Global Solar Council elects new CEO Jodie Roussell
Currently serving as Head of Public Affairs for Trina Solar in Europe, Africa & Latin America, Jodie Roussell is now expected to assume the role of the Global Solar Council CEO.
GCL-SI achieves 20.1% efficiency for its PERC solar cells in mass production
The Chinese PV manufacturer has achieved a new efficiency breakthrough for its PERC solar cells, with the help of nanostructured black silicon. GCL-SI plans to reach an efficiency of up to 21.0% by the end of this year.
Germany’s auction for large-scale solar concludes with average price of €0.0566/kWh
The German government selected 32 project proposals with a combined capacity of 201 MW in the auction. For the first time, it was possible to submit proposals for large-scale PV projects on agricultural land in the regions of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. This has considerably lowered the biddings.
Helsinki Airport goes solar
A new rooftop PV system will help to lower the airport´s carbon footprint. Finavia plans to reduce the emissions on all of the company’s 21 airports to zero by 2020. The Helsinki airport will meet this goal by this year, expects the Finnish company.
German start-up launches smart DC mini grid in India
Since the beginning of June, the first 30 households in India have been connected to a mini-grid system powered by PV and equipped with a hybrid storage facility. In addition to the successful inauguration, the german start up BOS has introduced Indian technicians and villagers to the new technology.
Apple takes another bite out of climate change with second billion-dollar green bond
The tech giant’s latest investment in tackling climate change follows last year’s $1.5 billion green bond sale. Proceeds from this latest bond will be earmarked for eco-friendly projects, with solar at the forefront.
Brazil could open renewable energy auctions to hybrid projects
The Committee for the Environment of the Brazilian Senate has approved a bill to modify the legislation of the electric system and grant access to the country’s energy auctions to large-scale hybrid renewable energy projects.
Argentina to authorize private PPAs between large power consumers and renewable energy producers
A draft of the new rules was submitted to public consultation by the Argentinean government. The new regulation, if implemented, would authorize the sale of power to large industrial power consumers by direct agreement.
Oman to tender 200 MW of solar by the end of 2017
The country’s power utility is currently seeking legal advisors for the tender it intends to launch for its first large-scale solar project.
Zambia’s solar: mini grids and scaling solar projects pick up
Several sessions during last week’s Africa Energy Forum (AEF) depicted the dynamics of solar energy development in Zambia that is currently taking the form of mini grids as well as larger projects via the scaling solar program.
