First Solar achieves CdTe efficiency record; misses 2012 sales guidance
First Solar has achieved a CdTe photovoltaic cell conversion efficiency of 18.7% in the lab. Meanwhile, although the company recorded impressive Q4 financial figures, the thin film manufacturer missed its revised 2012 net sales guidance, and recorded a number of FY losses.
Isofotón expands solar activities in Kazakhstan and Honduras
Embarking on the next stage of its internationalization path, Isofotón has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop photovoltaic projects and a polysilicon facility in Kazakhstan; and an agreement to install a 150 MW project in Honduras.
PV equipment association to cooperate with Saudi solar industry
The International PV Equipment Association (IPVEA) has entered into a mutual cooperation agreement with the Saudi Arabia Solar Industry Association (SASIA). The aim is to promote the benefits of photovoltaics in the MENA region and share knowledge.
Activ Solar completes 29.3 MW PV plant in Ukraine
Activ Solar has commissioned a 29.3 MW photovoltaic plant in the Mykolaiv region of southern Ukraine.
PV Expo Tokyo: Solar spring continues
The sixth PV Expo Tokyo kicked off today, February 26, with optimism. The worlds most generous photovoltaic FITs, coupled with a high environmental awareness, continue to lure many international solar companies to Japan. Insiders at the event expect new photovoltaic installations to top three to four GW this year.
Deutsche Bank: Sustainable solar market expected in 2014
Buoyed by bullish demand forecasts, and increasing utilization rates and pricing, Deutsche Bank forecasts a solar market transition from subsidized to sustainable in 2014.
VDE and Fraunhofer to take on US PV power plant certification market
Germany’s Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies, VDE, has announced the establishment of a U.S.-based subsidiary, VDE Americas in Silicon Valley. The goal is to “meet investor demand for solar PV power plant quality assurance.”
US announces $27 million in solar funding
Under its SunShot Initiative, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced that up to US$15 million will be paid out to the solar manufacturing industry. It has also made up to $12 million available under the Solar Rooftop Challenge II.
Trina continues to see net losses
Trina Solar Limited sustained significant losses throughout 2012. While photovoltaic module shipments performed favorably, revenues failed to increase compared to the previous year. Both an imbalance in supply and demand, and “aggressive” pricing strategies have been blamed. On a positive note, Trina expects shipments to increase by as much as 30% in 2013.
Conergy completes PV plants in Spain sans subsidies
Conergy has completed a total of 14 photovoltaic plants in Spain since last autumn, which are said to be competitive without subsidies. A new calculation tool is assisting in the planning and implementation of such projects.
