Russia considers solar power for planes
Russias Ministry of Industry and Trade (Minpromtorg) has ordered several studies into fuel alternatives for its civilian aircraft industry, including solar energy. Around RUB628 million (US$ 21 million; 15.5 million) has reportedly been earmarked for the research.
Wacker sees increasing polysilicon demand
Wacker Chemie AG has reinstated full time working hours at its German polysilicon factory following increased demand.
Panasonic hits 24.7% cell efficiency
The Panasonic Corporation has claimed what it says is a world record for a crystalline silicon-based photovoltaic cell of a “practical size” with an efficiency of 24.7%. Japans Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology has evaluated the efficiency.
Mexico reaches 14 MW of PV installations
Mexico has reported a cumulative installed photovoltaic capacity of 14 MW almost double that of 2011. Growth is projected to continue on the same trajectory this year.
UK hits 2 GW of PV
Figures released today from NPD Solarbuzz have shown that cumulative photovoltaic demand from the U.K. market has now hit 2 GW. 2012 saw close to 1 GW of demand.
Norway: New chairman offers hope for REC
A typically horrendous set of fourth-quarter and full year figures from Norwegian solar manufacturer Renewable Energy Corporation (REC) was enough to see off chairman Jens Ulltveit-Moe. HIs replacement, Mimi K Berdal told pv magazine she is confident the market will turn she just doesnt know when.
World passes 100 GW installed PV capacity mark
Behind the headline news from the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) that the world has passed the 100 GW mark in cumulative installed photovoltaic capacity, is the ongoing story of a shift away from Europe.
US: Quanta EPC on 40 MW California PV parks
Houston, Texas-based Quanta Services Inc has won an EPC contract for solar parks in Kings and Tulare counties in California.
India: Kerala unveils 10,000 PV rooftop program
The Indian state of Kerala has unveiled a program aimed at installing 10,000 one kW rooftop photovoltaic systems. The initiative was launched today by Indias Minister for New and Renewable Energy.
13 offgrid PV projects in Sierra Leone
Laos-based Sunlabob Renewable Energy has been awarded two contracts for the design, supply, installation and local training for 13 turnkey solar PV plants in Sierra Leone.
