Building on his commitment to clean technology growth in California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger visited Nanosolar’s headquarters in San Jose, CA to sign SB 71 into law, a bill to create a sales tax exemption for the purchase of green tech manufacturing equipment in California.

“California is leading the way with the largest green economy in the nation, creating jobs when they’re needed the most and proving to the world that we can protect our environment and build a stronger economic future at the same time,” said Gov. Schwarzenegger. “SB 71 will expand our clean tech industry and bring the green jobs and businesses we need to rebuild California’s economy – we’re sending a clear message to every entrepreneur and innovator that it pays to invest in a clean future for California.”

Brian Sager, Nanosolar founder, added, “The SB71 manufacturing sales tax exemption helps Nanosolar remain in California, where we plan to further expand our solar cell factory, grow jobs and support the state economy. Gov. Schwarzenegger’s leadership and vision combined with the California Senate and Assembly’s commitment to keeping manufacturing in the state is opening up new opportunities for Californians to work in the emerging clean economy.”

Officials visiting Nanosolar included Gov. Schwarzenegger, Secretary of Labor Victoria Bradshaw, Assembly Speaker John Pérez, Assembly member Sam Blakeslee, State Sen. and SB71 author Alex Padilla, State Sen. Abel Maldonado, as well as San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed, San Jose Council member Ash Kalra, John Boesel, president and CEO, CALSTART, and a dozen executives from leading California solar, fuel cell and other clean technology companies.