Solar Power in 2010: Are You Optimistic?

I've been perusing my news feeds lately and have noticed a trend that I thought would start an interesting conversation.  The tone of the news has been a little pessimistic for the industry lately and I wondering if this tone was shared by folks in the Renewable Energy World. 

This article in Forbes.com caught my eye, it states that the future of solar power is cloudy.  It cites companies that have been caught in the manufacturing surplus and their stock performance.  Its a gloomy article and paints a dour picture of the industry, especially those that manufacture solar panels and those looking to invest in the industry.

It's no secret that over-building by module makers has driven prices down and forced a lot companies out of the business.  But this of course makes things more affordable for the end user and an easier sell for installers.  But it got me thinking: what's the overall industry mood these days?

From my perspective, 2009 was definitely a year to be forgotten.  Revenues were stagnant and margins were pinched.  But 2010 so far has been surprisingly good.  A lot of the RFQ's that we did late last year are being awarded and money is flowing.  In fact we're on track for a record year if things hold up.  It seems there has been some pent-up demand out there, customers simply waiting for the doom-and-gloom to lift so they can start spending again.

I have at least 5 major suppliers that have moved into larger facilities to support their growing businesses, and several more that plan to in 2010.  Our success rate in landing projects and order conversion has tripled in the last few months.  We are very much excited for the new year.

So what's your outlook on the solar power industry as the 1st quarter winds down?

Kriss Bergethon is a writer and solar professional from Colorado, for more information please visit Solar Kits.