Akeena Solar just announced that their Andalay AC solar panel system won a Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Product Award. The award, which was presented to Akeena’s CEO Barry Cinnamon in a ceremony on Thursday, recognizes “world-changing innovations”- in Akeena’s case, a grid-ready system that performs well, with fewer breakdowns.

In a press release, Cinnamon commented on the award:

“Andalay AC’s reliable performance and installation simplicity are a giant step forward for the solar industry,” said Akeena Solar CEO Barry Cinnamon. “And we’re thrilled to be recognized by Popular Mechanics with the other 2009 game-changing technologies. For years, we’ve been designing solar panels that immediately cut electricity costs, deliver dependable solar power and easier to install.

Andalay AC solar panels are the culmination of our efforts. Now, both experienced installers and even do-it-yourselfers can install a high performance rooftop solar power system safely and easily.”