Suntech hits 20.3 percent cell efficiency
Using its proprietary Pluto technology, Suntech says it has achieved 20.3 percent efficiency on a photovoltaic cell. More advancements are expected in the next few months.
North Carolina PV systems achieve grid parity
According to a new study, many photovoltaic systems bigger than 10 kilowatts (kW) achieved grid parity with commercial retail electricity prices in 2011. This has resulted in a spike in projects and, thus, jobs. Both declining costs and the states favorable policies are said to be driving growth.
Solopower searches for staff for new US fab
As some companies layoff staff in an attempt to contain costs, U.S. flexible CIGS manufacturer, Solopower is searching for staff for its Oregon fabs expansion.
First Solar responds to concerns over higher warranty rates for hot climates
Photovoltaic module manufacturer, First Solar has caused a stir in the thin film industry, after its CFO stated that its warranty rates for hot climates were higher. While concerns have been raised, the company has played the issue down to pv magazine.
FRV and Denham Capital to invest $190 million in solar projects
Spanish company Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV) and private equity firm, Denham Capital, have formed a partnership under which they will invest US$190 million in solar projects across a number of different global regions.
Premier Power and Chaori plan 3 PV projects in New Jersey worth $27.6 million
Premier Power Renewable Energy and Chaori Solar USA have signed a US$27.6 million agreement, under which they plan to develop utility-scale power plants in the U.S.
Trade rout: CVD act passed by US Congress fuels rivalry with China
Capitalism prevailed over party politics this week, as the U.S. Congress moved swiftly to pass legislation that would enable the Department of Commerce to continue applying countervailing duty (CVD) law to non-market economies (NMEs), such as China and Vietnam.
Germany: TÜV finds rusted nuclear waste barrels
At a time when Germany’s solar industry is suffering from weakened political support, the Technical Inspection Association, TÜV, has uncovered rusted radioactive waste barrels in the already inoperative Brunsbüttel nuclear plant in northern Germany.
Sharp to develop 100 MW of PV in Indonesia; announces Japan project
The Sharp Corporation, in partnership with the Indonesia Government, will develop 100 megawatts (MW) worth of photovoltaic projects in Indonesia. It will also work on a 2.4 MW solar system in Japan.
Suntech predicts intense competition in 2012, following losses of $1 billion in 2011
Suntech expects to see “intense competition” in 2012, following a shaky 12 months for most solar companies. In the fourth quarter (Q4) and full year (FY) 2011, the Chinese photovoltaic manufacturer suffered significant losses. Meanwhile, this year, Q1 shipments are expected to decline.
