The Business Development Division from Gilbert, Arizona will be exhibiting at the Solar Power International (SPI) 2009 Conference to promote Gilbert's world class solar resources, unique business opportunities, R&D advantages, and investment incentives designed to attract companies.

FOR RELEASE: October 27, 2009

Gilbert, Ariz. Business Development Group Promotes Business Advantages & Incentives at Solar Power International 2009

New Gilbert Mayor and Team Set to Attract Solar Companies via Strategic Initiatives and Incentives

Solar Power International 2009, Anaheim, CA, October 27, 2009 - The Business Development Division from Gilbert, Arizona, in conjunction with the Arizona Department of Commerce, Arizona Public Service utility company, and Greater Phoenix Economic Council, will be exhibiting at the Solar Power International (SPI) 2009 Conference being held October 27-29, 2009 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. With a strategic industry focus on clean and renewable energy companies, Gilbert's Mayor John Lewis, along with its Business Development staff, will be meeting with interested companies and site selectors from around the U.S. and world to promote Gilbert's world class solar resources, unique business opportunities, R&D advantages, and investment incentives designed to attract companies. Gilbert's Business Development team will be located in the Arizona Public Service booth #827.

"Solar Power International is a prime place to showcase Arizona\'s renewable energy assets,\" said Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. \"It\'s also a great opportunity for local leadership to connect directly with decision makers who are looking to expand or grow their business. Gilbert\'s team will represent the community and Greater Phoenix well. We look forward to attending the conference with them.\"

"Gilbert recognizes the strategic importance that solar and renewable energy represents to our future economic growth," stated Gilbert Mayor John Lewis. "We are excited to participate in this year's Solar Power International Conference and meet with companies interested in learning more about the unique qualities and incentives Gilbert and Arizona have for solar energy companies."

Companies visiting with Gilbert, Arizona representatives at its booth will receive the latest Industry reports, statistics, and other informational materials about Arizona's solar industry and its unique economic advantages, investment opportunities, and future growth areas. Literature will be provided from the Arizona Department of Commerce, Arizona Public Service Company, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Arizona State University, and others.

Arizona Bill SB1403 for Renewable, High-wage Industries Incentives

Recognizing the strategic importance of attracting solar and renewable energy companies to Arizona, the Arizona State Legislature passed Bill SB1403 for renewable, high-wage industries incentives to take effect January 1, 2010. The bill establishes a renewable energy business tax incentive program within the Arizona Department of Commerce (Commerce) for expanding or locating qualified renewable energy manufacturing or headquarters in Arizona, and is designed to make the state more competitive with other states offering similar incentives. Summary of Bill SB1403

Key Solar Industry Advantages to Gilbert, Ariz. and Greater Phoenix Region

● Arizona is home to the nation's only photovoltaic testing laboratory at ASU Polytechnic - border of Gilbert & Mesa. The most comprehensive, sophisticated, state-of-the-art facility in the world for testing and certification of solar energy companies' equipment.

● More than 100 established solar companies operate in Arizona providing a range of services including manufacturing, design, installation, distribution.

● World's first school of sustainability at ASU (Global Institute of Sustainability).

● Gilbert is centrally located between two major airports, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the new Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

● With 321 days of sunshine per year, the Phoenix area is poised to be the solar energy capital of the U.S.

● Top two market for concentrated semiconductor workforce relative to total employment.

● One of the strongest growth markets for business and consumer solar products and services.

About Gilbert, Ariz. Business Development Services
As a division of Gilbert\'s development services department, business development is committed to the attraction and retention of business and industry to the Gilbert community. The division provides expert support in streamlining site searches for businesses, connecting decision-makers and leveraging knowledge assets that spur innovation.

About Gilbert, Arizona

Gilbert, Arizona is located approximately 10 miles southeast of Phoenix, Arizona and centrally positioned between two major airports, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the new Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. With a population of 220,000 Gilbert was ranked the 4th fastest-growing large municipality in the nation according to CNN/Money Magazine. Gilbert also has one of the finest K-12 education systems in Arizona and ranks 28th out of the top 100 best places to live in America. For more information about Gilbert, Arizona, call (480) 503-6080 or visit: http://www.ci.gilbert.az.us/.



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