So..there are two major kinds of solar panels in the markets today: (1) silicon-based, and (2) cadmium telluride-based. The latter is much cheaper ($0.75 per watt) than silicon ($1.40 per watt), which is why companies like First Solar (FSLR) may have an advantage in this industry.

Here's the full report: www.dailykos.com/story/2011/07/27/999293...Panels-In-Laboratory

What's the community's thoughts on solar power as a viable investment strategy?

New technologies are hit and miss depending upon how much or how little support is gained from lobbying, tax incentives, and/ or infrastructure funded by governmental agencies (e.g. the Internet). There is a good deal of consolidation that is taking place in Solar and it very much requires a hands-on approach to investing including hedge, options, stops, etc. I think the "Gee-Whiz" Factor is still there for Solar. At least it is for people who still say "Gee-Whiz".

I have to agree with Robert.

Knowing how solar panels are engineered and some of their history will shed a lot of light on the issue. Solar panels, wind turbines and various other types of "green" power use a significant amount of rare earth metals. Note that 97% of the worldwide supply of rare earth metals comes from china. (issues abound with that, both politically and economically)

It's not exactly clean, efficient, or easy to mine said materials. Until there is a higher supply, or it becomes easier to manufacture them, it's going to remain a curiosity. Not to mention that many startups still rely on government subsidies to exist, when those expire life will become a lot more difficult if they don't have a sturdy (non-trivial) pool of customers.

Be sure to not get caught up in the myths/publicity that it will 'save the earth'... there's a lot going on under the surface.

www.eia.gov

Monthly report,

and I hope to get some Factor to help in economic of Solar Power plants Industry in the world.

and thanks for some important comments.

Best regards

Aleksandra, thanks for your contribution. I didn't think about the supply of Rare Earth materials being mainly in China. It would be interesting to know the supply chain for US Solar companies. If the bulk or essential materials are coming from China, no wonder most of those US Solar companies are going bankrupt. Also, the point about government subsidies is not minor.