Total invests in semiconductor, PV research
The parent company of SunPower and the French National Research Agency have launched a new initiative aimed at developing new plasma processing methods for semiconductors and solar PV.
Slovak homeowners want more solar and storage
In the first 2018 round for solar rebates, funds were allocated in just nine minutes. More than two thirds of the selected projects included a storage solution.
Trina Solar invited to set up PV manufacturing facilities in Pakistan
Trina Solar has confirmed it has been invited by the Pakistani Government to set up solar PV manufacturing facilities in Pakistan. The Government has reportedly said it will provide financial incentives.
2018 pivotal year for Greek energy, new PV auctions planned
2018 is going to be a pivotal year for Greece’s energy sector, including in renewables. An auction for new solar PV plants is expected to attract global attention; however other changes currently underway are also expected to be effective for the long term development of the Greek PV industry.
Czech Republic launches new round of its Green Savings Programme
The scheme provides investment support for residential and commercial solar PV systems. The round’s deadline is April 30, 2018.
China’s cumulative PV capacity hits 130 GW, to reach 250 GW by 2020
According to China’s National Energy Administration (NEA), the country installed a total of 52.83 GW of solar PV in 2017, with cumulative capacity now sitting at 130.25 GW. Asia Europe Clean Energy (Solar) Advisory Co. Ltd (AECEA) forecasts this to reach 250 GW by 2020.
Germany’s IBC, SolarWorld announce separate solar developments in Turkey
While the German EPC contractor has installed a 4.2 MW rooftop solar PV plant, the manufacturer has agreed to supply 60 MW of modules to the Turkish market.
Belgium to host its first “giant” solar park
The 100 MW Kristal Solar Park will be the first ground mounted solar park built in the country since 2013. Belgium has so for implemented policies that have supported residential rooftop PV, and that only recently have helped increase the share of the commercial and industrial segments.
South Sudan could reap immediate benefits from solar– report
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has proposed a “green pivot” for South Sudan, where solar energy could help decouple economic growth from the geopolitics of oil and gas. In a special report, it has identified three opportunities where solar could yield benefits. A donor-led transition is required.
PV covered 1.6% of Portugal’s power production in 2017
Overall, renewables accounted for more than 40% of the country’s electricity generation last year. Meanwhile, registered installed PV capacity has reached 478 MW.
