Solar

Information from the latest edition of GTM Research’s Global Solar Demand Monitor shows that solar’s globally installed capacity is rapidly catching up with that of nuclear, and that solar could in fact grow to more than double nuclear’s current capacity within the next five years.

The solar power arm of the Indian industrial conglomerate Tata has posted a 330% growth in profit after tax in 2016-17, citing EPC instead of manufacturing as the reason behind the increase

A team of researchers at the Netherlands’ AMOLF institute has modelled the performance of tandem perovskite/silicon solar cells under real-world climate conditions, and found that the tandem cells are little more efficient than the Si cell alone. The research shows, however, that if correctly optimized, this type of cell could perform at efficiency levels above 38%.

Industry analyst IHS Markit has raised its forecast for global installations in 2017 to 90 GW, representing 14% growth on the previous year’s figures. Continuing demand in China after the June 30th FIT cut is cited as the main driver for the increased expectation.

Researchers at the UK’s Exeter University have created solar cell-embedded glass bricks, which in addition to generating electricity let in natural light and provide thermal insulation.

The Spain based multi-national is building two projects in Mexico with a total capacity of 270 MW. Both projects are expected to be operational by the end of 2018.

The state government of Victoria has launched a tender for 650 MW of solar and wind capacity — which it claims is the biggest renewables auction in Australia — in support of fresh legislation that will set new renewables targets through 2025.

Although proposed in the report’s draft, the Australian Energy Market Commission’s final report on the Distribution Market Model does not mention imposition of charges for export of energy from distributed generators.

SMA has announced the completion of contracts for the operation and maintenance of two solar power plants in Chile. The plants are owned by Atlas Renewable Energies, and have a combined capacity of 180 MW. The plants include both SMA inverters and those of other manufacturers.

At an international PV conference held in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince, companies were demanding improvements to the political framework for the development of solar power in the country. Additionally, calls were made for low interest loans for private individuals, to cover initial investment in a PV system.