Monday, May 18, 2009

SunPower Announces Industry's Only Solar Monitoring Application for the Apple iPhone and iPod touch Mobile Devices

Homeowners Now Have Three Ways to Easily Monitor the Efficiency of Their SunPower Solar Rooftop System

SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a manufacturer of high efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced the industry's first monitoring application for the Apple iPhone(TM) and iPod touch(R) mobile devices. With the addition of this application to the SunPower(R) Monitoring System, a suite of monitoring services, residential customers now have three easy ways to access information about the energy generated by their SunPower solar systems.

Along with the iPhone and iPod touch application, the SunPower Monitoring System offers homeowners the ability to monitor SunPower solar systems with a wireless, in-home wall-mounted LCD display that provides power production and cumulative energy information. The monitoring system also provides the convenience of Internet access to a solar system's performance from virtually anywhere. Customers can view a system's energy performance and environmental savings on an hourly, monthly and annual basis.

"With the SunPower Monitoring System, our customers can optimize their solar investment and save on energy expenses," said Jan Soderstrom, vice president and chief marketing officer at SunPower Corp. "By monitoring their solar systems online, in-home or via their Apple mobile devices, these tools empower homeowners to track their systems anytime and from practically any location."

The iPhone and iPod touch application can be downloaded immediately from the Apple App Store at itunes.com/apps/sunpowermonitoring at no charge and is available to new and existing customers of SunPower solar systems with monitoring capabilities. Prospective customers can download a demonstration feature with an overview of how the application works. The SunPower Monitoring System is available through the SunPower dealer network for homeowners purchasing a new solar rooftop system. Customers in new home communities with SunPower solar can monitor their systems via the online and Apple mobile device application services.

About SunPower
SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers high-performance solar electric systems worldwide for residential, commercial and utility-scale power plant customers. SunPower high-efficiency solar cells and solar panels generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar technologies and have a uniquely attractive, all-black appearance. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. For more information, visit www.sunpowercorp.com.

SunPower is a registered trademark of SunPower Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Source: SunPower Corporation

New York Governor Paterson Announces Plans For Largest Solar Project In State History

New York Power Authority Plans to Advance Statewide 100 MW Photovoltaic Project to Help Implement Governor’s Clean Energy Agenda, Increase Energy Independence and Create Clean Energy Jobs

New York Governor David A. Paterson today announced the largest solar photovoltaic project in New York, which will help the State meet its energy needs, foster the development of solar technologies and stimulate the economy with new clean energy jobs.

This initiative follows on the heels of the Governor’s recently announced 50 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project, lead by the Long Island Power Authority. Together, these projects totaling 150 MW would position New York as the State with the second highest installed PV capacity.

“Today’s announcement is a critical step forward in achieving New York’s goals under its Renewable Portfolio Standard and in boosting the State’s energy independence,” said Governor Paterson. “The installation of 100 megawatts of solar power at our schools, municipal and commercial buildings, and other State sites will enhance New York State’s status as a leader in the new clean energy economy and will create clean energy jobs right here in New York State.”

Today’s announcement is the fourth major clean energy initiative Governor Paterson has unveiled in the last two weeks, which is positioning New York as a global leader in energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Continuing on this path will position New York to become a net exporter of clean energy technologies to the rest of the world. Other recent announcements include:

* Along with General Electric (GE) Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt, Governor Paterson announced that GE has proposed the establishment of a new sodium battery manufacturing facility in the Capital Region that would create 350 new jobs.
* LIPA, along with Stony Brook University and Farmingdale State College proposed the creation of Long Island’s first integrated Smart Energy Corridor, to assist residential, commercial and industrial LIPA customers in monitoring and reducing energy usage; increase reliability; encourage energy efficiency by facilitating smarter technologies; and create clean energy jobs.
* The creation the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium (known as NY BEST), which implements a key goal identified in Governor Paterson’s State of the State address, will invest more than $25 million to finance the Consortium, a first of its kind in the nation and a critical component in advancing the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) industry in New York.

On behalf of the State, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) will issue a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) for the purpose of exploring a public-private partnership for the installation of up to 100 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, including roof-mounted and ground-mounted PV arrays at municipal facilities, public and private schools, businesses and State agencies throughout New York.

Specifically, NYPA is seeking proposals that would promote potential regional economic development opportunities for local component manufacturing and assembly. Such economic benefits could include opportunities to manufacture PV components in the State, particularly in Western New York, and foster clean energy jobs in the region that would be associated with installing, operating and maintaining the PV facilities and other related support functions.

Governor Paterson’s ‘45 by 15’ program is one of the nation’s most aggressive energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. By 2015, New York State will receive 45 percent of its electricity through energy efficiency and clean renewable energy. It is conservatively estimated that this program will create 50,000 new jobs throughout the State.

Senator Darrel J. Aubertine, Chair of the Senate Energy Committee, said: “This is an exciting new possibility that will help move New York State toward its goals for a renewable and sustainable energy future. A public-private partnership like this will spur job growth in Upstate New York with a potential for manufacturing and assembly, in addition to construction, operation and maintenance of the photovoltaic systems. This combination of green energy and good jobs is what we’re hoping to foster more of throughout the state and I look forward to working with the industry and leading institutions to make sure this is just the beginning of more good news to come.”

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee, said: “The continued development and application of solar energy technologies is critical as we work towards energy independence in New York State. The Power Authority, under Governor Paterson’s leadership, is positioning itself as a national leader in implementing the energy efficiency and renewable power initiatives that will make up the foundation of our green economy.”

President and CEO of NYPA Richard M. Kessel said: “Through projects such as this one, NYPA will continue to support Governor Paterson’s clean energy economy vision and his ‘45 by 15’ program which will create clean energy jobs throughout the State, and result in a more independent and diverse energy system, and a cleaner environment. The installation of additional clean solar power in New York will increase the availability of locally-generated renewable power, off-setting reliance on imported energy and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases.”

In addition to providing clean power to the host facilities, NYPA’s project will explore the technical and economic feasibility of large-scale power at distributed locations, examine the use of solar power as localized electric generation to support the electric grid and defer the need for new distribution lines.

NYSEIA Executive Director John F. Siciliani said: “The New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA) applauds NYPA on this ambitious effort to bring clean renewable power to New York State. NYSEIA and its members look forward to participating in this initiative and its potential to bring green jobs and energy independence to New York.”

CCE Executive Director Adrienne Esposito said: “With today’s announcement, New York can look forward to a brighter energy future. New York is sending a critical message that large scale energy production doesn’t have to come from polluting fossil fuels, but rather it can be obtained from clean, renewable, homegrown solar power. Citizens Campaign for the Environment applauds Governor Paterson and NYPA for thinking outside the barrel and aggressively pursuing a new energy vision for the millennium.”

Director of the nonprofit Network for New Energy Choices Kyle Rabin said: “New Yorkers want renewable energy, and they want the green jobs that go with it. This initiative is just what the public is clamoring for, particularly in the beleaguered economies of Western New York and the urban areas that are looking for ways to clean the air, reduce electric costs and embrace a 21st Century energy plan.”

Executive Director of the utility-focused Solar Electric Power Association Julia Hamm said: “The New York Power Authority’s RFEI regarding a 100 MW solar initiative is another significant indicator that electric utilities in the U.S. are realizing the value and importance of solar electricity to the nation’s energy future. The eventual implementation of this program will earn NYPA a place as one of the leading utilities for solar integration in the nation.”

Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy (ACE NY) Carol E. Murphy said: “Today’s announcement by Governor Paterson that the New York Power Authority will develop 100 MW in solar photovoltaic projects across New York is commendable for its impact and scope. This initiative will help bolster New York's clean energy sector. It’s now time to put our words to action and develop a green economy that protects our planet and puts New Yorkers back to work.”

According to NYPA, the power generated by 100 MW is the equivalent of powering approximately 15,000 homes.

NYPA’s RFEI can be accessed on the NYPA website http://www.nypa.gov/100mwSolarRFEI.htm or look for the link on NYPA’s home page (www.nypa.gov). The deadline for receipt of RFEI proposals is July 7, 2009.

The information provided through the RFEI will assist NYPA in determining the feasibility of taking the next step of preparing a solar project RFP which, if issued, would likely result in project commencement in 2010.

Source: New York Governor

Friday, May 15, 2009

Detroit Edison Signs Renewable Energy Agreement . . . Its First Under New State Law

Detroit Edison has entered into a 20-year agreement with Michigan-based Heritage Sustainable Energy to purchase wind power and renewable energy credits that will be used to help the utility meet the state's renewable portfolio standard.

The agreement is the first signed by Detroit Edison following passage last fall of a new state law that requires Michigan's electric utilities to provide 10 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2015.

"This is the first of many agreements we will be signing to provide renewable energy to our customers," said Tony Earley, chairman and CEO of DTE Energy, parent company of Detroit Edison. "Michigan's new energy law will encourage the development of renewable energy projects in the state, providing Michigan-based companies like Heritage with incredible growth opportunities today and in the future."

Heritage Sustainable Energy, which is headquartered in Traverse City, plans to install 7 - 8 large-scale wind turbines at a wind farm near Cadillac in order to fulfill its agreement with Detroit Edison. The wind turbines, which will be capable of producing about 15 megawatts of renewable energy, are expected to be operational by late 2009.

"We are very pleased and proud to be the first company awarded a contract by Detroit Edison as they strive to meet the state's renewable energy goals," said Marty Lagina, chairman of Heritage Sustainable Energy. "This agreement will enable us to expand our wind energy business, create a number of new jobs here in northern Michigan and be a part of the state's exciting energy future."

DTE Energy expects the majority of its renewable energy to come from wind resources. The company has acquired easements on more than 60,000 acres of land in Huron County in Michigan's Thumb region for development of large-scale wind farms. The company also has proposed two solar energy pilot projects that could produce about 20 megawatts of power.

To meet the state's renewable portfolio standard, Detroit Edison expects to add about 1,200 megawatts of renewable power. The company plans to contract with third-party producers, like Heritage, for half of that capacity, and plans to own renewable energy projects to meet the remainder.

DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include Detroit Edison, an electric utility serving 2.2 million customers in Southeastern Michigan, MichCon, a natural gas utility serving 1.2 million customers in Michigan and other non-utility, energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, coal and gas midstream, unconventional gas production and energy trading. Information about DTE Energy is available at www.dteenergy.com.

Source: DTE Energy / PRNewswire

ABB Secures Contract For First Solar Power Project In U.S.

ABB, the leading power and automation technology company, recently announced that it has secured its first Solar Thermal Power Project in North America with eSolar, producer of scalable solar thermal power plants, based in Pasadena, California.

ABB has provided eSolar equipment and engineering services in the development of the Sierra commercial demonstration facility. The Sierra project is a solar thermal power plant design consisting of two solar light receivers, with each receiver being supported by a field of 12,000 heliostat reflectors. The reflected light from each heliostat is captured at the receiver and used to convert water to steam.

eSolar selected ABB because of its power generation balance of plant expertise, its ability to co-develop the balance of plant controls design and meet accelerated project schedule demands, and because ABB is an established international power and automation solutions provider.

"We quickly realized that ABB possessed the elements to play a critical role in the development of our Sierra project," said Bill Gross, eSolar CEO. "ABB's contributions have already exceeded our expectations, both in design and implementation. Coupling ABB's technology expertise with eSolar's concentrated solar thermal power (CSP) innovation, our first CSP demonstration site in Sierra will be a model for industry success and also demonstrate the viability of this technology moving forward."

ABB's scope of supply includes plant control system design, engineering and implementation, including supervisory controls for interface to eSolar's steam turbine and OPC Interface to the patented eSolar Heliostat Field Control System. In addition, ABB will install a Facet Controls Solution that monitors and evenly distributes the solar light reflected by each heliostat for maximizing the use and life of eSolar's solar thermal receivers.

"The solar power niche within the renewable power industry is in its infancy and will soon be in exponential growth mode," said Kevin McAllister, Head of ABB's Power Generation division in North America. "ABB is contracted to work with eSolar to deploy a solution that makes a dramatic reduction in the cost of solar thermal technology by tackling the key obstacles that have characterized large solar installations in the past: price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact."

By leveraging a proprietary combination of optics and software in a pre-fabricated form factor, eSolar achieves economies of scale while focusing on the key business obstacles that have characterized large solar installations – price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact. eSolar has partnered with Idealab, Google.org, Oak Investment Partners, and other investors to develop large and utility-scale power projects around the world.

About ABB
ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 120,000 people. The company's North American operations, headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, employ about 15,000 people in 20 manufacturing and other major facilities. For more information, visit: www.abb.com.

Source: ABB

Monday, May 4, 2009

Asia Pacific Hydro Power Market Analysis and Forecasts to 2013

Global Markets Direct’s new report “Asia – Pacific Hydro Power Market Analysis and Forecasts to 2013” provides detailed analysis and forecasts of the Asia-Pacific Hydro Power industry.

The Asia-Pacific region leads the global hydro power market with a total installed capacity of 295,764 MW by the end of 2008. The region has witnessed tremendous growth in the hydro electric sector over the years, principally because of strong growth in the leading hydro power nations such as China, Japan, India and Australia. These countries are cited as the most attractive destination for hydropower generation principally because of the abundant water resources. Among the leading nations, China and India has vast untapped hydro resources. This gives a positive indication of the growth of the region in the next few years. It is expected that cumulative hydro installed capacity will grow at a CAGR of 6.92% during the period 2009-13 to reach the figure of 434,388 MW by the end of 2013.

China is an undisputed leader in the hydropower sector with total cumulative capacity of 146 GW at the end of 2008. The country has immense growth potential in the hydroelectric sector. Given that the country is dependent on fossil fuels at present for meeting the majority of its electricity needs, a shift towards renewable power sources has become mandatory. As a result, China is making efforts to exploit the vast available hydro power potential in the country. Three Gorges dam; the world’s largest hydropower dam is under construction in the country. The first and the second phase of the dam have already been accomplished while the third phase is expected to be executed by the end of 2009. In addition, to the three gorges dam, there are other small hydro power plants which also contribute to the hydropower capacity of the nation. This will lead to significant hydroelectric capacity additions in the future period. Considering massive hydro power capacity additions in the coming years, China hydro power market is expected to reach around 250 GW by the end of 2013.

Over the last five years, there has been a strong interest in the development of ocean, tidal and wave energy as a source for power generation. These different types of technologies are related to the hydropower sector and are still in the demonstration stage. Although a few projects have come online concerted R&D efforts are being carried out for early commercialization of these new technologies. Once these technologies are commercialized and many such projects are commissioned, there will be greater capacity in the future, thereby contributing significantly to the global hydropower sector.

For more information on this report click here:
http://www.global-market-research-data.com/Report.aspx?ID=Asia-Pacific_Hydro_Power_Market_Analysis_and_Forecasts_to_2013

The report highlights the significant growth observed by the Asia-Pacific Hydro power market during the period 2001-08. The cumulative installed capacity of the region augmented from 205,422 MW in 2001 to 295,764 MW in 2008, growing at a CAGR of 5.35%. The report also encompasses the growth scenario of the leading hydropower generating nations in the Asia-Pacific Region. The countrywide analysis of the key hydro power nations covers historical and forecast statistics relating to the installed hydro power capacities, market structure and regulatory policies that govern the industry. It facilitates the identification of the key growth drivers that have led to the stupendous development of the major hydro power countries in the Asia-Pacific Region. The news and deals portfolio provided in the report helps an investor to gauge the market scenario of the leading hydro power nations and accordingly direct their investment.

For more information on this report click here
http://www.global-market-research-data.com/Report.aspx?ID=Asia-Pacific_Hydro_Power_Market_Analysis_and_Forecasts_to_2013

Or visit GlobalData’s Report Store:
http://www.globaldata.com/reportstore

Global Markets Direct is a global market intelligence services company providing information research and analysis products and services.

Source: PRLog

State of Indiana to recruit more wind energy jobs

Representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and the Indiana Office of Energy Development will join executives, local officials and educators this week in Chicago to recruit new, high-tech companies to Indiana and showcase the state's strengths in wind energy development and components manufacturing.

The trip is part of the state's business recruiting efforts at the world's largest wind conference and exhibition trade show, WINDPOWER 2009, a show that is expected to host more than 1,200 exhibitors and 15,000 national and international wind energy thought leaders.

"Indiana has risen quickly as a national leader in wind energy development and is a natural location for future investment from the growing industry. Our favorable business environment and educated workforce are just a couple highlights of the compelling story we'll share with energy professionals from across the globe." said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the IEDC.

In addition to showcasing the state's homegrown energy and economic competitiveness in a booth at the convention, the Indiana delegation will meet one-on-one with company executives to encourage them to locate high-tech jobs in the fields of renewable energy and components manufacturing in the Hoosier state.

"We've just started tapping into Indiana's wind resource," said Brandon Seitz, director of OED. "Indiana's location and manufacturing infrastructure also makes it perfect to help meet this industry's growing supply chain needs."

Representatives from Duke Energy and local economic development organizations will join IEDC and OED at the Windy City trade show. Renewable energy researchers from Purdue University will also attend the conference.

While in Chicago, IEDC representatives will join with International gear maker, Brevini, to celebrate the company's newly inked contracts to supply gear boxes to two major wind turbine manufacturers starting in 2010. Last fall, Brevini announced plans to locate its U.S. headquarters and first North American gear design and manufacturing center in Muncie, adding more than 450 new jobs over the next three years.

In April, the American Wind Energy Association announced Indiana's ranking as the fastest growing state for wind energy installations in 2008 and is projected to increase installations to over 800 megawatts by the end of the year. Also in April, Dominion (NYSE: D) and BP Wind Energy announced that Phase One of Fowler Ridge Wind Farm in Benton County is operational. The largest wind farm east of the Mississippi River, the operation is expected to generate enough carbon-free electricity to power more than 120,000 homes and provide 200 new jobs for Hoosiers.

About American Wind Energy Association
WINDPOWER is hosted by the American Wind Energy Association. AWEA is the national trade association of America's wind industry, with a membership that includes global leaders in wind power development, wind turbine manufacturing, and energy, as well as a broad range of component and service suppliers. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA Web site: www.awea.org.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Indiana Secretary of Commerce Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about the state's job creating agency, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

About OED
The Office of Energy Development (OED) was created in December 2005 as an extension of the Indiana Energy Office. Under the leadership of Lt. Governor Becky Skillman, OED is responsible for the state's energy policy. Don't miss Indiana's annual wind power conference WIndiana 2009, July 21-22 in Indianapolis. For more information visit www.energy.in.gov.

Solar Power, Inc. Completes One of Georgia’s Largest Solar Systems and Second Solar Site for Cox Enterprises

Solar Power, Inc. Helps Advance Company’s “Cox Conserves” Sustainable Initiative Nationwide

Solar Power, Inc. (“SPI”) (OTCBB:SOPW) has completed the installation of another photovoltaic (“PV”) energy system for Cox Enterprises, Inc. at its Manheim DRIVE Center facility. The facility is a first-of-its-kind innovation center for automotive remarketing consisting of 165,000 square feet of space that serves as a place for the company to test new ideas and technologies, as well as for events and training sessions. The site also processes the sales of 1,100 automobiles per day through live and video auctions. The innovation and auction facility is located in Stockbridge, Georgia. According to Georgia Power, the 112 kilowatt DC (“kW”) system will be the largest commercial photovoltaic solar system in the state of Georgia.

This is the second in a series of PV solar systems SPI has designed and installed for Cox Enterprises, and also represents another major stride for the Cox national environmental initiative, Cox Conserves. Cox Enterprises put the company-wide sustainability initiative in place to reduce the company’s carbon footprint or greenhouse gas emissions 20% by the year 2017. The initiative also calls for 10% of companywide electric energy to come from renewable energy forms. PV solar plays an important role in helping the company achieve its goals.

“We are very happy to continue working with Cox Enterprises as they roll out their national program embracing sustainable and renewable practices. This is the second major system we have executed for them and we have similar projects underway to help them further advance their Cox Conserves initiative,” said Bradley Ferrell, President of Solar Power, Inc.’s commercial development division. “Cox Enterprises is a leader among the growing number of corporations who have begun to embrace and deploy sustainability initiatives and lead by example in the process. It is a privilege to continue to work with the Cox team as we help them achieve their economic goals and environmental initiatives through photovoltaic solar systems at their facilities across the United States.”

The 112 kW system is Cox Enterprises’ second commercial-grade photovoltaic installation and features 560 200-watt roof-mounted solar modules covering 10,000 square feet, and a highly efficient 95-kilowatt inverter. “Just as when we installed the 100.8 kW system for the company’s Cox Communications division cable telecommunications facility in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, we worked closely with the Cox team to ensure a seamless integration of the system without any interruption in operations. We were able to complete both of these projects on time and on budget,” said Ferrell. “We look forward to identical outcomes for additional projects as we continue to work together toward advancement of their Cox Conserves program throughout all of their areas of operation across the country,” Mr. Ferrell concluded.

About Solar Power, Inc.:

Founded in 2005, Solar Power, Inc. is a vertically integrated solar energy solution provider offering the North American commercial and public sector building markets a complete solution through a single brand. The company’s Yes! Solar SolutionsTM subsidiary provides the U.S. small- to mid-sized business and residential market segments with turnkey PV solar systems through a growing retail franchise network. Throughout Europe and Asia, the company sells its products direct to distributors and turnkey solutions providers. Solar Power, Inc. operates from its Roseville, California headquarters.

Safe Harbor Statement:

This release contains certain “forward-looking statements” relating to the business of Solar Power, Inc., its subsidiaries and the solar industry, which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes, expects” or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release include statements regarding the Company’s ability to execute its growth plan and meet revenue and sales estimates, enter into formal long-term supply agreements, and market acceptance of products and services. These statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including, but are not limited to, general business conditions, managing growth, and political and other business risk. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this Cautionary Statement and the risks and other factors detailed in the Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities law.

Contacts

Solar Power, Inc.
Mike Anderson, Vice President Marketing, 916-745-0916
Manderson(at)solarpowerinc.net
or
HC International, Inc.
Ted Haberfield, Executive VP, 760-755-2716
thaberfield(at)hcinternational.net

Real Goods Solar Announces First Quarter 2009 Results to be Released on Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Real Goods Solar Announces First Quarter 2009 Results to be Released on Wednesday, May 6, 2009, and Conference Call to be held on Thursday, May 7, 2009

Real Goods Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: RSOL) will announce results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2009 after the market close on Wednesday, May 6, 2009. The Company will also hold a teleconference to discuss these results with additional comments and details. Participating in the call will be Tom McCalmont, Chief Executive Officer, John Schaeffer, Founder and President, Erik Zech, Chief Financial Officer, and Jirka Rysavy, Chairman.

The conference call is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. PDT (11:30 a.m. EDT) on Thursday, May 7, 2009. Participants may access the call by dialing 877-941-6009 (domestic) or 480-629-9770 (international).

If you are unable to participate in the live call, a replay will be available beginning Thursday, May 7, at 2:30 p.m. EDT, through Thursday, May 14, at midnight EDT. To access the replay, dial 800-406-7325 (passcode: 4065647). International callers should dial 303-590-3030 and use the same passcode.

About Real Goods Solar, Inc.

Real Goods Solar, Inc. is a leading residential solar energy integrator, having installed over 4,500 solar systems. Real Goods Solar offers turnkey solar energy services, and 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. For more information about Real Goods Solar, please visit www.realgoodssolar.com, or call (888) 507-2561.

Source: Real Goods Solar, Inc.