The 2012 solar year in review and what lies ahead in 2013
During 2012, many PV manufacturers endured a long, uphill battle, staggering under steep price cuts, excess inventory, shrinking margins and political headwinds; and all the while, jostling for position with other technologies. However, those that have demonstrated the stamina to survive, and that can hold their ground in 2013, have a chance at remaining in top demand for years to come.
SiC Processing in self-administration
SiC Processing GmbH’s request to file for self-administrative insolvency has been accepted by the district court in Germany’s Amberg. Management now has three months to design a restructuring plan.
Solar Gangnam Style
It seems no one is immune to South Korea’s newest pop star. To mark the end of 2012, SolarEdge has released its own version of Psy’s Gangnam Style – a modern ode to solar energy with encouraging words for the coming year.
SMA acquires majority stake in Chinese PV inverter company
SMA Solar Technology AG has acquired a 72.5% stake in Chinese photovoltaic inverter company, Jiangsu Zeversolar New Energy Co., Ltd. The move, if approved, will help SMA access China’s burgeoning solar market.
Spanish Congress approves new energy law
With the approval of the parliament, from 2013 onwards, PV power producers in Spain will have to pay a new tax of 7% on top of their FITs. Meanwhile, Energy Minister Soria intends to finalize Spains energy reform within the next six months.
Germany: Glimmer of hope for First Solar's Frankfurt operations
By the end of the year, First Solar Inc. will stop photovoltaic production in Germany’s Frankfurt Oder. However, plant management has announced that there is now investor interest and hopes for a solution in Q1 2013.
Tenesol starts work on 2 PV plants in South Africa
Photovoltaic activity is heating up in South Africa. The latest news sees Tenesol undertaking work on two projects worth 33 MW in the Northern Cape Province.
JinkoSolar plans 200 MW PV plant in China
JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with state-owned Jinchuan Group Co., Ltd, under which it will develop a 200 MW photovoltaic plant in Chinas Jinchang, Gansu Province.
WTO confirms Ontarios FITs breach rules
In a panel report issued yesterday, December 19, the World Trade Organization (WTO) confirms that Ontarios renewable energy FIT, which includes a domestic content requirement, breaches WTO rules.
US: Meaningful improvements in PV system pricing
GTM Researchs Andrew Krulewitz details the factors that contributed to price declines in each U.S. photovoltaic market segments in Q4 2012.
