Czech Republic: PV module take-back and recycling cooperation
PV Cycle and Czech collective scheme Retela are collaborating on module take-back and recycling in the Czech Republic. PV Cycle hopes to serve the value chain better with Retela’s expertise for PV waste execution in the country.
BMW and Solarwatt announce partnership
BMW has said it wants to offer its customers, in cooperation with Solarwatt, complete photovoltaic systems in the future. The concept, “360° Electric” aims to provide solutions for all customer requirements on the topic of electric mobility.
Yingli signs $165 million loan agreement with CDB
Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited has signed two loan agreements with the China development Bank (CDB) worth US$165 million.
Germany: Avancis in negotiations to stop production at second CIGS facility
Avancis GmBH is currently in negotiations with the workers council to temporarily stop production at its Fab 2 CIGS production facility in Torgau, Germany. Up to 220 workers will be affected by the decision, which is expected to come into effect this June.
Fox Energy to produce modules for SunEdison
MEMC Singapore has signed a manufacturing services agreement with Fox Energy, the PV production wing of Foxconn Technology, to manufacture up to 350 MW of solar modules for MEMC Electronic Materials subsidiary, SunEdison.
Canadian anti-dumping investigation launched against Chinese silicon metal
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has initiated investigations this week into silicon metal exported from China. The investigations follow a complaint filed by Québec Silicon Limited Partnership of Bécancour, Québec, operated by Globe Speciality Metals.
Gauss Energía unveils 30 MW Mexico PV plans
Gauss Energía, a business development firm specialized in Mexicos energy sector, has announced it will launch into operation its US$100 million 30 MW Aura Solar I photovoltaic plant this August. It is expected to be the largest photovoltaic plant in Latin America when complete.
Enel to add 55 MW of PV capacity in Romania and 21 MW in Italy
In its 2013 to 2017 business plan, Enel Green Power states its aim to install 55 MW of photovoltaic capacity in Romania, and 21 MW in Italy by 2017.
Continued low booking levels for equipment manufacturers [Updated]
SEMI has released the “4Q12 Worldwide Photovoltaic Equipment Market Statistics Report” with global PV equipment billings and bookings data. The report shows that billings and bookings remain low. Asia dominated sales with China taking the lead.
Surviving the PV module downturn until 2015
NPD Solarbuzz’s latest report shows that a module market downturn and further consolidation are to be expected until 2014. Recovery is forecasted to begin in 2015. Surviving the downturn phase will be a key objective for manufacturers.
