First Solar Sets World Record For Solar Cell Efficiency

TEMPE, Ariz. & PERRYSBURG, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced it set a new world record for cadmium-telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic (PV) solar cell conversion efficiency, achieving 18.7 percent cell efficiency in tests confirmed by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The record-setting cell was constructed at the Company’s Perrysburg, Ohio factory and R&D center using processes and materials – including the glass substrate – that are designed for commercial-scale manufacturing.

“This achievement showcases the huge potential of CdTe compared to other PV technologies and highlights the performance gains we continue to achieve thanks to our consistent and strong investment in R&D,” said Raffi Garabedian, First Solar’s Chief Technology Officer. “We are confident the advanced technologies and processes we developed for this record-setting cell will further enhance the performance of our future production modules and power plants.”

First Solar has continued to transfer its success in the R&D lab into its commercial modules, increasing its average production module efficiency to 12.9 percent in the fourth quarter of 2012, up 0.7 percentage points from 12.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2011. The Company’s lead line was producing modules with 13.1 percent efficiency during the fourth quarter, up from 12.6 percent in the same period a year ago.

Since it began commercial production in 2002, First Solar has produced more than 90 million of its advanced thin-film solar modules with a capacity of over 7 gigawatts (GW), enough to provide clean electricity for approximately 3.5 million homes and displace 4.7 million metric tons of CO2 annually, based on world averages. If laid end-to-end, the modules would circle the equator nearly three times. First Solar utilizes a continuous manufacturing process which transforms a sheet of glass into a complete solar module in less than 2.5 hours, contributing to the industry-leading energy payback time and low carbon footprint of systems using First Solar PV modules.

For more information visit: http://www.firstsolar.com/Innovation/Advanced-Thin-Film-Modules.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

First Solar Recognizes Top Suppliers with 2012 Achievement Awards

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) yesterday honored its premier suppliers at the company's second annual Supplier Recognition Day, held on Nov. 13 in Phoenix, Ariz. Approximately 160 of First Solar's top suppliers attended the event, five of whom were honored with the company's NOVA award for outstanding performance in 2012.

First Solar estimates that its business supports approximately 33,000 supply chain jobs, on a global basis. The company created the NOVA award to recognize suppliers who significantly support its mission.

"Our suppliers play a critical role in fulfilling our mission to create enduring value by enabling a world powered by clean, affordable solar electricity," said Shellie Molina, First Solar Vice President, Global Supply Chain. "We appreciate the exceptional efforts of these NOVA award recipients and the value they provide through the highest standards of quality, cost and performance."

The companies honored with the NOVA award were the Morgan Crucible Company, an advanced materials supplier; Nippon Sheet Glass (NSG), one of the world’s largest glass companies; Expeditors International, a global logistics company; Oryx Advanced Materials, a provider of thin-film deposition applications; and Rapid Manufacturing, a global manufacturer of custom cable/wire harnesses.

Collaboration with Morgan Crucible substantially improved critical materials processing. NSG helped First Solar achieve its efficiency roadmap while decreasing cost. Expediters International is facilitating effective entry into new markets while maintaining compliance with local laws and regulations. Oryx contributed substantially to cost reduction through its own R&D efforts. Rapid Manufacturing has demonstrated a commitment to First Solar initiatives, providing notable flexibility on project support.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

For First Solar Investors

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

First Solar, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2012 Financial Results

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced financial results for the third quarter of 2012. Net sales were $839 million in the quarter, a decrease of $118 million from the second quarter of 2012 and $167 million from the third quarter of 2011. The decrease in net sales from the second quarter of 2012 was primarily due to project-specific decreases including Silver State North, which was completed in the second quarter, and reduced construction activity at Agua Caliente, consistent with the Company's planned construction schedule. The decrease was partially offset by initial revenue recognition for the 550-megawattac Topaz Solar Farms project, which began construction in late 2011.

The Company reported third quarter net income of $1.00 per fully diluted share, compared to net income of $1.27 per fully diluted share in the second quarter of 2012 and net income of $2.25 per fully diluted share in the third quarter of 2011. The third quarter of 2012 was impacted by pre-tax charges of $24.2 million (reducing EPS by $0.27), relating to previously announced restructuring actions.

Cash and Marketable Securities at the end of the third quarter were $717 million, down slightly from $744 million at the end of the second quarter of 2012.

The Company also updated its 2012 guidance as follows:

    Net sales of $3.5 to $3.8 billion, compared to prior guidance of $3.6 to $3.9 billion. The reduction is due to weather-related disruptions in our supply chain and at certain project sites which may push the expected closing of the project sales from Q4 2012 into Q1 2013.
    Non-GAAP earnings per fully diluted share of $4.40 to $4.70, compared to prior guidance of $4.20 to $4.70, in each case excluding restructuring and impairment charges and certain costs in excess of normal warranty expense related to the previously announced manufacturing excursion expected, which are expected to reduce 2012 earnings per fully diluted share by approximately $6.00. On a GAAP basis, earnings per fully diluted share are expected to be in the range of $(1.60) to $(1.30).
    Operating Cash Flows of $650 to $850 million, compared to our previous guidance of $850 to $950 million, primarily due to the aforementioned weather-related disruptions for certain projects.

“Despite continued uncertainties and over-supply conditions in the market, First Solar delivered another strong quarterly performance,” said Jim Hughes, CEO. “Our quarterly performance coupled with our recent project wins in sustainable markets demonstrates we are making meaningful progress in achieving our strategic plan for long-term growth and value creation.”

For a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to measures presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”), see the table below.

First Solar has scheduled a conference call today, Nov. 1, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. EDT to discuss this announcement. Investors may access a live webcast of this conference call by visiting http://investor.firstsolar.com/events.cfm.

An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Wed., Nov. 7, 2012 at midnight EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States, or +1-719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States, and entering the replay pass code 606422. A replay of the webcast will be available on the Investors section of the company's web site approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 90 calendar days.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

First Solar’s Third Quarter 2012 Financial Results Moved to Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Due to disruptions in the financial markets caused by Hurricane Sandy, First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) will now report financial results for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, 2012, after market closes on Thurs., Nov. 1, 2012, at 4:30 p.m. ET. Investors may access a live webcast of this conference call by visiting http://investor.firstsolar.com/events.cfm.

An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Wed., Nov. 7, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States or 719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States and entering the replay pass code 5462792. A replay of the webcast will be available on the Investors section of the Company’s web site approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 90 calendar days.

About First Solar, Inc.

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

For First Solar Investors

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

First Solar to Announce Third Quarter 2012 Financial Results on Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) will report financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2012, after market closes on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. The Company will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss these results and outlook for the remainder of 2012 at 4:30 PM ET. Investors may access a live webcast of this conference call by visiting http://investor.firstsolar.com/events.cfm.

An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Wednesday, November 7, 2012 at 11:59 p.m. EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States or 719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States and entering the replay pass code 5462792. A replay of the webcast will be available on the Investors section of the Company’s web site approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and remain available for approximately 90 calendar days.

About First Solar, Inc.

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

For First Solar Investors

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

First Solar Launches New Advanced Global Power Plant Operations Center

MESA, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced the launch of its new industry-leading global Operations Center, a centralized monitoring and control center where power plants in First Solar’s operations and maintenance (O&M) program can be monitored, operated and connected to utility and customer networks. The Operations Center combines First Solar’s power prediction and analytical capabilities with its advanced diagnostics and plant controls in order to maximize power output and minimize maintenance costs for its customers, and to enable the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants to integrate seamlessly with the electrical grid and contribute to grid stability.

The new, second-generation Operations Center, located in Mesa, Ariz., is fully compliant with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards and is designed to be scalable to accommodate the growing global fleet of PV power plants in First Solar’s O&M program. First Solar currently operates for its customers 14 plants with 460 megawatts (MW) of peak generating capacity, which will increase to 23 plants with 850 MW of capacity by year-end and 27 plants with 2,200 MW of capacity in 2013.

The Operations Center and its expert staff maximize power plant availability and reduce costs for customers by preventing potential problems from occurring and quickly and efficiently fixing those that do. The Operations Center collects and processes a wide range of real-time power plant data, including electrical performance, equipment status and weather data, which are monitored and analyzed against key performance and operational parameters. Automated data analysis detects issues in the plants and automatically dispatches maintenance crews to resolve them, and proprietary algorithms developed using years of O&M data enable the system to predict potential issues and schedule preventive maintenance before a problem occurs.

A key feature of First Solar’s power plant design is its advanced plant controls, which are critical for managing grid reliability and stability and can be controlled remotely from the Operations Center. Features include ramp-rate control, which limits how fast a power plant’s output increases or decreases in order to minimize grid disruption; ride-through capability, which enables a power plant to operate through faults and other grid disturbances; active power control, which can be used to modulate power output; and frequency droop control, which enables a power plant to provide critical grid support when grid frequency is changing. These tools have become increasingly important as more solar generating capacity is connected to the grid.

“Our years of experience and investment have enabled us to build a proprietary system that allows us to optimize our customers’ power plants to produce the maximum amount of energy and revenue under their power purchase agreements while minimizing costs and risk,” said Bob Callery, Vice President of O&M. “The vast quantity of data we gather also gives us invaluable insight into the real-word performance of our products and supports the continuous improvement of our power plants.”

“Predictability and reliability have become increasingly critical to utilities and grid operators as large-scale renewable power plants are connected to the grid,” said Mahesh Morjaria, Vice President of Global Grid Integration. “First Solar has invested considerable time and resources to ensure our power plants integrate seamlessly into the grid and provide features that not only avoid disruptions, but also can help to actively mitigate disruptions elsewhere on the grid.”

About First Solar

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

First Solar to Build New Mexico Solar Projects Totaling 20 Megawatts for PNM

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced agreements to construct four solar power plants totaling 20 megawatts (MW) AC of generating capacity for PNM Resources, Inc. First Solar will provide engineering, procurement and construction services, using its advanced thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules. PNM has the option to expand the agreement to a total of 22 MWAC.

The new solar projects are in addition to five projects totaling 22 MW that First Solar completed for PNM in 2011.

The solar plants could be in service by the end of 2013, although the schedule is dependent on project approval by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, whose decision is expected in the fourth quarter of 2012. The four projects are expected to create a total of up to 450 construction jobs at peak.

“First Solar is very pleased to be working again with a leader in renewable energy like PNM,” said Jim Tyler, First Solar Vice President of Engineering, Procurement and Construction. “Our advanced technology and unparalleled experience designing and building solar power plants will help ensure PNM’s customers enjoy many years of clean, reliable solar electricity.”

The solar plants in aggregate will generate enough clean energy to power up to 7,000 average New Mexico homes, displacing about 31,000 metric tons of CO2 annually—the equivalent of taking some 6,000 cars off the road.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

First Solar Hires Bruce Yung as Managing Director & VP of Business Development, China

BEIJING & TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced that Bruce Yung has joined the company as Managing Director and Vice President of Business Development for China. In his new role, Yung will be based in First Solar’s Beijing office and report to Jim Brown, Executive Vice President of Global Business Development.

Yung has 25 years of experience in the energy industry throughout Asia and Europe, spanning oil, gas, coal, power and renewable energy. Most recently, Yung was Managing Director of China Renewable Energy Investment Limited, a renewable energy company focused on China. Prior to that, he held senior positions in business development, mergers and acquisitions, asset management and strategy with leading global energy companies such as British Petroleum, Entergy Power Group and British Gas.

“Bruce’s extensive and diverse global experience across the energy industry will be a valuable asset to First Solar and our customers as we continue to grow and invest in the Chinese market,” said Brown. “His first-hand knowledge of the entire power life-cycle, from development to operation, will help us to expand the market for utility-scale solar PV power plants in China and to deliver value to Chinese solar power producers.”

“I am excited to lead First Solar’s effort to bring its leading thin-film technology and unparalleled experience in utility-scale solar to the Chinese market in order to help China reach its ambitious renewable energy goals,” said Yung.

Yung earned BS and PhD degrees in chemical engineering from the University of Birmingham and an MBA from Henley Management College in the United Kingdom. He is currently Vice Chairman of the Energy Committee at the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Co-Chair of the Renewable Energy Chapter of the Independent Power Producers Forum.

About First Solar
First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

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

First Solar and PG&E Sign Contracts for 72 Megawatts of Solar Photovoltaic Electricity

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced it has signed power purchase agreements with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) for 72 megawatts AC of solar electricity to be generated at two photovoltaic power plants that First Solar is developing in central California.

The 32-megawatt Lost Hills project in Kern County and the 40-megawatt Cuyama project in Santa Barbara County are expected to create up to 600 jobs at peak construction. Project construction could start in 2013 as soon as the development process is complete, depending on plans of the projects’ eventual owners.

Together, Lost Hills and Cuyama will produce enough clean, renewable energy to power some 24,000 California homes, offsetting approximately 45,000 metric tons of CO2 annually—the equivalent of taking about 8,900 cars off the road each year.

“We are very pleased to add these projects to PG&E’s solar portfolio, helping it and California reach their renewable energy goals,” said Brian Kunz, First Solar Vice President of Project Development. “Grid-friendly utility-scale power plants from First Solar are readily integrated into the electrical infrastructure.”

The power purchase agreements—each with a delivery term beginning in 2019—are subject to approval by the California Public Utilities Commission, whose decision is expected in the first half of 2013.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

For First Solar Investors

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

World’s Largest Operational Solar PV Project, Agua Caliente, Achieves 250 Megawatts of Grid-Connected Power

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced that the Agua Caliente solar project has achieved a peak generating capacity of 250 megawatts (MW)AC connected to the electrical grid. The project, which is under construction in Yuma County, Ariz., is currently the world’s largest operating photovoltaic (PV) power plant and will have a generating capacity of 290 MWAC when completed.

Initial construction work at the award-winning Agua Caliente site began in the fall of 2010 and solar module installation began in June of 2011, incorporating First Solar’s latest advances in system layout and design, optimized balance-of-system components, and integrated work-flow engineering. The resulting efficiencies enabled the project to begin commercial operation just seven months later in January 2012 when it began generating 30 MW of clean electricity for the grid, and it surpassed 100 MW of grid-connected power this spring and 200 MW this summer. Construction of the project is expected to be complete on schedule in 2014.

The record-setting project has successfully met all of its contractual milestones to date and exceeded targets for the speed, quality and safety of the construction process. As a result, First Solar has adjusted the construction schedule to a slower velocity in line with future contractual milestones and the scheduled completion date. The adjustments have provided First Solar with increased flexibility to allocate its solar module supply to better serve increased demand in the second half of 2012 across its portfolio of projects.

“The Agua Caliente project exemplifies how utility-grade solar PV power can be rapidly deployed in a phased approach and seamlessly integrated into the electrical grid,” said Jim Tyler, Vice President of Development Engineering in First Solar’s Engineering, Procurement and Construction Group. “We are extremely proud to set a new benchmark for the industry with Agua Caliente, which incorporates the knowledge gained over years of experience designing, building and operating utility-scale solar projects for leading utilities and energy providers.”

First Solar designed and is constructing the project using its advanced thin-film photovoltaic modules and will operate and maintain the facility for owners NRG Energy and MidAmerican Solar. Pacific Gas and Electric Company has a 25-year power purchase agreement for the project's electrical output, which is projected to displace approximately 5.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide over 25 years, the equivalent of taking more than 40,000 cars off the road annually. The facility, which is owned by NRG and MidAmerican Solar, will employ a daily average of 400 to 450 workers during the construction period.

The Agua Caliente project is being financed with support from a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

First Solar Modules to Power Ohio State University at Solar Decathlon Competition in Wash., D.C.

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced that a team of students from Ohio State University will use the company’s advanced thin-film solar modules to power their sustainable house in the 2011 U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon competition, which will take place next week in Wash., D.C. Installation of the 8 kilowatt photovoltaic rooftop system, which utilizes modules manufactured in First Solar’s Perrysburg, Ohio facility, will begin today.
   
“First Solar is proud to sponsor the Ohio State University Solar Decathlon team. We applaud their innovative design efforts and wish them luck at next week’s competition,” said Mike Koralewski, Vice President of Site Operations and Plant Manager for First Solar’s Perrysburg, Ohio facility. “Our Ohio-manufactured solar modules were a natural fit for this Ohio-based team.”

The biennial Solar Decathlon challenges students to use a holistic approach to design and construct net-zero energy-consuming homes. The competition features houses from 20 universities from around the world. Ohio State University’ sustainable house maximizes the efficiency of the dwelling by condensing all of the mechanical and fixed items into a minimal footprint, while still providing flexible spaces that can accommodate the needs of a modern family.

“We chose First Solar’s modules because they offer the technological edge our sustainable home design requires,” said Matthew O’Kelly, Ohio State University Team Project Engineer. “They also make economic sense and were manufactured in our home state.”

First Solar’s modules are well suited for rooftop applications and generate electricity with no water usage and no waste production. They also perform well in high temperature conditions and can produce more electricity when mounted flush on a rooftop, where wind is less able to cool them.

The company’s Perrysburg, Ohio, facility produces approximately 250 megawatts per year and employs approximately 1200 associates.

For more information on the Ohio State Solar Decathlon team, visit http://solardecathlon.osu.edu/.

About First Solar, Inc.

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

First Solar Announces Agreement for 100MW Module Supply with Reliance Power

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar (Nasdaq: FSLR), a leading provider of photovoltaic (PV) system solutions, today announced a 100 megawatt (MW) solar module supply agreement with Reliance Power. First Solar will deliver 40MW of advanced thin film modules to Reliance Power by the end of 2011 for its solar power project in Jaisalmer, which will supply renewable electricity to Mumbai. The delivery of the remaining 60MW is expected be completed in 2012. This agreement is the largest PV module supply agreement in India to date.
   
”We are delighted to collaborate with Reliance Power, one of India’s leading independent power producers,” said Jim Brown, president of First Solar’s Utility Systems Business Group. “With strong growth projections, India is expected to become one of the world’s major solar markets, due to its abundant solar resource and significant energy demand. This agreement with Reliance Power continues First Solar’s momentum in India, helping develop the country’s long-term, sustainable solar market,” Brown added.

The U.S. Export-Import Bank approved an $84.3 million direct loan on Aug. 25 to Reliance Power’s Dahanu Solar Power Pvt. unit to purchase First Solar panels for the first 40MW of the project.

About First Solar, Inc.

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

First Solar Modules “Made in EU” Qualify for Italian Feed-In Tariff Premium

ROME & MAINZ, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar modules produced by First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) in its factory in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany, satisfy requirements for a 10% feed-in tariff premium in Italy after passing a thorough factory inspection, the company announced today.
  
The news follows an official Factory Inspection certification by VDE, the German Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies, on the basis of guidelines established by the Italian government as part of its “Conto Energia 4” (CE4) feed-in tariff program. The CE4 intends to encourage the use of components “made in Europe” with the program, which rewards projects that contain at least 60% local content with a 10% premium over normal feed-in tariff rates.

“This certification provides an added value to our customers in Italy by increasing the attractiveness of investments in commercial PV systems,” said Stephan Hansen, Vice President of Sales for First Solar in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “It also validates our commitment to manufacturing in Europe, which remains one of our most important markets globally.”

First Solar has operated a manufacturing plant for its innovative, thin-film solar modules in Frankfurt (Oder), since 2007. The company is currently in the process of doubling manufacturing capacity at the plant to approximately 500MW a year. First Solar employs more than 1,200 people in Frankfurt (Oder) and more than 1,400 in the European Union overall and was recently recognized as a Great Place to Work by Germany’s Great Place to Work Institute for the second year in a row.

In addition, most of the raw materials that First Solar uses for its German production are sourced within the European Union.

First Solar modules also recently received the IEC 61701 certification demonstrating their resistance to corrosive salt mist in coastal environments. All First Solar modules are covered by a 25-year performance warranty and the company offers an industry-leading, prefunded module collection and recycling program. Moreover, the resource- and energy-efficient way in which First Solar modules are produced results in a best-in-class energy payback time and the smallest carbon footprint among all commercially available PV technologies.

Five First Solar Executives Purchase Company Stock

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) today announced that five of its senior executives purchased a total of 5,500 shares of company stock this week to add to their current holdings. The purchases were made during one of four annual open trading windows for First Solar’s Directors and Section 16 officers and have been reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission in Form 4 filings where applicable.
   
Each of the First Solar executives purchased shares on the open market using personal funds.

•     Tymen DeJong purchased 1,000 shares. DeJong is Senior Vice President of Global Operations, responsible for First Solar’s global manufacturing operations.
•     Frank DeRosa purchased 500 shares. DeRosa was recently appointed to an expanded role as Senior Vice President of Business Development for the Americas, where he will oversee Project Development, Sales and Business Development for the Utility Systems Business Group in the Americas.
•     TK Kallenbach purchased 1,000 shares. Kallenbach is President of the Components Business Group, responsible for sales of First Solar modules and balance-of-systems products, including First Solar’s European distribution network.
•     Jim Lamon purchased 2,000 shares. Lamon is Senior Vice President of Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC), which builds and operates utility-scale solar projects, including both First Solar’s 2.6 gigawatt project pipeline and customer projects.
•     Mark Widmar purchased 1,000 shares. Widmar joined First Solar in April as Chief Financial Officer.

"First Solar's leadership team has confidence in the company's long-term growth prospects and our ability to develop new markets and execute our cost, technology and project road maps," said Rob Gillette, CEO of First Solar.