the third quarter of 2010. Adjusted earnings exclude the cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, discontinued operations and special items (which are defined as significant items that are not related to the company’s ongoing, underlying business or which distort comparability of results). On a Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) basis, Constellation Energy reported earnings of $0.36 per share in the third quarter of 2011, compared with a loss of $6.99 per share in the third quarter of 2010.
   
Excluding power restoration costs associated with Hurricane Irene and mark-to-market timing, Constellation Energy reaffirmed its 2011 earnings guidance range of $3.05 to $3.35 per share.

“Our core businesses are performing well in a competitive price environment, benefitting in particular from strong results in our wholesale load serving business. We continue to make headway with our strategy to combine cost-effective conventional and renewable energy supply with an integrated mix of innovative energy management products and solutions,” said Mayo A. Shattuck III, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Constellation Energy.

“During the quarter, we continued to reinforce our commitment to renewable energy with the start of construction on a 16.1 megawatt solar installation in Emmitsburg, Md., that will be the state’s largest when completed,” Shattuck said. “In September, we also launched our solar panel leasing program for residential customers in Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Ohio and Pennsylvania. As a result of this initiative, homeowners can harness solar energy to meet a significant portion of their electricity needs with little or no upfront investment.

“Our generation segment posted solid results for the quarter, with our recently acquired New England generation assets again exceeding our expected output,” Shattuck said. “In Texas, our gas plants performed particularly well during an extended stretch of record-breaking heat in August.

“At BGE, our employees demonstrated their determination and skill in the wake of Hurricane Irene, a massive storm that slammed the region with 72-mile-per-hour wind gusts and knocked out power to 750,000 customers,” Shattuck said. “Despite difficult conditions, BGE restored service to 95 percent of affected customers within five days after Irene passed through our system, and restored all service at a rate that on average was 20 percent faster than in the wake of Hurricane Isabel in 2003.

“Looking ahead, we remain confident in the prospect of combining Constellation’s leading customer-facing retail and wholesale customer platform with Exelon’s clean merchant generation fleet,” Shattuck said. “During the quarter, we reached an agreement with PJM’s Independent Market Monitor to address market power concerns and have received regulatory approval from the Public Utility Commission of Texas. In Maryland, we look forward to the start of hearings before the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) next week and continue to anticipate closing our merger in the first quarter of 2012.”

The following table summarizes adjusted earnings per share and earnings per share reported in accordance with GAAP for the company’s business segments and provides a reconciliation to total company reported earnings.

El Paso Electric Invests in First Utility Owned CPV Project in Texas, Utilizing SolFocus Technology

EL PASO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolFocus and its solar developer partner Solar Smart Living, today announced that they have completed a 53 kW concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) installation which will be owned by El Paso Electric. The solar power installation was developed by El Paso-based Solar Smart Living using six SolFocus SF-1100S tracking CPV systems. The installation is located at El Paso Electric’s substation facility.
   
“This project signifies El Paso Electric’s continued commitment to add renewable energy generation to the region in a sustainable manner,” said Rocky Miracle, Senior Vice President of Corporate Planning and Development for El Paso Electric. “The installation is El Paso Electric’s first owned facility with CPV technology and dual-axis tracking.”

El Paso Electric is using the installment, in part, to evaluate CPV’s potential in the region. In solar-rich places like El Paso, SolFocus CPV technology yields significantly more energy than any other solar technology.

“SolFocus systems are ideal for deployment in the very sunny locations that El Paso Electric serves,” said Mark Crowley, CEO of SolFocus. “SolFocus is eager to work with its partners Solar Smart Living and El Paso Electric to show how CPV can deliver the strongest solar energy harvest available for the region. We are finding that municipalities throughout the sunny Southwest U.S. are seeing the benefit of high efficiency technology in providing them low cost solar energy.”

“The SolFocus systems are quite flexible to install, allowing us to deliver significant electricity output from a small, irregular-shaped piece of land with minimal construction time,” said Larry Perea, president of Solar Smart Living.

Solar Smart Living, a full-service solar integration and green building consulting company, oversaw the engineering, procurement and installment of the system.

SolFocus CPV technology employs a system of patented reflective optics to concentrate sunlight 650 times onto small, highly efficient solar cells. The SolFocus SF-1100S system deployed in El Paso features dual-axis tracking for consistent energy delivery. It also offers environmental benefits including no water usage for energy production, a small land footprint with dual use potential, and no permanent shadowing or wildlife corridor disruption. Additionally, SolFocus CPV provides the shortest energy payback and lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of any solar technology.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held today during a tour offered as part of the Border Energy Forum. Local elected officials will join executives from El Paso Electric, SolFocus and Solar Smart Living for the event. The tour will leave from the El Paso Convention Center at 1:00 p.m. and will stop at the SolFocus installation, along with visits to other innovative energy projects happening around the city.

GT Advanced Technologies Announces $47.7 Million Order for Polysilicon Production Equipment and Technology from Middle East-Based Polysilicon Technology Company

MERRIMACK, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GT Advanced Technologies Inc., (NASDAQ: GTAT), today announced that it has received a $47.7 million order for polysilicon production equipment and technology from Polysilicon Technology Company (PTC), a company based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The order includes SDRTM 400 reactors and increases GT’s polysilicon bookings to over $500 million since the beginning of the current fiscal year, and will be included in GT’s backlog for its Q3 FY12, which ends on December 31, 2011.
   
“We have a strong record of helping new entrants to develop highly productive and low-cost polysilicon production plants around the world and we are excited to be working with Polysilicon Technology Company on this important project,” said Dave Keck, vice president and general manager of GT’s polysilicon business. “This project is an important step in establishing the renewable energy industry in Saudi Arabia and the region as a whole. We are proud to be associated with the highly qualified team at PTC.”

The order is GT’s first from a company based in Saudi Arabia and is the only active polysilicon production project in the Middle East at this time. The new contract continues a technology agreement with PTC that was first signed in 2009. The plant will be located in Jubail Industrial City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Delivery of equipment is expected to begin in the latter half of 2012 with completion scheduled for the end of the year.

“Making such an order reflects our clear vision, belief and commitment to this industry,” said Ibrahim Al-Humaidan, executive director of PTC. “PTC has wider plans and this major milestone embarks its onsite activities in Jubail, GT is a leader in this field with a proven track record and we are happy to be working with them and to be the first company to transfer such an advanced technology to our region.”

SolarWorld Recognized as Renewable-Energy Industry Leader on Sustainability, Transparency

HILLSBORO, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolarWorld, the largest U.S. solar panel manufacturer, has been recognized by three independent rankings as the global renewable-energy industry’s leader in sustainable corporate management, environmentally sound manufacturing and transparent financial reporting.

The 2011 annual report of the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) for Germany, released in Frankfurt in mid-October, positions SolarWorld as the “Sector Leader” among its renewable energy peers. The CDP is a cooperative endeavour by more than 551 institutional investors worldwide to improve corporate transparency on greenhouse gas emissions affecting the climate. To this end, participating companies voluntarily report their annual C02 emissions and their strategies and steps toward climate protection. SolarWorld was deemed to most fully disclose its data, placing the company at the top of the CDP’s ranking.

“SolarWorld’s commitment to sustainability and transparency is a key factor that differentiates us from our competitors,” said Kevin Kilkelly, president of SolarWorld Americas. “As a company, we believe it is not valid to claim to sell a green product if your own business and manufacturing practices are not equally sustainable. Sustainability – environmental, social and fiscal – is at the very core of who we are and what we do.”

For the high quality of its financial reporting, SolarWorld also received accolades in this year’s “Best Annual Reports” competition by Manager Magazine. With its integrated financial and sustainability reporting, which includes environmental and social key performance indicators, SolarWorld outpaced all other companies in the renewable-energy sector. In the overall ranking, the group occupied 10th place among the 160 most important companies listed on four European stock indexes: the DAX, MDAX, SDAX and TecDAX.

Earlier this year, the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition (SVTC), a watchdog group that has monitored the sustainability of the computer and solar industries, ranked SolarWorld first among world solar producers on a range of issues pivoting on sustainable performance. Among factors was the company’s voluntary compliance with reporting regimens encompassing a company’s entire impact, one of which is the U.N.-backed Global Reporting Initiative.

SolarWorld’s performance on the SVTC’s Solar Scorecard was the second year in a row in which the company ranked highest among producers of crystalline silicon solar technology on the only annual ranking of all solar companies on sustainable performance.

T-Solar Continues its International Expansion With the Construction of 61 MW in India and Peru

MADRID, October 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

•     T-Solar is the first Spanish company to connect a solar power plant to the Indian grid
•     Total capex for the 4 new projects is €156m
•     T-Solar has over 230 MW under operation or construction in Spain, Italy, India and Peru

The T-Solar Group, a major solar-PV power generator world-wide, is continuing its international expansion with the construction of a further 61 MW in Peru and India.

The group, which already has over 230 MW under operation and construction in Spain, Italy, India and Peru, has just brought its first PV power plant (5 MW) in India online. The new plant uses thin-film amorphous silicon panels produced in the company's state-of-the-art factory in Galicia (Spain).

It is located near the city of Jodhupur, in the state of Rajasthan, from which it will be feeding 8.5 GWh a year into the country's national electricity grid. It is the first photovoltaic power plant to be brought online by a Spanish company in India, and also one of the first to be commissioned within the framework of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM).

17.3 MW in India

The plant was developed by T-Solar and Astonfield Renewable Resources under a joint-venture agreement they signed last June to roll out photovoltaic power projects. Before year-end, T-Solar and Astonfield will connect their second photovoltaic power plant to the grid on the Indian subcontinent, this time in the Patan district in the state of Gujarat.

The new plant, with an installed capacity of 12.3 MW, will generate 19.4 GWh a year, which will be uploaded into the national electricity grid in a country where demand for electricity is growing as fast as its economy.

The investment in both projects is €38m. The two power plants will generate sufficient power to supply over 43,000 Indian homes.

44 MW under construction in Peru

Along with India, Peru is one of the locations in which T-Solar is focusing its international expansion. In 2010, the company was awarded a 20-year contract to supply the Peruvian government with the 44 MW output of two photovoltaic plants located in the Arequipa region in southern Peru.

The two new plants will be T-Solar's first large-scale projects in the country. They will also use the thin-film amorphous hydrogenated silicon modules produced by the Group to generate 80 GWh a year: sufficient power to supply over 18,000 Peruvian homes. The company is planning to bring them online in June 2012.

A total of €118m will be invested in both projects, partially financed by the American agency, Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC).

ET Solar Introduces Anti-reflective Modules Globally

NANJING, China, Oct. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- ET Solar Group Corp. ("ET Solar"), a China-based vertically integrated producer and provider of Photovaltaic ("PV") modules and related solutions to the global solar market, today announces introduction of anti-reflective modules globally.

ET's anti-reflective modules offer higher electricity production, more stable performance and lower unit cost than conventional glass based modules. Furthermore, the dense coating on the surface of the anti-reflective modules effectively delivers higher light absorption and slows the power degradation, which compares favorably to conventional glass based modules.

The anti-reflective modules are offered under ET Solar 25-year linear power performance warranty, along with a 10-year workmanship warranty and global technical support.

About ET Solar

ET Solar is a China-based vertically integrated producer and provider of solar modules and related PV solutions to the global solar market. With local sales and marketing subsidiaries and offices in Asia, Europe, and North America, ET Solar has provided solar modules, turnkey solutions services and PV balance of system components to its customers in over 50 countries. To learn more about ET Solar, visit http://www.etsolar.com.

BioSolar’s Breakthrough BioBacksheet Approved for Commercial Sales

SANTA CLARITA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioSolar, Inc. (OTCBB: BSRC), developer of a breakthrough technology to produce bio-based materials from renewable plant sources that reduce the cost of photovoltaic (PV) solar modules, today reported that the company received the long awaited provisional Relative Thermal Index (RTI) recognition from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for its BioBacksheet. RTI is the temperature below which a material will not be compromised by long term thermally induced chemical degradation.

UL certification is required for all electronic products and components, such as solar panels, prior to their sale in the general marketplace. BioSolar received UL materials certification for BioBacksheet in February 2011. Since then, UL has been performing long term thermal stability testing on BioBacksheet. The official provisional RTI designation from UL allows solar panel manufacturers to proceed with confidence in integrating BioBacksheet into their panels for full UL certification, which the company expects to be merely a procedural matter.

BioBacksheet is the world’s first and only UL approved bio-based backsheet for use in solar panels, and it is a direct replacement for conventional backsheets currently used in over 70 percent of solar panels in the world. It is the necessary bottom layer of a fully assembled solar panel. BioBacksheet features the following unmatched properties:

•     Lower Cost – Innovative modification of bio-based polymers derived from caster beans results in a lower cost backsheet compared to conventional petroleum-based backsheets.
•     Higher Performance – Advanced materials engineering enabled BioBacksheet to exceed almost all performance characteristics of conventional backsheets.
•     Higher Panel Efficiency –BioBacksheet dissipates heat away from solar cells 70 percent faster than conventional backsheets, allowing them to operate at a lower temperature, which results in higher power output.
•     Green – BioBacksheet lets solar manufacturers improve their profit margins while being socially responsible. BioBacksheet has also received the USDA BioPreferred Certification, giving BioBacksheet solar panels preferred purchase consideration by all United States government procurement agencies.

Dr. David Lee, the company’s CEO, commented, “This is a defining moment for BioSolar. By receiving the official provisional RTI designation from UL, we have completed the final product development milestone for BioBacksheet. I am pleased to report that we are finally ready to accept commercial orders. During the past two years, we have worked closely with several key solar manufacturers that will now be sending their panel to UL for final certification. Once their revised panels are re-certified with BioBacksheet, these customers will be able to sell their solar panels in the general marketplace.”

The company recently reported that it added a number of sizable foreign and domestic solar companies to its growing list of manufacturers that have received samples and are actively evaluating BioBacksheet for use in their solar panels. The company has also announced its plans to uplist its shares to a senior stock exchange to access institutional capital to fuel its commercial growth.

About BioSolar, Inc.

BioSolar, Inc. has developed a breakthrough technology to produce bio-based materials from renewable plant sources that will reduce the cost per watt of solar cells. Most of the solar industry is focused on photovoltaic efficiency to reduce cost. BioSolar is the first company to introduce a new dimension of cost reduction by replacing petroleum-based plastic solar cell components with durable bio-based materials. To learn more about BioSolar, please visit our website at http://www.biosolar.com.

Principal Solar, Inc. (PSWW) Appoints Renowned Astronaut Buzz Aldrin Sc.D. as Senior Advisor

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal Solar, Inc (PSI; OTC Pink: PSWW), a publicly traded renewable energy holding company which concentrates its resources on rapidly advancing the inevitable, worldwide utilization of solar energy through a unique roll-up strategy, announced today that Dr. Buzz Aldrin, Doctor of Science (MIT), aeronautical engineer, retired United States Air Force Colonel, decorated fighter pilot, and legendary astronaut who served as Lunar Module pilot on Apollo 11 -- the first manned lunar landing in history -- will serve as senior advisor. In conjunction with his appointment to the Advisory Board, Dr. Aldrin appeared in partnership with Hunt Energy Enterprises at the Principal Solar launch party, Oct. 19, 2011, at Hunt headquarters,1900 North Akard St., Dallas, Texas.
   
“We are honored to welcome the distinguished Dr. Aldrin to our team, and expect that his guidance will literally take us to the moon,” says Michael Gorton, chief executive officer and chairman of PSI. “His years of aerospace experience, matched with his dedication and continued support of solar power and research for renewable energy sources, aligns him directly with our bottom-line initiatives.”

In 1966, Dr. Aldrin performed the world’s first successful spacewalk on the Gemini 12 orbital mission. On July 20, 1969, he and Neil Armstrong made their historic Apollo 11 moonwalk, becoming the first two humans to set foot on another world. Upon returning from the moon, Dr. Aldrin was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest American peacetime award. Since retiring from NASA and the Air Force, Dr. Aldrin has remained at the forefront of efforts to ensure America’s continued leadership in human space exploration.

His recent trip with President Obama aboard Air Force One to the Space Conference at Kennedy Space Center serves as testament to how influential his opinions are to the key decision-makers in Washington, D.C.

“It’s a privilege to work with the seasoned, high-minded team of innovators at Principal Solar as they propel self-sustaining energy solutions into the mainstream,” states Dr. Aldrin. “In the near future, solar energy will compete with and actually cost less than traditional sources of energy created by fossil fuels. It’s time for the United States to catch up with the rest of the world by embracing this opportunity to become free of devastating oil disasters, independent from foreign oil, and a stronger, more prosperous nation.”

SOLON Collaborates with UniSource Energy Services to bring 10 MW of Solar to Kingman, Arizona

TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SOLON Corporation, one of the largest providers of turnkey solar power plants in the U.S., will build a 10-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) array near Kingman, Arizona, to provide affordable renewable power to customers of UniSource Energy Services (UES).
   
SOLON will provide the energy to UES through a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) that allows the utility to secure a stable energy resource while avoiding the system’s upfront costs. That energy will complement the output of a 1.22 MW UES-owned array that SOLON will also develop near Kingman’s La Senita Elementary School.

“Our partnerships with SOLON are helping us satisfy our renewable energy goals while contributing to the growth of Arizona’s green economy,” said Tom McKenna, Vice President of Engineering and UES for parent company UniSource Energy Corporation (NYSE: UNS). “This PPA is part of a robust renewable energy portfolio designed to provide cost-effective renewable power for UES customers for decades to come.”

Powered by SOLON’s technology, including its single-axis tracking system, the 10 MW solar project will provide a faster, more cost-effective way for UES to integrate solar power into its renewable energy portfolio. Under the hosted PPA model, SOLON will finance, design, construct and maintain the system, with UES responsible only for purchasing the electricity that the system generates.

“SOLON designed its PPA model to offer utilities like UES an attractive, low risk investment,” said Dan Alcombright, Chief Executive Officer and President of North America for SOLON. “This flexible financing model enables UES to buy only the power produced by the system—that is clean solar power delivered directly to UES customers. It also helps the utility meet peak load requirements while lowering the responsibility and costs associated with operations and maintenance.”

The system will be located on approximately 60 acres of land near UES’ Black Mountain Generating Station that lies within the Mohave County Energy Overlay–Solar Photovoltaic Zone. SOLON secured permits for the project in less than three months, and is leading the engineering, procurement and construction services. Project construction will begin this fall, with the systems slated to be commissioned and in-service in the first half of 2012. The system will create more than 200 local jobs for the construction of this project.

For this UES PPA project, SOLON is providing a comprehensive level of products, development and support. In total, the system will feature 60 of SOLON’s single-axis trackers, utilizing more than 40,000 utility solar modules. To help ensure the plant’s performance and efficiency, the company is also providing its own SCADA system, which enables remote control and monitoring.

About SOLON Corporation

SOLON Corporation (www.SOLON.com) is a leading provider of utility-scale and large commercial photovoltaic (PV) system solutions to the North American market. SOLON delivers complete and cost-effective turnkey PV systems to its partners with a streamlined approach from project development, design and construction to financing and operation. With NA headquarters in Tucson, AZ and offices in Phoenix and San Francisco, SOLON is driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to providing superior solar solutions with unrivalled quality and reliability. Founded in 2007, SOLON Corporation is a subsidiary of SOLON SE, a leading international provider of solar solutions for residential, commercial and utility-scale applications. SOLON SE operates subsidiaries in Germany, Italy, France and the U.S. with more than 800 employees worldwide.

GE Working to Cut Solar Installation Costs in Half, Make Rooftop Solar More Affordable

 NISKAYUNA, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With the goal of making solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on rooftops more affordable for home and building owners, a team of scientists and engineers from GE Global Research, the technology development arm for the General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is working on two projects aimed at simplifying and reducing the cost of solar PV installations. The projects are part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Sunshot Initiative.
 
GE is investing hundreds of millions of dollars to promote the growth of the solar industry. Recently, GE’s Energy business announced plans to build the largest U.S. solar factory in Aurora, Colorado (outside of Denver) producing high efficiency thin film solar panels. Over the next three to five years, the new plant will create 355 advanced technology jobs in Colorado and another 100 new positions at GE’s Renewable Energy Global headquarters and Global Research Center in Niskayuna. This will add to the large team of scientists and engineers already working on cutting-edge solar technologies. The projects announced today are part of GE’s R&D efforts, which are focused on integrating more solar power at the utility, commercial and residential scale.

“Today, the average cost of installing a solar system on a typical home is $6.50 per watt, or $32,500. We want to cut the cost by more than half. At less than half the price, solar systems will be practical for millions of homeowners in the United States,” said Charlie Korman, Manager, Solar Energy Programs at GE Global Research. “To achieve such a radical cost reduction, new technologies are needed to simplify and standardize how solar installations are made. The process has to be as routine as putting a new roof on your home.”

Korman noted that the price of rooftop solar has dropped significantly as more and more installations have been made over time, but the prices are still not competitive with current electricity rates. He explained that getting solar installations into the $3.00 per watt range would make rooftop solar a much more attractive investment for millions of consumers in the U.S. For example, the value of the energy generated by a 3.00 per watt residential solar system (fully installed) would more than offset the monthly payment on a typical home equity installment loan.

The first of the two projects will be a $2.9 million program to improve some of the underlying technologies in residential solar systems that help reduce the cost of key components. This will complement another program GE has underway with the New York State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) to reduce the costs of residential solar installations. The second program is a $3 million project focused on commercial rooftop applications. The goal here is to develop pre-wired and pre-configured components for easier installation of solar systems onto commercial rooftops.

The two solar projects with the DOE are closely aligned with GE’s ecomagination initiative. Ecomagination represents GE’s commitment to bring new technologies and products to market that help power the world in cleaner, more sustainable ways. The effort to reduce solar installation costs is a key part of a broader R&D portfolio to make solar a more viable energy source.

About GE Global Research

GE Global Research is the hub of technology development for all of GE's businesses. Our scientists and engineers redefine what’s possible, drive growth for our businesses and find answers to some of the world’s toughest problems.

We innovate 24 hours a day, with sites in Niskayuna, New York; Bangalore, India; Shanghai, China; Munich, Germany; and fifth global research facility to open in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2012. Visit GE Global Research on the web at www.ge.com/research. Connect with our technologists at http://edisons

REFUsol™ Solar Inverters Pass UL Certification Tests

METZINGEN, Germany and SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- REFUsol GmbH today announced that Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has successfully tested and passed the REFUsol 012K-UL, 016K-UL, 020K-UL and 024K-UL solar inverters for use in the U.S. market. All four inverters were tested in accordance to UL1741 and IEEE 1547 standards. The official UL trademark is awaiting issuance.

The UL certification assures safe operation of the inverters for rooftop or ground mount projects throughout the USA. "Now that we are UL certified, REFUsol offers among the most efficient, three-phase transformerless string inverters in the USA. This is an exciting and positive development for US installers, EPCs and developers as they can now reduce time and cost for PV deployment," says Dr. Michael Seehuber, CTO, REFUsol GmbH.

For utility-interactive equipment, these UL test requirements are intended be used with the Standard for Interconnecting Distributed Resources With Electric Power Systems, IEEE 1547, and the Standard for Conformance Test Procedures for Equipment Interconnecting Distributed Resources with Electric Power Systems, IEEE 1547.1.

Juergen Schwarz, Vice President Finance and Business Development, REFU Solar Electronics, Inc., comments: "Our light, compact inverters feature a precise MPP tracker. This enables the inverters to adjust their settings accordingly and achieve high efficiency, even with different temperatures and varying sun exposure."

REFUsol inverters are rated IP65 or NEMA 4, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor conditions. The products covered by these requirements are intended to be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70.

Since 2009, REFUsol's US headquarters has been based in San Jose, California. For more information on the products, please visit: www.refusol.com.

About REFUsol GmbH

With over 45 years of experience in power electronics, REFUsol is one of the top three providers of solar inverters globally and one of the fastest growing companies in this field. REFUsol's efficient and award-winning solar inverters help customers maximize the yield of their photovoltaic plants, whether for small roof-top installations or large-scale solar plants. REFUsol is headquartered in Metzingen, Germany and has further international offices in Europe, Korea, China, India and the U.S. as well as sales and service partners in key strategic photovoltaic markets around the world. Please visit www.refusol.com for more information.

MEMC Schedules Third Quarter Conference Call

ST. PETERS, Mo., Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (NYSE: WFR) invites investors to listen to a broadcast of the Company's conference call to discuss third quarter 2011 financial results.  The live webcast will take place on Wednesday, November 2, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time at www.memc.com.  Participating in the call will be Ahmad Chatila, Chief Executive Officer, and Mark Murphy, Chief Financial Officer. A replay of the call will be available until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on November 9, 2011 on the Company's web site at www.memc.com.

About MEMC

MEMC is a global leader in semiconductor and solar technology. MEMC has been a pioneer in the design and development of silicon wafer technologies for over 50 years. With R&D and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Europe and Asia, MEMC enables the next generation of high performance semiconductor devices and solar cells. Through its SunEdison subsidiary, MEMC is also a developer of solar power projects and a worldwide leader in solar energy services.

MEMC's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "WFR" and is included in the S&P 500 Index. For more information about MEMC, please visit www.memc.com.

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., Launches Rhode Island’s Largest Solar Farm

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Toray Plastics (America), Inc., (www.TorayFilms.com), has completed the construction of a $2 million, 445 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic (PV) farm on its 70-acre campus in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The new, three-acre solar farm is the largest in the state, consists of 1,650 PV panels, and will generate 625 megawatt hours (MW h) a year, curbing escalating energy costs and reducing CO2 emissions by 340 tons per year. On September 29, Rick Schloesser, President and CEO, Toray Plastics, hosted the inauguration ceremony and officially launched the highly efficient renewable-energy system. In attendance to celebrate the achievement were Lincoln D. Chafee, Governor of Rhode Island; M. Teresa Paiva Weed, Senate President; Laurence W. Erhardt, Representative, District 32, North Kingstown; Keith Stokes, Executive Director, Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation; David M. Dooley, President, the University of Rhode Island; Mr. Toru Fukasawa, Chief Representative of Toray Americas, and Toray employees. Governor Chafee congratulated Toray on its environmental consciousness, its role as a “great corporate citizen,” and its commitment to manufacturing in Rhode Island and for creating good jobs for state residents. Chafee also said he would like to see the kind of growth in manufacturing and renewable-energy applications that Toray has achieved spread across the state. He concluded his remarks by stating, “We’re proud to have you here and keep up the good work.” Toray Plastics (America), Inc., is the only United States manufacturer of precision-performance polypropylene, polyester, and bio-based films for packaging and industrial applications and one of Rhode Island’s premier employers.
   
Schloesser said that it was an exciting day for Toray as the company began harnessing the power of the sun. “This farm has been a dream of Toray Plastics America, and a personal one of mine, for the past three years. Its completion is a tribute to how government and business can come together to work toward a mutual goal.” Schloesser told the guests that Toray launched a major sustainability initiative in 2004 that enabled the company to achieve its goal of producing zero landfill waste, among many other significant benefits, to improve its environmental profile. He also noted that Toray’s clean-energy project came to fruition as a result of the vision, talent, and dedication of Toray employees.

Funding for the solar farm was provided by Toray, grants from the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Renewable Energy fund, and state and federal grants made possible by the Federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Energy conservation is fundamental to the well-being of Toray’s business. By choosing solar energy as part of its energy strategy, the company further strengthens its position in the marketplace, enhances its relationship with the community, and reduces its carbon footprint.

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., is a leading manufacturer of polyester, polypropylene, and bio-based films for flexible and rigid packaging, lidding, graphic, industrial, optical, and electronic applications. The company is a subsidiary of Toray Industries, Inc., the world leader in synthetic fibers and textiles, carbon fibers, plastics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and high-performance films, which has annual sales exceeding US$21 billion. Visit the Toray Plastics (America), Inc., website at www.TorayFilms.com. For information about Toray’s entire line of polyester, polypropylene, and bio-based films, contact Mary Gervais, mary.gervais@toraytpa.com. Toray Plastics (America), Inc., is located at 50 Belver Avenue, North Kingstown, RI 02852-7500; telephone 401-294-4511, fax 401-294-1480.

Quanta Services Selected for Construction of a 20 MW Utility- Scale Solar Facility by Samsung C&T America

HOUSTON, Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE: PWR) today announced that it has secured a contract to provide comprehensive engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for the Atwell Island Solar Generation Facility Project. The project is a 20 megawatt utility-scale solar installation for SPS Atwell LLC, a project company partly owned by Samsung C&T America, Inc. Located near the city of Alpaugh in Tulare County, Calif., the project was developed by Samsung C&T America and is expected to be a significant contributor to the local community through the creation of local jobs and the generation of clean, renewable power.

"We look forward to showcasing our industry-leading EPC capabilities on this project, and are excited to play a significant role in making this project for Samsung a success," said Jim O'Neil, president and chief executive officer of Quanta Services.

Engineering of the project is underway with construction expected to start by the end of October with project completion anticipated in August 2012.

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering infrastructure solutions for the electric power, natural gas and pipeline and telecommunication industries. The company's comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining network infrastructure nationwide. Additionally, Quanta licenses point-to-point fiber optic telecommunications infrastructure in select markets and offers related design, procurement, construction and maintenance services. With operations throughout North America, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope.

China suppliers of solar panels and power systems launch innovative designs, new strategies to meet challenges

HONG KONG, Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China suppliers of solar panels and power systems are optimistic about strong sales as they improve product performance, even while slashing prices and confronting substantial industry challenges.

This is according to Global Sources' (NASDAQ: GSOL) China Sourcing Report: Solar Panels & Power Systems. The Report covers the major types of China-made solar panels and power systems, including crystalline and thin-film modules and fixed and portable versions.

Publisher of the Report, Livia Yip, said: "Buoyed by stellar sales performance in 2010, when some product categories soared by 200 percent, most China suppliers are confident of continued export growth in the coming months. Of surveyed suppliers, nearly 80 percent anticipate double-digit increases for overseas sales.

"To secure market presence and attract more orders, suppliers are launching innovative designs and cutting prices by as much as 15 percent. Such steps aim to ensure survival as the industry engages difficult changes."

China Sourcing Report: Solar Panels & Power Systems shows rich R&D yielding innovative products, with greater portability being a major trend among manufacturers. New designs include power systems for smartphones, notebooks and MP3 players. Releases of PV sets for emergencies and outdoor activities are smaller in size, and convenience is also seen in designs featuring foldable solar arrays.

Among solar panels, R&D is also targeted at enhanced efficiency with conversion rates of 16 percent and higher, service life extension to 25 years, and a wider operating temperature range of -40 to 85 °C. The latest products from China are also more appealing, with attractive white or black frames.

China suppliers cope by cutting prices, expanding markets

The Report also reveals that China-made solar panels and power systems are becoming less expensive as competition intensifies. Forty-two percent of surveyed manufacturers are planning to pull down quotes. Price cuts stem from recent developments, including the entry of more small and mid-size companies attracted by a steady rise in demand for alternative energy technologies. The 40 percent drop in polysilicon costs since March 2011 is another contributing factor.

While the EU remains the top export market absorbing 80 percent of shipments, many China suppliers are expanding their reach into non-EU countries, North America, the Asia-Pacific region and Africa to boost sales. The domestic market is gaining more attention as well.

These strategies come as the industry faces new challenges. Besides escalating price competition, suppliers are dealing with Germany's and Italy's announced reductions of feed-in tariffs on large PV installations. Suppliers worry this might discourage investment in solar-generating systems across the EU, diminishing demand for panel technologies there, leading to a consolidation of the industry in China.

To survive such difficulties, some enterprises are moving upstream for greater control of manufacturing expenditure and quality.

Other industry trends indicated by China Sourcing Report: Solar Panels & Power Systems include:

    74% of manufacturers plan to increase capital expenditure
    53% of suppliers see pricing pressure as the biggest challenge
    Higher labor and material costs and stricter overseas standards are also concerns


Supplier profiles, price forecasts, and the latest solar power products for export

The 44-page China Sourcing Report: Solar Panels & Power Systems provides detailed profiles of 19 suppliers with verified manufacturing and export credentials. It also includes a Product Gallery featuring 45 of the most popular export models, with key specifications and full-color pictures.

The Report's surveys, price trends and supply forecasts aim to help buyers make better-informed purchasing decisions.

Specialized Global Sources websites, face-to-face events, trade magazines and research reports

China Sourcing Reports are part of Global Sources' sourcing and product information services. These include Global Sources Online (http://www.globalsources.com), China Sourcing Fairs (http://www.chinasourcingfair.com), Online Sourcing Fairs (http://www.onlinesourcingfair.com), Private Sourcing Events (http://www.PrivateSourcingEvents.com) and Global Sources monthly magazines (http://www.globalsources.com/SITE/MAGAZINES.HTM).

For more information about Global Sources' products and services that connect quality buyers with verified suppliers, please visit http://www.corporate.globalsources.com.

China Sourcing Report: Solar Panels & Power Systems is available for purchase at http://www.chinasourcingreports.com/solarpanelspowersystems.

Free information about China suppliers of solar panels and power systems can be found at http://www.chinasuppliers.globalsources.com/china-suppliers/Solar-Power-System.htm.

About Global Sources

Global Sources is a leading business-to-business media company and a primary facilitator of trade with Greater China.

The core business facilitates trade between Asia and the world using English-language media such as online marketplaces (http://www.globalsources.com), print and digital magazines, sourcing research reports, private sourcing events, trade shows, and online sourcing fairs.

Over 1 million international buyers, including 85 of the world's top 100 retailers, use these services to obtain product and company information to help them source more profitably from overseas supply markets. These services also provide suppliers with integrated marketing solutions to build corporate image, generate sales leads and win orders from buyers in more than 240 countries and territories.

Global Sources' other businesses provides Chinese-language media to companies selling to and within Greater China. These services include online web sites, print and digital magazines, seminars and trade shows. In mainland China, Global Sources has a network of more than 40 office locations and a community of nearly 3 million registered online users and magazine readers of its Chinese-language media.

Now in its fifth decade, Global Sources has been publicly listed on the NASDAQ since 2000.

Arizona Governor Jan Brewer Celebrates Progress of Sempra Generation Solar Plant

ARLINGTON, Ariz., Oct. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Arizona Governor Jan Brewer today joined community leaders and executives from Sempra Generation, a leading solar developer and subsidiary of San Diego-based Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), Zachry Holdings, Inc., a leading U.S. EPC firm, and Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, to celebrate the ongoing construction of Mesquite Solar 1.

"In order to advance Arizona's economy, it's essential that we attract the industries of the future," said Governor Jan Brewer. "The Mesquite Solar complex represents clean energy and quality jobs. I look forward to Sempra Generation's continued growth and success in Arizona."

The event also commemorated the first shipment of solar panels from Suntech's 117,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Goodyear, Ariz. to the construction site. Upon completion in 2013, the 150-megawatt (MW) Mesquite Solar 1 plant will feature more than 800,000 Suntech solar panels, with a portion of them manufactured in Arizona.

Developed by Sempra Generation, Mesquite Solar 1 will generate enough clean electricity for about 56,000 homes. As announced earlier this year, the power from the project has been sold under a 20-year agreement to California's Pacific Gas & Electric. At full build-out, the Mesquite Solar complex could grow to about 700 MW.

"We are pleased to be joined by Governor Brewer and the local community to celebrate the construction progress that's being made here at the Mesquite Solar complex," said Jeffrey W. Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation. "Because of the leadership of Governor Brewer and other policy-makers in the state, this solar project has created hundreds of new construction jobs while supporting an expanded manufacturing base in Arizona. Mesquite Solar 1 is a giant step forward for our company, and it's having an even more significant impact on the local economy."

With decades of experience in power plant construction, Zachry is responsible for the engineering and construction of Mesquite Solar 1.

"We are excited to partner with Sempra and Suntech to build one of the largest solar plants in the world," said Steve Dedman, senior vice president with Zachry. "We are nearly complete with the design and procurement of materials, and are off to a good start on the construction effort. Many of our materials and supplies have been purchased from businesses in the local region. We have established a local employment office in Buckeye and are expecting a field workforce of several hundred employees at peak."

Since opening in October 2010, Suntech's Goodyear manufacturing facility has grown steadily, and now employs more than 100 professionals producing about 50 MW (DC) of solar panels each year. Over the next year, about one out of every three panels produced at Suntech's Goodyear facility will be sent to the nearby Mesquite Solar 1 plant.

"It's great to see thousands of panels coming off our lines and being installed right here in Arizona," said John Lefebvre, president of Suntech America. "A skilled workforce and supportive business climate made Arizona a natural fit for Suntech's first U.S. manufacturing facility. Arizona is well-positioned as a global hub in the growing clean energy economy."

Largest Solar Plant in Central and Eastern Europe Opens in Ukraine

KYIV, Ukraine, October 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

The 80 MW power plant in Southern Ukraine has opened its fourth, final line and will produce an annual 100,000 megawatt-hours of electricity. The Okhotnykovo solar power plant is the world's fourth most powerful photovoltaic park after Canadian Sarnia, Italian Montalto di Castro, and German Finsterwalde.

The new power plant in Southern Ukrainian Crimea is capable of producing enough energy to meet the needs of 20,000 households. The work of the Okhotnykovo park will help save energy and protect the environment by reducing Ukraine's carbon dioxide emission by 80,000 tons per year.

The solar power plant in Okhotnykovo, Crimea, is a part of the country's national Natural Energy project. The State Agency of Ukraine for Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation launched the project in 2010. It is aimed at producing electric energy from the green, "clean" sources - the sun and the wind - in the amount of 2,000 MW. The objective of this initiative is to supply the area of Crimea with electricity that requires low transportation cost, as well as preserve the environment of the region, making these areas even more attractive to tourists. The state agency expects the production share of alternative energy to make up to 30 percent of Ukrainian energy market before 2015.

The project executive - the Austrian company Activ Solar has just opened an office in the South Ukrainian megalopolis Odesa and stated the desire to further its activity in the region. Previously, the CEO of the Activ Solar Kaveh Ertefai said: "Project of this scale means a radical change of solar energy development in Europe, while securing Ukraine's position as renewable energy provider."

Ukraine has a great potential at the market of the solar energy projects. The solar radiation in the country reaches the capacity of 800-1450 W/m² per year. The southern regions of Ukraine have the highest potential for the solar energy production.

The main incentive for the growth of Ukraine's solar Photovoltaic market is the so-called green tariff system, approved by the state in September 2008. The system introduced fixed feed-in tariffs for electricity from renewable sources for the period of 20 years.

SiOnyx Solar Achieves Record Results for Black Silicon Solar Cells

BEVERLY, Mass., Oct. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- SiOnyx, Inc. today announced that its patented ultrafast laser texturing technology known as Black Silicon has achieved a 0.3% (absolute) efficiency boost over industry-standard baseline solar cells.  The SiOnyx 156 mm multicrystalline silicon cells, made in collaboration with German research institute ISC Konstanz, achieved average absolute efficiencies of over 17%.

Importantly, SiOnyx Black Silicon boosts efficiency in thinner wafers, vital for reducing the cost of silicon-based solar cells.  Average efficiencies of 16.9% were achieved for 150-micron thick multicrystalline cells that are 20% thinner than wafers in production today and represent a cost reduction of 10-15%.  All cells were processed and tested at ISC Konstanz using a standard emitter, screen-printed metal, and aluminum back surface field.  Black Silicon texturing was performed using a Coherent Aethon™ tool with a Talisker™ picosecond laser.

Additionally, the SiOnyx process results in a significant improvement in process uniformity.  Standard deviations for cell efficiency and current are reduced by a factor of two using SiOnyx's Black Silicon, resulting in further cost reductions through improved process yield and tighter efficiency binning.

"These results are further validation of the Black Silicon process and its ability to improve the economics of mainstream solar energy - and the technology is ready now," commented Stephen Saylor, President and CEO of SiOnyx.  "SiOnyx's single-sided texture achieves significantly lower surface reflectance than industry-standard isotexture to improve cell performance.  We boost infrared performance, thus making SiOnyx Black Silicon a great complement to existing selective emitter technologies."

SiOnyx Black Silicon is a drop-in solution for the majority of solar cell lines using industry standard isotexture and is critical in supporting roadmap architectures requiring a planar back surface for dielectric passivation.  SiOnyx Black Silicon is completely independent of grain orientation and therefore ideal for all wafer types including multicrystalline.  By decoupling the saw damage removal and surface texturing steps, the SiOnyx process is the perfect solution for manufacturers seeking to improve both the price and performance of existing lines while establishing a roadmap for next-generation cells using backside passivation with local contacts.

For additional product and licensing information please contact SiOnyx Solar at solarbizdev@sionyx.com.

About SiOnyx

SiOnyx (www.sionyx.com) is commercializing a patented semiconductor process known as Black Silicon that dramatically enhances the infrared sensitivity of silicon-based photonics. As a result, SiOnyx's Black Silicon platform represents a significant breakthrough in the development of smaller, cheaper, higher performance photonic devices. SiOnyx Solar is focused on next generation photovoltaic applications. SiOnyx Imaging is developing advanced digital imaging solutions for consumer, industrial, medical, and defense applications. Additional information about SiOnyx Solar is available at www.sionyx.com/solar.

First Solar to Announce Third Quarter 2011 Financial Results on Thursday, November 3, 2011

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) will report financial results for the third quarter ended Friday September 30, 2011, after market closes on Thursday, November 3, 2011. The Company will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss these results and outlook for 2011 at 4:30 p.m. ET. Investors may access a live webcast of this conference call by visiting http://investor.firstsolar.com/events.cfm.

An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States or 719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States and entering the replay pass code 9081154. A replay of the webcast will be available on the Investors section of the Company’s web site approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 90 calendar days.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology, and is a premier provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) system solutions. The company is delivering an economically viable alternative to fossil-fuel generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating value-driven renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

For First Solar Investors

This release contains forward-looking statements which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The forward-looking statements in this release do not constitute guarantees of future performance. Those statements involve a number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including risks associated with the company's business involving the company's products, their development and distribution, economic and competitive factors and the company's key strategic relationships and other risks detailed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. First Solar assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained in this press release or with respect to the announcements described herein.

Tegal Announces Opening of Sequel Power Offices in Argentina and Chile

PETALUMA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tegal Corporation (NASDAQ:TGAL) today announced that Sequel Power, its portfolio company dedicated to the development and operation of large-scale photovoltaic (PV)-based solar utility projects, has opened offices in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Santiago, Chile.
   
The new offices, which serve Sequel Power’s customers and partners in South America, are overseen by Prince Alexander von Sachsen, Sequel Power’s Chairman of South America and Middle East/Africa.

Sequel Power is currently working on South American large-scale photovoltaic-based solar utilities projects in Argentina, Chile and Ecuador.

“South America is a tremendous growth region for utility-scale solar energy projects,” said Sequel Power President and Chief Executive Officer Ferdinand Seemann. “These projects require Sequel Power to have an ongoing presence in these important markets. We are grateful for the warm reception we have received at our new locations, and we are delighted to be a central part of the solar industry in South America.”

About Tegal

Since its founding in 1972, Tegal Corporation has been dedicated to the development and application of emerging technologies. Often on the forefront of major inventions, Tegal’s process and capital equipment know-how enabled the development and manufacturing of leading-edge devices – from early microprocessors to advanced memory and LEDs, as well as to newest filtering and sensing devices that are present in the most advanced smart phones. Through its recent investment in sequel Power, Tegal is engaged in the promotion of solar power plant development projects worldwide and other renewable energy projects. In addition, Tegal is actively evaluating opportunities for partnerships with other diversified technology-based companies in order to exploit our shared experience and to enhance our value as a public company. Tegal is headquartered in Petaluma, California. Please visit us on the web at www.tegal.com.

About Sequel Power

In 2011, Tegal formed, along with Se2quel Partners LLC, a new company dedicated to the development and operation of large-scale photovoltaic (PV)-based solar utilities in the United States, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa. Currently, Sequel Power has more than a dozen active projects in six countries with major partners in various stages of analyzing and developing solar utilities. More information may be obtained at www.sequelpower.com.

PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems, Florida, Awarded Two Eagle Awards in 2011

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems was awarded two Eagle Awards by the Association of Building Contractors for superior workmanship in key initiatives in the beautiful state of Florida. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors website, “ABC's Awards of Excellence Program has become the premier competition within the construction industry. These awards recognize outstanding construction projects from across the nation.” The competition is a nationwide program that publicly recognizes quality and innovation in construction. Voting for the Eagle awards is by industry peers recognizing superiority in all areas including client satisfaction.
   
The first project recognized is the Amway Center, the centerpiece of Downtown Orlando's revitalization with a modern, technologically advanced facility with a vast array of cultural, sporting and entertainment options to residents. Bill Walker, project manager with C.T. Hsu + Associates, P.A., the roof system design expert, was very proud to work with PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems on this project, stating, “the roof’s solar reflective index (SRI) was one of the important criteria to the design team for the roof systems, contributing to the LEED Gold Project Award. The single ply and modified bitumen roof systems on the Amway Center have the highest SRI Value of any project in the designer’s history.”

The second project is in the Magic Kingdom of Disneyland in Orlando. Craig Dallas, VP of Sales and Marketing stated, “due to the nature of this type of project, the timely fashion in which we finished the job, our concern for customer satisfaction and the ability to keep any costs and change orders to a minimum, PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems worked above and beyond to deliver to the customer exactly what was expected without any incidents that would jeopardize future work. It was a real honor to be selected to do the re-roofing on the Mad Hatter Tea Cup ride simply because it is one of the world’s most popular rides at any Disney park. In addition, we are very proud of the commitment to operational excellence by Keith McStoots, PetersenDean General Superintendent, and the local Orlando team for their efforts on both projects.”

About PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems

PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems serves a full range of residential and commercial projects. Recently the company supported the redevelopment of Fort Ord, a military base in Monterey, Calif., where 3,000 homes where reconstructed to become more energy efficient. Other substantial projects include US Coast Guard Puerto Rico “Smarter Roof,” Marlins Stadium, and NASA in Houston, the Orlando Magic’s new arena and Performing Arts, San Francisco’s Pier 39, The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio Texas and Ponte Palmero, Cameron Park, Calif., all of which included energy-rated cool roofs.

Hidden Valley Lake Community Services District Breaks Ground on a Carbon Free Water Supply

SANTA ROSA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On October 24, 2011, the Hidden Valley Lake Community Services District (www.hiddenvalleylakecsd.com) will break ground on a solar power project that will provide one hundred percent of the energy for its water reclamation plant. The project will provide a sustainable, affordable, long-term power supply for this small community that already recycles one hundred percent of its highly treated wastewater for golf course irrigation. Winzler & Kelly (www.w-and-k.com), a subsidiary of GHD (www.ghd.com/usa/), developed the project, which includes 1176 photovoltaic panels located on one acre at the water reclamation plant. Real Goods (www.realgoods.com) will supply and install the array.
 
The project received significant support from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. The agency is providing nearly $1 million in grants and $640,000 in low interest loan funding. USDA’s support of the District’s project reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to supporting the development of sustainable utility service for rural communities. The District anticipates that it will be able to fund its loan payments from the savings it will experience in power purchase costs.

“This project realizes a long-term goal of our District,” says District General Manager Mel Aust. “With USDA’s support we’ll achieve energy independence and be able to protect our rate payers from long-term volatility in the power market. The solar project will also reduce our carbon emissions by approximately 120 tons per year. We already reuse all of our treated wastewater and this project enhances the sustainability of our operation. Our staff, our District Engineer and USDA worked hard to put this project together. Special thanks go to the Hidden Valley Lake CSD Board of Directors whose strong leadership has been instrumental and demonstrates that small communities can do bold and innovative things.”

Hidden Valley Lake Community Services District is a special district serving a community of 7,000 residents in southern Lake County, California. Winzler & Kelly is an Engineering News Record Top 500 firm that emphasizes quality, value-engineering, and sustainable design. GHD is an international network of engineers, architects and environmental scientists that thinks beyond tomorrow to anticipate future challenges.

First Solar Announces Chairman Michael Ahearn to Serve as Interim CEO

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Board of Directors of First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) today asked its Chairman and company founder, Mike Ahearn, to serve as interim Chief Executive Officer. Ahearn has accepted. Effective immediately, Rob Gillette is no longer serving as Chief Executive Officer, and the Board of Directors thanks him for his service to the company. The Board of Directors has formed a search committee and is initiating a search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology, and is a premier provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) system solutions. The company is delivering an economically viable alternative to fossil-fuel generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating value-driven renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

Sopogy Appoints Craig Lobdell Vice President of Strategy

HONOLULU--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sopogy®, the world’s leading developer of micro concentrated solar power (MicroCSP) technologies, has appointed Craig Lobdell to the newly created position of Vice President of Strategy.
 
Lobdell is a veteran of the clean energy industry, with over 21 years of energy, clean technology and venture capital experience. Most recently he was a Director of Advisory Services in San Francisco for KPMG where he led the Cleantech Advisory Services practice.

Darren T. Kimura, President and CEO of Sopogy said, “The solar power industry is undergoing change and through our unique offerings in thermal energy storage, solar air conditioning and industrial heat applications, Sopogy is undergoing rapid growth. Craig’s experience and wealth of sector knowledge will help us grow strategically and continue to deliver outstanding value to our customers.”

Prior to joining KPMG, Lobdell was a management consultant with CSC Index, Arthur Andersen, and BearingPoint. In addition he has worked for GE Capital and was a Legislative Affairs Analyst for the Department of Energy (DOE). Lobdell earned his BA from Carleton College, an MA from the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University and an MBA from Yale School of Management, Yale University.

About Sopogy and MicroCSP

Sopogy revolutionized solar thermal technology with MicroCSP. Developing modular collectors about one-third the size of a traditional concentrated solar power mirror, Sopogy cut the cost of solar thermal energy to a fraction of the cost. Proprietary storage units stabilize volatile energy production when cloudy and prolong production after sunset. Sopogy’s thermal energy is the fuel for stable, renewable power generation, air conditioning, and process heat. Please visit www.sopogy.com for more information.

Veeco Reports Third Quarter 2011 Financial Results

PLAINVIEW, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Veeco Instruments Inc. (Nasdaq: VECO) announced its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2011. Veeco reports its results on a U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) basis, and also provides results excluding certain items. Please refer to the attached table for details of the reconciliation between GAAP operating results and Non-GAAP operating results. All results presented herein are for Veeco’s “Continuing Operations” which excludes the Metrology business sold to Bruker Corporation on October 7, 2010 and reflect the discontinuation of Veeco’s CIGS Solar Systems business.
 
GAAP Results ($M except EPS)
  Q3 ‘11 Q3 ‘10
Revenues $268.0 $277.1
Net income $52.6 $93.7
EPS (diluted) $1.31 $2.22

Non-GAAP Results ($M except EPS)
  Q3 ‘11 Q3 ‘10
Net income $53.3 65.4
EPS (diluted) $1.33 $1.55


Third Quarter Results in Line with Guidance

John R. Peeler, Veeco’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Veeco reported a solid third quarter, with revenues of $268 million, non-GAAP net income and earnings per share of $53 million and $1.33, respectively, all at the mid to high end of our guidance. LED & Solar revenues increased 7% sequentially to $234 million, including $220 million in MOCVD, while Data Storage revenues were $34 million, down 25% sequentially. Veeco has continued to execute within the challenging overall business environment, particularly in China, where customer facility readiness and credit tightening remain significant issues. Veeco’s new MaxBright™ MOCVD System represented nearly half of the quarter’s MOCVD revenue, including broad-scale customer acceptance at tier one LED manufacturers.”

“Veeco’s third quarter orders were impacted by weak near-term LED industry demand, low MOCVD equipment utilization rates in Asia, and decreased business activity in China,” commented Mr. Peeler. “In addition, negative global macro-economic data points caused customers to slow or cut their capacity expansion plans.” Veeco’s third quarter bookings were $133 million, a decline of 57% sequentially. LED & Solar orders declined 59% sequentially to $112 million, with MOCVD orders at $103 million. Data Storage orders were $21 million, down 44% sequentially. The Company’s Q3 2011 book-to-bill ratio was .50 to 1. Veeco recorded backlog adjustments of $34 million during the quarter. Veeco’s quarter-end backlog was $389 million.

During the third quarter, under its Board authorized share buy-back program initiated in August 2010, Veeco purchased $154 million in stock at an average price of $38.63 per share.

Fourth Quarter 2011 Guidance & Outlook

Veeco’s fourth quarter 2011 revenue is currently forecasted to be between $175 million and $215 million. Earnings per share are currently forecasted to be between $0.46 to $0.78 on a GAAP basis, and $0.54 to $0.86 on a non-GAAP basis. For the full year, Veeco’s guidance is $963 million to $1.0 billion, with earnings per share forecasted to be between $4.49 - $4.79 on a GAAP basis and $4.81 to $5.11 on a non-GAAP basis. Please refer to the attached financial table for more details.

Mr. Peeler commented, “Despite the difficult overall environment, we are proud that the Company expects to deliver $1 billion in 2011 revenue at the high end of guidance. This is a tremendous accomplishment and speaks to our technology leadership position, close connectivity to our global customers and ability to execute in a challenging environment.”

“Our current expectation is orders will remain depressed for a few quarters,” continued Mr. Peeler. “While there are many data points indicating that LED lighting is accelerating, weak backlighting demand continues to cause low factory utilization rates. In Data Storage, planned industry consolidations combined with weak PC demand is causing our key customers to delay capex. In addition, global macro-economic concerns will likely have a dampening effect on our business heading into 2012. With our variable cost model, combined with plans to decrease spending levels to reflect the challenging business environment, we are confident we will remain profitable and expect to deliver double-digit EBITA performance next year.”

Mr. Peeler concluded, “While we do not know how long this slowdown will last, LED pricing declines will continue to stimulate demand for solid state lighting on a global basis. We expect wide-spread adoption of LED lighting led first by the commercial, municipal and industrial sectors, which make up 75% of the lighting market, followed by residential users as economic benefits of using LED-based products become more apparent. Despite some level of cyclicality which is to be expected, there is an enormous multi-year growth opportunity for MOCVD, aligning with our overall expectation of 5,000+ reactors from 2011 to 2015. With the industry’s most productive MOCVD platforms, Veeco’s market position is the best it has ever been. We believe the Company can continue to gain share as LED lighting hits an inflection point in 2012 and 2013.”

Conference Call Information

A conference call reviewing these results has been scheduled for 5:00pm ET today at 1-877-718-5095 (toll free) or 1-719-325-4929 using passcode 4998835. The call will also be webcast live on the Veeco website at www.veeco.com. A replay of the call will be available starting at 8:00pm ET tonight through 8:00pm ET on November 7, 2011 at 888-203-1112 or 719-457-0820, using passcode 4998835, or on the Veeco website. Please follow along with our slide presentation also posted on the website.

About Veeco

Veeco makes equipment to develop and manufacture LEDs, solar cells, hard disk drives and other devices. We support our customers through product development, manufacturing, sales and service sites in the U.S., Korea, Taiwan, China, Singapore, Japan, Europe and other locations. Please visit us at www.veeco.com.

Astronergy Develops New Techniques to Boost Efficiency of Mono Crystalline PV Cells

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Scientists at Astronergy have developed improved design and manufacturing techniques for generating high efficiency 6" mono crystalline cells, exceeding 19%, without any cost increase.

This new "Nova" technology is in line with the company's core strategy of creating the best products possible while keeping cost low. The new technology will have immediate impact to our customers providing a product that can provide a higher system power output and utilizing less space at no additional cost. Our customers will be more competitive and be able to provide a faster return on investment to investors.

"There are further improvements that we will make, but this takes us a significant step closer to the ultimate goal, which is to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels by providing more affordable renewable energy solutions and products," said Dr. Liyou Yang, CEO at Astronergy.

Commercialization of the new cells using the "Nova" technology has been available. Astronergy showcased at SPI show in Dallas the latest modules with output to 260Wp for 60-cell series and to 310Wp for 72-cell series. Additional efficiency improvements are capable with the new technology and planned for production introduction in the near future.

Residential Solar Concentrating Receives Accolades

MOORESVILLE, NC--(Marketwire - Oct 24, 2011) - Sky Power Solutions Corp., (OTCBB: SPOW) (www.skypowersolutions.com), an emerging leader in the development and marketing of next generation lithium-powered batteries worldwide, and a leading developer of residential Solar Concentrating, Electric Power Generation Systems able to produce in excess of 2 Kilowatts (kw) of electric power with ZERO emissions and sunlight as the only fuel including built-in heat capture to provide hot water to users was unveiled and is on display during SOLAR INTERNATIONAL 2011 (SPI) at the Dallas Convention Center.

Exhibiting at the event was the US Department of Energy (DOE), promoting their "SunShot" initiative. DOE's structured R&D funding enables efforts along the entire PV technology development pipeline, from new devices and processes, the rough prototype design and pilot production, to systems development and manufacturing. The Next Generation Photo-Voltronic Program funds the development of high risk, high reward transformational technology projects. The Foundational Program to Advance Cell Efficiency seeks to narrow the gap in efficiency seen in today's top performing Lab cells and standard manufactured cells. Moving closer to commercialization, the SunShot Incubator Program, then develops prototype designs to full scale, while the Supply Chain Program and the PV Manufacturing Initiative refines and advances. DOE staff visited the Sky Power booth and made favorable comments on the design of unit. Additional information on the DOE's SunShot initiative can be obtained at: energy.gov/sunshot

The high level of floor traffic to the Sky Power Solutions booth resulted in getting the attention of various media outlets. Photon Magazine, ROBOT.NET among others visited the booth and captured content and pictures. KLNC-TV perform an on-camera interview with Rich Ralston of Sky Power Solutions who demonstrates and discusses the design, features and function of the Sky Power Solutions standalone concentrating Photo-Voltronic residential electric generation system including heat capture.

Sky Power Solutions presented and demonstrated the features and functions of the Sky Power Solar Concentrating Photo-Voltronic system with supplemental heat capture to the Solar Industry attendees and was received with an overwhelmingly positive response. Other exhibitors became very interested in the unit as the word spread across the show floor resulting in many of them visiting the Sky Power booth throughout the duration of the event making very positive and favorable comments about the design, features and function of the Sky Power system.

The Sky Power Solutions system has the peek capability to produce 2.0 kw (kilowatt) of electricity plus an estimated 1.2 kw (kilowatt) of additional thermal energy for heating of household water, resulting in a 19% overall efficiency.

Before now, this advanced technology was only available to large utilities and large scale commercial/industrial applications. Sky Power Solutions has harnessed this technology and is now making it available to homeowners for the first time.

The unique design of the Sky Power Solutions Residential system gives homeowners access to advanced concentrating PV (photovoltronic) produced electricity and is combined with sun tracking technology while taking only about 1/3 the space compared to standard solar PV panels and produces hot water as a byproduct of concentrating 500 suns to a focal point.

During SPI, preliminary negotiations/discussions were established with potential Distributors/Dealers totaling 32 entities from: Greece, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Africa, India, the Caribbean and more than half of the US. "We are simply overwhelmed by the acceptance and response to our presence at SPI. Being the only company providing an advanced engineered parabolic dish, concentrating solar system exclusively for residential application is potentially game changing for the residential solar market," says Rich Ralston, Public Relations and Media Manager for Sky Power Solutions.

Solar Power International (SPI) is North America's largest, most comprehensive solar power trade show and conference. This annual, business-to-business event was the first of its kind in North America and grows bigger and better every year. Nearly 24,000 professionals from 125+ countries attend. With one out of five attendees coming from outside the United States, SPI is truly a global event. In 2011, over 1,200 companies from all vertical markets in the solar power spectrum exhibited in a space of more than 1 million gross square feet.

The Sky Power Solutions residential solar power station will have the ability to reduce the average user's monthly electric grid consumption by up to 30-40% with ZERO emissions and a ZERO carbon footprint; using only the power of the Sun. Visually appealing, the Sky Power Solutions system can easily be installed in most backyards taking less than one third of the space of conventional Solar panels. The entry level price point for a Sky Power Solutions-Concentrated Solar electric system is estimated to be $5,000 at release. Many financial incentives are available which reduces the user's actual costs. Multiple units can be combined for increased capacity.

Electric consumption in the United States is increasing at a rate that will outpace the anticipated expansion of the US Electric Grid's capacity and Sky Power Solutions has identified this and is poised for expansion into the Residential Electric Power Generation market to allow end users to generate and return 30-40% of their electric usage back to the grid using "Net-Metering" and the Sky Power System.

Sky Power Solutions, the exclusive provider of advanced Lithium Ion battery technology to Li-ion Motors Corp. for use in their all electric, zero emission automobiles has determined the growth in the consumer acceptance of all electric cars will place an increased burden on the US Electric Grid at the same time growth in capacity of electrical capacity is expected to decline. Sky Power Solutions is moving to meet this demand, at the same time, lowering the grid consumption of the users of the Residential Solar Generation System and actually augmenting the Electric Grid by producing and sending electricity from the residential users surplus capacity into the grid, therefore causing the user's electric meter to run backwards, not only reducing the electric bill, but more importantly adding needed power to a stressed grid for the benefit of all.