Interest increases in Brazilian solar market, but challenges remain
The Brazilian solar market has yet to get off the ground, and many of the existing photovoltaic installations are off-grid. However, according to ANEEL, there has been a recent “explosion” of interest in the country, with rooftop systems offering cheaper electricity prices than the grid. Nevertheless, based on existing support, the IEA is more skeptical about growth.
China predicted to install 5 to 7 GW of PV in 2012
According to IMS Research, between five and seven GW worth of photovoltaics will be installed in China in 2012. It forecasts that over four GW will be added in the second half of the year alone.
Italy: 6 billion PV funding limit reached
Following months of speculation over when Italy’s next renewable energy law will come into play, it has now been confirmed that the country’s 6 billion photovoltaic feed-in tariff (FIT) funding limit was reached yesterday, July 12, meaning the Conto Energia V must come into force on August 27.
PV margin and pricing pressure to continue into Q3
According to the Deutsche Bank’s latest solar industry update, photovoltaic companies can expect to see continued margin and pricing pressure.
Ukraine cuts solar FITs
Ukraine has cut its photovoltaic feed-in tariffs by up to 27 percent. It has further adopted a new law, under which private households may sell solar electricity to the grid. Meanwhile, the country’s renewable energy targets have been increased and the local content requirements laid out.
Indonesia: Pertamina seeks to develop PV
Indonesian state oil and gas company, PT Pertamina will collaborate with P T LEN Industry to establish an integrated PV industry in the country.
Spain: Rajoy plans to raise cash from renewables
Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy has told his parliament that tax hikes for the renewable energy sectors would be part of the solution for the 65 billion deficit in the country. He made this statement at the address yesterday, where he called on Spaniards to back the measures that would aid Madrid in cutting its budget deficit through to 2015.
Pike Research joins Navigant
Navigant, a global expert services provider, has acquired Pike Research, expanding its energy research and market intelligence offerings.
Centrotherm files for Chapter 11 insolvency protection
Yet another German company has been forced to file for insolvency protection. Centrotherm photovoltaics AG announced that it has submitted an application to file for self-administrative insolvency. Despite this, business is said to be continuing as usual.
US: PV installers emerge as "favorable" investment area
Solar M&A activity in the U.S. has tailed off this year compared to 2011, according to the latest figures. Despite this, photovoltaic project installers have reportedly emerged as a favorable investment area. Furthermore, energy storage M&A activity is said to have enjoyed strong growth.
