Indian solar industry off to a successful 2011, but bankability issues exist
According to the latest Indian Solar Compass, India’s solar industry has got off to a successful start this year, with a large number of power purchase agreements (PPAs) having been signed. However, bankability continues to be an issue.
Swiss solar association demands more PV energy
Swissolar is demanding immediate removal of the ceiling on feed-in tariffs. It adds that subsidies should be designed based on the German model, in order to achieve a similarly dynamic market and to increase photovoltaic share to 20 percent by 2025.
US: CPUC approves PG&Es 150 MW PPA
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved Pacific Gas & Electrics 20-year contract to purchase 150 megawatts (MW) of solar power from Sempra Generations Mesquite Solar 1 facility in Arizona, the U.S.
Solar Junction hits 43.5 percent CPV cell efficiency
Solar Junction has reached 43.5 percent efficiency on a commercial-ready concentrated photovoltaic production cell. The news comes just two months after it achieved an efficiency of 41.4 percent.
Bruce Sohn to leave First Solar
First Solar, Inc. President of Operations, Bruce Sohn, will be leaving the company, effective April 30, 2011. According to Rob Gillette, CEO, it is a “natural time for him” to pursue other opportunities. He will not be replaced.
Standardization, policy stability and competing with the 'big boys'
The first day of the side event of the 3rd Thin Film Week, Solarpraxiss Thin-Film Industry Forum started off rainy in Adlershof, but full of buzz. The packed hall at the Wista Management convention center in the Southeast of Berlin saw participants from all segments of the thin film production line.
Suntech named as top PV module supplier; JA Solar as number one cell producer
China-based Suntech has been named in IMS Researchs rankings as the largest photovoltaic module supplier in 2010. Thin film manufacturer First Solar was consequently knocked back to second place. Meanwhile, JA Solar hit the top spot for cell production.
VC solar funding soars
The first quarter of this year has seen strong venture capital (VC) funding in the solar sector, having increased almost three fold from the fourth quarter of 2010. Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity is also strong.
CIPV Expo 2011 in review: Growth on the agenda
The CIPV Expo 2011 took place last week in Beijing, China. With big ambitions for the future, thin film and building-integrated photovoltaics were a key focus. Switzerland and the U.S. were also prominently featured.
Meyer Burger sets its sights on Roth & Rau
Meyer Burger Technology AG has acquired an 11.3 percent stake in Roth & Rau AG, and has announced a voluntary public takeover offer of 22 for each remaining share held by public shareholders.
