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Japan brightens solar firms’ day

Tempe, Ariz.-based First Solar is the largest maker of thin-film panels. Above, the roof of its plant in Germany.

patrick pleul/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

Tempe, Ariz.-based First Solar is the largest maker of thin-film panels. Above, the roof of its plant in Germany.

First Solar Inc. and other solar manufacturers rose after Japan approved subsidies that will encourage at least $9.6 billion worth of new installations. The Bloomberg Industries Global Large Solar Energy Index of 17 companies rose 2 percent to $12.77. Japan’s subsidies are apt to spur 3.2 gigawatts of installations, with output equivalent to three nuclear reactors.