REC ASA - Moses Lake "Plant III" star...

Sandvika, February  9,  2009:  The  weld  repair  work  announced  on
December 15, 2008 will  be completed early this  week. The extent  of
repairs  was  almost   double  of  what   was  projected,  and   have
consequently taken much longer than expected.

Following the completion of the  repairs, a final process of  systems
checks and start-up procedures will be initiated, before the plant is
expected to start commercial production in the second half of  March.
This revised start-up schedule should have limited negative effect on
the production level further downstream  in REC in the first  quarter
as long as external sourcing of polysilicon continues successfully.

"As previously stated, start-up and ramp-up of a large chemical plant
is a complex task,  and some interruptions should  be expected in  an
early phase.  We  hope,  however,  that  our  extensive  testing  and
preparations will  reduce  this  risk  to  some  extent",  says  Erik
Thorsen, President & CEO.

Despite the delayed start-up,  and based on a  smooth ramp-up of  the
new plant, total targeted production for 2009 should end in the range
of 10,000 - 11,000 MT.

An update will be given when the company presents its interim results
for the fourth quarter 2008 on February 18, 2008.


About REC
REC is uniquely positioned as one of the most integrated companies in
the solar energy industry. REC Silicon and REC Wafer are the  world's
largest producers of polysilicon  and wafers for solar  applications.
REC Solar  produces  solar cells  and  solar modules  and  engage  in
project development activities in selected segments of the PV market.
REC Group had revenues in 2007 of NOK 6,642 million and an  operating
profit of NOK 2,588 million. Please also see www.recgroup.com.


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