Solar Power News

Volunteer Day Cancelled

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:40:00 GMT

Due to Hurricane Ida and all the rain and wind she has brought with her, we have cancelled the volunteer day scheduled for today, November 14 at 9am.

Thank you
Solar One Staff

The Coolest Car We've Ever Seen

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:34:00 GMT

Wow. We just finished watching the latest video blog from the Green Girls, a group of beautiful women working to inspire an eco-conscious lifestyle. They’re showcasing what is most definitely the coolest hybrid vehicle we have ever laid eyes on: the Fisker Karma. Fisker Automotive is one of the few hybrid-only manufacturers [...]

Solar Energy Statistics from SunRun

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:03:00 GMT

In an effort to make solar energy information more accessible to those who are interested, SunRun has been researching people across the country on their thoughts and questions about going solar. The research turned up some pretty interesting facts that we thought you guys would want to read about.

A progressively green 86% of people polled have considered putting solar panels on their homes. However, only 5% have done serious research to come up with a plan and meet with solar companies about the installation process. And only 1 out of 1000 homes in the country actually use solar energy. While these figures are relatively low, people's interest in getting solar energy remains high and ultimately very promising for the future.

But what is holding people back from their interest in going solar with actually hunkering down and finding a solar company to come put in the panels? People that were surveyed acknowledged their biggest concern with solar energy, which is th high upfront costs required to install the solar panels. Luckily, SunRun's solar financing takes care of a lot of those initial high costs and makes it simpler to get solar panels. SunRun's plan coupled with the high interest in going solar is a fantastic indication of a future with much cleaner energy.

What other factors do you think could stop people from getting the solar panels they are so interested in?

SEAT starts installing solar panels on Martorell factory roof

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:52:00 GMT

Filed under: Manufacturing/Plants, Solar, Europe/EU, SEAT

As we announced, SEAT is trying to maximize the possibilities of the sunny Mediterranean climate for its factory in Martorell, near Barcelona, Spain. SEAT's plan is ambitious, and could allow the plant to be able to function almost off the grid. The factory will use 320,000 m² of solar panels on the roof, the equivalent of 10 MW of electric power. Annually, the plant could generate 13 million kWh. That's enough to power 3,000 homes and will save up to 6,200 metric tons of CO₂. The first project will start working next year, and will be Spain's second largest photovoltaic installation. Now let's see if solar power can be used for the Brisa and Duna models

[Source: SEAT]

SEAT starts installing solar panels on Martorell factory roof originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AirRay concept scoops the competition with four turbines, solar panels and V2G

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:59:00 GMT

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Solar, Green Daily

Fans of the normal-car-as-EV style of the Coda Sedan, you've been warned. What we have here is the AirRay, a totally unusual vehicle that (theoretically, at least) uses solar, wind and plug-in power to decrease gasoline consumption. It's also a little bit crazy.

The giant air scoops on the hood and rear of this car are used to power the air turbines - three in front, one in back - that generate energy for some sort of unspecified battery system. Said battery can also be charged using a plug, and the whole apparatus is Vehicle to Grid (V2G) capable. On the roof, a "solar honeycomb-membrane panel" sucks up rays for additional power.

The AirRay is the product of EarthSure Renewable Energy Corp., which bills itself as "an American corporation innovating technologies to produce energy in a clean and affordable way." What are they all about? Well, "Our goal is to offer a cost-effective way for all businesses to use Green Energy, regardless of size or industry. We are on the cutting edge of compliance with America's Green Initiatives as they relate to the energy and environmental provisions in the Stimulus Plan. Sounds like this car will be ready ... never, but there's a video of the rendering in action after the jump. Thanks to Sean J. for the tip!

[Source: AirRay]

Continue reading AirRay concept scoops the competition with four turbines, solar panels and V2G

AirRay concept scoops the competition with four turbines, solar panels and V2G originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ridgeblade: the Silent Residential Wind Turbine Concept

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:16:00 GMT

Ridgeblade, a concept wind generation product developed by the UK-based Power Collective, is a clever twist on traditional wind turbines. The Ridgeblade sits on the ridge of your roof and produces about as much power as a medium turbine, thanks to the vectoring of air that the existing roof provides. This would be a powerful [...]

Evolution Solar Evaluates Bermuda Opportunities

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:49:00 GMT

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evolution Solar Corp. (PinkSheets: EVSO) today announced that the Company has been introduced to a number of solar project opportunities in Bermuda and the Caribbean through its recently announced relationship with Saul Ewing, LLP. Robert Hines, President of Evolution Solar, recently concluded a visit to the Commonwealth of Bermuda to explore one of these project opportunities. While in Bermuda, Hines met with various high-level government and utility executives to discuss how EVSO could provide products and services to the citizens of Bermuda.

Evolution is customizing a state of the art solar solution for the island community and will be conducting a follow-up visit and presentation to Bermudian government officials within the next few weeks.

“The opportunity to customize solar solutions is what we do well,” stated Hines. “I look forward to working with the government of Bermuda to provide alternative sources of energy that will assist them in meeting their energy growth objectives.”

Evolution Solar expects to compete with industry leaders such as Sun Power (Nasdaq: SPWRA), First Solar (Nasdaq: FSLR), and BP Solar, a division of energy giant BP, PLC (NYSE: BP).

SunEdison and Procter & Gamble Activate 1.1 MW Solar PV System at Paper Products Manufacturing Plant in Oxnard, CA

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:48:00 GMT

OXNARD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunEdison and Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) celebrated today the activation of a 1.1 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic solar system at Procter & Gamble’s paper products manufacturing plant in Oxnard, California. The event was attended by Mayor Tom Holden of Oxnard; Senator Fran Pavley of the 23^rd District; Karen Kukurin, Deputy Director, Community Liaison Office of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger; and a representative from the office of Congresswoman Lois Capps of the 23^rd District. Also attending were executives from Procter & Gamble and SunEdison, the solar services provider that financed, built and will maintain the solar energy system.

The roof-mounted photovoltaic solar energy system is projected to produce more than 1.9 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean solar energy during its first year of operation. Over 20 years, the system is estimated to produce more than 34 million kWh, enough energy to power 3,267 average U.S. homes for a year.

According to Vera Ingenhuett, plant manager of the P&G Oxnard facility, “Activating this solar energy system is a milestone in meeting our goals for sustainability. P&G recently doubled the corporation’s 2012 per-unit reduction targets for greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation and water and energy consumption, and solar energy is a major component of our energy strategy. For our Oxnard project, SunEdison’s SPSA business model allowed us to move from construction to activation in two-and-a-half months.”

Brian Jacolick, SunEdison’s General Manager, Americas, said, “P&G continues to be a model for corporate energy responsibility. Activation of this zero-emissions system in Oxnard means that, over 20 years, an estimated 36.9 million pounds of carbon dioxide that would have been emitted during the production of electricity from fossil fuels will be removed. This is the equivalent of taking 3,620 cars off the road for one year.”

Carlos Domenech, President of SunEdison, commented, “We are delighted and honored to enable P&G to achieve its environmental and energy goals. This is the type of leadership needed to inspire others to take an active role protecting the environment, managing energy, and creating jobs in their communities. We are delighted to be part of this project.”

The 20-year solar power services agreement (SPSA) with SunEdison required no upfront capital from P&G. Electricity from SunEdison will be purchased by P&G at long-term, predictably priced rates.

Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. Announces Mr. Thomas Polich as Chief Operating Officer

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:12:00 GMT

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. (OTCBB:SNRY) executing on its corporate mission to Renew The Nation, and creating economic development through the sale and installation of Solar Thermal, Photovoltaic (PV) and other Solar technologies, today announced Mr. Thomas A. Polich, Esq. has joined the senior management team as Chief Operating Officer.

Mr. Polich will be responsible for execution of strategic development of distribution and sales networks and solar power projects. He will lead the streamlining of all operational procedures for near and mid-term markets, commercial, private vendors and suppliers, and enhance the company’s ability to monetize new business in a more efficient manner.

Mr. Polich has over 14 years of working experience in the photovoltaic (PV) industry covering all aspects of solar cell devices and PV systems. His solar experience includes research and development, technology development, manufacturing, legal, finance, training and consulting, domestic and international project development system management, system design and integration, market development and sales management. Most recently he served as VP North American Development of Clairvoyant Energy, Inc. Prior to Clairvoyant, he served as Chief Administrative Officer of Skypoint Solar, Inc., and has also served as Chief Legal Officer of DayStar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ/DSTI) and Corporate Counsel for Evergreen Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EVG). Mr. Polich earned a J.D. from the University of Denver, College of Law.

Mr. David Fann, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Energy Initiatives, stated, “Mr. Polich's extensive background in the photovoltaic (PV) market makes him an excellent asset to our experienced senior management team. SNRY will leverage Mr. Polich’s strong knowledge and existing industry relationships to facilitate growth as an emerging solar company. His streaming of our operations and expertise in the industry will help SNRY in achieving greater market share, increasing earnings and becoming a dominant company within the solar energy market.”

Aerojet, Solar Power, Inc. and SMUD Dedicate 3.6 Megawatt Solar System - Announce 2.4 Megawatt Addition at Aerojet Site

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:06:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif. & ROSEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aerojet, a GenCorp (NYSE:GY) company and Solar Power, Inc. (“SPI”)(OTCBB:SOPW), announced jointly today that the companies have entered into agreement to add an additional 2.4 megawatts to the single-axis tracker photovoltaic solar system currently installed at Aerojet’s Sacramento, California site. Construction of the 3.6 megawatt solar system at Aerojet’s facility was initiated in June of 2009. By expanding the system to six megawatts, the installation will be the largest single-site industrial location in California and one of the largest in the country. The site is located within the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD).

The announcement of an additional 2.4 megawatts was made during today’s dedication event and press conference hosted by Aerojet, SPI and SMUD. The event was held at the same location where California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order on Sept. 15, 2009 calling for 33 percent of energy consumed in California to come from renewable resources by the year 2020. Heralding the expansion of the solar array, Governor Schwarzenegger said, “The addition of this large-scale solar project is further evidence that reliable, renewable and pollution-free technology is here to stay. And this project is great news for California because it will help us meet our ambitious renewable energy and environmental goals, lead to more homes and businesses powered by sunshine and create new jobs in the clean-tech industry.”

“We like to say ‘At Aerojet, it really is rocket science,” said Scott Neish, president of Aerojet. “For sixty years, energy management has been at the root of our aerospace operations, and our venture into broader energy management programs demonstrates the real commitment Aerojet is making towards operating in a more sustainable fashion and reducing our company’s carbon footprint. This solar partnership is a concrete example of this commitment.”

The solar array at Aerojet is a ground-mounted system utilizing a single-axis tracking system that follows the sun’s course throughout the day to maximize electricity production. The additional array will utilize 11,712 SPI 205 watt modules mounted atop eight tracking arrays. When completed, the entire six megawatt system will cover more than 40 acres of the Aerojet site and utilize 22 tracking arrays and 29,344 SPI 205 watt photovoltaic modules. Based on its performance characteristics, the SPI 205 watt module is currently the number one ranked PV solar module in its class with the California Energy Commission.

“Prior to this addition, the Aerojet project was already one of the largest system installations in the U.S. this year, and the foundational portion of our growing portfolio and pipeline of multi-megawatt projects. With a 40 percent increase in the size of the system, the Aerojet site is now host to the largest single-site industrial installation in California,” said SPI’s CEO & Chairman, Steve Kircher. “Aerojet is a wonderful company to work with and we are very happy about the addition to the system. It speaks volumes about our ability to install a superior solution on-time, on-target and on-budget,” Mr. Kircher concluded.

Installation of the 2.4 megawatt system addition is expected to be completed in April 2010. SMUD is scheduled to interconnect the system to the power grid at that time. "SMUD is very proud to be a partner in this project,” said John DiStasio, SMUD General Manager and CEO. “We have a long solar heritage dating back to the early 1980s when we built the solar PV plant which is now the oldest megawatt-scale photovoltaic power plant continuously operating in North America. The Aerojet solar project is a huge benefit in terms of improving the environment of our community and the region as well as being a valuable part of increasing the stability and reliability of the SMUD electrical grid."

During its first year of use, the Aerojet system will offset 6,003 tons of carbon dioxide, 23.8 tons of sulfur dioxide and approximately 9.3 tons of nitrogen oxide that would have otherwise been produced using fossil fuel power production. The first-year net clean energy benefits equate to offsetting 11,825,814 automobile miles driven or the clean air benefits realized from planting 1,396,423 trees. With a system life expectancy of 25 years, the cumulative life-cycle environmental offsets for a system of this scope are significant.

Economic Future Brightens, Led By Green Technology

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:09:00 GMT

The U.S. economy finally experienced a little growth in the third quarter of 2009, taking a small 3.5 percent step in the right direction. While this modest growth doesn't have consumers or economists jumping for joy, it is considered a harbinger of sunnier days to come despite the fact that a surplus of new jobs [...]

Algae Turned Into High-temperature Hydrogen Source

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:00 GMT

In the quest to make hydrogen as a clean alternative fuel source, researchers have been stymied about how to create usable hydrogen that is clean and sustainable without relying on an intensive, high-energy process that outweighs the benefits of not using petroleum to power vehicles. New findings however, show that photosynthesis may function as that clean, sustainable source of hydrogen.

Cheap Energy with New Solar Device

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:46:00 GMT

Researchers and scientists are putting on endless effort to make the sources of energy clean and green. There are many devices in the market that run on solar energy. The alternative energy atmosphere is charged with anticipation and excitement. But till now one of the biggest dampeners in green energy scenario is the prices. [...]
Posted in: Future Energy, Inventions, Solar Power

A Cool Sip of Solar-Powered Home Brew

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:58:00 GMT

Solar power is poised to become the Renaissance man of the energy industry, taking over for petroleum and dirty coal. Solar talents already include heating homes, heating water, creating electricity, cooling homes, cooking food, charging cell phones and lighting landscapes, to name a few. And now, [...]

The Kerry-Boxer Climate Bill and How it Affects Solar Industry

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 07:02:00 GMT

“To create clean energy jobs, promote energy independence, reduce global warming pollution and transition to a clean energy economy.” That is the objective of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (S.1733), introduced into the Senate by Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA). It is the latest climate change legislation to come out [...]

New EV Charge Stations in Iowa

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:59:00 GMT

ELK HORN, IOWA INSTALLS COULOMB TECHNOLOGIES
CHARGING STATIONS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Four charging stations will be the first between Denver and Chicago

CAMPBELL, Calif., November 11, 2009 Coulomb Technologies the leader in networked electric vehicle charging stations today announced that Elk Horn, Iowa is the latest city to install Coulomb's ChargePoint® Networked Charging Stations. Iron Eagle Technologies, along with the Danish Windmill, AmericInn Motels, the Elk Horn Service Station and Coulomb's distributor Carbon Day Automotive have joined efforts to promote renewable energy products, energy conservation and carbon output reduction with the installation of four publicly available Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations.

A ribbon cutting for the charging stations, the first in the state of Iowa, will take place at the Danish Windmill in Elk Horn, Iowa, on November 12 at 2:00 PM. State officials and local business leaders will be speaking about the importance of building EV infrastructure for the future of transportation, and EV manufacturers will be represented, bringing along with them different types of EV's for viewing and rides. The event will be free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.

The charging stations will be the first of many along the I-80 corridor through Nebraska and Iowa as Iron Eagle Technologies looks to expand and build infrastructure for the EV movement. They are a compliment to Iron Eagle Technologies' new World EVAL program, which is a new line of business for testing and certification of electric vehicles and EV components.

Coulomb Technologies' ChargePoint Networked Charging Stations are open to all drivers of plug-in vehicles and provides authentication, management, and real-time control through multiple web-based portals for Hosts, Fleet Managers, Drivers, and Utilities. ChargePoint® Network unique features include: charging status by SMS text or email notification, location of unoccupied charging stations via smart phones, authenticated access to eliminate energy theft, authorized energizing for safety, and Smart Grid integration for utility load management with future V2G capabilities. The network of electric vehicle charging stations is accessible to all plug-in drivers by making a toll free call to the 24/7 number on each charging station, or signing up for a ChargePoint Network monthly access plan and obtaining a Smart Card. Other future payment options include using any smart (RFID) credit/debit card to authorize a session or using a standard credit or debit card at a remote payment station (RPS) to pay for charging sessions. To locate available charging stations, visit http://www.mychargepoint.net and click "Find Stations".

President and CEO of IET, Mike Howard noted, "Although it's not well known, the first successful electric vehicle was actually invented in Iowa by William Morrison. We've come a long way since then, and Iron Eagle Technologies is committed to putting the EV focus back in the heartland."

About Iron Eagle Technologies, Inc.
IET, along with established world-class calibration companies World Cal, Inc. and Liberty Labs, Inc., and also with Liberty Auto Restoration, Inc. offers testing and certification services for renewable energy products. In addition to safety and compliance testing for PV solar products and electric vehicles, long term reliability testing for solar arrays and EV fleets; IET also provides EV conversions and solar array design and installation services for commercial and residential applications.

About Coulomb Technologies, Inc.
Coulomb Technologies is the leader in electric vehicle charging station infrastructure with networked charging stations installed in municipalities and organizations worldwide. Coulomb provides a vehicle-charging infrastructure, which includes an open system driver network: the ChargePoint Network provides multiple web-based portals for Hosts, Fleet managers, Subscribers, and Utilities http://www.mychargepoint.net, and ChargePoint Networked Charging Stations ranging in capability from 120V 16A to 240V 80A AC charging to future 120kW DC charging, and all US charging stations are SAE J1772™ compliant. For more information, please visit http://www.coulombtech.com and follow Coulomb on Twitter at http://twitter.com/coulombevi.

Media Contact:
Anne Smith
Public Relations
Coulomb Technologies
408-313-8089

Mayor Gordon Launches Solar Phoenix; Nation’s Largest City-Sponsored Financing Program for Residential Solar Power

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:25:00 GMT

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mayor Phil Gordon will kick off Solar Phoenix, the nation’s largest city-sponsored residential solar financing program, in a ceremony today. The program, a collaboration among the city of Phoenix, APS (Arizona Public Service), National Bank of Arizona and SolarCity, is expected to allow up to 1,000 Phoenix homeowners to adopt solar power by the end of 2010.

As part of Gordon’s 17-point Green Phoenix plan, the Mayor will join program organizers to announce Solar Phoenix today at the historic Esser Property in the heart of the city’s Roosevelt Row. The house’s recently completed solar installation is representative of those that will be undertaken as part of Solar Phoenix.

Solar Phoenix is made possible by $25 million in financing from National Bank of Arizona, and includes options for low and moderate-income homeowners in Phoenix. The program allows qualifying Phoenix homeowners to install solar systems with no upfront investment and a small monthly payment that is lower than their previous electricity bills. Solar Phoenix also incorporates incentives from APS's Solar and Renewable Energy Incentive Program, which is approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission and funded by APS customers. Phoenix homeowners can sign up or find more information about the program by visiting www.solarphoenix.org.

Production on GM's Cadillac Converj Begins by 2013

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:37:00 GMT

Talk about a "Looker"-check out the Cadillac Converj. Gm has announced they're going to put it into production using the same technology as their Volt. This eye-catching electric vehicle is on schedule to begin production by 2013, barring unforeseen problems.

As you can imagine dealers are thrilled. A beautiful premium car at a premium price.

Big sister the Chevy Volt will begin production next year at this time. GM says buyers will be able to get 40 miles on electric power before the engine kicks in after the battery has drained 70%. After that the car will go several hundred miles.

More at The Detroit News.

Introducing…Andalay Solar!

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:35:00 GMT

Competition is heating up on the PV solar system market. Everyone is racing to produce panels that save money immediately, provide reliable performance and look good on homes. A solar panel that is attractive and delivers more reliable power for everyday savings is every homeowner's dream. With Andalay integrated solar power systems, [...]

Science Fiction or Reality? Japan Sets Goals for Space-Based Solar Power

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:27:00 GMT

Japan recently made serious strides toward leading exploration and implementation of space-based solar power. While many countries (US excluded) have set goals for domestic renewable energy production, Japan has literally set loftier goals, announcing ambitions to collect solar power in space by 2030. Photo Credit: Greenlaunches That solar power would be harvested as part of Japan's Space [...]

Falling Solar Stocks: What This Means for the Solar Industry and Homeowners

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 05:55:00 GMT

The solar industry took another blow last week. Evergreen Solar stocks were downgraded by major investment firms, and subsequently fell further to less than $1.50 per share. Evergreen's fall may be having the most direct effect in its home state of Massachusetts, but this decline is representative of a wider fall in solar stock prices, [...]

JA Solar Announces Third Quarter 2009 Results

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:43:00 GMT

SHANGHAI, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: JASO), a leading manufacturer of high-performance solar products, today announced financial results for its third quarter ended Sept. 30, 2009.

Third Quarter 2009 Results

Revenue in the third quarter of 2009 was RMB 1.3 billion ($193.3 million), an increase of 119.6 percent from RMB 600.7 million ($88.0 million) reported in the second quarter of 2009 and a decrease of 37.8 percent from RMB 2.1 billion ($310.7 million) reported in the third quarter of 2008. Total shipments in the third quarter were a record 177MW, compared with the second quarter shipments of 77MW, representing a sequential growth of 129.9 percent. Compared with the same period last year, shipment growth was 78.8 percent, up from 99 MW in the third quarter of 2008.

"We are pleased to report the highest quarterly shipments in our company's history, with increasing demand for our products worldwide," said Baofang Jin, JA Solar's chairman and CEO. "Our Q3 results demonstrate many advantages that JA Solar has, including scale, technological leadership, a strong brand, high quality products and a low cost structure, making JA Solar the preferred supplier to many customers," he said.

"We also gained significant market share during the quarter and made further progress diversifying our customer base. JASO is the top choice for companies that are purchasing multiple-megawatts of products in a short time, with requirements for high conversion efficiency at a competitive price," he said.

Total gross profit in the third quarter of 2009 was RMB 220.5 million ($32.3 million), or 16.7 percent, compared with RMB 68.3 million ($10.0 million) or 11.4 percent in the second quarter of 2009 and RMB 458.1 million ($67.1 million) or 21.6 percent in the third quarter of 2008.

Total operating expenses in the third quarter of 2009 were RMB 72.3 million ($10.6 million), compared with RMB 177.4 million ($26.0 million) in the second quarter of 2009 and RMB 24.8 million ($3.6 million) in the third quarter of 2008.

Included in the third quarter of 2009 operating expenses was a non-cash stock-based compensation charge of RMB 11.7 million ($1.7 million), compared with RMB 81.1 million ($11.9 million) in the second quarter of 2009 and a non-cash gain of RMB 17.2 million ($2.5 million) in the third quarter of 2008.

Operating income in the third quarter of 2009 was RMB 148.2 million ($21.7 million), compared with an operating loss of RMB 109.0 million (a loss of $16.0 million) in the second quarter of 2009 and operating income of RMB 433.3 million ($63.5 million) in the third quarter of 2008. Excluding the stock-based compensation charge, the company generated an operating income of RMB 159.9 million ($23.4 million) for the third quarter of 2009.

Earnings per diluted ADS in the third quarter of 2009 were RMB 0.66 ($0.10), compared with net loss per diluted ADS of RMB 1.21 (a loss of $0.18) in the second quarter of 2009 and net loss per diluted ADS of RMB 2.47 (a loss of $0.36) in the third quarter of 2008.

Operating cash flow for the third quarter of 2009 was a positive cash flow of RMB 288.6 million ($42.3 million), compared with RMB 194.7 million ($28.5 million) in the second quarter of 2009 and a negative cash flow of RMB 458.1 million ($67.1 million) in the third quarter of 2008.

At Sept. 30, 2009, JA Solar had cash and cash equivalents of RMB 1.7 billion ($256.1 million), compared with RMB 2.2 billion ($329.0 million) at June 30, 2009. The convertible bonds outstanding at Sept. 30, 2009 were RMB 1.7 billion ($253.5 million) and total long-term bank loans outstanding at Sept. 30, 2009 were RMB 680.0 million ($99.6 million). Total working capital at Sept. 30, 2009 was RMB 3.3 billion ($483.5 million).

Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2009 Guidance

"As demand for solar products has improved significantly across multiple geographies, we are seeing robust demand from our customers with improved visibility," said Mr. Jin.

Based on current customer orders, the company expects the fourth quarter of 2009 shipments to be in the range of 170MW to 200MW, and full year 2009 shipments to be in the range of 448MW to 478MW. The nameplate production capacity by year-end 2009 is expected to be 800 MW.

SunPower Completes 1-Megawatt Solar Tracking System at UC Merced

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:42:00 GMT

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) today announced the completion of a 1-megawatt solar power system on the University of California, Merced campus. The university expects the system, which SunPower will finance with Wells Fargo through a sale leaseback transaction, to produce two-thirds of the campus' electricity on summer afternoons, and 20 percent of its annual electricity needs.

"The solar array project exemplifies UC Merced's founding vision to become an international model for sustainable development and environmental stewardship," said Mary Miller, vice chancellor for administration at UC Merced.

The system utilizes SunPower solar panels, the most efficient solar panels on the market, with the SunPower T20 Tracker® system. The T20 Tracker follows the sun's movement during the day, increasing sunlight capture by up to 30 percent over conventional fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land use requirements.

"Colleges and universities in California are seizing the opportunity to help the state meet its growing energy demand and renewable energy goals," said Bill Kelly, managing director, at SunPower. "UC Merced understands the significant return on investment that SunPower systems deliver, and the added value of working with an experienced partner."

According to conversion formulas provided by The Climate Registry, the system is expected to remove more than 45 million pounds of carbon dioxide over the next 30 years. That is equivalent to the emissions displaced from removing more than 3,600 cars from California's roads. Under the terms of a long-term power purchase agreement, UC Merced will be entitled to the renewable energy credits and all environmental attributes associated with the system.

SunPower has more than 550 solar power systems in operation or under contract globally. Other California colleges and universities the company has built solar power systems for include California State-East Bay, Napa Valley College, Ohlone College, Mendocino College and the Los Angeles Community College District.

Treasure Valley Solar Evolves Mobile Solutions with New Strategic Partnership

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:41:00 GMT

BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Treasure Valley Solar, LLC entered into a strategic partnership with Zenware, Inc. to bring solar-powered mobile solutions to business and government sectors.

As mobile technology has improved the ability for field employees to work independently, this improvement has increased demands for power in the field.

"We now see companies deploy a rich blend of mobile technologies including PDAs, mobile printers, Bluetooth devices and more to their field workers. As the utilization of mobile devices increases as a part of a company's business solutions, these companies are confronted with a new challenge of keeping those devices charged so field workers can complete their remote tasks without interruption," commented Jody Sedrick, CEO of Zenware, Inc. "While battery capacities have increased with new technology, smaller devices mean that there are still limits on space and weight for the batteries. Having enough power to keep equipment charged when it is in the vehicle with the engine off is critical to the ongoing success of field operations," he continued.

Solar Fleet Elite(TM) by Treasure Valley Solar is a total mobile solar solution that powers mobile devices with clean and renewable energy from the sun. Wayne Whitt, Director of Customer Solutions, elaborated, "We mount solar panels right on the vehicle and link the panel through an advanced power control unit connected to your existing battery. This keeps mobile devices charged without having to idle the vehicle, saving money on expensive gasoline and reducing your emissions."

Treasure Valley Solar's solution takes proven solar technology and applies it to this growing mobile problem for less than the cost of most mobile devices. "We can now create a fully integrated and powered, green solution for our customers," commented Rod Puzey, VP Director of Operations for Zenware, Inc.

Satcon Selected for Largest Urban Solar Power Plant in the U.S.

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:37:00 GMT

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Satcon Technology Corporation (NASDAQ CM: SATC), a leading provider of utility scale power solutions for the renewable energy market, today announced that it has been selected for the 10-megawatt Exelon City Solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant, the nation's largest urban solar power plant, which will be built at a former industrial site in the West Pullman neighborhood on Chicago's South Side. The site, owned and operated by Exelon Generation, was designed and is being constructed by SunPower Corp., a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems.

The 41-acre solar facility will utilize Satcon Prism™, a fully customizable one megawatt medium voltage package complete with factory integrated step-up transformers, switchgear, and electronics. The Prism solutions will connect nearly 32,300 SunPower solar panels to the local utility and efficiently convert the sun's rays into enough clean, reliable electricity to meet the annual energy requirements of up to 1,500 homes per year.

“The Exelon City Solar project demonstrates solar power’s integration as a stable and viable core contributor into one of the country’s largest energy markets,” said Howard Wenger, president, global business unit at SunPower. “This project is a clear example of the unique demands of large scale solar power generation, and required that we design a system that is comprised of the industry’s highest performing and most reliable components. Satcon’s experience and expertise in large scale solar made them the natural choice for us.”

The Exelon City Solar plant will combine Satcon’s Prism solution, designed to deliver the highest levels of energy harvesting, efficiency and system uptime, with SunPower panels, which generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar panels and two to four times as much power as thin-film solar technology. The site will also use SunPower® Trackers, solar tracking systems that tilt toward the sun as it moves across the sky, increasing daily energy production by up to 25 percent.

Satcon Prism is built on the foundation of the industry standard setting PowerGate(R) Plus 500kW solar PV inverter platform, the most advanced and field proven large scale inverter solution, with over 400 megawatts delivered since 2005. The solution is delivered complete in an all-climate outdoor enclosure and ready to connect to the PV array and utility grid, enabling rapid installation through a modular prepackaged design.

“We are honored to be chosen as a key partner by SunPower to deliver our Prism solutions to Exelon City Solar," said Steve Rhoades, Satcon’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Satcon’s solutions have been used on some of the largest renewable energy sites in the world with hundreds of millions of grid connect kW hours delivered to date. Exelon City Solar showcases today’s best in class total system solutions, optimally designed to deliver the highest levels of reliable large scale solar power production.”

Konarka and Arch Aluminum & Glass Announce Unique Solar Curtain Wall Pilot Project

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:36:00 GMT

LOWELL, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Konarka Technologies, Inc., an innovator in development and commercialization of Konarka Power Plastic^®, a material that converts light to energy, today announced the company, along with Arch Aluminum & Glass Co., Inc, has launched the first curtain wall pilot project that will integrate Konarka Power Plastic into a wall structure at Arch’s office building in Tamarac, Florida. The solar panels, generating 1.5 kilowatts of power to the facility, are expected to be fully operational by year’s end. The technology leading installation will advance the development of a colored solar glass panel for integration into a wide range of buildings.

“The purpose of this project is to test the performance and robustness of our solar panel solution for a curtain wall application with a variety of glass and window configurations under a wide range of environmental and insolation conditions,” commented Dr. Terri Jordan, vice president of business development at Konarka. “The yielded data and information will guide our development of the first-of-its-kind vision application, a transparent, colored solar glass panel, and we are pleased to launch this first-class pilot installation with Arch.”

The testing facility includes east and south facing walls with both sunny and shadowed areas. The installation is a living laboratory with full modularity including the ability to simultaneously test a wide range of panels under various conditions. The curtain wall is an array of solar panels, glass and aluminum, with a peak output of 40 watts per panel. Yielded data will be shared with architects, building developers and owners as well as alpha and beta field testing customers selected in 2010-2011.

“Integrating ‘active solar glass’ into a wall structure allows us to make use of a typical manufacturing building by giving it the ability to generate its own energy,” commented Arch’s vice president of marketing, Max Perilstein. “This pilot facility and Konarka’s flexible, light-weight solar material are allowing us to move forward in the feasibility and development of a solar solution that will add tremendous energy-producing value to a wall structure.”

In May, the two companies announced product development plans to collaborate on building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), photovoltaic materials used to replace conventional building materials.

Konarka Power Plastic will be featured in the Exhibition at Greenbuild^® International Conference and Expo, November 10-12, 2009, Arch booth #5434 in Phoenix, Arizona. For more information, visit: http://www.greenbuildexpo.org.

GWS Technologies Announces Development of a 7 Megawatt Solar Farm in Arizona

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:34:00 GMT

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GWS Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:GWSC), an alternative energy company developing and marketing solar and wind-powered renewable energy products and solutions, announced today that it is working with Dominion Real Estate Investments, LLC to develop a 36-acre solar farm in Florence, Arizona. The project will cost approximately $28 million.

The company plans to install six megawatts of mono-crystalline fixed solar panels, as well as one megawatt of a concentrating solar power (CSP) system, as a beta test for use in the company’s future projects. Fixed solar panels have no moving parts, collect sunlight and convert it into electricity, while CSP systems use lenses or mirrors and tracking systems to focus sunlight into a small beam which is concentrated onto a photovoltaic surface.

“This project would be one of the largest projects in Arizona and, in conjunction with other projects, gives us 40 megawatts under development, which positions us to be a leader in solar farm development in the Southwest,” said GWS Technologies President Richard Reincke. “Forty megawatts generates enough electricity to provide power to approximately 12,000 homes,” Mr. Reincke added.

The Arizona Corporation Commission has set renewable energy standards mandating that regulated utilities generate at least 15 percent of their power from renewable resources such as solar and wind by 2025.

Premier Power Signs 300kW Contract for Solar Medical Facility in Lakewood, NJ

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:33:00 GMT

EL DORADO HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Premier Power Renewable Energy (OTCBB: PPRW), a global leader in the development, design, engineering and construction of solar power systems for commercial, government and utility markets in the U.S. and Europe, today announced that it has contracted with Soar Energy Partners, LLC to install a 300kW solar photovoltaic system at the CHE Medical Building in Lakewood, NJ.

The project will utilize the cylindrical thin film technology developed by Solyndra to maximize the use of both direct sunlight as well as diffused light and reflectivity off the medical building’s white roof. The solar system will save the medical center approximately $84,000 per year in utility costs, while generating approximately $190,000 annually in SREC revenue for Soar Energy Partners, LLC. Approximately 325 tons of greenhouse gases will be avoided in year one by using the solar photovoltaic system. Soar was advised on this transaction by Sunleit Partners, a renewable energy advisory firm. Sunleit and Premier Power are currently collaborating on several other project development opportunities.

Dan Czermak, CEO of Soar Energy Partners, stated, “We are pleased to be working with Premier Power on this important project to help the medical center continue its tradition of leadership in the Lakewood community. With Soar Energy Partners owning and operating the solar system they can take full advantage of the tax and renewable energy credits, while the medical center will be able to obtain electricity at a more affordable price than it would otherwise be able to obtain on its own.”

“We are very pleased that Soar Energy Partners selected Premier Power to develop the system for them,” said Stephen Clevett, Premier Power’s Executive Vice President. “Using solar power to assist the CHE Medical Center fulfill its mission to the community, complements our core mission as a company as well. We're very pleased to work with CHE Medical Center, Soar Energy Partners and Sunleit Partners to set a practical example of affordable, sustainable and clean energy for healthcare facilities nationwide.”

China Solar Power Purchases ThinSilicon

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:31:00 GMT

HONG KONG--(BUSINESS WIRE)--China Solar Power (Holdings) Ltd. (“CSP”), a manufacturer of thin film amorphous silicon photovoltaic modules, today announced that it purchased ThinSilicon, Inc., a leading developer of thin film manufacturing process technology based in Mountain View, CA. No financial terms were disclosed.

CSP’s initial manufacturing facility, located in the city of Yantai, China, recently commenced commercial operation. The plant, whose initial configuration will produce a-Si solar panels utilizing production equipment supplied by ULVAC, Inc. of Japan, will have an annual capacity of approximately 32MW once it reaches full production in 2010. The company recently broke ground on its second manufacturing facility, located in Jiangyin, China, and has entered into development and financing agreements with two other Chinese municipalities to build and operate additional production facilities within those cities. Upon completion of manufacturing facilities under construction and currently under development, CSP’s annual production capacity is expected to exceed 500MW, making it by far China’s largest manufacturer of thin film PV modules.

ThinSilicon was founded three years ago and has since developed a unique device and process technology that significantly boosts both panel efficiency and manufacturing throughput. This advanced technology enables modules to convert a greater proportion of the sun’s energy into electricity, allowing thin-film silicon solar modules to approach the efficiency of wafer-based modules at a much lower manufacturing cost. This will enable installations utilizing these modules to compete directly with grid-produced electricity and thereby help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The world must aggressively embrace solar energy to address its growing energy and environmental challenges,” said Charles E. Johnson, CSP’s Co-Founder and Chairman, and former Co-President of Franklin Templeton Investments. “China Solar Power’s mission is to become a major global, low-cost manufacturer of thin film PV modules. The environmental benefits of thin film technology over traditional mono and polycrystalline silicon are well documented. The acquisition of ThinSilicon will help position us as China’s lowest-cost manufacturer of PV modules, in addition to having the lowest carbon footprint per MW of any PV module manufacturer in China.”

Industry analysts estimate that thin film technology accounted for about 10% of the PV industry’s installed manufacturing capacity in 2008. With the emergence of new entrants and thin film’s inherent cost advantages, thin film’s share of the global PV market is expected to increase to 20 – 25% within the next 3-5 years.

“We’re extremely excited by the opportunity to join forces with China Solar Power,” said Jason Stephens, Co-Founder and principal scientist of ThinSilicon. “China Solar Power’s strong manufacturing foundation in one of the world’s largest PV markets will provide an excellent outlet and greatly accelerate the commercialization of our proprietary process and device technology.”

“This transaction represents a classic combination of Silicon Valley innovation with large-scale, low-cost Chinese manufacturing,” said Frank Liu, Co-Founder and current CEO of CSP. “To sustain our competitive cost advantage, we recognize the need to continually innovate in the R&D lab and on the manufacturing floor. We will remain vigilant in our search for technologies that have the potential to further enhance our low-cost position.”

Acro Energy Closes Los Angeles Acquisition and Announces Private Placement

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:29:00 GMT

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Acro Energy Technologies Corp. (TSX Venture: ART), a leading US solar integrator, announces that the TSX Venture Exchange has accepted for filing documentation relating to the October 28, 2009 Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”) between Acro Energy and Energy Efficiency Solar, Inc., a California corporation headquartered in Pomona, Calif. (“EE Solar”), and William Korthof, the sole shareholder of EE Solar, and that closing of the acquisition has been completed.

Under the Agreement, Acro Energy acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of EE Solar for consideration consisting of US$250,000 cash, a promissory note in the amount of $740,700, and 2,216,250 common shares issued from the treasury of the Company at a deemed value of CDN$0.24 per share.

The Company also announces that, subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, it has arranged a non-brokered private placement (the “Private Placement”) of approximately 1,190,000 units (the “Units”) at a price of CDN $0.185 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately CDN $220,800. Each Unit is composed of one common share in the Company and one share purchase warrant (the “Warrants”). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one additional share of the Company at a price of CDN$0.35 per Share for a period of two years following the closing of the Private Placement. The shares issued in connection with this non-brokered private placement will be subject to a four-month hold period.

The Company intends to utilize the proceeds from the Private Placement for ongoing acquisition efforts and for general corporate overhead purposes.