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Date: 2013-04-26
SunEdison, a global solar energy services provider and a subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. , reports that its affiliate, MEMC Singapore, entered into a PV module manufacturing services agreement with Fox Energy, the PV solar business subsidiary of Foxconn Technology. Under the terms of the agreement, Fox Energy will manufacture up to 350 MW of solar modules for SunEdison. The modules will be produced in a manufacturing facility in Juarez, Mexico. The agreement is part of SunEdison's virtual vertically integrated business strategy leveraging the manufacturing expertise of partners like Fox Energy and enabling SunEdison to bring high quality solar modules to market while continuing to reduce levelized cost of energy (LCOE).
As of December 31, 2012, SunEdison had interconnected over 989 MW of solar energy and had a pipeline of 2.6 GW. This relationship with Fox Energy will assist SunEdison in its global expansion.
(Source: SunEdison, PR, 23 April 23, 2013) Contact: SunEdison, www.sunedison.com; Foxconn, [email protected], www.foxconn.com
Tags Solar news,
Date: 2013-04-26
Organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology developer Solar Press is investigating flexible plastic based OPV modules as a power source for remote, autonomous sensors within buildings as an energy harvesting application. OPV power harvesting offer the potential for low cost fit-and-forget deployment of sensors for CO2, humidity and temperature monitoring as part of a smart wireless sensor network.
This project will focus on the development of self-powered wireless CO2 sensors to monitor indoor air quality, optimize ventilation and to reduce building energy consumption.
Solar Press is partnering with UK-based Gas Sensing Solutions Ltd and Seamless Sensing for the project, which is supported by a grant from the Technology Strategy Board (TSB). The consortium includes end user assessment by Schneider Electric Industries, Sontay and Ecotechnics.
(Source: Solar Press, Altenergymag, 24 April, 2013) Contact: Solar Press, Dr Chris Harris, CEO, www.solar-press.com; Gas Sensing Solutions Ltd, +44 1236 781900, www.gassensing.co.uk
Tags Energy Harvesting news, Energy Storage news,
Date: 2013-04-17
Conergy Projects Group has completed construction of a 725 kW photovoltaic system for T&P Farms in Arbuckle, California. The system is supplying T&P with 95 percent of its energy needs.
The 725 kW PV system is divided into two installations specially designed by Conergy for agricultural applications. The two installations feature 3,024 Conergy PM 240P Watt solar modules secured with 3.9 miles of Conergy Mounting System rail. The installations, producing 1,1 million kWh annually, will prevent the release of more than 892 tpy of CO2, reduce energy consumption, and save millions in electricity costs for T&P.
(Source: Conergy, 16 April, 2013) Contact: Conergy, (888) 489-3701, [email protected], www.conergy.us.
Tags Solar news,
Date: 2013-04-17
Solar PV module and wafer manufacturer ReneSola Ltd. will provide 7,200 of its 250-watt high-efficiency polycrystalline solar PV modules for a solar project to be built by Chicago-based S&C Electric Company in Roswell, New Mexico this year.
ReneSola began delivering solar modules to the Roswell, New Mexico project site on April 8, 2013. S&C is responsible for the solar project's engineering, procurement and construction. (Source: ReneSolar, 15 April, 2013) Contact: ReneSolar, Xianshou Li, CEO, www.ReneSola.com; S&C, www.sandc.com
Tags Solar news, PV news,
Date: 2013-04-03
Tempe, Arizona-based First Solar Inc. has acquired a 150-MW solar project planned for Southern California's Imperial Valley from a group led by Goldman Sachs Group Inc. The project is expected to begin later this year and be completed in 2014. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The planned Solar Gen 2 projectis expected to produce sufficient electricity for more than 60,000 average homes.
The acquisition includes 40 MW of solar modules that the project purchased from another solar-module supplier.
San Diego Gas & Electric Co. has signed a 25-year PPA for the prjects power. (Source: First Solar, PR, April 1, 2013) Contact: First Solar, (602) 414-9300, www.firstsolar.com
Tags Solar news,
Date: 2013-03-11
The Sacramento International Jet Center, the Sacramento County's airport system partner for general aviation at the Sacramento International Airport, has installed a 130 kilowatt solar electric system on their hangar and office facilities. The system was installed by CitiGreen, Inc. & Foothill Electric, turn-key solar contractors for commercial customers. The installation is comprised of 562 Conergy PM 235 watt solar modules affixed to the Jet Center rooftop using more than 5,600 feet of Conergy SunTop mounting systems. The entire system is connected to the grid using two Solectria 60 kilowatt inverters. This system will essentially eliminate their $31,000 annual electric bill. Other benefits include federal tax incentives that allow them to write off 70 percent of their system installation costs and they will receive a SMUD rebate for 20 percent more cost reduction.
Over its expected 30 year life span, of this system will produce approximately 6,402,000 kilowatt hours which will offset 4,650 tons of carbon dioxide. This equates to turning off 59,000 incandescent light bulbs and planting 138,000 trees.
(Source: Conergy, 11 Mar., 2013) Contact: Conergy, www.conergy-group.com; SacJet, (916) 428-8292,
www.sacjet.com;
CitiGreen Solar, Inc., (530) 292-8011, www.citigreensolar.com
Tags Conergy news, Rooftop Solar news,
Date: 2013-03-06
The Volkswagen Group reports that it will reduce the CO2 emissions of its European new car fleet to 95 grams per kilometer by 2020. The German automaker previously set a target of reducing the CO2 emissions of its European new vehicle fleet to less than 120 grams per kilometer by 2015. The automaker says it is on track to meet this goal, and that increasingly efficient technologies, powertrains and vehicles, and environmentally sustainable production, would account for more than two-thirds of VW's total investment of €50.2 billion ($65.4 billion) planned up to 2015.
The company says it is also making progress toward its target of making all 100 VW production facilities throughout the world 25 percent more environmentally sustainable by 2018. It says is has cut energy and water consumption, waste production, and CO2 and solvent emissions, on average, 10 percent per vehicle over the past two years.
In January, Volkswagen opened a solar park on 33 acres adjacent to its LEED Platinum manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, Tenn. The 9.5 MW solar park contains 33,600 solar modules from JA Solar, designed to produce 13.1 GWh of electricity per year. (Source: VW, Env. Leader, 6 Mar., 2013)
Tags VW news, CO2 Emissions news,
Date: 2013-03-04
First Solar, Inc. says it has set a new world record for cadmium-telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic (PV) solar cell conversion efficiency; 18.7 percent cell efficiency in tests confirmed by NREL. The record-setting cell was built at the Company's Perrysburg, Ohio factory and R&D center using processes and materials designed for commercial-scale manufacturing.
Since it began commercial production in 2002, First Solar has produced more than 90 million of its advanced thin-film solar modules with a capacity of over 7 gigawatts (GW), enough to provide clean electricity for approximately 3.5 million homes and displace 4.7 million metric tpy of CO2, based on world averages. The company utilizes a continuous manufacturing process which transforms a sheet of glass into a complete solar module in less than 2.5 hours, contributing to the industry-leading energy payback time and low carbon footprint of systems using First Solar PV modules.
For more information visithttp://www.firstsolar.com/Innovation/Advanced-Thin-Film-Modules
www.firstsolar.com. (Source: First Solar, altenergymag.com, 28 Feb., 2013) Contact: First Solar, Jim Brown, President , (602) 414-9300, www.firstsolar.com
Tags First Solar news, cadmium-telluride news, Solar Cell Efficiency news, Solar news,
Date: 2013-02-27
DuPont Microcircuit Materials (MCM) and Sunrise Global Solar Energy Corporation have produced solar cells with conversion efficiencies of 20.3 percent using newly commercialized DuPont™ Solamet® PV36X series aluminum photovoltaic metallization pastes for rear-side passivation of silicon solar cells.
Taiwanese solar cell producer Sunrise Global Solar Energy reported that results with its latest CELCO high-efficiency solar cell design were independently verified by certified global standards group, Fraunhofer ISE in Germany. High performance solar panels with electrical output power greater than 280 Watts were produced and certified by independent certification group, TUV Rheinland.
DuPont™ Solamet® PV36X series pastes can achieve greater cell efficiency gains compared with traditional aluminum pastes due to better electrical contacts and stronger adhesion. The new materials also exhibit strong resistance to a phenomenon known as potential induced degradation (PID) which has been observed in competing solar cell designs, where performance can slightly decrease. DuPont has also reduced total paste usage on each cell and continues to focus on further improving the reliability and durability of solar modules.
(Source: Dupont, PR, 25 Feb., 2013) Contact: DuPont, Ellen Pressley, (919) 248-5598, [email protected], http://mcm.dupont.com or http://photovoltaics.dupont.com; Sunrise Global Solar Energy, William Chen, [email protected], www.sunriseglobalsolar.com
Tags DuPont news, Photovoltaics news,
Date: 2013-02-06
Trina Solar Limited today announced the 60-cell PDG5, the first in Trina Solar's new line of dual rated frameless modules.
The PDG5 is resistant to potential induced degradation (PID) and micro-cracking, and does not require grounding.
The PDG5 features front and back layers of special heat-strengthened glass, and is among the first such crystalline silicon (c-Si) modules. By replacing the traditional backsheet materials of conventional solar modules with heat-strengthened glass, the PDG5 provides a heavy-duty solution for environments of high temperature and humidity, conditions that can accelerate performance degradation. The resulting module has increased resistance to micro-cracking, potential induced degradation (PID), module warping, and degradation from UV rays, sand, alkali, acids and salt mist.
(Source: Trina Solar, 4 Feb., 2013) Contact: Trina Solar, Jifan Gao, CEO, (800) 696-7114, www.trinasolar.com
Tags Trina Solar news, Carbon Footprint news,
Tags Trina Solar news, Solar Module news, Solar news,
Date: 2013-01-25
In Chattanooga, Volkswagen has "powered up" the largest single solar installation at an automotive manufacturing facility in the U.S. and the biggest solar installation in the state of Tennessee. VW's Chattanooga Solar Park occupies 33 acres and contains 33,600 solar modules from JA Solar designed to produce 13.1 gigawatt hours of electricity per year -- equivalent to the energy consumed annually by around 1,200 homes. The electricity produced from the solar park is expected to meet 12.5 percent of the plant's energy needs during full production and 100 percent during non-production periods. The plant covers 1.9 million square feet and employs more than 3,000 people. The Chattanooga installation is the automaker's largest photovoltaic installation worldwide.
Nashville-headquartered Silicon Ranch Corp, a developer and operator of solar energy solutions tailored to meet its customers' needs, will own the solar park and sell the electricity to VW under the terms of a 20-year PPA. (Source: VW, 24 Jan., 2013) Contact: VW, www.vw.com ; Silicon Ranch, (615) 321-2022,
www.siliconranchcorp.com
Tags VW news, Silicon Ranch news, Solar news, Solar PPA news,
Date: 2013-01-21
In India, Tata Power subsidiary Tata Power Solar Systems is citing stiff Chinese competition as the reason for its plan to shift from an export-oriented operation to a domestic engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) service provider.
To date, Tata
has concentrated on exporting solar modules and cells, primarily to the US, Australia, Europe and Asian markets, which have accounted for nearly 80 percent of the company's sales.
The company also provides solar power solutions and EPC services. Tata Solar has a manufacturing capacity of 125 mw of modules and 84 mw of solar cells, most of which the company says is "under-utilized due to fierce competition from Chinese players." (Source: Tata Solar, Times of India, Jan. 20, 2013) Contact: Tata Power Solar Systems, Ajay Goel, CEO, www.tatapowersolar.com; Tata Power, +91 (2) 26 665-8733, www.tpc.co.in
Tags Tata Power news, Solar news,
Date: 2013-01-02
PV manufacturer Yingli Green Energy, which markets its products under the Yingli Solar brand,reports that its multicrystalline PV modules passed the Potential Induced Degradation (PID) test conducted by TUV SUD. The PID test was conducted under stringent conditions of 85 degrees Celsius, 85 percent relative humidity, and 1,000 volts of system voltage bias with a testing duration of 96 hours. The test results showed that the power degradation of Yingli Solar modules was lower than 0.5 percent, significantly below the maximum allowable power output degradation rate of 5 percent. (Source: Yingli Green Energy, PR, Dec. 30, 2012) Contact: Yingli Green Energy, Helena Kimball, Marketing, (603) 591-5812, [email protected], www.yingliamericas.com; TUV SUD, Lily Qian, +86 21 6141 8673, [email protected], www.tuv-sud.cn
Tags Solar news, Solar Cell news, Yingli Solar news, TUV SUD news,
Date: 2012-12-19
According to a report from Boston-based Lux Research, as the solar manufacturing industry continues to struggle with overcapacity and oversupply, pressures for lower prices will likely push the cost of solar down to 48 cents per watt by 2017.
The prices for solar modules have fallen steadily over the last four years to just 70 cents per watt, according to the study. The problem is that the cost of goods sold for panel production has not fallen as quickly, which has resulted in many solar panel manufacturers selling their products at a loss, said Lux Research assistant Ed Cahill, who authored the report Module Cost Structure Update: The Path to Profitability.
There are two primary ways manufacturers will be able to reduce their costs per watt and only one that most companies will be able to execute. The first option is for companies to close up manufacturing facilities in regions of the world that are more expensive and move to cheaper labor markets like China. Most won't be able to afford to do that," Cahill said.
Since solar companies are already operating on tight margins, capital expenditures for new facilities and major corporate moves and restructuring are out of the question for most. Cahill said that most companies will focus improving solar module efficiency to reduce costs. "CIGS aren't the cheapest," Cahill said. "But they have the greatest potential to cut costs." The cost of goods sold for CIGS could drop more than 14 cents per watt between 2012 and 2017, landing it at 64 cents per watt.
Cadmium telluride, typically used in thin-film modules, could drop to as low as 48 cents per watt. It's already the low-cost leader at 67 center per watt.
But Cahill said that doesn’t mean the technology will push out others. "It depends on applications; he thin-film will likely be good for utility-scale installations," Cahill said.
But because it takes up more space to produce the same amount of energy as crystalline solar, crystalline is expected to continue to dominate the rooftop solar industry. "Making modules more efficient will be the key driver in reducing costs," Cahill said. (Source: LUX Research, Clean Energy Authority, 16 Dec., 2012)
Contact: Lux Research, Inc., Carole Jacques, (617) 502-5314, [email protected], www.luxresearch.com
Tags Lux Research news, Solar news, Solar Modules news,
Date: 2012-12-12
Solar modules and renewable energy specialist Kyocera Solar Inc. reports that its PV solar panels are powering the new 90-kilowatt, EV charging canopy at the San Diego Zoo. Theproject, in partnership with Smart City San Diego, is run by San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). All of the Kyocera solar panels used in this project were manufactured at the company's San Diego facility.
Ten solar canopies, designed and installed by Vista-based Independent Energy Solutions (IES), produce 90 kW of peak generating capacity -- enough to power 59 homes -- as well as five EV charging stations. Using new lithium-polymer battery technology, its 100-kW energy storage system is charged by the solar canopies to offset demand on the electrical grid and recharge EVs after sunset. (Source: Kyocera Solar, Dec. 11, 2012) Contact: KYOSERA Solar, Tetsuo Kuba, President, http://global.kyocera.com
Tags KYOCERA Solar news, Electric Vehicle Charge news,
Date: 2012-12-07
ET Solar Group Corp's PV modules have won carbon footprint verification TUV SUD Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. The verification is conducted through an assessment of the greenhouse gas emission values over the life cycle of the goods and services. ET Solar modules were proven to be in full compliance with PAS2050. The production cycles under assessment mainly included raw material processing, finished product manufacturing, transportation, and waste treatment phases. (Source: ET Solar, Dec. 3, 2012) Contact: ET Solar, (925) 460-9898 -N.A HQ, www.etsolar.com; TUV SUD, Lily Qian, +86 21 6141 8673, [email protected], www.tuv-sud.cn
Tags ET Solar news, TUV SUD news, Solar news, Carbon Footprint news,
Date: 2012-11-09
Mansfield Energy Corp. has received LEED Silver certification for the installation of solar power during a recent expansion at their corporate headquarters in Gainesville, GA. Mansfield's corporate headquarters is the first building in Hall County, GA to receive USGBC LEED certification at any level. The expansion project features 324, 305 watt multi-crystalline silicon solar modules powering 10,000 square feet of floor space. By employing a 100kw array of solar panels installed on the roof company's haedqaurter roof. Additional building modifications included enhanced heating and air systems to improve indoor air quality and efficient electrical and plumbing fixtures.
Mansfield Energy is a national leader in the North American energy supply, logistics and services industry and is
focused on partnering with clients to provide innovative, alternative fuel solutions to support their energy supply chain. (Source: Mansfield Energy, Nov. 5, 2012) Contact: Mansfield Energy Corp, www.mansfieldoil.com; USGBC, S. Richard Fedrizzi, President/CEO, (202) 742-3792, www.usgbc.org
Tags USGBC news, Mansfield Energy news, LEED Certification news,
Date: 2012-11-09
BYD, a leading battery manufacturer, and PV specialist Enerpoint Group have joined forces to meet the needs of and develop the energy storage market in Italy.
As part of the partnership, BYD provided Enerpoint with two sets of distributed energy storage systems (DESS) for testing and commissioning. The BYD storage system is especially suitable for energy storage transformation of installed PV generation systems. The company can also provide storage systems with loading functions or discharging to the grid through photovoltaic energy storage and via energy storage batteries. Enerpoint has installed 320 MW in solar modules.
In other BYD news, the company has recently completed and commissioned put first Brazilian rooftop solar project at the Brazilian Concessionaria Ecorodovias highway toll station. The capacity was 21 KW. (Source: BYD, Renewable Energy, Nov. 7, 2012) Contact: BYD, +86 (7) 558 988-8888, www.byd.com
Tags BYD news, Enerpoint news, Solar PV news, Energy Storage news,
Date: 2012-10-29
JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. has won a bid from China Three Gorges New Energy Corp. (CTGNE), a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Three Gorges Corporation (CTGC), to supply 50-MW solar modules for a PV power plant in Gansu Province, China. CTGNE, with more than RMB300 billion in assets, specializes in renewable energy investment and operations, including wind, solar, and hydropower as well as other clean energy technologies.
Three Gorges New Energy actively explores opportunities in renewable energy including wind, solar, and hydropower as well as other clean energy technologies. Three Gorges New Energy specializes in large-scaled renewable energy development and operations.
JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. is a leading solar power product manufacturer with production facilities in Jiangxi and Zhejiang Provinces in China and worldwide sales and marketing offices.
JinkoSolar has built a vertically integrated solar product value chain with an integrated annual capacity of approximately 1.2 GW each for silicon wafers, solar cells and solar modules as of June 30, 2012. (Source: Jinko Solar, Sacramento Bee, 22 Oct., 2012) Contact: Longgen Zhang, JinkoSolar, (415) 402-0502, www.jinkosolar.com
Tags Jinko Solar news, Solar news,
Date: 2012-10-26
A recent study by SmartGreenScans, a Dutch test institute specializing in the life cycle analysis of photovoltaic systems, has found that the carbon footprint of modules produced by Innotech Solar (ITS) is as much as 80 percent better than that of standard crystalline modules. While over 870 kilograms (kg) of CO2 are emitted per kWp when manufacturing conventional crystalline modules, emissions total between just 180 and 265 kg of CO2 per kWp with ITS modules, depending on the module type.
The study also found that ITS modules achieve higher energy yields per kWp of installed capacity than standard modules, meaning that they generate more environmentally-friendly power and thus avoid additional CO2 emissions.
The Innotech Solar manufacturing process utilizes especially low quantities of energy, as the modules consist of optimized solar cells -- ITS research teams have developed an innovative method of improving the performance of new, unused cells from other manufacturers. This involves using thermal imaging to identify cell areas that are impairing performance and then isolating them using special automated lasers.
Strict in-house cell testing ensures the outstanding quality of ITS modules. Innotech Solar modules is also validated by tests from independent reviewers such as the Fraunhofer Institute and the Max Planck Institute.
The production sites in Halle and Narvik are powered by green electricity from solar and hydropower plants. Short transportation routes from the factories in Scandinavia and Germany to the main sales markets in Europe additionally improve the company's carbon footprint. (Source: Innotech Solar, Specification OnLine, Oct. 26, 2012) Contact: Georg Eversheim, Innotech Solar Group, (760) 727-7566, georg.eversheim[email protected], www.innotechsolar.com
Tags Innotech Solar news, Carbon Footprint news,
Date: 2012-10-10
A 725 kW photovoltaic system from Conergy will supply almond grower T&P Farms in Arbuckle, California with 95 percent of its energy needs and allow T&P to offset thousands in high utility costs.
The Conergy system will be divided into two installations on both the south face of the Hull Storage Barn and atop the Elevated Solar Structure used to both generate energy and store T&P Farm equipment. Both installations will feature 3,024 Conergy PM 240P Watt solar modules and 3.9 miles of Conergy Mounting System rail. Producing 1,138,280 kWh annually, the installations will prevent the release of more than 892 tons of harmful CO2 greenhouse gas per year, reduce energy consumption, and save millions in electricity costs for T&P. (Source: Conergy, 9 Oct., 2012) Contact: Conergy Solar, David Vincent, Project Development Manager, (888) 396-6611, www.conergy.us
Tags Conergy news, Solar news,
Date: 2012-10-10
First Solar, Kiran Energy Solar Power, a Mumbai semiconductor producer, and Mahindra Solar have completed a supply agreement whereby First Solar will supply thin-film solar modules for two solar PV power plants totaling 50 MW DC to be constructed in India's Rajasthan state. First Solar will supply more than 585,000 of its advanced, thin-film solar modules for the two projects of 30 MWDC and 20 MWDC. Construction on both projects is expected to begin this year and be completed in Q113.
The projects are part of the second phase of utility-scale solar projects under India's Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.
(Source: First Solar, Nasdaq, Oct, 2012) Contact: First Solar, Jim Brown, President , (602) 414-9300, www.firstsolar.com; Mahindra Solar, Roma Balwani, VP, Corporate Communications, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., +91 (22) 249-75176, [email protected], www.mahindra.com
Tags First Solar news, Mahindra Solar news, Solar news,
Date: 2012-10-03
China's ET Solar Group Corp. is supplying PV modules to Johannesburg's Flexopower Energies (Pty) Ltd, for various rooftop projects in South Africa. The modules were used in commercial and residential rooftops installations and most systems are connected to the grid. . Flexopower is a system integrator and provided EPC services for these projects.
ET Solar has sales and marketing subsidiaries and offices in Asia, Europe, and North America,and provides solar modules, turnkey solutions services and PV balance of system components to customers in over 50 countries.
(Source: ET Solar Group Corp., Oct. 2, 2012) Contact: ET Solar, www.etsolar.com; Flexpower,
www.flexopower.com
Tags ET Solar news, Rooftop Solar news,
Date: 2012-10-02
A top foundry company that has been increasing its dominance in accepting the outsourcing of microchip production from companies around the globe is now making serious gains in advanced thin-film solar cell manufacturing as well. The Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) made significant investments several years ago to become a major player in the production of copper-indium-gallium- selenide (CIGS) solar cells. One of the primary driving forces for all thin-film solar modules is the benefit of using very-thin deposited layers of semiconductor material in order to avoid the high costs of the raw materials and energy required to produce high-purity single crystal silicon wafers that are applied towards the majority of the solar cell market. TSMC Solar has successfully manufactured 14.2 percent efficient modules after several years of R&D in conjunction with its pilot production line at its advanced manufacturing facility located in Taiwan. These panels have entered the standard industry certification process and commercial shipments expected early in 2013. TSMC has also achieved stellar improvement in its production modules that are repeatedly achieving 13 percent module efficiency. Since TSMC began customer shipments in April, TSMC modules have been sold to customers in leading solar markets globally including Germany, Italy, U.S., China and India. It is aiming to grasp market share from the world leader in thin-film, namely CdTe, solar cells, First Solar (FSLR), headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. FSLR has been devalued sharply as a company as its stock has dipped by near 70 percent over the last year, while it struggles with falling selling prices for its cadnium telluride (CdTe) solar modules due to highly competitive, cheaper crystalline silicon solar cell inventory being pumped into the market from China and as well as other poor business conditions. However, it was announced this week that First Solar may win a contract to supply NextEra Energy Inc. for potentially the world’s largest solar farm. First Solar may be the only manufacturer with the capacity to supply enough CdTe solar panels for NextEra’s Blythe project in southern California, which is currently evaluating the technology. What’s more, First Solar is building the 290-megawatt Agua Caliente solar farm in Arizona for NRG. Currently, it is about 85 percent complete with approximately 250 megawatts of capacity in operation, making it the world’s biggest solar project producing electricity, according to First Solar. Amid First Solar’s top spot in thin-film solar cells and recent successful contracts obtained globally, it faces a rising star in TSMC, which has grown over the last 10 years to be a world leader in advanced silicon microchip production. TSMC has a number of advantages over First Solar to aid any significant attempt to overtake First Solar in this regard including lower cost manufacturing, cash flow generation from its high-profit microchip production and a larger workforce from its related semiconductor technology and manufacturing division. (Source: Phoenix Green Business Examiner, Sept. 28, 2012)
Date: 2012-09-27
ONTARIO, Canada, Sept. 24, 2012 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Canadian Solar Inc. (the "Company" or "Canadian Solar") (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, provided the solar modules for one of Europe's largest skiing halls. The PV rooftop installation on the alpincenter in Hamburg-Wittenburg, Germany, uses Canadian Solar modules with a total output of 3.6 MW. The winter sports center's operator reaps a double benefit: using the self-produced solar power significantly offsets energy costs while at the same time reducing the power needed to run the cooling system thank to the shadowing effect underneath the solar system. The owner, the Dutch Van der Valk Group, was facing the challenge of significantly reducing the energy costs for operating the building, which features 30,000 m² of ski slopes. Installing the structure-mounted rooftop system allows to operate the facility during 365 days a year, using only the self-generated power. This makes the operators independent from the public grid and EEG subsidies. A side benefit of the PV system: the shadow it produces on the roof results in a 50 percent lower surface temperature. This drastically reduces the load on the cooling technology which keeps the indoor temperature at -1 degree Celsius throughout the year, translating into lower energy consumption. The project was planned and implemented by Hamburg-based project company Dr. Metje Consulting. Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ) is one of the world's largest solar companies. As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingot, wafer, solar cell, solar module and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. For more information, please visit www.canadiansolar.com. (Source: Canadian Solar, 24 Sept., 2012)
Date: 2012-09-24
With the mothballing of some of its solar cell production lines and cutting 1,500 jobs in China, SunTech Power's operational costs and solar cell capacity has been temporarily reduced. According to company CEO David King, "In this rapidly evolving solar market, it is crucial to evaluate market trends and adapt our business to suit. In light of the preliminary U.S. anti-dumping tariff, the European anti-dumping investigation, and oversupply of solar modules, we have decided to right-size our production capacity and continue to optimize our organization. With a smaller manufacturing base we will be able to lower production cost, increase utilization rates and improve product performance. With these and other initiatives we target to create a sustainable business model and return to positive operating cash flow in 2013." Suntech is just one of many companies to feel the squeeze in the PV sector.
Post the restructuring, Suntech reports that its operational solar cell capacity will temporarily be reduced to 1.8GW, module capacity will remain at 2.4GW and wafer capacity will remain at 1.6GW.
The restructuring initiatives are expected to cut costs and improve the utilization rate of solar cell production facilities
Suntech is on track to reduce its operating expenses (excluding non-recurring items) by 20% in 2012 compared with 2011. Impairments related to the closure of facilities, severance payments and other related expenses are currently being assessed and will be disclosed in the Company's third quarter 2012 earnings report. (Source: Suntech, 17 Sept., 2012) Contact: Suntech, Eric Luo, VP, (415) 882-9922, www.suntech-power.com
Tags Suntech Power news,
Tags Suntech news,
Date: 2012-09-21
Large-scale solar energy project developer and systems integrator Stellar Energy has completed a 960 kilowatt (kW) solar project for film maker James Cameron's Lightstorm Entertainment Inc. The system consists of three large roof-mounted PV arrays and features 3,692 solar modules and three inverters, which produce enough electricity to power Lightstorm's sound stages and offices at Manhattan Beach Studios (MBS) Media Campus. (Source: PRN, Sept. 18, 2012) Contact: Chris Phipps, Director of Marketing, Stellar Energy Solutions, (888) 242-8701, [email protected], www.stellarenergy.com
Tags Stellar Energy news, Rooftop Solar news,
Date: 2012-09-17
ReneSola Ltd, global manufacturer of solar PV modules and wafers, will sell 512 KW of solar modules to Massachusetts-based real estate developer Cummings Properties. The units will be installed on the roof of Cummings Center, a two-million square foot corporate campus and retail center in Beverly, Massachusetts. Design and construction of the Center's rooftop solar system, as well as integration of ReneSola's solar modules, will be performed by Cummings Properties. To date, Cummings Properties has completed six rooftop solar projects totaling approximately 1 MW, with roughly 1 MW of additional projects in construction or planning phases.
Founded in 2005, ReneSola capitalizes on proprietary technologies, economies of scale, high production quality, and technological innovations and know-how, to leverage its in-house virgin polysilicon and solar cell and module production capabilities and to provide cost-competitive solar wafers and modules. ReneSola possesses a global network of suppliers and customers which includes leading global module and cell manufacturers. With its vertically integrated supply chain, ReneSola customers are receiving their solar modules and wafers direct from the source. (Source: ReneSola Ltd, 13, Sept., 2012) Contact: ReneSola Ltd.,
Tony Hung,
+86-573-8473-9011,
[email protected], www.renesola.com
Tags ReneSola news, Rooftop Solar news,
Date: 2012-09-12
Canadian Solar, Inc. has launched its new ResidentialAC module, the latest addition to its Intelligrated™ Power product family. Intelligrated™ Power integrates the intelligence of panel electronics with high performance solar modules to deliver smart, state-of-the-art solar power products that maximize system performance while reducing the cost of system design and installation.
ResidentialAC is a revolutionary AC solar energy solution with advanced technology that delivers a double-digit increase in solar power production over traditional micro inverters. Pre-installed at the factory, ResidentialAC's advanced inverter technology eliminates life-limiting components, dramatically increasing the inverters' life expectancy.
ResidentialAC's voltage-safe plug-and-play technology is easily configurable to any system size, allowing system modifications and eliminating the necessity for highly skilled labor. The module is covered by Canadian Solar's 25 year warranty and by matching warranty insurance. Monitoring software is included, allowing customers module-level tracking of solar panel performance to optimize the system's solar energy production.
(Source: Canadian Solar, RedOrbit, 10 Sept., 2012) Contact: Canadian Solar, (925) 866-2700, www.canadiansolar.com
Tags Canadian Solar news, Solar news,
Date: 2012-08-16
Canadian Solar Inc., one of the world's largest solar power companies, has signed a C$93 million (US$93.8 million) loan agreement with China Development Bank. The loan facility has a five-year maturity and will be used to partially finance the previously announced C$185 million (US$186.6 million) acquisition of a majority interest in 16 solar projects representing approximately 190MW to 200MW DC owned by the former SkyPower Limited.
As a leading vertically integrated provider of ingots, wafers, solar cells, solar modules and other solar applications, Canadian Solar designs, manufactures and delivers solar products and solar system solutions for on-grid and off-grid use to customers worldwide. With operations in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia, Canadian Solar provides premium quality, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solar solutions to support global, sustainable development. (Source: Canadian Solar, Aug. 14, 2012) Contact: Canadian Solar, Shawn (Xiaohua) Qu, Chairman, President, CEO, (519) 954-2057, www.canadiansolar.com; Sky Power Solutions, (888) 641-3912, www.skypowersolutions.com
Tags China Development Bank news, Canadian Solar news, SkyPower news,
Date: 2012-08-14
Trend-setting premium-performance MAGE POWERTEC PLUS AC-PV module most attractive highlight; high-efficiency module series and complete system solutions round off extraordinary showcase in San Francisco Dublin (Georgia), July 18, 2012. – MAGE SOLAR presented its strongest and most versatile product and service portfolio to date at Intersolar North America last week. The introduction of the MAGE POWERTEC PLUS AC-PV module was one of the highlights that especially attracted visitors to the company’s booth. MAGE POWERTEC PLUS AC-PV Modules The brand-new plug-and-play AC-module made its world debut at Intersolar and was immediately hugely popular among booth visitors. A pre-installed, frame-attached SolarBridge Pantheon II microinverter significantly reduces installation time as well as costs and offers even greater install security since no DC-wiring is required. The signature 30 year 80% power guarantee MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules carry is matched by a 30 year product warranty on the microinverter. An ARRA-compliant US-version of the AC-PV module is available in the 240 Watt power class. Read the complete press review about the new MAGE POWERTEC PLUS AC-PV Module here: MAGE SOLAR introduces First Plug- and Play AC Module MAGE POWERTEC PLUS High Wattage Modules Industry-leading features like zero to +5 Watt tolerances and 30 year 80% power guarantees have made MAGE SOLAR modules some of the most reliable and well trusted among PV-installers. The company has also introduced mono and polycrystalline 235-250 Watt high-performance versions to further optimize power yield per watt. The 240-Watt module is also available as fully ARRA-compliant product. Read the complete press review about the new MAGE POWERTEC PLUS High-Performance Modules here: MAGE SOLAR presents next power-generation of signature high-wattage modules MAGE POWERTEC PLUS Mono Black 245 Watt The black MAGE POWERTEC PLUS module is now also offered in a monocrystalline 245 Watt version. The 60-cell module features a black frame and back sheet that will blend in aesthetically pleasingly on darker roofs and other special-design applications. Mounting Solutions MAGE SYSTEMTEC presents an installer-friendly mounting solution for ground mounts and pitched roofs that combines time-saving click-and-slide technology with highest quality components. Just in time for Intersolar, MAGE SOLAR also introduced Knubix, a lightweight, non penetrating mounting system for large commercial and industrial roofs. MAGE SOLAR Finance Services As a complete system provider of turn-key PV-solutions MAGE SOLAR has partnered with several well-respected financing partners to offer attractive lease and loan options. Customers can choose between inventory financing, residential and commercial financing for end-users and even municipal programs. MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY Distinguishing itself as one of the premier PV-training facilities, MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY has an expansive course catalogue targeted to PV-professionals of all levels. The recently added OSHA 10 and 30 hour Construction Industry Training is part of the well-rounded approach so installers can meet the demands of the fast-growing solar industry with the highest level of knowledge and education. We would appreciate sample copies of any reprints. MAGE SOLAR – The Sun on Your Side MAGE SOLAR USA, headquartered in Dublin, Georgia, specializes in complete solar systems and provides high-quality photovoltaic modules, intelligent mounting systems and high-performance brand inverters. As a subsidiary of the international MAGE GROUP, it uses the Group’s 40 years of know-how to develop optimally coordinated system solutions. A competent partner network guarantees profitable solar energy systems for customers throughout the Americas and in 21 more countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. In 2011, the company generated U$280 in sales with around 180 employees. (Source: Magesolar, Aug. 14, 2012) www.magesolar.com
Date: 2012-08-07
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc., a developer of state-of-the-art, flexible thin-film photovoltaic modules, has been selected to provide BIPV solar modules in a pilot application at electronic devices maker Foxconn's new factory in Zhenzhou City, Henan Province, China.
Ascent's modules' flexible and lightweight form factor allows the modules to be integrated seamlessly into the building structure in ways traditional glass-back PV technology cannot. The integration of the modules will allow the factory to utilize cost-effective, high-performance solar power utilizing Ascent's industry leading CIGS technology to deliver the highest power density available on thin-film plastic substrates.
(Source: Ascent Solar, Aug. 6, 2012) Contact: Ascent Solar, Victor Lee, Pres., www.ascentsolar.com
Tags Ascent Solar news, Solar Modules news,
Date: 2012-08-01
The world's largest carrot grower, Grimmway Enterprises Inc. has contracted with Conergy for the installation of approximately 3.4 megawatts of solar energy at 5 Grimmway production sites located throughout California's San Joaquin valley. Construction at the first three sites is currently underway and will be completed in 2012. Each facility will produce 1.15 MW of renewable energy and totaling approximately 3.4MW. The second phase of installations will be considered at a future date. Each installation will feature 4,760 Conergy PM 240 Watt solar modules, on three Grimmway carrot farms located in California. The installations will prevent the release of more than six million pounds of harmful CO2 greenhouse gas per year, reduce energy consumption, and save millions in reduced electric costs. (Source: Conergy, July 31, 2012) Contact: Conergy Solar, David Vincent, Project Development Manager, (888) 396-6611, www.conergy.us
Tags Conergy Solar news,
Date: 2012-07-31
The University of Georgia has made a strategic commitment to reduce its total energy consumption 20% by 2020 and is actively participating in the Governor's Energy Challenge, an initiative which promotes energy efficiency and a reduction in state electricity consumption through a number of long-term programs. The university's Solar Demonstration Project will generate nearly 30,000 kWh of electricity each year while saving $3,000 in energy costs at the same time. Translated into a bigger scale, campus-wide solar deployment would have the potential to create a stream of revenue for a school that has been managing serious budget cuts over the last several years.
The first solar PV-array at the University of Georgia was made possible through the concerted efforts of many UGA students, faculty and staff, in particular the GoGreen Alliance student organization, the Office of University Architects, and the Office of Sustainability. Funding for the project was secured through grants, student fees, and a utility award by the school's Facilities Management Division.
(Source: MAGE Solar, PR, July 31, 2012)
Contact: MAGE Solar USA, Joe Thomas, CEO and President, (877) 311-6243, www.magesolar.com
Tags MAGE Solar news,
Date: 2012-07-30
Nice Corporation to use Talesun modules for its residential projects Changshu, China (PRWEB) July 27, 2012 China's Zhongli Talesun Solar Co., Ltd. recently signed a 26MW module supply agreement with Japanese real estate developer Nice Corporation, whereby Zhongli Talesun will provide at least 26MW of its TP660P and TP572M solar modules to Nice Corporation for their residential projects. The agreement marks the successful entrance of Talesun Solar in the Japanese PV market.
Talesun Solar is an international operating producer of premium quality solar modules and cells for both private and industrial sectors. The company's 210,000 square-meter, fully automated production plant in the Chinese province of Jiangsu will reach a production capacity of 2GW by the end of 2012. Talesun Solar has subsidiaries in Singapore, Munich and San Jose, California. (Source: Zhongli Talesun, PR, July 27, 2012) Contact: Nice Corporation,www.nice.co.jp;
Talesun Solar, www.talesun.com
Tags Solar news,
Date: 2012-07-17
Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Kyocera Solar, Inc. is reporting the opening of a new solar products warehouse in Cherry Hill, N.J. to augment its established distribution points in San Diego and Scottsdale, Ariz. The new warehouse will help ensure fast, cost-effective service for Kyocera customers on the U.S. East Coast. Kyocera partnered with NFI, a leading international provider of logistics, warehousing, and distribution services, for its new warehousing location. The company began shipping from the New Jersey facility in late June.
Kyocera also partnered with NFI Solar, a developer of solar electric system installations and subsidiary of NFI. In 2010, Kyocera provided more than 6,100 solar modules for a 1.3-megawatt installation on the roof of the 290,000-sq.-ft. building where Kyocera solar modules are now warehoused.
(Source: Kyocera, PR, 16 July, 2012) Contact: KYOSERA Solar, Tetsuo Kuba, President, http://global.kyocera.com
Tags KYOCERA news,
Date: 2012-07-12
Researchers at Dow Corning and the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems (CSE) are investigating silicon as a sustainable and cost effective solar cell coating material. Previously, manufacturers have used expensive ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) coatings. Now, Silicone is a promising material and has been used to encapsulate PV modules, but until now, it has not been widely used for laminating solar modules.
Prototypes of silicone-laminated cells were prepared by Fraunhofer scientists and tested in a climate chamber at low temperatures under cyclic loads. The cells were then tested with a light flasher and electroluminescence imaging to detect microcracks.
Compared to traditional solar modules, the silicone-encased PV modules were more resistant to cyclic loading of the type panels experience in strong winds and low temperatures.
According to Dow Corning Solar Solutions global science and technology manager Andy Goodwin, the test findings, which were published at the 26th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference, could help improve understanding of material requirements for solar modules, particularly in regard to sustainability and output. (Source: Dow Corning, Fraunhofer, Photonics, 6 July, 2012) Contact: Fraunhofer, www.fraunhofer.de/en
Tags Dow Corning news, Fraunhofer news, Solar Cell Coating news,
Date: 2012-06-29
"Abound Solar's closure is an unfortunate but very real consequence of the continued slide in crystalline silicon (c-Si) pricing and the increased competition for limited global demand of solar modules," said MJ Shiao, Senior Analyst at GTM Research. "Abound was still in the earlier stages of technology and commercial development and despite over $220 million in private investment and $70 million drawn from its $400 million U.S. DOE loan guarantee, simply didn't have the cost and downstream reach to survive in the tumultuous solar market."
GTM Research notes that c-Si module prices, which fell by nearly 50 percent over the course of 2011, will continue to drop, possibly reaching $0.76 per watt by the end of this year (versus $1.04 per watt in Q4 2011). In the current pricing environment, module manufacturers need to be well-capitalized in order to survive the shakeout. Abound suspended commercial production early in the first quarter of 2012 to retool with a higher efficiency product by the end of the year. Today's announcement indicates that its cash preservation survival strategy was too late and not aggressive enough.
"Abound's cadmium telluride (CdTe) product had little differentiation from First Solar and also suffered from lower efficiency," said Shyam Mehta, a Senior Analyst at GTM. "Produced at lower scale and likely a higher cost, the chance for survival in the current market environment was always slim. Unfortunately, Abound and other module manufacturing closures including thin film and c-Si suppliers alike, is still just the tip of the iceberg. GTM Research forecasts at least 21 GW of PV module manufacturing capacity to retire by the end of 2015."
(Source: GTM Research, PR,28 June, 2012) Contact: GTM Research, (617) 500-4216,
Shayle Kann, kann@gtmresearch, www.gtmresearch.com
Tags Abound Solar news, GTM Research news,
Date: 2012-06-28
In one of its largest Slovenian solar projects to date, Hamburg, Germany-headquarted Conergy will be equipping fourteen schools and municipal buildings with solar plants with a total capacity of some 700 kW. Some 2,500 Conergy solar modules will produce over 750,000 kilowatt hours of clean solar energy a year, to be fed into the power grid by 40 Conergy IPG T inverters. Each installation will be monitored by a Conergy VisionBox. All fourteen of the roof-top installations are now underway.
"At 700 kilowatts, the project as a whole is relatively large for the current Slovak market, although it is made up of 14 individual rooftop installations," said Stefan Balbierz, responsible for Conergy's activities in the German, Czech and Slovakian market. "As is the case throughout Europe, the trend in Slovakia is also to move onto the roof. The focus is on smaller rooftop plants with a capacity of up to 100 kilowatts. This is the only type of installation that the government is currently encouraging with a feed-in tariff."
Due to the initially very high feed-in tariff, the solar market developed very dynamically in Slovakia last year, leading to it becoming overheated at the beginning of 2011. After an appropriate adjustment of the feed-in tariffs, experts are now expecting the market to balance out at the 2010 level with a further addition of up to 100 MW per year. (Source: Conergy, June 26, 2012) Contact: Conergy Solar, David Vincent, Project Development Manager, (888) 396-6611, www.conergy.us
Tags Conergy Solar news,
Date: 2012-06-28
DuPont Apollo, a wholly owned subsidiary of DuPont specializing in silicon-based thin film photovoltaic (PV) technology, has supplied PV modules capable of generating 5 MW of electricity to a solar power plant in Gujarat owned by Yantra eSolar India Pvt Ltd., a leading provider of renewable energy in India. The solar plant is scheduled to be grid connected before the end of August, 2012.
Yantra is quickly becoming India's leading provider of renewable energy generated by advanced solar PV technologies, products and services catering towards the solar energy eco-system, with projects potentially spanning all 28 states and 7 union territories, by 2020.
DuPont offers a range of market-leading products that serve the renewable energy industry, including enabling materials for photovoltaics, biofuels, renewably sourced materials and technologies engineered to improve energy efficiency. (Source: DuPont, 27 June, 2012) Contact: DuPont,
www.dupont.com; Yantra, www.yantrasoftware.com
Tags DuPont news,
Date: 2012-06-27
Tempe, Arizona-based First Solar has installed its 10-millionth solar photovoltaic (PV) module in a utility-scale solar power project. The installation took place at the 550 megawatt alternating current (AC) Desert Sunlight Solar Farm project that the company is constructing for NextEra Energy Resources and GE Energy Financial Services. The Desert Sunlight project near the community of Desert Center, California is part of First Solar's 2.7 gigawatt (GW) AC utility-scale solar project pipeline in North America.
First Solar has cumulatively produced almost 80 million of its advanced thin-film solar modules, enough to circle the earth almost 2.5 times. The total number represents a peak generating capacity of more than 6GW, enough to power 3 million homes, and displaces more than 4 million tons of CO2 per year. (Source: First Solar, 25 June, 2012) Contact: First Solar, Jim Brown, President , (602) 414-9300, , www.firstsolar.com; Steven Stengel, NextEra Energy, (888) 867-3050, [email protected], www.nexteraenergy.com
Tags First Solar news, NextEra Energy Resources news,
Date: 2012-06-20
ET Solar Group Corp. has adopted ERGO Insurance Group insurance solutions for its system and module sales in key solar markets. The captioned insurance package covers all risks for property damages, destruction or loss of insured property due to theft, burglary, robbery and looting for projects that use ET Solar modules. In addition to module sales, ERGO could also extend the insurance for system owners that own power plants that ET Solar builds up and provides modules for.
ERGO is part of the Munich Re Group and a major insurance company that has over 40 million customers and provides a wide range of insurance products.
(Source; ET Solar, PR, June 14, 2012) Contact: Dennis Shaw, CEO, ET Solar, (925) 460- 9898 (California office), www.etsolar.com; ERGO,
www.ergo.com
Tags ET Solar news,
Date: 2012-06-06
Denver-headquartered Conergy's Solar Large Projects Group recently completed construction and installation of a fixed tilt ground and roof-mounted 510kW solar electric installation for Kirschenman Enterprises Inc. at their cold storage facility in Edison, California. Conergy was the project developer, EPC provider for this project and helped secure a financing vehicle that made the project possible and successful.
Using Conergy's PH 235P solar modules and Conergy's SunTop and SolarLinea II mounting systems the solar system will produce 768,182 kWh of solar energy annually which is equivalent to reducing CO2 levels by 15,063 tons over 24 years or not driving 49,018,344 miles and planting 258.1 acres of trees.
Besides the environmental benefits, Kirschenman Enterprises will offset their electrical costs now and in the future enabling long term profitability and savings.
(Source: PR, Conergy, June 5, 2012)
Contact: Conergy Solar, David Vincent, Project Development Manager, (888) 396-6611, www.conergy.us; Kirschenman Enterprises, (661) 366-5736
Tags Conergy Solar news,
Date: 2012-05-23
DuPont has completed a $295 million expansion that has more than doubled production capacity for DuPont™ Tedlar® polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) film at its Circleville, Ohio facility. Tedlar® films serve as the essential component of photovoltaic backsheets, providing long-term durability and reliable performance for solar modules exposed to the harshest conditions.
"DuPont has recently signed supply contracts with several leading solar panel manufacturers, and with more customers qualifying and certifying Tedlar® every day, we anticipate even greater future demand," said David B. Miller, president, DuPont Electronics & Communications.
Yingli recently signed a $100 million photovoltaic materials purchase agreement with DuPont, including protective backsheet for solar modules made with DuPont™ Tedlar® polyvinyl fluoride film. Trina Solar, China Sunergy/China Electric Equipment Group (CEEG), and Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd., also use
DuPont™ Tedlar®PVF films.
DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, visit
(Source: DuPont PR, 22 May, 2012) Contact: DuPont , http://photovoltaics.dupont.com, www.dupont.com
Tags Solar Backsheet news,
Date: 2012-05-17
Axuntek Solar Energy Co., Ltd. has introduced its new IEC-certified Copper Indium Gallium (di)Selenide (CIGS) thin film solar cell modules using DuPont™ PV5400 series ionomer encapsulant. These frameless solar modules, which are the first adoption of DuPont™PV5400 into CIGS technology, take advantage of the ionomer's excellent clarity and low moisture ingress, which combine to create a highly efficient module with a low cost position due to the elimination of edge seal and frame. The frameless module allows higher density module shipments, reducing shipping costs. (Source: DuPont, 15 May, 2012) Contact: DuPont, http://photovoltaics.dupont.com, www.dupont.com; Axuntek Solar Energy, www.axuntek.com
Tags DuPont Photovoltaic news,
Date: 2012-05-16
Dublin, Georgia-based MAGE SOLAR reports that its premium high-efficiency modules are part of an ambitious historic redevelopment project in Louisiana. Over 3300 MAGE POWERTEC PLUS US-modules supply 1.4 GWh of clean, reliable energy per year to six housing projects that are part of the revitalization plan.
The project was designed, engineered and executed by Pontchartrain Mechanical (PMC) of New Orleans, one of the largest mechanical contractors in the Gulf coast region and the leading provider of environmental systems. MAGE SOLAR has been working closely with PMC to develop optimal solutions for each of the individual installations included in the project: 2,000 black MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules were chosen to provide an integrated solution on the historical building portion of the project, and sophisticated power optimizers are installed to avoid power losses due to shading from trees, light poles or buildings.
Project developer HRI Properties, has been pioneering innovative methods for building neighborhoods and creating entire communities. MAGE SOLAR's maximum-efficiency modules with their industry leading 30-year power output guarantee have been integrated into the project by HRI as a vital part of the company's sustainability mission and long-term energy cost projection.
Project funding was made possible through the ARRA and the EmPower Louisiana initiative administered by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources. Net metering arrangements have been made with the local electric utilities. (Source: MAGESOLAR, PR, 15 May, 2012)
Contact: MAGE Solar USA, Joe Thomas, CEO and President, (877) 311-6243, www.magesolar.com
Tags MAGE Solar news,
Date: 2012-05-03
The Hawaii Department of Education has partnered with Hawaii Pacific Solar (HPS), Conergy and RC Energy to complete a series of solar electric installations at public schools on the island of Oahu. in Hawaii. A 122.675kW installation at Aiea High School completed by local clean-energy integrator Hawaii Pacific Solar (HPS) marks the completion of the first of many planned installations. Conergy supplied 522 modules and a Conergy SunTop mounting system, that will produce approximately 174,000 kWh annually preventing 264,600 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. The school is estimated to save more than $500,000 over the 20-year life of the photovoltaic system.
HPS won the Department of Education contract to install solar energy systems at Aiea, Kahuku, Kaimuki and Waianae high schools under a Power Purchase Agreement whereby the system is owned, operated and maintained by RC Energy. And, as part of the PPA agreement between Conergy and RC Energy, Conergy has guaranteed the construction and performance of the project to RC Energy. Additional sites awarded by the DOE will be completed over the next 12 months (Source: PR Conergy, 1 May, 2012) Contact: Jessica Fishman, Marketing Communications Specialist, Conergy, (720) 305- 0738, [email protected], www.conergy.us
Tags Conergy news,
Date: 2012-05-02
Aecon Group subsidiary Miwel has been contracted by Northland Power for building six 10 MW solar projects in Ontario. The projects are situated close to Burk's Falls near Huntsville, and Belleville and Smiths Falls in Eastern Ontario. The projects will incorporate over 40,000 solar modules which will be mounted on fixed structures. The power will be purchased by Hydro One. Further, the projects will market power through Ontario's renewable energy Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) program. The construction work on all six projects is underway for completion in 2013.
Over 130 MW of FIT solar projects have been acquired by Northland Power which owns and operates clean power production projects in Saskatchewan, Quebec and Ontario.
Aecon specializes in the construction of both ground mounted and rooftop solar plants.
(Source: Aecon PR 2 may, 2012) Contact: Aecon, www.aecon.com ; Northland Power, Jim Cipolla, VP, (416) 962-6262, www.northlandpower.ca
Tags Northland Power news,
Date: 2012-04-17
According to GBI Research, government renewable energy incentives will continue to drive technological advances in the global semiconductor market, GBI found that government incentives and feed-in-tariffs (FITs) are providing vital, worldwide support for investors in the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems market, increasing the number of installations in many regions and creating development potential for semiconductors in solar PV systems.
Major markets in Europe, including Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, France and the UK, have witnessed market growth for PV installations, resulting in an increased demand for semiconductors used in PV systems. FIT programs implemented to attract solar PV installation investors and develop renewable energy generation have also been successful in several US states, including Hawaii, California, Florida, New Jersey and Washington.
In Asia-Pacific, China's 973 Scheme supports the development of future solar PV technologies, including thin-film and dye sensitized solar cells, while Japan's US$25.6 million-project to improve its solar PV power generation technology through the application of new materials and solar cell structures has given the semiconductor market the boost it needed during times of financial uncertainty.
Companies are already benefiting from the incentives, with sales revenue of semiconductors in solar PV systems hitting $27.75 billion in 2011 and expected to further rise to $32.06 billion by the end of 2015. JA Solar has announced that it may establish a solar cell production base in the US to capture potential regional markets, while global company Suntech increased its overall production capacity and shipments of solar modules in 2010.
Increased semiconductor revenue has enabled the development of technology that has improved the efficiency of semiconductors and increased the performance of PV systems. The use of silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs in PV inverters increases their efficiency by reducing the switching and conduction losses of transistors and diodes. Single crystal and multi-crystalline technologies are also being replaced by ultra-thin silicon and ribbon silicon technologies, and amorphous silicon and CdTe in thin-film cells is being replaced by CIGS.
(Source: GBI Research, DigiTimes, April 16, 2012) Contact: GBI Research, (646) 395-5477, www.gbiresearch.com
Tags GBI Research news, Semiconductor news,
Date: 2012-04-10
Eighteen industrial and research partners have joined forces for a research project, coordinated by Portugal's Forschungszentrum Julich, that will focus on the development of improved thin-film PV products. The initiative has received €9.3 million in funding. The initiative, an EU Fast Track project, aims refine thin-film PV technology and produce a marketable prototype with 12% efficiency within the next three years.
In recent years, various companies have increased the efficiency of marketable thin-film solar modules to the present level of 10%. Although these modules are still not as efficient as conventional solar cells, they can be produced much more economically, according to the research partners.
The group believes that thin-film silicon solar modules designed as tandem solar cells have particularly strong potential. These cells consist of two layers, one on top of the other, that absorb different fractions of sunlight. Each of these two cell layers is divided into several sublayers, which all influence each other in a complex manner. Because these interactions are difficult to predict, existing industrial thin-film solar cells make use of proven combinations of components and substrates.
For this project, representatives from research and industry who previously pursued different technologies are now pooling their expertise in order to combine the best components. The researchers plan to experiment with various nanomaterials and optical functional layers and refine the entire process chain. (Source: Forschungszentrum Julich, April, 9, 2012)
Contact: Forschungszentrum, www.fz-juelich.de
Tags Thin Film Solar news,