Green Guide: Investing in Solar Energy Stocks

Harnessing the energy from the sun to power our society is essential if we are to reduce our demand for fossil fuels. Solar technology has been around for decades, and costs are beginning to come down as state and federal government provide subsidies for both power companies and individuals. If you want to invest in the future of alternative energy, consider adding stock of companies involved in the solar power industry to your portfolio. Some companies are more developed than others, and many are still highly speculative. Before investing, be sure to do your own research on any prospective company. This guide provides basic information on ten solar energy companies with publicly traded stock. This is not investment advice, but rather an introduction into the world of solar energy investing. Doing further research on these companies should lead you to other potential investments, which you can compare and contrast to this list.

Akeena Solar, Inc. (AKNS) - This solar installer serves California customers, both commercial and residential. Akeena has patented technology that makes installation easier. The company's stock is traded on NASDAQ.

China Sunergy (CSUN) - China Sunergy manufactures solar cells. The company sells its products to manufacturers of solar systems. CSUN stock is traded on NASDAQ.

Evergreen Solar (ESLR) - This company provides solar power systems using patented wafer technology. Evergreen Solar supplies both commercial and residential customers around the world. ESLR stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market.

Daystar Technologies, Inc. (DSTI) - Daystar Technologies is a leader in the production of solar energy products. This California based company is focused on reducing the cost of solar energy. The company's stock is traded on NASDAQ.

First Solar (FSLR) - First Solar is a developer and producer of thin cell solar power systems. This company is an innovator in the field of solar power. FSLR stock is traded on NASDAQ.

Hoku Scientific, Inc. (HOKU) - This company is an alternative energy company offering more than just solar power products. Hoku Scientific is involved in the production of photovoltaic systems, and offers both sales and leases of its products. The company's stock is traded on NASDAQ.

MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (WFR) - This company is a leader in solar wafer technology. SunEdison is a subsidiary of MEMC Electronics. WFR stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

Sunpower Corporation (SPWRA & SPWRB) - This company manufactures solar cells and panels. Sunpower is involved in a range of solar power activities, and has even partnered with NASA on solar powered gliders. The corporation's stock is traded on NASDAQ

Suntech Power Holdings Co., Inc. (STP) - Suntech Power is a global leader in the development of solar systems. The company produces solar cells and modules. STP stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange.
Trinia Solar Ltd. (TSL) - The company is manufactures mono and multi-crystalline photovoltaic modules. This Chinese solar energy company was founded in 1997. Trinia's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange.