US government slates $30 million for new hybrid solar solutions
The U.S. Department of Energy has announced 12 projects that will share $30 million to develop solar hybrid solutions that generate and store solar power when the sun is not shining.
Indian state of Tamil Nadu lowers solar roadmap target
Local energy experts have welcomed the tweak, which relieves the burden on high energy consumers and instead puts the onus to meet solar targets on the state utility.
Tokyo elects pro-nuclear governor
It is unclear what the election signifies for the Japanese solar industry. A pro-nuclear stance could mean a regression of generous solar FITs but it could also be an endorsement of the regime that introduced them.
Suntech steps up debt collection effort
The liquidated remnant of Suntech is owed $264m by the Singapore subsidiary it relinquished to Shunfeng Photovoltaic. Suntech’s liquidators are now poring over details of the Shunfeng acquisition.
Polysilicon demand to rise 25% in 2014
Module shipping expectations of 49 GW this year is driving demand, according to NPD Solarbuzz, which predicts the reduction in the amount of polysilicon needed per watt will continue but at a reduced rate.
SunEdison to close polysilicon fab in Italy
As part of its global restructuring plans to reduce costs and maintain competitiveness, the U.S. company will also consolidate its semiconductor crystal operations.
Recurrent Energy tops off 88 MW portfolio
U.S. solar developer Recurrent has finished work on five projects in Southern California and one in Arizona. The portfolio was acquired by Google and KKR in November.
REC Solar to focus on commercial market
REC Solar will continue to serve the commercial sector after it was announced that the U.S. solar company’s residential operations were recently acquired by Sunrun.
Bombardier given green light for 3.8 MW PV installation in Belfast
The rooftop array will be installed at the company’s wing-assembly plant in Northern Ireland as part of Bombardiers renewable energy focus.
Taiwanese cell makers fear duties amid booming demand
Cell and wafer manufacturers in Taiwan are reporting record figures. But the industry is reportedly concerned about moves by Chinese module makers to represent it in talks with the U.S. authorities.
