SunPower big in Japan, boosts Q2 profits
The U.S.’ second biggest solar manufacturer returned to profitability in the second quarter. Operating at full capacity, the company is weighing a fab expansion to meet growing global demand, particularly from Japan.
Electric vehicle battery costs falling
Power systems will fall to $10,000 by 2015 against backdrop of rising EV sales in the U.S., says the Department of Energy.
Inverter market to shrink to $6.7 billion
The global inverter market will shrink 5% in 2013 as price pressures counter rising shipping volumes, but there will be a strong rebound next year, according to IMS Research.
Both camps express disapproval with EU-China deal
The anti-tariff AFASE lobby group is calling on EU member states to reject the deal while EU ProSun is reportedly drawing up court papers. Commissioner De Gucht has yet to confirm details of the agreement.
AFASE: minimum price should have regression built in
The anti-tariff lobby group AFASE says the reported minimum purchase price for Chinese solar modules is too high — at 20% or more above previous prices — and does not have regression built in to match FIT rates.
EU polysilicon free from Chinese import duties until late April
The EC says polysilicon imports to China will not face duties until at least April. Some 70% of Chinese manufacturers have signed up to the EC-China trade deal but the minimum import price has not been confirmed.
ProSun draws up legal battle lines
Pro-tariff lobby group says the reported solar module deal between the EU and China violates EU laws. Trade commissioner Karel De Gucht is dismissive of a possible legal challenge.
UK solar industry calls for flexible minimum module price
The duration of the solar panel EU-China trade deal should be shortened, the floor price made more flexible and the UK government should soften the blow of ‘Brussels’ meddling,’ says the Solar Trade Association.
Shares in Chinese manufacturers rocket
Stock traders reacted to news of the EU-China trade agreement and clearly indicated which side of the table they think secured the better deal. The early trading figures provided rare good cheer for Suntech.
Sunowe lands 20 MW module supply deal
The Chinese manufacturer will supply 20 MW of solar panels to state owned power company Hainan Xianshou Waterpower. The deal follows 80 MW of orders last month as Sunowe looks away from Europe.
