Markets

A new report states that the photovoltaics (PV) industry is at a crossroads, with a growing realization that PV panels are becoming commoditized. But, it believes building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) could provide a strategic solution.

SMA Solar Technology AG has announced it expects record sales of between €1.7 to €1.9 billion for 2010. Looking forward, the German inverter company says it hopes to achieve sales of €1.5 to €1.9 billion this year.

According to a new report, the U.S. greentech mergers and acquisitions (M&A) landscape posted a record year in 2010, with the solar sector displaying increased activity.

The French Government is looking to motivate its national photovoltaics (PV) industry through the introduction of a new R&D program, which is aimed at reducing China’s grip on the global PV market.

Demand for photovoltaics (PV) in Austria is strong, but fears have been voiced over its restrictive subsidy quota, which has been exhausted up to and including 2019 for projects over five kilowatts peak (kWp).

A Spanish association of solar power producers has announced its intention to go to court over the government’s plans to cap solar subsidies.

Explosive photovoltaics (PV) growth is expected in Asia in 2011, with Korea playing a leading role.

Evergreen Solar, Inc. has announced it will close its Devens manufacturing facility in Massachusetts, the U.S. Around 800 employees are expected to be affected.

The market for photovoltaics (PV) inverter service plans and extended warranties is forecast to grow by over 480 percent between over the next three years, thus creating “huge” growth opportunities for inverter suppliers.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Germany’s Centrosolar have signed a solar module manufacturing agreement as part of TSMC’s efforts for diversification.