Portugal issues new rules for selection of unsibisidized large-scale solar projects
The new provisions include a draw mechanism for the project selection. The results of the first draw will be announced in mid-March.
Interview: There is a long positive road ahead for solar in Brazil
In an interview with pv magazine, head of the Brazilian government-run energy agency EPE, Luiz Augusto Barroso explains how the newly-implemented mechanism for power auctions was conceived for ensuring a more market-oriented approach and increasing competition. Barroso adds that the upcoming A-4 auction, which includes solar, may have a slightly bigger outcome than the auction held in December, and that the inclusion of solar in the A-6 auction, which is expected to be held in the second half of this year, is being considered.
Trump’s steel, aluminum tariffs to increase solar costs
The U.S. President has announced a 25% tariff on imported steel and 10% on aluminum. While the details remain unclear, this will inevitably raise prices for solar PV installations.
Belgium sets record for power production from solar
On February 25, Belgium recorded the maximum amount of electricity produced by solar PV. Overall, it acounted for an impressive 21% of the country’s electricity consumption.
Brazil prepares to join ISA, reaches 200 MW of solar DG
Twenty countries, including Brazil, have already ratified their alliance with the organization. For the executive president of ABSOLAR, the initiative will represent a strategic step to position Brazil as a main player in the international solar PV sector. Meanwhile, the cumulative installed capacity of DGPV system connected to the Brazilian grid has reached 200 MW.
Solargiga invests in 1 GW of module output — correction
A unit of Solargiga Energy Holdings has revealed plans to invest CNY 160 million ($25.2 million) in 1 GW per year of PV module production capacity.
Canadian Solar nails $149m loan for 53 MW in Japan
Canadian Solar has signed a credit facility of up to JPY 16 billion ($149 million) with Shinsei Bank to back the construction of a 53.4 MWp solar project in southwestern Japan.
Australian utility Powershop drops rates 5% thanks to new hydro, wind, solar assets
The Australian unit of New-Zealand based Meridian Energy is dropping the rates 5% for its customers in the Australian state of Victoria, as it adds “a diverse set of renewable generation” to its portfolio.
Dutch government plans to build solar parks on its own premises
The first pilot PV projects are planned to have a power range of 80 MW to 100 MW each, and are to be finalized by 2020.
Solar rises to nearly 2% of US generation in 2017
Generation from U.S. solar increased 41% last year to 1.9% of all electricity, with solar making up more than 10% of generation in California, Nevada, Hawaii and Vermont.
