Canadian Solar Modules Secure Top PTC Ratings

SAN RAMON, Calif., June 15, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar Inc. (the "Company," "we" or "Canadian Solar") (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, today announced the Company's photovoltaic (PV) modules continue to rank among the top for PVUSA Test Conditions (PTC) Ratings.

Effective May 2012, out of almost nine thousand eligible modules rated in the California Energy Commission (CEC)'s Solar Electric Incentive program, Canadian Solar modules continue to rank among the top for PTC efficiency ratings, maintaining their leadership position in the market. Canadian Solar's CS6P-P product line has a stellar PTC Efficiency rating average of 91 percent for wattages from 235-250.

"Since its inception, Canadian Solar products have been backed by third-party certifications resulting from rigorous formal inspection and testing to ensure they meet international standards for performance, quality and safety," said Alan King, USA general manager at Canadian Solar. "We consistently earn high PTC ratings, providing assurance to our customers and partners in respect to the quality, performance and longevity of Canadian Solar modules and cells."

PTC Ratings and Certification Overview

The California Solar Initiative (CSI), a key component of the Go Solar campaign, established an industry standard with the creation of the PTC rating program and has become universally recognized for providing a more real world measurement of solar panel performance. To date, the CSI program has facilitated the installation of more than 1.2 GW of solar. PTC ratings or Photovoltaic Utility Scale Application Testing Conditions were initiated by the California Energy Commission via the California Go Solar program to measure a solar module's power output. California solar installers pay close attention to PTC ratings since they can apply for rebates on photovoltaic installations built using modules successfully listed in the eligibility program. A higher PTC rating indicates higher actual on-site solar energy production per watt installed, which leads to faster return on investment. For more information about PTC ratings for companies and modules, visit: www.energy.ca.gov/2008publications/CEC-300-2008-007/CEC-300-2008-007-CMF.PDF

Canadian Solar has risen through the ranks to become the fifth largest solar manufacturer in the world. With a track record of well managed year-over-year growth, the company has aptly demonstrated its prowess for building a world-class solar company committed to its customers and the quality of its products around the globe.

About Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ)

Canadian Solar Inc. is one of the world's largest solar companies. As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingots, wafers, solar cells, solar modules and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. For more information, visit www.canadiansolar.com.

U.S. offices: 12657 Alcosta Blvd, Suite 130, San Ramon, CA 94583
Telephone: 1-925-866-2700
Fax: 1-925-866-2704

SOURCE Canadian Solar Inc.