SoloPower solar collector

SoloPower is another thin-film solar company founded in Silicon Valley that is awaiting word from the Department of Energy on a loan guarantee. The company is seeking a loan, private money, and incentives from municipal government to build a plant able to turn out 100 megawatts' worth of solar collectors a year.

The company's product is somewhat unique in that the solar cells can be placed onto a flexible backing. That allows for quick installation, particularly on flat commercial rooftops.