Georgia Power forced to adopt 525 MW more solar
The state’s Public Service Commission has accepted a motion to force utility Georgia Power to include an additional 525 MW of solar generation in its forward planning strategy. The agency has sought to ensure PPA payments will not drive up electricity rates.
EU targets German Renewable Energy Act
The European Commission appears to be sharpening its focus on Germany’s Renewable Energy Act due to possible violations of European Union competition regulations. Energy-intensive German companies that have profited from incentives could be forced to pay back millions in back payments, according to German weekly Der Spiegel.
Solar thermal scheme is no threat to PV in the UK
The U.K.’s renewable heat incentive will rebalance a regime previously skewed towards PV, says the country’s trade body, adding that leveling the playing field will enable people to make the right choice and incentivize mixed systems.
Spain abolishes FITs entirely
The country’s new scheme will guarantee only a ‘reasonable profitability’ for renewable energy plants and that figure will be based on what the government says developers should have paid rather than their actual level of investment.
Greece: PV installation rates plunge in second quarter as RES fund debt rises
PV installations in Greece dropped significantly between April and June compared to the first quarter of 2013, when the country saw a considerable uptake in new solar PV capacity. At the same time, the country’s RES fund continues to amass debt at an alarming rate.
SunShot solar projects among innovations of the year
Two U.S. Department of Energy-funded projects listed among 2013’s innovations of the year. Glare analysis tool and high efficiency, lower cost cell make R&D Magazine list.
Renesola aims for Japanese expansion
CEO of Chinese manufacturer says Japan will become company’s third biggest market after U.S. and Europe as he announces deal to supply up to 32 MW of modules to Japanese client.
Trina Solar supplies 7 MW of modules to UK project
Load and wind bearing capacity of Trina modules prompts Belgian installer Ikaros Solar to use the Chinese modules for the first time. Goose Willow Farm scheme will use 24,000 Trina panels.
SoloPower's search for investors moves forward
Thin film solar manufacturer SoloPower has announced that an agreement has been reached with its major secured creditors on a restructuring plan. The company will also move its head office to Portland, Oregon.
UK government to prepare standards for large-scale solar
Commitments to sustainability being drawn up by solar industry may not be enough to address fears over visual impact and loss of agricultural land. STA trade body says problems are caused by incentives which fail to encourage rooftop and mid-size schemes.
