NREL develops controllable quantum dot systems
Researchers at the United States National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have developed a new designer quantum dot system, which allows for greater control over optoelectronic properties of the materials.
Egypt: German consortium plans 1 GW vertically integrated solar factory
A first agreement to start a feasibility study for the project, which also includes the construction of a giant solar plant, was signed in the presence of the country’s minister of energy Mohamed Shaker.
Indian government issues draft quality order on solar modules
The Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has forwarded to the World Trade Organization a draft quality order on solar modules announced by Energy Minister Piyush Goyal a week earlier.
Swedish Parliament approves cancellation of solar tax
The tax was applied to PV installations for self-consumption with a capacity of over 255 kW. The move is expected to revive Sweden’s solar market after the disappointing performance (due to the tax) registered last year.
Environmentalist and solar advocate Nicolas Hulot is France’s new energy minister
Hulot is a well-known journalist and environmentalist which has had a leading role in the French Green Party (Europe Écologie-Les Verts) in the past, and has always supported solar through his foundation.
Solar had no chance against wind in Spain’s renewable energy auction
Spanish solar association UNEF claims PV was discriminated against in the auction and announced it will appeal to the European Commission.
Indian hydropower provider SJVN seeks partners to deploy 500 MW of solar
The state-owned Indian hydro-power producer has issued an EoI to select potential partners for the construction of large-scale PV plants across India. SJVN will have an equity share of over 26% in the proposed joint venture.
Construction begins on Sun Metals refinery solar farm
Queensland’s largest industrial solar project at the Sun Metals zinc refinery has broken ground. The new 125 MW renewable energy power station is to be delivered in early 2018.
Solar Trade Association launches ‘Manifesto’ for UK solar
The UK trade body today launched its ‘Great British Solar Manifesto’, in a pre-election appeal to MPs outlining the contribution solar can make to the country over the next Parliament, if the right policy framework is put in place to fairly support market developments.
Oman to launch support scheme for small-sized PV
The Middle Eastern country is planning to support the installation of rooftop PV systems ranging in size from 2 kW to 4 kW. The support scheme will not be based on FITs or net metering, but on an “accelerated subsidy adjustment” mechanism.
