Renewable energy VC funding to triple
A new report, released today by Frost & Sullivan, has predicted that venture capital (VC) funding to renewable energy technologies is set to triple by 2020. The analysts report that this is due to, “environmental support for lower carbon footprint, and innovation in renewable energy technologies.”
Meyer Burger to cut workforce further
Meyer Burger Technology Ltd has announced it will cut around 250 jobs across the group. The Swiss company has already reduced its workforce by around 500 this year. The challenging photovoltaic market conditions have been cited as the reason.
345 million investment secured for Moroccos Ouarzazate solar project
The first 125 to 160 MW phase of the 500 MW Ouarzazate solar project has secured 345 million in funding from Europe. It is expected to be operational by 2015. Meanwhile, sources report that a US$1 billion PPA has been secured for the project.
US: Georgia Powers solar initiative approved
The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved Georgia Powers Advanced Solar Initiative (GPASI). Overall, the utility aims to acquire 210 MW of solar power over the next two years.
Solar Millennium transfers 26% stake in 50 MW Spanish solar project to STEAG
The insolvent Solar Millennium AG has officially transferred its 26% stake in the 50 MW Arenales Spanish solar project to Germanys STEAG 1 Beteiligungsgesellschaft GmbH.
US announces Asia-Pacific energy partnership
The Presidents of the U.S. and Indonesia, and the Sultan of Brunei have proposed the formation of U.S.-Asia Pacific Comprehensive Partnership for a Sustainable Energy Future. Under the partnership, the U.S. has said it will provide up to US$6 billion in support.
Germanys Altmaier sees benefits of PV cuts
Germanys Environment Minister expects new photovoltaic capacity additions to halve in 2013. These expectations would fall in line with the governments annual expansion plans.
Australias Solmessis claims proposed 80 MW PV plant close to grid parity
Australian developer Solmessis claims its proposed flagship project, located in the northern state of Queensland, will be all but commercially viable even without government financial incentives or subsidies.
Chile: Another 123 MW worth of PV projects on the table
Chiles environmental evaluation commission, SEA has approved an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the 30.24 MW thin film La Tirana Solar photovoltaic plant. Meanwhile, SunEdison Chile has initiated environmental licensing for its 93.65 MW Llano de Llampos photovoltaic plant.
Renewable energy the cheapest option for off-grid power
An influential lobby group, which counts energy policymakers of 102 governments plus the E.U. among its members, has produced a costing analysis that concludes renewable energy should be the default option for providing electricity to the millions of people in the world without grid access.
