Whole 1 GW Blythe project to convert to PV
It seems likely that the entire one GW Blythe Solar Power Project (BSPP) will use photovoltaic technology instead of solar thermal. The cost competitiveness of photovoltaics is said to be a key reason.
Grid storage costs to decrease
Lux Research has released a forecast that expects lithium-ion and molten-salt battery costs to fall to US$500/kWh by 2022. This is predicted to bring down the high capital cost of emerging grid storage technologies. However, it is still double the target of US$250/kWh.
Chile: Solarpack to build 25 MW PV project
Spain-based Solarpack has won a contract to build, develop and manage two photovoltaic plants worth 25 MW in the Tarapacá region of Chile.
Nevada: 20 MW project acquired by Ted Turner and Southern Company
Through a strategic alliance, formed in 2010, Turner Renewable Energy and Southern Company have acquired a 20 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic power plant in Nevada. The plant was built by SunEdison and will be completed during the third quarter of 2012.
Australia: Carbon tax kicks in while 250 MW CSP project in doubt
On July 1 Australias new tax on carbon emissions came into effect, in the face of major opposition from conservative parties and public opposition. At the same time the new conservative Liberal-National Government in the state of Queensland has threatened to withdraw support for the Solar Dawn concentrated solar power (CSP) project.
Bulgaria unveils sharp PV cuts
According to reports, the Bulgarian energy regulator has cut subsidies for photovoltaics by around 50 percent amid fears of escalating electricity prices.
First modules installed at 230 MW AVSR1 site
Having overcome two major hurdles, the first modules have finally been installed at the 230 MW Antelope Valley Solar Ranch One (AVSR1) plant, located in Los Angeles County. The whole project is scheduled for completion in 2013.
Emerson supplies inverters to 70 MW PV project in California
Emerson has been selected to supply its inverters to two of China-based GCL-Polys photovoltaic projects, located in California, the U.S.
Germany finally compromises on PV subsidies
Germanys federal and state governments have agreed to a phasing out of funding and cuts in the countrys photovoltaic feed-in tariffs. It is expected that the Bundestag and Bundesrat will discuss and make a decision on the compromise this week.
Germany: Bundestag approves new PV subsidy program
The Bundestag has accepted the new EEG (renewable energy law), just hours after Germanys mediation committee reached a compromise on photovoltaic subsidies. Only the Left abstained, as all other parties voted in favor of it.
