At some point solar has to prove it is economically sustainable without government subsidies. When that happens, it will be able to start the path to maturity.

What does the run rate look like over the next 5 yrs. assuming the solar industry hits 286,000 workers by the end of the year?

The "thing" that could happen to derail solar power is the realization of where solar power panels (and constituent components) are manufactured. While solar power is 'on site' clean, the manufacturing of solar panels is dirty...using coal fired generators.

There is no reason panels have to be using cola fred power though, and I have a feeling the new Solarcity panel factory will be powered by clean power, including panels on the roof.

Quite true, but the facts are that solar panel components are predominantly manufactured in China...coal fired plants.

Coupled with the manufacturing requirements of chemical use in manufacturing, solar panels may be clean in Arizona, but leave an abundantly dirty trail of air, water soil...and people...behind. This "realization"...the thing...could derail solar power.

If the Solar Power industry wishes to continue its widespread acceptance amongst the world, this "dirty trail" must be addressed. Transferring America's coal fired footprint onto China is hardly an approach to "clean" energy production.

Very true. Kind of like Leonardo Dicaprio preaching about being green but having the carbon footprint of a small country. You got to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.

1% is NOT a mature industry. Solar is barely off the ground. It needs to grow about 60 to 100 times. it has to do that in 30 years or less, or it won't even be replacement rate. Energy needs are expected to double, so that's 120 to 200 times over 30 years minimum.

Agree that it is not a mature industry, but it is growing up incredibly fast.

I hope it keeps growing super fast. It should, but the fossil and nuclear industry are win some battles to stop it.