Akeena Solar Helps Irvine 'Go Green'

LOS GATOS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Akeena Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS), a leading designer and installer of solar power systems, today announced Kevin Blake, Southern California Regional Sales Manager, will chair the Irvine Chamber of Commerce new “Go Green Committee.”

The city of Irvine has recently seen an upswing in solar interest, most notably with the recent deal to build a 1.2 megawatts system on the rooftops of University of California, Irvine. However, this committee marks the first attempt at a joint community effort to green the city.

Kevin Blake has a long history in the renewable energy industry with over twenty-five years of experience developing, marketing and selling products and service solutions in both consumer and commercial markets. His recent work for Akeena Solar has been an extension of his commitment to the solar industry.

“Being named Chair of the Go Green Committee is an absolute honor and a task I feel compelled to take on,” said Mr. Blake. “With green house gas rising, and gas and electricity prices skyrocketing residents are looking for ways to handle the problem. Our first and most important job is to spread awareness and education on the significance of renewable energy, and what it can do to solve these issues.”

The committee currently boasts more than 20 members, including Shawn Thompson, Environmental Programs Coordinator for the City of Irvine. The committee had its first meeting on June 17, 2008 and will have them monthly. As Chair, Mr. Blake, will continue to build out the committee’s membership and spearhead the creation of more specialized subcommittees.

“Having an Akeena Solar representative serve as chair of this committee is a real testament to the company’s dedication to community outreach,” said Jacquie Ellis, President and C.E.O. of the Irvine Chamber of Commerce. “We are delighted to have Mr. Blake on board and look forward to working closely with him to green the city of Irvine.”