Group buying could make up for UK loss of export payments
With a group purchasing program securing hefty discounts for British households – and attracting thousands of potential customers as a result – solar has a viable business case no matter what further cuts the government throws at the industry.
Japan’s PV sector should focus on future energy mix target — report
The Japanese PV industry should respond to the government’s recent decision to leave its 2030 energy mix targets unchanged by pushing for a higher share of solar in the next version of the country’s strategic energy plan, according to a new report.
Kyocera reports falling revenues for solar business
Japanese electronics company & cell/module manufacturer, Kyocera has reported improved overall financials for the first quarter of the Japanese financial year, with a 12.3% increase in revenues. For the company’s activities in solar, however, signs are less encouraging.
Japan: Large-scale battery, project plans; auction update
Primearth EV Energy (PEVE) announces large-scale lithium-ion battery plans, Germany’s saferay receives financing for a 50 MW PV project, and RTS Corporation provides an update on Japan’s solar auctions.
EU-Japan trade deal first to include Paris Agreement provision
The EU alleges in its statement that the deal makes up for 28% of the global GDP and that the two blocks will focus on the development of clean energy innovations. This February, the EU Commission stated that future EU trade deals are contingent on Paris Agreement membership and have to include provisions regarding the fulfillment of the agreement.
Replacement for CdTe: Copper-nitride conductor for thin film discovered
A novel method developed in Tokyo, Japan, allows a nitride crystal to grow, which can function as both an n- and p-type conductor. The material can replace cadmium-telluride (CdTe) in thin films, and make such solar cells more environmentally friendly, while enabling greater efficiencies, the researchers claim.
Sonnedix secures financing for latest Japanese plant
JP Morgan-advised developer says it is on track to deliver 400 MW of capacity in Japan after announcing funding for 46.6 MW Tono project.
Kyocera to supply batteries, home energy systems for virtual power plant in Japan
Kyocera will participate in a new project in northern Japan to test how flexibly electricity suppliers can respond to fluctuations in energy supply and demand.
Intersolar Europe: Could Chinese setback mean a European comeback?
While tariffs may inhibit India’s ability to benefit from anticipated record low Chinese panel prices, Japan already has a strong pipeline and two of the world’s solar pioneers – Spain and Italy – could be given a shot in the arm by new administrations.
Japanese government must be more unified in pursuit of PV goals — report
The Japanese government is steadily working toward the release of the country’s fifth strategic energy plan, but it needs to work with the private sector more effectively to promote the deployment of solar over the coming decades, according to a new report.
