In regard to loan value it is overly simple to only look at the value to government in getting loan repayment back. Think of the tax revenues they got from the employees, the industries built to support these companies etc. So even when Solyendra didnt pay back the loan the govt has probably seen a fair wack of money come back in other routes to offset the loan loss. And if Tesla succeeds they will see many billions flowing back in taxes from the company itself, employees and the industries that work with tesla. Much more than any amount loaned.