SolarWorld calls for focused response
SolarWorld president Gordon Brinser has called for a more focused response to illegal trade incursions. He is pushing for a “halftime in America” review of tactics to offset “trade predation” on U.S. manufacturing.
SunPower introduces 24 percent Maxeon Solar Cell
U.S. cell and module manufacturer SunPower Corp. has announced that its 160 mm, 24 percent Maxeon solar cell is now in commercial production.
Italy: The wait for the next Conto Energia
The fourth Conto Energia may be replaced by a fifth Conto Energia this spring/summer, or so some investors speculate. Whether the fifth Conto really gets implemented, however, and the reprecussions for solar subsidies, remain open questions.
Siemens wins second order in India
Siemens Energy has been awarded the second order to supply UVAC 2010 solar receivers for the Megha parabolic trough power plant project in Andhra Pradesh, India.
Australia: Queensland Premier axes environmental funds
The new premier of Queensland Liberal National Party’s (LNP) Campbell Newman plans to axe the state’s climate change and renewable energy programs, including funds allocated for solar flagship programs.
Upsolar expands into the Balkans
Upsolar has partnered with Plan-net Solar in installing a 1.2 megawatt rooftop photovoltaic system in Slovenia. This is the company’s largest system in the country to date.
IGEE: R&D and production equipment a key focus for Korean PV industry
The 9th International Green Energy Expo 2012 (IGEE) kicked off today, March 28, in Daegu, South Korea. In contrast to the two solar events held in Shanghai, China last week, the exhibitors, including Korea’s heavyweights, were out in force. There are mixed feelings however, over the future of the Korean solar industry. On the one side is a clear lack of political support and on the other, a stark focus on research and development, and equipment. Many capacity ramp ups have also been put on hold.
A growing global smart grid market
Smart grids are set to grow as Pike Research’s report shows. Meanwhile Echelon Corporation has announced two micro grid deployments in India and South Africa that will integrate distributed generation to compensate disruptions in utility-supplied power.
US: Calico project sued
The U.S. Department of the Interior is being sued by Defenders of Wildlife, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Sierra Club with the claim that the proposed Calico project in California does not meet basic environmental protection requirements and threatens imperiled wildlife.
Germany: Revised photovoltaic draft
The revised draft for the changes in the solar subsidies calls for some serious changes. The cuts remain though.
