Record Q4 PV inverter shipments predicted; China to overtake Germany
Global photovoltaic inverter shipments are expected to reach 8.6 GW in Q4 2012, thus representing the “largest final quarter ever recorded”. Despite this, falling inverter prices are predicted to dampen revenues. Meanwhile, in 2013, China is set to become the largest market.
Chile launches online tool to study solar availability
A new online tool that permits solar energy developers to precisely explore the availability of solar resources for the entire territory of continental Chile has been launched by Chiles Ministry of Energy, and the Faculty of Physical Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Chile.
SoloPower opens US CIGS manufacturing facility
SoloPower has officially opened its new CIGS thin film photovoltaics manufacturing facility in Portland, Oregon. It is targeting 400 MW of annual capacity.
Bosch opens second PV module line in France
Bosch has opened a second photovoltaic module line at its manufacturing facility in France, thus taking capacity to 150 MW.
German PV equipment sales continue to decline; stronger cooperation urged
On the back of weakened demand from Asian customers, sales of German photovoltaic equipment have fallen by half in Q2 2012, compared to the same period last year. To maintain competitiveness, cooperation with local industry is urged.
Meyer Burger announces 303 Watt PV module
Using just 60 solar cells, Meyer Burger Technology Ltd has created a 303 W photovoltaic module in production conditions. “Significant” cost reductions are expected to follow.
Solar inverter plant opens in South Africa
Netherlands-based power equipment supplier, 3W Power/AEG Power Solutions, has officially inaugurated its new solar inverter manufacturing facility in South Africa.
Roth & Rau unveils nickel busbars for solar cells
Germanys Roth & Rau has developed a new concept for the metallization of solar cell busbars using nickel instead of silver, thus introducing savings of between 50 and 70%.
Heraeus challenges DuPont infringement lawsuit
Heraeus Precious Metals North America Conshohocken LLC has hit back at DuPonts infringement lawsuit, saying that not only has it not infringed on the DuPont patent relating to front-side sliver pastes, but that DuPont is “engaging in unlawful trade practices.”
PV polysilicon prices continue to plummet
Oversupply is continuing to plague the photovoltaic polysilicon market, according to IHS iSuppi, which say Tier 1 suppliers need to reduce production to alleviate the market. A revival could be seen this year; however, investigations by China into the U.S. and Korean markets are hampering development.
