First Solar Stock Surges on Raised Sales Forecast

First Solar (FSLR) shares rallied more than 5% after the solar manufacturer beat earnings estimates and lifted its full-year revenue guidance. The Tempe-based company posted Q2 EPS of $3.18 on $1.1 billion in sales, surpassing Visible Alpha consensus estimates of $2.66 and $1.05 billion respectively.

The firm raised its 2025 sales outlook to $4.9-$5.7 billion from $4.5-$5.5 billion, citing strengthened competitive positioning in utility-scale solar. "Our cost-competitive energy solutions and faster deployment capabilities make solar compelling regardless of policy shifts," CEO Mark Widmar noted during the earnings call.

The stock's MOVE into positive territory for 2024 reflects growing institutional confidence in utility-scale renewable energy providers. First Solar's performance contrasts with recent volatility in residential solar stocks, highlighting diverging trajectories within the sector.