Thin film opportunities as PV downturn draws to a close
Despite the declining market share of thin film technologies in global photovoltaics, as the market emerges from the current downturn, opportunities will present in various niches. This was one of the key messages delivered by speakers at the Thin Film Industry Forum, held today in Berlin.
Turkey: More PV details emerge
Turkey is poised to become one of the third largest PV markets in the Middle East over the next five years, with 1.7 GW of unlicensed commercial-scale projects set to be installed through 2018, according to further details released by Canada-based ClearSky Advisors.
Germany installs 775 MW of PV in Q1 2013
Germany reportedly added 290 MW of new photovoltaic capacity in March, according to the Federal Environment Minister. While the Federal Network Agencys figures are still to be released, if the information proves true, the solar subsidy degression planned for May could decelerate.
German solar company to invest US$2.54 million in Brazil
German solar company Ebitsch Energietechnik plans to invest 5 million Brazilian reales (US$ 2.54 million) in a photovoltaic project in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte.
China Wind Power to add 200 MW of solar by 2015
A strategic agreement between China Wind Power and CNNC Rich Energy will bring another 200 MW of solar capacity to China by 2015.
Poland continues to struggle with its renewable energy law
Renewable energy promotion in Poland has suffered a number of setbacks. Discussions over the draft law, originally scheduled to come into play this January 1, are, once again, underway. According to reports, the Economy Ministry is seeking to lower subsidies for photovoltaics, wind and biomass.
Cyprus introduces net metering for residential PV systems
The Cypriot Energy Regulatory Authority (CERA) announced a number of steps on Friday, aimed at facilitating development of PV in Cyprus. Among them is the large-scale application of net metering.
El Salvador to build 14 MW plant
The government of El Salvador is gearing up to build a 14 MW photovoltaic plant with financial help from German state bank KfW. It is expected to be the largest system of its kind, when complete.
Germany likely to see storage subsidies on May 1
German state bank KfW says it is ready to start support of storage systems for photovoltaic systems in early May. The green light is, however, still to come from Germanys Federal Environment Ministry in Berlin.
Avancis closes 20 MW CIGS PV facility in Germany
CIGS manufacturer Avancis will turn one of its manufacturing facilities in Germanys Torgau into a technology center. As such, 67 temporary employment contracts will not be renewed, and employees at the companys Munich-based research department are to be relocated to Torgau.
