What to Watch on Wall Street This Week: Future of Solar, Gizmos

You can never know in advance all the news that will move the market in a given week, but some things you can see coming. From the country's leading warehouse club operator providing a glimpse into our bulk-shopping ways to a long list of solar energy companies hoping to brighten the portfolios of their investors, here are some things that will help shape the week that lies ahead on Wall Street.

Monday -- Let the Sun Shine

Solar power is a logical green energy solution, but it's still not economically feasible for a lot of homes and even commercial buildings. SolarCity (SCTY) is trying to change that, offering panel installations that are financed at rates that translate into installment plans that are comparable to electricity and other energy solutions.

SolarCity reports Monday, but it's not the only company trying to harness the sun for juice that will be reporting this week. Component makers stepping up with quarterly results include JinkoSolar (JKS) on Monday, Trina Solar (TSL) on Tuesday and Canadian Solar (CSIQ) on Wednesday. Take them all into account and we'll have a good snapshot on the state of solar energy.

Tuesday -- Back to the Future

RadioShack (RSH) had one of last month's most memorable Super Bowl commercials, playing up how the small-box retailer of consumer electronics was so much more relevant three decades ago.

"The '80s called," the ad begins. "They want their store back." The spot then features iconic characters from the era, including Alf, Mary Lou Retton and Hulk Hogan as they strip the store clean.

If only it was that easy to remake a struggling concept. Sales have been sliding at the chain, and profitability doesn't seem to be anywhere in sight. RadioShack's plan to transform itself in a store emphasizing mobile phones and other wireless gadgetry and services hasn't translated into success.

Wednesday -- Bark Place

PetSmart (PETM) reports Wednesday, and analysts see the seller of pet supplies and provider of pet grooming, boarding, and basic veterinary services posting slight dips in sales and earnings for the holiday quarter. %VIRTUAL-article-sponsoredlinks%The good news here is that PetSmart has posted better than expected bottom-line results in each of the past four quarters. It hasn't been by much, but with Wall Street eyeing $1.21 a share in profitability after it rang up earnings of $1.24 a share it won't take much of a beat to push net income in the right direction.

Thursday -- Savings in Bulk

Warehouse clubs have grown in popularity as shoppers overlook the exposed beams and dreary decor in pursuit of significant savings on bulk-sized product purchases. Costco Wholesale (COST) is the industry darling, and it reports Thursday.

Supermarket giant Kroger (KR) also reports Thursday, affording investors the opportunity to contrast a traditional grocer with a warehouse club.

Friday -- In the Race

Athletic footwear has been a resilient market as more people embrace healthy lifestyles that typically require comfortable shoes. Foot Locker (FL) has been a strong performer, hitting a fresh 52-week high last week. Foot Locker closes out the trading week with its quarterly report on Friday morning. Analysts see modest 3 percent growth in sales, but they also see even healthier earnings growth. Either way, Foot Locker investors know that investing isn't a sprint. It's a marathon.

Motley Fool contributor Rick Munarriz has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Costco Wholesale, PetSmart and SolarCity. The Motley Fool owns shares of Costco Wholesale and SolarCity.