Low worldwide bookings for PV equipment in the first quarter
Global trade association Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) has released their 2013 first quarter statistics report on the worldwide photovoltaics equipment market. Billings and bookings numbers still look sombre.
China's STGCON, German CEO battle for Asola's future
The battle for German module manufacturer and automobile applications maker Asola has been raging for months. Shanghai-based STGCON Group has now announced that it intends to turn Asola Solarpower into a European development center for energy storage, management and charging systems. In parallel insolvency proceedings, Asola Solarpower’s chief executive hopes to soon conclude an agreement with a German investor for the company’s automotive segment.
SMA to downsize massively
SMA has announced today that it will inform its employees of the necessary personnel adjustments as a response to the difficult solar market situation. SMA plans to gradually downsize its full-time employee pool by 700 in Germamy by end of 2014.
Desert Technologies exploring opportunities in Saudi Arabia and beyond
Interview: Nabih Cherradi, chief technology officer at Saudi Arabian renewable energy group Desert Technologies, discusses Saudi Arabia’s ambitious sustainable energy plans and the growing opportunities in the Kingdom for local as well as international companies.
Desertec pulls out of consortium it founded
Future of visionary project to generate energy from the world’s deserts cast into doubt by founding organization’s withdrawal. Press release announcing decision refers to ‘management crisis and disorientation of the industrial consortium’ that foundation had established.
[UPDATE] Desertec founder explains reasons for Dii split
Industrial consortium’s communications problems exemplified when Desertec members read an online news story stating plans to sell Saharan energy to Europe may be altered. Foundation’s co-founder says visionary group will continue their work to drive renewables development. Dii responds to move.
Solar Frontier restarts full production at Miyazaki plant
Facing increasing demand for thin film CIS modules, Solar Frontier has restarted production at its Miyazaki No. 2 Plant.
Conergy reportedly in talks with Asian investor
Germany’s Conergy AG is reportedly in negotiations with a potential investor from Asia who may be willing to invest up to 50 million for a 30% stake in the company if banks accept a new deal.
Solar Frontier expands module production capacity
Japanese manufacturer will re-open Miyazaki plant. Company is also set to unveil a new type of thin film module imminently.
Construction starts at Macho Springs
New Mexico’s largest solar project is set to be completed by May 2014. First Solar scheme will sell energy to El Paso Electric under 20-year PPA.
