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Friday, March 27, 2009

Schaeffer's Sentiment Snapshot: Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (SOLF) Erases Earnings-Related Losses

Schaeffer's Sentiment Snapshot: Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (SOLF) Erases Earnings-Related Losses

CINCINNATI----Options speculators had increasingly high hopes ahead of Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd.'s (NASDAQ: SOLF) recent turn in the earnings spotlight. During the past couple of weeks, speculators on the International Securities Exchange (ISE) have bought to open more than 11 times as many calls than puts on the Chinese solar concern. Compared to similar readings taken during the past year, the security's skyscraping 10-day call/put volume ratio of 11.18 ranks in the 76th percentile. Simply put, options players on the ISE have scooped up SOLF calls at a faster pace only about a quarter of the time during the past 52 weeks.


Most of the optimistic options activity of late is seemingly centered on the equity's April 5 call, which has added about 1,300 positions during the past 10 trading sessions. What's more, despite Solarfun's disappointing earnings report (we'll get to that in just a minute), the position's popularity has continued today. In early afternoon trading, the April 5 call has already seen roughly 2,200 contracts change hands on open interest of fewer than 1,500.

To continue reading this article, click here: http://www.schaeffersresearch.com/commentary/content/sentiment+snapshot+solarfun+power+holdings+co+ltd+solf+erases+earnings-related+losses/observations.aspx?click=home&ID=92062&source=businesswire
Contacts Schaeffer's Investment ResearchAndrea Kramer, 513-589-3800akramer@sir-inc.com




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“Solar Stocks Explode”; Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch

“Solar Stocks Explode”; Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch

Point Roberts, South Salem, New York- - Investorideas.com March 27th issue of Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch.

Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/
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Exclusively for InvestorIdeas.com and Renewableenergystocks.com

Solar Stocks Explode
As I have said many times in the past, solar stocks are FAR MORE volatile than the average stock and that we can expect this above average volatility to continue because of the early stage of the industry and the general nature of the market we are in today. However, the past 4 trading days have been nothing less than spectacular for solar stocks. The 21 companies we track are up an AVERAGE of 42%, which to the best of my knowledge is an unprecedented move by any market sector in my experience. The average gain is close to 5 FOLD greater than the movement of the Dow, the S&P and the NASDAQ.

Read full article here -
http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/news/032709a.asp







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Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up on Solar Stocks; Solar Stocks Get A Boost from News on Chinese Subsidies

Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up on Solar Stocks; Solar Stocks Get A Boost from News on Chinese Subsidies

Investors Have a Little Fun in the Sun; Yingli Green Energy (NYSE: YGE) Up 44.82%


POINT ROBERTS, WA —March 27, 2009 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on solar stocks following news of China’s proposed subsidies for solar installations.

Several of the solar leaders had impressive gains, with Yingli Green Energy (NYSE: YGE) moving up 44.82% on the day.

Renewable Energy Stocks solar expert, J. Peter Lynch commented, “As I have said many times in the past, solar stocks are FAR MORE volatile than the average stock and that we can expect this above average volatility to continue because of the early stage of the industry and the general nature of the market we are in today. However, the past 4 trading days have been nothing less than spectacular for solar stocks. The 21 companies we track are up an AVERAGE of 42%, which to the best of my knowledge is an unprecedented move by any market sector in my experience. The average gain is close to 5 FOLD greater than the movement of the Dow, the S&P and the NASDAQ.”

Read the latest column of “Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives” with J. Peter Lynch at http://www.renewableenergystocks.com/PL/

Solar investors can also track the Ardour Solar Energy Index (^SOLRX) (Market, News), a compilation of global solar energy stocks in three primary solar energy sectors: Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal, and Solar Lighting for sector indications.

Solar Stocks Sector Close-Up as of Close of Trading March 26, 2009

Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) closed up$ 0.28 (31.46%).
Entech Solar (OTCBB: ENSL) traded up $0.05 (16.20%).
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) was up 0.29 (16.57%) on the day.
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed up $16.41 (12.25%).
JA Solar (Nasdaq: JASO) ran up $ 1.11 (41.73%).
LDK Solar ADR (NYSE: LDK) (Market, News) closed up $ 1.87 (31.75%).
SunPower Corporation (NasdaqGS: SPWRA) (Market, News ) closed up $ 2.64 (10.98%).
Trina Solar Limited (NYSE: TSL) gained $3.53 (40.76%).
Yingli Green Energy (NYSE: YGE) (Market, News) had a massive run, closing up $ 1.86 (44.82%).
XsunX: (OTCBB: XSNX) closed up 12.67% at $0.17.

For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp

Featured Showcase Solar Stock:

XsunX Inc. (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 as soon as possible. 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.

Submit green news and press releases: click here

Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and water stocks directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/

About InvestorIdeas.com:
Investorideas.com creates a meeting place for investing ideas to take form and come to life in an entrepreneurial environment, servicing the needs of small investors and start- up companies to large conglomerates! We cover multiple industry sectors but specialize in environmental and water.

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
Compensation disclosure for XSNX
http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp

For more information contact:

Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.comSource: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, Investorideas.com

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; Sector Sees Green at Close

Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; Sector Sees Green at Close


POINT ROBERTS, WA —March 25, 2009 - 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 trading as of March 25th, 2009. The market in general and several of the green leaders showed strength at the market close, with gains of up to 12% in Evergreen Solar Inc.

Sector Close-Up as of Trading Close March 25th, 2009:

Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) closed up $ 0.06 (7.23%).
Canadian Solar Inc. (NasdaqGM: CSIQ) had gains of $ 0.20 (4.32%).
China Technology Development (NASDAQ: CTDC) closed up $ 0.07 (3.27%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) was up $ 0.16 (2.74%).
Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (NasdaqNM: ENER) closed up $ 0.75 (5.43%).
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) closed up $ 0.19 (12.18%).
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) had gains of $ 5.18 (4.02%).
GWS TECHNOLOGIES INC (OTCBB: GWSC) closed down $ 0.04.
Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG) closed down $ 0.03.
Plutonic Power Corporation (TSX: PCC ) was up $ 0.08 (3.81%).
SunPower Corporation (NasdaqGS: SPWRA) closed up $ 0.09 (0.38%).
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (NYSE: STP) was up $ 0.14 (1.82%).
Westport Innovations Inc. (WPT.TO) closed up 0.18 (2.93%).
Yingli Green Energy (NYSE: YGE) closed up $ 0.07 (1.72%).
XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) closed down $ 0.01.


For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp

Featured Showcase Renewable Energy Stocks:

XsunX Inc. (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/

GWS TECHNOLOGIES INC (OTCBB: GWSC)
Showcase Page- More Info- http://www.investorideas.com/co/gwsc/

Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG)
Showcase Page – More info - http://www.investorideas.com/CO/MVTG/

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.

Submit green news and press releases: click here

Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and water stocks directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: 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. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX, MVTG, GWSC:
http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp

For more information contact:

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

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Aventine Common Shares to Move to Over-the-Counter Market




Aventine Common Shares to Move to Over-the-Counter Market

PEKIN, Ill., March 23, 2009 -- Aventine Renewable Energy Holdings, Inc (NYSE:AVR), a producer and marketer of fuel-grade ethanol, today announced that its common stock will be quoted on the Over-the-Counter (``OTC'') markets beginning Monday, March 30, 2009. The Company expects its stock to continue to be actively traded on the Pink Sheets and is taking the appropriate steps to be quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board (``OTCBB'') as well. The move from the New York Stock Exchange to OTC markets is due to the Company's current low market capitalization.
The Company's NYSE ticker symbol ``AVR'' will be discontinued and a new OTC ticker symbol will be issued. Information on the Pink Sheets can be accessed via Pink Sheets' website at http://www.pinksheets.com and on the OTCBB via the OTCBB's website at http://www.otcbb.com. Although the Company's common shares will be changing markets, the transition to the OTC market will have no effect on the shares themselves or the Company's filing obligations with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
About Aventine
Aventine is a producer and marketer of ethanol to many leading energy companies in the United States. In addition to ethanol, Aventine also produces distillers grains, corn gluten meal, corn gluten feed, corn germ and brewers' yeast. Our internet address is http://www.aventinerei.com.
Les Nelson, Director - Investor Relations (309) 347-9709



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Global Renewable Energy Stocks Directory Update – New Wind Stocks

Global Renewable Energy Stocks Directory Update – New Wind Stocks

Investorideas.com member stock directory updates

POINT ROBERTS, WA and DELTA, BC –March 24, 2009 – Investorideas.com and www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com, a leading global investor and industry portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, updates the current global directory of renewable energy stocks with new wind stock additions .

Investor Ideas has created a global directory of publicly traded green and renewable energy stocks in wind, solar, biofuel and other green sectors. Investor Ideas stock directories are one of several tools for independent investors to complete due diligence and research.

Renewableenergysstocks.com was one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy and the public companies in the sector.
Renewable Energy Stock Directory:
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp

The directory features stocks listed on the TSX, OTC, NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ASX, AIM markets and other leading exchanges reflecting the global participation and growth in renewable energy and green stocks.

The RenewableEnergyStocks.com portal currently features a directory with info and links on Alternative Energy Funds, Biogas and Ethanol Stocks, Energy Efficiency Stocks, Flywheel Stocks, Fuel Cell Stocks, Geothermal Stocks, Hydrogen Production, Micro Turbine Stocks, Solar Stocks, Green Transportation, Wind Stocks and Green Infrastructure Stocks.

Green Investor Content:

Green IPO Watch: http://www.investorideas.com/IPO/green.asp
Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch: 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


Investorideas.com Green Investor Audio and Article Series
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/
InvestorIdeas.com has created a Green Investor Series of Podcasts & articles on green and renewable energy investing for Investing in a Better World! Follow well- known financial columnist Michael Brush, who also writes the Insiders Corner for Investorideas.com, in a series of audio interviews/Podcasts with some of the leading CEO's, investment banking and financial leaders in the sector. The Green Investor Podcasts can also be heard on Money Matters with Barry Armstrong, #1 Personal Finance Radio Show in Boston! www.WBNW1120.com.
Also Read energy writer Paulo Nery's new Green Investor column and gain insight into the sector.

For entrepreneurs, investors and funds, The Global Green Marketplace is a meeting place and network for green and renewable energy companies seeking funding /partners, management and investors providing venture capital and equity funding . View Marketplace: http://www.investorideas.com/marketplace/


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, Blogs, and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Visit the Investorideas.com Green Investor Portals: www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com ®, www.FuelCellCarNews.com ®, www.EnvironmentStocks.com, www.Water-Stocks.com and www.GreentechInvestor.com all within the Investorideas.com hub.

About InvestorIdeas.com:
Investorideas.com creates a meeting place for investing ideas to take form and come to life in an entrepreneurial environment, servicing the needs of small investors and start- up companies to large conglomerates! We cover multiple industry sectors but specialize in environmental and water.

Investorideas.com Membership- Green Stocks Directory
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 including the complete renewable energy stocks directory, water stocks directory, biotech and more.
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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. Disclosure: Investorideas is compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp

For more information contact:

Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com Investorideas.com

Monday, March 23, 2009

Investor Ideas Announces Launch of ‘The Solar Innovation Series’, with Solar Expert J. Peter Lynch

Investor Ideas Announces Launch of ‘The Solar Innovation Series’, with Solar Expert J. Peter Lynch

Point Roberts, South Salem, New York- March 23, 2009- Investorideas.com announces the launch of a new series for the renewable energy sector in addition to the Renewable and Solar Energy Perspectives with J. Peter Lynch. The Innovation Series will cover emerging private companies with new technology and innovation in the solar industry.

The Innovation Series

I have been saying for years that the future of the solar industry is very bright and that we all have nothing to look forward too except a bright sunny future. Nothing that has occurred to date has changed my mind the least bit. As I have said numerous times, the solar industry is still in its infancy and as a result, has its best days ahead of it.

One thing that has always driven industries from their beginnings through their various stages of growth has been INNOVATION. This is what America is best known for and has always been a primary driver of progress in all industries. It is innovation that breaks away from the “old” and brings on the new technologies, new applications and new products that we will need in the future to confront and overcome our looming energy crisis.

In this periodic column I will highlight new companies, people and concepts with innovative technology and/or ideas that may turn out to be one of the key contributing factors that will enable the next breakthrough in the solar industry and help to light our way to a sustainable energy future.

Mr. Lynch has worked, for 32 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. Please visit his website for the promotion of solar energy – www.sunseries.net

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Friday, March 20, 2009

First Solar Produces 1 Gigawatt of Clean Solar Electricity

First Solar Produces 1 Gigawatt of Clean Solar Electricity


TEMPE, Ariz.--March 20 2009 --First Solar, Inc., (Nasdaq:FSLR) today announced that it has produced 1 gigawatt (GW) of its advanced solar modules since beginning commercial production in early 2002.

It took the Company more than six years to produce its first 500 megawatts (MW) and eight months to produce its second, creating today’s 1GW total. By the end of this year, the Company has announced it will have the capacity to produce more than 1GW per year— the equivalent of an average-sized nuclear power plant.

“This volume allows us to rapidly reduce manufacturing costs, thereby furthering our mission of making solar power an affordable alternative to conventional energy sources,” said Bruce Sohn, First Solar president. “We appreciate the many contributions our associates have made in reaching this 1GW milestone and are grateful for all their hard work.”

First Solar began production in Perrysburg, Ohio, with a single manufacturing line and approximately 150 associates in 2002. By the end of 2009, the Company’s solar modules will come from 23 manufacturing lines on three continents and employing more than 4,000 associates. The Company currently has manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Germany and Malaysia and offices located throughout North America and Europe.

About First Solar

First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq:FSLR) manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology and provides comprehensive PV solutions that significantly reduce solar electricity costs. By enabling clean, renewable electricity at competitive prices, First Solar provides an economic and environmentally responsible alternative to existing peaking fossil-fuel electric generation. First Solar PV power plants operate with no water, air emissions or waste stream. First Solar set the benchmark for environmentally responsible product life cycle management by introducing the industry's first comprehensive collection and recycling program for solar modules. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating cost-effective renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com, or www.firstsolar.com/media to download photos.

For First Solar Investors

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



Contacts First Solar, Inc.United States:Lisa Morse602-414-9361media@firstsolar.comorEurope:Brandon Mitchener+32-2-550-3750+49-6131-1443-399media@firstsolar.com





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CENTROSOLAR Group AG: Record results 2008

CENTROSOLAR Group AG: Record results 2008:
Revenue up 51 % and EBIT more than doubled – moderate outlook for 2009 due to non-recurring effects

EBITDA EUR 21.4 million (2007: EUR 15 million)
EBIT EUR 12.0 million (2007: EUR 4.8 million)

Munich, March 20, 2009 – CENTROSOLAR Group AG is able to announce record levels of revenue and earnings for the 2008 financial year. Consolidated revenue showed above-target growth of 51 % in 2008, to a new company record of EUR 332.6 million (2007: EUR 220.3 million). EBITDA grew by 43 % to EUR 21.4 million. There was a 152 % rise in EBIT to EUR 12 million (2007: EUR 4.8 million). Earnings per share went up from EUR 0.10 to EUR 0.31.


Thanks to its strong position in the market for the more highly subsidised roof systems, CENTROSOLAR expects sales volume to continue rising in 2009, though the current trend in wafer, cell and module prices is likely to keep the overall revenue volume down to the level of the previous year. The optimization program now under way, the ramp-up of production at Itarion and above all the reduction in inventories in the first quarter will place a burden of non-recurring expenses on the cost side. The operating result, while still remaining positive, is therefore forecast to show a short-term dip compared with the previous year. Due to the financial and economic crisis the forecast for 2009 regarding earnings and financial position is exposed to an exceptionally high level of uncertainty.

The groundwork being performed in 2009 will help to hoist the profit margin from operations permanently above current levels from 2010 on, thanks to the leaner structures created and more attractive purchasing terms for solar cells.

Detailed information on 2008 and outlook for 2009According to the full-year results announced today, CENTROSOLAR Group AG succeeded in increasing its annual revenue beyond the target level, from EUR 220.3 million for the previous year to a new record figure of EUR 332.6 million (+51 %). The export ratio was increased from 33% to 54%.

Because CENTROSOLAR Group AG has decided against entering into long-term purchase agreements for cells, it was not quite able to maintain its gross margin on revenue at the previous level in view of the difficult conditions in the procurement market, and this ratio fell from 21.0% to 19.3 %. Improved efficiency in the areas of distribution costs and overheads compensated for this downturn almost in full, with the result that the EBITDA operating margin remains between 6 and 7%. The higher year-on-year operating depreciation and amortisation of EUR 3.2 million (2007: EUR 1.7 million) was counterbalanced by the fall in IFRS 3 depreciation from EUR 8.6 million to EUR 6.2 million, with the result that EBIT more than doubled to EUR 12 million in 2008, compared with EUR 4.8 million in the previous year. EPS accordingly rose from EUR 0.10 to EUR 0.31 last year, despite the dilutive effect of the capital increase.

Solar Integrated Systems segment
The Solar Integrated Systems business segment, which concentrates mainly on roofs of residential and industrial properties, posted revenue of EUR 241 million, representing a rise of +44% compared with the previous year. The main driving force behind this growth was the expansion in the group's operations in Spain, France and Italy. The proportion of export revenue virtually doubled from 25% to 49%. The high cell purchasing prices experienced under the short-term procurement strategy in the first half and the write-down of inventories at the end of the second half of the year nevertheless eroded the gross margin, with the result that the segment's operating profitability fell short of expectations despite improved efficiency in personnel and other expenses, and EBITDA slipped to EUR 8.2 million (previous year EUR 9.5 million). An optimization program to enhance sales and reduce costs of distribution and overheads has therefore now been implemented.


Solar Key Components segment
External revenue for the Solar Key Components segment was boosted by 74 %, from EUR 52.4 million in the previous year to EUR 91.4 million. This rate of increase, which is way above the industry average, was made possible by the increase in manufacturing capacity for solar glass since 2007, in conjunction with the successful marketing of special solutions for roof mounting systems. EBITDA for this segment even rose by 140 %, from EUR 5.6 million in the previous year to EUR 13.3 million in 2008.

Outlook
More restricted access to financing and the lower payment tariffs for ground-mounted systems will hold back the growth of the photovoltaic market in 2009. CENTROSOLAR itself actually expects to maintain volume growth at a high level in 2009 thanks to its focus on roof systems, which attract higher subsidies internationally, and the easing of the situation on procurement markets. The current decline in wafer, cell and module prices will, however, reduce the impact of this volume growth on revenue. Overall, CENTROSOLAR therefore expects to post a similarly high level of revenue for 2009 as in the record-breaking year of 2008. 2009 will, however, bring non-recurring costs for the Solar Integrated Systems segment. The optimization program now under way, the production ramp-up of the new Itarion solar cell plant and the reduction in inventories in the first quarter of 2009, possibly combined with further write-downs if prices continue to fall, will nevertheless put a strain on the operating result in the short term. On the other hand leaner structures and more attractive purchasing terms for solar cells will pave the way for a rise in the profit margin from operations permanently above current levels from 2010 on. The continuation of the joint venture with Qimonda Solar GmbH should likewise be clarified shortly, removing the uncertainty that may be depressing the share price.


For further information, please contact:Georg Biekehör, MetaCom Corporate Communications GmbHTel.: +49 06181 9828030






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Wednesday, March 18, 2009

IBERDROLA RENOVABLES assumes control of 100% of Rokas Group- The Greek stock market authorities approve the company’s delisting

IBERDROLA RENOVABLES assumes control of 100% of Rokas Group- The Greek stock market authorities approve the company’s delisting

- The squeeze-out following the voluntary takeover bid has been successfully completed

- IBERDROLA RENOVABLES consolidates its leadership of the Greek market with an installed capacity of 217 MW

IBERDROLA RENOVABLES now owns 100% of Rokas Group, having completed the squeeze-out process. Furthermore, the General Shareholders’ Meeting of Rokas, the largest operator in Greece’s wind energy market, has approved the delisting from the Athens Stock Exchange of the ordinary and preference shares representing the company’s entire share capital. The transaction has in turn been authorised by the CMC, the Greek stock exchange regulator.

This marks the culmination of the acquisition of the 52.7% of ordinary shares and 47.3% of preference shares of Rokas Group that IBERDROLARENOVABLES did not control, valued at around €175 million in cash. The transaction underlines the commitment of the renewables arm of the IBERDROLA Group to the Greek market, where it has been present since December 2004 when it acquired 21% of the ordinary share capital of Rokas. Since then the Company has continued to increase its stake in the leading operator in the Greek wind power market, completing the acquisition of 100% following the voluntary takeover bid made last year.

This transaction is in line with IBERDROLA RENOVABLES ’ strategy of bolstering its role in its core countries and accessing new markets. Moreover, it will serve to diversify the Company’s geographic presence and regulatory risk.

The transaction also consolidates its leadership of the Greek wind power market. Rokas Group, which specialises in the development, construction and operation of wind energy projects, ended 2008 with an installed capacity of 217 MW.



Leader in the world’s most important wind energy markets

IBERDROLA RENOVABLES consolidated its global leadership in the wind energy sector* in 2008 after investing a total of €3.8 billion to increase its installed capacity by 2,204 MW to 9,302 MW.

The company has the biggest project pipeline in the sector, standing at 55,117 MW** at the end of 2008. Of this, 41% of projects are in the US, 24.6% in Spain, 9.6% in the UK and 24.7% in the rest of the world.



* Source: New Energy Finance

** Includes a 10 GW contribution of 10.000 MW from Gamesa to joint venture companies following the strategic agreement between IBERDROLA RENOVABLES and Gamesa Energía



LEGAL NOTICE

DISCLAIMER

This document has been prepared by Iberdrola Renovables, S.A., (the “Company”) in relation with the announcement of the capacity and production results of the complete 2008 fiscal year.

The information and any statements made in this document have not been verified by independent third parties; therefore no express or implied warranty is made as to the impartiality, accuracy, completeness or correctness of the information or the opinions expressed herein.

Neither the Company nor any of its advisors or representatives assume liability of any kind, whether for negligence or any other reason, for any damage or loss arising from any use of this document or its contents.

Neither this document nor any part of it constitutes a contract, nor may it be used for incorporation into or construction of any contract or agreement.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This document does not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe shares, in accordance with the provisions of the Spanish Securities Market Law (Law 24/1988, as amended and restated from time to time), Royal Decree Law 5/2005 and/or Royal Decree 1310/2005 and its implementing regulations.

This report does not constitute an offer to purchase, sell or exchange or the solicitation of an offer to purchase, sell or exchange any securities. The securities referred to herein may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the US Securities Act.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This communication contains forward-looking information and statements about Iberdrola Renovables , S.A. and otherwise, including financial projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives and expectations with respect to future operations, capital expenditures, synergies, products and services, and statements regarding future performance. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally identified by the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar expressions. Prior results cannot be used as indicators of future performance.

Although Iberdrola Renovables, S.A. believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors and holders of Iberdrola Renovables , S.A. shares are cautioned that forward-looking information and statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of IberdrolaRenovables, S.A., that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, those discussed or identified in the public documents sent by Iberdrola Renovables , S.A. to the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and they have not been reviewed by the auditors of Iberdrola Renovables, S.A. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. All subsequent oral or written forward-looking statements attributable to Iberdrola Renovables, S.A. or any of its members, directors, officers, employees or any persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statement above. All forward-looking statements included herein are based on information available to Iberdrola Renovables, S.A. on the date hereof. Except as required by applicable law, Iberdrola Renovables, S.A. does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.





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Friday, March 13, 2009

IBM and Dassault Systèmes Help European Automaker Create Digital Design Infrastructure to Speed Up Delivery of Fuel Efficient


VELIZY, FRANCE and MUNICH, GERMANY and ARMONK, NYMar 12, 2009 -- IBM (NYSE:IBM ) and Dassault Systèmes (DS) (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA) today announced BMW's use of a single digital software environment for the design of all BMW engines across its fuel and diesel-powered cars, motorcycles, and its newest line of eco-friendly, hybrid cars including the industry's first hydrogen-powered vehicle.


Using IBM and Dassault Systemes 3D digital design software, product manufacturers can speed up the product design process with partners and suppliers globally by sharing information across a digital infrastructure platform to ensure product quality and performance.

· http://www.ibm.com/solutions/plm · http://www.ibm.com/press With the use of CATIA software, a 3D virtual design platform, engineers can consolidate design environments and create a single reference model for the design of all future BMW engines. IBM and Dassault Systèmes PLM experts have helped the automaker to harmonize and consolidate all design initiatives into a digital infrastructure that provides the latest technologies to aid in the software simulation, calculation and testing of new engine models.

As industrial sector companies intensify efforts to deliver more value to customers, they are using smart technology to help launch a new class of products. For example, working with IBM and Dassault Systèmes, BMW has developed a series of software design initiatives aimed at equipping new cars with fuel-saving technologies. From designing smaller engines to increasing piston and cylinder performance for better ignition and fuel performance, product lifecycle management software continues to play a key role in the intelligent design of new products.
In the past, aerodynamicists, physicists, and product engineers relied on CAD geometry and manual changes to create new design models. With CATIA, product designers can use multiple engineering applications to significantly enhance a manufacturer's ability to share master versions of an engine design before signing off on production and manufacturing plans.

"BMW is in a leadership position to speed up change in the auto industry. With a digital design infrastructure, a company can quickly respond to consumer changes and production demand by having immediate access to global design plans and making those updates digitally so they are instantly shared across global manufacturing sites and with partners in the supply chain," said Steve Mills, senior vice president and group executive, IBM Software.

Using CATIA software, BMW has shipped 22 new cars with engines that produce less than 140 grams of carbon dioxide (CO2) per kilometer, an achievement that meets the goals set by Kyoto Protocol participants in 1992 as part of an international treaty on climate change to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally.

"We are convinced that the extended deployment of our 3D PLM software across all BMW divisions will deliver quick results for BMW and its customers," said Bruno Latchague, executive vice president, Dassault Systèmes. "BMW can now streamline all its design and product development activities on a single platform that is easy to share with its suppliers. This reflects an important move in times where return on investment is more critical than ever."
For more information about IBM, please visit www.ibm.com and www.ibm.com/solutions/plm.
For Dassault Systèmes, please visit http://www.3ds.com.


About Dassault Systèmes
As a world leader in 3D and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, Dassault Systèmes brings value to more than 100,000 customers in 80 countries. A pioneer in the 3D software market since 1981, Dassault Systèmes develops and markets PLM application software and services that support industrial processes and provide a 3D vision of the entire lifecycle of products from conception to maintenance to recycling. The Dassault Systèmes portfolio consists of CATIA for designing the virtual product -- SolidWorks for 3D mechanical design -- DELMIA for virtual production -- SIMULIA for virtual testing -- ENOVIA for global collaborative lifecycle management, and 3DVIA for online 3D lifelike experiences. Dassault Systèmes' shares are listed on Euronext Paris (#13065, DSY.PA) and Dassault Systèmes' ADRs may be traded on the US Over-The-Counter (OTC) market (DASTY). For more information, visit http://www.3ds.com.
CATIA, DELMIA, ENOVIA, SIMULIA, SolidWorks and 3D VIA are registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries in the US and/or other countries

Contact: Contacts: Elena Fernandez IBM Software Group 617-693-1606 elena_fernandez@us.ibm.com Stephanie Schroeder Dassault Systèmes +33 (0)1 55 49 87 73 Stephanie.schroeder@ 3ds.com Source: IBM



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Thursday, March 12, 2009

Green Investor at Investorideas.com; How Will Solar PV Businesses Benefit From The New Incentives?

Green Investor at Investorideas.com; How Will Solar PV Businesses Benefit From The New Incentives?

Potential Impact on Solar Stocks First Solar (FSLR), Sunpower (SPWRA), Evergreen Solar (ESLR), Spire (SPIR), SunTech (STP) and XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX)


March 12, 2009, Point Roberts, WA -Green Investor at Investorideas.com reports on how Solar PV businesses may benefit from the new incentives.

Green Investor at Investorideas.com
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/ Paulo J. Nery

Solar stocks have taken a major beating in the past few months. The Claymore MAC Global Solar Energy Index ETF (TAN) has fallen 78% in the past six months. Most listed solar companies have fallen from 50% to 87% over that period. Since all renewable energy stocks are intrinsically tied to oil prices I am tempted to lay the blame on the oil markets which have fallen hard. The US Oil Index (USO) is down a mere 67% in the same period, though, only a few weeks ago it hit a low of 22.80, and that was 72% down from the same baseline. So perhaps they’re in the same ballpark.

Price declines for solar stocks over the past 6 months:
· First Solar (FSLR) down 51%
· Sunpower (SPWRA) down 73%
· Evergreen Solar (ESLR) down 86%
· Spire (SPIR) down 53%
· SunTech (STP) down 87%

At the same time, prices of solar modules have fallen which could hurt some manufacturer margins. One of the causes of this fall was Spain’s reduction of its solar subsidies. But this could be good news for buyers of solar modules who can now start picking up some bargains, possibly lifting demand again. As the market adage goes, “there’s no cure for low prices like low prices.”

A bright spark however, is the newly passed economic stimulus bill which should start boosting demand once again. With the extension of the Federal 30% tax credit and the removal of the $2000 cap, home owners will see the price of solar PV get much more affordable. For instance, last year a homeowner buying a 3 kilowatt system costing $28,500 might have paid $19,000 after the tax incentives, but this year it will cost about $13,000 based on California’s incentives and the newly uncapped Federal tax credit. Of course the incentive requires you to have a tax liability to offset, and rising unemployment may well diminish the residential market.

And, for commercial developers of solar facilities the new bill has provisions that would allow them to take the 30% tax credit as a grant instead.

The President’s “New Energy For America” plan calls for 10% of US electricity to come from renewable sources by 2012, then 25 per cent by 2025. That’s a doubling in just three years. The President has pledged to spend $15 billion per year over the next 10 years to stimulate private clean energy investments in solar power, wind power, biofuels and more efficient vehicles.

The new plans also call for:
* $30 billion for improving energy efficiency, which includes smart grid and battery technology
* $29 billion for modernizing roads and bridges
* $18 billion for clean water, flood control, and environmental restoration investments
* $8.4 billion for investments in transit, and $8 billion for investment in high-speed rail
* $7 billion for extending broadband services to underserved communities across the country

Another factor slowing down solar project development is tight credit. The economic downturn has certainly put pressure on clean energy funding, like everything else. But according to a recent survey conducted by New Energy Finance, out of the 106 institutional investors that took part in the study, about 50 percent plan to increase their exposure to the clean energy sector. These institutional investors like pension, banking and insurance funds hold $1 trillion in managed assets. One leading Swiss private bank, Bank Sarasin, told Reuters last week that they saw renewed opportunity in the US. Matthias Fawer, vice president of sustainable investment at the bank said, "Now with the stimulus package and the slowdown in Europe, especially in the Spanish solar market, we are moving to U.S. stocks." Yet another investor, Mitsubishi Corp. said on March 5th, that it plans to invest more in renewable energy, particularly solar power projects. It will invest in solar panels, solar parks and stocks.

So could this represent a bottom for the sector? And if so how should one pick the right companies to invest in?

First, the company's liquidity position and balance sheet need to be strong enough to carry it through this downturn. Look at sales growth and cash less any short-term debt for a measure of how much a company has to operate for the coming year. Today any companies that show growth can be considered strong. Also look for market leaders and companies with unique value propositions to set them apart.

Some of the companies best positioned to ride out the challenges of this year are the big market leading companies with adequate cash in hand. US manufacturer First Solar (FSLR) is one of these companies. Notice how their stock price collapse is far less than any of the other solar companies. First Solar also benefits because its panels are made from cheaper cadmium telluride rather than silicon. Also look at the other second generation solar companies I mentioned in my article of Jan 6, 2009. But even First Solar said last week that it would begin reducing prices on some of its panels to keep its competitive edge when it enters new markets.

Other well positioned companies include SunPower Corp, (SPWRA) because its highly-efficient modules command a price premium. Now that SunPower also installs the systems they have the maneuverability to adjust their margins between the different parts of the business.

Also look at Energy Conversion Devices (ENER), makers of Uni-Solar amorphous silicone panels. They were the innovators of lightweight flexible roll out modules that can be directly adhered to roof tops, also known as building integrated PV.

Suntech (STP) too has bought into the installation and finance business since its acquisition last October of El Solutions, and its joint venture with MMA Renewable Ventures called Gemini Solar Development. Gemini plans to finance, develop and operate solar power plants of 10 megawatts or more.

XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX) is another thin film innovator using amorphous silicon who, while at an earlier stage, shows promise. The company’s dual layer amorphous thin film design is cheaper to make and out performs other technologies in most climates. In a recent comparative study the company’s module design was shown to deliver the lowest levelized cost of all solar photovoltaic cell technologies. They have so far gained sales contracts for 19 MW deliverable through 2010. And they recently announced a prudent decision to reduce the capacity of their planned manufacturing facility in Oregon to approximately 13 MW which closely matches their commitments and saves the company roughly 25 million.

Despite the general weakness of the solar power sector, many analysts are saying there is great growth potential - just not very soon given the overcapacity, weak economy and difficulty in gaining funding. However, I’m looking for the escalating grass roots demand to lower greenhouse gas emissions and shift away from foreign fossil fuels to drive solar stocks along with other clean tech stocks higher once more. And the bounce could be very strong when it comes.

Paulo J. Nery

Disclosure: Paulo Nery does not currently own shares of any of the companies named above.
Disclaimer: Nothing in the above article in no way constitutes a recommendation to buy or invest in these or any other stocks. You should always seek professional financial advice when planning your investments or trading in the stock markets.

Featured Showcase Solar Stock:

XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) 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/

Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/

About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://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, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.

Disclaimer: Paulo Nery is an independent columnist for Green Investor at Investorideas.com .Paulo J. Nery writes about green business, green investing and green lifestyle. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp. InvestorIdeas is not affiliated or compensated by the companies mentioned in this article.

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 XSNX is a featured company.
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Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Total to Invest 1 Billion Euros in France to Adapt and Consolidate Its Refining and Petrochemicals Operations and Pursue Growth in Solar Energy

Total Plans to Invest More Than 1 Billion Euros in France to Adapt and Consolidate Its Refining and Petrochemicals Operations and Pursue Its Growth in Solar Energy


PARIS--March 10 2009 --In a challenging economic environment, Total (Paris:FP) (LSE:TTA) (NYSE:TOT) is continuing to work to secure the future. As part of its efforts to do so, upgrading of its industrial base remains a priority. The Group has therefore planned to invest more than 1 B€ in refining, petrochemicals and solar energy in France.

The planned investments will create an average of over 1,000 jobs a year between 2009 and 2011, which will have a significant impact on economic activity and employment of the regions concerned.

Total is also pursuing its growth in solar energy and, in partnership with GDF Suez, it plans to build a plant in the Carling region in eastern France to manufacture silicon wafers for the photovoltaic industry. The initial investment for the plant, which will employ approximately 100 people, is estimated at 70 M€.

The Refining & Marketing division and Total Petrochemicals France plans were submitted to the Central Works Councils concerned today.

No layoffs are planned. Over a period of more than three years ending in mid-2013, the workforce will be gradually rescaled, by 555 positions, through internal placement, retirements, a dedicated early retirement plan, and the introduction of a furlough system.

Total (Paris:FP) (LSE:TTA) (NYSE:TOT) is a leading global oil and gas company with operations in more than 130 countries. Its 96,000 employees put their expertise to work across the industry, from exploration and production of oil and natural gas to refining and marketing to gas, power and trading. It is also a world-class chemical producer. Total is working to keep the world supplied with energy, both today and tomorrow. www.total.com

Adapting Total’s Refining Base in France

Total Refining & Marketing division today announced an industrial plan at a special meeting of the Central Works Council to adapt its refining base in France, primarily by reconfiguring the Normandy refinery and rescaling certain corporate departments at its Paris headquarters.

The Normandy refinery project will shift the production emphasis to diesel, as oil consumption diminishes and gasoline surpluses increase in France. Some 770 M€ will be spent to upgrade and reconfigure the facility, reducing its refining capacity to 12 million metric tons a year from 16 million tons. At the same time, the distillate hydrocracker (DHC) commissioned in 2006, which enables diesel production, will be upsized.

These investments will lift the annual average diesel output by 10% and reduce surplus gasoline output by 60%. A significant number of jobs will be created for the contractors who perform the necessary work. The reconfiguration will also reduce carbon emissions from the refinery by approximately 25%, or 1 million tons a year.

Total is not planning any layoffs and is committed to finding appropriate solutions for the employees concerned by the 249 jobs that will be lost by 2013, with an emphasis on internal placement.

Implementation of this project, which is concurrent with but not linked to the Total Petrochemicals France plan, is subject to prior consultation with employee representatives from the Unit of Economic and Employee Interest of the Downstream segment.

Upgrading and Consolidation at Total Petrochemicals France

At a special meeting of the Central Works Council today, Total Petrochemicals France presented a plan to upgrade its most efficient units and consolidate the company to safeguard its competitiveness, in response to the structural deterioration of its markets, which are burdened with lasting overcapacity.

As part of the project, approximately 230 M€ will be invested to bring to the most efficient level the energy efficiency and competitive strength of the steamcracker and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) unit in Gonfreville and to consolidate polystyrene production at the Carling facility.

It will also lead to the closure of structurally loss-making units — a low-density polyethylene line in Carling in eastern France and a low-density polyethylene line and a polystyrene line in Gonfreville in northwestern France. The plan will streamline production facility organization, concentrate customer technical support ─ currently provided in part from Mont in southwestern France ─ at the Feluy complex in Belgium, and rescale Paris headquarters operations to the company’s new scope. The Lacq Research Center in southwestern France will be expanded to focus on state-of-the-art activities for all of Total’s businesses.

Furthermore, following the sole customer’s termination of the supply contract for secondary butyl alcohol produced at the Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon facility in northwestern France, Total Petrochemicals France will have to close this dedicated facility.

Total is not planning any layoffs and is committed to finding appropriate solutions for the employees concerned by the 306 jobs that will be lost through 2012, with an emphasis on internal placement.

Implementation of this project, which is concurrent with but not linked to the Total Refining & Marketing plan, is subject to prior consultation with employee representatives from Total Petrochemicals France.

TOTAL2, place Jean MillierLa Défense 692 400 Courbevoie FranceFax: + 33 (0) 1 47 44 68 21


TOTAL S.A.Capital 5 929 520 185 euros542 051 180 R.C.S. Nanterre

www.total.com





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Friday, March 06, 2009

Ormat Technologies Announces Closing of $105 Million Long-Term Senior Debt Financing for the Olkaria III Geothermal Power Project in Kenya

Ormat Technologies Announces Closing of $105 Million Long-Term Senior Debt Financing for the Olkaria III Geothermal Power Project in Kenya

RENO, Nev., March 6, 2009 -- Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: ORA) announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, OrPower 4, Inc., concluded the closing under its previously announced loan documents for up to $105 million project financing to refinance Ormat's investment in the Olkaria III geothermal project. The 48 MW power plant is located in Naivasha, Kenya.


The first disbursement of approximately $90 million under the 10-year project finance loan is expected to occur within the next two weeks.

Commercial operation of the Phase II expansion began at the beginning of January and added 35 MW, bringing the project to its target capacity of 48 MW. The project currently accounts for 6% of Kenya's total energy production. The electricity generated is sold to Kenya Power & Light Company (KPLC) under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement.
The closing announcement was made during the inauguration ceremony that took place yesterday at the project and was attended by: the Vice President of Kenya, the Minister of Energy, the Permanent Secretary of Energy, Chairman of the ERC, Members of Parliament, other Governmental officials, Representatives of KPLC, local community representatives and of the lender group of European Development Finance Institutions (EDFIs) arranged by Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH ("DEG").


Vice President H.E. Kolonzo Musyoka said during the ceremony: "The US $150 million injected into the project by Ormat is the largest single private sector investment in the power sector and is consistent with government policy to open the power sector to private participation." The Vice President concluded: "I am also pleased to note that the green technology used in the Olkaria power plant, will help reduce the cost of electricity and help save the country 120,000 tons of imported oil."


The Minister of Energy Mr. Kiriatu Murungi said: "At a price of US $29 per barrel of petroleum crude oil, this 48 MW geothermal plant is cheaper to operate than a heavy fuel oil fired plant. This means that at the current oil prices still above US $40 per barrel, OrPower 4 is providing cheaper electricity to the national grid than any existing oil fired plants in Kenya."
"Having reached the closing of this project finance is a very important and happy day for us," said Dita Bronicki, Ormat's CEO.

"I want to thank the Government, the Ministry, the authorities, our customer KPLC, as well as the DEG as lead Consortium and the lenders and last, but not least, the Olkaria III manager Ernest Mabwa, his team and all the Ormat employees," concluded Dita Bronicki.
About Ormat Technologies
Ormat Technologies, Inc. is the only vertically-integrated company primarily engaged in the geothermal and recovered energy power business. The Company designs, develops, owns and operates geothermal and recovered energy-based power plants around the world. Additionally, the Company designs, manufactures and sells geothermal and recovered energy power units and other power-generating equipment, and provides related services. The Company has more than four decades of experience in the development of environmentally-sound power, primarily in geothermal and recovered-energy generation. Ormat products and systems are covered by more than 75 U.S. patents. Ormat has built over 1000 MW of plants, half for its own account and half as supplies to utilities and developers. Ormat's current generating portfolio includes the following geothermal and recovered energy-based power plants: in the United States - Brady, Heber, Mammoth, Ormesa, Puna, Steamboat and OREG 1; in Guatemala - Zunil and Amatitlan; in Kenya - Olkaria; in Nicaragua - Momotombo and in New Zealand - GDL.

Safe Harbor Statement
Information provided in this press release may contain statements relating to current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about future events that are "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally relate to Ormat's plans, objectives and expectations for future operations and are based upon its management's current estimates and projections of future results or trends. Actual future results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, see "Risk Factors" as described in Ormat Technologies, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2009.

These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Ormat Technologies Contact: Investor Relations Contact: Dita Bronicki Todd Fromer / Marybeth Csaby CEO KCSA Strategic Communications 775-356-9029 212-896-1215 / 212-896-1236 dbronicki@ormat.com tfromer@kcsa.com / mcsaby@kcsa.com
SOURCE Ormat Technologies, Inc.
http://www.ormat.com





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Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Carmanah Introduces Solar LED Lighting for Streets and Parking Lots

Carmanah Introduces Solar LED Lighting for Streets and Parking Lots

VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA (March 04, 2009) - Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX:CMH) today announced its most powerful solar-powered LED area light to date: the EverGEN™ 1500 lighting system. Designed for street and parking lot lighting applications, the EverGEN 1500 combines the performance of an AC-powered area light with the versatility of an off-grid solar-powered lighting system. Providing up to 6,800 lumens of delivered light output, the EverGEN 1500 offers unparalleled performance for a solar-powered LED light of its size.

Using a standard pole-mounted design, the EverGEN 1500 can support up to two LED lighting fixtures to provide a reliable source of bright, uniform light wherever it's needed, without trenching, cabling or grid access. Featuring the industry-leading LEDway™ and THE EDGE™ LED lighting fixtures by BetaLED™, the new EverGEN 1500 provides superior light output and performance, in compliance with IESNA (Illuminating Engineering Society of North America) standards. By directing light only where needed, the EverGEN 1500 provides efficient "dark-sky" friendly illumination for streets, parking lots and more.


For more information on the EverGEN 1500 lighting system, visit www.carmanah.com, or telephone 1.877.722.8877 (toll free in US and Canada).


About Carmanah Technologies CorporationAs one of the most trusted names in solar technology, Carmanah has earned a reputation for delivering strong and effective products for industrial applications worldwide. Industry proven to perform reliably in some of the world's harshest environments, Carmanah solar LED lights and solar power systems provide a durable, dependable and cost effective energy alternative. Carmanah is a publicly traded company, with common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMH". For more information, visit carmanah.com.

Investor RelationsRoland Sartorius, Chief Financial OfficerToll-Free: 1.877.722.8877 investors@carmanah.com Media Relations David DaviesTel: +1.250.382.4332
ddavies@carmanah.com




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eBay Champions Smart Ways to Shop Green

eBay Champions Smart Ways to Shop Green
New eBay Green Team Initiative Promotes More Sustainable Consumer Choices and Shopping Habits That Can Help Save Money—and the Planet

SAN JOSE, Calif.-- March 4 2009 eBay (Nasdaq:EBAY), the world’s leading online marketplace, today announced the launch of the eBay Green Team, a new initiative that champions smart ways to shop green and encourages more sustainable buying choices that can save consumers money and help save the planet. Building on a grassroots effort started by its own employees, eBay is inviting buyers, sellers and anyone interested in new ways of thinking about being a greener consumer to join at eBay.com/greenteam.

“eBay’s global community of more than 86 million active buyers and sellers supports more sustainable commerce every day,” said eBay Inc. President and CEO John Donahoe. “The greenest products are often ones that already exist, and eBay creates a global market for used, refurbished, vintage and even new products from excess retail inventory. eBay buyers and sellers trade $2,000 worth of goods every second, a majority of which are used, refurbished or vintage. The eBay Green Team effort, which was inspired by our own community and employees’ accomplishments, will continue to encourage these behaviors and promote new ways of thinking about shopping green.”

Buying green products designed with sustainable materials or that help reduce energy and resource use is only one way to shop green. Many eBay sellers offer eco-friendly merchandise such as organic cotton clothing and solar-powered mobile chargers, and ship with Cradle-to-Cradle™ certified packaging available through USPS on eBay.com. But buying new is not the only way to buy green. Buying more products that already exist also has a positive impact on the environment by keeping materials out of landfills, preventing new manufacturing, and reducing waste.

The Green Team initiative leverages eBay’s reach to invite people to participate in a broader conversation and community around sustainable shopping. The eBay.com/greenteam web site offers rich content, tips and suggestions for everyday buying decisions and seller operations, as well as resources from the environmental community. Most importantly, the site serves as a go-to destination for consumers interested in sharing and hearing from others about why and how they are shopping greener. Team members also are invited to take “eBay Green Team Challenges” to learn how small, everyday changes can have a large, positive impact on the environment.

To extend Green Team awareness offline, eBay is working with Hearst Magazines to launch “30 Days of Green,” which is an extension of Hearst’s successful “30 Days” franchise and is designed to raise visibility among Hearst readers around the issue of sustainable consumption. 30 Days of Green is a month-long, multi- and cross-platform celebration featured in the April issues of all 14 Hearst magazines, including Cosmopolitan; O, the Oprah Magazine; Good Housekeeping; Marie Claire; and Harper’s Bazaar. “30 Days of Green” offers tips and resources from eBay Style Squad members Constance White, Shawn Henderson and Cat Schwartz, with a goal of inspiring more than 70 million readers and 100 million online visitors to take action. The campaign represents the first time that Hearst magazines has ever run an integrated program across every title in its portfolio, and is the first time a program of this scale was driven by original editorial content customized for each title.

Additional extensions of the eBay Green Team initiative include a social media campaign in Facebook and in the blogosphere that will showcase employees who are personally committed to a green way of living, and celebrity auction tie-ins on eBay.com that will generate additional awareness for sustainable consumption issues. eBay also is developing an environmental advisory council comprised of thought-leaders in the academic, NGO, and policymaking community that will help to guide eBay’s activities in the space and support the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.

The eBay Green Team initiative grew out of a grassroots effort begun in 2007 by a small group of passionate eBay employees who wanted to put their environmental values to work. Today, more than 1,000 eBay employees in 18 countries are Green Team members, supporting environmental causes in their local communities and championing sustainable business practices within eBay. When the company needed more office space, the Green Team led eBay to construct the first building built to LEED Gold Standards in San Jose, CA, featuring the city’s largest solar panel installation. eBay has also been a carbon neutral company since 2007 through commitments to energy efficiency, alternative power, green buildings and carbon offsets, thanks to efforts by the eBay Green Team.

About eBay

Founded in 1995, eBay Inc. connects hundreds of millions of people around the world every day, empowering them to explore new opportunities and innovate together. eBay Inc. does this by providing the Internet platforms of choice for global commerce, payments and communications. Building on this positive foundation, eBay Global Citizenship was formed to harness the capabilities that underlie our core businesses to further our ability to be a "force for good." Our citizenship portfolio includes the eBay Green Team, the eBay Foundation, and our ventures for social good - eBay GivingWorks, MicroPlace, and WorldofGood.com by eBay.



Contacts eBay Inc.Annie Lescroart, 408-376-7703anlescroart@ebay.com





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Thin Film Solar Company XsunX Provides Update to Manufacturing Facility Plans

XsunX Provides Update to Manufacturing Facility Plans
Company Plans to Reduce Budget Requirements by Two Thirds While Working to Service Existing Sales Agreements

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., March 4 -- XsunX, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: XSNX), a solar technology Company engaged in the build-out of its multi-megawatt thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar manufacturing facilities in Oregon, today provided updates to its thin film solar module manufacturing plans, and its review of the investment tax credits related to provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

"In January the Company began preparing modifications to its manufacturing plans that would require fewer manufacturing components and significantly less capital expenditures with the objective of providing sufficient manufacturing capacities of approximately 10 to 13 MW necessary to service our existing sales contracts," stated Tom Djokovich, CEO for XsunX. "Our plans include reducing budget requirements to approximately $13 million which is roughly one third our current budget. The majority of cost reductions can be attributed to the need for significantly fewer infrastructure improvements, initial staffing, equipment, and operations related to the cost of goods sold. We believe that this will allow us to continue to add future manufacturing capacities as sales develop and allow the Company to work within the limitations presented by the unanticipated volatility within the financial markets," concluded Mr. Djokovich.

The Company is also reviewing the renewable energy manufacturing investment credit provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 which provides up to $2.3 billion to fund a 30 percent investment tax credit (ITC) for manufacturing assets used to produce alternative energy products. The bill also offers provisions in which developers of manufacturing facilities can apply for grants of up to 30% of the total cost of eligible projects in lieu of the ITC. These credits and grants apply to projects creating or retooling manufacturing facilities to make components used to generate renewable energy. These are areas in which XsunX is already carrying out activities. Upon completion of the review of the ITC provisions the Company may elect to apply for certain of these benefits.

For more information about XsunX, please visit www.XsunX.com .

For more information about XsunX, please visit XsunX Web site: http://www.XsunX.com

XsunX Web site: http://www.XsunX.com
Contact: For XsunX, Inc. Investor Relations Tel: (888) 797-4527

For XsunX, Inc. Media Relations Tel: (949) 330-8065

Safe Harbor Statement: Matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "may", "intend", "expect" and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting the Company and its operations, markets, product, and distributor performance, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently; and other factors detailed in reports filed by the Company.

Source: XsunX, Inc.

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