Renewables generation cheaper than coal for many power companies – but not yet for Eskom
An investor tool examining the coal fleets of major global power companies has offered up analysis which flies in the face of arguments solar and wind generation could help turn around the debt-saddled South African utility.
EU wants to know more about Eon’s bid to acquire Innogy
According to the Brussels authorities, the transaction could affect competition in the electricity and gas sectors. EU competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager wants to ensure there are no price increases as a result of the proposed takeover.
EU clean energy transition receives an €800 million boost
The funds will come from the Connecting Europe Facility. Around €504 million will be used for electricity infrastructure and smart grids and another €286 million will be devoted to gas. The remaining €9 million will be allocated to studies on the development of carbon dioxide transport infrastructure.
Europe moves further towards large-scale battery cell production
More than a dozen European ministers of economic affairs have released a statement setting out the next steps to turn Europe into an industrial hub for large-scale cell production. The role of SMEs and competition was highlighted as ministers said European cells should provide innovation in terms of raw material use and sustainability, hinting at a pivot away from lithium-ion.
Czech Republic may exclude PV from future renewables auctions
Once a leading European PV market, the Czech Republic may resume development of large-scale renewables from 2021. Only wind, hydro and biomass projects, however, will be eligible, under a proposal from the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Only rooftop solar, of up to 1 MW, would be backed by a ‘feed-in premium’ scheme.
Czech Republic launches new round of its Green Savings Programme
The scheme provides investment support for residential and commercial solar PV systems. The round’s deadline is April 30, 2018.
Jufa buys two PV plants totaling 17 MW in Czech Republic
Through this operation, the Czech investment firm has raised the capacity of its PV power plant portfolio to 69 MW.
Czech Republic sees 1 MW storage project, plans for 10 MW more
A 1.2 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) has been installed in the Czech Republic by Solar Global and Alfen. Plans for another, 10 MW, project have been revealed.
Czech solar association calls for policies to support industry growth
As Czech politicians negotiate to form a coalition government after the recent elections, the country’s solar association Solarni Asociace calls for stability, and warns incoming policymakers against the politicization of supporting for solar.
Czech storage market on the starting blocks
Storage systems with a combined capacity of up to 100 MW could be installed in the Czech Republic under a specific incentive program by 2020.
