First Solar, Inc., and JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation announced on November 15th that they have signed an agreement for the distribution of First Solar's high efficiency solar photovoltaic modules in Japan through April 2015. As part of the agreement First Solar, the global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions, will develop and manufacture the new technology obtained through the acquisition of TetraSun. JX Nippon, Japan's distributor of oil and other energy solutions will distribute the technology. Partnered together, JX Nippon and First Solar will provide solar energy solutions to meet Japan's unique power needs.

Developed with a unique and revolutionary PV cell architecture, and an innovative manufacturing process combining the consistency of conventional crystalline Silicon technology with the high performance of high-end mono-crystalline technologies, the First Solar offering allows discerning Japanese consumers' access to technology that is high on efficiency, performance & quality.

James Hughes, CEO, First Solar, said, "We are very pleased to partner with the leading energy company JX Nippon in Japan. JX's far-reaching distribution and our technology expertise will combine to deliver high quality solar power solutions to Japan. This agreement reinforces First Solar's commitment to deliver safe, clean, and sustainable solutions to meet Japan's unique energy needs and energy security goals."

JX Nippon is the market leader in Japan in refining and marketing of oil through its ENEOS brand, and is also engaged in
new energy business in order to strive to become an integrated energy company. Hiroya Nishijima, SVP, JX Nippon, said "TetraSun, manufactured by First Solar, is a unique technology that can deliver high performance and high quality solar energy solutions. The agreement will provide a new and valuable option for our customers.