Mark Hutchins
Iberdrola begins construction on first large-scale projects in Mexico
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.
1366 Technologies, Hanwha Q Cells hit 20.3% cell efficiency with Direct Wafer process
U.S. based PV innovator 1366 Technologies, and Korean PV manufacturer Hanwha Q CELLS have announced a new performance record for cells produced using 1366’s Direct Wafer technique. The cells achieved 20.3% efficiency, which has been independently confirmed by Fraunhofer ISE.
SMA expands O&M business in South America
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.
AECEA: China installations to surpass 40 GW in 2017
Based on new data from China’s National Energy Administration (NEA), Asia Europe Clean Energy Associates (AECEA) has raised its forecast for PV installations in China for 2017. AECEA now expects to see 40-45 GW installed in China before the year end.
JA Solar ships 2.14 GW of modules in Q2
Chinese crystalline module manufacture JA Solar shipped 2.147 GW of modules, and a further 167.2 MW of cells to external customers, as well as 74.5 MW to its own downstream projects. This makes JA Solar only the second company to exceed 2 GW in shipments for a single quarter.
Midsummer picks up new thin-film equipment orders
The Swedish PV equipment supplier has received an order for two of its DUO thin-film cell manufacturing lines. Midsummer has not named the company which placed the order, but states that it is a repeat order from an existing customer.
UK researchers launch PV generation forecasting tool
A team of researchers at the University of Sheffield has developed a service to forecast energy generation levels from PV up to three days in advance, allowing grid operators to make decisions further in advance, lowering costs and increasing the efficiency of electricity systems.
Egypt: First project contracts signed under EBRD framework
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) today announced the completion of financing for two 50 MW PV projects, to be built as part of the 1.8 GW Benban Solar complex in Egypt’s Aswan province.
Researchers create solar cell and inverter in single device
Researchers from Spain based organization nanoGUNE have developed a solar cell which, through the use of magnetic electrodes, is able to serve as its own inverter.
Ireland: 10 MW PV project rejected by council
A solar plant planned by developer Gaelectric on a site north of Dublin has failed to receive approval from the local council, according to reports from the Irish Independent.
