Daqo increases profitability, revenues as plans to double polysilicon capacity move forward
The Chinese polysilicon and wafer maker has reported very strong second quarter results on higher polysilicon selling prices and lower production costs. Daqo also raised US$54.6 million during the quarter to support a doubling of its production capacity.
Mexican energy reforms to benefit solar
Sweeping energy reforms signed into law this week include multiple changes to the electricity sector, many of which favor solar and other renewable energies.
Canadian Solar reports very strong Q2 results on record shipments
The Canadian-Chinese module maker and developer grew its revenues and margins during the second quarter, with record PV module shipments of 646 MW. Canadian Solar also has a strong project pipeline going forward.
Brazilian local content rules could spur domestic industry
In an effort to shore up local PV manufacturing, Brazil’s development bank has set local content requirements for solar projects which it will finance in Brazil’s first national solar-only auction.
GT secures key certifications for Merlin interconnection technology
The U.S. equipment maker has secured three certifications which will enable modules produced using its Merlin copper mesh interconnection technology to be used in PV systems. GT plans to commercially roll out Merlin in 2015.
Japanese PV market booms: over 1 GW-AC put online in April, 10-12 GW-AC predicted for 2014
Japan’s solar market is continuing to grow, with more projects coming online in 2014, according to new data and projections from Bloomberg New Energy Finance. The company expects Japan to commission between 10.3 and 11.9 GW of solar PV during 2014.
BNEF: Solar poised for rapid growth in Mexico and Central America
Bloomberg New Energy Finance has presented a new report which finds that investments in solar slumped in the region in the first half of 2014, after booming in 2012 and 2013. However, the company notes strong drivers and policy momentum in both markets, and expects rapid growth across the region.
SunEdison shows strong growth in Q2 2014, supported by yieldco launch
The solar developer’s revenue grew 62% year-over-year in Q2 2014, and SunEdison ended the quarter with 475 MW of projects under construction. More importantly, the company held its yieldco IPO in July, as it moves towards a model of holding projects instead of selling them.
PACE returns: 17 counties launch clean energy funding programs in California
Enabled by legislation at the state level, counties across California have launched property assessed clean energy (PACE) programs. This represents a revival for PACE, a promising mechanism for property owners to finance solar systems and energy efficiency improvements, and the program administrator expects CaliforniaFirst to support US$250 million in solar PV systems in 2015.
First Solar announces first development project in India
While First Solar has been the single largest module supplier for the Indian market, with the 45 MW-AC project at two sites in the new state of Telangana the company is moving into project development in the nation as well.
