China considers raising PV target to over 25 GW
According to industry analyst, Jefferies, China is mulling the possibility of again raising its 2015 photovoltaic target to over 25 GW. Meanwhile, it says feed-in tariff troubles have arisen, which may affect internal rates of return (IRRs), and that a state owned enterprise merger could be on the cards for LDK Solar.
Amonixs fab closure stokes PV political fires
In the highly politicized debate surrounding renewable energy in the U.S., the closure of concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) manufacturer Amonixs Nevada fab has cause much debate among lawmakers.
First Solar receives Ex-Im bank boost
The U.S. Export-Import bank has authorized two loans worth US$57.3 million to support the development of three photovoltaic power plants in India, which will use First Solar thin film modules.
Sunways ends Deutsch Solar wafer contracts early
Sunways AG has announced it will end two long term photovoltaic wafer contracts with Deutsche Solar GmbH early, following agreement by both parties. The decision has been attributed to the current market conditions.
REC confident despite recording significant Q2 EBIT loss
REC looks to be in a good position following its new credit and issuance of new shares. Despite this, impairment charges related to the company’s fixed assets at its manufacturing facility in Singapore have significantly impacted its second quarter (Q2) financial results.
Sovello announces significant job cuts
The insolvent Sovello AG has said that 475 of its employees will be let go. Meanwhile, negotiations are underway with “seriously” interested Asian investors. However, it is not clear if they will be concluded before August 1.
US: Federal-backed Amonix closes CPV facility
According to media reports, U.S.-based concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) company, Amonix has closed its manufacturing plant down in North Las Vegas. The company was said to have been subsidized by more than US$20 million in federal tax credits and grants.
Australia: Infigen to build PV integrated energy storage demonstration project
Infigen has begun work on a one MW photovoltaic and energy storage plant in Australias New South Wales. A first for both the company and the country, the demonstration project aims to pave the way for future utility-scale projects.
PV module price declines ease
Due to improved demand, photovoltaic module price declines are expected to ease slightly in the second half (2H) of 2012. Meanwhile, global installations are forecast to reach 30.2 GW this year. Overcapacity is still a dominant theme, however.
3.9 GW of PV projects acquired in 2011
Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) has published figures showing that a record number of photovoltaic projects were purchased last year, worth approximately US$10.8 billion. BNEF found that “approved and operating” projects were seen as high yield investments.
