Storage insiders tepid on Tesla's new battery system
Tesla presented its new battery power-storage system last week in California. The sensational low price of the system does not yet have the competition shaking in their boots; not officially, at least. On the contrary, whether the device can deliver on all that it promises is questionable.
MIT Energy Initiative: solar best potential for meeting humanity's needs
Solar has been singled out by the MIT Energy Initiative (METEI) as holding the best potential for meeting humanity’s future long-term energy needs while cutting greenhouse gas emissions. The research calls for more funding into grid and market integration of PV along with research into technologies to reduce cost and increase efficiencies.
Trina to build major new production facility in Thailand
Trina Solar has announced its intention to construct a 700 MW cell and 500 MW module production facility in Thailand. Trina will invest US$160m on the factory building and tooling, with production at the site set to commence in late 2015 or early 2016.
IHS: Module gross profits to double in 2015
Gross profits for PV module producers will top US$5 billion in 2015, more than doubling on 2014 results. This is the prediction of industry analysts IHS, which attributed the growing profits a 30% increase in end demand.
Hanergy subsidiary books 900 MW tool order from Hanergy
Fully owned Hanergy subsidiary Fujan Apollo has reported a 900 MW order for silicon-based BIPV module assembly lines. The purchaser is Hanergy Holding.
Solar becoming 'least-cost option' for US utilities
Solar energy is fast becoming a ‘least-cost’ option for U.S. utilities. Declining technology costs, policy support and retail rate levels are cited as contributing factors. Issues, including rate restructuring and grid integration, need to be addressed; meanwhile, community solar programs are garnering strong interest.
Construction begins on 97 MW Chilean PV plant
Construction on Enel Green Power’s (EGPs) 97 MW Chilean PV power plant is underway. It is scheduled for completion in 2016.
Tesla 'R' Us: more solar firms partner with the Powerwall
Tesla’s breakthrough battery storage offering proves irresistible to leading solar companies keen on bundling the tech with their own service and products.
Advanced Energy enjoys Q1 profit of $21.3 million
Sales revenue held steady at $141.1 million for the first quarter, although inverter sector performed poorly, impacted by seasonality and pricing pressures.
Court rejects Solar-Fabrik's self-administration insolvency plans
A court in Freiburg has rejected Solar-Fabrik’s attempts at self-administration insolvency, due to high costs. The news comes on the back of product warnings issued by the company.
