Asia

A new report from the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) shows that PV has not been growing significantly in Indonesia in recent years, despite the size of its energy market and economy. According to its authors, however, there are multiple paths that can be followed to bring volumes into all market segments. Large scale solar is expected to play a major role in the years to come, as the LCOE for big floating projects is approaching levels close to those of more mature markets.

The 5x5cm device was developed by a Japanese research group. The thickness of the perovskite films was increased to reduce defects and pinholes and this was achieved by adding ammonium chloride to the lead iodine solution used in the formation of the films. The device was able to work for 1,600 hours at more than 80% of this efficiency.

The polysilicon manufacturer yesterday extended the deadline for postponing settlement of the investments until Friday – with the notes set to expire on Saturday.

Singareni Collieries, an Indian state-run coal miner, plans to set up a 300 MW floating PV plant on a reservoir in the Indian state of Telangana.

Furthermore, Risen predicts its solar module shipments will reach 15 GW this year and Sze Tan Hung has increased her stake in solar cell and panel maker Solargiga.

IHS Markit is predicting the world will add 30% more solar capacity this year.

Shunfeng International is already overdue on debts of $381 million and a deadline for investors holding GCL-Poly senior notes worth $500 million to agree to postpone payment is due to expire today as the company prepares to vote on a $309 million, 430 MW solar project sell-off.

Due to forced labor concerns, a ban on imports from Xinjiang to the United States appears likely. This could be another blow for polysilicon producers hit by industrial accidents and the threat of floods in the third quarter of 2020. Chinese polysilicon prices have surged more than 50% in a matter of a months. Consequently, wafer prices have skyrocketed, bringing increasing costs to the solar cell and PV module segments. In the face of price hikes, some projects are now postponed until the first half of 2021.

GUVNL, an electric utility in the Indian state of Gujarat, is seeking project proposals through competitive bidding, followed by a reverse auction. Bidding closes on Feb. 23.

The company’s integrated tracker manufacturer Nclave developed a new system designed primarily for large-form factor modules and with a new algorithm that promises to boost yield in diffuse light conditions.