Insight for a Green Energy Future

Austin, TX, August 13, 2012 -- ImagineSolar hosts a forum of Austin local green energy organizations and solar technology leaders to explore current events and innovation in the local solar industry. The forum and open house happens on Saturday, August 25th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at ImagineSolar's training facility, 4000 Caven Road, Austin, TX 78744.

ImagineSolar will be showcasing exciting products and services from various innovators in the solar industry, from solar modules to inverters to mounting systems. Meet representatives from the following local solar employers:

• Ideal Power Converters

• Schletter

• Greenbelt Solar

• Lighthouse Solar

(more to be announced)

Austin's green energy advocacy organizations are committed to supporting those seeking a clean energy career and to be a part of the renewable energy industry. The ImagineSolar open house will provide the opportunity to connect with the following organizations:

• Texas Green Network (TGN)

• Renewable Energy Student Association (RESA)

• Texas Renewable Energy Industry Association (TREIA)

• Sierra Club, Austin

Michael Kuhn, founder of ImagineSolar, has been active in public policy for the solar industry since the 1990s and is currently working with a local solar advisory committee to create breakthrough models for local solar development. These models could accelerate Austin's current installed capacity for non-utility-scale solar from approximately 6 MW to 300 MW over the next ten years. Kuhn will speak on this work and what to expect in 2013 for Austin's solar industry.

"I remember when you could count on your two hands the number of people working in solar in Austin ten years ago," said Kuhn, "Today we count over 615 people with jobs in the solar industry. We continue to endeavor to ensure that the City of Austin remains a leader for clean energy. Austin's support for local solar is an engine for job creation."

ImagineSolar's open house will also provide opportunities to meet with instructors, learn about new courses and to tour the solar field lab. All attendees will be eligible to sign-up for a coupon valued at $50 that can be applied to the courses. For more information about opportunities download the free eBooks "Career Opportunities in the Solar Industry" and "Career Opportunities in the Smart Grid Industry."

About ImagineSolar

ImagineSolar is dedicated to accelerating the transformation of the energy industry through solar and smart grid education, advisory services, and advocacy. They prepare entrepreneurs, engineers, electricians, and everyone else for clean energy careers and industry certifications (NABCEP). ImagineSolar is a fully-licensed Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) school and is ISPQ accredited for Continuing Education by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. Their training is online, onsite and online LIVE. For class availability and custom training, visit www.imaginesolar.com or call (888) 514-1972.