JinkoSolar Recognized for High Performance Modules by PHOTON Laboratory Module Test

SHANGHAI, Nov. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. ("JinkoSolar" or "the Company") (NYSE: JKS), a fast-growing, vertically integrated solar power product manufacturer based in China, today announced that two types of JinkoSolar monocrystalline modules have been recognized for high yield by PHOTON Lab's outdoor field test. The field test measures each module's yield in order to determine the exact amount of kilowatt-hours per kilowatt of installed power that flow from the PV system to the inverter.

Two types of JinkoSolar modules were among the 100 plus modules included in the field test. One JinkoSolar module achieved a chart-topping monthly yield of 126.9 kWh/kW and the other yielded 123.8 kWh/kW, ranking them both amongst the top of all modules measured in the study.

PHOTON Lab conducts its annual module field test on a piece of property in Germany that is free from shadowing. Two to four units of each module type are represented in the test to prevent potential faulty modules that can distort test results. PHOTON Lab has developed its own fully automated electronics to perform the measurements at each module's output to assure accuracy. The test operates under real-world conditions, storing module and weather data to ensure precise correlation.

"PHOTON's outdoor field test has demonstrated that JinkoSolar modules are amongst the highest yield modules in the market," said Kangping Chen, CEO of JinkoSolar. "We are pleased to hear that our modules performed well in this rigorous test, and we look forward to continuing to work with PHOTON Laboratory in validating the quality of future Jinko products."

About JinkoSolar

JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE: JKS) is a fast-growing, vertically integrated solar power product manufacturer with cost efficient operations based in Jiangxi Province and Zhejiang Province in China and sales and marketing offices in Shanghai, China, Munich, Germany, San Francisco, U.S., Bologna, Italy, Montpellier, France and Zug, Switzerland. JinkoSolar has built a vertically integrated solar product value chain with an integrated annual capacity of approximately 1.2 GW each for silicon ingots, wafers, solar cells and solar modules as of September 30, 2011. JinkoSolar distributes its photovoltaic products to a diversified customer base in the global PV market; including Italy, Germany, Belgium, Spain, the United States, France, Eastern Europe, China and other countries and regions.

Pace Global & Suntricity Introduce the Next Generation of Solar Technology to the Market

FAIRFAX, Va. and LAS VEGAS, Nov. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Suntricity Corp. ("Suntricity") has retained Pace Global Energy Services, LLC ("Pace Global") and Pace Financial Services, LLC to provide financial and commercialization services.

Pace Global's Business Development Agency agreement focuses on assisting Suntricity in establishing Manufacturing and Supply Agreements through strategic partnerships, joint ventures, licensing, mergers, and related transactions.

Pace Financial Services will provide Suntricity with financial structuring and advisory services.

The growing market for solar energy is driven by reducing costs, improving efficiencies, and declining incentives. Suntricity's reactive inks enable the fabrication of solar cells through well-established high speed printing methodologies that replace slow, expensive vapor-deposition fabrication techniques. Suntricity is well positioned to emerge as a technology leader in the solar arena. Suntricity's and Pace Global's combined technical, market, and financial acumen are expected to accelerate Suntricity's commercialization and create a lasting partnership.

Timothy F. Sutherland, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Pace Global, stated, "The combined capabilities of the firms and rigorous process & procedures for validating the technology and moving to scalable production with strong partners has us very optimistic about the potential market dominance of the Suntricity technology."

William Brownrigg, Chief Executive Officer of Suntricity, added, "Suntricity brings a very strong technical and manufacturing team to launch its reactive ink technology and sees Pace Global as the ideal business partner both for capitalization and commercialization given Pace Global's impressive knowledge, depth of resources, and market standing among strategic and financial participants."

About Pace Global

Pace Global is a leading energy consulting and management company. We combine deep industry knowledge with commercial, technical, financial, and regulatory expertise to help organizations maximize value and manage risk in today's complex energy and environmental markets. For more than 35 years and in over 60 countries, we have worked closely with our clients to define strategies and implement solutions. We offer a unique, integrated perspective our clients have come to trust, which we call the Power of Integration. For more information, please visit our website, http://www.paceglobal.com.

About Suntricity Corporation

Suntricity's Reactive Ink methods create significant cost reduction opportunities throughout the transformation process from raw materials to completed devices. Even post-panel BOS costs can be improved given the "form factor flexibilities" made possible by Suntricity's printed solution. For more information, visit http://www.suntricitycells.com.

ATK Awarded $20 Million UltraFlex™ Solar Array Contract from Orbital

ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- ATK (NYSE: ATK) was awarded a $20 million contract by Orbital Sciences Corporation (NYSE: ORB) to provide its UltraFlex™ solar arrays to power Orbital's enhanced Cygnus™ cargo logistics space vehicle, which is being utilized under NASA's Commercial Resupply System contract.

The disk-shaped UltraFlex solar arrays measure more than 11 feet in diameter and are made of ultra-lightweight materials that provide high strength and stiffness as well as compact stowage volume. With the same power but at a significantly reduced mass from the original arrays, the UltraFlex solar arrays will contribute to an overall increased payload capability of the enhanced Cygnus vehicle to provide resupply services to the International Space Station.  "Providing performance and weight savings is critical for spacecraft providers," said David Shanahan, vice president and general manager, ATK Space Structures & Components. "UltraFlex solar arrays provide the highest power for the lowest mass, enabling larger payloads and ensuring the success of more taxing missions."

Smaller 6-foot diameter versions of these disk-shaped solar arrays were used to power NASA's Phoenix Lander, which had its mission extended three times due in part to the exceptional performance of the solar arrays. Larger UltraFlex solar arrays—measuring nearly 20 feet in diameter—will be deployed on NASA's Multi Purpose Crew Vehicle.  

The enhanced Cygnus spacecraft incorporates a larger pressurized cargo module that can carry up to 2700 kg of cargo to the ISS.  The spacecraft's pressurized cargo module will carry crew supplies, spares and scientific experiments.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Forward-looking Statement
Certain information discussed in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Although ATK believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved. Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Among those factors are: the challenges of developing new launch vehicles; changes in governmental spending, budgetary policies and product sourcing strategies; the company's competitive environment; the terms and timing of awards and contracts; and economic conditions. ATK undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. For further information on factors that could impact ATK, and statements contained herein, please refer to ATK's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Canadian Solar Powers the City of Cavriglia with Photovoltaic Energy

MILAN, Nov. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, has announced the provision of 12,465 high-performing photovoltaic modules for a ground-mount solar power plant installed on a former mining site in the Italian city of Cavriglia (Arezzo).

The 10 MW plant, which has been operational since October contains over 40,000 modules including Canadian Solar's CS6P-P series, will reduce CO2 emissions by 5,531,000 kg. Constructed by Canadian Solar partner Coop Cellini Impianti Tecnologici, a highly competitive company known for their expertise and reliability in the renewable energy sector, installed the solar farm in the area of a former mining depot in the Tuscan province. It is connected to the local power grid and will be able to provide enough clean energy to serve the needs of some 7,000 homes.

In order to minimize its environmental impact, the plant's design includes a number of features that enable the plant to blend in with its surroundings, such as a natural hedge all around the plant and trees that act as a natural screen. The project also includes some 1,122 meters of bike trails adjacent to the photovoltaic plant as an extension to the existing system of trails available both to the public and for organized sporting events. With the construction of this "green" plant, many issues related to water run-off have also been resolved, thereby contributing to the safety of the main escarpment.

In terms of safety, the photovoltaic plant is equipped with a remote monitoring system in order to measure and display the key operational data and to respond to any alarms or malfunctions in a timely manner.

"We are truly proud to be working with Canadian Solar because they are a reliable partner that provides high-performance products suited to large-scale installations such as this," said Paolo Tita, project manager for Coop Cellini Impianti Tecnologici. "Moreover, Canadian Solar has an excellent reputation worldwide, and this certainly contributes to the success of our projects."

"The installation of a solar plant such as this, one which is able to meet the energy needs of an entire town, is a clear example of how the power industry is going to evolve in the years to come. The system being used in Cavriglia is a model that can be followed in other Italian towns, so as to achieve the same levels of efficiency seen elsewhere in Europe, where at least 30% of the power generated comes from renewable sources," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar.

CS6P: efficiency, reliability and security

The CS6P standard module, a robust solar module with 60 monocrystalline or polycrystalline cells. These modules can be used for on-grid solar applications. Theirs meticulous design and production techniques ensure a high-yield, long-term performance for every module produced. Also the rigorous quality control and in-house testing facilities guarantee Canadian Solar's modules meet the highest quality standards possible.

The CS6P module series manufactured by Canadian Solar is on top of the PV USA (or PTC) tests achieving highest ratings. PTC tests are universally accepted and recognised as the best way of measuring the performance and electricity generated by a module under everyday conditions.

Canadian Solar's warranty now provides a linear performance guarantee for the Company's PV module power output over a 25-year period and covers workmanship and material defects to 10 years. Product warranty will backed by 25-year and by non-cancelable insurance policy.

For more information about Canadian Solar, visit their web site at www.canadiansolar.com.

Coop Cellini Impianti Tecnologici

With today's technological advances, installations are a vital factor in the design, construction and management of buildings. Even the most prestigious building will have no life without energy coming into it. So here at Cellini, we have adopted the slogan "ENERGIA VITALE" ("vital energy"), a term that identifies the core values of our company, and sums up our mission, in a sector where technology changes on a regular basis. Cooperativa Cellini has been operating in the plant engineering sector for over 30 years. We currently employ nearly 100 people. Our main headquarters are in Prato, in Tuscany, with a branch in Turin and agents nationwide throughout Italy. Our dedication to continuous progress is fuelled by closely studying market trends and technologies. At Cellini, we are now leveraging the field of energy production from renewable sources, while the economic downturn over the last two years has led the company to concentrate on research, in order to develop new products/services. The Cellini name has enjoyed significant visibility and a good share in the renewable energy sector, in which we have invested heavily, with a number of significant installations in the photovoltaic field, and we are now moving into fields such as small wind turbines, biomass, hydroelectric and cogeneration. Cellini's corporate vision is to grow and develop, particularly when it comes to our skills, in the conviction that we can achieve even better results year upon year, without forgetting our heartfelt social commitments. Since its inception, Cellini has won several public procurement contracts, and, in recent years we have enjoyed an increasingly high profile in project finance tenders, enabling us to win a number of construction and management concessions. With our proven track record, based on the solid foundations of our know-how, built up over years of research and development, and of managing resources and facilities, our customers regard the name Cellini as a rock-solid guarantee on their investment.

About Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ) is one of the world's largest solar companies. As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingots, wafers, solar cells, solar modules and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. For more information, visit www.canadiansolar.com.

U.S.-China Trade Dispute Could Stall Arizona's Solar Progress

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Coalition for Affordable Solar Energy (CASE) and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) are concerned that jobs will be lost in Arizona due to SolarWorld's anti-trade petition.

Arizona is the third-largest employer in solar-related fields in America with nearly 5,000 jobs across 980 solar establishments in the state, according to the National Solar Jobs Census for 2011 report released by The Solar Foundation. Nationally, the solar industry is expected to add about 37,000 jobs by 2013, with many anticipated to be created in Arizona. SolarWorld's trade complaint could put these jobs in jeopardy.

"Arizona jobs are at stake in the brewing solar trade war between the U.S. and China. As with most trade wars and protectionism, we stand to lose much more than we could gain – in this case, jobs for Arizonans and Americans," said Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC).

GPEC has worked tirelessly to attract solar-related businesses to expand or relocate to Arizona and create high quality jobs for Arizonans. The Greater Phoenix region is now home to leading global PV manufacturers such as Suntech and First Solar, as well as supply-chain leaders like Power-One, Rioglass, Maxwell Technologies, Gestamp Solar Steel and six others. The region also represents thousands of downstream industry jobs in sales, marketing, logistics, construction and engineering. Arizona Governor Jan Brewer also completed a successful trip to China in September 2011 to continue attracting foreign investment opportunities that would benefit Arizona workers and the state's solar industry.

"The U.S. is a net exporter of solar products to China and the world," continued Broome. "At the end of the day, free trade is good for the solar industry, it's good for Arizona jobs, and it's good for the U.S. economy. We encourage policymakers to reach a decent resolution that protects our U.S. interests without sacrificing the opportunities provided by a free trade alliance with China."

In October 2010, Suntech opened a 117,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Goodyear, Arizona. With more than 100 well-trained workers, the facility is now operating 24 hours per day and producing nearly 50MW of solar panels per year. Suntech was planning to grow the facility to 120MW; however, the imposition of trade barriers would undermine the facility's continued growth.

"Trade barriers would hurt the economics of our Arizona manufacturing operations," said Polly Shaw, Director of External Relations for Suntech America, a member of CASE. "Global supply chains have been critical to driving down the cost of solar manufacturing, and Suntech depends heavily on companies and operations in countries around the world, including both the U.S. and China. The U.S. has been a major beneficiary of solar trade, as a net exporter of solar products to China by more than US$250 million and the world by nearly US$2 billion. In fact, Suntech has been a net consumer of solar products in the U.S. for almost a decade."

The Coalition for Affordable Solar Energy (CASE) was formed in response to an anti-trade action filed by Germany-based SolarWorld with the U.S. government that threatens the entire U.S. solar industry. CASE represents more than 100 leading U.S. solar companies that represent more than 10,000 jobs in the U.S. solar industry, or roughly 10% of the industry's total workforce, and the coalition is quickly growing. The Coalition is committed to building a domestic solar industry, promoting innovation, and making solar an affordable option for all Americans.

To learn more about the Coalition for Affordable Solar Energy (CASE), please visit our website: www.coalition4affordablesolar.org.

Carmanah Launches the New EG40 and EG80: Reliable Solar LED Outdoor Lights Designed for Developing Markets

VICTORIA, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carmanah Technologies (TSX: CMH) is pleased to announce the launch of the EG40 and EG80 solar LED outdoor lighting systems, the latest generation of reliable and cost-effective solar LED lighting products specifically designed for developing regions of the world. The EG40 and EG80 feature adaptive lighting capabilities and a simple top-of-pole design that allows the Series to deliver leading dollar per kilo-lumen output in the 1000-8500 lumen range. Leveraging award-winning design elements of the company’s EverGEN™ 1700 and 1500-series products, the EG40 and EG80 systems offer superior performance and features at a value price. The introduction of the EG40 and EG80 systems expands Carmanah’s existing outdoor solar lighting portfolio, allowing the company to service cost-sensitive markets with robust products that maintain market leading performance.

Bruce Cousins, CEO of Carmanah, commented, “The new EG40 and EG80 systems address the need for a reliable cost-effective outdoor lighting solution for markets with developing infrastructure where standalone solar lighting can offer a cost effective alternative to traditional AC lighting systems. We expect the new EG40 and EG80, with all of its major features, to be well received by governments, private industry and contractors in this market.”

The top-of-pole integrated design of the EG40 and EG80 allows for an easy and rapid installation as well as protection against vandalism. The EG40 and EG80 design is wind load rated to 241 kph (150 mph) with 3 second gusts, protecting the system from extreme weather such as hurricane-level winds. Engineered to prevent theft and vandalism, the EG40 and EG80 are ideal for deployment in public and private roadways and area lighting applications.

The EG40 and EG80 engines power high-efficiency LED luminaires that are available in standard IES distribution types II, III, IV, V, and flood. Both systems feature a 3-year limited warranty.

Outperforming similar priced competing solar outdoor lighting systems, the EG40 and EG80 solar outdoor lighting systems are available immediately. For more information, visit www.carmanah.com or call 1-877-722-8877.

Solar Nation® Installs Solar-Electric System for Romark Logistics

HAZLE TOWNSHIP, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Nation has announced the commissioning of a solar-electric system on Romark Logistics’ storage warehouse in Hazle Township, Pennsylvania. The system was commissioned by Romark as part of the company’s overall sustainability initiative.
 
Romark’s Hazle Township solar-electric system was designed, engineered, and built by Solar Nation. The 312,000 square foot rooftop array is comprised of 8,512 SolarWorld® 235 watt polycrystalline solar panels, manufactured in the U.S. In addition to the SolarWorld panels, the system incorporates four SMA America inverters and a Draker Laboratories web-based monitoring system.

The installation of the Hazle Township solar-electric system, financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Financing Authority, is another example of Romark Logistics’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship. Clean, renewable energy generated by the system will meet 34 percent of Romark Logistics’ electricity needs at the warehouse, providing immediate savings for the company. It is estimated that the solar-electric system will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1520 metric tons annually—the equivalent CO2 offset of planting approximately 38,981 trees or annual greenhouse gas emissions from 298 passenger vehicles.

“Romark benefits greatly from each solar-electric system we install,” said Ryan Ziegler, Director of Facilities Management at Romark Logistics. “Not only is solar the right thing to do for the environment, it is also a smart financial decision for our business. By offsetting 34 percent of our energy usage, we save money, which can be invested in the company and its facilities. It is a win-win.”

“Solar Nation is honored to have been selected by Romark and to have had the opportunity to design, engineer, and build their rooftop solar-electric system,” said Dan Drummond, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Nation. “We are proud to work with a company that continually finds better ways to serve its customers and its community and who sets the standard for environmental stewardship at locations across the country.”

SolarCity and Bank of America Merrill Lynch Move Forward With Project SolarStrong, Expected to Build More Than $1 Billion in Solar Projects

SAN MATEO, Calif., & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolarCity and Bank of America Merrill Lynch today announced that they have agreed to terms on financing for SolarStrong, SolarCity’s ambitious five-year plan to build more than $1 billion in solar power projects for privatized U.S. military housing communities across the country. As part of the project, SolarCity plans to partner with the country’s leading privatized military housing developers to install, own and operate rooftop solar installations and provide solar electricity at a lower cost than utility power. SolarStrong is ultimately expected to create up to 300 megawatts of solar generation capacity that could provide power to as many as 120,0001 military housing units. SolarStrong would be the largest residential solar photovoltaic project in American history.
 
“This project demonstrates the long term viability of large-scale, distributed solar generation,” said Jonathan Plowe, head of New Energy and Infrastructure Solutions at BofA Merrill. “We are excited to see the project through with SolarCity and extend our expertise and financing capabilities to propel residential solar to the next level.”

Private equity firm U.S. Renewables Group (USRG) served as financial advisor for SolarStrong. When SolarCity began to plan SolarStrong in mid-2010, the company did not believe it could secure financing for a project of such a scope without a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). SolarCity and USRG began the loan guarantee application process under DOE’s Section 1705 loan guarantee program in October 2010, and BofA Merrill subsequently joined the application as lender. The DOE announced a conditional commitment of a partial loan guarantee for SolarStrong on Sept. 7, 2011, but the parties were unable to finalize the loan before the Sept. 30 program deadline. SolarCity and BofA Merrill continued to work to close SolarStrong without the loan guarantee.

“BofA Merrill never wavered when the loan guarantee wasn’t finalized and worked with us to create a financing structure that works without it,” said Lyndon Rive, SolarCity’s chief executive officer. “SolarStrong makes affordable clean energy available on a much greater scale. This is uncharted territory for residential solar. The fact that SolarStrong can move forward without a federal loan guarantee is a clear indication that long-term incentives such as the investment tax credit are working.”

SolarCity expects SolarStrong to create thousands of full-time and temporary jobs. The company hopes to provide as many of those jobs as possible to U.S. veterans and military family members, which have been among those hardest hit by the economic downturn. SolarCity has added more than 1,200 new, full-time workers since the recession began in December 20072; creating more than one new job per workday in that timeframe.

"This is a groundbreaking transaction that represents a key milestone for the U.S. solar industry," said Tim Newell, managing director for USRG Renewable Finance. "We’re proud to be part of this project that will invest in military communities across the United States.”

The SolarStrong project will allow privatized military housing developers to save money on energy costs that can be reallocated toward quality-of-life improvements and enhanced services for military families. SolarStrong will also help the Department of Defense — the single-largest energy consumer in the U.S. — secure more of its energy needs from renewable sources operated in parallel with the utility grid.

Munro Distributing Now Offers SolarWorld Sunmodule™ Solar Panels

RAYNHAM, Mass.--(Solar Energy News)--Munro Distributing Company Inc., a leading supplier of clean energy solutions and electrical supplies, announced the launch of a new product line and the immediate availability of U.S.-manufactured SolarWorld Sunmodule™ solar panels. Munro’s solar division, which facilitates residential and commercial solar electric and thermal systems, has leveraged its expertise and market presence to form a strategic distribution alliance with SolarWorld, the largest and most experienced U.S. solar manufacturer.
   
“Partnering with SolarWorld is consistent with our goal to assist customers in choosing the best components for their projects in order to minimize costs, while ensuring maximum system production,” said Glenn Maltais, Vice President Market Development and Sustainability. “By promoting American- made modules as an integral part of our product line, we are doing our part to support the US solar manufacturing market.”

Sunmodules™ are available in both mono-and polycrystalline in a wide range of sizes, making them suitable for all applications – from a residential rooftop to a large-scale facility. With plus sorting, SolarWorld only delivers modules that are factory-tested to meet or exceed their name plate power rating - even after initial light-induced degradation. Now available at Munro’s locations throughout New England, Sunmodules™ come with a 25-year linear performance guarantee and a 10-year product workmanship warranty.

“This partnership joins SolarWorld’s 35-plus years of solar-manufacturing experience with Munro’s decades of expertise supplying electrical products in New England,” said Kevin Kilkelly, president of SolarWorld Americas. “Key distribution partners, like Munro, offer our installers access to local knowledge and relationships along with SolarWorld’s trusted, American-made product.”

Munro’s renewable energy professionals are available to assist novice and experienced solar patrons through value-add services designed to meet a wide range of needs. Munro provides contractors with a host of services relating to system design, installation, product selection, federal grants, state rebates and energy efficiency. For more information, visit munrodistributing.com.

Trinity Solar Named the 4th Fastest Growing Company in New Jersey

FREEHOLD, N.J., Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On November 14, 2011, NJBIZ named Trinity Solar as New Jersey's 4th fastest growing company.  Every year, NJBIZ holds an awards dinner and ceremony honoring New Jersey's fifty fastest growing companies that contribute to the state's economic growth and stability.

To qualify for this nomination, companies must have achieved revenues of at least $500,000 within the last three years and growth in revenue from fiscal year 2007 to 2010.   Both dollar and percentage increases were taken into consideration. This year's rankings were announced at the awards dinner and ceremony on Monday, November 14, 2011 at the Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset, New Jersey.

Trinity Solar's growth can be credited to the vision of management, the dedication of the staff, and the maintenance of a strong brand. Trinity is founded on the strong moral principles of the owners, and from the beginning, Trinity has been committed to doing what is right. In 2004, the owners saw a barely budding solar market in New Jersey as the perfect opportunity to help local homeowners save money on their electric bills, support a sustainable energy source, and do something great for the environment. In subsequent years, Trinity entered the commercial sector to become a major player in that arena. In fact, Trinity has installed one of the largest roof-mounted solar systems ever to be installed in the United States. As the leading provider in the state, Trinity has helped to define and grow the New Jersey solar market, which is now the second largest solar market in the nation.

In its 17th year of operation, Trinity Solar is proud to be established and still gaining speed. Trinity has also been ranked as one of the top privately-owned companies in New Jersey and the largest green energy company. This is exactly what New Jersey needs—home grown companies that benefit the local economy and bring prestige to our state industries.

For more information about the NJBIZ Fifty Fastest Growing Companies awards program or to view the full list of award winners, please visit www.njbiz.com/events.

About Trinity Solar:

Trinity Solar began as a Freehold-based, family-owned HVAC company in 1994, with deep New Jersey roots.  In 2004, Trinity transitioned toward installing solar electric systems for homeowners and businesses.  The organization now employs over 400 personnel serving over 18,000 energy-related clients, with more than 3,000 solar electric systems operating on the East Coast.  Trinity is an industry leader and has received state and national recognition for its achievements in the energy industry.  For more information about Trinity Solar visit www.Trinity-Solar.com.

MiaSole Strengthens Senior Leadership Appoints John Carrington as CEO and Bob Baker as President

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MiaSole, the leading manufacturer of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, today announced the appointment of two seasoned executives to lead the company into its next phase of growth. John Carrington assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, and Bob Baker continues as President of the company.

Carrington previously served as executive vice president of global marketing and business development at First Solar, where he directed the company's global sales, marketing, and product management initiatives, and supported its targeted expansions in Europe, Middle East, Asia and the U.S. Prior to this, he spent 16 years at General Electric in a variety of global leadership roles, including four years in Japan running the Asian marketing and business development team.

Baker is a 32-year Intel veteran who brings deep experience across technology development, manufacturing, business and management. While at Intel, Baker managed the Technology and Manufacturing Group and also grew its NAND and SSD business to a profitable $1B+.

"MiaSole is entering into an important time in its evolution," said Martin Lagod, Managing Director and co-founder of Firelake Capital Management, on behalf of the MiaSole board of directors. "Both John and Bob bring a wealth of experience and the right combination of skills. Their joining speaks volumes to the potential opportunities that we see in the solar market."

This latest addition to the company's management leadership is part of MiaSole's strategy to scale its capacity and continue building a sustainable and scalable business through innovation and manufacturing improvements. MiaSole recently announced a new volume production milestone at 13% module efficiency, and are on track to meet their ambitious cost per watt goals. The company also recently announced the production of its 50 millionth cell.  This underscores the viability of MiaSole's distinctive manufacturing process which has enabled the production of low cost, high efficiency, flexible solar cells at volume scale.

Dr. Joseph Laia will step down as CEO to pursue other interests. Under Laia's leadership, MiaSole doubled its module efficiency, and today MiaSole CIGS panels are superior to leading thin film and approaching c-Si performance.  

"We thank Joe for his contributions to MiaSole and look forward to continuing our path to global leadership," said Lagod.

About MiaSole
MiaSole is a pioneer and leading developer of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, one of the lowest-cost, highest efficiency solar panels in the world. MiaSole's primary mission is to advance the extraordinary potential for harnessing solar power as a competitive, sustainable energy source. MiaSole operates its manufacturing facilities in California.

Solar Technology Expert Desmond Wheatley Invited by the Solar Electric Power Association to Describe Solar Tree® Structure Distributed Energy to the Key Utility, Government and Solar Trade Groups in California

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Desmond Wheatley, President and CEO Envision Solar International, Inc., (www.envisionsolar.com)  (OTCBB: EVSI)) a leading sustainable infrastructure product designer and developer was invited to describe his company's unique Solar Tree® distributed energy technology to key utility, government and solar industry executives.   Invited as an industry expert by the Solar Electric Power Association and San Diego Gas & Electric, Mr. Wheatley presented his company's Solar Tree® technology – a unique and sustainable approach to distributed electricity generation through architecturally accretive solar shaded parking projects.

Mr. Wheatley's presentation took place at SDG&E's Energy Innovation Center where Envision is building a grove of Solar Trees®.

Desmond Wheatley, President and CEO of Envision Solar

Desmond Wheatley, President and CEO of Envision Solar stated: "This presentation to the key utility, government and solar trade groups in California enabled us to explain the unique, distributed energy technology of our Solar Tree® structures. Solar Trees® can be installed in any location and include EnvisionTrak™, our proprietary tracking solution that allows us to always get the most from the sun as well as CleanCharge™ our column integrated Electric Vehicle charging. We are very happy to engage with utilities as customers and our scalable solution is very well suited to their requirements."

Envision's Solar Trees – An architect's vision of beautiful, functional design and clean, solar energy

Visionary environmental architect Robert Noble, AIA, LEED AP founded Envision Solar in 2006.  Based in San Diego, California, Envision Solar differentiates itself from the market with its offering of advanced, high quality solar with beautiful and iconic design. Their Solar Tree® structure, works as a billboard for a company's green credentials while producing clean energy and improving the aesthetics of any parking lot. The company has won numerous awards for their Solar Tree® structure, with it becoming the world's most recognized image for solar shade structures. Many businesses today want to make a "green statement" to their customers and employees with highly visible and beautiful solar technology.

Morgan Solar Inc. Closes B Round at USD $28.8 Million, with USD $9.8 Million Investment From Enbridge Inc.

TORONTO, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - November 29, 2011 - Morgan Solar Inc. announced today it has secured a USD $9.8 million (CAD $10 million) investment from Enbridge Inc., a North American leader in oil and natural gas delivery with expanding interests in renewable energy generation. In March 2011, Morgan Solar set out to raise between USD $20 to $25 million. The Enbridge investment represents an oversubscription of the round to a total of USD $28.8 million.

Morgan Solar is a Toronto-based company manufacturing the Sun Simba™, a turnkey, rapidly deployed solar energy generation solution. The Sun Simba™ is fully integrated with the company's lightweight, self-ballasted Savanna™ tracker, and easily scaled from 10-kilowatt to multi-megawatt installations. The fundamental innovation behind the Sun Simba™ is the patented Light-guide Solar Optic, which enables an ultra low-profile, lightweight Concentrated Photovoltaic system that costs less to build, ship, deploy, and maintain than competing technologies. In areas with moderate to high direct sunlight, the Sun Simba™ will offer a lower Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) than solar technologies on the market today, or known to be under development.

Morgan Solar's President and Co-Founder John Paul Morgan said of the raise, "Enbridge's investment is recognition of the improved value proposition offered by Morgan Solar's Sun Simba™ - an advanced solar technology with the potential to significantly boost project returns for companies like Enbridge, which are building a portfolio of renewable energy generation assets."

Enbridge is growing its solar power business. The company currently owns three solar facilities that together have the capacity to generate about 100 MW of electricity. Among Enbridge's solar facilities is the 80 MW Sarnia Solar Project, which is one of the largest operating photovoltaic facilities in the world.

"While Enbridge is now well established as a generator of solar electricity, our investment in Morgan Solar is our first investment in solar technology," said Chuck Szmurlo, Enbridge's Vice President, Alternative & Emerging Energy.  "We've been excited for a long time about the potential for solar electricity, and we're now pleased to help advance innovative ideas that will help reduce costs and enable the increasingly economic deployment of this emissions-free energy source.  We look forward to playing a role in Morgan Solar's growth."

The close of this Round brings Morgan Solar's total private investments to date to USD $38 million. The B Round also included reinvestments from strategic investors Iberdrola S.A., the world leader in installed new renewable energy generation capacity, with 13.5 gigawatts of wind, solar, and hydro worldwide, and Nypro Inc., a global contract manufacturer specializing in precision injection molding for numerous Fortune 500 companies. Nypro is Morgan Solar's partner in manufacturing the Sun Simba™ optical assembly.  The round also saw new investments from The Frost Group, a private investment firm based in Miami, Florida, and a Canadian private investment fund.

Morgan Solar will use the funds to expand the manufacturing capacity for the Sun Simba™, to invest in sales development, and to continue to develop and expand its portfolio of next generation solar technologies.

SunPower CEO Tom Werner to Speak at Robert W. Baird & Co. Clean Technology Conference 2011

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWR), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced that its CEO, Tom Werner, will speak at the Robert W. Baird & Co. Clean Technology Conference 2011 on Wednesday, November 30 at 8:30 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.

The event is being held at the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco, and Werner's talk will be webcast live at http://investors.sunpowercorp.com/events.cfm.

About SunPower

SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWR) designs, manufactures and delivers the highest efficiency, highest reliability solar panels and systems available today. Residential, business, government and utility customers rely on the company's quarter century of experience and guaranteed performance to provide maximum return on investment throughout the life of the solar system.  Headquartered in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia.  For more information, visit www.sunpowercorp.com.

Canadian Solar and saferay Implement 8.5 MW Solar Power Plant in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany

MUNICH, Germany, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar, (the "Company," "we" or "Canadian Solar") (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, today announced that it has supplied solar modules for an 8.5 MW power plant in Lindenhof near Neubrandenburg in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Berlin-based saferay expects to complete the project next month.

With this cooperation to build the Lindenhof solar power plant Canadian Solar further extends its successful collaboration with project company saferay. The PV system uses a total of 36,000 CS6P-P solar modules manufactured by Canadian Solar. These modules are particularly powerful with high quality, reliability and good energy yield. "We continue to rely on Canadian Solar modules in our projects due to their outstanding quality and performance, and excellent customer service. This makes Canadian Solar a strong partner for us," said Dr. Marko Schulz, managing director of saferay. "Thanks to favorable weather conditions, we are on track to complete the solar park installation so the power plant will be turnkey ready in December. So far, we have completed 5.5 MW."

Successful partnership for large-scale projects

The solar park is the second large-scale project delivered by Canadian Solar and project development company saferay. In September 2011, saferay completed the Senftenberg II/III 78 MW partial complex in Brandenburg, part of the world's largest solar power plant (166 MW) using Canadian Solar modules. "This is a showcase partnership for us, where we are able to work with a strong local partner on large scale projects in a strategic geographic market. We look forward to continuing to work with saferay in the future and to providing the high efficiency, high performance modules essential for any successful project," said Dr Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "The project makes an important contribution toward the development of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Solar energy generates green energy and is a driver for the creation of qualified jobs in German cities and communities. Wherever PV plants are built, the local economy will also benefit."

About saferay

Berlin, Germany-based saferay is a leader in the field of efficient and fast installations of large-scale photovoltaic power plants. Saferay realizes and finances plants primarily for its own asset base, in order to shape future energy concepts in the world's leading energy markets. The company has experience from over 350 MW installed PV capacity. For more information, visit www.safe-ray.com.

About Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ) is one of the world's largest solar companies. As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingots, wafers, solar cells, solar modules and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. For more information, visit www.canadiansolar.com.

French Utility Selects SunPower High Efficiency Solar Panels for 3.8-Megawatt Solar Power Plant in Southeastern France

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWR), today announced that it has delivered 12,000 high-efficiency SunPower™ E19 / 320 solar panels to La Compagnie du Vent, a subsidiary of French utility giant GDF SUEZ Group.  Estimated for completion in the summer of 2012, the 3.8-megawatt dc (MW) power plant will be La Compagnie du Vent's largest ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) installation to date. The solar power plant is expected to generate approximately 6,270,000 kilowatt-hours of power each year, which represents the electricity consumption of approximately 3,500 persons and, according to RTE 2011, carbon offset of approximately 5,000 tons per year.

"SunPower is delighted to partner with La Compagnie du Vent to provide them our high-efficiency solar panels, the most reliable on the market today," said Howard Wenger, SunPower president, regions. "We are confident that, with SunPower's proven performance, La Compagnie du Vent will experience exceptional energy output and achieve robust return on investment over the 25-year minimum life of the solar panels."

"La Compagnie du Vent, GDF SUEZ Group has followed SunPower and its unrivalled high efficiency PV technology for the past several years," said Gilles Leandro, La Compagnie du Vent's PV development director. "We are impressed with the company's highest efficiency solar panels, which maximize capacity on space-constrained areas; a key driver for our choice of this PV technology."

French pioneer of wind energy, La Compagnie du Vent, is considered a major player in renewable energy due to its diversification in the production of solar electricity.  Today, wind farms and PV power plants in operation and under construction by La Compagnie du Vent represent a total of approximately 280 MW dc.

MyGenflex, KYOCERA’s Latest Solar Energy Kit, Offers Increased Flexibility and System Monitoring for Optimal Efficiency

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Solar, Inc. announced that its MyGen Kits — all-inclusive kits for residential and light commercial solar energy installations — have expanded to include MyGenflex. This latest addition offers increased versatility for installation, expansion and monitoring services, featuring Kyocera’s premier KD240 watt solar modules, and new M215 microinverters from Enphase Energy.

The MyGenflex kit is Enphase Energized™ with high efficiency M215 microinverters from Enphase, enabling a scalable solar system by converting direct current (DC) produced by solar modules into alternating current (AC) from each individual module in an array. This allows owners the flexibility to add to their solar energy system as needed. Further enhancing the MyGenflex system is the Enlighten monitoring and analysis software from Enphase, which monitors each microinverter and solar module in the system. Performance information is available via the web as part of a monitoring solution that allows owners and installers to track system performance. “A Kyocera Enphase Energized solution not only enables a flexible, high-performance solar energy system that is expandable and intelligent, it is also backed by the same dependable support that Enphase customers swear by,” said Bill Rossi, chief marketing officer of Enphase Energy.

Kyocera’s current MyGen line is already recognized as a comprehensive, convenient way to integrate solar power — the pre-engineered systems include the modules, inverter, racking, monitoring, grounding, manual, drawings, and minor components needed to complete a grid-tied solar energy installation. MyGen “Made in America” kits, which qualify for participation in the ARRA “Buy America” Program, offer the benefits of U.S.-based manufacturing with the expertise that comes from Kyocera’s 37-year experience in the solar industry.

“Kyocera’s pre-engineered MyGen kits greatly simplify the task of installing a solar electric generating system on a home or business,” stated Steve Hill, president of Kyocera Solar, Inc. “These turn-key kits offer the reliability and industry-leading output of Kyocera’s modules, which have repeatedly achieved record-breaking cell efficiencies. With the innovative features of the Enphase Microinverter System, MyGenflex represents an ideal solution for those seeking to invest in solar energy for cost and environmental benefits.”

IKEA Plugs-in 3 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in San Diego, CA

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today officially plugged-in three Blink Pedestal electric vehicle charging stations at its San Diego, California store as part of its partnership with ECOtality, Inc. (NASDAQ:ECTY), a leader in clean electric transportation and storage technologies. This initiative represents the third such project for IKEA in the United States. Installation also is planned at six other IKEA stores in the Western U.S. To charge an EV at IKEA San Diego, drivers pull into a designated parking spot, swipe their Blink InCard (RFID card), plug the charger into the EV, and then shop and eat at their leisure in the IKEA store while the vehicle is charging. Drivers can get a Blink InCard at www.blinknetwork.com.

“Installing electric-vehicle charging stations at IKEA San Diego is another way to build upon our commitment to sustainability,” said Jim Tilley, IKEA San Diego store manager. “At IKEA, we believe in being a good business while doing good business. Making it easier for the public to drive EVs – with support from ECOtality and SDG&E – accomplishes both goals.”

ECOtality is the project manager of The EV Project, a public-private partnership funded in part by a federal stimulus grant from the U.S. Department of Energy made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to provide the necessary infrastructure to support the deployment of EVs. ECOtality is overseeing the installation of approximately 14,000 commercial and residential charging stations in 18 cities and major metropolitan areas in six states and the District of Columbia. IKEA stores are in four of those states.

“In order for EV infrastructure to be a success, it is essential that private enterprises take an active role,” stated Andy Hoskinson, San Diego Area Manager for ECOtality. “IKEA has shown true leadership by installing Blink charging stations at their locations, and making Blink chargers accessible to the public.”

IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and strives for its operations to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates all locations regularly for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers’ compact fluorescent bulbs. Additionally, IKEA is rolling out rooftop solar energy systems at many of its U.S. locations.

Located on 10 acres along I-8 between I-805 and I-15, the 198,000-s.f. IKEA San Diego opened in September 2000 and employs approximately 275 coworkers. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, IKEA San Diego presents 32 different room-settings, a model home interior, a supervised children’s play area, and a 150-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and Gravad Lax plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a ‘Children’s IKEA’ area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, preferred parking and play areas throughout the store. IKEA also completed installation of a solar energy system atop the store this summer.

IKEA strives to be ‘The Life Improvement Store,’ and since its 1943 founding in Sweden, has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 330 IKEA stores in 40 countries, including 38 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, go to IKEA-USA.com.

Carmanah Installs $1.4 Million Solar Rooftop Photovoltaic System for Ontario Refrigeration Facility

VICTORIA, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX: CMH) received a $1.4M CAD contract from a commercial refrigeration service provider in Southern Ontario and at present has designed, supplied and installed a nominal 250 kW solar rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system.

The solar array occupies roughly 30,000 square feet of the facility’s rooftop, and generates approximately 300,000 kWh of clean, carbon-free electricity annually—an amount equivalent to that consumed by 25 average Canadian households. The rooftop-mounted solar system generates revenue under the refrigeration service provider’s contract with the Ontario Power Authority’s Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) program.

The Ontario FIT program allows owners of an electrical service connection to sell energy from renewable resources, including solar, back into the electrical distribution grid. The Ontario Power Authority’s FIT program offers Ontario residents, businesses and government bodies or institutions a wide range of benefits, including job creation through provincial content requirements and distributed power generation. Distributed power generation helps to increase stability of the electrical infrastructure by decreasing the burden on large centralized generating facilities and reduces both long term environmental and health costs associated with non-renewable energy sources.

“Now that the FIT program is in place, it makes financial sense for Ontario corporations to explore renewable energy production as a way to reduce operating expenses, while also delivering on their own sustainability mandates. For a high energy user, with plenty of roof space such as a cold storage facility, a rooftop PV system is a smart long term investment.” said Carmanah CEO, Bruce Cousins.

Carmanah is one of the largest engineering, procurement and construction contractors of rooftop photovoltaic facilities in Canada with its Grid-Tie head office based in Toronto, Ontario. For more information on this or other solar grid-tie applications within Canada, contact Richard Wayte at rwayte@carmanah.com, or visit Carmanah at the Canadian Solar Industries Association Conference and Exposition December 5-6th, 2011.

IXYS Introduces New Generation of Overvoltage Protection Devices That Increase High Power System Reliability

BIEL, Switzerland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IXYS Corporation (NASDAQ: IXYS), a leader in power semiconductors and integrated circuits for power conversion and motion control applications, announced today the launch of its latest generation of overvoltage protection devices for greater power electronic system safety and reliability.
   
IXYS’ Break-Over Diodes (BOD) are traditionally embedded in the control/gate drive units in order to detect high voltage transients that can destroy a vast range of high cost, power semiconductor switches. BODs are designed to self trigger when a preset voltage level is reached thus allowing protection against voltage spikes or line faults which can destroy many different system components. These devices are also self resetting unlike a fuse or mechanical isolators which must be reset or manually replaced prior to system restart.

It is the most efficient and lowest cost solution for protecting high power systems that can be up to megawatts in power rating. The applications include Smart Grid Systems, High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) power transmission systems, windmill generators, UPS’s, Motor Drives and power generators in hydroelectric dams.

“It is not often in high power applications that such a low cost component can be utilised to protect semiconductors with a value of thousands of dollars and a system of over hundreds of thousands of dollars,” commented Bradley Green, VP of International Sales for IXYS Corporation. “But the IXYS’ solid state semiconductor BOD range with its improved reaction speeds and higher voltage capability give our customers a self resetting, overvoltage protection system which reduces down time and improves system ruggedness at low comparative cost which in today’s environment are pre-requisites in any design.”

With this new development, IXYS has improved two important characteristics of the BOD. The temperature coefficient has been reduced by a factor of 3 improving the tolerance of the break-over voltage limit over the complete temperature range. This gives designers the benefit for a more precise and controllable design due to smaller tolerances. Additionally, the latest generation dramatically reduces switch-on-time of the BOD in reaction to an overvoltage event down to a few nanoseconds. This not only improves the safety of the system but also increases the relevant application space for this technology and gives designers a solid state alternative to older, more complicated and expensive protection solutions.

The extremely high rate of change of the voltage (dv/dt) makes the new generation attractive for ignition applications of high voltage impulse technology such as High Intensity Discharge (HID) lighting.

The latest generation is called the IXBOD2TM range and features extended voltage operating range over previous solutions thereby giving the designer options in single element ratings from 100V to 1400V. Series connection of the IXBOD2TM is also possible to extend the system voltage protected to over 10kV.

For more detailed information, data sheets etc. visit our website under www.ixys.com or contact your local sales representative.

Asoka Launches First Solution for Residential Solar Power Systems Using Power Lines for Data Logging

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Asoka Corporation, a pioneer in powerline communication (PLC) hardware, software and cloud Digital Living Services™, today announced SolarLink, the first residential solar solution that uses existing in-home electrical wiring for system data logging and remote monitoring.

The SolarLink PLC adapter directly connects the solar power system’s inverter and data logger to the residence’s home area network internet service through the electrical wiring to upload data to the solar service provider. This eliminates the need for complex cable installations and is more robust than unreliable wireless systems, providing flexibility in installation options and reducing installation costs and customer inconvenience.

SolarLink enables providers to remotely monitor system performance over the Internet and diagnose maintenance issues without on-site visits. It also gives third party solar monitoring services a way to provide data so customers can see how much power their system has produced, how much of that they have used and how much has been sold back to their utility.

“SolarLink is a key part of Asoka’s state-of-the-art Digital Living Service line of solutions,” said Eric Grubel, CEO of Asoka. “Our PLC technology and simple-to-install hardware provide solutions that cut time and costs for installers by utilizing the most ubiquitous network in the home—residential electric wiring.”

“We have enjoyed working with Asoka,” said Michael Herzig, CEO of Locus Energy, a New York City-based solar monitoring software provider. “Not only do they stand behind their products with one of the longest warranties in the industry, they also have the flexibility and service necessary to meet the changing demands of the fast-moving renewable energy space.”

“SunCap Financial’s mission is to provide a simple and affordable solar solution for homeowners through our partner installer network,” said Jordan Fruge, senior vice president of sales and marketing for SunCap Financial, a Houston based solar lease provider. “Asoka’s innovative powerline technology and plug and play installation allows our partners to save time and money on difficult cable runs and increase profits and customer satisfaction by offering monitoring services over the internet.”

Asoka SolarLink products are available now from Asoka’s worldwide sales force. For more information please visit www.asokatech.com or call 408-550-8167.

Cogenra Solar Selected By U.S. Department of Defense for 2012 Installation Energy Test Bed Initiative

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cogenra Solar, provider of distributed solar cogeneration systems and renewable energy service solutions, today announced that its solar cogeneration technology has been selected by the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) for its Installation Energy Test Bed initiative for FY2012. Cogenra’s hybrid solar solution is among the 27 projects chosen from 575 proposals competing to demonstrate effectiveness in meeting the DoD’s goals on environmental, energy and economic performance.

Cogenra was chosen for a $2M contract for two military sites, a U.S. Navy and a U.S. Army facility, that were specifically selected based on diverse building types, climates, and hot water usage to expedite adoption of solar cogeneration at other DoD sites nationwide upon completion. Producing hot water and electricity, the installations will be evaluated throughout the year to demonstrate high energy production and cost effectiveness of the technology for military applications.

“We are honored to be among the very few companies selected by the DoD to be part of their renewable energy efforts,” said Dr. Gilad Almogy, CEO of Cogenra Solar. “This program is a great vehicle to demonstrate solar cogeneration’s many benefits to the DoD, such as lower energy costs, reduced dependence of fossil fuels, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. We welcome this opportunity to grow Cogenra’s footprint in the military market.”

With more than 300,000 buildings and 2.2 billion square feet of space, the DoD spends $4 billion a year on the “facility energy” to power these buildings. The Installation Energy Test Best Initiative is a pivotal program for testing, evaluating and scaling up innovative new energy technologies to improve the U.S. military’s energy security and reduce facility energy costs. Demonstrations focus on renewable energy sources that are mission-compatible and at the appropriate scale for remote military installations. Cost, performance and reliability data gathered from operational deployment of innovative renewable energy sources on DoD installations will inform decisions on their widespread applicability across DoD.

The two Cogenra installations will deliver hot water and electricity to the sites’ dining halls for cleaning and cooking as well as residential quarters for everyday uses, such as showing, laundry and other amenities. Based in California, the Port Hueneme Naval Base in Ventura County will have a 242 kW rooftop array, and the Army Parks Reserve Forces Training Area in Dublin will deploy a 121 kW system. In addition to the standard install, the project scope includes development of design tools in order to facilitate rapid adoption of solar cogeneration on other DoD sites.

Cogenra’s solar cogeneration solution encompasses both photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies to deliver low-cost electricity and hot water in one modular and scalable system. Capturing up to 75 percent of the sun's delivered energy, Cogenra's technology maximizes energy production by producing hot water from the waste heat of PV generation.

In addition to the award by DoD, Cogenra was among an elite group of twelve vendors selected to exhibit its technology in September 2011 at ExFOB, the U.S. Marine Corps’ Experimental Forward Operating Base demonstration to determine how energy efficient technologies hold up in the extreme desert environment. As a result, the Marine Corps selected Cogenra’s technology for further testing and validation with the possibility of expedited deployment at Forward Operating Bases around the world.

PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems Donates to Tri-City Food Bank Encourages Others to Give What They Can

NEWARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems donates cash to the Tri-city Volunteers Food Bank in Fremont so clients can cook meals for their families at home this Thanksgiving. Says Jim Petersen, CEO and founder, “I only wish we could give more but are proud to participate at any level and we encourage others to give what they can because every little bit helps.”
 
Statistics show that approximately 65% of those who turn to food banks are working class families who struggle to keep a roof over their heads as well as provide food for their families. “Theirs are not the faces you expect to see in a food bank line,” says Melissa Ponchard, Executive Director of the Tri-City Volunteers Food Bank and Thrift Store and while she does not like it, she is “not worried if the line for food donations has increased as long as the line for the homeless does not grow.” A tough reality for anyone who runs a food bank with a daily responsibility to manage the resources required to feed thousands of people. Despite the challenges, is it clearly a career upon which Melissa thrives.

PetersenDean, a local Newark company, usually donates a ton of turkeys at Thanksgiving to a local food bank but with the rising cost of most foods, it became clear that Tri-City Food Bank could serve more people if they used their own resources to obtain the kinds of foods their community consumes. After a thorough examination of her increasingly diverse community, Ms. Ponchard knows foods like rice, beans, potatoes, lentils and chicken make more sense for families and go further than one turkey, “There are some who are not familiar with traditional American Thanksgiving staples but would still like to serve a wholesome, culturally appropriate, meal as they give thanks.” Food banks nationwide have made the tough decision to move away from traditional Thanksgiving fare as the number of those needing supplemental food support population diversity increases.

If you want to help, simply stop at Tri-City Volunteers Food Bank at 37350 Joseph Street, Fremont, CA to make your tax deductible financial or food donation.

What your cash donation buys: According to an article released by MSN Money staff, a $1 donation to a local food bank provides about five to fifteen pounds of food products because of their ability to buy in bulk, staff with volunteers and through their connections in the community who notify them of specials and where to get deep discounts.

What foods do food banks need: Fruit and vegetables and canned goods for food boxes such as canned fruit and vegetables, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, pasta, beans, rice, canned soup, low sugar cereal and oatmeal, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce and powdered milk, jalapenos, corn flower, lentils and spices such as cumin, garlic and ginger.

About Tri-City Volunteers Food Bank and Thrift Shop

Tri-City Volunteers is a community-based social services organization. In 2010, through their community food bank, Tri-City Volunteers distributed well over 2 million pounds of food to some 5,500 local families, over 14,000 individuals. Their vision is to enable low-income earners to find pathways to a better life, including pathways away from hunger and homelessness, pathways to employment and job skills with strong, happy, and productive families. To learn more about Tri-City Volunteers Food Bank and Thrift Store go to http://www.tri-cityvolunteers.org.

About PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems: Headquartered in Newark, California as the largest privately held roofing and solar contractor in the United State, and operating in 15 regional offices across the United States, PetersenDean offers something few other companies can: the ability to guarantee all products and installations above the roofline. Our commitment to safety, superior quality customer service, and the environment has earned us an industry-wide reputation for excellence. Learn more at www.petersendean.com.

Vincotech Adds New Modules for Single-Phase Solar Inverters and UPS

MUNICH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vincotech, a supplier of module-based solutions for power electronics, has added three new products to its family of power modules for single-phase solar inverter and UPS applications. These recent additions to the flowSOL 0 range are the latest in a line of high-performance, ultra-efficient power modules.

Vincotechs has extended its offering of flowSOL 0 power modules to meet the latest demands of single-phase solar inverter and UPS inverter applications. Featuring a booster and inverter (H-bridge) in the same flow0 housing, they are rated for 1.5 kW to 5 kW.

Engineered especially for transformer-less 600V solar- and UPS applications, the new modules leverage the latest Infineon CoolMOS™ C6 technology and SiC diodes to deliver superior performance and satisfy very high demands for efficiency (up to 98%).

The new flowSOL 0 modules at a glance:
Vincotech Part. No.:   Voltage:   Power:   Technology:
10-FZ06NBIA099FS-P893E 600V 1.8kW CoolMOS™ C6 + SiC in booster and inverter NEW
10-FZ06NBIA070FS-P894E 600V 3.0kW CoolMOS™ C6 + SiC in booster and inverter NEW
10-FZ06BIA041FS01-P898E10 600V 5.0kW CoolMOS™ C6 + SiC in booster NEW

The modules are packaged in Vincotech’s standard flow 0 2-clip housing measuring 66mm by 33mm and 12 mm in height. They are in serial production and samples are available now. To learn more about Vincotech’s power module products, please visit http://www.vincotech.com/news/newsletter/flowsol-0-family-extension.html

Vincotech is a trademark of Vincotech Holdings S.à.r.l.

CoolMOS™ is a trademark of Infineon Technologies AG.

ABOUT VINCOTECH

Vincotech – an independent operating unit within Mitsubishi Electric Corporation – develops and manufactures subsystems and electronic components and provides manufacturing services that help customers master complex challenges in electronics integration. Vincotech’s extensive portfolio encompasses standard and tailored solutions, engineering services, and technical support for customers worldwide. These products and services contribute to sustainable, environmentally sound solutions that help modern society embrace mega-trends and explore new avenues.

With approximately 500 employees worldwide, backed by vast experience and a long history in electronics integration, Vincotech leverages these assets to help customers achieve maximum market success.

First Solar Signs 2˚C Challenge Communiqué

DURBAN, South Africa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) has signed the 2˚C Challenge Communiqué as global leaders converge on Durban, South Africa for the next round of United Nations climate change debate.
   
“Our mission is to power the world with clean, affordable solar electricity. Price reductions in photovoltaics just since Copenhagen have put renewables on a trajectory to reach parity with unsubsidized fossil fuels. To promote further progress towards a low carbon and 100% renewable energy society, we urge the leaders at Durban to stop subsidizing fossil fuels and ultimately to set a price on carbon that is sufficient to dissuade people from burning it,” said David Eaglesham, First Solar’s Chief Technology Officer.

Initiated by The Prince of Wales’s Corporate Leaders Group on Climate Change (CLG) and managed and developed by the University of Cambridge Programme for Sustainability Leadership, the 2˚C Challenge Communiqué calls on governments to break the deadlock in the international climate negotiations and take the necessary action at the national level to ensure a successful transition to green growth and a climate resilient economy.

The Communiqué notes that, if they fail to act, governments "risk permanent damage to their credibility", but the right action would "secure a low carbon-emission economy that is more resilient, more efficient and less vulnerable to global shock". Without an international deal, "business will have insufficient clarity or certainty of action to invest to its full potential".

First Solar, for its part, recently announced the achievement of a cumulative production milestone of 5 gigawatts (GW) of its advanced, thin-film solar modules, which collectively displace 3.3 million tons of CO2 emissions and represent the equivalent of planting 84 million trees or removing 650,000 cars from the road.

Demand for solar energy remains constrained in many markets, however, by artificially low prices for conventional energies based on fossil fuels, which emit CO2 when they are burned to provide energy. The International Energy Agency’s latest estimates indicate that fossil-fuel consumption subsidies worldwide amounted to $409 billion in 2010, up from $300 billion in 2009, with subsidies to oil products representing almost half of the total.

BrightSource Energy and Southern California Edison Add Energy Storage Capabilities to Power Purchase Agreements

OAKLAND, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BrightSource Energy, Inc., a leading solar thermal technology company, today announced the addition of its SolarPLUSTM thermal energy storage capability to three of its power purchase agreements with Southern California Edison (SCE). The agreements illustrate the critical value of highly-efficient power tower solar thermal technology with storage in providing utility customers with cost-competitive, reliable and dispatchable clean power that meets peak demand.
   
By adding storage to its solar thermal power plants, BrightSource is able to further reduce the total cost of energy by increasing its capacity factor - how much power a plant produces over a year – extending the production of electricity into later parts of the day when it is most needed by utilities.

“With these agreements, we’re demonstrating that power tower technology is not only advancing the solar thermal industry, but that utility-scale solar generation can be both cost effective and reliable,” said John Woolard, President and CEO of BrightSource Energy. “We’re thrilled to offer Southern California Edison a solution that provides higher value for its customers, while supporting a more reliable and stable grid for all Californians.”

Recent studies1 by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory point to the high value of concentrating solar thermal power technologies with storage. This added value is a result of the resource’s unique capabilities including:

    Shifting electricity production to periods of highest demand
    Providing firm capacity to the power system; replacing the need for conventional power plants as opposed to just supplementing their output
    Providing ancillary services such as spinning reserves to help support a reliable grid
    Avoiding the variability and integration costs that other renewable resources like photovoltaics (PV) and wind create for utilities and grid operators; reducing the need for additional fossil fuel units required to back up intermittent renewables that put a hidden financial burden on ratepayers

To mitigate these integration costs, energy regulators, utilities, grid operators and policymakers are focusing their attention on advancing deployment of energy storage technologies. California recently passed Assembly Bill 2514, landmark legislation designed to encourage the adoption of energy storage technologies.

"Energy storage improves the overall efficiency of our electric power system which will lower costs for consumers," said Assembly Member Nancy Skinner (D – Berkeley), author of the bill. "The Assembly's passage of AB 2514 is another step that advances California's clean energy economy and represents a great economic opportunity for the State."

A BrightSource power tower solar thermal system uses a field of software-controlled mirrors called heliostats to reflect the sun’s energy to a boiler atop a tower to produce high temperature and high pressure steam. The steam is used to turn a highly efficient steam turbine to produce electricity. When storage is added, the steam is directed to a heat exchanger, where molten salts are further heated to a higher temperature, thus efficiently storing the heat energy for future use. Later, when the energy in storage is needed, the heat stored in the molten salts is used to generate steam to run the turbine.

Under the original power purchase agreements with Southern California Edison, BrightSource would provide approximately four million megawatt-hours of electricity annually across seven power plants. Due to higher efficiencies and capacity factors associated with energy storage, the new set of agreements will provide approximately the same amount of energy annually but with one less plant, reducing the land impacts of delivering this energy and avoiding transactional costs that ultimately impact California’s ratepayers.

The new set of contracts, if approved by the California Public Utilities Commission, now consist of two BrightSource solar thermal plants scheduled to deliver electricity in 2015 and three BrightSource plants with energy storage scheduled to deliver electricity in 2016 and 2017. In addition, BrightSource and its partners – NRG Energy, Google and Bechtel - are currently constructing a 126 megawatt plant for Southern California Edison at the Ivanpah solar project in southeast California.

Solar3D Appoints Dr. Nadir Dagli Chief Scientific Advisor

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar3D, Inc. (OTCBB: SLTD), the developer of a breakthrough 3-dimensional solar cell technology to maximize the conversion of sunlight into electricity, today announced the appointment of Dr. Nadir Dagli as Chief Scientific Advisor to guide the development of the company’s technology and prototype.

Over his career, Dr. Dagli has pioneered many novel breakthrough technologies in photonics and made significant contributions to compound semiconductor electro-optic modulators that are critical to high-speed telecommunication systems. Dr. Dagli chaired and served on the technical program committees and advisory committees of numerous leading conferences. He has also authored and coauthored over 150 journal and conference publications.

“As we press to move our technology closer to commercialization, we are extremely pleased to have someone of Dr. Dagli’s caliber on our team,” said Jim Nelson, CEO of Solar3D. “He brings years of direct and complimentary experience to bear on the issues that we will face as we develop our technology. He has the knowledge and creativity to help us optimize the efficiency of our new solar cell design.”

Solar3D’s breakthrough technology uses low-cost processes and innovative 3D light trapping structures to increase the efficiency of solar cells in order to decrease the overall cost per watt of electricity. Through revolutionary solar cell engineering, Solar3D’s approach will tip the solar cost curve in the direction of massive scalability, thus allowing the global deployment of a non-polluting energy technology that produces electricity from an unlimited power source, the Sun.

“I am honored to be part of an innovative company that is determined to make solar energy more cost-effective,” said Dr. Dagli. “Solar3D’s technology has the potential to change the way people think about energy by making it economically feasible to dramatically increase the use of photovoltaics to generate electricity.”

Dr. Dagli received his Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and has been a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB).

CNPV Formalises Their Positive Tolerance Gains for Solar PV Modules

LUXEMBOURG and DONGYING, China, Nov. 28, 2011  PRNewswire-Asia/--CNPV Solar Power SA, a public limited liability company organized under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic products, today formalised their ongoing practice of providing their solar photovoltaic modules with a positive tolerance.

CNPV, routinely supplies their solar PV modules with a positive tolerance based upon the solar PV modules rating label. Their historical written commitment has been to provide modules with a +/- tolerance as is common industry practice. The previous written commitment has a wider tolerance than their operational activities and is therefore being repositioned to reflect their ongoing commitment to provide increased value for large area modules.

Mr. Bypina Veerraju Chaudary, CNPV's COO explained in greater detail, " As a result of a more stringent, tighter tolerance cell selection process, our module production delivers three key elements of major benefit to our customers; the cell power balancing for module longevity and increased harvesting ability, the module balancing for additional power gains in the order of 2%, and the ability to always supply at least the value of the invoiced power rating. Our focus on delivering improved benefit in these and other areas has ensured that we have always provided the positive aspects of these topics. As of today we have broken from the industry standard and formalised our position that all modules will be of equal or greater power output than the rating label up to a maximum of 3%. Within this +3% tolerance, we have a further segregation of power outputs; we carry out sub-binning based upon the Imp (maximum power current), to ensure that each module is within 1% of its collective neighbours within the pallet. And finally, our primary binning, for cell selection, utilises a greater sorting ratio than our competitors, which ensures that each individual module's cells are balanced with a significantly higher tolerance reduction. Tighter tolerance has a major impact on the power harvesting and longevity in real world applications and is independently shown to be a major benefit to the customers goals of profit generation. "

There is a counter-intuitive element to this feature, sometimes based on individuals perception that a bigger number is a bigger benefit. In the case of positive power tolerance this is not the case. A -3%+3% tolerance has a 6% potential variation. By utilising 1% sub-binning for the modules, the latent module mismatch within the pallet/string is reduced from 6% to 1% with a resultant net effect of a 2% gain on power harvesting.

CNPV modules will continue to be supplied in line with their strategy of providing the largest possible financial gain for the capital invested when utilising crystalline photovoltaic technology. The formalisation of the positive tolerance process warrants that as of November 1, 2011, all modules leaving CNPV's manufacturing facility are contractually ensured to encompass the three positive gains noted.

Silverback Solar Names Lad Wallace as COO

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Nov. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Silverback Solar said Monday it has named David "Lad" Wallace COO effective immediately.

Wallace, a consultant for Silverback Solar for the past 16 months, brings needed depth in both the solar industry as well as in general business management.  Previously he held the post of CFO at Akeena Solar (dba Westinghouse Solar) helping take the company public in 2006, and was CFO at Bonny Doon Vineyards before that.

"Lad's enthusiasm and ability to execute have proven to be of great value to me and the rest of the team," said Ryan Bruce, president and CEO of the Santa Cruz-based solar racking company. "Because of his broad experience in a number of industries, he has perspectives that offer us new ways of managing and expanding our growing solar business."

Silverback Solar, a subsidiary of RoofScreen Manufacturing, provides the solar industry with the best engineered and most robust commercial rooftop solar racking solutions on the market today. They pride themselves on the highest quality engineering and industry-leading customer support.  The company has also recently launched its new ground mount product line incorporating the same level of professionalism and construction industry knowledge that has been the company's hallmark for the past decade.

ET Solar Supplies 2.56MW of Transparent and Frameless Modules to French Green House Project

NANJING, China, Nov. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- ET Solar Group Corp. ("ET Solar"), a China-based vertically integrated producer and provider of Photovoltaic ("PV") modules and related solutions to the global solar market, today announces its supply of 2.56MW PV modules to a green house project located in Cruas, France.

All modules used in the project are transparent and frameless mono-crystalline modules that ET Solar introduced to the market earlier this year. They were installed on the rooftops of an agricultural greenhouse that was grid-connected last month. Classic Energy and TRITEC were the project developer and system integrator respectively.

Mr. Dennis She, President and Chief Executive Officer of ET Solar, commented: "We are very pleased to be the exclusive module supplier to the greenhouse project that represents an increasingly exciting market segment. The experience that we acquired from the transaction will clearly strengthen our ability to be a more significant contributor to the growing French PV market."

Mr. Alexander Schumann, technical director of Cruas project designated by Classic Energy, commented: "ET Solar has demonstrated to be a trusted partner with bankable module products, value-added services and robust sales and engineering support that have contributed greatly to the timely completion of this project."

Mr. Giorgio Hefti, Chief Executive Officer of TRITEC, added: "This project is a strong proof of the high quality work of ET Solar, and we look forward to continuing our successful cooperation with them."

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.

ENN Solar Energy Partnered with NERC to Transform a New Jersey Landfill into a 4.3MW Solar Farm

LANGFANG, China, Nov. 28, 2011 /Solar Energy News/ -- A New Jersey landfill has recently been converted into a solar power generation facility capable of producing over 100 million kilowatt-hours of electricity over its lifetime. The solar project, which employs about 9,000 ENN's PV panels and is located on the south slope of the Edgeboro Landfill in East Brunswick, New Jersey, was developed and constructed by ENN Solar Energy in partnership with National Energy Renewable Corp., LLC (NERC). The project utilizes very large state-of-the-art thin film silicon solar modules from ENN plus an innovative construction technique that helps to enable the use of a variety of wasteland for renewable energy production.

This 4.3MW solar site has undergone and successfully completed extensive compliance testing in preparation for connection to the power grid, making available its clean power output to New Jersey consumers through PSE&G (Public Service Electric and Gas Company), New Jersey's oldest and largest publicly owned utility.

ENN Solar Energy, headquartered in Langfang, China, specializes in the manufacture of large (up to 5.7 sq. meters) photovoltaic (PV) modules which have been used in the development of various commercial and industrial projects throughout China, Europe and other areas. For the Edgeboro project, the installation of these large modules utilized a new "floating" architecture that securely anchors the solar panels to the landfill surface with no needs to penetrate the landfill cap that would increase the leaking risk of flammable methane gas.

"Through the comprehensive utilization of wastelands, such as landfills, abandoned industrial sites and deserts, we can develop and build substantial ground-mounted solar power plants that advance the future development of clean power," said De-Ling Zhou, Chief Operating Officer of ENN Solar Energy. "ENN is committed to the development, construction, and deployment of PV and other clean energy projects, and will continue to seek out other idle land resources in North America where our renewable energy technologies, engineering and operational expertise can provide a 'one-stop shop' of integrated services".

About ENN Solar Energy:

ENN Solar Energy is headquartered in Langfang, China, where it manufactures leading edge thin-film silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules. The company is dedicated to solar energy technology innovation and specializes in large, high-performance photovoltaic modules up to 5.7 square meters. The company's parent, ENN Group, was founded in 1989, employs more than 27,000 people and operates over 100 subsidiaries in more than 100 cities around the world. See also www.ennsolar.com

Solarpraxis Hosts 3rd PV Power Plants Conference

BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solarpraxis AG, one of the leading organizers of conferences in the renewable energy sectors, will host its third annual conference series focusing exclusively on large-scale solar power plants on November 30 and December 1. The conference will provide essential information for project developers and decision makers from all related areas striving to gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest utility-scale PV technologies, markets, political frameworks, infrastructure and financing. The conference will feature a keynote speech from Mayor Phil Gordon, City of Phoenix, and Barry Broome, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. Additional speakers include APS, NV Energy, First Solar, Schneider Electric, SMA, SOLON, SunEdison, Suntech, and the Department of Energy (DOE). In addition to the conference, three complimentary activities will be held; the first one kicking-off the conference will be a facility tour through Suntech on November 29, a Workshop on the Dos and Don’ts of Large Scale Solar Development and lastly, a site tour through the Power-One, Inc. facility.

Solarpraxis conferences are a “must attend” event in the solar industry and attendees such as Brad Meikle of Renewable Analytics LLC claims just that, “In the emerging industry of Solar PV there is a conference almost every week. My colleagues and I have been to many Solarpraxis events, in both the US and Europe, and they have all been very well managed. The quality of speakers and panelists are excellent, and as a result, senior members of the industry attend these events.” This year’s PV Power Plants conference will be no different and will certainly provide an ideal platform for discussion about the industry’s current trends.

Additional Solarpraxis conference, Inverter and PV System Technology Forum, will take place on February 27-28, 2012 in San Francisco: http://www.solarpraxis.de/en/conferences/

About Solarpraxis AG: Solarpraxis AG is one of the leading knowledge service providers in the renewable energy sector. The Berlin-based company provides clients with expertise and professional services in the fields of engineering, conference organization and publishing. Its B2B magazines include pv magazine and photovoltaik.

Coalition of 150 Solar Employers of More Than 11,000 Workers Shows Widespread Support for U.S. Solar Manufacturing

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--About 150 U.S. solar-industry employers of more than 11,000 American workers have joined the Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing (CASM) to support the U.S. government’s investigation of China’s solar trade practices and the restoration of fair, sustainable, international solar-industry competition.

The numbers include seven U.S. solar manufacturers that have joined to stop what CASM calls China’s state-sponsored solar industry from allegedly using export-oriented subsidies to dump exports into the U.S. market and harm American manufacturers and workers. Without a production cost advantage, China is deploying a staggering volume and array of subsidies to underwrite its production largely for export at dumped prices, according to CASM. The campaign has triggered trade petition drives to hold China accountable not just in the United States but also in Australia and Europe.

The U.S. coalition includes dozens of solar suppliers and installers from across the country, many of whom have issued impassioned pleas to preserve fair trade and U.S. jobs.

“We are gratified, but not surprised, to see this showing of support from such a broad cross-section of the American solar industry,” said Ben Santarris, U.S. head of corporate communications. “We know that support for domestic manufacturing is deep and pervasive. It’s great to see that it’s also resolute enough to stand up and be counted and heard.”

A sampling of the coalition’s associate members and their viewpoints:

    Mark Becker, president, Semper Fidelis Construction Inc., nine employees, California: “Free and fair trade is an American value. The current policies of the People's Republic of China are not examples of free and fair trade. Devalued currency and government-propped businesses that can sell their products at a loss are putting Americans out of work.”
    Christopher Maingot, project development, Superior Solar Systems, 25 employees, Florida: “Solar manufacturing in the U.S. needs support. Heavily subsidized Chinese imports are killing the American solar manufacturing industry. This is a growing Industry that has the ability to put a lot of out-of-work Americans to work and to put America in the forefront of a very lucrative and important energy source going forward.”
    Luke Uzupis, co-founder, Amped On Solar, 10 employees, New Jersey: “From day one, our mission has included supporting American jobs and the American economy. Unfair practices by off-shore manufacturers and U.S. companies who support those products have made it difficult for us to remain competitive.”
    James Coger, president, Custom Home & Commercial Electronics, 25 employees, Arizona: “When there is a level playing field, American business can compete with any country. The subsidies China provides to its solar PV panel manufacturers make for an illegal environment, making it impossible for any country to compete in the one-sided market!”

To view more membership highlights, go to www.americansolarmanufacturing.org.

The next step in CASM’s trade case will be a Dec. 2 preliminary determination by the U.S. International Trade Commission on whether subsidized Chinese exports have injured the domestic industry. If it finds in favor of CASM, the first possible determination on “critical circumstances” could come as soon as Jan. 12, meaning importers of record could later be required to deposit estimated duties on imports back to this past Oct. 14. The Commerce Department initiated antidumping and countervailing duty investigations of the Chinese industry on Nov. 9.

The Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing is made up of seven companies that manufacture solar cells and modules in the United States. These member companies have plants in nearly every region in the United States, including the Northwest and California, the Southwest, Midwest, Northeast and South and support several thousand U.S. manufacturing jobs. For details about CASM, go to www.americansolarmanufacturing.org; email media questions to media@americansolarmanufacturing.org; other questions or comments may be emailed to contact@americansolarmanufacturing.org.

Blue Oak Energy Designs the Largest Photovoltaic Project Achieved by the United States Coast Guard

DAVIS, Calif.--(Solar Energy News)--Blue Oak Energy and Point 2 Structural Engineers designed a 2.8 megawatt solar electric project for the U.S. Coast Guard in Puerto Rico as part of a large-scale energy savings performance program implemented by Schneider Electric. The U.S. Coast Guard reduced greenhouse gases (GHG) by replacing brown power with PV-generated green power.
   
“By replacing conventional forms of energy with renewables, the Coast Guard not only reduces GHG emissions but also improves the reliability of its electrical system, especially important in the hurricane belt of the Caribbean,” said federal energy solutions program manager for Schneider Electric, Kevin Vaughn.

The PV systems span two sites – Air Station Borinquen in Aguadilla and Rio Bayamon Housing Center in San Juan – and includes:

    200 residential rooftops
    6 commercial rooftops
    5 carports arrays and
    3 ground mount arrays

Significant variations in building elevations and orientations combined with extreme weather conditions posed a unique challenge to provide economical and technically feasible designs.

“We standardized design across many small housing units, multi-use facilities and time weathered buildings, some dating as far back as World War II,” said Blue Oak Energy Engineering Project Manager, Zack Zoller. “We went with a campus-wide approach to lower design and installation costs.”

About Blue Oak Energy

Blue Oak Energy (BOE) is a full service provider of solar photovoltaic systems with a core focus on engineering and construction. With more than 100 years of combined experience in the solar industry, Blue Oak’s services include project planning and feasibility, design and engineering, turn-key installation, and system maintenance. Blue Oak Energy has provided a range of services for projects with a cumulative total of over 350MW of projects which are currently in operation today. The company is known for delivering some of the largest and most innovative solar electric projects across commercial, industrial, government, and utility sites. Named for California’s hardy native blue oak trees, Blue Oak Energy delivers quality work with a central mission of continuously installing solar electric systems to diversify our energy mix. For more information, please visit www.blueoakenergy.com.

Point 2 Structural Engineers, Inc.

Point 2 Structural Engineers, Inc. offers comprehensive structural engineering services for a wide range of projects throughout the U.S. with a variety of governing agencies. These projects include new structures, renovations and additions, peer reviews, existing building assessments, glass window wall design, and photovoltaic support systems. Point 2 Structural Engineers has served as the structural engineer of record for over 800 projects including approximately 130 photovoltaic projects. Point 2 has developed a variety of innovative and cost effective solutions for the structural support elements of solar energy photovoltaic panels, including; ground mount solar, single and dual axis trackers, roof mounted installations, and ballasted systems. Point 2’s commitment to excellent client service, innovative and efficient structural design, and technical expertise is our key to ensuring our clients’ success. For additional information: www.point2se.com