Racking & receptors buoy tenKsolar
System efficiency: Relative newcomer tenKsolar, of Minneapolis, is offering a unique wave-shaped photovoltaic array of flat plate modules paired with reflectors that the company claims will generate the highest density energy output of any solar array on a commercial flat roof.
Rise and shine
Jordan: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has few natural resources and imports nearly all of its energy. Now it is turning to renewables such as solar PV to provide energy security and drive economic prosperity.
Solar spring
Japan: One year after Fukushima the Japanese photovoltaics market is ready for a new launch. At the beginning of March this could be seen at PV Expo 2012, Japans largest solar trade exhibition. This year it is expected that new systems with an output of 2.5 gigawatts will be installed, more than twice as much as in the previous year.
Unique challenges on the subcontinent
Project development India: Solar development in India is a bit of a paradox. On one hand, it is like the Wild West of American folklore, where anything goes. On the other, the solar market in India is one of the most rigidly planned markets in the world, and developers must be on top of their game to turn a profit. Astonfield Renewable Resources Sourabh Sen looks inside the intriguing and extremely promising market.
Its a real blood bath
Industry ranking: The growth curves of crystalline solar cell manufacturers have taken a downward turn. Right now, theres not a lot of money being made. Manufacturers are just trying to stay in the market longer than the competition.
Made in China
China: Massive production overcapacities continue to buffet the Chinese PV industry. At Solarcon China 2012 in Shanghai on March 22nd, Ewout Vandamme, Business Development Manager for sawing wire supplier NV Bekaert SA, mentioned a staggering 37 percent production utilization among Chinese wafer manufacturers in the last quarter of 2011.
A new opportunity awaits
Solarex Istanbul 2012: The fifth edition of Solarex Istanbul, International Solar and Photovoltaic Technologies exhibition 2012, closed its doors on April, 14 after hosting another round of PV players from the region and beyond.
Advancing Li-ion
Lithium-ion batteries: Whether for off-grid applications or for self-consumption micro-grid systems, lithium battery storage technologies have steadily expanded their application scope and efficiency. REAPsystems together with the University of Southampton conducted research on a new version that can potentially increase efficiency and reduce cost.
Big plans
Greece: There is a lot of activity at present in the Greek PV market, as became clear at the Ecotec trade fair in Athens. 2012 is set to become the most successful year in the history of Greek photovoltaics. Energy Minister Giorgos Papakonstantinou has great things in mind with the Helios Project.
