The weekend read: Solar’s farming synergy
With the U.K. government apparently preparing to deal another blow to solar by abolishing export payments for small-scale generators, the contribution of the country’s agricultural sector to the industry could be more important than ever.
Germany reaches 270 MW of PV installations in July
While installations up to 750 kW continue to grow, compared to June, overall capacity slightly decreased. This is due to the fact less utility-scale projects were commissioned in July, compared to the preceding month. Solar subsidies will decrease by another percentage point in September.
Greece’s net metering installation figures disappoint
While the Greek Government is in the midst of rolling out a successful series of solar tenders, pv magazine examines the country’s net metering scheme, which was introduced in 2014.
US: Ohio business community backs 2.2 GW of Ohio solar
Speaking the language of manufacturing, employment, and economic opportunity, five prominent corporations have backed a 2.2 gigawatt solar goal for Ohio by 2030.
Nearly 8 GW of Indian solar projects receive 6 month extension – MNRE
To ensure their continued viability, nearly 8 GW of solar PV projects have been granted an extension by the Ministry of New and renewable Energy (MNRE).
Lion Point Capital offers $250m to support Canadian Solar’s go-private bid
Shares of Canadian Solar soared earlier this week after U.S. investment firm Lion Point Capital revealed that it had initiated discussions with a number of undisclosed third parties about the possibility of funding the privatization of the solar PV module supplier.
Solar industry rejects UK government plan to end FIT, export tariff schemes
In consultations in late July this year, the U.K. Government proposed ending both the feed-in tariff (FIT) and export tariff schemes. The policy changes would end financial compensation for prosumers feeding electricity into the grid. In a letter, the industry, including major utilities like Eon and Ovo Energy, voiced their clear rejection of the plan.
India: Historic low tariff for 35 MW rooftop solar tender
The recent 35.29 MW rooftop solar tender, floated by Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVNL) hit a historic low tariff of Rs. 1.58 (US$0.022) per unit. Overall, it attracted 31 bidders, and was oversubscribed by 630%.
Swedish school installs saltwater battery, highlights environmental benefits
Saltwater batteries can be fully recycled receiving a “cradle to cradle” certificate, and don’t contain lead or lithium. For some, this prevails over the disadvantages of saltwater batteries being considerably bigger and heavier, as well as having a lower discharging current than lithium-ion batteries.
USTDA awards grant for 100 MW solar+storage project in Mozambique
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has awarded a US$1.2 million grant for a feasibility study assessing the viability of an up to 100 MW solar PV plant, coupled with storage, in Mozambique.
