New research finds utility-scale solar parks foster biodiversity
A series of longitudinal studies of three solar-pollinator sites in Minnesota have demonstrated evidence of native prairie growing under solar panels, providing both soil benefits and habitat for wildlife and pollinators.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: January-October solar additions hit 181.3 GW
China’s National Energy Administration (NEA) says developers installed 181.3 GW of new PV capacity from January to October 2024, including 20.42 GW in October alone.
JA Solar plans 2 GW solar cell, module factory in Egypt
Chinese manufacturer JA Solar has agreed to build a 2 GW solar cell and module factory in Egypt with support from UAE-based Global South Utilities.
‘Assertive women often face different perceptions in the workplace’
This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice to Amila Colakhodzic, Senior Originator and Client coverage at Austria-based Kommunalkredit. She says she constantly prioritizes open communication and inclusivity while challenging biases. “Despite women being the largest untapped resource in renewable energy, the solar sector has improved significantly. Since transitioning from wind to solar in 2018, I’ve witnessed technological advancements and increased diversity, with women taking on technical, commercial, legal, and leadership roles,” she states.
First major winter snowfall brings weekend solar generation dip
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that solar production across much of Europe is expected to dip over the weekend as a significant low-pressure system draws polar air across the continent, bringing the first large widespread snowfall of the season.
Funding secured for 237.6 MW merchant solar plant in Bulgaria
Up to €103 million ($107.2 million), from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Raiffeisen Bank International, will support the development of a fully-merchant, 237.6 MW solar project in southeastern Bulgaria.
Italy approves 6 GW of utility-scale solar in first 10 months of 2024
Italy’s regional governments approved 6 GW of utility-scale solar projects between January and October 2024, according to updates from Terna’s Econnextion map. Most of these projects are concentrated in Sicily, Lazio, Puglia, Sardinia, and Basilicata.
Serbia sets maximum solar price of €72/MWh for second renewables auction
Serbia’s upcoming second renewables auction, scheduled for later this month, aims to procure 124.8 MW of solar power with a ceiling price of €72 ($75.30)/MWh. This price is lower than the €90/MWh ceiling offered in the country’s first renewables auction last year.
Adani calls US bribery allegations ‘baseless’
Adani Group has described recent US allegations of bribery for solar contracts as “baseless” and announced plans to pursue legal action in response.
Silfab secures $100 million for US solar cell production
Silfab Solar has secured $100 million to scale solar cell production in South Carolina. The funding includes a $50 million equity investment and a matching green loan.
