I have two systems running Vista 32 bit and tried shutting off the UAC on one of them...that seemed to work. Not sure what that actually does differently, but you might give it a try if you haven't already.
The only way that i've found to bypass the reset is to disable the UAC...otherwise you'll just have to reset them each time you log in...a bit of a pain, but worth it...8)
I agree that sig isn't that important....and buffs are...that's why i mentioned solar sail....if a lvl 9 followed suit with the lvl 8 and had an increase to the device energy conservation...well...that's just what i'd call useful for terrans that are handicapped energy-wise.
Adding the blueprint for a lvl 9 Solar Sail with Scout-oriented buffs might encourage engine builders. Make the Blueprint a mission reward for, say, the lvl 135 HU.....just a thought