Japan plans abrupt FIT cut for delayed PV projects
The subsidy for solar schemes approved between 2012 and 2014, and that will be not completed by March, may be reduced to ¥21/kWh. The proposal is expected to affect projects with a combined capacity of more than 20 GW.
Industry hails UK energy minister’s export tariff stance
Renewable energy industry bodies are hailing the U.K. Energy Minister’s comments today that power should not be provided to the country’s electricity grid for free. She was referring to the ongoing debate over whether or not to end solar export tariffs.
IEA versus the reality of solar PV
In the recently released World Energy Outlook, the International Energy Agency (IEA) foresees a steady decline in the global expansion of PV to 2035. In response, Dutch researcher Auke Hoekstra has updated his graphic, IEA versus reality in solar PV.
SolarPower Europe appoints new CEO
Walburga Hemetsberger has led the EU Representation Office of Austrian energy company Verbund AG for the past 10 years. At the same time, she was also a board member of Hydrogen Europe, in charge of Energy Transition Solutions.
Centrica to join London blockchain trial for alternative billing
Using a blockchain-based energy trading system, the company seeks to examine ways to bill customers in the best manner for them and prosumers. In light of the potential removal of export tariffs for small scale solar in the UK, the system could provide alternative remuneration for system owners. The trial will run for six months, with the possibility of extending it to two years.
European Court of Justice censors European Commission approval of UK capacity market
With Theresa May’s government in full scale revolt this week over Brexit, the ECJ’s ruling that the European Commission wrongly failed to find fault with the UK capacity market mechanism four years ago, is likely to have Brexiteers on both sides of parliament frothing at the mouth with indignation.
UK Government: ‘The devil is in the details’ for allowing RE in Capacity Market
A conference held this week in London shed light on the U.K. Government’s timeline for reviewing its Capacity Market and Contracts for Difference schemes, and what the changes could mean for renewable – and specifically solar PV – energy projects.
Argentina launches 400 MW mini renewables auction
Some 350 MW will be divided between wind and solar for projects of 500 kW to 10 MW in scale. The ceiling price for solar and wind has been set at $60/MWh.
African Energy Data Book launched
Africa Energy, a U.K. based consultancy has launched the African Energy Data Book, which it claims is the first attempt to track the continent’s electricity capacity in a single volume. PV Magazine attended the unveiling of the book.
US energy firm AES commits to 70% carbon reduction in climate scenario report
The utility giant is preparing for a greener future with plans to cut carbon emissions, while integrating increasing levels of renewable generation and energy storage.
