NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - Apr 18, 2012) - The U.S. is once again the global leader in private financing and investment in clean energy according to a recent report released by Pew Charitable Trusts. In 2011, the U.S. attracted $48 billion in clean energy investment. Despite large investment in the industry, clean energy stocks in the U.S. have plummeted. The PowerShares WilderHill Clean Energy ETF (PBW) is down more than 47% over the last year. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Alternative Energy Sector and provides equity research on First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: [ FSLR ]) and JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: [ JASO ]).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

[ www.FiveStarEquities.com/FSLR ]

[ www.FiveStarEquities.com/JASO ]

"In 2011, the global clean energy sector grew again, the U.S. reclaimed its lead as the top destination for private investment, and consumers reaped the rewards of significantly reduced prices for clean energy technologies, such as solar panels, which are now nearly 50 percent cheaper than a year ago," said Phyllis Cuttino, director of Pew's Clean Energy Program. "And yet, the yo-yo effect of U.S. clean energy policy hurts the ability of the United States to consistently compete and turn U.S.-led innovation into manufacturing, deployment, and export opportunities. Creative, stable and transparent policies remain a critical signal to private investors."

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the Alternative Energy Sector so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at [ www.FiveStarEquities.com ] and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

First Solar, Inc. recently announced it is restructuring its operations in response to deteriorating market conditions in Europe and to reduce costs and align its organization with sustainable market opportunities. As part of this program, First Solar will close its manufacturing operations in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany, in the fourth quarter of 2012. Additionally, the Company will indefinitely idle four production lines at its manufacturing center in Kulim, Malaysia, on May 1, 2012. These actions, combined with other personnel reductions in Europe and the U.S., will reduce First Solar's global workforce by approximately 2,000 positions, about 30 percent of the total.

JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. announced its unaudited financial results for its fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2011. Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2011 was RMB 1.95 billion ($309.1 million), a decrease of 21.4% from RMB 2.5 billion ($393.2 million) reported in the third quarter of 2011 and a decrease of 49.5% from RMB 3.9 billion ($612.7 million) reported in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at:
[ www.FiveStarEquities.com/disclaimer ]