New York State quietly lifts the cap on net metering
Without publicity, New York regulators have suspended the existing cap on the state’s net metering program, until such time as a new valuation is concluded under the REV process.
Apple to add 200 MW of solar in China, announces 2 GW clean energy goals
U.S. tech firm completes 40 MW solar project in China and reveals plans for a further 200 MW of PV capacity in the country; will also green its suppliers by partnering with them on a 2 GW clean power push.
Half of all Australian households could adopt solar by 2018, finds the Climate Council
Australia could become world-leader in solar+storage deployment for the home by 2018, report finds, as affordable battery technology pours into the market, swelling solar uptake in the process.
UK: REA seeks government clarity on renewables following Hinkley Point nuclear deal
The Renewable Energy Association expresses concerns regarding the 35-year subsidy costs for the controversial nuclear plant, and is urging the Prime Minister to explain the governments plans for renewables.
IEA says global climate pledges fall short on required decarbonization efforts
The International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook labels level of pledges made as impressive, but urges governments to do more if world is to avoid a 2c temperature rise by 2100.
Solar and wind will match gas on cost by 2020, finds UK government body
The Committee on Climate Change reports that low carbon energy sources will be as affordable in the U.K. as gas by 2020, provided gas pays its fair share through a carbon price.
Large-scale PV projects show strong performance in early review
A report by Fitch Ratings finds that recently completed large utility-scale solar projects tend to generate more electricity than expected, with low variability in output and high availability.
Off Grid Electric raises US$25 million to provide solar power to homes in Africa
OGE’s C round is the largest venture capital funding round for distributed energy in Africa to date. The company is currently deploying 10,000 home solar systems per month in Tanzania using a leasing model.
Japan: Solar auctions considered as METI mulls changes to renewable incentives
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry discussed this week plans to resolve grid restrictions and effective ways to alter the renewable incentive program to make it more affordable, with auctions thought to be a preferred option.
UK: solar requires 50% less subsidy than Hinkley Point C nuclear plant, STA finds
Analysis timed to coincide with Chinese President Xi Jinping state visit to the U.K. finds solar subsidy costs are just half those required for controversial nuclear plant in order for same power output.
