Magazine Archive 2017

Tariffs in PV: While tariff-free regions in Southeast Asia tackle head on the challenges that have arisen from legacy and proposed trade barriers, what becomes of Chinese and U.S. manufacturing capabilities and ambitions?

c-Si manufacturing: pv magazine partners with the team of solar analysts at IHS Markit to provide figures for the top 10 crystalline silicon module manufacturers, based on 2016 production figures, and examine the state of supply and demand for these top tier players.

European cleantech startups: While the cleantech and renewable energy industries enjoy an undeniably global presence in 2017, Europe remains an important center for innovation, and the first testing ground for many new technologies. pv magazine takes a look at the role of startups in the energy transition, and the current climate for young companies on the continent.

Solar and delisting: Trina Solar’s departure from the NYSE could signal a wave of solar firms leaving U.S. stock markets. But many uncertainties remain.

Lithium-ion batteries and fire safety: Lithium-ion batteries are taking the market by storm. But as demonstrated in incidents with tablets and other devices, they also carry the risk of uncontrolled thermal events. How much of a danger is this, and what can be done to mitigate these risks?

E-mobility in China: China’s track record in the PV industry is impressive: In a short period of time it has built up the world’s dominant production base for key solar PV components, including PV modules and inverters. Not only that, but many of these manufacturers are at the leading edge technologically, resulting in products that are not only very cost competitive, but also technologically advanced.

With the summer months upon us, at least in the northern hemisphere, the time for taking stock and catching one’s breath before the second half of the year descends is now. But it feels like somebody forgot to tell the solar industry. As the PV world continues to grow, both in size and complexity, there […]

Innovation and technology misunderstandings: Without innovation and dedication to pushing boundaries, the solar industry would wither and die. A lack of appreciation of the skill, time, and desire it takes to eke out greater efficiencies is not uncommon, and the route to successful commercialization is rarely straightforward.

PV demand in China: Another installation boom is drawing to a close in China, as the country implements a further cut to its feed-in tariffs. Analyst Corinne Lin looks at what to expect from the world’s largest PV market in the second half of the year.

Mexican market: Two recent energy auctions have been the catalyst that solar needed to take off in Mexico. Although part of the 3.6 GW that was contracted may not actually be built, a third auction which is currently underway could ensure that solar comes to represent 6% of the country’s energy mix in 2021.