Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP ) and Petra Solar, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of solar energy and smart grid systems, today announced an alliance that will focus on marketing utility-grade, pole mounted solar AC Systems as well as ongoing development of AC module products.

Petra Solar's SunWave(TM) utility grade solar AC systems are designed to mount quickly and safely to utility distribution and streetlight poles and deliver power directly to the grid. The systems consist of a PV module and integral line voltage inverter with comprehensive communications and smart grid capabilities.

Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Founder, Chairman and CEO said, "[Petra Solar's] vision to create a market for intelligent solar energy systems attached to utility poles and street lights, which combines distributed solar generation and smart grid technology, has great potential for Suntech."

Petra Solar's AC Module has received CSA Certification according to UL standards. In addition, Petra Solar received CSA Qualification for Witness Testing for its manufacturing facility in South Plainfield, NJ, where AC modules and systems will be manufactured.

Reprinted with permission from SustainableBusiness