Italy: 6 billion FIT limit almost reached; accusations of PV fraud arise
There are fears that the 6 billion set aside for Italys solar market until 2016 could run out next year. Data has also emerged, which indicates that over 200 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic installations have been removed from the Conto Energia II in just one week. GIFI president, Valerio Natalizia talks to pv magazine.
Middle Eastern solar market is simmering
In the Middle East, the transition to solar energy has begun, but the pace and momentum of the transition will be influenced by policy that was the key takeaway from the Solar Investment Summit – Middle East, held in Dubai from October 26 to 27.
REC announces permanent PV closures on back of negative Q3 results
The Renewable Energy Corporation (REC) has officially announced the permanent closure of three of its photovoltaic production plants in Norway. The company has also reported negative third quarter (Q3) financial results.
Lukoil plans Uzbekistans largest solar project
Russian oil giant, Lukoil is planning a 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Uzbekistan, a former Soviet state located in Central Asia. Plans to establish a National Institute for Solar Energy in the country are also underway.
NREL develops "game-changing" solar cell furnace
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has developed what it says is a “game-changing” furnace for the solar cell industry.
Aurubis to close CIS factory
Europes biggest copper refiner and recycler, Aurubis AG, is taking a step back from its solar activities. As such, CIS Solartechnik GmbH will close down by the end of the year.
Italy: PV installations declining due to revoked permits
The number of photovoltaic installations in Italy is reportedly declining due to fraudulent activity. As such, investment risk in the country is said to be increasing.
Suntech responds to solar trade petition
UPDATE: Yingli responds as well to petition.
The Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing’s petition protesting against Chinese photovoltaic manufacturers’ supposed dumping prices has sparked a response from Chinese manufacturing giant Suntech Power Holdings.
25 MW prison-ground plants
SunEdison has begun construction on a series of photovoltaic power plants, in partnership with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). In total the four plants will be worth 25 megawatts (MW) and will be located on CDCR grounds.
SPI: Thunderclouds over Dallas
With mixed results, Solar Power International (SPI) came to a close yesterday in Dallas. Although with a total of 1,200 exhibitors a new record was reached, only 21,000 visitors attended, a decline on the previous year.
