EU lowers Chinese PV import volume
In responding to lower installation forecasts in Europe, Brussels has reduced the import volume for photovoltaic manufacturers from China from 7 to 5.8 GW this year.
China Sunergy boosts revenue, narrows loss in 2013
The Nanjing-based company shipped a total of 235.8 MW in the fourth quarter, beating forecasts. CEO Stephen Cai attributes the company’s improved performance on its operational flexibility, cost control efforts and entry into new markets.
Crisis in Ukraine threatens domestic PV industry
The political crisis in Ukraine is threatening to hollow out the country’s nascent PV industry as the world awaits the outcome of Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
Romania adds 850 MW in past eight months despite incentive cuts
The country is also increasingly working with Turkey on a number of ambitious energy projects, including a plans to build 1 GW of capacity and a 450-kilometer-long submarine electricity line connecting the two countries.
German equipment manufacturers expect sales increase of more than 25%
Germany’s PV equipment and plant manufacturers are cautiously optimistic and expecting a 25 percent increase in revenue this year despite lacking a plan to ensure their competitiveness in the medium term.
First Solar radiates confidence as stock price rises 20%
Monthly stock report shows impressive uptick for the Arizona company, while SunPower continues to create a buzz.
China, Japan shore up global market as Europe declines
The rapid expansion of the solar market in China and Japan is off-setting the decline across Europe, according to analysts IHS.
Manz posts record revenues despite sector contraction
The German plant manufacturer posts 266.2 million revenues for 2013, driven by growth in the display and semiconductor sectors. CEO calls for active industry PV policy in Germany.
SMA suffers 36% sales drop in 2013
Despite retaining its position as the world’s leading inverter company with 5.4 GW sold, SMA suffered a sales horror-show last year in the wake of European PV contraction.
Renewable energy milestones reported in UK and California
Californian utility PG&E sourced 22.5% of its power from renewable sources in 2013, while the average U.K. share hit a record 13.8%.
