Saudi’s Zahid takes major stake in German PV company Greencells
The Zahid Group has invested an undisclosed amount in Germany-based Greencells. A key focus for the latter will now be hybrid systems in the APAC and African regions. An update on the 1.2 GW Sweihan solar project in Abu Dhabi was also given.
India imposes 25% safeguard duty on solar imports
The Indian government has imposed a safeguard duty of 25% on solar imports from China and Malaysia for two years. The Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue) levied the duty based on the final recommendations proposed by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR). While most industry players are dismayed, believing project costs could “immediately” go up by 15%, others are more optimistic.
SunPower to shift IBC solar production to new technology
The PV maker plans to shift its 800 MW of E-Series production to its new NGT technology, as it records a massive loss on depreciation of its old equipment. The move was revealed in second-quarter figures featuring plenty of red ink.
Indian government body recommends 25% tariff on Chinese and Malaysian cells, modules
Phased import tariff would fall to 20% 12 months after introduction and 15% for final six months of a proposed two-year period. Industry watchers say the cost of Indian solar energy could rise by up to 30%.
Solar glass: European PV module manufacturers fear being “taken hostage”
Currently, new anti-dumping proceedings against solar glass makers from Malaysia are taking place in the EU. Imports of Chinese solar glass have been subject to high anti-subsidy and anti-dumping duties since 2014. The European module manufacturers fear further massive competitive disadvantages and the danger of an Interfloat monopoly in Europe.
Hanwha Q Cells opening 1.6 GW-plus module assembly facility in the US
The South Korean group will start construction of the factory, in Whitfield County, Georgia, this year, with completion slated for 2019
Meyer Burger secures $16 million equipment order from Asia
Meyer Burger Technology Ltd has secured a CHF 16million (US$16.3 million) order from an unidentified Asian customer for its MAiA and FABiA cell coating equipment. It is the first industrial order for the latter platform, says the company.
Malaysia’s Tenaga awards another six PPAs for 180 MW of solar
The 21-year PPAs are the latest in a series of projects and supply deals that have been announced by the Malaysian power utility in recent months.
Tenaga Nasional signs PPAs for 60 MW in Malaysia
Tenaga Nasional Bhd. has signed power purchase agreements (PPAs) for two large-scale, grid-connected solar projects in Malaysia.
SunPower’s exemption filing strikes to heart of trade dispute
The company, noting its substantial investment in U.S. research and development as well as tools, has further hinted that it may establish U.S. manufacturing for its P-Series modules.
