Greece announces drastic FIT cuts
The Greek Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change (YPEKA) announced on Friday the new feed-in tariffs (FITs) for photovoltaic systems. An over 40% tariff reduction has been signed off on, both for ground-mounted and rooftop installations. This will be valid from June 1.
MEMC positive on solar outlook
Although polysilicon manufacturer MEMC’s first quarter results paint a picture familiar for companies with solar as part of their offering, the drag of photovoltaics on the balance sheet was not a severe as has been seen elsewhere.
China aims to avoid a trade war; specific tariffs reported
As the EU Commission gears up to impose average anti-dumping duties of 47% on Chinese photovoltaic imports from June 6, China has called for dialogue to avoid a “trade war.” Meanwhile, reports have surfaced detailing the specific tariff levels of China’s biggest manufacturers.
Thin film loophole to be closed in India
A loophole in the commissioning of solar projects under India’s Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (NSM) which allowed developers to bypass domestic content requirements is set to be closed.
ABB demonstrates solar credentials in Japan
Swiss engineering conglomerate ABB has joined the race for a slice of the lucrative Japanese solar market by demonstrating its solar muscle with a PV installation on one of its factories in the country.
Centrosolar sees Q1 revenue drop 46% as domestic market worsens
Centrosolar Group AG’s preliminary first quarter results reflected both a sharp decrease in the sale of PV modules and the general downturn in the German PV market.
ABB CEO resigns
Only days after signing a deal to expand ABBs activities in PV, CEO Joe Hogan has resigned from his post. Hogan cited “private reasons” for his departure.
Construction begins on 160 MW CSP plant in Morocco
Construction on Moroccos 160 MW concentrated solar power (CSP) plant project in Ouarzazate began on Friday with a symbolic groundbreaking ceremony by King Mohammed VI.
EU ProSun claims PV duties will create jobs
In reaction to the news that photovoltaic AD duties will likely be imposed on June 6 by the EU Commission, EU ProSun says they will have a “positive effect” on solar growth and jobs. Conversely, AFASE believes tariffs will cause “severe damage” to the market.
PV wafer production forecast to grow 19% in 2013
After falling 15% in 2012, photovoltaic wafer production is expected to grow 19% this year, passing 30 GW and reaching 2011 levels, due in large part to growing Japanese demand, according to the latest NPD Solarbuzz Polysilicon and Wafer Supply Chain Quarterly.
