Add a pinch of salt for cheaper solar, say scientists
British scientists have discovered that magnesium chloride (salt found in seawater) is an effective replacement for cadmium chloride used during the production of solar panels, and is both a cheaper and less toxic alternative.
Japan Solar Power Network to add 29 MW of rooftop solar
The Tokyo-based distributed power generation company has partnered with Beisia Corporation to fit 33 buildings with rooftop PV systems totaling 29 MW.
Conergy to build its second Philippines PV power plant
While it may be finding the going tough in established PV markets, Conergy continues to build on its strong reputation and track record in Southeast Asia. The latest announcement is that it is to build a 8 MW power plant in the Philippines, its second in the country.
Windiga Energy plans inaugural PV plant for Burkina Faso
The Canadian renewable energy company plans to construct a 20 MW solar plant in the African nation, having signed an investment support agreement with its government.
ZNShine Solar signs $680 million PV deal as UK-China bond strengthens
During the visit of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to the UK to meet British Prime Minister David Cameron, China’s ZNShine Solar secured a $680 million deal with UK’s MAP Environmental.
Canadian Solar agrees 140 MW EPC contract with Samsung
The deal represents the largest EPC agreement in Canada’s history, and will culminate in the creation of a 140 MW solar plant for the city of Kingston.
Singulus Technologies picks up 15 million CIGS order from Hanergy
German equipment supplier Singulus announced today that it has picked up a 15 million order (US$20.4) from Hanergy Solar Group for CIGS production tooling. The purchase signals that Hanergy may be beginning to move towards installing some of the tooling it requires to realize its ambitious manufacturing capacity plans.
UK solar power generation increases 77% in 12 months
While the U.K.’s main energy companies are accused of profiteering, solar has assumed a larger role in the country’s energy landscape despite impending subsidy cuts.
Niche PV markets to grow to 1.2 GW in a decade, says Lux Research
Led by steady growth in the building integrated photovoltaics sector, niche solar markets will prove a steady growth path for thin-film suppliers over the next ten years.
Chronic under-utilization in Indian PV manufacturing, study finds
India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has released figures that show only 297 MW of the country’s 1.38 GW solar cell production capacity is currently under operation. The situation is only slightly better for the solar module sector.
