Future PV Forum brings close-to-commercialization technologies into focus
The 15th Forum Solarpraxis played host to the first Future PV Forum today in Berlin. 10 presentations across the solar innovation value chain showcased a range of technologies from the much-hyped perovskites to laser 3D printing for silver paste application on standard p-type crystalline silicon solar cells.
Worlds largest solar plant in operation
The 550 MW Topaz Solar Project has been completed and connected to the grid. The plant, located in San Luis Obispo County, California is currently the largest operational PV power plant in the world.
Midsummer reduces CIGS active layer to 800nm
Swedish thin film equipment supplier Midsummer has reduced the active layer in its CIGS deposition process to 800nm. The tool supplier claims that this is less than half of what other suppliers offer, substantially reducing costs.
ReneSola's shipments fall, margins increase
Chinese PV manufacturer ReneSola has seen its module and wafer shipments fall in Q3 2014 on both annual (YOY) and quarterly basis. It did, however, manage to increase its gross margin for the quarter to 15.3%.
Huawei unveils smart PV solution in Germany
Chinese company extends solar footprint in Europe with demonstration of string inverter solution at 7.8 MW solar park in western Germany.
UK: Movable FIT option for commercial rooftops receives STA backing
Plans by the British government to allow businesses and factories that move buildings to continue to claim the FIT from their previous location praised by Solar Trade Association.
South Africa delays REIPPPP solar bid decision
Minister delays announcing winners of the fourth bid window for the REIPPPP, fueling the fire of speculation in process.
Belectric reveals battery storage facility at large-scale PV plant
Belectric and Vattenfall cut the ribbon for a new battery storage facility at the Alt Daber solar power plant in Germany.
Japanese PV module demand booms to 2.52 GW in most recent quarter
The sharp increase in the nation’s PV market matches BNEF’s forecast of a 9-11 GW solar PV market in 2014. Japanese companies continue to dominate shipments.
SunEdison, Renova Energia to develop 1 GW of utility-scale solar in Brazil
As part of the joint venture agreement, SunEdison will supply solar modules and trackers for four initial projects totaling 106.9 MW in Bahia. The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) will finance construction.
