FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALPHA OFFERS COMPREHENSIVE POWER INSTALLATION SERVICES

Bellingham, Wash., April 20, 2000 - Leading power system manufacturer Alpha Technologies now offers complete field installation services for its full family of communication power products.

“Alpha’s Field Power Services group is a natural addition to the company’s product offering and allows system operators to focus attention on strategic network deployment issues,” commented officials at Alpha.

Alpha works with each customer to determine the appropriate scope-of-work associated with each field installation program. Available services include; right-of-way/easement procurement, site preparation, equipment installation, utility hookup coordination, system turn-up, system testing, and final landscaping. Customers determine which of these services are required and are provided a custom installation services program based on those needs.

The turn-up and test services are performed by field technicians, and are a significant first step in ensuring long-term power system reliability. These services include verification of proper installation and completion of start-up procedures. The combination of these tasks, ensure a smooth implementation of Alpha’s power systems in the field.

Preventative Maintenance programs are also part of Alpha’s new service offering. By providing consistent field maintenance, power system service life is maximized. Battery life can be significantly increased through such regular maintenance programs. For generator applications, routine maintenance is performed approximately three times a year. This entails thoroughly cleaning each component of the generator, as well as performing a pre-determined list of maintenance procedures.

Alpha’s new service offering provides several benefits to system operators. Alpha specialists are working with familiar products, which helps ensure that the equipment will be installed properly. Alpha provides detailed project management for the entire project, and is responsible for the accurate and timely completion of the installation. This includes responding to after hour calls. The customer also has the option of sending their own technicians into the field with the representative to learn “hands-on” operation of the unit. Regional service centers offer expert application services, warranty support, network power monitoring, and customer training programs.

Alpha Technologies Inc. develops power conversion, protection and standby products for telecommunications and cable television industries, including custom, application-specific power solutions. In addition to product development, Alpha Technologies provides a comprehensive range of installation and maintenance services to support its global customer base. Alpha Technologies is a member of The Alpha Group of companies.

The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy - create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets.

For this and/or additional information in electronic form, go to www.alpha.com.