2018 Technology Highlights: Announcing the winners
After much lively debate, a jury of independent experts pv magazine has selected three top innovations for special recognition in the Technology Highlights feature.
Neo Solar Power increases turnover, reduces losses
On the last stretch to the merger between NSP, Gintech and Solartech, the company still posted losses due to “operational challenges” and solar trade disputes.
Jürgen Stein steps down as SolarWorld Americas CEO
As what may be the first sign of many changes, the President and CEO who led SolarWorld through the Section 201 case is being replaced by a restructuring veteran.
Singulus reports fall in sales and profit
German PV equipment supplier Singulus Technologies has reported a fall in both sales and profit year on year for the first quarter of 2018. The company, however, points out that its order books are full.
Seoul escalates dispute over US solar tariffs with WTO complaint
The South Korean government has announced plans to formally launch a dispute settlement process with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over U.S. tariffs on PV cells, modules and washing machines.
Hanwha Q Cells improves profitability, but revises down 2018 shipment guidance
The solar module manufacturer reports that Europe will likely replace the United States as its number one market, due to the recent introduction of the duties introduced by the Trump administration. Although quarterly revenue grew by around 2.5% year-on year, and net profit almost doubled from $17.6 million to $31 million, the outlook for 2018 shipments has been lowered by 400 MW to 5.6 GW to 5.8 GW.
Meyer Burger sells Solar Systems unit to former board member
The Swiss PV equipment manufacturer will sell the division to Patrik Hofer-Noser. Both sides agreed to keep the purchase price confidential. Nevertheless, Meyer Burger assumes that the sale will result in a loss in the low single-digit million range.
Silver prices to fall by $4/toz by 2030, World Bank says
A recently published report on commodity markets published by the World Bank indicates that the recent decline in commodity prices for silver is likely to continue over the next 10-20 years. The looming trade dispute between the U.S. and China is impeding investor trust, as future outlook remains murky.
Powerfield abandons plans to build 300 MW module factory in the Netherlands
The Dutch company said its project became unviable due to rapidly declining module prices. For its planned solar parks in the Netherlands, however, the company will rely on modules provided by the Dutch panel maker Energyra.
Panasonic, Tesla reveal plan to produce lithium batteries in China
Tesla’s batteries may soon be Made in China. The announcement was made by Panasonic CEO Kazuhiro Tsuga during a conference accompanying the company’s 2018 fiscal-year results.
