Canadian Solar Inc., ("the Company", "Canadian Solar"), one of the world's largest solar power companies, today announced that it was selected by Argand Energy Solutions for a 2.3MW solar power project in Louisburg, North Carolina. 

Argand Energy Solutions and Horne Brothers Construction, Inc. began construction of the ground-mounted, utility solar power system on June 3, 2013, with system grid connection targeted for August 2013.  Approximately 7,700 of Canadian Solar's CS6X-300P PV Modules will be installed in the solar power project, capable of supplying enough energy to power about 460 homes annually upon completion.  Fifth Third Bank provided construction financing for the solar power project.

"Argand is really excited to be starting construction on this project, especially in light of Governor McCrory's declaration of June as Solar Energy Month in North Carolina," commented Erik Lensch President & CEO Argand Energy Solutions, LLC.  "We are looking forward to working with landowners in North Carolina that are interested in converting farmland into an income generating asset by hosting a solar farm.  These types of projects are a win-win for everyone - the landowner gets income, the county gets more tax revenue, and North Carolina benefits, as companies like Argand hire and train more workers for solar installations.  Additionally, the United States takes another step forward towards energy independence and the reduction in the use of carbon based fuels.  Canadian Solar's bankability, global brand recognition, proven quality and performance were key factors in our confident selection of the company as our partner for this important solar power project."

The Honorable Pat McCrory, Governor of North Carolina, has declared June 2013 Solar Energy Month in acknowledgement of the State's significant solar energy potential.  According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, North Carolina ranked fifth in the nation last year for installed solar energy projects, and is on pace to be ranked fourth in 2013.  North Carolina is home to one of the fastest-growing solar energy industries in the United States, attracting solar energy developers, installers, manufacturers and related enterprises.  Further, the Governor's proclamation notes that solar installations create jobs, increase local and state revenue and are environmentally sound.