Colorado Governor Ritter Celebrates New Energy Economy Jobs & Opportunities For Colorado

April 14, 2009 -- Colorado Governor Ritter showcased Colorado's New Energy Economy today, taking part in ribbon-cutting and factory openings for Abound Solar and GE Energy Control Solutions in Longmont and keynoting the Rocky Mountain New Energy Markets Summit in Denver.

The Abound Solar and GE Energy facilities will employ roughly 600 workers. Nearly 200 energy-industry stakeholders attended the New Energy Summit, focusing on market, investment and other opportunities in the New Energy Economy and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

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"Our New Energy Economy is leading Colorado forward as new companies locate here and existing companies expand," Gov. Ritter said. "We're creating a new energy future through sustainable energy technologies that are bringing good jobs to Colorado and making us a nationally recognized leader."

Gov. Ritter helped in the ribbon-cutting and grand opening of Abound Solar's new manufacturing facility in Longmont. The company produces next-generation, thin-film photovoltaic modules and has 200 employees and plans to add 200-300 more.

"Abound Solar is a true Colorado story," Gov. Ritter said. "This solar company developed much of its technology at Colorado State University, secured early stage funding from NREL and the Department of Energy, and now is locally manufacturing the energy technologies to power our future."

Gov. Ritter also spoke at the grand opening of GE Energy Control Solutions unit that provides products and services for turbines, generators, compressors and controllers for hydroelectric and nuclear power plants. This new Longmont facility will include 180 current employees relocating from Loveland. GE Energy is planning to establish additional programs for student internships and summer jobs with nearby university and community colleges.

"Today's grand openings and the jobs they represent are a testament to Colorado's New Energy Economy," Gov. Ritter said. "Thank you to Abound Solar and GE Energy Control Solutions for helping to lead Colorado forward."

The Rocky Mountain New Energy Markets Summit was hosted by the law firm Holme Roberts & Owen and sponsored by Morgan Stanley and Altira.

Source: Colorado Governor