US solar deployment hits lowest level in two years (w/ charts)
Slowing residential solar markets, higher prices for components and a push-back of project completions were the perfect storm in Q3, however the U.S. market managed to remain above 2 GW.
MIT researchers observe effects of climate on solar cell performance
Scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a tool to predict solar cell performance at any location worldwide. The tool utilizes a combination of global weather data gathered by satellite and cell performance data from two different locations.
US C&I storage rankings place Stem, Green Charge and AMS at top
In the increasingly competitive commercial-and-industrial storage market, IHS Markit expects the segment to grow 10-fold over the next five years – and ranks the companies that will lead the charge.
ET Solar Inc. files for bankruptcy
A U.S. module sales subsidiary of the Chinese PV module maker and developer has quietly filed for bankruptcy. Details are sparse, but the parent company’s U.S. project development and construction subsidiary has not been affected.
Fitch: Despite policy concerns, outlook stable for US renewables
The credit ratings agency says that despite moves by the Trump Administration, the increasing competitiveness and predictable output of renewable energy still makes it a good bet.
Utilities are increasingly planning for energy storage (w/ charts)
GTM Research reports that utilities in 15 states are incorporating energy storage into their long-term plans, as energy storage deployment reached a relatively even keel during Q3 2017.
EIA: US solar output increases 47% in 2017
The latest monthly report from the Department of Energy’s Energy Information Agency shows that U.S. PV output in the first nine months of 2017 grew 47% over the same period in 2016, with market growth across the nation. PV represented 1.9% of total generation during this period.
All in: Utility PG&E signs energy storage deals totaling 165 MW
The most recent contracts, which still need to be approved by California regulators, are part of a state-mandated goal of adding 580 MW of storage by 2020.
First Solar produces first S6 module, seals 800 MW of deals
The first modules have rolled off the line in Ohio as part of First Solar’s $1.4 billion dollar bet on its large-format Series 6. The company will also expand production in Vietnam.
Updated: Silfab, Morgan Solar JV targets 30% module cost reductions, plans large-scale production
In a unique partnership, the two Canadian companies are set to integrate low concentration optic technology into standard solar PV modules, in a move which they say will see cost savings of up to 30% and a silicon reduction of up to 80%. A “significant” factory ramp up is underway, with large-scale plans in the pipeline.
