Markets & Policy

The U.S. can increase its share of renewable energy penetration to 27% by 2030 both technically and cost-effectively. This is the key message of a new report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

With oil prices in free-fall since summer, some financial analysts are drawing attention to a corresponding negative impact on the solar sector. They note, for example, that solar-focused exchange-traded funds such as Guggenheim Solar ETF and Market Vectors Solar Energy ETF have fallen almost in concert with petroleum prices.

Business website outlines plans for state-owned bodies to create five $5bn funds. Government-owned institutions concerned yet to comment on investment plan.

Solar lease provider Sunrun has raised $195 million in senior credit facilities with Investec to support the rollout of its residential solar packages. The leasing company says it will reduce the cost of capital.

Republican launches petition to open up power sale market in the state. Tory Perfetti wants solar system owners to be able to sell power directly to consumers.

Germany’s Mounting Systems has acquired HatiCon from global aluminum supplier Sapa. The firms have not disclosed the purchase price.

Xinjiang manufacturer warned over missing filing. Company has until March 9 to persuade New York exchange it will submit form.

Data released today by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) reveals that investment in clean energy rose in 2014, growing 16% year-on-year. Solar investment grew 25% in 2014, totaling $149.6 billion.

Big predictions, the U.S. public embraces solar, which is likely to come more and more from China, the Indian government punishes lack of punctuality and there’s some positive news from Egypt.

Among the market research firm’s forecasts for the coming year: California will become global leader in solar power penetration. By the end of 2015, California — the largest renewable power market in the United States — will attain worldwide leadership in market share of annual PV power generation.