The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) recently released their 2009 U.S. Solar Industry Year in Review. Despite recessionary pressures that plagued the overall economy, solar continued on its impressive growth track, with U.S. solar capacity adding 37% onto its 2008 capacity. Solar power in the U.S. is now a $4 billion industry as it continues to gain mainstream adoption.
Though venture capital funding for solar dropped sharply in 2009 — as it did across the board for most sectors — we are beginning to see capital inflow again in 2010. Just two weeks ago, concentrated photovoltaic manufacturer Amonix completed a colossal $129.4 million round of funding led by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers. As the economy recovers, we can expect to see more deals of this sort as investors jump aboard the solar growth train.
