Australia: Pro-solar rally slams attack on renewable target
The organized opposition to the federal government’s moves to abolish or reduce Australia’s Renewable Energy Target (RET) has begun. More than 500 people attended a rally in Brisbane to protest against changes to the RET.
Trina takes a different approach to EU markets
The Chinse solar giant has become more competitive in getting its products to customers, says Ben Hill, the company’s president Europe. Trina’s global strategy, including operations in the U.K., the U.S. and Japan, remain key to its success.
S4 Solar to build 100 MW module assembly plant in Brazil
S4 Solar do Brasil, which is making its debut at Intersolar South America this month, is constructing a 100 MW module plant in Brazil to focus on the domestic market.
History repeating: Solar energy 'unstoppable'
John Perlin explores the history of solar energy in his latest book, “Let it Shine: The 6,000-Year Story of Solar Energy.” pv magazine caught up with the author for an interview in the August issue. Here’s an excerpt.
REC, Sunrun sign US solar panel deal
The U.S. market is becoming increasingly important for the Norwegian solar group as it continues to broaden distribution of its products worldwide.
SunEdison closes on US$160 million fund for 46 MW of behind-the-meter solar PV
The solar developer says that its lease-pass-through fund represents a new approach designed to allow participation from a wider range of tax equity investors. The fund will support roughly 1/3 of SunEdison’s behind-the-meter projects in 2014.
Bill to streamline solar permitting passes the California legislature
Legislation to standardize and improve the byzantine permitting and inspection procedures in various cities and counties in California has passed both houses of the state’s legislature. CALSEIA says that this will both reduce installation time and help bring down the cost of solar.
Lithium batteries leading electrochemical energy storage technologies
A new study by the Technical University of Munich indicates Asian developers are leading the way when it comes to energy storage systems and far outpacing U.S. and European rivals.
Israel to launch net metering pilot program for government buildings
Israel’s Ministry of Public Security is tendering development of 13 rooftop PV installations totaling 750 kW. The so-called ‘Blue Sky’ project is a pilot program that aims to deploy solar PV net metering systems across the country.
Germany slates $210 million for sustainable power grid research
Some 200 research institutes and companies are taking part in the initiative, part of the country’s ambitious goal of an 80% renewable energy share by 2050.
