China: REC Silicon reduces stake in 20,000 MT polysilicon JV
The Norwegian polysilicon producer saw its stake in the joint venture (JV) with Chinese silicon material manufacturer, NSF reduced, after the latter agreed to provide all of REC Silicon’s outstanding capital contribution for the project.
Japan: Moixa, Itochu partner on energy storage platform, announce £5 million investment
Moixa has partnered with Japanese trading house, Itochu to market its GridShare platform in Japan. The latter has also invested £5 million in the U.K. residential battery developer to fund further international expansion. The U.S. and Europe are on its radar.
ECREEE launches scheme to create qualified solar workforce in West Africa
The scheme is being implemented with the support of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the German development agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
Niger tenders 22 MW solar-diesel hybrid project
The project will consist of a 13 MW solar facility, three 2 MW diesel power generators, and a 5 MWh storage system.
TÜV, NRW solar module workshop goes international
The module workshop hosted by TÜV Rheinland and Germany’s energy agency, NRW was held for the first time in English and for an international audience. The main conclusion of the event, held in Germany, is that the latest technologies and trends should be constantly observed and evaluated.
2018 pivotal year for Greek energy, new PV auctions planned
2018 is going to be a pivotal year for Greece’s energy sector, including in renewables. An auction for new solar PV plants is expected to attract global attention; however other changes currently underway are also expected to be effective for the long term development of the Greek PV industry.
Hareon faces huge losses, possible delisting from stock market
The Chinese solar PV manufacturer gives warning of operational losses amounting up to $444 million in 2017. Ongoing financial losses could result in a delisting from the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
Taiwan next country to file WTO complaint over US solar tariffs
Taiwan has filed a complaint with the WTO over the U.S.’s decision to impose safeguard tariffs of up to 30% on crystalline silicon solar cell and module imports.
French Development Agency issues tender for Benin’s first solar park
The 25 MW project is being financially supported by the European Union and the AFD with €60 million.
Ireland to issue grant aided pilot scheme for PV microgeneration this summer
The scheme, which was not included in the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) unveiled by the Irish government in September, will initially be targeted at residential self-consumption.
