An ideal cleantech environment- the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact

Reprinted with permission from author- I thought this was a great article - reminding us of the key drivers behind investing in the sector. The general financial media focuses very short term and has forgotten about global warming in the midst of the economic crisis

An ideal cleantech environment- the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact


By Glen Schwaber- Israel Cleantech Ventures http://www.israelcleantech.com/
Now is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs..

Crude oil has plummeted over 55% since it peaked at $147 in mid-July. Credit markets, necessary for large scale project finance in solar, wind, and water, have dried up. As of October 16th, the Goldman Sachs Renewables Composite was down 59% for the year, almost twice the drop in the Nasdaq and S&P 500 indexes. Q-Cells, one of the darlings of the solar industry is down nearly 60% in the last month alone, trading at just 24% of its peak value. M&A values will surely drop in tandem with the stock currency of the acquirers and the IPO window is shut completely. Meanwhile, rhetoric by world leaders on climate change is beginning to factor in the challenge of maintaining policy goals in the face of broader economic concerns.


So why are we not stopping our investments or recommending that our portfolio company CEOs stop theirs? The reason is simple. Banking crisis notwithstanding, the fundamental drivers of cleantech innovation have not changed one iota in the past few months.

Mean temperatures on the planet have not suddenly fallen with the stock market. Melting glaciers have not frozen up like the market for sub-prime loans. Endangered species have not stopped going extinct. People haven’t stopped needing to drink clean water. Nor have they ceased using electricity or driving their cars. Nor have they stopped having babies. And the Iranians have not suddenly become our friends.

Put another way, the three basic macro trends behind the cleantech investment thesis remain wholly intact:

Climate change is real and is unfortunately here to stay. Global mean temperatures have already risen in close correlation to greenhouse gas emissions / carbon dioxide equivalents. The pace of carbon dioxide emissions is still accelerating. We are already at over 384 parts per million of CO2 in the atmosphere, where we haven’t been for millions of years and are on pace to warm our planet by an additional 2 degrees Celsius by mid-century, with resulting known and unforeseeable changes to sea levels, weather patterns, and humankind’s living conditions on earth.

The world’s population is rising at a remarkable pace. There are about 6.7 billion people on earth today, with projections reaching 9.2 billion by 2050. Even more significant than the raw population growth, the number of people moving to cities in search of a middle-class livelihood afforded through industrialization and economic growth has accelerated rapidly. According to the UN, by 2015 (which is just around the corner and is incidentally well within the 10 year time frame of a new cleantech venture fund) there will be 26 cities with 10 million people or more. In 1975, the number of these “mega-cities” was just 5. More people, particularly more middle class urban people mean far greater consumption of natural resources, potable water, and energy.

The West is dependent on oil and natural gas supplies from unstable and unpredictable regimes, some of whom are using oil revenues to fund terrorism and war. Regardless of whether oil is at $140 per barrel or $40 per barrel, the Western industrialized world is dependent on OPEC supplies and is therefore stuck in the position of funding some of its own worst enemies.

Taken together, these three drivers will continue to push policy, innovation, and investment in cleantech over the coming years. But even in the short term, we have already seen at least two encouraging signals about the future direction of the cleantech industry. First, on the policy side, it is noteworthy that the $700 billion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act passed in the US, included a tax extenders bill containing several tax breaks and incentives for renewable energy and clean technologies.

This $17 Billion bill mandates an eight year extension of the investment tax credits (ITC) for all solar systems, and removes the $2,000 cap on residential systems. Passage of this bill gave long-awaited certainty to the solar markets in the US with both residential and utility scale solar companies set to benefit. In addition, the bill offers substantial incentives for wind, biofuels, and fuel cells. This is likely just a first step toward a more active US national policy approach towards renewables, given that President-elect Barak Obama supports carbon mitigation legislation at the federal level. And with the US consuming nearly 25% of the world’s energy, once the federal government starts putting effective price signals in place, the pace of cleantech innovation is likely to balloon.

A second encouraging sign came in the form of GE’s public announcement on October 20th, which included results and expectations from its environmental business. Despite the economic downturn, GE said it expects 2008 revenue from its energy efficiency products to increase by 21% to $17 billion since last year. Its annual investment in cleaner research and development will surpass $1.4 billion, a $300M increase over last year. GE also said it has cut greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations by 8%, from about 7.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, since 2004. Energy cost savings to GE have so far been $100 million. "There is a green lining among the current economic storm clouds and GE customers and investors are benefiting," said Jeff Immelt, GE’s CEO. "Cleaner innovation and technology resonate in the marketplace, while we slash our own energy and water costs and emissions, further strengthening GE's competitive position and the advantage GE offers to its customers."

GE is betting its future on cleantech innovation, and they are not the only large company doing so. Policymakers in Washington extended renewable energy tax credits for 8 years and that is likely just a prelude to more far-reaching national legislation. So yes, in the short term, cleantech markets will likely be jittery as a result of financial volatility and the precipitous decline in oil prices. A reduction in the price of oil will go hand in hand with reductions in the price of natural gas and even coal-generated electricity. The immediate impetus for change at the consumer level may ease as energy bills come down.

Later stage cleantech companies that were counting on access to public markets or significant debt financing to fund their future growth are going to have a challenging time ahead. We can expect a drop in cleantech VC investments in Q4, as compared to Q3, and likely continuing into 2009. But the bigger picture is that unlike with previous oil price declines, this time the larger, more sustained drivers for cleantech innovation are not likely to disappear from the consciousness of policymakers and industrial giants.

To conclude, let me put things into a slightly more personal perspective. When we completed the first closing of Israel Cleantech Ventures in January 2007, oil prices were at $55 per barrel. At the time, that price was considered relatively high. We have now made nine investments and, despite the unprecedented drop in commodity prices of late, oil still has not returned to that price point. Yet just since January 2007, we humans have emitted about 50 billion additional metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents into the atmosphere, increased the world’s population by 150 million people (that’s about 20x Israel’s total population), and provided OPEC (including countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Libya) with $1.6 trillion worth of oil revenues (that’s the equivalent of 10x Israel’s GDP).

Needless to say, the motivating forces behind cleantech are here to stay. In fact, as former President Bill Clinton recently remarked, once we stop looking to make money out of money and go back to making money out of business innovation, the cleantech industry will be at the center of that innovation, leading us out of recession and into the next great phase of economic growth. Now, more than ever, is a perfect time for Israeli cleantech entrepreneurs to start new businesses and to secure this country’s part in that next great phase of growth.

The author is a partner at Israel Cleantech Ventures. http://www.israelcleantech.com/

Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-UP; Renewable Energy Stocks Trading Up in Anticipation of an Obama Win?

Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-UP; Renewable Energy Stocks Trading Up in Anticipation of an Obama Win?

POINT ROBERTS, WA and DELTA, BC—November 4, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on renewable energy stocks and the recent trading activity pending the election. As the sector trades up, two experts comment on the future of renewable energy.

According to solar expert Peter Lynch, feature writer of the Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives at Investorideas.com http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/ ,
"Senator Obama truly understands that energy is the greatest problem that he will face as President. He realizes that the age of oil and fossil fuels are drawing to a necessary close. He also realizes that Global Warming is one of the greatest hazards of our time. Most thinking people realize this too, but to date, we have had no leadership capable of leading the world in a new direction. As President Obama can be this leader, he will be the catalyst for the dawn of the solar revolution.”

Dr. Robert Wilder, of the WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) comments , “ Like a rubber band that's been stretched quite far, the fact the U.S. fell behind other nations in clean energy the past eight years now looks like it may snap back the other way. Combining a fresh new White House outlook that's positive on green jobs, with a Congress led by a pro-renewable outlook in the House and possibly even 60 vote majority in the Senate means new thinking becomes possible. Old dominance by fossil fuels may even wane: the many harms from coal and oil for instance might be treated for the first time as the problems they are. And better energy independence too could be taken seriously. Whether by cap and trade, or a carbon tax, those carbon laden fuels may even help generate the revenues for new U.S. clean energy, and green jobs here at home.”

Solar Stocks Sector Close-Up as of Trading November 3, 2008:

First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:FSLR) (Market, News) closed up $18.21 (12.67%).
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) was up$ 0.20 (7.12%)
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) closed up 0.90 (23.75%)
LDK Solar ADR (LDK) (Market, News) increased $4.22 (23.20%)
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) spiked $5.02 (12.85%)
Clear Skies Solar Inc. (OTCBB: CSKH) was up $0.05 (16.67%)
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTI) was up $0.68 (13.08%)
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) was up $0.99 (18.79%)

The WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) was up 4.31 (4.22%).

Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/


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VeraSun Energy Corporation Launches Chapter 11 Case to Enhance Liquidity While It Reorganizes

VeraSun Energy Corporation Launches Chapter 11 Case to Enhance Liquidity While It Reorganizes

Friday October 31, 10:00 pm ET
Production Facilities Expected to Continue Operations


SIOUX FALLS, S.D., Oct. 31 -- VeraSun Energy Corporation (NYSE: VSE - News), one of the nation's largest ethanol producers announced today the Company and 24 of its subsidiaries have filed voluntary petitions for relief under chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to enhance liquidity while they reorganize.



The filing was precipitated by a series of events that led to a contraction in VeraSun's liquidity, impairing its ability to operate its business and invest in production facilities. The Company suffered significant losses in the third quarter of 2008 from a dramatic spike in its corn costs, reflecting in part costs attributable to its corn procurement and hedging arrangements, and historically unfavorable margins. Beginning in the third quarter, worsening capital market conditions and a tightening of trade credit resulted in severe constraints on the Company's liquidity position. Faced with these constraints, VeraSun and 24 of its subsidiaries filed their chapter 11 petitions to facilitate access to additional liquidity while they reorganize to take better advantage of VeraSun's position as one of the nation's largest producers of ethanol.

Company Intends To Maintain Operations

During the chapter 11 proceedings, VeraSun plans to resume normal operations. The Company has taken steps to ensure continued supply of product to its customers and to fulfill all customer obligations. In that regard, VeraSun is working closely with its lenders and expects to reach an agreement before the "first day" hearing on Monday for additional committed financing to provide adequate liquidity to fund operations in the normal course.

The Company expects that it will not scale back its purchases of raw materials, and corn and other suppliers will continue to be paid in full for all goods and services furnished after the filing date as required by the Bankruptcy Code. The Company has also sought authority from the bankruptcy court to pay for goods delivered to the Company on or after October 11, 2008.

VeraSun has also requested the bankruptcy court's approval to continue to pay employees in the ordinary course without interruption, and expects the request to be granted as part of the court's "first day" orders.

"Today's filing allows VeraSun to address its short-term liquidity constraints as we navigate historically challenging market conditions while we focus on restructuring to address the company's long-term future," Don Endres CEO said. "We appreciate the loyalty of our employees, customers and suppliers during this challenging time."

About VeraSun Energy Corporation

VeraSun Energy Corp. (NYSE: VSE - News), headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D., is a leading producer and marketer of ethanol and distillers grains. Founded in 2001, the company has a fleet of 16 production facilities in eight states, of which one is still under construction. VeraSun Energy is scheduled to have an annual production capacity of approximately 1.64 billion gallons of ethanol and more than 5 million tons of distillers grains by the end of 2008.

VeraSun also markets E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline for use in Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFVs), directly to fuel retailers under the brand VE85®. For more information, please visit VeraSun Energy's websites at http://www.verasun.com or http://www.VE85.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In particular, statements by VeraSun and its subsidiaries (the "Company") regarding future events and developments and the Company's future performance, including statements regarding proceedings relating to the Company's petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of Title 11 of the United States Code and the Company's operations and funding during the chapter 11 process, as well as other statements of management's expectations, anticipations, beliefs, plans, intentions, targets, estimates, or projections and similar expressions relating to the future, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of these laws. Forward-looking statements in some cases can be identified by their being preceded by, followed by or containing words such as "estimate," "plan," "project," "forecast," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "seek," "target" and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by the Company's management in light of their experience and their perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of the Company's future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Some of the factors that may cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by any forward-looking statements include the following: the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern; the ability of the Company to obtain debtor-in-possession financing and to operate pursuant to the terms of any debtor-in-possession financing; the Company's ability to obtain court approval with respect to motions in the chapter 11 proceeding prosecuted by it from time to time, including approval of motions relating to the priority of the lender's security interest under any debtor-in-possession financing; the ability of the Company to develop, prosecute, confirm and consummate one or more plans of reorganization with respect to the chapter 11 cases; risks associated with third parties seeking and obtaining court approval to terminate or shorten the exclusivity period for the Company to propose and confirm one or more plans of reorganization, for the appointment of a chapter 11 trustee or to convert the cases to chapter 7 cases; the ability of the Company to obtain and maintain normal terms with vendors and service providers; the Company's ability to maintain contracts that are critical to its operations; the potential adverse impact of the chapter 11 cases on the Company's liquidity or results of operations; the ability of the Company to fund and execute its business plan; the ability of the Company to attract, motivate and/or retain key executives and employees; the ability of the Company to attract and retain customers; the volatility and uncertainty of corn, natural gas, ethanol, unleaded gasoline and other commodities prices; the Company's ability to generate sufficient liquidity to fund its operations and capital expenditures; the results of the Company's hedging transactions and other risk mitigation strategies; risk of potential goodwill and other intangible impairment; operational disruptions at the Company's facilities; the effects of vigorous competition and excess capacity in the industries in which the Company operates; the costs and business risks associated with developing new products and entering new markets; the development of infrastructure related to the sale and distribution of ethanol; the effects of other mergers and consolidations in the biofuels industry and unexpected announcements or developments from others in the biofuels industry; the uncertainties related to the Company's acquisitions of US BioEnergy Corporation, ASA OpCo Holdings, LLC and other businesses, including the Company's ability to achieve the expected benefits from these acquisitions; the impact of any new, emerging and competing technologies on the Company's business; the possibility of one or more of the markets in which the Company competes being impacted by political, legal and regulatory changes or other external factors over which the Company has no control; changes in or elimination of governmental laws, credits, tariffs, trade or other controls or enforcement practices; the impact of any potential Renewable Fuel Standards waiver; the Company's ability to comply with various environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations; the success of the Company's marketing and sales efforts; the Company's reliance on key management personnel; the Company's ability to secure additional financing; the volatility of the market price of VeraSun's stock; the Company's ability to implement additional financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures and continue to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as amended; and the risk factors described in VeraSun's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the prospectus supplement filed on September 16, 2008. Similarly, these and other factors, including the terms of any reorganization plan ultimately confirmed, can affect the value of the Company's various pre-petition liabilities and VeraSun's common stock. No assurance can be given as to what values, if any, will be ascribed in the chapter 11 proceeding to each of these constituencies. Accordingly, the Company urges that the appropriate caution be exercised with respect to existing and future investments in any of these liabilities and/or securities.


VeraSun Contacts:
Media:
Mike Lockrem
605-978-7055
mlockrem@verasun.com

Investors:
Patty Dickerson
605-978-7137
pdickerson@verasun.com




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: VeraSun Energy Corporation

US venture capital investment in cleantech companies reaches record $1.6 billion in Q3 2008 with a surge in later stage financings

US venture capital investment in cleantech companies reaches record $1.6 billion in Q3 2008 with a surge in later stage financings

Solar continues to lead US cleantech investment with seven of top 10 deals

San Francisco, October 30, 2008 — Venture capital investments in US cleantech companies reached a record $1.6 billion in Q3 2008, up 55% from the previous quarter, according to an Ernst & Young LLP analysis based on data from Dow Jones VentureSource. A total of $3.3 billion was invested in the first three quarters of 2008, surpassing the figure for the same period last year by 71%.

Later-stage rounds, which increased 177% to $906 million in Q3 from $327 million in Q2, were a major driver of the investment growth. These later-stage financings accounted for 55% of total capital invested in Q3, compared to just 36% in the prior quarter. This increase comes as many cleantech companies move into the capital intensive commercialization phase.

“In light of challenging economic times, the US cleantech market may be entering a transitional period. However, the structural market drivers of the cleantech sector remain intact, suggesting that the prospect for long-term market development is positive,” says Joseph Muscat, Americas Director of Cleantech and Venture Capital, Ernst & Young LLP. “Factors such as technological advances, consumer demand and programs at both the federal and state-level help to create the conditions needed for long-term growth in cleantech.”

A look at the investors in the 10 largest financings in Q3 suggests that cleantech companies are pairing venture financing with other funding sources to support their capital-intensive commercialization initiatives. Six of the 10 top deals incorporated private equity firms, hedge funds and sovereign wealth funds as first time investors in the entity. Two deals included initial investments by a strategic corporate investor.

Energy/Electricity Generation companies attracted the most investment of any cleantech segment in Q3 — $1 billion. Solar companies were by far the largest component of this segment with $990 million invested in 14 rounds, a quarter-on-quarter increase of 66% in capital, with no change in the number of rounds. Large follow-on rounds characterized solar financings in Q3. For example, SolarReserve, a company in Santa Monica, CA that develops solar thermal power plants, closed one of the quarter’s top deals with a $140 million second round. Solar companies closed on seven of the top 10 deals this quarter.

The Energy Efficiency segment also experienced continued growth with $186 million invested in Q3, an increase of 278% compared to the prior quarter and 48% compared to same period last year. This segment’s financings were led by Gridpoint, a smart grid company in Arlington, VA, that raised $120 million in a fourth round.

The third largest segment in Q3 was Alternative Fuels, which comprised 6% of overall US cleantech investment. The segment, made up entirely of biofuels, attracted $95 million of investment, a decline of 26% from the previous quarter. However, through the first three quarters of 2008 this sector attracted $455 million, an increase of 7% compared to the same period last year. Sapphire Energy, a biofuels company in Del Mar, CA, received the largest injection of capital in this sector with a $50 million second round of financing.

This was also a significant quarter for emerging cleantech segments. In the transportation sector, Fisker Automotive, Inc., an Irvine, CA green sports car company, raised $65 million to develop the first four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports car. The Water sector had its strongest quarter yet with three equity financings that totaled $45.5 million.


Q3 2008 cleantech market drivers and related developments

The cleantech market received a significant boost from the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, which extended tax credits for wind energy, geothermal, biomass and other renewable energy projects. The solar investment tax credit for utility-scale solar projects was extended for eight years. Qualified fuel cell properties received the same incentive, a development that could position this segment for additional investment.

The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a mandatory cap-and-trade program to reduce CO2 emissions from the power sector in ten Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states by 10%, became operational in September with its first auction of emission allowances. Potomac Economics reported that at the auction demand for certificates exceeded supply by more than four to one. At the same time, seven US states and four Canadian provinces endorsed the cap-and-trade plan developed by the Western Climate Initiative (WCI). RGGI and WCI will likely drive long-term demand for efficiency and emissions-reduction technologies.

Two of the seven US domiciled IPOs in Q3 2008 were completed by cleantech companies whose offerings raised $637 million (67%) of the $944 million total IPO proceeds in the period, demonstrating the ability of the sector to raise capital even in challenging market conditions. GT Solar International Inc., based in Merrimack, NH, raised $500 million in the largest US-domiciled IPO of the quarter. There are currently eight cleantech companies registered for an IPO seeking an average capital raise of $415 million, almost double the overall average for IPOs in registration ($222 million) according to Thomson Financial’s SDC. Merger and acquisition activity also continue to flow steadily with 14 alternative energy transactions in North America in Q3 and two additional deals in October 2008 according to J.S. Herold.


Note to editors:

Ernst & Young uses the following definitions to classify the cleantech industry and its sub-sectors:

Clean technology encompasses a diverse range of innovative products and services that optimize the use of natural resources or reduce the negative environmental impact of their use while creating value by lowering costs, improving efficiency, or providing superior performance.


Alternative Fuels - Biofuels; natural gas (LNG)
Energy / Electricity Generation - Gasification, tidal/wave, hydrogen, geothermal, solar, wind, hydro
Energy Storage - Batteries, fuel cells, flywheels
Energy Efficiency - Energy efficiency products, power and efficiency management services, industrial products
Water - Treatment processes, conservation & monitoring
Environment - Air, recycling, waste
Industry Focused Products and Services - Agriculture, construction, transportation, materials, consumer products


About Ernst & Young’s Strategic Growth Markets Network

Ernst & Young’s worldwide Strategic Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of rapid-growth companies. For more than 30 years, we’ve helped many of the world’s most dynamic and ambitious companies grow into market leaders. Whether working with international mid-cap companies or early stage venture-backed businesses, our professionals draw upon their extensive experience, insight and global resources to help your business achieve its potential. It’s how Ernst & Young makes a difference.

About Ernst & Young
Ernst & Young is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, our 135,000 people are united by our shared values and an unwavering commitment to quality. We make a difference by helping our people, our clients and our wider communities achieve their potential.

For more information, please visit www.ey.com.

Ernst & Young refers to the global organization of member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.

Spire to provide 30 MW Solar Cell Manufacturing Line to Korea

Spire to provide 30 MW Solar Cell Manufacturing Line to Korea
Spire’s 30 MW per year high efficiency silicon cell line expands Spire’s presence in turnkey cell

BEDFORD, Mass.--Oct 28 2008 --Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR), a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules worldwide, today announced that Spire has been awarded a contract to provide a Spi-Line 30C complete turnkey factory to produce up to 30 megawatts (MW) per year of high efficiency solar cells for Hanwha Chemical Corporation (Hanwha). This is Hanwha’s entrance into the solar market and they made the decision to work with Spire as a partner after extensive research and investigation. This will become one of the most modern cell factories in Korea.

Spire has had more than 25 years experience in developing solar cell processing technology which is embedded in Spire’s turnkey cell line. The turnkey line includes all required processing equipment and critical process knowledge for making high efficiency cells. The Spi-Line 30C is capable of producing high efficiency cells using either mono- or multi- crystalline wafers. In addition, Spire provides in-depth training, factory layout, facilities and on-site support. Hanwha will be self-sufficient and able to operate the line without assistance after a ramp and qualification period. The solar cell line is scaleable, allowing Hanwha to easily increase capacity beyond 30 MW once the line is fully qualified and meeting production goals.

“We are excited to win this important contract. Spire is known worldwide for its module lines but this contract highlights Spire’s cell line expertise,” said Roger Little, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Spire Corporation. “Spire’s experience in solar cell production lines is also valuable to our module line customers to allow them to backward integrate.”

Hanwha’s senior officer related to the solar project stated, “We had an extremely thorough process for choosing a partner to provide this key element of our solar business and Spire was the clear winner. They represent the best choice as a partner for this turnkey factory. Their deep technical knowledge and proven ability to make their customers successful set them apart from all others.”

About Hanwha Chemical Corporation Ltd.

Hanwha Chemical Corporation, an affiliate of South Korea’s Hanwha Group, is a leading manufacturer of synthetic resins and various petrochemical products in Asia. Their products are widely utilized as industrial films, packaging products, and construction materials, as well as abrasives for semiconductors. Hanwha plans to produce high-efficiency solar cells on a large scale by the end of 2009 and gradually expand its focus to polysilicon, ingot and wafers. For more information, please visit www.hanwha.co.kr.

About Spire Corporation

Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor develops and manufactures custom gallium arsenide solar cells and other related products. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.

Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contacts
Spire Corporation
Roger G Little, 781-275-6000
Chairman & CEO

Solar Stocks Investor Podcast; Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) Discusses Amorphous Thin Film, the “Thinnest of the Thin Films”

Solar Stocks Investor Podcast; Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) Discusses Amorphous Thin Film, the “Thinnest of the Thin Films”

Mr. Djokovich comments on the long term vision for renewable energy – “Once the financial markets calm down there will be a reinvigorated movement of money into the space”



POINT ROBERTS, WA - October 28, 2008 -- Investorideas.com and its leading green investor portal, RenewableEnergyStocks.com, presents a solar stocks podcast with Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX, Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX). XsunX is executing a phased plan to build and install its amorphous silicon thin film solar module manufacturing facility.

Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX, discusses his return from the Solar Power International 2008 Conference and Trade Show in San Diego and the feedback and industry insight into the solar sector, and in particular thin film.

Mr. Djokovich reports on the thin film pricing advantage in the market place and if this is a tangible reality or hearsay. “Yes, thin films really do have a pricing advantage in the marketplace. The bottom line is you are starting with lower material costs and more automation, and of the thin films, amorphous is the thinnest. The lower manufacturing cost per watt translates into the ability to sell at a lower cost into the marketplace.”

Mr. Djokovich also discusses XsunX’s costs per watt once the manufacturing facility is up and running. “We see ourselves initially coming in at approximately the $1.30 range at only 58% factory utilization, and we think we can drive our numbers down to $1.00 per watt once we improve factory utilization to 80% or better. After that we will work on reducing the back end packaging costs further. At or near $1.00 per watt will make us extremely competitive in the marketplace.”

Mr. Djokovich also comments on the long term vision for renewable energy,” Once the financial markets calm down there will be a reinvigorated movement of money into the space. The industry is not just poised for growth- it is continuing to grow and right now it is being overshadowed by market conditions. The bottom line in the back room is the industry is growing very well.”

To hear the full audio interview click here:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.investorideas.com/podcasts/2008/102708a.mp3

Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX (OTCBB: XSNX): Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/

About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.

About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

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Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/

Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. XsunX compensate the website $5000 per month.
www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
* All interview content is based on previously disclosed public information in SEC filings and press releases.

For more information contact:

Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source: InvestorIdeas.com, RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX

Solar Stocks Plunge with Market but Ray of Hope Ahead

Solar Stocks Plunge with Market but Ray of Hope Ahead

By Peter Lynch
Exclusively for InvestorIdeas.com
October 27, 2008

Since 2005 Solar stocks have been the “hottest” sector in the stock market, however, with an average Beta close to 2, the volatility of the solar sector has been simply breathtaking.

Unfortunately Beta and volatility works in BOTH directions and as you can see from the table below solar stocks have been down an average of 61% SINCE September 1 2008. The popular indexes have been down approximately 31%.

In essence, it has been a TERRIBLE time for the market as a whole and a WORSE time for the solar sector.


Symbol Name
Performance %

AKNS
Akeena Solar, Inc.
-44.2

ASTI
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.
-56.9

CSIQ
Canadian Solar Inc.
-74.4

CSUN
China Sunergy Company Ltd.
-69.1

DSTI
DayStar Technologies Inc.
-44.9

EMKR
EMCORE Corporation
-38.6

ENER
Energy Conversion Devices Inc
-59.4

ESLR
Evergreen Solar, Inc.
-72.6

FSLR
First Solar, Inc.
-56.4

JASO
JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd
-78.9

LDK
LDK Solar Company Ltd.
-69.5

RSOL
Real Goods Solar, Inc.
-49.8

SOL
ReneSola, Ltd. (United Kingdom) ADR
-73.9

SOLF
Solarfun Power Holdings Co.
-68.9

SOLR
GT Solar International Inc
-65.4

SPIR
Spire Corporation
-21.4

SPWRA
Sunpower Corporation
-59.2

STP
Suntech Power Holdings (China) ADR
-69.4

TSL
Trina Solar Limited
-67.4

WFR
MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc.
-61.8

YGE
Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Ltd
-80.1






Average Stock: 9/1/08 to 10/24/08
-61.2






Popular Indexes






DJIA
Dow Jones
-27.4

SPX
S & P 500
-31.7

NASD
Nasdaq
-34.4





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As I said in my last article (10-13-2008) – I think that a stock market bottom is close to being in place. There may be more crazy days and perhaps weeks ahead. But if you look at historical precedence, stocks should be higher 3 to 6 months from now. Especially now, that we are seeing the forbidden word “recession” starting to pop up everywhere. This is usually the classic sign that the market has bottomed and once everyone finally recognizes that the recession is here (I personally think we have been in a recession for 10 to 12 months already), the market will be up 20 to 30% off the bottom. This is certainly NOT a sure bet, but when panic and fear are this palpable EVERYWHERE it has historically meant that investors have given up and capitulated.

If we look at the short history of solar stocks, they too, should be lifted by the market tide and should also move higher further and faster than the general market. They are ALL well oversold and still have a BETA which is roughly TWICE that of the general market.

In addition, if Senator Obama wins the Presidency it will be hugely BULLISH for all renewable sectors of the market (PV, wind, biomass, hybrid cars, solar thermal etc .) this victory, plus a turn in the market could add an explosive charge to solar stocks.

As I have said many times in the past, I still see a number of serious problems that the industry will face in 2009 and beyond. But I do feel there will be at least one more rally that will enable traders to take significant profits. But once again, I have to warn investors that this is NOT for the faint of heart and only for nimble traders. In addition, because of the current situation in the financial world you want to MAKE SURE to only trade the solar stocks with substantial CASH positions.

I believe that the risks of inaction are so great that governments will have to finally act in concert to create much needed confidence and thereby reverse this crisis of confidence that is the seed of the current panic.

Remember the words of the legendary investor Warren Buffet, who has recently said that he is returning to the market with his personal investment dollars:

"We simply attempt to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful."

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mr. Lynch has worked, for 31 years as a Wall Street security analyst, an independent security analyst and private investor in small emerging technology companies. He has been actively involved in following developments in the renewable energy sector since 1977 and is regarded as an expert in this field. He was the contributing editor for 17 years to the Photovoltaic Insider Report, the leading publication in PV that was directed at industrial subscribers, such as major energy companies, utilities and governments around the world. He is currently a private investor and has from time to time been a financial/technology consultant to a number of companies. He can be reached via e-mail at: SOLARJPL@aol.com.

Investorideas.com Green Investor Podcast Series - The U.S. Department of Energy’s Andy Karsner offers an outlook on U.S. policy on renewable energy

Investorideas.com Green Investor Podcast Series - The U.S. Department of Energy’s Andy Karsner offers an outlook on U.S. policy on renewable energy

POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., October 21, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides an audio interview/Podcast with The U.S. Department of Energy’s Andy Karsner on his outlook on U.S. policy on renewable energy.

The Green Investor Audio series, hosted by well- known financial columnist Michael Brush, who also writes the Insiders Corner for Investorideas.com, is a series of audio interviews/Podcasts with some of the leading CEO's, investment banking and industry leaders in the sector.

The interview took place prior to the House of Representatives Oct. 1 passing of the $700-billion economic bailout bill that included extensions for renewable energy and energy efficiency tax credits.

Mr. Karsner points out in his interview, that every source of energy has a Government nexus- including oil and gas and nuclear.

Host Michael Brush asks Mr. Karsner in closing what advice he would give his successor and the three or four main policy points he would focus on.

“Bottom line – Government needs to get out its own way and stop presuming it has the solutions, and simplify long term predictable solutions that enable entrepreneurs and innovators in the marketplace” Mr. Karsner responds.

Investorideas.com Green Investor Audio Series
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/

Podcast Summary:

An outlook for U.S. policy on renewable energy-
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Andy Karsner offers an outlook on U.S. policy on renewable energy. Karsner is the assistant secretary of the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the Department of Energy.

Listen to Podcast:
http://static.investorideas.com.s3.amazonaws.com/podcasts/2008/gi102108.mp3


Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Michael also writes the Insiders Corner Exclusively for Investorideas.com.

About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
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Submit green, cleantech and renewable energy news & press releases
News is featured on Investorideas.com Newswire, Renewable RSS Feeds, and Greentechinvestor.com & Renewablenergystocks.com - click here
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The Global Green Marketplace at Investorideas.com – a meeting place for investors and business in cleantech: http://www.investorideas.com/marketplace/.
About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/

Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

For Additional Information:

Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com

Source – Investorideas.com

HP Unveils Renewable Energy Research Initiatives; Pledges to Double Renewable Power Use by 2012

HP Unveils Renewable Energy Research Initiatives; Pledges to Double Renewable Power Use by 2012

PALO ALTO, Calif.--October 20 2008 --HP (NYSE:HPQ) today unveiled renewable energy initiatives in its facilities, research and products to support a new goal to double the company’s global purchases of renewable power from under 4 percent in 2008 to 8 percent by 2012.

This complements HP’s goal to reduce energy consumption and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions from HP-owned and HP-leased facilities worldwide to 16 percent below 2005 levels by 2010.

To reduce its carbon footprint, HP is relying on diversified renewable energy resources, improving energy efficiency and placing a strong emphasis on energy reduction and optimization at a number of its facilities around the world.

In 2007, HP successfully met its goal to increase renewable energy purchases by more than 350 percent and purchased 61.4 million kilowatt hours (kwh) of renewable energy and renewable energy credits in the United States.

“HP is investing in technologies that bring us closer to operating in a sustainable IT ecosystem,” said John Frey, senior sustainability executive, HP. “We are supporting renewable energy programs for our own operational efficiency, harnessing research to demonstrate environmental leadership and offering products that support customer concerns about rising energy costs.”

Harnessing solar and wind power

HP recently completed a 1.1-megawatt, 6,256 solar panel system at its facility in San Diego. This is one of the largest solar power installations in the County of San Diego and is projected to save the company $750,000 during the next 15 years while providing more than 10 percent of the facility’s power. Further, the system will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 60 million pounds over the next 30 years. This is equivalent to providing electricity to 3,800 homes or removing more than 5,250 cars from the road over this time period.

SunPower (http://www.sunpowercorp.com/) installed the system and GE Energy Financial Services, a unit of GE that owns the system under SunPower Access, will provide the electricity under a power purchase agreement.

HP also extended the benefits of solar power to its U.S. employees. To date, more than 600 HP employees and retirees have requested an evaluation of a home system installation, and more than 60 have completed an installation or are under contract to install SunPower systems at their homes.

HP elected to participate in Austin’s Green Choice program, to procure almost 19.9 million kwh of wind energy from wind farms in western Texas for two of its Austin data centers, which represents nearly 20 percent of the annual energy used by the two centers. Additionally, the facilities are using the HP Dynamic Smart Cooling (DSC) system, which enables real-time changes to air conditioners, fans, vents and computing equipment help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and reduce energy costs.

HP DSC typically yields energy savings of 20 to 40 percent over legacy HP data centers. HP’s Austin data centers are on track to achieve energy cost savings of more than $100,000 annually based on the integration of HP DSC technology.

HP consolidated three of its facilities in Melbourne, Australia, with sustainability in mind. The new facility design included orienting the building to strategically reduce energy consumption associated with heating and cooling and using energy-efficient lighting. As a result, HP expects to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions by 70 percent.

Sustainable IT ecosystem

HP is leveraging renewable and non-renewable resources to effectively and efficiently manage a limited supply of available energy. The use of various sources of power throughout its operations will support the development of HP’s micro-grid for power and cooling distribution in the data center facility, which ensures efficiency, manageability and regulatory requirements while meeting service level agreements.

HP Labs, the company’s central research arm, has initiated research that uses nanowire photonics to potentially increase the efficiency of solar cells to more than 20 percent. This development allows solar cells to operate on a level of those used in expensive deep-space applications, while being manufactured at much lower costs, like those used in pocket calculators or to recharge portable devices.

Nanowire photonics may be integrated with a greater selection of conductor materials, allowing for low-cost options. In the future, nanowire photonics may optimize renewable energy throughout the IT industry and other business sectors.

Taking steps to reduce the energy required for manufacturing and distributing products, HP plans to reduce the energy consumption of its volume desktop and notebook PC families by 25 percent, relative to 2005. Today, HP announced two new desktop PCs and a display designed to have reduced impact on the environment with energy-efficient processors and recyclable packaging.

The HP Pavilion Verde Special Edition a6645f and HP Pavilion Phoenix Special Edition a6655f desktop PCs are ENERGY STAR® qualified and meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The products also meet the standards for the Silver registration in the Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT™), one of the highest ratings products can achieve for their environmental attributes. In addition, HP announced the ergonomically designed 25.5-inch HP w2558hc Vivid Color display, which is ENERGY STAR qualified and offers a Power Saver feature that helps to reduce energy consumption.

The special-edition desktop PCs provide up to 45 percent energy savings compared to PCs without power management enabled and come in 100 percent recyclable packaging with less plastic foam.

HP and the environment

For decades HP has been an environmental leader, driving company stewardship through its holistic design for environment strategy. HP influences industry action through its long-standing commitment to maintain supply chain responsibility, sustain energy efficient operations, reduce its climate impact and offer product reuse and recycling options. HP also makes it easier for customers to recognize environmental attributes through HP Eco Solutions, a program that helps customers identify products and services designed with the environment in mind. More information is available at www.hp.com/environment.

About HP

HP, the world’s largest technology company, provides printing and personal computing products and IT services, software and solutions that simplify the technology experience for consumers and businesses. HP completed its acquisition of EDS on Aug. 26, 2008. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com/.

Note to editors: More news from HP, including links to RSS feeds, is available at http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/newsroom/.

ENERGY STAR is a registered mark owned by the U.S. government.

This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to products and services; anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the achievement of expected results; and other risks that are described in HP’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended July 31, 2008 and HP’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to HP’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2007. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

© 2008 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

Contacts
HP
Pamela Bonney, +1-650-857-5316
pamela.bonney@hp.com
or
HP Media Hotline
+1-866-266-7272
pr@hp.com
www.hp.com/go/newsroom

Spire Wins Contract to Provide Elements of the Spi-Line(TM) TF Back End for Thin Film Modules

Spire Wins Contract to Provide Elements of the Spi-Line(TM) TF Back End for Thin Film Modules


BEDFORD, Mass.--October 14 2008 --Spire Corporation , a global solar company providing turnkey solar factories and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic modules and cells worldwide, today announced that Spire has won a contract to provide certain elements of the Spi-Lineâ„¢ 25TF turnkey factory to produce 25 megawatts (MW) of amorphous thin film modules to XsunX in Portland, Oregon. This will be XsunXs first factory in full production of their unique thin film technology.

Spires turnkey line is comprehensive and includes all of the process tools and services to create finished modules from the output of the deposition system. Substrates require testing for deposition feedback, specialized busing to connect the amorphous silicon cells in addition to the traditional lamination, framing, and final simulation. In addition to the process systems, Spire will provide in-depth training and knowledge transfer to ensure XsunX will achieve full output quickly.

The Spi-Line 25TF is capable of producing modules from any of the most popular thin film technologies. Systems are in use at most major and emerging companies utilizing cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and amorphous silicon (a-Si). The Spi-Line can be tailored to fit the specifics of each customer’s process as well as scaleable, to increase capacity beyond 25MW once the line is fully qualified and meeting production goals.

We are excited to win the business at XsunX. Spire has a robust and growing business in thin film, working with all technologies,” said, Roger Little, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Spire Corporation. “Spire’s experience in solar cell production is significant and enhanced by our work in cell design. We have teams of experts focused in the key areas of process, design, and facilities, and these teams are further backed up by Spire Semiconductor, LLC, our semiconductor division, operating a gallium arsenide foundry.”

Joseph Grimes, Chief Operating Officer of XsunX said, “We are delighted to be working with Spire Corporation, whose products can be found in numerous solar module assembly plants throughout the world. The agreement we have entered into with Spire Corporation for certain aspects of our system is the culmination of a working relationship we have developed over the past year in which we have recognized their experience, technology and process knowledge.”

About XsunX

Based in Aliso Viejo, California, XsunX, Inc. (XSNX.OB) is a thin-film photovoltaic (TFPV) company. XsunX is executing a phased plan to build and install 100MW of a-Si thin film solar module manufacturing capacity. The Company is working to complete the installation of its base production infrastructure in Portland, Oregon, USA in 2008, and then grow capacities to 25MW by early 2009, and to 100MW by early 2010.

About Spire Corporation

Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor develops and manufactures custom gallium arsenide solar cells and other related products. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.

Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


Spire Corporation
Roger Little, 781-275-6000
Chairman & CEO

SOCIAL INVESTMENT FORUM: CLEAN ENERGY/GREEN TECHNOLOGY FOCUS GROWING IN MUTUAL FUNDS, OTHER INVESTMENTS

SOCIAL INVESTMENT FORUM: CLEAN ENERGY/GREEN TECHNOLOGY FOCUS GROWING IN MUTUAL FUNDS, OTHER INVESTMENTS

Social Investment Forum Survey Finds 100 Percent of Respondents Report Growing Demand; 10 or More New Clean Energy/Green Technology Mutual Funds/Other Investments Expected

WASHINGTON, D.C.///October 16, 2008///Mutual fund families and financial professionals offering clean energy and “green technology” investment vehicles to investors are seeing strong demand for such offerings and plan to make available several new related investment vehicles by the end of 2009, according to a new survey of the 500-member Social Investment Forum (SIF), the U.S. membership association for socially and environmentally responsible investment professionals and institutions.

In detailed findings from a cross-section of 14 SIF members, the survey found:

* 100 percent of the respondents reported “clean energy/tech investing” demand is up among clients.

* 72 percent either responded “yes” (36 percent) or “possibly” (36 percent) when asked if they “have plans to introduce new clean energy/tech investing opportunities before the end of 2009.” (Based on the responses, this would result in a total of 10 or more possible new clean energy/green tech investment vehicles, including several mutual funds, ETFs and indexes.) Only four of the respondents indicated that they have no such plans.

* 17 mutual funds or other investment opportunities offered by the respondents now focus “exclusively on clean energy/tech investing.” The assets reported for these investment vehicles are in excess of a quarter of a billion dollars.

* Eight mutual funds or other investment opportunities focused “exclusively or partially on clean energy/tech” were identified as having been launched since January 1, 2007.

The group of core survey respondents were (in alphabetical order): Calvert, Eric Smith and Associates, First Affirmative Financial Network, 1st Portfolio, Green Century Capital Management, Troy Hunter (Walnut Street), KLD Research & Analytics, Krull & Company, MMA Praxis Mutual Funds, Pax World, Progressive Asset Management, SJF Ventures, Trillium Asset Management, and Winslow Management Co.
 
“As energy prices continue to fluctuate and the need to address climate change becomes ever more urgent, many investors want to blaze a trail for clean energy solutions that meet demand and respond to the impacts of climate change,” said Lisa Woll, chief executive officer of the Washington, D.C.-based SIF. “Our new survey confirms that Social Investment Forum members are at the forefront of ‘green technology’ and clean energy investing, which is rapidly becoming a major element of the mainstream American investment marketplace.”

Jack Robinson, president of Winslow Management Company in Boston, MA, and portfolio manager of the Winslow Green Growth Fund, said: “Winslow has been involved in green investing for over 25 years, and the level of interest in our investment offerings has never been higher.  Investors now recognize the growth opportunities that are available to companies that tackle climate change and develop clean sources of energy.  The recent passage of sweeping federal tax incentives in support of clean energy will only serve to accelerate the already exciting growth within this sector.” 

Bennett Freeman, senior vice president for social research and policy, Calvert mutual funds, Bethesda, MD., said: “We at Calvert believe that clean tech investment strategies are essential to address global sustainability challenges.  That is why in the last year we have introduced two new funds:  the Calvert Global Alternative Energy Fund, and the Calvert Global Water Fund – to do just that.”

Adam Seitchik, lead portfolio manager, Green Century Balanced Fund, and chief investment officer, Trillium Asset Management, Boston, MA., said: "Clean energy stocks have been crushed this year despite the fact that revenues and profits are growing rapidly. However, we believe that despite the increased risks associated with the credit crisis, the fundamentals of these firms are so strong that they will find necessary financing to continue rapid growth.  Among solar stocks we follow, revenues are likely to rise between 60 and 140 percent this year and between 45 and 200 percent next year, and most of the companies are now solidly profitable. Plunging stock prices have improved their valuations dramatically to between 10 and 20 times earnings.  These are extraordinarily attractive valuations for fast-growing companies even if the earnings estimates come down due to slowing economies and the credit crisis."
 
Other key Social Investment Forum findings include:

* The percentage of investments managed by the respondents that are “in vehicles that contain a mix of clean energy/tech and other screened investments” ranges from 20 percent to 100 percent.

* The percentage of “investments (that) are in vehicles focused exclusively on clean energy/tech” runs from a low of 2 percent to a high of 25 percent.

* Nearly two out of three respondents (64 percent) said that it is “very important” to them “that clean energy/tech investment options be combined with shareholder advocacy and activism work to help move company policy and practice towards” better practices.

ABOUT THE ONLINE SURVEY

The online survey consisted of 14 questions and was conducted during September-October 2008 among the members of the Social Investment Forum. Of more than two dozen unduplicated responses, 14 were found to be complete on all major questions and used as the basis of this survey. The SIF survey is a membership poll and is not being put forward as a scientific survey that can be projected to include non-respondents.

ABOUT THE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FORUM

The Social Investment Forum (http://www.socialinvest.org) is the national membership association for the social investment industry. It is dedicated to the concept, practice, and growth of socially responsible investing. SIF's 500-plus members include financial planners, banks, mutual fund companies, research companies, foundations, and community investing institutions. 
 
CONTACT:  Patrick Mitchell, (703) 276-3266 or pmitchell@hastingsgroup.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A streaming audio recording of the October 16, 2008 news event will be available on the Web by 6 p.m. EDT on October 16, 2008 at http://www.socialinvest.org.

Solar Stocks Investor Podcast with Tom Djokovich, CEO of Thin Film Solar Company, XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX)

Solar Stocks Investor Podcast with Tom Djokovich, CEO of Thin Film Solar Company, XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX)

“We envision thin film literally usurping the market share that silicon wafer technologies currently enjoy”


POINT ROBERTS, WA -October 15, 2008 -- Investorideas.com and its leading green investor portal, RenewableEnergyStocks.com, presents a solar podcast with Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX, Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX). XsunX, Inc is a solar technology Company engaged in the build-out of its multi-megawatt thin film photovoltaic solar manufacturing facilities.

Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX, discusses recent successes and milestones for his thin film company as well as recent industry developments including the recent passage of the solar ITC legislation.

In the interview, Tom provides background on the events and steps leading to the recent news that the Oregon Economic Development Association (OEDA) recognized XsunX as a Business Development Success Story in an award presented to the City of Wood Village, Oregon.

Tom also gives investors insight into thin film solar technology and its benefits, features and the feedback from the purchasing community. He also comments on a recent report where Sharp states they expect thin-film solar cells to account for about 40 percent of an estimated global solar demand of 16 gigawatts by 2012.

“In real world conditions - thin film tends to out-perform silicon wafer technologies in most environments. Thin films are less expensive to manufacture so you can sell them for less per watt- that’s benefit number one. Benefit number two is the consumer that acquires that watt gets more annual production for each watt they purchase”, he reports.

“At the trade shows we have been attending recently in Europe, the feedback from the Power Purchase Associations and large commercial application consumers is - they are prepared to pay a premium for thin films. They now realize the value of them but the issue is that there is very little thin film available in the market. As more of it becomes available in market space, what we envision is thin film literally usurping the market share that silicon wafer technologies currently enjoy. “

XsunX Inc is attending the upcoming San Diego Solar Power Show and will follow up with Investorideas.com in an audio interview upon return.

To hear the full audio interview click here:
http://static.investorideas.com.s3.amazonaws.com/podcasts/2008/101408a.mp3


Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX (OTCBB: XSNX): Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/

About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.

About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. XsunX compensate the website $5000 per month.
www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
* All interview content is based on previously disclosed public information in SEC filings and press releases.


For more information contact:

Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source: InvestorIdeas.com, RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX

“Water stocks are not recession proof but are recession resistant”

Investorideas.com Water Stocks Podcast; Bill Brennan Discusses the Performance of the Kinetics Water Infrastructure Fund, Global Water Industry Trends and Investing Trends

“Water stocks are not recession proof but are recession resistant”



POINT ROBERTS, WA and DELTA, BC –October 7, 2008- Investorideas.com and its Water-stocks.com Podcast series “Investing in Water” present an in-depth interview with Mr. Bill Brennan, President & Managing Partner of Aqua Terra Asset Management and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Praetor Global Water Fund. Mr. Brennan discusses the performance of the Kinetics Water Infrastructure Fund and global trends specific to the sector including water re-use and reclamation.

According to Mr. Brennan the Kinetics Water Infrastructure Fund, launched in June 2007, focuses on water infrastructure both globally and in the US. The fund is about 65% invested in companies that are domiciled outside of the US.

Mr. Brennan reports, ”“What we try to do is invest in the areas where infrastructure spending is accelerating. We have seen it go from about $250 -260 Billion 5 years ago to $520 Billion moving to a Trillion dollars in the next 4-5 years on an annual basis. We invest in companies that have a 30-40% exposure to water infrastructure and growing.

So you won’t see us involved in areas that are not water company related. We won’t be in the GE’s and the Siemens of the world, because even though they are big players in water and water infrastructure, their revenue does not move the needle enough from a contribution standpoint to make it into our universe. We have to watch those companies because they are actively involved in acquisitions and they have become the leaders in technology. We focus on the small and mid-cap companies that are really going to benefit from the increase in spending globally.”

In discussing the fund performance Mr. Brennan tells us, “The fund continues to out-perform the broader market by about 800-900 basis points in regard to the S&P and we also outperform the water ETF’s on an absolute performance basis.”

“Water stocks are not recession proof but are recession resistant”, he notes. “People have to take a look at necessities- where they spend. Water is a necessity along with power and waste management.”

To listen to the full interview: http://static.investorideas.com.s3.amazonaws.com/podcasts/2008/100608a.mp3

To hear previous audios from other water experts: http://www.investorideas.com/ws/
Investing in Water Podcast RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/Podcasts/water.xml

www.Water-Stocks.com, a portal within the InvestorIdeas.com content umbrella, offers investors research tools, news, Blogs, online conferences, Podcasts , interviews and a directory of public companies within the water sector .The water-stocks content hub has created a global marketplace and meeting place for investors, public companies, industry buyers and sellers of water technology, services and water assets.

About InvestorIdeas.com:

"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure:
www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

For More Information Contact:

Dawn Van Zant 800-665-0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com

Web Site: www.InvestorIdeas.com

Source: Water-Stocks.com

SEPA Statement on Historic 8-Year Solar Tax Credit Extension

SEPA Statement on Historic 8-Year Solar Tax Credit Extension

Removal of Utility Prohibition to Have Major Impact on Solar Market Development



WASHINGTON, D.C. – The passage of H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, provides critical news for the solar industry at large, but also for regulated electric utilities looking to diversify their energy mix with solar electric generation. In addition to extending the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) for 8 years, the legislation includes the removal of a prohibition that previously prevented electric utilities from taking advantage of the credit.



Based on announcements and discussions with utility executives this year, the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) predicts that utilities will quickly become the largest and one of the most important customers for the solar industry, expanding solar markets beyond analysts’ expectations. Access to the federal tax credit will expedite the timeframe and scale to which this happens.



“U.S. electric utilities’ engagement with grid-connected solar electricity has increased significantly in 2008, with major photovoltaic and concentrating solar thermal project announcements totaling more than 5,000 megawatts,” said Julia Hamm, SEPA executive director. “Without the ability to take direct advantage of the ITC, the only viable financial option was to have these plants be owned and operated by independent power producers who then in turn sell the electricity to the utility. The change to the tax credit facilitates utility ownership as another option, which will result in additional projects and innovations.”



With the policy change, utilities that have a tax appetite and an interest in owning solar generation projects now have an added incentive to diversify and clean their energy supply with the addition of solar power.



“This is a very positive development for the utility industry as it will go a long way to putting solar power within reach of many more Americans,” said Jim Rogers, chairman, president and CEO of Duke Energy, a SEPA member. “It is exactly what we need as we explore investing $100 million to install, operate, maintain and dispatch solar panels on our customers' rooftops in North Carolina as a viable option to build a bridge to a low-carbon future.”



“The extension of the tax credit also significantly increases the likelihood that recently announced solar projects will come to fruition,” says Hamm. For example, the largest planned photovoltaic projects in history – one for 550 MW and the other for 250 MW – announced as long term contracts with private solar companies in August by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, were both contingent upon the extension of the federal investment tax credit.



The full list of the solar investment tax credit provisions in H.R. 1424 include:

· Extension for 8 years of the 30-percent tax credit for both residential and commercial solar installations

· Elimination of the $2,000 monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, creating a true 30-percent tax credit (effective for property placed in service after December 31, 2008)

· Elimination of the prohibition on utilities from benefiting from the credit

· Allowance for Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) filers, both businesses and individuals, to take the credit

· Authorization of $800 million for clean energy bonds for renewable energy generating facilities, including solar

Contact: Josephine Mooney

(202) 857-0898 x6

jmooney@solarelectricpower.org

three things that are important to understand regarding investing in the current renewable energy industry

Read todays column on solar stocks -
Solar Stocks Continue Decline

By Peter Lynch
Exclusively for InvestorIdeas.com
October 03, 2008
full article - http://www.investorideas.com/pl/news/100308a.asp

Excerpt-


There are three things that are important to understand regarding investing in the current renewable energy industry:

Just the Beginning of the Renewables Boom — This is "just the beginning" of the birth of the renewable energy industry. The renewable energy industry is at the same stage now as the automobile industry was in 1900. We are seeing the first few companies becoming public and we will see hundreds more over the next decades. It will be an exciting time for investors and there will be ample opportunity for investors to make money and also help the environment, which is a welcome change from the fossil-fuel dominated energy sector of today.
Highly Volatility — At this early stage of development there will be excessive volatility in this sector until it becomes a more mature industry. Investors must carefully select their entry points and be patient. This sector is NOT for the faint of heart. Investors have to be careful only to invest a portion of their portfolio, which they have designated for "higher risk" investments. These will be the stocks that you can make the most money on, but also the ones you could lose the most on. Risk and reward have always been intrinsically linked and this is no exception.
Pending Legislation Key to Short-Term Uncertainly — I expect that we will see some pending solar legislation pass in the congress before year end, perhaps even today, since it has been attached to the bailout bill. If this happens the legislative tide will raise ALL SOLAR STOCKS and well as the entire market. Where it goes from there and how far the stocks rebound is any ones guess. One thing for sure, investors will have to be nimble and be prepared to take some short term profits.
If it does NOT happen this year, there will be a further drop in solar stocks, until 2009, when I am relatively sure some form of legislation will be forthcoming. Once this occurs I think it will light a fire under solar stocks and they will make a strong run up in the beginning of the year. However, next year there will be problems in the solar industry, for example: excess silicon supply, margin compression and PE contraction (which we are currently seeing to a large degree). But in the shorter term, I see solar stocks making another run up as just another step in their eventual movement to a booming industry of the future.

In conclusion, it is important to remember to be patient and not to overreact to this crazy market with its incredible volatility and short term “panic” psychology. I have seen this type of panic many times in the past and it is “usually” seen at or near market bottoms.

There will be plenty of opportunities in the future for the patient, level-headed investor. You need to have your cash reserves ready when the time is right. As I have said a number of times in the past, the best way to make money is not to lose it!

Remember, it is NOT how much money you make when the market goes up, but it is how much money you keep after the market has gone down.

About InvestorIdeas.com:

"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

Peter Lynch RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/PL.xml, Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed: http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml

Renewable Energy Industry Calls on Congressional Leadership

Renewable Energy Industry Calls on Congressional Leadership
Not to Leave for Election Until Tax Extender Legislation is Completed


IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 29, 2008 Contact:
Christine Real de Azua (202) 383-2508


As the CEOs of the nation’s leading renewable energy trade associations, we respectfully urge House and Senate leaders to remain in Washington until there is a successful resolution of the current impasse between the House and Senate on tax extenders legislation. Since the fate of any new House or Senate-passed extender bill is unclear at best, a hasty departure will put the future of renewable energy in America at risk.

Over the past year, renewable energy has been a major source of economic growth in a troubled economy. Now, as our industries face major challenges related to the financial crisis, prompt Congressional action to extend renewable energy tax credits is more important than ever. With hundreds of thousands of American jobs and billions of dollars in clean energy investment at risk, we urge Congressional Leaders not to leave for the election recess until a House-Senate agreement is reached on the pending tax extender package.


AWEA, formed in 1974, is the national trade association of the U.S. wind energy industry. The association's membership includes turbine manufacturers, wind project developers, utilities, academicians, and interested individuals. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA web site: www.awea.org.

Venture Capital Expert, John Cavalier of Hudson Clean Energy Partners, Offers His Take on Trends in Green Technology

Venture Capital Expert, John Cavalier of Hudson Clean Energy Partners, Offers His Take on Trends in Green Technology

Green Investor Audio Series - Sectors like wind and solar have had a spectacular growth rate

POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., September 24, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides interested investors a recent audio interview with Venture capital expert, John Cavalier of Hudson Clean Energy Partners.

Investorideas.com Green Investor Audio Series
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/

Podcast Summary: Venture Capital Expert Offers His Take on Trends in Green Technology

John Cavalier founded the renewable energy practice at Credit Suisse, and he's been a banker in the energy sector for more than 25 years. Now he's with Hudson Clean Energy Partners, a venture capital fund that invests in late stage renewable energy companies. In this interview, he offers his take on some key trends in the sector.

Mr. Cavalier reports, “What we focus on first and foremost is the management team .The sectors like wind and solar have had a spectacular growth rate. That growth rate can cause as many problems as it does provide opportunities. For example, wind has been growing at 35-50% a year- so now you have very significant turbine shortages. PV has grown at the same pace and you have real shortages in silicon. Silicon has gone from $25 a Kilogram three years ago, to $400 a kilogram.”

What it means is – that those management teams that were not planning and did not access their resources early on are going to be at a very severe cost disadvantage going forward. The growth rates in these companies are difficult to manage to. So the quality of the management is extremely important.

In solar you have some great CEO’s at the helm of SunPower Corporation (SPWR), Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) and First Solar, Inc. (FSLR).”

To hear the full Audio file: click here:
http://static.investorideas.com.s3.amazonaws.com/podcasts/2008/gi092308.mp3

Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Michael also writes the Insiders Corner Exclusively for Investorideas.com.

About Hudson Clean Energy Partners:
http://www.hudsoncep.com/
Hudson Clean Energy Partners is a private equity firm investing in renewable power, alternative fuels, energy efficiency and storage.
The Hudson investment team has more than 50 years of combined industry experience, led by Neil Auerbach, Managing Partner. Neil is a former Goldman Sachs partner who cofounded the US renewable energy investment effort at Goldman and led many of their most successful clean energy transactions.

About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml

The Global Green Marketplace at Investorideas.com – a meeting place for investors and business in cleantech: http://www.investorideas.com/marketplace/. Companies and accredited investors are invited to register.

Green Investor Sponsors:

Featured Showcase Solar Company XsunX (OTCBB: XSNX): Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
Featured Showcase Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG-FSE: EDV 5MV) Mantra, through its group of sustainable energy, carbon reduction and consumer product subsidiaries, is active in the green technology marketplace with an innovative, multi-faceted approach focused on profitability through sustainability. By aggressively seeking out new technologies and innovating solutions for a cleaner earth for everyone, Mantra intends to provide a highly profitable and environmentally responsible investment for its shareholders. More info can be found on the Investorideas.com at the company showcase http://www.investorideas.com/CO/MVTG/ or at the company website http://www.mantraenergy.com/
Featured Green Companies are showcased on: www.Renewableenergystocks.com. For disclaimer and disclosure visit: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.

Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

For Additional Information:

Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com

Source – Investorideas.com

American Wind Energy Association Statement on Senate Renewable Energy Tax Proposal

American Wind Energy Association Statement on Senate Renewable Energy Tax Proposal

As the Senate prepared to vote today on a bipartisan proposal to extend expiring tax credits for renewable energy production, Gregory Wetstone, Senior Director of Governmental & Public Affairs at the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), issued the following statement:

“On behalf of America’s wind energy industry and the millions of Americans who favor clean, domestic wind power, I applaud this critically important effort to move forward on renewable energy tax incentives before Congress leaves town at the end of the month. We are grateful to Senate leaders from both parties who put aside their differences to come together around this bipartisan package. Clean energy tax incentives are a vital part of the solution to our nation’s economic, energy security, and environmental challenges. With more than 100,000 jobs and billions of dollars in clean energy investment at risk, we urge all members of the Senate to vote yes on the Baucus-Grassley Amendment to H.R. 6049 and on final passage of this important legislation. We hope the Senate’s approval of this measure today will add to the momentum for swift action in the House of Representatives.”


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.

Senate Reaches Bipartisan Agreement to Extend, Improve Solar Tax Credits

Senate Reaches Bipartisan Agreement to Extend, Improve Solar Tax Credits

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2008


Senate Reaches Bipartisan Agreement to Extend, Improve Solar Tax Credits
Senate-passed bill would extend federal solar tax credits for 8 years, eliminate $2,000 cap on residential projects, and remove exemptions for utilities and AMT filers
Solar Energy Industries Association president Rhone Resch released the following statement after the Senate voted on bipartisan legislation to extend federal solar tax credits by 8 years. The amendment to H.R. 6049, the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008, to extend renewable energy tax credits passed by a vote of 93 to 2. SEIA expects the Senate will complete votes on other amendments and pass H.R. 6049 later today.

"The Senate took an important step today to put America back to work with clean, reliable and job-creating solar power. With major instability in our financial markets, solar energy is a guaranteed way to provide the stability we need in our economy right now.

"I applaud the Senate for reaching a bipartisan consensus to extend the solar tax credits, which are critical to the growth of the solar market in the U.S. I especially want to thank Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell, Senate Finance Chairman Baucus and ranking member Grassley, and Senators Cantwell and Ensign for their leadership in brokering this agreement.

"Extension of the solar investment tax credit has been more than two years in the making and is a major victory for the solar industry and for consumers facing higher energy prices in the U.S. Under the Senate bill, the solar tax credits will be extended for 8 years, for both commercial and residential consumers. The bill also makes several major improvements that puts solar energy within reach for all Americans. This includes a complete elimination of the $2,000 cap for residential systems and an allowance for utilities to make use of the commercial credit. Also, the bill allows those taxpayers that trigger AMT (alternative minimum tax) to take the solar tax credit.

"With a long term ITC in place, the solar industry will grow exponentially in the coming years. A study released by Navigant Consulting, Inc. just this week showed that more than 1.2 million employment opportunties, including 440,000 permanent jobs, and $232 billion in investment would be supported by 2016 with an 8-year extension of the ITC. And perhaps most important, the solar industry will create jobs in all 50 states. Today, the Senate brought these promising projections closer to reality.

"All eyes are now on the House that is in a position to swiftly pass the Senate legislation before members leave next week and get the bill to the President’s desk."

# # #

About SEIA:
Solar Energy Industries Association is the national trade association of 700 solar energy manufacturers, project developers, distributors, contractors, installers, architects, consultants and financiers. Established in 1974, SEIA works to expand the use of solar technologies in the global marketplace, strengthen research and development, remove market barriers, and improve education and outreach for solar. Learn more at www.seia.org.
Contacts
Monique Hanis, 202.682.0556 Ext. 4, mhanis@seia.org
Jared Blanton, 202.682.0556 Ext. 96, jblanton@seia.org
Mark Sokolove, 703.302.8382, mark@tigercomm.us

Background Materials
Today’s Senate bill extends the 30 percent solar investment tax credit for 8 years for both commercial and residential installations. The bill also makes several substantive changes to the credits, including complete elimination of the $2,000 cap for residential systems and allowing utilities to make use of the commercial tax credit. Also, the bill allows those taxpayers that trigger AMT (alternative minimum tax) to take the solar tax credit. The 30 percent solar investment tax credits first became effective in January, 2006, a result of the 2005 Energy Bill.