One of the many challenges concerning environmental and industrial issues in the world today is determining how to curb adverse effects of gas emissions that cause global warming.  With the advent of modern technology and discoveries, alternative energy sources are being utilized to meet environmental and industrial needs.

Among the alternative sources of energy gaining popularity are photovoltaic (PV), or solar cells, used to convert sunlight into electricity.  These cells are semiconductor devices that require less maintenance, cause no pollution, operate silently and produce electricity with constant exposure to the sun.

Energy Conversion Devices Inc. commercializes materials, products and production processes for the alternative energy generation, energy storage and information technology markets.  It has strategically captured broad market exposure with its operations in the United States, Germany, China, Japan, Italy and internationally.

Semiconductors play a vital role in modern technology.  The present framework of the technological sector treats semiconductor as an indispensable component in the manufacturing process of devices ranging from computers to cell phones to digital audio players.  According to a report in Electronics.Ca Publications, worldwide semiconductor revenue is expected to grow by 2.4 percent in 2008 to $261.9 billion; and 7.4 percent in 2009.  For 2010, revenue is expected to break through the $300 billion barrier reaching $308.8 billion. 

ON Semiconductor Corporation (ONNN) has positioned itself to capitalize on the booming industry, engaging in the design, manufacture and marketing of power and data management semiconductors, and for standard semiconductor components worldwide.

The company recently released first-quarter results, surpassing Wall Street expectations and sending shares up the chart. After the announcement Wednesday, shares of ON Semiconductor surged $1.59, or 20 percent, to $9.40.

Confidence in the U.S. commercial real estate industry remains strong despite a softening economy and turmoil in the capital markets.  People purchase real estate either as mere ownership or as an investment; however, a report by the 2008 Real Estate Investor Outlook reveals that availability and cost of financing moved up as the top concern for 2008.  This poses a timely opportunity for real estate financing firms. 

RAIT Investment Trust operates as a self-managed and self-advised real estate investment trust (REIT).  Through its subsidiaries, the company provides a set of debt financing options to the real estate industry in the United States and Europe.

Shares of RAIT Investment recently surged after the company reported a higher profit in the first quarter.  The company earned $133.5 million, or $2.14 per share, in the first quarter, compared with profit of $20.3 million, or 34 cents per share, for the first quarter last year.