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General Wesley K. Clark and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell Added As Keynoters for Solar Power International '08

Posted on: Wednesday, 1 October 2008, 15:00 CDT

Today the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) announced the complete plenary program for Solar Power International '08 (below). The diversity and distinguished standing of the plenary speakers clearly demonstrates the significance of solar power both nationally and globally. From politicians to production homebuilders, and from global manufacturers to financial leaders, the interest in solar at the top level of leadership across industries is increasing daily. As the largest solar event in the Americas and the premiere destination for global solar companies conducting business in the United States, Solar Power International takes place October 13-16 at the San Diego Convention Center. With an international contingent hailing from at least 70 countries, organizers expect more than 15,000 attendees including solar industry professionals, utility executives, investors, engineers and policymakers.

OPENING PLENARY - TUESDAY, OCT. 14 Keynote: Robert Greifeld, Chief Executive Officer, The NASDAQ OMX Group Keynote: General Wesley K. Clark, U.S. Army Ret. and former NATO Allied Supreme Commander Europe CEO PANELS - WEDNESDAY, OCT. 15 Moderator: Adam Aston, BusinessWeek Panel No. 1 - Market Development Michael Ahearn, CEO, First Solar Lyndon Rive, CEO, SolarCity James Rogers, CEO, Duke Energy Santiago Seage, CEO, Abengoa Solar Panel No. 2 - Driving Down Costs Matthew Cheney, CEO, MMA Renewable Ventures Martin Heming, CEO, SCHOTT Solar GmbH Anton Milner, CEO, Q-Cells Jeannine Sargent, CEO, Oerlikon Solar CLOSING PLENARY - THURSDAY, OCT. 16 Keynote: Rick Andreen, President, Shea Homes for Active Lifestyle Communities Keynote: The Honorable Maria Cantwell, U.S. Senator (D-WA)

In addition to the plenary program, Solar Power International '08 will feature more than 60 breakout sessions. The 174,000-square-foot expo floor will include 425 exhibitors from every corner of the solar industry. Together the conference program and expo floor encompass the complete range of solar energy technologies, including photovoltaics, concentrating photovoltaics, concentrating solar power, solar hot water and space heating and cooling.

"Global warming's increasing threats to our communities and coastal cities along with our dependence on fossil fuel and foreign oil are all critical national security issues that are threatening America and the World," said General Wesley K. Clark, a supporter of Global Green USA's Climate Action Initiative to protect Coastal Cities. "Solar power is one of the immediate solutions that can help us solve these challenges and put Americans to work building the sustainable, renewable energy future for our country. I'm looking forward to meeting the men and women who are charting this new course."

Representing the building sector--which is responsible for using 70 percent of electricity generated in the U.S.--residential production home builders are now stepping up to the plate to implement solar power. "My company recognizes that energy efficient, solar-powered homes are a reality for today's homebuyer and we are taking action," said Rick Andreen, president of Shea Homes for Active Lifestyle Communities. "The continued growth of the solar industry and the rapid pace of innovation have made it easier and more affordable than ever to build a solar-powered home. Solar Power International '08 provides me with the opportunity to discuss how to invigorate businesses in the building industry to join Shea on this front."

Although almost exclusively a business-to-business event, Solar Power International will continue to expand its focus on consumers through a partnership with the nonprofit California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE). Solar Power International coincides with CCSE's annual Solar Energy Week, creating a comprehensive, week-long schedule in San Diego addressing both professional and consumer solar interests. Activities for the public will include Family Solar Day on October 12, a public opening of the Solar Power International expo floor on the evening of October 15 and the Tour of Solar Homes on October 18. San Diego Gas & Electric, the Utility Host Sponsor for Solar Power International, will also be promoting Solar Energy Week activities to both its commercial and residential customers.

Last year's event sold out in advance, so organizers encourage early registration to guarantee participation. To register and find more information, please visit www.solarpowerinternational.com.

Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) bridges electric utilities and the solar industry to push solar forward more tangibly, one real business at a time. From national conferences to one-on-one counseling and peer matching services, SEPA's unique joint partnership offers members critical access to the key business relationships and unbiased, actionable intelligence needed to make solar practical and profitable in today's shifting energy landscape. www.solarelectricpower.org

Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association representing 700 solar energy manufacturers, dealers, distributors, contractors, installers, architects, consultants and marketers. Established in 1974, SEIA works to expand the use of solar technologies in the global marketplace, strengthen research and development, remove market barrier, and improve education and outreach for solar. www.seia.org

Source: Business Wire

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