LOS GATOS, Calif., Dec 9, 2008 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX News Network) -- Akeena Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq:AKNS), a leading designer and installer of solar power systems, today announced the appointment of Jeff Kiel as Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, effective December 15, 2008. Most recently, Mr. Kiel was Executive Vice President of Sales and Business Development for a Silicon Valley-based mobile technology company. Previously, Mr. Kiel was President and Publisher and Vice President of Advertising for the San Jose Mercury News. Prior to that, Mr. Kiel was Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer of The Miami Herald. "Jeff is a terrific addition to the Akeena family," said Barry Cinnamon, Akeena's President and CEO. "Jeff has a record of strong sales leadership in the intensely competitive newspaper industry and proven track record of sales cost discipline. With the solar ITC becoming effective in January, and U.S. economic policies expected to favor industries of the future such as solar power, we are preparing for rapid growth in 2009 and beyond. Under Jeff's leadership, our sales team will be in capable hands to generate rapid and profitable growth." "I am thrilled to be joining Akeena," said Mr. Kiel. "It is an exciting time in our industry and as the only pure-play solar installer, Akeena is ideally positioned to capture an increasing share of residential and commercial solar demand, and to establish a strong foothold in the developing utility market. I look forward to spearheading Akeena's next stage of growth." Mr. Kiel replaces Steve Daniel, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and Bill Scott, Executive Vice President of Sales, who have resigned to pursue other opportunities. About Akeena Solar, Inc. Founded in 2001, Akeena Solar's philosophy is simple: We believe producing clean electricity directly from the sun is the right thing to do for our environment and economy. Akeena Solar has grown to become one of the largest installers of residential and small commercial solar power systems in the United States, serving customers directly in California, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. For more information, visit Akeena Solar's website at www.akeena.com. The Akeena Solar, Inc. logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=5143 This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com SOURCE: Akeena Solar Inc. Akeena Solar, Inc. Barry Cinnamon, President and CEO (408) 402-9400 bcinnamon@akeena.com Lippert / Heilshorn & Associates Investor Relations Contact: Jody Burfening Amy Gibbons agibbons@lhai.com (212) 838-3777