The big gorilla Goldman Sachs (GS) has finally begun covering the solar sector and initiated coverage of the US solar sector with a Neutral rating and initiated coverage on a few of the largest solar companies too. Hat tip to Street Insider for the heads up on these ratings this morning.

It begins First Solar (FSLR) coverage with a Buy rating and $150 price target. They view the increased exposure to the US utility scale market as a significant positive.

SunPower (SPWRA) is initiated with a Neutral rating and a $15 price target.

MEMC Electronic Materials (WFR) is initiated with a Sell rating and $9 price target. Goldman sees more risk than reward amid a sub-peer margin recovery, lower returns due to a more capital-intensive business mix and an elevated valuation.

Image Credit: cetindia.org

Reprinted with permission from Green Stocks Central