2013 is set to see increased photovoltaics support in Poland. While many expect the new law – and generous subsidies – to boost the country’s solar industry, there are already fears the government’s conservative capacity estimates could cause the kind of boom and bust cycle seen in markets like Spain and the Czech Republic. The questions on everyone’s lips are: will the law come into force as planned; and is the government adequately prepared for the anticipated uptake?

Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd’s preliminary results for Q2 2012 include a gross margin significantly below its original guidance, and increased operating expenses. Although shipments and revenues were said to have increased, it has decreased its FY shipping guidance. Meanwhile, in response to allegations over GSE’s business in Italy, the company has denied any wrongdoing.

During a visit to Beijing, the German Chancellor sought to find a political solution to the anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) dispute involving China’s photovoltaic manufacturers.

According to media reports, criminal charges have been filed in Italy against the Global Solar Fund, S.C.A., Sicar (GSF). It is claimed the company “illegally” built solar farms in the country in order to take advantage of available subsidies. The trial is scheduled to begin on December 6.

Yesterday’s meeting at the German chancellery offered little in the way of tangible results. It was only agreed that the development of renewables should be curbed, the EEG reformed and the industry relieved. Representatives of the photovoltaic and wind associations were not, however, invited to participate.

According to reports, 47 representatives at the insolvent Q.Cells SE are currently deciding whether South Korea’s Hanwha, or Spain-based Isofotón will get to take the German company over. When the decision will be reached is not yet known.

Poland’s state-run National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFEPWM) has announced it will add a further PLN 150 million (€36.5 million) to its grant program aimed at Polish households that purchase photovoltaic modules.

Following the news that Spain-based Isofotón had also submitted a bid to take Germany’s Q.Cells over, pv magazine has learned that if the offer is accepted, it will invest €300 million in Q.Cells’ businesses. Under 10% of the workforce would also be cut.

Italy’s new guidelines for photovoltaic subsidies have been in place since Monday, August 27. While system operators will have to adapt to much lower tariffs and changing requirements, it is believed the new funding under the Conto Energia V will only last until the end of 1H 2013.

A 21-page policy paper on energy released by presumptive U.S. GOP Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney in advance of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida, next week is predicated more on “what lies beneath” than on “all of the above.”