MANITOWOC, Wis., Dec 11, 2009 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX News Network) -- After researching photovoltaic systems for two years, Orion Energy Systems Inc. (Nasdaq:OESX) has formed a strategic partnership with Solyndra Inc., the leading manufacturer of commercial grade PV solar technology.

Solyndra's holistic long-term business philosophy aligns well with Orion's, including innovative technology and vertically integrated manufacturing that combine to offer a product able to deliver the promise of clean energy to Orion's customers for the next 25 years.

Orion's and Solyndra's technologies complement each other well. Because Solyndra's cylindrical PV panels lie flat, they don't block sunlight valuable to Orion's Apollo(R) solar light pipes, which harvest daylight and direct it to a facility floor using no electricity.

"Our reputation for delivering results among our existing install base, encompassing more than 800 million square feet, uniquely positions Orion to integrate clean distributed energy into our customers' 5,000 facilities," said Orion CEO Neal Verfuerth. "As an organization, we've developed a core competency around application engineering and project implementation in all types of operations to include the most complex of facilities throughout North America."

John Scribante, president of Orion's Technology Ventures division, said existing and new customers are enthusiastic about the new technology. "We've already begun the deployment of 600 kilowatts of solar capacity into two of our existing Fortune 500 customers' facilities," he said.

Verfuerth and Solyndra CEO Chris Gronet, Ph.D., met at a White House meeting on March 23, when President Barack Obama applauded Orion and Solyndra in a speech promoting clean energy, the creation of green collar jobs and the importance of energy efficiency and clean technology.

Orion has deployed its energy management systems in 5,082 facilities across North America, including 120 of the Fortune 500 companies. Since 2001, Orion technology has displaced more than 477 megawatts, saving customers more than $710 million and reducing indirect carbon dioxide emissions by 6.1 million tons.

Solyndra Inc. designs and manufactures photovoltaic systems, comprised of panels and mounting hardware, for the commercial rooftop market. Solyndra employs high-volume manufacturing based on proven technologies and processes to meet the needs of the global solar market. Using proprietary cylindrical modules and thin-film technology, Solyndra systems are designed to provide the lowest installed cost per system and the highest solar electrical energy output for typical low slope commercial rooftops. Headquartered in Fremont, Calif., Solyndra operates a state-of-the-art 300,000-square-foot, fully automated manufacturing complex. For more information, visit www.solyndra.com.

Orion Energy Systems Inc. (Nasdaq:OESX) is a leading power technology enterprise that designs, manufactures and implements energy management systems, consisting primarily of high-performance, energy-efficient lighting platforms, intelligent wireless control systems and direct renewable solar technology for commercial and industrial customers without compromising their operations. For more information, visit www.oesx.com.

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SOURCE: Orion Energy Systems, Inc.

CONTACT:  Orion Energy Systems, Inc.
Media Contact
Linda Diedrich, Director Corporate Communications
(920) 482-1988
ljd@oes1.com

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