News

Kyocera Solar, Inc. Introduces Full Line of Utility Grid-Tied Solar Electric Systems for U.S. Market

Systems Qualify for Up to 50% Reimbursement Through California Energy Commission Program

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- June 26, 2001 -- Kyocera Solar Inc. (KSI), a world-leading supplier of photovoltaic (PV) systems, today announced the nationwide availability of a full line of standardized, rooftop-mounted solar energy systems which promise to make solar electricity a practical reality for thousands of everyday home and business owners.

The new products, called the Kyocera Solar MyGen™ (My Generation) systems, convert sunlight into utility-quality AC power which can be used by a residence or business, or automatically sold back to the electric utility company.

During daylight hours the system's solar modules generate DC electricity, which is converted to AC by an inverter and fed back into the utility grid. Through this process, MyGen systems enable the home or business owner to legally "turn the utility meter backward" and significantly lower their electric bill. Best of all, the user remains 100% connected to the utility's power grid, for a stable supply of electricity regardless of sunlight conditions.

The heart of every MyGen system is the Kyocera solar electric module, which is UL-listed and carries a 25-year warranty. MyGen systems include all components necessary for quick, code-approved installation on nearly all roof types and styles. Twelve complete MyGen systems are now available, ranging from a 400-watt basic system to an 8-kilowatt (kW) system for larger homes. Kyocera initially expects the most popular system to be the MyGen™ 24, a 2.3kW AC system designed to offset approximately 60% to 75% of the electrical consumption of the typical single-family residence in California.*

"Kyocera unveiled the MyGen concept in key markets earlier this year, and response has been overwhelming," said Doug Allday, president of Kyocera Solar Inc. "People are very interested in protecting themselves and their families from present and future rate increases. More important, we believe the power crisis has awakened many consumers to the reality of solar energy as a limitless, environmentally safe alternative."

All MyGen™ systems are sold through a network of Kyocera-authorized dealers and contractors, and up to 50% of their total purchase price is eligible for reimbursement through the California Energy Commission's Emerging Renewable Buydown Program. For more information, contact Kyocera Solar Inc.'s Commercial Products Group at 800/544-6466, ext. 7728.

Kyocera Solar, Inc. (KSI) is a world-leading supplier of environmentally sound, solar electric energy solutions. With operating headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz., and regional sales centers on five continents, KSI services thousands of customers in both developed and developing regions. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kyocera International Inc. of San Diego, the North American headquarters and holding company for Kyoto, Japan-based Kyocera Corp.

Kyocera Corp., parent and headquarters of the global Kyocera Group, has sold and installed more than 19,000 residential solar systems. Since its founding in 1959, the company has combined its core competency in advanced materials with other technologies to become a leading producer of solar energy systems, industrial and electronic components, and information and communications equipment, including wireless phones, copiers, printers, faxes and cameras. Kyocera Corp., which recorded consolidated sales exceeding $10 billion for the year ended March 31, 2001, has been recognized by Industry Week magazine as one of "The World's 100 Best-Managed Companies."

*Based on Kyocera Solar Inc. estimates indicating a typical electrical demand of approximately 500 kilowatt hours (KWH) per month among single-family California residences. Individual demand may be higher or lower depending on the number of people living in the home, the appliances used and whether the home has a swimming pool and/or air conditioning.

Contact:

Kyocera Solar Inc., Scottsdale
Monica Meyer, 480/948-8003