Becky Beetz
Chile: PV projects totaling 503 MW announced
First Solar Inc. is planning to build a 475 MW solar PV project in the Atacama region at a cost of US$952.3 million. Grenergy Renovables, meanwhile, has said it is planning to invest $54 million in installing 27 MW of PV in the country.
Canada: Silfab ramps module capacity up to 300 MW
On the back of strong North American demand, Silfab Solar is upping production capacity at its PV module manufacturing facility in Canada. Work is set to be complete in Q3.
Adler, viamon pilot project sees theft protection installed in 18 MW PV park
Adler Solar and viamon have completed a joint pilot project in the U.K., which saw theft protection devices installed in an 18 MW solar PV park. The companies claim to have built the worlds first GPS-based safety concept for PV installations.
Natcore aims for 2016 production of silver-less solar cells; companies express interest
Natcore Technologies Inc. has said pilot demonstration of its silver-less solar PV cells is expected in early 2016, with production available later in the year, if successful. To date, four companies have expressed interest in the new technology.
JinkoSolar raises FY module shipment guidance
JinkoSolar has raised its full year solar PV module shipping guidance to 4 to 4.5 GW, and expects to grid connect up to 800 MW of new projects. Overall, the Chinese solar company has recorded a relatively strong Q2.
US: SunEdison closes $253 million financing on 156 MW PV project
SunEdison Inc. has closed financing worth US$253 million, and begun construction, on a 156 MW (DC) solar PV project in Colorado, the U.S. It is expected to be completed early next year.
GE signs 30 MW battery storage deal with CESP
Coachella Energy Storage Partners (CESP) has contracted GE to supply it with a 30 MW Li-ion energy storage system, as part of its contract with the Imperial Irrigation District (IID). Commercial operation is scheduled for Q3 2016.
SunEdison forms $1 billion investment vehicle with Goldman Sachs
SunEdison has formed a US$1 billion warehouse investment vehicle with investment funds managed by Goldman Sachs. There is the possibility to expand this to $2 billion. If exercised, this would bring the renewable energy giants total warehouse platforms to $4 billion.
Phoenix Solar to build 6 PV plants in Turkey
Phoenix Solar AG will build six solar PV plants in Turkey totaling 6.9 MWp. Construction is to begin immediately, with the plants scheduled to be operational by year end.
Hareon Solar announces third Indian investment
Hareon Solar has unveiled new solar plans in India the third investment announcement since its foray into the budding solar market in July. Under the new partnership, the Chinese company will work with Nereus Capital and Treasury Group to invest in solar projects in the country.
