Germany's solar companies are starting to move out of Germany. Solon AG fuer Solartechnik (SOO1 GY) gained 1.8 euros, or 6.4 percent, to 29.8 euros on news of their plan to buy up to 20 percent in Australia's CBD Energy Ltd. This would cost as much as 3 million euros and Solon's aim is to co-operate with CBD Energy as a turn-key contractor in implementing CO2-free power plant projects in Australia.

All alternative energy in Australia faces one enormous hurdle - the world's cheapest coal. So even though solar has great natural advantages in Oz it will need support still to succeed - just like most other countries.