We've learned from sources inside and outside the company that home energy efficiency and thermostat company EcoFactor is experiencing a bit of a management shakeup. It looks like John Steinberg, the founder and CEO, will be stepping aside to allow another CEO to take the helm of the firm. We'll know more in a few days.

Julian Hawkins, former Senior VP at Abound Solar, has joined the precariously functioning Energy Conversion Devices as CEO. Energy Conversion Devices (Nasdaq:ENER) is a long-struggling supplier of flexible amorphous silicon (a-Si) photovoltaic laminates, with a deflated stock price amidst a "Restructuring Plan" and recent suspension of its manufacturing operations. It is difficult to envision ECD surviving much longer as an independent public entity.

Cobalt Technologies, a developer of next-generation bio n-butanol, appointed Bob Mayer as chairman of its Board of Directors and CEO.  Mayer was the former executive vice president of Danisco.

John Carrington assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at MiaSolé, the third gentleman to assume that position since the firm's founding. Carrington was EVP of global marketing and business development at First Solar and before that at General Electric. He replaces Joseph Laia, who despite having his issues with the board and company morale, was responsible for raising money for the firm in difficult times and raising the efficiency of the firm's CIGS thin film solar panels.

In October, Next Autoworks (formerly V-Vehicle Company) named auto executive Kathleen Ligocki as CEO, replacing Interim CEO Ray Lane (a partner at investor Kleiner Perkins), who will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board. Ligocki previously served as CEO of Tower Automotive and GS Motors and led several global divisions of Ford Motor Company. Next Autoworks' fate is uncertain after the recent loss of a DOE loan guarantee.