Being bombarded
Ion implantation: The technology has been around for some time now, but it is only of late that it is making ripples in the upstream production pond. Touted as a potential way to increase efficiencies and create cost savings, companies are starting to take a serious look at ion implantation.
Changing energy habits
Smart grids in the UK: Electricity distributors, with the support of government funding, are piloting various energy storage applications as the UK sets out to reduce carbon emissions significantly in the coming years.
Cross-border solar
US-Mexico: Prospects of exporting solar energy from Mexico to the United States have encouraged large power plant installations along the border area. While relative advantages exist in Mexico for lower cost installations, regulatory incongruities may hobble efforts to move the clean energy northward. Smart grid and transmission line developments currently underway should foster more activity in this unique region.
Get involved!
Dear readers, These words certainly soothed the soul of the solar community: You are the future of America. The words were spoken by Bill Clinton at the Solar Power International (SPI) tradeshow in Florida. Thousands of SPI attendees lined up patiently to hear the former U.S. President speak at the rather fancy Convention Center in […]
Global FIT overview
Feed-in tariffs: The Swiss tariffs recently degressed as planned. Greece significantly reduced its FITs in light of its economic situation. The state of Victoria, Australia has slashed its tariffs to be in line with wholesale electricity prices. And Poland is tabling a new FIT, which looks set to come into effect in early 2013.
Increased activity
Module prices: Price reductions in response to FIT cuts in important markets resulted in increased market activity and stronger global demand.
Indian PV will be big
CEO Interview: 20-year old EMMVEE Solar Systems has pursued the goal of making solar energy available to as many people as possible at affordable prices. Now the company employs more than 650 employees worldwide. pv magazine had a chat with founder and Managing Director D.V. Manjunatha.
Learning by doing
Morocco: In 2009, Moroccan Minister for Energy, Mining, Water and Environment Amina Benkhadra declared the nations ambitious plan to establish 2 GW of solar power by 2020. Five sites were identified for this project. pv magazine takes a look at the progress thus far, the hurdles and the potential ahead for the Moroccan solar market.
Let the light in
3D solar cell technologies: Cells that minimize reflectance and effectively trap more sunlight can lead to solar panels that pack in more power output, reducing costs significantly.
Multiple challenges
India: Cumulative solar capacity now stands at around 1,040 MW, of which 830 MW were installed this year. Despite the crossing of the 1 GW milestone, there are still many challenges facing the Indian solar industry, including missed project deadlines and high inflation. Mercom Capital Groups Raj Prabhu provides an update on the market and its various state incentive programs.
