SMA suffers price pressure in all markets and segments
Last year, the German inverter maker achieved record shipments, despite a decline in turnover. The company expects further price pressure in 2017.
SolarWorld seeks to drastically reduce costs
The German PV module maker has confirmed its financial results for 2016. The company reiterated its outlook, which forecasts that it will become profitable again in 2019.
Eurotron’s sister company opens testing facility for back-contact solar in the Netherlands
Eurolab, a sister company of Netherlands-based equipment provider Eurotron, has opened a new testing facility for back-contact PV modules. The laboratory will facilitate pre-production of back-contact solar panels, R&D projects, and small-scale production for solar challenge teams
QSTec begins manufacturing activities at polysilicon factory in Qatar
The Qatar-based polysilicon manufacturer has begun producing polysilicon at its factory in Doha. The facility has a current annual production capacity of 8,000 MT, but QSTec confirmed its plans to expand it to 50,000 MT.
Tindo Solar, Australia’s only panel manufacturer, sold to SA company with big plans
Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer, Adelaide-based company Tindo Solar, has been bought by a local insulation company turned solar installer, Cool or Cosy, as part of a plans to create the largest solar retailer in Australia.
PV Crystalox posts lower shipments and revenue for 2016, closes UK ingot production
The UK-based polycrystalline wafer manufacturer posted a decrease in shipments and revenue in 2016. Its UK ingot production is expected to be closed this year due to “deteriorated” market conditions.
Meyer Burger keeps working on turnaround plan
The Swiss equipment provider saw its turnover increase significantly in 2016. This growth is due to increasing investments in upgrading technologies and capacity expansion in the PV industry.
Four more Chinese solar manufacturers withdraw from minimum price agreement
Jetion Solar, Hareon Solar and GCL Technology requested to withdraw from the minimum price agreement in October. The three companies, as well as Talesun Solar, are now excluded by Brussels from the undertaking.
Solar demand is boosting silver prices, says Silver Institute
Two different reports highlight how PV demand is currently improving silver’s industrial offtake. The Silver Institute says that prices have increased 9% since the beginning of this year, while ETF Securities says that mining capital expenditure and investments are declining, and that this could further weigh on silver supply.
Yingli Green Energy forms special committee for resolution of debt issues
Chinese tier-1 solar manufacturer Yingli Green Energy today announced the formation of a committee of independent directors to assess the company’s situation. The committee will recommend strategic improvements and alternatives, in order to improve Yingli’s debt structure.
