Deutsche Bank predicts growing solar margins in 2015, despite oil price
In its 2015 outlook for investors, Deutsche Bank predicts a year of growing margins and stable supply and demand dynamics for the year. Diverse demand drivers in the U.S. will be a key highlight, while project financing and permitting progress in China balances potential weakness in Japan.
Brazil: Pure Energy secures $10 million for new module fab
Brazilian development bank BNDES is financing 75% of the reported $17 million, 40 MW-capacity project in the northern state of Alagoas. The decision marks the first time the bank has financed a PV module factory.
Duke Energy signs 20-year PPA for 20 MW project in Indiana
The largest electric power utility in the United States has committed to purchase power from three solar developers for four Indiana communities.
Idaho approves 100 MW solar project
Valued at some $322.5 million over 20 years, the deal provides an average levelized rate of 6.3 cents per kilowatt hour for Idaho Power Company.
Pakistan overhauls its solar industry for the better
Government approves net metering program and introduces funding scheme allowing homeowners to borrow against their mortgage for solar installations.
US Commerce decision welcomed in China, American downstream market to benefit
Update: “In short, this is a setback for SolarWorld and a big win for the Chinese manufacturers,” says GTM Research Senior Vice President Shayle Kann.
Germany: Innotech Solar buys Energiebau
Saved from insolvency, the German solar wholesaler will now offer Innotech product while continuing to sell other PV modules. The company says it is nevertheless reducing its product portfolio in order to adapt to current market conditions.
California: Gov. Brown calls for 50% renewables, more PV in Golden State
California Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday called for the state’s electric utilities to boost their renewable energy procurements to 50% of retail electric sales and discussed future initiatives to support rooftop solar, battery storage, grid infrastructure and electric vehicles.
New development schemes boost solar across India
The Ministry of Defence, India Railways and the state government of Maharashtra have unveiled new policies and plans that will boost solar development throughout the country over the next five years.
Solar overwhelmingly popular in US, says Harvard scientist
Professor’s 12-year study finds attitudes towards solar and wind energy among Americans largely positive, with natural gas viewed as a ‘make-do’ fuel until renewables more mainstream.
