Albania to launch auction for over 50 MW of solar
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will help the Albanian government to set up an auction mechanism for large-scale PV plants. Between 50 MW and 100 MW will be allocated in the first auction.
U.S. utilities try new tactics to discourage solar, but still aren’t getting what they want
The latest NCCETC report on state solar policies finds some new twists as part of an ongoing attempt by utilities to weaken the economics of customer-owned solar, but regulators still mostly aren’t on board.
Neoen commissions 101 MW solar facility in El Salvador
The project consists of a 76 MW unit selected in an energy auction, and a 25 MW section selling power to a local power distributor.
SolarPower Europe: new financial mechanisms at EU-level are crucial for solar
The European solar association has released a new report that recommends ten actions to further support solar across the EU. Innovative financing mechanisms and new business models, as well as balanced regulatory frameworks, are considered necessary to ensure the future growth of PV in Europe.
Armenia announces tender for 55 MW solar project
The Armenian Ministry of Energy Infrastructure and Natural Resources has prequalified ten companies in the preliminary phase of the tender for the project, which will be located in Masrik, Gegharkunik province, in the eastern part of Armenia.
Germany adds 111 MW of solar in March
The German government will reduce FITs by 0.25% for the next months, although new additions are significantly behind the 2.5 GW annual target for solar.
Mexico to hold third renewable energy auction in November
The Mexican government announced the timeline for the upcoming renewable energy auction. Technical bids must be submitted in September.
Ireland: interest grows in large-scale solar
Irish power utility EBS and wind specialist Bord na Móna are planning a giant solar project across three counties in the middle of Ireland. Meanwhile, large-scale PV projects with a combined capacity of 1.47 GW were submitted to the local grid operator for approval.
Italy installed 84 MW of PV in first quarter 2017
The southern European country added new PV systems totaling 32.6 MW in March. Meanwhile, solar covered around 8.8% of Italy’s electricity demand last month, and 5.8% in the first three months of this year.
Mexico: government of Jalisco commissions 8 MW merchant solar plant
The PV plant is one of the country’s first merchant solar projects after the energy reform was introduced. The project’s required investment was $14 million.
