Leading Spontaneous Construction in Solar Rich Texas

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 21, 2014 -- The Butler Firm, PLLC is proud to assist First Solar in the beginning stages of the 22 MW Barilla Solar Project in Pecos County, Texas. Construction on Phase I of the 22 MW utility solar plant was announced January 22, 2014 and is on track to begin commercial operation mid year.

The Butler Firm team proudly performed legal and regulatory services on behalf of this truly ground-breaking project. The Barilla Solar Project represents a step forward for the industry because it is being constructed and financed without a PPA. Furthermore this innovative project represents ever-lowering cost to construct a solar power plant and the increasing comfort levels of major energy institutional investors and financiers in solar technologies.

Located in one of the best solar resource areas in Texas, the Barilla utility solar plant will be able to provide electricity to more heavily populated areas during times of peak energy demand. First Solar will offer clean, reliable electricity at competitive rates to customers including municipal utilities, electric cooperatives and larger commercial and industrial users.

"Our team here at the Butler Firm has been working with First Solar on this project performing legal work and ERCOT/regulatory services," said Clay Butler. "This is a huge milestone. We are engaged with a number of other companies actively developing projects in Texas, and I'm sure they will understand and appreciate the significance of this announcement. I expect to see other wholesale market solar plants follow."

First Solar provides solutions to contemporary energy problems. "First Solar is excited to help Texas meet its peak energy demand using clean, affordable solar power," said Brian Kunz, First Solar's Vice President of Project Development. "An additional benefit is that solar power plants require no water to generate electricity," said Kunz. "This is important in West Texas, where scarce water resources must be preserved."

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced module and system technology. The company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

About the Butler Firm

The Butler Firm, PLLC, is an industry leader as one of the only joint legal and consulting firms specific to clean and renewable energy transactions in the world. Based in Texas, the attorneys and consultants service client needs across state, national, and continental lines representing developers / sponsors, investors, lenders, and insurers in all matters relating to the development, ownership, and operation of clean and renewable generation resources.