The project will provide clean and safe solar power to Japan, mitigating idle nuclear and providing energy security.

TOKYO--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced that it has started construction of a solar project in Kitakyushu-shi, Japan. Generation capacity of the project is 1.4MWDC, and it will start operating in Q1 2014. Using First Solar's advanced technology CdTe thin-film PV modules, the project will provide clean and safe solar power to Japan, mitigating idle nuclear and providing energy security.

"This project illustrates First Solar's capability to develop and build solar power plants in Japan," said Joseph Kishkill, First Solar's Chief Commercial Officer. "We are honored to begin our long-term strategic investment in Japan with the Kitakyushu-shi project."

Over 100 million First Solar modules – which integrate advanced Japanese technology – have been installed throughout the world. Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd. (NSG Group), headquartered in Tokyo and one of the world's leading manufacturers of glass, supplies the advanced technology glass with a proprietary electrical film tuned to First Solar's CdTe thin-film modules.

First Solar holds 100 percent equity in the project. Obayashi Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo and Yaskawa Electric Corporation, headquartered in Kitakyushu – both major global construction contractors – will construct the project.

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.