Mark Hutchins
UCI scientists develop new type of solar generation
A team of researchers from University of California, Irvine (UCI) has developed a device which which converts sunlight into electricity through the motion of ions, rather than through excitement of electrons as in standard photovoltaics.
CNREC advises reform and increased RE targets in China
A newly published report from the China National Renewable Center (CNREC) advises China’s National Energy Administration to increase its targets for total renewable energy capacity (excluding big hydro) to 500 GW by 2020.
Hanwha Q Cells holds steady in Q3, expects bigger Q4
The Korean manufacturing giant posted a slight drop in revenue and profits for the third quarter ending September 30th, but expects to achieve total module shipments in the range of 5.5 GW to 5.7 GW for the full year 2017.
REC Group sees strongest third quarter ever
Norway headquartered REC Group has become the latest solar manufacturer to post increased module shipments for the third quarter of 2017, as global demand continues to be buoyed by massive installations in China and a rush for U.S. projects to procure modules.
Shipments and revenues up in strong Q3 for Canadian Solar
Leading module manufacturer Canadian Solar posted revenue of $912 million for the third quarter of 2017, significantly above the figure of $692 million for the previous quarter. The company also saw quarterly shipments rise to 1.87 GW.
Developers propose 350 MW PV+storage project in UK
A joint venture between leading solar developers Wirsol and Hive Energy has launched a proposal for a solar park ‘in excess of 350 MW’ to be located on Britain’s North Kent Coast. While the proposal is in its initial stages, the developers state that the project will be built without any subsidies.
Octopus Investments expands refinancing with GBP 80 million
Already managing one of the largest solar investment funds in Europe, Octopus Investments has added an additional GBP 80 million, and acquired a further 100 MW solar project.
Energy Watch Group: 100% renewable electricity is both feasible and cost effective
A joint study by Finland’s Lappeenranta University of Technology and Energy Watch Group presented on the sidelines of the COP23 talks in Bonn demonstrates that a global transition to 100% renewable electricity could be achieved by 2050, and would be more cost effective than the current electricity system.
Scientists grind out solvent free perovskite thin-film process
Researchers from the Institute of Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS) and the renowned Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL) have collaborated on a new technique for the creation of perovskite solar cell materials. The technique replaces traditional solvent based processes with steel ball mill grinding.
JinkoSolar sets new mono-PERC cell efficiency record
JinkoSolar has achieved yet another efficiency world record, hitting 23.45% with its p-type monocrystalline PERC cell technology. The record has been confirmed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
