The event will take place October 13-16 at the San Diego Convention Center and is expected to attract a record 12,000 professionals from more than 70 countries and 400 exhibitors from 14 countries. Besides top vendors presenting the state-of-the-art in solar energy technologies and services, Solar Power 2008 features more than 60 conference sessions and workshops covering the latest market, policy, finance and technology issues as well as a world-renowned CEO Panel plenary session.

Conference organizers also revealed the first confirmed keynote speaker for this year - Bob Greifeld, chief executive officer of The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc. Greifeld will address conference attendees on global market conditions, the outlook for IPOs and Wall Street's role in the future of the solar industry.

"Every year since its inception five years ago, Solar Power Conference and Expo's top-rated keynote speakers have reflected the critical issues of interest to our attendees in the given year. Greifeld's 20-year history as a technology entrepreneur and his successful leadership of the world's largest exchange will bring invaluable insight to the Opening Plenary," said Julia Hamm, chair of Solar Power Conference and Expo and executive director of SEPA.

"We look forward to Greifeld's view from the Street, including his perspective on the investment climate, market mechanisms, and key issues for continued industry growth."

"The solar industry's growth has fueled the rapid rise of Solar Power Conference and Expo as North America's preeminent solar event," said Rhone Resch, president of SEIA.

"In 2007, solar companies attracted $10 billion in investment and attained a market capitalization of approximately $70 billion, up from just $8.1 billion in 2005. The U.S. solar industry also added 6,000 new jobs to accommodate this rapid growth. This momentum is driven by federal and state incentives to expand U.S. installations. Solar Power 2008 is an important industry gathering where we'll review what has happened over the past year and provide expert insight into what is to come."

In addition to the full array of conference sessions, extensive exhibits and industry networking opportunities, the featured CEO Panel plenary session promises to deliver stimulating dialogue on all the exciting and fast-changing market conditions. The panel will feature top executives from the most important players in the solar marketplace, including manufacturers, project developers and contractors, electric utilities, and large buyers such as big box stores.

Solar Power 2008 will encompass the full range of solar energy technologies, including photovoltaics, concentrating photovoltaics, concentrating solar power, solar hot water, and space heating and cooling. The event also features an online career center to support the recruiting of qualified professionals - a top concern of an industry experiencing record growth.

A new online registration function will allow professionals to filter and sort through exhibitors and session content to create customized personal floor plans and itineraries. These online tools will allow users to make the most of their time in San Diego, navigating the large show floor and comprehensive conference agenda with ease.

Another unique feature of this year's event is an expanded focus on consumers. Solar Power 2008 Conference and Expo, a business-to-business event, has partnered with the non- profit California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) to coincide with San Diego's annual Solar Energy Week. This combination creates a comprehensive, week-long schedule 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 2008 exhibit hall on the evening of October 15, and the Tour of Solar Homes on October 18. San Diego Gas and Electric, the Utility Host Sponsor for Solar Power 2008, will also be promoting Solar Energy Week activities to both its commercial and residential customers.

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