Solar powers Brazil’s World Cup
The countdown for the largest, costliest and arguably most controversial World Cup tournament to date has started and football fans are looking forward to Thursday’s opening ceremony and inaugural match between host nation Brazil and Croatia at the Arena de Sao Paulo.
Cyprus to expand PV via net metering
The Mediterranean country is launching a second net metering program after a strong response to a similiar initiative last year. Despite broad support for renewable energy, the nation’s limited grid remains a problem for future expansion of renewables.
Turkey secures $350 million renewable energy loan
While the Turkish government is on track to build its first nuclear power plant and a massive new coal-fired facility, the World Bank sees great “renewable potential” in the country.
Foresight fund secures £100 million to purchase UK solar farms
The solar asset manager expects to double its operational capacity in the U.K. in the next twelve months to some 200 MW. It’s latest acquisition includes the 37 MW Kencot, Oxfordshire, PV farm.
Brazil to hold first federal PV auction this year
The PV sector is heating up in Brazil, where developers remain excited about the country’s growing electricity demand as solar becomes increasingly competitive with other sources of renewable energy.
Romania adds 850 MW in past eight months despite incentive cuts
The country is also increasingly working with Turkey on a number of ambitious energy projects, including a plans to build 1 GW of capacity and a 450-kilometer-long submarine electricity line connecting the two countries.
Greece amends retroactive FIT cuts; leaves solar PV sector divided
MPs to vote on amended PV bill over the weekend as Greek solar agencies squabble over industry’s future.
Israel’s Parliament installs rooftop PV, applies net-metering innovation
The Parliament building has announced a tender for a 400 kW rooftop installation that will make it the greenest government HQ in the world.
Japan proposes new FITs, unveils lithium-ion battery subsidies
The Japanese government is expected to approve recommendations to slightly reduce PV FIT levels while introducing a new subsidy program for battery storage systems.
Greece brings new retroactive measures; cuts FIT by 30%
After a prolonged delay, the Greek government published anticipated new retroactive measures last Friday. On average, the new measures slash FITs of operating PV plants by 30%.
