Macron climate summit draws big announcements, but they still fall short
A number of parties used the One Planet Summit in France yesterday to either reaffirm clean financing commitments, or unveil new ones. However, the figures still fall short of the US$6.3 trillion the OECD has calculated is needed annually.
Leading corporations urge EU to back corporate renewable PPAs
Re-Source Platform, which is administered by SolarPower Europe and WindEurope, sees more than 50 multinational corporations including Facebook, Google and Amazon sign letter to European Energy Ministers calling for removal of regulatory barriers on corporate renewable PPAs.
France and EU finance Benin’s first solar power plant
The 25 MW Defissol project will be built at a cost of approximately €60 million (US$70.45 million).
ET Solar Inc. files for bankruptcy
A U.S. module sales subsidiary of the Chinese PV module maker and developer has quietly filed for bankruptcy. Details are sparse, but the parent company’s U.S. project development and construction subsidiary has not been affected.
France raises annual capacity of solar tenders by 1 GW, confirms joint wind-solar auctions
The tenders’ capacity will be increased gradually starting from next March. The move is part of the French government’s strategy to accelerate the development of solar, and reach its 2023 targets.
Canadian Solar privatization offer prompts stock surge, possible industry trend
Solar stocks surged yesterday after Canadian Solar announced it had received a “going private” proposal, reports Zacks. Analysts at Guggenheim, meanwhile, say the offer will be given “serious consideration.” They believe other companies may follow suit, if accepted.
South Africa: Calls for 1.5 GW of annual PV, 55,000 new jobs – comment
The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has called on the country’s government for more PV support. Energy specialist, Chris Ahlfeldt comments on the five point PV plan, which envisages 1.5 GW of new installs annually, and the creation of 55,000 jobs. He also discusses the ongoing issue of the 27 unsigned PPAs, and the bottlenecks in the market.
Schneider Electric to go 100% renewable by 2030
The French energy management and automation company plans to use on-site projects, contracted off-site projects and clean energy credits to meet its new 100% goal.
EBRD earmarks $22 million for 50 MW Jordan PV plant, $100 million for green bonds
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is providing a US$22 million shot in the arm for a 50 MW solar power plant in the Risha region developed by Saudi ACWA Power. The bank has also announced plans to invest up to $100 million to back development of the green bond markets, and pledged its support to city climate projects allocating over $500 million with an eye to scaling up green urban financing.
Japan may surpass 2030 PV target of 64 GW within two years — RTS
Japan may reach its 2030 solar installation target of 64 GW about 10 years ahead of schedule, according to a new report by PV consulting firm, RTS Corp.
