As I was quoted today in the Guardian, solar subsidies have had the perverse effect reducing the incentive of solar manufacturers to invest in non-silicon based solar panels. This might have prevented the silicon bull run keeping solar output prices high, whilst reducing their cost to the consumer.

That's why I think there's a lot to be said for solar investors to look at those companies that have eschewed silicon or greatly reduced its input - my guess is that this is a much better long-term bet if the political climate for solar subsidies turns sour.

Companies like Daystar Tech for example or Dyesol.