"We are honored to be recognized by TIME as one of this year's top 50 inventions," said Ascent Solar President and CEO, Ron Eller

THORNTON, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTI), a developer of lightweight, flexible, thin-film photovoltaic modules, announced today that itsflexible CIGS solar panels were named one of TIME's 50 Best Inventions of 2011. Ascent's technology was one of six �green' inventions to be recognized in this year's list, featured in the Nov. 28 TIME issue.

For each of the past 10 years, TIME has recognized the top 50 breakthroughs in science, technology and the arts. Previous honorees have included the iPad, Nissan Leaf, 3-D cameras, and the world's first synthetic cells.

"We are honored to be recognized by TIME as one of this year's top 50 inventions," said Ascent Solar President and CEO, Ron Eller. "Our flexible solar panels integrate seamlessly with countless applications across a wide variety of markets. TIME's recognition further validates the transformational aspects of Ascent's technology."

TIME refers to Ascent's solar panels as "ingenious" for their ability to be directly integrated with building materials without the limitations of standard, glass solar panels.

Ascent Solar's lightweight, flexible solar panels are ideally suited to enable power generation where not previously possible. They are designed to integrate with limitless applications, transforming unused surface area into a source of clean, renewable energy.

TIME's 50 Best Inventions of 2011 can be found at: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2099708,00.html#ixzz1dz9NBZVR

About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.

Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a developer of thin-film photovoltaic modules using flexible substrate materials that can transform the way solar power generation integrates into everyday life. Ascent Solar modules can be directly integrated into standard building materials, commercial transportation, automotive solutions, space applications, consumer electronics for portable power and durable off-grid solutions. Additional information can be found at www.ascentsolar.com.