Sandra Enkhardt
Ikea extends PV module offer to Germany
Starting from October, the Swedish furniture provider will start a test phase at five of its branches in Germany. A nationwide online sale of the “Solstrale” offer is planned to begin next February.
Wacker still waiting for expiry of minimum prices for polysilicon in China
The Munich-based chemical group believes that the Chinese Ministry of Commerce may make a decision at the end of October. Wacker’s U.S. plant is still in the start-up phase following a temporary shutdown due to an explosion.
Oxford PV, Oxford University target 37% efficient perovskite solar cells
The solar company has launched a five-year research project with the British scientists, which has been funded with £2.5 million from the U.K. Government. The goal is to develop a thin film multi-junction perovskite solar cell with a 37% efficiency and long-term stability.
Manufacturers and research institutes form alliance in Europe
The European Solar Manufacturing Council has been launched at EU PVSEC in Brussels. Participating research institutes, mechanical engineers, material and PV manufacturers stress the importance of having big solar manufacturers in Europe.
VDMA: thin-film revives business of German PV equipment suppliers
Photovoltaic manufacturers across the world are currently investing mainly in thin-film production plants. The German PV equipment providers benefit greatly from this new trend.
Solar all set for another record in Germany
Around 40 billion kWh of clean electricity will be generated by PV systems in Germany during the first nine months of the year. According to calculations by the German Solar Industry Association, the total generation figure from last year will soon be reached.
Recom to increase production capacity by 1 GW
The German module manufacturer is planning a further expansion of capacity in Europe. In France and Armenia, new production lines for solar cells and modules are planned to start this year.
PVP4Grid examines prosumer concepts across Europe
The EU-funded research project has presented its first results. Its goal is to examine different regulatory frameworks for prosumers with photovoltaic systems in eight European countries.
Germany launches second wind-solar auction
Bids can be submitted to the German grid authority, Bundesnetzagentur until November 2, 2018. Solar accounted for all winning bids in the first round.
SolarWorld halts production in Germany as raw materials run out
According to the company’s insolvency administrator it is unlikely negotiations with potential investors will generate concrete results this month. Module production has been suspended at Freiberg with employees relocated to a transfer company.
