Solar Panel Makers Seek Local Ties

Solar panel makers, taking cues from industrial products like Trane air-conditioners and Andersen windows, are racing to roll-out networks of installers across the U.S. and internationally as they try to establish their brands in the residential market.

SunPower Corp. (SPWRB), Suntech Power Holdings Co. (STP) and others are enlisting hundreds of locally-owned installers with partnerships that offer training, sales support and help with marketing and advertising.

With the dealer networks, the manufacturers hope to build brand awareness in what many see as a commodity product. But the moves come as solar-panel manufacturers battle weak demand due to the recession and an oversupply of panels.

Read the rest of this post on the original site