Germany: Bundestag and Bundesrat remain divided over FITS issue
The mediation committee between the German Bundestag and the Bundesrat for solar promotion – set up to find a compromise regarding the issue of feed-in tariffs (FITs) – failed to reach a consensus after meeting for the first time yesterday.
Spanish associations still struggling with government over FITs
Until now, the Spanish photovoltaics associations have not been able to come to a compromise in terms of the planned reductions of feed-in tariffs. Negotiations were held between the parties yesterday.
BP oil spill a "wake-up call" for solar industry
The Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA) has said that the BP oil spill has been a “wake-up call” for the industry to develop clean energy sources, like solar.
Spain plans to reduce payment rates for existing facilities by 30 percent
During a controversial closed meeting held today, Spains Industry Minister, Miguel Sebastian informed industry associations that from July 1 remuneration rates for existing photovoltaics plants could be drastically reduced.
World's first hybrid solar facility to use aluminum frames
Hydro’s Extrusion Americas unit has signed an agreement with Florida Power & Light (FPL) to supply custom aluminum extrusions for the first hybrid solar/fossil fuel energy generating facility in the world. When it comes online later this year, the Martin Next Generation Solar Energy Center will produce 75 megawatts (MW). It will be the world’s second-largest solar plant and the largest outside of California.
Pilot project evaluating smart solar energy systems underway
A pilot project evaluating smart solar energy systems mounted on utility and streetlight poles has been announced by Tampa Electric Company.
Spain to cut PV premiums
A controversial proposal to cut renewable energy premiums in Spain has been reported by the countrys financial newspaper, Cinco Dias.
China Sunergy announces acquisition of 2 solar module manufacturers
China Sunergy Co., Ltd. has announced an agreement to acquire 100 percent of the shares of two related module manufacturers, CEEG (Shanghai) Solar Science & Technology Co., Ltd and CEEG (Nan Jing) New Energy Co., Ltd.
Egypt's first solar plant to open by year's end
Egyptian electricity and energy minister Hassan Yunis has said Egypt will open its first solar energy plant by the end of this year, according to AFP.
Munro Solar completes one of Massachusetts' largest single solar arrays
One of the largest single solar arrays in Massachusetts, the U.S. has been completed. The new installation is expected to save over USD$1.2 million in energy costs.
