So far in 2011, the Claymore/MAC Global Solar Index ETF (TAN) has shot up by an impressive 18%, while the broad market has climbed up by almost 6%. What happened to the bearish sentiment, the falling subsidies, the rush away from clean energy stocks? That attitude seems to be gone, at least for the moment, and in its place is cautious optimism.
An upgrade doesn't hurt
Although the entire sector could arguably look attractive, there's one company in particular that I've always favored, and that's First Solar
In addition, UBS Investment Research came out with information saying that California's renewable energy portfolio standard could rise from 20% to 33% in the near future, a move that would certainly help U.S.-based solar providers. Companies such as First Solar and SunPower
Recent activity is increasing
In an industry like this, which was (and is) still pretty dependent on foreign subsidies, any activity is seen as a huge plus. SunTech Power
This year First Solar has shot up by 27%, which might scare some investors away. But considering the fact that peers ReneSola
It might just be that investors got a little too caught up in the subsidy cuts in Germany and will be pleasantly surprised by markets in Italy and the U.S.
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