India: PM Modi calls on states for proactive solar push
Indian Prime Minister sends pro-solar tweet hours after urging the country’s state leaders to ensure solar power projects are implemented as soon as possible; foreign bidders at auction draw criticism.
Scotland looks to the sun as England, Wales turn their backs
Scottish government confirms small-scale solar farms smaller than 5 MW will continue to be eligible for the ROC; Edinburgh launches ambitious community solar scheme.
No German FIT degression in Q4 for first time
There will be no monthly decrease in the FIT paid to solar PV arrays in Germany this quarter, as new installed capacity for Q3 falls below the corridor that would trigger a degression. This is the first time no degression will take place since the current iteration of the FIT scheme was put in place in 2012.
UK: Solar spending cuts amount to 98% reduction in support, STA calculates
Analysis by the Solar Trade Association finds that the U.K. government’s proposed cuts will see the rate of solar support fall from 70 million pounds a year to just two million.
Oxford PV raises further GBP4.4 million for perovskite commercialization
The UK’s Oxford PV has raised a further GBP4.4 million (US$6.6 million) in a “top-up” Round B, to continue with its work in commercialization perovskite technology. Drawing on both new and existing investors, Oxford has now raised a total of GBP8.2 million (US$12.4 million) in its B round.
Jordan receives $250 million loan from World Bank to boost renewables
The World Bank has approved a $250 million loan facility to support Jordan’s transition to renewable energy and the more efficient use of water resources. The loan is specifically expected boost residential solar PV installations for poor households.
SkyPower signs 150 MW PPA in Madhya Pradesh
Canadian solar developer enters long-term power purchase agreement with the Government of Madhya Pradesh for the development of 150 MW of solar PV.
Austin, Texas to procure up to 300 MW of solar now, another 300 MW later
Today the Austin City Council meets to consider two sets of contracts, but the decision appears to be a done deal. More than 600 MW of bids came in at under five US cents per kWh.
First Solar secures loan for Japanese pipeline
U.S. thin film producer and developer First Solar has secured a loan facility from Mizuho Bank to develop utility scale PV projects in Japan. The loan is for US$33 million and First Solar has indicated that it will work with local companies to realize the solar farms in the country.
Argentina passes renewable energy law: 20% by 2025
The law includes an 8% target by 2017, a price cap for contracts, and an obligation for large energy users.
