Green Microfinance To Fund Projects in India

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Green Microfinance (GMf™), located near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, and MicroEnergy International (ME) of Germany announced the launch of Energizing India™ at the recent 2008 AAAS Annual Meeting.

The microfinance institution, Evangelical Social Action Forum (ESAF), has contracted with Energizing India™ in its endeavor to provide micro energy products for its 232,310 clients (micro-businesses and families) in four Provinces in south India. Energizing India™ will provide clean energy products to ESAF’s clients and will establish working relationships among ESAF and various renewable energy providers.

GMf™ will assist in structuring micro loans for local enterprises and for low-income consumers. Such micro-financing will encourage the development of affordable and efficient renewable energy systems, not only for the quarter-million ESAF clients, but throughout a network of microfinance institutions in India.

An estimated total of 75 million Indian families are not on the national grid, including over two-thirds of all rural families. Rural families buy kerosene for lighting and gather and/or purchase firewood for cooking. For example, off-grid Indian families consumed over 180 million tons of wood in 2001.

Energizing India™ is part of a global network, Energizing Microfinance™, formed by Green Microfinance and MicroEnergy in 2007. It is led by microfinance specialists and energy engineers, who are experts on micro energy systems, which include solar, micro-hydro, micro-wind, and village-scale biofuel systems, which uses biomass not produced on productive forests, grassland or cropland.

“By providing loans for environmentally sustainable products to their low income clients, microfinance institutions can substantially contribute to greener communities, and to increased family business revenue. Most importantly, by working with organizations such as ESAF, we are directly nurturing and growing millions of green micro-businesses,” Elizabeth Israel, co-Founder and President of Green Microfinance said.

About Green Microfinance

Green Microfinance, a social business, advocates the use of sustainable energy by microenterprises and microfinance institutions, which contributes to global sustainable economic development and reduces the impacts of climate change on the poorest of the poor. We promote the use and distribution of renewable energy technologies, which helps reduce global warming, providing the poor with cleaner air and ultimately better health.

Suntech Releases Q4 Financial Results

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 20 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), one of the world's leading manufacturers of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules, today announced fourth quarter and full year 2007 financial results.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2007 Highlights(1)
-- Fourth quarter 2007 total shipments were approximately 110MW and total net revenues grew 82.5% year-over-year to $397.5 million.
-- Full year 2007 total shipments were approximately 364MW and total net revenues grew 125.1% year-over-year to $1,348.3 million.
-- On a non-GAAP(2) basis, Suntech's net income for the fourth quarter 2007 was $58.2 million or $0.34 per diluted American Depository Share (ADS). Each ADS represents one ordinary share.
-- On a non-GAAP basis, Suntech's net income for the full year 2007 was $201.0 million or $1.19 per diluted American Depository Share (ADS).
-- Suntech group's non-GAAP gross margin in its core Wafer-to-Module business was 23.3% for the fourth quarter of 2007 and 23.6% for the full year 2007.
-- Achieved second sequential quarter of positive operating cash flow due to improved inventory management and cash management in the fourth quarter of 2007.
-- Suntech's PV cell production capacity increased to 540MW as of year end 2007. The company is on track to reach 1GW PV cell production capacity by the end of 2008.

"I am pleased to report healthy revenue growth and exceptional market demand for Suntech's solar products in the fourth quarter," said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO. "We have a strong sales pipeline for the full year 2008 and expect robust demand to continue in 2009 as new solar markets in countries such as Italy, Greece and South Korea grow to complement demand in Germany, Spain and the U.S. Suntech is in a strong position to capitalize on this demand as we implement a range of cost reduction initiatives and we expect to simultaneously grow revenues and margins in 2009."

"In 2007, Suntech more than doubled revenues, successfully transitioned our 20% efficiency Pluto technology into pilot production, diversified our sales markets and expanded our product range. These achievements have laid a strong foundation for 2008 and we are confident that over the coming year our strategies for rapid capacity growth, low cost innovation, sales region
and product diversification, and balanced silicon procurement will increasingly differentiate Suntech as a leading player in the solar industry," Dr. Shi concluded.

Commenting on Suntech's silicon supply, Dr. Shi said, "We successfully developed a strong silicon supply pipeline of 530MW for 2008. Suntech's silicon outlook for 2009 is even more promising. Due to the silicon supply contracts we signed in the fourth quarter with Asia Silicon (Qinghai), Nitol Solar, Renesola and a Korean conglomerate, we believe that our silicon costs will fall more than twice as fast as our projections of our average sales prices in 2009. We are confident that this will enable Suntech to expand production and improve profitability in 2009."

Suntech increased PV cell production capacity from 420MW at the end of the third quarter of 2007 to 540MW at the end of 2007. Dr. Shi commented, "Our current capacity expansion is on track to hit our stated goal of 1GW PV cell production capacity by the end of 2008. The majority of this expansion will occur in the second half of 2008. To optimize our production volume and margins, approximately 60% of our full year production target of 530MW will be produced in the second half of 2008."

United Solar Ovonic Announces Supply Agreement With ITOCHU

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Solar Ovonic LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq: ENER) ("ECD"), announced today that it has entered into a multi-year agreement to supply its UNI-SOLAR(R) brand solar laminates to ITOCHU Corporation for use on large-scale rooftop installations on industrial and commercial buildings worldwide.

"The agreement with ITOCHU underscores our significant and growing presence in the global solar market," said Mark Morelli, president and CEO of ECD. "We applaud ITOCHU for recognizing both the economic and environmental benefits of UNI-SOLAR's lightweight, durable, and flexible thin-film PV laminates for rooftop installations."

"Since 2005, ITOCHU has been committed to growing our solar business as part of a broader commitment to environmental conservation and the development of alternative energy sources. Our agreement with UNI-SOLAR will help us further develop our solar energy business following our acquisition of California-based systems integrator and distributor Solar Depot in 2006. UNI-SOLAR laminates are a natural fit for us, because they can be integrated directly into roofing materials and provide a faster return on investment than competitive solar products," said Yutaka Kato, Chief Operating Officer of Industrial Machinery and Solution Division of ITOCHU Corporation.

UNI-SOLAR laminates offer superior cost-effective solutions for roofing applications because they are lightweight, durable, flexible, can be integrated directly with building materials, and generate more energy in real-world conditions. They are generally three-to-five times lighter than conventional solar modules (which use glass), offering an ideal solution for low-load bearing roof applications. UNI-SOLAR laminates can be installed without any structural changes or penetrations to the roof, and provide superior wind and seismic load performance compared with
conventional solar modules.

Honeywell Lands Lewis & Clark College Solar Energy Project

MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced that Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Ore. has awarded the company a solar project that is expected to save the school at least $200,000 in energy costs over the next 20 years. Under the agreement, Honeywell will install solar panels on the roof of the Pamplin Sports Center and sell the electricity the panels produce to the college. The power purchase agreement is the first of its kind for a college or university in Oregon.

"This project benefits the college and our community in many ways," said Thomas Hochstettler, president of Lewis & Clark College, which joined the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) in its effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create carbon neutral campuses. "It supports our vision toward sustainability, offers our students the opportunity to learn about green technology, and serves as a model for what I hope are many more projects like this all over Oregon. It's a great example in which the environment wins while the education and business sectors thrive."

The panels are expected to generate more than 97,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. They will produce enough power to meet approximately 15 percent of the electricity needs for a facility like the Sports Center. And they will deliver environmental benefits as well, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 1.8 million pounds over the course of the 20-year agreement. According to figures from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this is equivalent to removing more than 180 cars from the road for a year.

In addition to cost and environmental benefits, the solar installation is expected to provide an educational tool that faculty can use to teach students about renewable energy and conservation. Professors and students will be able see the real-time electrical output of the solar technology
through a Web portal and learn how the system operates.

Energy Trust of Oregon, a public-purpose organization that promotes the use of efficient energy technologies and renewable resources, will help fund part of the project. Honeywell also will work with Advanced Energy Systems, an Energy Trust Trade Ally based in Eugene, Ore., to install the solar panels.

"This type of agreement is a financially viable way for organizations to go green," said Kacia Brockman, solar program manager for Energy Trust of Oregon. "Lewis & Clark is leading the way for other schools and creating advocates for solar energy in the process."

The Honeywell project is the most recent example of the college's commitment to the environment. Along with being an ACUPCC signatory, Lewis & Clark faculty and students founded the recently held Focus the Nation environmental initiative, a one-day national "teach-in" aimed at bringing academia and government together to find global warming solutions. The college also meets more than 30 percent of its electrical energy requirements through a grassroots renewable energy advocacy program that funds the use of green power through voluntary student donations.

"By developing projects that have environmental and financial drivers, we will see the type of widespread adoption that will have a lasting impact on greenhouse gas emissions," said Kent Anson, vice president of Global Energy for Honeywell Building Solutions. "This solar installation will not only deliver long term value to Lewis & Clark, but also the greater Portland community."

Honeywell expects to install the solar panels and begin providing the
college with electricity by August 2008.

China Sunergy Announces Deal With Aleo Solar

NANJING, China, Feb. 18 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: CSUN), a specialized solar cell manufacturer based in Nanjing, China, today provided information on a supplementary agreement it recently signed with aleo solar AG ("aleo solar"). Under the Agreement, more than 20% of the supply will now be in the form of high-efficiency selective emitter ("SE") cells.

aleo solar, a leading German solar module manufacturer, signed an initial solar cell supply agreement with China Sunergy in October 2007. The total shipment volume under the new Agreement will remain at 30MW for 2008 but will now comprise of 7MW supplied in the form of SE cells. 2MW of the 10MW to be supplied during the first half of this year will now be in the
form of SE cells. The remainder of the cells will be shipped by the end of 2008.

Commenting on the Agreement, Allen Wang, CEO of China Sunergy, said: "SE cells represent a growing proportion of our total production and shipment levels, and we are very pleased with the response our customers have shown towards these products. As we continue to increase the overall ratio of SE cells shipped, and expand our SE production capacity, we expect to see an improvement in our 2008 gross margin as overall conversion efficiencies improve and our usage of polysilicon is reduced."

Commenting further, Jakobus Smit, CEO of aleo solar, added: "The efficiency levels China Sunergy is achieving with its SE cells are some of the best in the industry so we decided that these cells should form a greater proportion of our overall supply. Going forward we look forward to building closer ties with China Sunergy and view them as an important long-term supplier."

Bucks County Breaks Ground on Solar Manufacturing Project

FAIRLESS HILLS, Pa., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty today welcomed another major clean energy manufacturer to Bucks County's Keystone International Port Complex, saying Pennsylvania's commitment to renewable technologies is driving innovation and creating opportunities for the
state's workforce.

McGinty joined local officials and executives of AE Polysilicon, a manufacturer of high-purity polysilicon used in the solar power industry, to break ground on the company's new headquarters. Along with the manufacturing facility that is to be housed on the 32-acre parcel, the company plans to create 145 jobs, with another 60-plus construction and contract workers needed over the next year.

"Innovative companies like AE Polysilicon show how we can create good-paying jobs in a rapidly growing industry, while protecting the environment, as well," said McGinty. "Ever since Governor Rendell signed the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards law in 2004, we've enjoyed a tremendous influx of private investment and job growth from companies looking to capitalize on the new demand for advanced energy resources. That's good news for our economy, and people."

Pennsylvania has attracted more than $1 billion in economic growth since 2004 in projects that have helped create about 3,000 new jobs in rapidly growing industries such as wind and solar power, biofuels manufacturing, and other areas supporting these sectors. The portfolio
standards law is expected to drive an additional 850 megawatts of clean, renewable solar energy capacity to the commonwealth by 2021.

AE Polysilicon will help fill a supply void in the solar industry. The company will manufacture polysilicon, which is the raw material used to produce the solar cells and modules that convert solar energy into electricity. Currently there are less than 10 polysilicon manufacturers in the world.

Ultimately, said McGinty, this may bring about lower prices for solar energy products, increasing customer demand.

"Right now, the high cost of solar power makes it prohibitive to many homeowners and business owners," said McGinty. "While we continue pushing the Governor's proposal for solar rebates, having new companies like AE Polysilicon enter the market will help increase supplies of a very important component to solar panels; improve the economies of scale and efficiencies. Together, this will drive down prices making solar technology more affordable for everyone."

Governor Rendell's Energy Independence Strategy, a key component of the recently proposed state budget, will attract $3.5 billion in new investments to the state and create 13,000 new jobs. The plan will expand Pennsylvania's energy production and technology sectors, save consumers $10 billion in energy costs over the next 10 years, and reduce the state's dependence on foreign fuels.

One of the key components of the strategy, the Pennsylvania Sunshine Solar Initiative will provide production grants and consumer rebates to jumpstart the use of solar energy and attract solar manufacturing companies, such as AE Polysilicon, to the commonwealth.

"Global demand for clean energy and solar power in particular is booming; however, limited supplies of polysilicon has restrained the industry's ability to mass produce affordable solar cells and modules," said AE Polysilicon founder and President Dr. York Tsuo. "It is our vision to advance the competitiveness of the global solar energy industry by using cost-effective production technology. We are very excited to locate in Pennsylvania, with its strong commitment to developing a clean energy economy and its skilled workforce. Our product is the basic building block for the solar energy industry. We expect downstream manufacturers and solar projects to follow us to Pennsylvania."

The Governor's Action Team coordinated an $8.2 million funding package for AE Polysilicon, with the Bucks County Economic Development Corporation as sponsor. The new facility will be located in a Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zone. KOIZs work to develop a community's abandoned, unused, underutilized land and buildings into business districts.

BP Solar Announces Solar Sweepstakes Winner

TRACY, Calif., Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- And so they arrived, two by two -- 12 times to be exact! Stacey Watson counted as her BP Solar panels were being installed on her roof. Mrs. Watson is the winner of BP Solar's Evan Almighty sweepstakes which awarded her a free BP Solar Home Solutions(R) system for her home.

"We're so excited to be able to generate our own electricity right here on our home," said Mrs. Watson. "Everyone knows the cost of electricity always seems to be going up. Our solar system will help us reduce our electric bill while generating clean electricity." The 5 kilowatt solar system is expected to generate up to 75 percent of the family's annual electricity requirements.

BP Solar launched the sweepstakes in June 2007 with the release of the movie. The Watson's were selected in September 2007 from over 13,000 contestants who entered the sweepstakes through the movie's web site.

"We received a flood of attention and a response to the contest that exceeded our expectations," said Geoff Slevin, vice president of sales and marketing for BP Solar North America. "It demonstrates that more and more people are interested in shepherding new clean technologies like solar power onto their homes and into their lives."

Steve Carell, reprising his role as the polished, preening newscaster Evan Baxter of Bruce Almighty, is the next one anointed by God to accomplish a holy mission to build an ark in the comedy Evan Almighty. Evan Almighty is the first major motion picture comedy to Go Zero(SM) and "zero out" the carbon emissions generated through the production of the film. Evan Almighty is now available on DVD and HD DVD.

According to Syd Smith, senior VP for Universal Studios Partnerships, "We were eager to work with BP Solar for this film's promotion. The messages associated with the film's production and the business objectives of BP Solar were well aligned and offered to us the ability to reach and educate a broader audience."

The solar system was installed by First Light Energy based in Manteca, CA, a local BP Solar-trained and certified installer of solar electric systems.

Task Force To Aid In Ontario's 100,000 Solar Rooftop Project

QUEEN'S PARK, Feb. 15 /CNW/ - A new task force will help Ontario meet its target of 100,000 solar systems installed in households across the province. Premier Dalton McGuinty announced last June that Ontario was setting a target of 100,000 installed solar systems, as part of the government's "Go Green" climate change strategy.
Most Ontario households spend about 20 per cent of their overall energy budget on water heating - that's second only to space heating.
By supplementing existing electric or gas water heaters, solar thermal systems can dramatically reduce these costs. For example, each year a solar thermal system can save:


- $325 and 600 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions for a typical
family of four with an electric water heater
- $200 and 760 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions for a typical
family of four with a gas water heater

By comparison, an average car generates about one ton of greenhouse gas emissions a year.

The Solar Task Force members named today are:

- Elizabeth McDonald Executive Director, Canadian Solar Industries Association

- Brian Rosborough Director of Policy, Association of Municipalities of Ontario

- Rob McMonagle Senior Energy Consultant, Energy Efficiency Office, City of Toronto

- Larry Brydon Senior Account Executive, Reliance Home Comfort


"Residential solar thermal systems can cut household water heating costs by half or more and can play an important role in helping Ontario go green," said Energy Minister Gerry Phillips. "I am very pleased to see this task force begin its work and I look forward to its recommendations."
The task force has been asked to focus on how to expand the residential solar thermal market. Its recommendations will include actions that can be taken by the solar industry, governments at all levels, retail and financial institutions, and others who are active on conservation such as the electric and gas utilities and environmental organizations. The task force will report by October 31, 2008.

Suntech Opens Sales Office in South Korea

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Feb. 13 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP) one of the world's leading manufacturers of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules, today announced the opening of a sales office in South Korea to accelerate Suntech's business development and broaden local customer service capabilities.

Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO, said: "The South Korean market for solar energy has quickly developed into one of the key drivers for solar demand in Asia and we are very pleased to have established a base there. In a short time frame, we have put together a strong team consisting of four people with over 15 years of combined experience in the PV
industry. Our team will focus on building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional pre and post sales service. This office is integral to Suntech's plan of developing and maintaining key customers in diverse markets with long term growth potential."

South Korea is one of the foremost supporters of the solar industry, with attractive feed-in-tariffs of more than US$0.70/kWh and an impressive target of 1.3GW installed PV capacity by 2011.

"The government's strong commitment to renewable energy has set a firm foundation for long-term, sustainable growth of the solar industry in South Korea and Suntech is determined to support this goal through the supply of high quality and reliable solar products. With our growing team in South Korea, we target to expand our sales five-fold from 2007 to 2008," continued Dr. Shi.

In November 2007, Suntech collaborated with Hyosung Corporation to complete the first stage of a 3MW solar energy system for WEPCO (Korea Western Power Co., Ltd.). WEPCO is a subsidiary of KEPCO (Korea Electric Power Corporation), South Korea's largest power company.

"It is our hope that this new office will enable us to expand our collaborations with key partners such as WEPCO and Hyosung and further solidify our position as a leading supplier of PV modules in South Korea," added Dr. Shi.

Carmanah To Provide Solar LED Aviation Lights In UAE

VICTORIA, BC--(Marketwire - February 13, 2008) - Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX: CMH) has received an order through Dubai-based GESOLAR -- the company's authorized aviation distributor in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) -- to supply solar-powered portable airfield lights for privately-owned airfield applications within the region. The order, valued at more than $600,000, provides the tools to enhance visibility and safety at remote airfields using energy-efficient LED (light emitting diode) beacons powered by clean, cost-effective solar energy.

Carmanah's solar-powered LED airfield lights provide a wireless lighting alternative that is cost-effective, energy efficient, and easy to install wherever it's needed. With no trenching or cabling required, a two-person crew can install a temporary runway lighting system in less than an hour, or create a permanent installation in a single day. Free from any need for wiring, cables, generators, fuel or electrical grid access, Carmanah's remote-controlled airfield lights offer unparalleled convenience, reliability and performance.

For this upgrade, the order includes Carmanah's A704-5 runway edge lights, approach lights and threshold lights, as well as A601 taxiway lights. The order also includes the mounting hardware used to install the elevated runway edge lights, and wireless handheld radio remote control equipment for operating the lights through secure wireless communications from the ground or the air. For maximum versatility and reliability, the A704-5 lights include Carmanah's built-in energy management system that automatically aligns light levels with available energy resources to ensure the lights always have the power they need to operate effectively. A programmable interface allows the user to set on/off times, brightness levels, flash patterns, infrared or visible outputs and more.

According to Chris Zegger-Murphy, Business Development Manager for Carmanah's Aviation business unit, the order underscores an increased interest in solar aviation technology throughout the UAE and around the world. "Solar aviation lights offer significant advantages over traditional systems whether an airfield has access to grid power or not. But in remote locations where the nearest source of reliable grid-based electricity can be hundreds of miles away, it's really an attractive alternative," said Zegger-Murphy. "Solar aviation lights are automated, durable, reliable and very effective, and with the wireless capability of the new A704-5 light, they're more convenient than ever. It's a sound investment for all types of airfield applications."

Carmanah is one of the largest suppliers of self-contained solar LED airfield lights in the world. The company's advanced airfield lights have been field-proven to endure challenging environmental conditions including extreme temperatures, poor solar conditions, sandstorms, and flooding. With thousands of systems in operation, Carmanah provides the tools for a full range of airfield applications, including permanent primary lighting, temporary lighting during airfield construction or upgrades, emergency backup lighting, as well as expedited portable lighting during emergency or humanitarian aid operations.

Carmanah solar LED aviation lights are available now from Carmanah Technologies Corporation. For more information, visit www.solarairportlights.com.

Astralux Power Systems Expands Energy Partner Program To Denver

BOULDER, CO--(Marketwire - February 13, 2008) - Astralux Power Systems, a Division of Astralux, has announced that they will be expanding their Energy Partners program to the greater Denver area. This program, which will be introduced at the 2008 Denver Garden and Home Show (February 16 - 24 at the Colorado Convention Center), gives owners of "solar feasible" homes and businesses the opportunity to install solar energy with virtually no money out-of-pocket. The program also provides a complete energy efficiency solution -- providing a full energy audit, low energy light bulbs, and a comprehensive monitoring report to ensure the productivity of the solar energy system.

A Boulder, Colorado-based company, Astralux has been rapidly expanding their program throughout the state. With local financial partner Bank of the West, Astralux provides a turnkey financing solution -- a catalyst to the widespread adoption of solar energy. "Our goal from day one was to drive solar energy beyond the 'early adopters' to benefit any rebate-eligible home or business owner," says Jesse Malcomb, Director of Operations, "and the response thus far has been remarkable."

"We want the community to understand that 'going solar' is now a sound financial investment," explains Fred T. Martin, Director of Sales and Marketing. "The Astralux Energy Partners Program™ was developed with the philosophy that our communities want to help the environment, but it must also make financial sense."

Astralux is currently in the process of expanding their programs into new 'solar friendly' states, such as Arizona, Texas, and Nevada in 2009 and New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York by 2010. "The Power Systems group is dedicated to bringing solar energy to the mass market," says Dr. Rande Treece, CEO of Astralux, "and our Energy Partner programs allow this widespread market to adopt this wonderful technology with practically any budget."

Edward Norton Helps Low-Income Families Go Green

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11 (Solar Energy News) -- Actor, director and Enterprise Community Partners Board Trustee Ed Norton, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, dignitaries and formerly homeless residents gathered today at 9:30 a.m. at the St. George Hotel in downtown Los Angeles to celebrate the first solar electric system installation for a low-income, multiunit building on the
West Coast. Celebrating another milestone of the BP Solar Neighbors Program(TM), special ceremonies at the St. George Hotel in L.A.'s Skid Row honored an effort started in 2003 to combine celebrity power with green innovations for communities in need.

"The St. George project is a perfect example of the great things that happen when government, community organizations, business and philanthropy work together," said Mayor Villaraigosa. "This is an innovative, creative project, and it's an exciting step both to making Los Angeles the greenest big city in America and to confronting our city's homelessness challenge."

The historic St. George, architecturally refurbished and re-opened in 2004, provides permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless residents and is one of several buildings owned and operated by Skid Row Housing Trust. It is the first West Coast multiunit site chosen as part of the BP Solar Neighbors Program which was established to help low-income families
by lowering their utility expenses while avoiding environmental impact through the use of clean solar power.

"Enterprise has a long history of collaboration with the Skid Row Housing Trust. We've helped them develop architecturally realized residences that provide not only critical supportive services but a sense of pride and dignity that restores confidence and sustains recovery for
people who are formerly homeless," said Jeff Schaffer, Enterprise Southern California director. "We are proud to help add this green innovation to an already innovative refurbishment."

Through the program, BP donates a solar electric system to a low-income family when a celebrity purchases a system for installation. Over the years, BP and Enterprise have successfully installed solar systems on 42 low-income single-family homes in South Los Angeles and a similar multiunit building in New York City. In Los Angeles, the program also receives
additional funding from the South Coast Air Quality Management.

"Many people perceive environmentally friendly practices as costly and available only to the wealthy," said Mr. Norton, the leading force behind the creation of the Solar Neighbors Program and grandson of Enterprise Co-Founder James Rouse. "We need to expand our awareness of the many ways environmentally sustainable development and construction can apply to affordable housing. The installation of the BP solar panels on the St. George is a great example of a dynamic solution to our intensifying economic and environmental crisis."

After celebrity-sponsor Will Ferrell installed a BP Solar system on his home, an 8.4 kW system consisting of 48 solar panels was presented to the St. George. The system is expected to generate savings of approximately $2,000 annually in utility expenses for the Skid Row Housing Trust.

"Every home powered by solar energy helps us keep our air clean and helps to stop global warming. The BP Solar Neighbors' project has installed dozens of solar systems and demonstrated the benefits to homeowners of investing in this technology," said Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti. "Now, the St. George Hotel project will demonstrate the
feasibility of solar powering multi-family housing."

Through the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's Solar Incentive Program, the project also benefits from $30,000 in rebates, which will be put back into the program to fund future solar installations.

"The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is proud to be part of this historic renewable effort," said LADWP Chief Executive Officer and General Manager H. David Nahai. "It demonstrates our commitment to clean, renewable energy and expanding opportunities for low-income customers and communities. The LADWP has expanded its solar program, as well as its energy efficiency and is moving forward to having 20 percent of our energy from renewable sources by 2010."

"Through the BP Solar Neighbors Program, we are able to help low-income families reduce their energy bills and their impact on the environment through the use of solar power," said Geoff Slevin, vice president of sales and marketing for BP Solar. "We thank Will Ferrell for his commitment to a cleaner environment and for making possible the donation of the solar system to the St. George Hotel."

Skid Row Housing Trust is recognized as a national leader for its "housing first" concept that recognizes permanent supportive housing as a successful solution for the formerly chronically homeless. The Trust and its architects have won several awards for innovative designs.

Enterprise is a leading provider of the development capital and expertise it takes to create decent, affordable homes and rebuild communities. For 25 years, Enterprise has pioneered neighborhood solutions through public-private partnerships with financial institutions, governments, community organizations and others that share our vision. Enterprise has raised and invested $8 billion in equity, grants and loans to help build or preserve 225,000 affordable rental and for-sale homes to create vital communities. Enterprise is currently investing in communities at a rate of $1 billion a year. Visit http://www.enterprisecommunity.org and
http://www.enterprisecommunity.com to learn more about Enterprise's efforts to build communities and opportunity.

BT Announces Solar PV System For American Headquarters

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- BT today announced it has entered into an agreement to begin construction next month of an approximately 500 kW-AC solar photovoltaic system for its North American corporate headquarters site, located in the City of El Segundo, California. Once the system is fully operational by late summer, BT expects to reduce
carbon emissions by 642,000 pounds (291.2 metric tons) annually as well as decrease its overall power costs for the site in future years. The system has qualified for rebates under the California Solar Initiative.

Through a competitive bidding process, BT selected EI Solutions to design the solar system, procure the equipment, obtain governmental approvals as well as install, monitor and maintain the system. The system will be purchased, owned and operated by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP), with the solar- generated electricity sold to BT under a Power Purchase Agreement. BT will purchase 100 percent of the energy output of the system for a fixed term, which will equate to approximately 15 percent of BT's energy requirements for the site. Broadreach Capital Partners, the site's owner, has also been a key participant in BT's efforts to bring renewable
energy to its Americas' headquarters location.

The solar power system is designed to maximize energy production, with the vast majority of the system's approximately 2,000 solar modules mounted on top of a state-of-the-art, elevated single-axis tracking system to be installed above the site's south facing parking lot. Once completed, the system will be among the largest of its type in Southern California and is
expected to generate approximately 917,000 kWh per year. According to Environmental Protection Agency figures, the solar power system is expected to reduce carbon emissions equivalent to removing 63 automobiles from operation for one year or planting 243 acres of trees or powering more than 150 average-sized California homes for 12 months.

"Our BT Americas' headquarters site in California was an ideal location for a solar power system due to its large, unobstructed, south-facing areas," said Michael Boustridge, president, BT Americas. "That, factored with BT's overall global climate change strategy, the pressing need for our industry to cut carbon emissions and the leadership of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the City of El Segundo's mayor and officials, helped us easily decide to pursue a solar plan for our energy requirements at the site."

"We are very excited to be working with BT, a company that has consistently shown its leadership in working to reduce its environmental impact," said Andrew Beebe, president of EI Solutions. "By embracing solar as an energy alternative, BT is setting a great example of how a company can be environmentally responsible in an economically sound manner."

"The BT project is an exciting and innovative example of how proactive companies can embrace clean energy. This project will be a showcase, and we look forward to great success with BT and EI Solutions," said Alexander v. Welczeck, CEO of Solar Power Partners. "SPP is proud to help enable this
solution and to be working closely with BT to help them achieve their goals."

Since 1996, BT has reduced its UK carbon emissions by 60 percent and is committed to extending that reduction to 80 percent (against 1996 baseline) by 2016. As part of its global climate change strategy, BT announced in October plans to develop wind farms aimed at generating up to 25 percent of its existing UK electricity requirements within the next nine years. The wind farm project represents the UK's largest corporate wind power project outside of the energy sector. Additionally, BT continues to implement reductions in its overall energy consumption globally, particularly in data centers through techniques such as server consolidation, virtualization and redesign of power supplies.

Long Beach Extends Community Solar Program

LONG BEACH, Calif., Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Long Beach homeowners are so hungry for solar power that they successfully lobbied leading installer SolarCity to extend its Community Solar Program to Feb. 29. Not to be left in the shade, Signal Hill residents are also eligible to participate.

In all 307 Long Beach and Signal Hill residents have attended free solar seminars outlining SolarCity's Community Solar Program, which enables residents and businesses who band together to purchase solar power systems at deep discounts. The residents in the program are inches away from the goal at which time the entire community will receive up to 30% off of what
they would pay as if they purchased as individuals.

"The people in our community care deeply about our environment and share a vision to make a difference," said Mary Barton, one of more than two dozen residents who have already purchased installations and a champion of the local effort. "At the same time, we want to save money on our electric bills. This Community Solar Program enables us to do both."

The local acceptance of solar power reflects a nationwide trend. Residential photovoltaic installations more than quadrupled to 11,600 between 2002 and 2007, according to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.

Still, purchasing solar power now makes the most economic sense because state rebates on the systems are rapidly declining. Federal tax credits are due to expire on Dec. 31, 2008. With both incentives in place, the return on investment is around 10 years.

In addition, the City of Long Beach announced this week that it has reduced its permitting fee by more than 20 percent for photovoltaic systems of up to 6 kilowatts. The fee is now $514.01.

If 100 residents participate in SolarCity's program, Long Beach is likely to increase its number of single-family home installations roughly eightfold over last year. This would annually displace 150,000 pounds of carbon dioxide -- the chief global warming gas -- which is equal to the weight of 300 sport utility vehicles each year!

Like Barton, who will sharply lower her electric bill with solar power, any Long Beach or Signal Hill homeowner who requests a free solar evaluation by Feb. 29 is eligible for the Community Solar Program.

Upcoming Long Beach workshops will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, 3-4 p.m., at the Dana Branch Library, 3680 Atlantic Ave., 90807; and Tuesday, Feb 12, 6-7 pm, at the El Dorado Neighborhood Library, 2900 Studebaker Road, 90815. Signal Hill seminars will be announced shortly and listed on the SolarCity website: http://www.solarcity.com.

SolarCity, founded in 2006 with backing from Elon Musk, co-founder of PayPal and chairman of Tesla Motors, has held a total of 22 Community Programs in Northern and Southern California, including programs in Malibu and Santa Monica.

Lyndon Rive, SolarCity Founder and Chief Executive Officer, praised the residents of Long Beach for uniting for cleaner air and noted how times have changed since petroleum was discovered in 1921 in Signal Hill, which eventually became one of the world's richest oil fields.

"These two communities are riding the very edge of the solar wave in Southern California," Rive said. "This will be a watershed program for the region."

Gaiam To Offer IPO For Solar Subsidiary

BROOMFIELD, Colo., Feb. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gaiam, Inc. (Nasdaq: GAIA) announced today that it has determined that an initial public offering of a minority interest in Gaiam's Real Goods Solar subsidiary (currently 100% owned) would optimize Real Goods Solar's potential and create additional value for Gaiam shareholders.

A registration statement has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to a proposed initial public offering of shares of Real Goods Solar's Class A common stock. All shares to be sold in the offering will be offered by Real Goods Solar. ThinkEquity Partners LLC will be acting as the lead manager with Canaccord Adams Inc. and Broadpoint Capital, Inc. as co-managers. Real Goods Solar has reserved the Nasdaq ticker symbol "RSOL."

The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the preliminary prospectus may be obtained from ThinkEquity Partners LLC.

A registration statement relating to Real Goods Solar securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission but has not yet become effective. Securities may not be sold nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time that the registration statement becomes effective. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

Real Goods Solar is a leading residential solar energy integrator. Giving effect to recent acquisitions, Real Goods Solar ranks number one in California, which currently represents approximately two-thirds of the total U.S. market for grid-connected solar energy systems. Real Goods Solar offers turnkey services, including the design, procurement, installation, grid connection, monitoring, and maintenance of solar energy systems. Real Goods Solar has 30 years of experience in residential solar energy, beginning with the sale in 1978 of the first solar photovoltaic, or PV, panels in the United States. Real Goods Solar's predecessors were acquired
by Gaiam in 1999 and 2001.

Stellar Solar Gets a Makeover

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Stellar Solar, a leading provider of solar power solutions today unveiled their new logo, tagline and website, designed to better reflect their status as a
premier provider of solar solutions to the residential and commercial markets in California.

"The new logo and website were designed to appeal to both residential and commercial customers and to provide a foundation for our future integrated marketing efforts," said Michael Powers, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Stellar. He added, "We wanted our logo and website to reflect Stellar as a true, California-based solar provider that can make going solar as easy as possible and as our tagline says, provide power, pure and simple."

The logo and website were designed by Artichoke Creative, an Encinitas, CA-based integrated marketing agency with extensive experience in the renewable energy sector. They will also be launching a marketing campaign that will feature a balanced mix of digital and traditional mediums including banner ads, email marketing, direct mail, event sponsorship, radio, print, and social networking.

BP Solar and OCR Solar & Roofing Working Together For a Greener California

VACAVILLE, Calif., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- OCR Solar & Roofing and BP Solar, a global leader in solar energy, today announced an expanded agreement to provide turn-key solar installations to production homebuilders throughout Northern and Central California. Within the framework of the expanded agreement, valued at over $10 million, OCR Solar & Roofing will receive the exclusive right to offer BP Solar's market-leading EnergyTile roof-integrated solar modules to production homebuilders in Northern and Central California. In addition, OCR Solar & Roofing will also offer BP Solar's low profile Integra(R) framing system for asphalt shingle roofs.

Originally purchasing solar modules under a nonexclusive supply agreement, OCR has seen an increase in its solar revenue by over 300% since offering BP Solar's products, and the company expects the growth rate to more than quadruple in 2008.

"Our agreement with BP Solar is built on a strong relationship which will strengthen the support that we provide to our homebuilder customers," said Aaron Nitzkin, vice president, Solar Division for OCR Solar & Roofing. "It is a great time in California for new home renewable energy solutions, and we plan to aggressively educate homebuilders and consumers this year on
the impact and significance of solar energy."

Unlike most solar providers that just install solar panels, OCR installs both the roofing and solar electric systems. OCR provides this turn-key solution to many of the region's leading homebuilders, including Christopherson Homes, Pinn Brothers Fine Homes, Ponderosa Homes, and Tim Lewis Communities.

"This key relationship with OCR allows us to further our goal of becoming a leading provider of solar electric systems on new homes in California," explained Geoff Slevin, vice president of Sales and Marketing for BP Solar, North America. "We are confident that with our solar expertise and products along with OCR's strong roofing reputation, we will be able to make that happen."

The agreement is designed to support new homebuilders by offering roof-integrated solar electric systems for energy-efficient homes. Benefits to the homeowner include dramatically reduced or even eliminated electric bills, improved comfort, federal tax credits and an aesthetically pleasing roof design.

Emcore Lands Multi-Year Deal To Provide Solar Concentrator PV Systems

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- EMCORE Corporation (Nasdaq: EMKR), a leading provider of compound semiconductor-based components and subsystems for the broadband, fiber optic, satellite, and terrestrial solar power markets, announced today that it has signed a memorandum of understanding for the supply of between 200 MW and 700 MW of
solar power systems that are scheduled for deployment in utility scale solar power projects under development in the southwestern region of the United States. EMCORE will supply and install turnkey solar power systems utilizing EMCORE's concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems developed at its Albuquerque, NM facility. The project developer, SunPeak Solar, is
securing land and grid access throughout 2008 and project construction is expected to begin in early 2009. The principals of SunPeak Solar have been successful developers of wind power projects in North America and Europe in the past decade, are well funded through the sale of certain wind power assets, and are now turning their attention to large-scale terrestrial
solar energy projects in the US.

This agreement is not expected to contribute revenues until 2009 and is dependant on the renewal of the federal investment tax credit (ITC) extending into 2009 and beyond.

David Rennie, CEO of SunPeak Solar, stated "We have conducted comprehensive research on different technologies and products, including concentrating solar thermal and various solar photovoltaic solutions, and concluded that the solar CPV represents the best solution based on the project requirement and our experience. CPV is our preferred technology in many locations throughout the desert southwest. CPV has the advantage of requiring very little water during operation and CPV systems can be installed with minimal impact on the desert environment. We are very impressed that EMCORE has thought through the complete system and what is needed for successful deployments on a large scale." Mr. Rennie also added, "We are pleased to partner with EMCORE to ensure the capacity and cost requirements for these projects as EMCORE is the only vertically integrated CPV product provider and has the capacity and commitment for such projects. And we are encouraging our congressional delegation to extend the investment tax credit for renewables, which was left out of the recent energy bill, and keep the U.S. competitive in renewable energy policy with the rest of the world."

"We are very pleased to expand our deployment of utility-scale solar power systems in support of SunPeak Solar's projects," said Earl Fuller, Vice President and General Manager of EMCORE's Solar Power Systems division. "EMCORE's CPV systems are optimized for the lowest cost-per-watt of any utility-scale photovoltaic power system. The use of our gallium arsenide based multi-junction solar cells has the added advantage of retaining high efficiency even in the hot summers in the desert southwest. EMCORE is committed to continuous improvement on the performance of terrestrial solar cells and the cost structure of the CPV system," added Mr. Fuller.

EMCORE's CPV systems are powered by our industry leading high-efficiency compound semiconductor-based multi-junction solar cells that operate with 500x concentration to provide a lower cost-per-watt than competing technologies. CPV improves the performance of compound
semiconductor-based solar cells, avoids the supply constraint that currently exists with silicon-based solar modules, and provides a lower cost-per-watt. EMCORE's continued investment in high-efficiency CPV systems for utility-scale photovoltaic power systems will enable the development of a new alternative energy resource worldwide.

Trina Solar and Solar Access Dedicate Netherlands Solar PV System

CHANGZHOU, China, Jan. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trina Solar Limited (NYSE: TSL) ("Trina Solar" or the "Company") and SolarAccess announce the inauguration of 2007's largest PV system installation in the Netherlands, a roof integrated system at the new Amsterdam Library (Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam).

The project was carried out by SolarAccess, an international provider of PV installations with business in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and France. Trina Solar, a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic products from the production of ingots, wafers, and cells to
the assembly of PV modules, supplied over 450 units of their 180W solar modules needed for this key project to SolarAccess as part of the long-term relationship between both companies.

"We are very pleased to have supplied high quality modules of approximately 82kW in power for this landmark project that SolarAccess carried out for the new Amsterdam Library, representing the largest PV project installed in the Netherlands in 2007," remarked Jifan Gao, Trina Solar's Chairman and CEO. "We are delighted to work with SolarAccess to promote Trina Solar's brand in the Netherlands, a market we view as having great potential".

This PV system installation at the Amsterdam Library represents an important milestone for both Trina Solar and SolarAccess in Europe, as they continue their path to become leaders in the growing PV sector.

Walmart and Sunpower Announce Solar Power Project

CHINO, Calif., Jan. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) and SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWR), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced completion of a 390-kilowatt solar power system at the Sam's Club store in Chino. The store is the first of seven Wal-Mart facilities in California to receive high-efficiency SunPower solar power systems, totaling 4.6 megawatts, and is part of a major purchase of solar power from SunPower and other solar power providers for approximately 22 Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Clubs and distribution centers in Hawaii and
California. The stores included in the pilot project are expected to achieve savings over their current utility rates as soon as the first day of operation.

"We are very pleased with SunPower's progress on the Chino solar project," said Kim Saylors-Laster, vice president of energy for Wal-Mart. "Wal-Mart is moving forward with its commitment to conserve energy, reduce energy costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions -- and this project is a step in the right direction."

"Leading companies like Wal-Mart are turning to solar power because it makes good business sense and supports their environmental initiatives," said Tom Werner, chief executive officer of SunPower. "Wal-Mart's SunPower solar power systems are financed through our SunPower Access(TM) program, which is a power purchase agreement that allows our customers to take
advantage of the environmental and financial benefits of solar power with no upfront capital costs. The solar electricity will be competitively priced against retail rates, providing Wal-Mart with a long-term hedge against rising peak power prices."

Each solar power generating system installed may vary, but on average it can provide up to 30 percent of the power for the store on which it is installed. "By Wal-Mart's estimates, installing the solar power systems will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 8,000-10,000 metric tons per year," said David Ozment, director of energy for Wal-Mart. The solar power pilot project is a major step toward Wal-Mart's goal of being supplied 100 percent by renewable energy.

On the roof of Wal-Mart's Chino store, SunPower installed the proprietary SunPower(R) T-10 solar roof tile, which tilts at a 10-degree angle to increase energy capture. SunPower solar panels, which are 50 percent more efficient than conventional solar panels, are used to maximize
power generation and financial savings, especially on rooftops with constrained space.

Ecofin Partners With Solel Solar Systems

LONDON, January 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Ecofin Limited ("Ecofin"), a London based investment manager specialising in the utilities and infrastructure sectors with approximately $5,400 million of assets under management, is pleased to announce a major new investment in Solel Solar Systems Limited ("Solel").

Ecofin, on behalf of its funds and certain co-investors, has invested $105 million in shares of Solel through a combination of subscription for new equity and secondary share purchases. Solel will be undertaking an additional round of capital raising, following which Ecofin will hold a very significant minority stake in the company.

Solel specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of solar fields and critical solar field components for large scale power generation. Solel is the world's largest solar thermal company with over 20 years experience in the sector. It specialises in the commercially proven technology - parabolic troughs which have been operational since 1985 in the Mojave Desert. These nine solar energy generating system ("SEGS") plants produce 354MW of clean, renewable electricity per annum using Solel equipment and technology. They supply the needs of half a million consumers and eliminate the need for 2 million barrels of oil a year.

Solel is currently in the process of constructing 150MW of solar thermal plants in Spain. Research and development carried out by Solel's team of engineers has improved the output of the solar thermal field by more than 40% compared to the original SEGS plants. In addition, Solel has signed a power purchase agreement with the Pacific Gas & Electric company to supply a solar thermal power field of 553MW in California and is in discussions with a number of other utilities about similar projects.

Solel employs approximately 300 staff and its headquarters and R&D centre are based in Bet Shemesh, Israel. It has subsidiary offices in Spain and the United States.

Commenting on the transaction, Bernard Lambilliotte, Ecofin's Chief Investment Officer said:

"We are delighted to make this investment in Solel and look forward to supporting the company through a period of rapid growth. The use of parabolic troughs in the creation of solar thermal power plants represents a real opportunity to develop a utility scale solution to renewable energy. Solel has the longest track record in this industry, having built the original SEGS plants, and we fully support the entrepreneurial approach to reducing the cost of solar thermal power followed by their CEO Avi Brenmiller and his team."

Avi Brenmiller, CEO of Solel also commented:

"We are very pleased to welcome Ecofin as a long term shareholder and also onto the Board of Solel. We look forward to leveraging Ecofin's specialist utility and financial skills to continue the development of the Company. Ecofin has a strong track record of successful investment in the
renewable sector and we welcome its experience and input on how best to achieve Solel's goals."

About Ecofin

Ecofin is an investment and advisory firm, founded in 1992, which specialises in the global utility and infrastructure industries. The firm is based in London and provides discretionary fund management services and advice to institutional and corporate clients.

Ecofin is an independent firm owned by its principals and private investors. The firm's principal operating company, Ecofin Limited, is an English company which has offices in London and New York. Ecofin is authorised and regulated by the U.K. Financial Services Authority and is
also SEC registered. EFM Limited is an associated company based in Jersey, with offices in Geneva and Hong Kong. Further information on Ecofin can be found in its web site http://www.ecofin.co.uk.