Centrotherm files for Chapter 11 insolvency protection
Yet another German company has been forced to file for insolvency protection. Centrotherm photovoltaics AG announced that it has submitted an application to file for self-administrative insolvency. Despite this, business is said to be continuing as usual.
US: PV installers emerge as "favorable" investment area
Solar M&A activity in the U.S. has tailed off this year compared to 2011, according to the latest figures. Despite this, photovoltaic project installers have reportedly emerged as a favorable investment area. Furthermore, energy storage M&A activity is said to have enjoyed strong growth.
Global solar investment strong, says BNEF
Investment in the solar industry continues to grow, despite continued economic pressure. Publishing its latest findings, BNEF said that of the US$59.6 billion invested in the global clean energy sector in the second quarter (Q2) of 2012, solar accounted for $33.6 billion. Meanwhile, the importance of small-scale projects is said to be increasing.
$2 million grant awarded to develop PV-integrated storage solutions
Satcon Technology Corporation, A123 Systems, Renewable Energy Services, and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) have been awarded US$2 million by the California Energy Commission to work on the development of storage technologies that will help reduce renewable energy power intermittency.
German PV equipment Q1 sales fall
According to the latest figures, German manufacturers sales’ of photovoltaic components, machinery and equipment fell 54 percent in the first quarter (Q1) of 2012. The sales share of Asian customers is also said to be on the decline.
Work underway on 50 MW German PV plant
Parabel AG has begun work on its next large-scale photovoltaic project in Germany. In addition to installing 50 MW by this September, the company is aiming to add a further 80 MW over the next two years.
California: 8minutenergy, ISO and SDG&E sign 200 MW PV GIA
8minutenergy Renewables has signed a Generation Interconnection Agreement (GIA) with the California Independent Systems Operator Corporation (ISO) and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). Under the agreement, a 200 MW photovoltaic project will be installed in Imperial Valley.
Activ Solar completes 42 MW PV plant in Ukraine
Adding yet more capacity to its Ukrainian photovoltaic portfolio, Activ Solar has completed the second and final phase of its 42.95 MW plant in the Odessa region.
