Moldova plans to hold RE auctions in 2019 and 2020
The eastern European nation is being assisted by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development with the creation of tender documentation for renewable energy auctions.
Farewell to Spain’s solar tax
The Spanish Cabinet has approved a royal decree, which introduces a package of urgent measures to boost the country’s energy transition. It includes the already announced elimination of the “sun tax”, and other important measures, such as compliance with renewable energy objectives, electric vehicle adoption, reduced electricity prices, a social bonus for heating, consumer protection measures, and the extension of an electric social bond.
Nuclear power is being left behind, industry experts say
The 2018 edition of the Nuclear Industry Status Report (WNISR) reveals that nuclear power capacity grew by only 1% in 2017, while wind and solar saw their share increase by 17% and 35%, respectively. The report also recognizes that solar and wind are now the cheapest grid-connected sources of energy. Investments in new nuclear plants, on the other hand, are only being driven by public support, and by nuclear weapon states.
French research group changes polymer molecular structure to improve PV properties
The scientists have shown how the control of the molecular structure of a semiconductor polymer makes it possible to obtain a PV conversion efficiency of more than 10% for an organic solar cell.
Germany’s KfW finances South Africa’s grid enhancement with $100 million
The improvement to the country’s power infrastructure is planned to enable the integration of renewable energy IPP projects under the recently-signed PPAs, as part of the REIPPPP program.
Panasonic, Tesla reveal plan to produce lithium batteries in China
Tesla’s batteries may soon be Made in China. The announcement was made by Panasonic CEO Kazuhiro Tsuga during a conference accompanying the company’s 2018 fiscal-year results.
Tunisia to issue 300 MW tender for large-scale solar
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Youssef Chahed. The tender is set to be published on April 27.
German scientists use germanium to improve performance of kesterite solar cells
Although current efficiencies for solar cells based on kesterite do not exceed 12.6%, the use of germanium may enable the development of cells with a higher energy band gap.
India: Ground breaks on 200 MW PV cell manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh
CETC (India) has broken ground on an around US$49 million 200 MW solar PV cell manufacturing facility in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It will produce both standard polysilicon and PERC monocrystalline cells pv magazine has learned.
Work on 220 MW Myanmar PV project underway
Work on the first phase of a planned 220 MW solar PV plant is underway in Myanmar, according to Basic Energy Corporation. The Filipino-based energy company is looking to acquire an up to 20% stake in the two EPC companies involved.
