The demand for silicon is prompting investments in new technologies that can efficiently manufacture solar cells. Demand for solar-grade silicon is expected to outpace supply for the next 2 to five years, according to the Australian.

Applied Ventures (the investment company funded by Applied Materials) gave $3 million to solar manufacturing company Solaicx, which will use the money to open a new plant next year. Solaicx says its continuous Czochralski (CZ) crystal growing methodology is up to five times more productive than systems designed for semiconductor silicon.

In Norway, Elkem Solar is investing $1 billion in a new production plant in Kristiansand, according to the Norway Post. The facility will produce 5,000 tons of solar grade silicon per year, and a new manufacturing process will require less energy.

Investing in silicon solar cell manufacturers -- whether old or new technology -- is almost a sure bet today.