Germany sets new PV installation record in 2012
Germanys Federal Network Agency has again at the last minute released the latest photovoltaic installation figures and feed-in tariff (FIT) reductions. While last December saw just 330 MW of new plants added, a new installation record was seen in 2012. Meanwhile, FITs will drop 2.2% over the next three months.
Asola Solarpower applies for self-administration insolvency
Asola Solarpower GmbH has submitted an application to the local court in Erfurt, Germany to open insolvency proceedings under self-administration. A part of its restructuring plan is to find interested investors.
Solar Bankers plans 300 MW production of its new concentrated solar module
U.S.-based Solar Bankers LLC and Germanys Apollon GmbH & Co. KG have unveiled a new concentrated solar module using holographic foil, which they claim can be produced at costs lower than other manufacturers. They aim to establish 300 MW of production capacity in 2013.
PV polysilicon utilization rates drop to under 70%
Average quarterly polysilicon plant utilization rates have fallen below 70% in the past six months, according to NPD Solarbuzz. While this has put many “aggressive” capacity expansions on hold, supply rationalization is helping to stabilize prices.
Centrotherm looks forward to terminating insolvency proceedings
Centrotherm photovoltaics AGs insolvency plan has been approved, meaning the German company can now look forward to terminating its insolvency proceedings, pending final confirmation.
SolarWorld CEO buys castle
Frank Asbeck would often like to be referred to as the sun king in the solar industry. While his photovoltaic group grapples with its debt issues, the CEO has bought a castle in Germany from entertainer Thomas Gottschalk.
France reports 66.7% increase in solar power generation
According to the 2012 French Electricity Report published last week by France’s transmission system operator Réseau de Transport d’Electricité (RTE), photovoltaic systems generated 4 TWh lat year. This figure corresponds to a 66.7% increase in solar power output compared to 2011.
Germany: Altmaier presents concept for short-term EEG changes
Germany’s Federal Environment Minister has presented his concept for “electricity price protection”. Altmaiers aim is to limit the energy transition cost and, thus, set the stage for photovoltaic, wind and biomass cuts. The amendments are expected to be passed before the summer break.
India: Solar pros and cons from austerity drive
With an austerity regime in full swing in India, attempts to trim the national deficit which looks set to fall short by some margin are set to be a double edged sword for solar.
Latin America: A PV opportunity in 2013
With 8.4 GW of new solar projects announced in Latin America and the Caribbean over the past 12 months, market research provider GTM Research is predicting that 450 MW of new grid connected capacity will come online this year.
