The weekend read: Central Asia’s green horizons
Despite its huge potential in the region, solar PV has hitherto gained little traction in Central Asia. In Kazakhstan, two utility-scale PV projects have been realized, and a few are in the pipeline for Uzbekistan as it begins to attract international investors. But many challenges on the policy level have yet to be overcome.
Solar, wind make up at least 94% of new US generation power in Q1 2018
Wind and solar dominated new electric capacity commissioned in the first three months of 2018 – even before you count behind-the-meter installations.
California blows through solar power, renewable energy output records
California has set a new record for peak output of utility-scale solar at more than 10.5 GW, as well as for renewable energy overall. However, the state’s grid operator is still curtailing solar and wind while hydro and the last nuclear plant run full-steam.
Data is driving change – adapt or fall off the grid
As global economies develop, and uses for renewable energy diversifies, new pressures are being placed on the electric network. Yet, utilities are sitting on a wealth of data that can reveal better insights into their operations, writes Dan Beasley, Director, Utilities, Cyient.
Kosovo embarks on renewables path
Although the Balkan country has recently approved the construction of a new coal power plant, Prime Minister, Ramush Haradinaj has said he intends to open the energy market to solar and wind power, an action that was recommended by the EU a year earlier.
ReneSola to develop unsubsidized PV projects in France
China’s Renesola and Germany-based Green City Energy have formed a joint holding company, which will develop a combination of solar projects with and without government subsidies. The current French pipeline includes four PV projects totaling 69 MW.
South Africa: Date set for PPA signing, economic benefits highlighted
The South African Government has set a date of March 13 for the signing of 27 outstanding PPAs for solar and wind. It emphasized the economic benefits of the contracts, which are set to spur new energy investment of around US$4.7 billion and over 60,000 jobs.
Over $50 million funding approved for solar projects in Zambia
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved over US$50 million in funding for the development of up to 100 MW of renewable energy projects, primarily solar, in Zambia.
Poland to tender 750 MW of solar projects up to 1 MW in 2018
The Polish government may also launch a mixed wind-solar auction for projects over 1 MW that, according to local analyst Piotr Pająk, would eventually conclude with a prevailing share of wind.
Interview: Solar DG will keep growing in Spain, but clear rules are needed
In an interview with pv magazine, the general manager of Madrid-based solar association UNEF, José Donoso discusses the recent trajectory of solar distributed generation in Spain, while pointing out the necessary actions needed to enable further growth.
