At this point, almost everyone is aware of the growing threat of climate change. The United Nations has projected that global temperatures could rise by 4 to 6 degrees this century, leading to an increasing number of frequent and devastating natural disasters. While the international community continues to debate the root causes of climate change, many have acknowledged that there is no time to waste in finding a way to reduce our energy dependence on fossil fuels. Fortunately, there is a renewable energy source that can provide heat and light for our homes, businesses, and communities while avoiding the harmful effects of climate change – solar power! In this article, we will take a look at seven of the most prominent and respected solar companies so that you can determine whether or not they are right for your investment needs.
First Solar
Based in Billerica, Massachusetts, First Solar is one of the world’s largest and most well-known solar cell manufacturers. With headquarters in China, the company also has operations in Germany, Hungary, Malaysia, Singapore, and Spain. This year, First Solar generated nearly $14 billion in revenues and sold over 24 million solar-powered products, ranging from small solar roof panels to large solar power plants. The company is expected to continue growing at a rapid pace as it expands into new markets such as Latin America and Africa. If you’re interested in investing in a company whose primary business is generating electricity from the sun, then First Solar might be the perfect fit for you.
Sun Edison
Founded in 2010, Sun Edison is a subsidiary of SunPower Corporation that focuses on the residential and commercial markets. Based in Roseville, California, SunEdison currently has 12.9 million square feet of solar roof space across 23 states and the District of Columbia, which it uses to provide electricity to its customers. The company also has nearly 500 installed ground-mount PV systems across the country, as well as a 20 MW solar power plant in California. The residential and commercial markets seem to be the main focus for SunEdison, as it recently filed a patent for a smart meter that would allow customers to monitor and regulate their energy use. This is in addition to a number of solar-powered kiosks that the company has installed across the country, providing residents with weather-based information and selling them solar-powered devices such as lights, fans, and water heaters.
Hanwha Solar Holdings
Another company based in California, Hanwha Solar Holdings is the holding company of Hanwha Group, which is among the world’s largest integrated businesses involving metals, pharmaceuticals, and media. Hanwha Solar Holdings was established in 2010 and is currently one of the largest and most well-known solar companies in the world. Their innovative technologies and superior quality control have enabled them to grow extremely quickly and capture a large portion of the solar market share. Hanwha Solar Holdings specializes in the design and manufacture of solar cells, modules, and systems for the residential and commercial markets. Their products are sold under the Solar Frontier, Freedom Solar, and Sunwoo brands. If you’d like to invest in a company that is dedicated to providing sustainable and clean energy to the world, then Hanwha Solar Holdings is the perfect fit for you.
Suntech
Founded in 1992, Suntech is a leading solar power company that operates in 16 countries across five continents, with headquarters located in Xi’an, China. The company currently has over 125,000 registered users on its web site who can access information about the products, services, and financing available from Suntech. This year, the company generated $12.8 billion in revenues and sold over 100 million pieces of solar-related equipment, ranging from small solar panels to large solar power plants. In addition to solar products, Suntech also provides residential and commercial services to its customers, such as system design and installation as well as maintenance and optimization of solar systems. In short, if you’re looking for a company that can provide you with everything you need in one place, then Suntech might be the perfect fit for you.
Sunnova
Founded in 2007, Taiwan-based Sunnova provides consumers with a completely online solar shopping experience. Customers can log on to the web site, browse through a large catalog of over 4,000 products, and make a purchase using their credit card. Sunnova also accepts PayPal as a form of payment, making it easier for customers to purchase and own their own solar energy system. With over 150,000 subscribers to its Energy Efficiency newsletter, Sunnova is widely recognized as one of the largest and most reputable solar companies in the world. The company also has offices in Germany, Taiwan, and the UK, and generates sales in over 150 countries worldwide.
Tesla
Located in Palo Alto, California, Tesla is the world’s largest producer and distributor of electric cars and energy products. Founded in 2003 by brothers Elon and Joseph, Tesla Motors manufactures and sells a line of electric cars, including the Model S, X, and 3. In addition to its car division, Tesla also produces and distributes renewable energy products, including the Powerwall and Solar Roof. As well as cars and solar power, the company also develops and supplies battery packs for use in electric bikes, scooters, and other two-wheelers, and on the water jet skis the Eco-Tourism industry is growing, employing thousands of people and boosting economies in developing countries.
Fresnobee
Fresnobee is a solar roofing tiles manufacturer whose proprietary thermal laminate technology makes their products completely waterproof and highly durable. The Spanish company was established in 2010 and currently has a market share of nearly 35% in Europe. In addition to waterproofing, thermal lamination also enhances solar energy absorption by providing a built-in surface for solar cells. Fresnobee’s proprietary material is also recyclable, making it a more sustainable solution than traditional roof tiles. If you’re interested in purchasing a product that is both eco-friendly and efficient, then Fresnobee might be the perfect fit for you.
Mikimoto
Mikimoto is a leading worldwide supplier of natural pearls, creating luxurious pearl jewellery and accessories, as well as providing services including design and manufacture of bespoke pieces and setting gems and diamonds. Mikimoto Kokichi developed cultured pearl jewelry in Tokyo in 1914 and subsequently opened his first shop, Mikimoto Kokichi Tokyo, in 1919. Today, his grandson, Mikimoto Koji, continues to run the company. In 1941, Mikimoto was the first to recognize the unique beauty of the Maltese, a breed of dog, and began using them in his designs. It was not until 1967 that the breed would become so fashionable that it would be known as ‘the jewellery dog’. If you adore jewels and own a dog, then Mikimoto might be the perfect fit for you.
Each of these companies is a perfect fit for a different type of investor. If you want to purchase solar power equipment, then Hanwha Solar Holdings and Sunnova are excellent choices, as they provide everything necessary in one place. If your investment priority is elsewhere, then you might want to consider investing in one of the car companies, Tesla, or even one of the oil companies, as they also have the potential to provide incredible returns on investment. Finally, if you’d like to buy a pearl ring for your wife, girlfriend, or mother, then Mikimoto is the company to go to.