2. Because First Solar sells a product that is important to sustainability, does that mean its stock might be considered to have added value? First Solar Inc. has been working to perfect an affordable alternative to fossil fuels since 1999. By tapping into solar energy, First Solar has more than $6 billion in contracts to provide solar project developers, system integrators, and public utilities with its cadmium telluride solar cells and pan- els. Much of First Solar's early business focused on Germany, which is the world's leader in solar power, however, it is growing rapidly in the United States as well. While it may be obvious that a company devoted to devel- oping alternative and renewable energy products would be committed to the environment, First Solar surpasses many of its peers. Solar energy conserves natural resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. However, many compa- nies use perfluorinated gases such as nitrogen triflouride, which emit high levels of greenhouse gas, to manufacture solar cells. First Solar does not use these gases, focusing instead on less harmful options. The company also manages the entire life cycle of its products, from raw material sourc- ing through the collection and recycling of old products.