China’s green initiative
Chinese manufacturers: With more ups and downs than a rollercoaster, the leading pack of Chinese solar module manufacturers has been shuffled again in recent months. pv magazine delivers a snapshot of who the top ten are, and how they are faring.
Doing its level best
Evolution of MLPE: In the third and final installment in the module level power electronics vs. string inverter series, pv magazine examines future trends that will shape the sector, exploring the potential new growth markets and hurdles, and the likely impact of the shift from lease to loan.
Inside Perrysburg
First Solar R&D: First Solar has led the development of CdTe thin film PV for decades, and lately has achieved efficiencies to rival multicrystalline silicon. pv magazine provides a rare glimpse inside the joint production and R&D site where much of the companys dramatic technological progress has been made.
Making the cut
Cell cutting: New module designs require cells to be halved, or cut into multiple strips. The cutting process is not entirely straightforward and can introduce defects. pv magazine investigates some new research into how mechanical defects can be potentially overcome.
Mexican energy reform creates hope for renewables
MIREC review: The opportunities created for renewables following the reform of Mexicos energy legislation were discussed in depth at Mirec Week 2016 in Mexico City.
New solar frontiers: Unconnected Africa
Off-grid Africa: As off-grid solar takes off in various markets worldwide, pv magazine spoke with the major players in the sectors hotbed, Africa, where it is growing faster than anywhere else, and where innovation is playing a key role in bringing electricity to households for as little as $0.50 a day.
Operating leases for commercial PV
Interview: pv magazine spoke with Stanley Fishbein, managing partner at CleanView Capital, about operating leases and why they are an attractive alternative form of financing for the C&I solar market.
Putting batteries to the test
Energy storage testing: Davion Hill of DNV GL explains the why, what, when, and how of energy storage testing, including the importance of safety and performance verification and the importance of gaining a better understanding of battery behavior in certain conditions.
Residential storage warms rapidly
Solar+storage: As the U.S. residential solar market matures, a growing number of homeowners are looking at various battery storage options as an addition to their arrays. pv magazine examines the state of the market, the challenges ahead and the leading players in this increasingly competitive space.
Solar in the Big Apple
NYC PV: New York City should be great for solar PV. But it isnt. Despite policy leadership from the state, local installers are facing crippling bureaucratic challenges, and many have chosen to build rooftop solar elsewhere.
