St. Andrews University discovery could push solar cell’s theoretical efficiency limit
Researchers at the University of St. Andrews have demonstrated that atomically precise groups of nanoparticles known as nanoclusters can cut a single high energy photon into two lower energy ones, a discovery which could lead to major advancements in the development of solar cells.
AES Corporation acquires 91 MW PV project in Brazil
The group’s local unit AES Tietê, which specializes in hydropower production, has bought a project selected by the Brazilian government in the second 2015 auction. The compnany is now seeking to transfer the project from Pernambuco to São Paulo.
Ukraine to lease area of Chernobyl nuclear plant for solar project
An area of around 2.5 million square meters will be leased for a PV project with a maximum capacity of 100 MW.
State Bank of India’s 600 MW plan for rooftop solar moves forward
The $625 million program, which is being financed by the World Bank, will provide private developers with financing for viable grid-connected rooftop PV projects.
Intevac’s revenue and profits pushed up by thin-film equipment sales
The California-based equipment supplier sold one Matrix solar ion implant system and two Energi solar implant systems during the second quarter of this year.
SolarWorld enters insolvency
Almost three months after announcing provisional insolvency proceedings, the German module maker has now entered the insolvency process. The company, however, is currently negotiating with a potential investor for the takeover of its two German production sites.
MIT researchers develop ‘any surface’ solar cell
A team of scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Energy Initiative has developed a flexible, transparent solar cell, using low-cost organic materials and graphene. The researchers say this cell could turn virtually any surface into a source of power generation.
Oil giant Shell invests in Singapore solar firm Sunseap
Although the amount of investment remains undisclosed, Shell’s involvement is likely to support substantial expansion of Sunseap’s solar production activities in Singapore and beyond.
Kazakhstan’s Akmola Region prepares to host 100 MW solar power plant
The $165 million PV plant will be constructed by local company KBEnterprises with the support of ABB.
Philippine oil firm embarks on another solar venture
PetroEnergy’s clean energy subsidiary receives environmental clearances for construction of 10 MW solar PV plant in the country. Project is the oil firm’s second solar foray.
