First Solar's Future: Bright or Dim?

Solar stocks, along with shares of other alternative energy mediums, are currently being sold as "the next big thing" in the stock market.<!--more--> Whenever a stock or industry is touted as such an investment, be cautious.

One day, solar energy may make up a meaningful proportion of energy generation in this company, however, even with the advances that companies are making, it still makes no economic sense to choose solar over another power medium. Even in a very sunny area like Odessa, Texas, solar panels generate a very unattractive return on investment. According to BP's (BP) website, a 6kW fixture would generate enough power to cover the average home's yearly use (about 9,000 kWh) would cost $49,000.