Meeco Group unveils 30 MW Japan PV plans
The meeco Group has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Japans BIJ Corporation and Italy-based finergia advisory & finance. The aim is to install both on- and off-grid photovoltaic projects in Japan and its neighboring markets.
India contemplates new funding model for solar mission despite budget deficit fears
Indias Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has today said that a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model has been “envisaged” for the second phase of the countrys Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM). National budget deficit concerns are, however, throwing the viability of the program into question.
Portugal reaches 225.5 MW of installed PV capacity
Cumulative photovoltaic capacity in Portugal reached 225.5 MW at the end of 2012, according to a report published by the Portuguese energy regulator, DGGE (Direcção Geral de Energia e Geologia), on March 4.
Suntech takes over GSF fund ownership
Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd has reached a settlement regarding its fraud dispute with GSF Capital Pte Limited (GSF Capital). A part of the agreement has seen the Chinese photovoltaic manufacturer taking over ownership of the GSF Fund.
Financial markets "endorse" Obama DOE and EPA nominees
In Washington, DC, this week, Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Steven Chu and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Secretary Lisa Jackson officially vacated their seats in the Cabinet, leaving considerable baggage behind. The new nominees have been met with general approval, however.
Suntech exec chair swap branded "misconceived and unlawful"
Suntechs decision to replace founder and former CEO, Zhengrong Shi, with Susan Wang as executive chair of the Chinese companys board of directors has sparked an internal management struggle. Shi has branded the move both “misconceived and unlawful”. The news comes in the same month as Suntechs US$541 million bond payment.
Mexico: Work on 27 MW PV plant underway
Mexicos energy regulator, Comisión Reguladora de Energía (CRE) has issued a small producer generation permit to Grupotec Energy de Mexico for a 27.56 MWp photovoltaic farm. The generated electricity will be sold to the federal power company, Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE).
Italians plan PV parks and production facilities for Brazil
Astra Energia is planning to install at least 50 MW worth of photovoltaic parks in Brazil. Meanwhile, Real Watt Solar aims to invest US$376.5 million in the establishment of two photovoltaic manufacturing facilities.
Welspun achieves financial close on 130 MW Indian PV project
Welspun Energy Ltd has closed financing worth INR 8.85 billion on its 130 MW photovoltaic project, located in Madhya Pradesh, India.
Operations begin on 26 MW Borrego PV plant in California
Commercial operations are now underway on NRG Energy Inc.s 26 MW photovoltaic plant, located northeast of Borrego Springs, in California, the U.S. The generated electricity is being sold to San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E ) under a 25 year PPA.
