First Solar Recognizes Top Suppliers with 2012 Achievement Awards

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

First Solar, Inc. FSLR yesterday honored its premier suppliers at the company's second annual Supplier Recognition Day, held on Nov. 13 in Phoenix, Ariz. Approximately 160 of First Solar's top suppliers attended the event, five of whom were honored with the company's NOVA award for outstanding performance in 2012.

First Solar estimates that its business supports approximately 33,000 supply chain jobs, on a global basis. The company created the NOVA award to recognize suppliers who significantly support its mission.

"Our suppliers play a critical role in fulfilling our mission to create enduring value by enabling a world powered by clean, affordable solar electricity," said Shellie Molina, First Solar Vice President, Global Supply Chain. "We appreciate the exceptional efforts of these NOVA award recipients and the value they provide through the highest standards of quality, cost and performance."

The companies honored with the NOVA award were the Morgan Crucible Company, an advanced materials supplier; Nippon Sheet Glass (NSG), one of the world's largest glass companies; Expeditors International, a global logistics company; Oryx Advanced Materials, a provider of thin-film deposition applications; and Rapid Manufacturing, a global manufacturer of custom cable/wire harnesses.

Collaboration with Morgan Crucible substantially improved critical materials processing. NSG helped First Solar achieve its efficiency roadmap while decreasing cost. Expediters International is facilitating effective entry into new markets while maintaining compliance with local laws and regulations. Oryx contributed substantially to cost reduction through its own R&D efforts. Rapid Manufacturing has demonstrated a commitment to First Solar initiatives, providing notable flexibility on project support.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced thin-film modules. 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 collection and recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

For First Solar Investors

This release contains forward-looking statements which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The forward-looking statements in this release do not constitute guarantees of future performance. Those statements involve a number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, including risks associated with the company's business involving the company's products, their development and distribution, economic and competitive factors and the company's key strategic relationships and other risks detailed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. First Solar assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information contained in this press release or with respect to the announcements described herein.