China retaliates, finds US in violation of free-trade rules
According to Bloomberg, Chinas Ministry of Commerce has identified five U.S. states which have violated free-trade rules. Meanwhile, Reuters reports that the trade case looks likely to move to Europe.
CIS/CIGS: Diversity delivers opportunities and challenges
A new report into the CIS/CIGS photovoltaic manufacturing market, by market and technology analysts Yole Développement, has concluded that while a number of small copper indium gallium (di)selenide (CIGS) manufacturers are likely not to survive present market conditions, opportunities still remain.
PV profitability could be achieved by raising prices just 1 percent
Price is crucial and will remain the most important driver, according to a new study. Raising prices for photovoltaic modules by one or two percent would see a return to profitability for some of the major solar players, and is “more realistic” than selling more megawatts. Localized sales teams and partner programs are also identified as key.
Q.Cells and CCC realize PV plant in Abu Dhabi
Germany-based Q.Cells SE and Greek Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) have realized a 368 kilowatt peak (kWp) off-grid rooftop photovoltaic system in the desert in Abu Dhabi. It is said to be the first project of its kind in the UAE.
France: Total and SunPower commission 44 MWp module plant
Oil giant Total, and its affiliate, U.S.-based SunPower have commissioned a new photovoltaic module factory in eastern France.
UK FIT cuts to take effect from August
For a second time this year, the U.K. government has revealed a new photovoltaic feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme, aimed at establishing a more “predictable, certain and sustainable” industry. Under the changes, a new 16 pence (p) FIT will be introduced from August 1. According to STA, there are now provisions to install 800 MW to one GW annually.
China's PV manufacturers launch new alliance in response to trade case ruling
CEOs from Chinas four largest photovoltaic manufacturers were gathered today, May 24, at a press conference in Shanghai, China, to launch the Solar Energy Promotion Alliance and comment on the latest U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) ruling regarding the dumping of crystalline silicon cells in the U.S. market.
Australia: SilexSolar closes manufacturing operations
In a sign of continued consolidation, Australian photovoltaic module manufacturer SilexSolar announced today that it will permanently close its manufacturing operations. The move will cost around AUD10 million (US$9.77 million).
Germany installs 1.8 GW PV in Q1
Germanys Federal Network Agency has once again quietly released the new photovoltaic installation capacities. Overall 1.8 gigawatts (GW) were installed in the country in the first quarter (Q1) of 2012.
Odersun likely to permanently close
Hopes that Germany-based Odersun AG will be saved are fading fast. Unless an investor is found by the end of the month, the company will be forced to shut down and its employees let go.
