Extent of India’s new utility-scale solar has almost halved in six months
India added 1.2 GW of large-scale projects in the third quarter of 2018-19, taking new capacity in the first half to 1.9 GW. The numbers are down 43% and 44%, respectively, on the same periods of the previous year, according to Bridge to India’s quarterly India Solar Compass.
Dutch government sets up €100 million fund for PV in schools
The scheme would provide low interest loans to Dutch schools willing to go solar. Some 6,000 of the country’s 7,000 school buildings have yet to install an array.
PV to take lion’s share of $120 billion annual investment
The impressive growth is unlikely to replace coal-fired power generation as it will only be sufficient to cover the predicted increase in demand for electricity. The electrification of heating, manufacturing and transportation offer room for further development.
US: Duke issues $1 billion in inaugural green bond offerings
In what it touts as one of the largest green bond transactions issued by a U.S. utility, Duke Energy Carolinas has issued bonds to further renewable energy development.
Singapore launches blockchain-based renewable energy marketplace
Companies keen to offset their carbon emissions will be able to purchase renewable energy certificates at Singapore’s first blockchain-powered marketplace, launched by electricity provider SP Group.
$200 million earmarked for green projects in Lebanon
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) yesterday unveiled details for Lebanon’s first Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF), the largest thus far in the bank’s Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region (SEMED). The GEFF program is set to address key issues of energy security, efficiency and sustainability for the Middle Eastern country.
BayWa plans sale of 450 MW of solar, wind
In the first nine months of 2018, the energy division of the Germany-based group recorded a loss of over €10 million. By the end of the year, earnings are expected to enter positive territory, however,
NantEnergy acquires Sharp’s US energy systems & services
Zinc battery specialist NantEnergy has acquired the U.S. energy systems and services business from Japanese electronics giant Sharp. The acquisition, according to NantEnergy, will provide the company with an important foothold in the U.S. market and allow it to provide “energy as a service” business models, using its Zinc-air battery, in multiple markets.
SMA positive despite net income dip
SMA Solar Technology AG saw its net income fall from €25 million in the first nine months of 2017 to €8 million in the same period this year. Despite the dip, it remains confident of its position in the industry going forward.
EU provides €6m lending facility for Albanian energy efficiency measures, including PV panels
The owners of private buildings will be eligible to borrow for measures including solar panels and insulation, with the funds to be distributed by the domestic Union Bank.
