Solar the key to progress on global access to electricity
A tracking report from five major international agencies finds the world is lagging behind sustainable development goals for 2030. While more effort is needed to reach some of the world’s poorest populations, though, notable progress has been made in reducing the electrification deficit, thanks to off-grid solar and minigrids.
Scatec Solar inks strategic collaboration deal over 485 MW of solar in Vietnam
Scatec wants to expand in Southeast Asia and Vietnam is poised to become a hot market thanks to a generous feed-in tariff and a government that has set tight carbon emission targets.
Portugal to launch second 700 MW solar auction in January
While preparing for the country’s first, 1.35 GW solar tender in June, state secretary for energy João Galamba has revealed another procurement exercise will be held in January and rejected criticism next month’s auction has been badly designed.
Electric vehicles help slash payback periods for residential PV
The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis has estimated the effect on the payback period of PV systems when adding EVs and storage in Germany and Britain. In both cases, system owners are likely to reduce their payback period by significant margins as increased self-consumption can offset the incremental phase out of government incentives.
California’s Solar Bill of Rights has been gutted by lawmakers
What was originally a landmark bill to establish rights for the owners of PV systems has made it to the floor of the California Senate in a dramatically reduced form.
EU Council of Ministers gives final green light on clean energy package
Long awaited – and even longer debated – the 1000 pages of legislation have finally been adopted by all EU institutions. Over the coming 18 months, there will be changes, some big, some small, to the markets in Europe. Across the continent, the renewable energy industry is likely to benefit.
Lebanon’s Tufail region may host planned 500 MW solar plant
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is seeking consultants for a feasibility study for the project. The plant would be constructed on land owned by the Banque du Liban.
Off-grid solution for Haiti electrification to receive $17 million funding
The government of Haiti and the World Bank have put in place a financial instrument to provide access to capital for companies active in clean off-grid energy solutions. The aim is to power 200,000 households over 10 years.
Overseas developers rallying to invest in Bangladeshi solar
Big names in the running for 45-55 MW project in Chittagong as developers scramble to take advantage of an income tax exemption for clean energy investment that is due to expire this year.
GCL wants to sell 977 MW solar portfolio to pay down debt
The Hong Kong listed polysilicon manufacturer is selling off solar assets to fund its thirst for production capacity expansion. The proposed sale would net the company almost $290 million to reduce its debt pile.
