Markets

2013 is set to see increased photovoltaics support in Poland. While many expect the new law – and generous subsidies – to boost the country’s solar industry, there are already fears the government’s conservative capacity estimates could cause the kind of boom and bust cycle seen in markets like Spain and the Czech Republic. The questions on everyone’s lips are: will the law come into force as planned; and is the government adequately prepared for the anticipated uptake?

By 2017, Sunways AG said it intends, along with its majority shareholder, LDK Solar, to become 1 of the top 3 photovoltaic inverter manufacturers globally. It added that it will return to profitability in 2014, and will enter the Canadian, U.S. and Chinese markets in the coming years.

Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd’s preliminary results for Q2 2012 include a gross margin significantly below its original guidance, and increased operating expenses. Although shipments and revenues were said to have increased, it has decreased its FY shipping guidance. Meanwhile, in response to allegations over GSE’s business in Italy, the company has denied any wrongdoing.

During a visit to Beijing, the German Chancellor sought to find a political solution to the anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) dispute involving China’s photovoltaic manufacturers.

According to media reports, criminal charges have been filed in Italy against the Global Solar Fund, S.C.A., Sicar (GSF). It is claimed the company “illegally” built solar farms in the country in order to take advantage of available subsidies. The trial is scheduled to begin on December 6.

On the back of paltry Q2 2012 financial results, China Sunergy expects its business to be adversely affected in 2H. The usual suspects – oversupply, weak market demand and low ASPs – were identified as the main culprits. Downstream projects are still a focus for the company.

Production at the insolvent Germany-based photovoltaic company, Sovello is at a standstill. Despite this, talks are said to be ongoing with “major strategic partners”.

Yesterday’s meeting at the German chancellery offered little in the way of tangible results. It was only agreed that the development of renewables should be curbed, the EEG reformed and the industry relieved. Representatives of the photovoltaic and wind associations were not, however, invited to participate.

According to reports, 47 representatives at the insolvent Q.Cells SE are currently deciding whether South Korea’s Hanwha, or Spain-based Isofotón will get to take the German company over. When the decision will be reached is not yet known.

Poland’s state-run National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFEPWM) has announced it will add a further PLN 150 million (€36.5 million) to its grant program aimed at Polish households that purchase photovoltaic modules.