Solar causes highest power peaks under mixed-cloud conditions
Dutch researchers have shown that power peaks caused by solar generation may be stronger under partial cloudiness than clear skies. According to their findings, mixed-cloud conditions can enhance PV power production due to light reflected off clouds, as well as their intermittent shadows on arrays, which reduce module temperatures.
ArcelorMittal seeks solar PPAs for 150 MW in South Africa
The steel manufacturer aims to sign power purchase agreements for six operational sites in Vanderbijlpark, Newcastle, Vereeniging, Pretoria, Thabazimbi and Saldanha.
PV imports to face 20-25% customs duty in India
The Indian government’s levy on modules could almost double to 40% within a year. Cells will see a similar rise, from an initial rate of 15%.
Works begin on Croatia’s largest PV plant
The 6.5 MW solar project will be built with PV modules supplied by Croatian manufacturer Solvis d.o.o.
Manufacturing industry seeks unity on wafer size
Seven solar manufacturers, including tier-1 players, have signed up to a joint initiative aiming to establish a new standard size for silicon wafers at 182mm x 182mm. Conspicuously absent from the initiative is China’s Zhonghuan Semiconductor, which last year introduced a 210mm solar wafer, the largest seen in the industry so far.
LevelTen Energy opens procurement of up to 500 MW of European renewables capacity
U.S.-based tender platform has invited proposals for projects ranging in scale from 50-500 MW on behalf of an unnamed client which is a member of the RE100 clean energy campaign. European developers have until July 20 to lodge their bids.
Kenya’s largest dairy producer wants to buy solar
New Kenya Cooperative Creameries has finalized the preliminary phase of a tender to buy electricity from a solar facility that will be built at its new KCC Sotik Factory. The installation is expected to cover around 40% of the site’s power needs.
First Solar signs PPA with Dow Inc
Dow Inc. is set to buy 75% of the annual generation from First Solar’s upcoming 200 MW Horizon Solar project in Frio County, Texas, under a 15-year power contract.
Fifteen-year PPA for 150 MW solar project in US
Plans to build the 150 MW Cabin Creek solar farm are now set to move forward, now that developer Clenera has secured a 15-year power purchase agreement with Basin Electric Power Cooperative.
Austria doubles financial support for solar rebates
The government has ramped up its budget for the rebate scheme to €10 million.
