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Groundbreaking of North America’s Largest Solar Photovoltaic Energy Park
Joint venture partners SkyPower Corp., a Lehman Brothers Company, and SunEdison Canada announced on April 21st, 2008 the official groundbreaking of First Light, North America’s
largest solar photovoltaic energy park to date, located on approximately 300 acres of land in Lennox & Addington County, Ontario. Construction of the 19 megawatt (MW) solar park is
anticipated to be completed by the end of 2009. Local communities will benefit from clean renewable energy sufficient to power more than 2,000 homes annually. The Government
of Ontario in concert with the Ontario Power Authority, which launched the innovative Standard Offer Program in 2006, have created a unique program that provides a platform for
stimulating investment and job creation in the renewable energy sector. The historic groundbreaking of First Light today demonstrates the strong support of the provincial government,
municipal leaders, and communities and is a clear indication that Ontario’s renewable energy targets are achievable. First Light is an important first step of many towards
delivering secure, sustainable and clean energy to Ontarians for generations to come.
Clean energy for 20 years
First Light will be built in two phases. The power generated from the project will be distributed through the Hydro One utility, providing clean energy to customers in the Township of
Stone Mills for 20 years. The environmental and health benefits of the two-phase facility are substantial. It is estimated that First Light will reduce yearly carbon emissions by an
amount equal to displacing 4,200 cars and light trucks each driving 19,000 kilometers (about 12,000 miles) per year. "This is an appropriate and valuable way to make use of this
property", said the Reeve of the Township of Stone Mills, Debbie Thompson. "We are proud to say that Stone Mills Township will be home to North America’s largest solar energy
park."
Renewable Energy Standard Offer Program garnered 1,000 megawatts of contracted generation
"This project is a welcome addition to our county’s industrial base and we look forward to welcoming similar type projects in the future. The province commends SkyPower and
SunEdison Canada for breaking ground on this very significant project", said Ontario Minister of Energy Gerry Phillips. "In just over one year, the Renewable Energy Standard Offer
Program has already exceeded its 10-year target of garnering 1,000 megawatts of contracted generation. We look forward to the program yielding success stories for years to come."
2008-04-30 Courtesy: SunEdison Canada Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Fronius Photovoltaic Datalogger "Web": One product - countless communication channels
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Fronius Datalogger Web: New perspectives for
analysis and monitoring of PV systems.
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The innovative "Fronius Datalogger Web" is the latest product for data communication from the technology leader Fronius International GmbH. The Datalogger, which is based on Ethernet
technology, opens up completely new possibilities and perspectives for the analysis and monitoring of PV systems for both experienced PV installers as well as interested operators of PV
systems. "Our ambitious goal was to develop a Datalogger that would provide a quick overview of a photovoltaic system from any PC in the world with an Internet connection. Our
development effort always focused on user-friendliness and ease-of-use", emphasizes Markus Brandstötter, Project Manager of Fronius Datalogger Web. The result of this
intensive research and development work is a future-proof, customer-friendly Datalogger that functions like its own small web server that automatically converts data from the system
into a website. The Datalogger Web opens up access to the entire world of the Internet.
The new Fronius Datalogger Web offers three ways to display data: First is Fronius Solar.access, an expert tool for data evaluation and analysis onsite. Second the Website of Datalogger
Web provides a quick overview of essential system data. And third Fronius Solar.web: Data can be accessed worldwide via the Internet, e-mail, SMS and fax messages can also be used for
information and service purposes. This combination options offer comprehensive information while at the same time providing maximum comfort for every user. Fronius Datalogger Web,
Fronius Solar.access and Fronius Solar.web were all developed in parallel to each other. This has helped to ensure a uniform interface design providing the highest degree of
user-friendliness.
Fronius Solar.access: Archive data & current data at a glance
The use of existing infrastructures is another Fronius development advantage. For example, Fronius Datalogger Web can be linked to the Fronius Solar.access software via an existing LAN
network. Using this combination, all system data can be saved to the PC and managed and analyzed to the fullest. This version using a direct connection between Solar.access and the
Datalogger is well-suited for detailed, long-term data recording as well as for setting various software parameters for all system components. When combined with Fronius Datalogger Web,
Fronius Solar.access can also directly compare several systems.
Using a browser to connect to the Datalogger website via a LAN
Fronius Datalogger Web's own website provides a quick look at essential system data. The website - completely independent of the operating system - can be accessed by several users in a
local network simultaneously as well as provide real-time data for systems with up to 100 inverters. An existing LAN connection can also be used here and/or data can also be transmitted
via W-LAN to PDAs
(e.g. iPhones).
Fronius Solar.web: Accessing data via an Internet connection
If desired, Fronius Datalogger Web can send all data automatically to the Fronius Solar.web Internet platform. This makes archive data as well as current data available 24/7 via any PC
in the world with an Internet connection.
Along with both Fronius software tools, Datalogger Web is also compatible with the hardware components of Fronius DATCOM (Fronius Sensor Card / Box, Fronius Public Display Card / Box,
Fronius String Control,...). Fronius Datalogger Web has reached pre-production series status; both internal testing as well as field testing are ongoing. The knowledge gained from these
tests as well as other improvement suggestions will be implemented before the series start in June 2008. With this new product, Fronius has set yet another system monitoring milestone,
the company emphasizes.
2008-04-28 Courtesy: Fronius International GmbH Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Fronius International GmbH
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6N Silicon Secures up to Million in Financing Led by Good Energies
6N Silicon Inc. (Mississauga, Ontario), a supplier of true solar grade silicon for the photovoltaic industry, announced on March 31st 2008 that it has secured up to USD million
in second round financing. This investment round was led by Good Energies, a leading global investor in the renewable energy and energy efficiency industry. Both major investors from
the company’s first round of private financing, Ventures West Management and Yaletown Venture Partners, also participated, Good Energies reports in a press release. The investment
will be used by the company to move into commercial production of solar grade silicon. "6N Silicon’s goal is to be the lowest cost provider of solar grade silicon that does not
require blending with high-purity silicon. 6N Silicon’s primary differentiation is its unique process for upgrading standard metallurgical grade silicon into true solar grade
silicon", Good Energies emphasizes in its press release. With low capital equipment and production costs, the 6N process is intended to scale quickly and easily and to feature
dramatically lower input energy requirements than conventional silicon purification processes.
Global market for solar grade silicon feedstock projected to grow to .4 billion by 2010
"We are very excited that Good Energies, a proven investor in solar photovoltaics, has chosen to support our company", said Paolo Maccario, Chief Executive Officer of 6N Silicon. "Good
Energies conducted a considerable amount of due diligence on our company and our process. This investment, therefore, is a significant endorsement by one of the industry’s most
respected investors, and is an important step towards achieving our goal of becoming a leading supplier of solar grade silicon within the next three to five years. We also sincerely
appreciate the ongoing commitment from our initial investors and we look forward to leveraging their collective support to achieve our near-term goals." The global market for solar
grade silicon feedstock in 2006 due to Good Energies was approximately .3 billion and is projected to grow to .4 billion by 2010. In constant short supply, polysilicon is the
largest single cost component of most solar modules.
"Through its extensive pilot production line activities, 6N Silicon has begun to deliver on the tremendous promise of its technology to produce true solar grade silicon at a lower cost
and with lower environmental impact", said Richard Kauffman, CEO of Good Energies. "Good Energies has a long and successful track record of working with renewable energy and energy
efficiency companies and helping them to meet their full growth potential. We look forward to working with 6N Silicon’s management to help them achieve their goals and to
establish new customer relationships by leveraging our solar industry expertise and our international network with solar PV manufacturers."
2008-04-23 Courtesy: Good Energies Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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PG&E signs contracts with for up to 900 Megawatts of solar thermal power
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Visualisation of the BrightSource Pilot
project in the israeli Negev desert
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Pacific Gas and Electric Company (San Francisco; USA) announced in April 2008 that it has entered into a series of contracts with BrightSource Energy, Inc. for renewable solar power.
The first three contracts are for a total of 500 megawatts (MW) of power to be supplied from three solar thermal electric generating projects, PG&E reports in a press release.
PG&E also signed two contracts for options on an additional 400 MW of solar power, which would bring the total amount of power purchased under these five agreements to 900 MW. The
first of these solar power plants, sized at 100 MW in Ivanpah (California) could be operating as early as 2011 and is expected to produce 246,000 megawatt hours of renewable electricity
per year. BrightSource will build and place in commercial operation each of its plants as quickly as permitting and infrastructure allow. "Solar thermal energy is an
especially attractive renewable power source because it is available when needed most in California - during the peak mid-day summer period", said Fong Wan, vice president of energy
procurement at PG&E. "Through these agreements with BrightSource, we continue to broaden our renewable energy portfolio and provide our customers with some of the cleanest energy in
the nation."
BrightSource's goal is to substantially lower the cost and increase the use of solar energy throughout the Western United States. "PG&E is making this goal possible by committing to
power purchase agreements that will bring the benefit of carbon-free power to their customers", noted John Woolard, president and CEO of BrightSource in making this announcement.
"PG&E is demonstrating true leadership in bringing large scale solar power to California."
The contracts filed with the California Public Utilities Commission are part of PG&E's broader renewable energy portfolio. Since 2002, PG&E has entered into contracts for over
2,500 MW of renewable power. California law requires each investor-owned utility to increase the share of eligible renewable generating resources in its electric power portfolio to 20
percent by 2010. PG&E has made contractual commitments to have over 20 percent of its future deliveries from renewables. For 2008, PG&E expects to have 14 percent of its energy
delivered from renewable sources.
2008-04-23 Courtesy: Pacific Gas and Electric Co. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: BrightSource Energy, Inc.
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Inventux Receives High-tech Production Equipment for its Solar Factory
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C. Smith (left; Oerlikon) and
V. Löwenstein (Inventux). ).
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Inventux Technologies AG (Berlin; Germany), a solar company that specializes in the development, production and marketing of thin-film photovoltaic modules, has just received the
first equipment to produce innovative thin-film photovoltaic modules from its technology partner Oerlikon Solar. "Today, barely one year after the foundation of our company, we have
reached an important milestone", says Inventux’s Chairman of the Board, Volko Löwenstein. At the headquarters’ factory gate in Berlin’s district Marzahn,
Volko Löwenstein and Christopher Smith, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales & Customer Support of Oerlikon Solar, cut a yellow ribbon together in a symbolic act of the "tool
move-in"-ceremony. Besides the district council of economy, civil engineering, citizen services and public order, Christian Gräff, also representatives of capital providers and project
partners, as well as members of the Executive Board of the Swiss high-tech provider Oerlikon, participated.
Coating and laser structuring machines for micromorph thin-film photovoltaic modules
Employees of Inventux and Oerlikon will immediately start to install the production equipment. After successful testing and quality assurance phases, the first solar modules are planned
to be delivered just before the end of the year. By then, Inventux plans to invest more than 40 million Euros in the set-up and development of the solar factory. The equipment is
composed of large-sized coating and laser structuring machines for clean rooms where the novel micromorph thin-film photovoltaic modules will be produced. The technology used has been
applied to produce flat screens so far. It has been enhanced in order to make an industrial series of technological leading solar modules based on silicon possible.
"Our management team has long-time professional experience as well as technology and process competence. We will succeed in radically simplifying the production of photovoltaic modules
and in reducing the production costs of the modules. Thus, we will be able to sustainably cut costs to make solar power competitive to conventional energy”, states Volko
Löwenstein.
2008-04-21 Courtesy: Inventux Technologies AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Inventux Technologies AG
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SonnenEnergy completes Phase 1 of Solar Park Hausen ahead of schedule
SonnenEnergy Corp. (TORONTO) a Canadian photovoltaic solar power systems integrator and solar power producer, on March 27 th 2008 announced that it has completed the first phase of a
10-acre solar power park in Hausen (Germany) ahead of schedule. The Solar Park Hausen due to the company is the second solar park owned by SonnenEnergy, which also owns and operates an
11-acre solar park in Waldstetten, Germany ("Solar Park Waldstetten"). "With Phase 1 of Solar Park Hausen completed, it will produce 800,000 kWh of electricity annually and generate
revenue of approximately (euro)288,000," said Sudhir Morar, SonnenEnergy's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Construction continues on Phase 2 of the park, which is
expected to increase the capacity to 1,730 kWp. Upon completion of all phases of the project, we expect Solar Park Hausen to have total capacity of 2,500 kWp", Morar added.
"We are very pleased to have completed Phase 1 of Solar Park Hausen ahead of schedule," continued Mr. Morar. "This not only demonstrates our ability to quickly and efficiently build
solar parks but also allows us to accelerate development of the next phase of the project. The early completion of Phase 1 also insures that the park will be operational and generating
power during the spring and summer months, the peak period for solar power production." SonnenEnergy recently announced the expansion of its operations into North America and conducting
contract negotiations for a number of other projects, including solar parks.
2008-04-18 Courtesy: SonnenEnergy Corp. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SonnenEnergy Corp.
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SOLON sells large-scale solar power plants in Spain for € 87 million to financial investor Meinl International
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SOLON-Mover at Eco-Huerta de Cabanillas
(Spain).
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SOLON AG, headquartered in Berlin (Germany) and one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of solar modules and photovoltaic systems, has sold several large-scale solar power plants
in Spain to expand on the Company’s already strong position in the Spanish
Market, the company reports in a press release. The solar power plants were developed and implemented by SOLON Solar Investments GmbH (Freiburg, Germany), a SOLON subsidiary that
specializes in planning large-scale power plant projects for financial investors. The sale, which had a total volume of approx. € 87 million, was made to financial investor Meinl
International Power Ltd. This is already the seventh investment that Meinl International Power Ltd. has secured in the fields of conventional and renewable energy since going
public in the summer of 2007 and encompasses power plants at a total of four locations in the Spanish mainland and the Balearic Islands.
The power plants will produce enough energy per year to supply 5,000 households with electricity from renewable resources. Along with planning and implementing the photovoltaic power
plant, the Freiburg project specialists are also structuring the financing for the project via LRP Landesbank Rheinland-Pfalz (Mainz, Germany). For this purpose LRP concluded a
financing package with Meinl International Power, Ltd. and a project company. LRP is sole arranger of the financing. This represents the biggest project financing by LRP in Spain to
date.
2008-04-15 Courtesy: SOLON AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SOLON AG
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Photovoltaic Market Trends 2008: New Large-Scale Plants with an Output of over one Gigawatt connected to the grid
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20 MW solar PV plant at Beneixama (Spain).
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During the first 3 months of this year over 50 large-scale commercial photovoltaic plants were connected to electricity networks worldwide. This was reported by the independent
photovoltaics information portal pvresources.com in its quarterly report I/2008. The cumulative power of these new systems has already exceeded about 130 Megawatt (MWp). Other similar
plants with an output of 200 kWp or more are currently being tested. This is more than in the first quarter of last year and points to further growth in 2008, pvresources reports. The
average installed power output capacity of large-scale PV plants increased during the first three months of this year and amounts to more than 2 MWp per plant. At the end of the first
quarter of 2008 a total of over 300 Megawatt plants are in operation worldwide. Europe further expanded its market share (82 %), of which over 75 % of the overall capacity
are in operation in Germany and in Spain (plants with 200 kWp or more).
Spanish market shows further growth, Germany loses market share, progress in Italy
pvresources noted further extreme growth in Spain: the Spanish market share (currently 35%) was on the rise, German market share, however, was decreasing. Good progress was seen in
Italy: there the company Soluxia-Sorgenia completed numerous 1 MW plants in the last weeks (in Acate / Sicily, San Ferdinando and Vibo Valentia / Calabria, Molfetta / Apulia, as well as
in Marrubi on Sardinia).
New figures on solar power capacity of large-scale plants: in 2007 at least 470 MWp grid connected
Since reports on numerous plants that were already completed in December 2007 only became available in February 2008 or even later, the actual figures exceed those provided in the
Annual Report 2007 which pvresources.com and the portal www.solarserver.de jointly published in January 2008. Based on current surveys, large-scale plants with a solar power output of
at least 470 MWp went onto the network in the whole of 2007 (in the Annual Report the figure of 417 MWp is still given). This leads to a cumulative power output of 1.090 MWp for
installed commercial photovoltaic plants worldwide. In the Top50 List provided by pvresources it can be seen that over 10 new plants with a total output of 4 MWp or more were installed
in the first quarter.
90 % of large-scale PV plants in Germany, Spain and the USA
The cumulative installed output of large-scale commercial photovoltaics plants amounted to 459 MWp at the end of March 2008 in Germany, followed by Spain with 376 MWp and the USA with
151 MWp. Positions four to seven were held by Italy (24 MWp), Japan (17 MWp), South Korea (16 MWp) and the rest of the world (43 MWp).
For further information:
"Large photovoltaic power plants: average growth by almost 100 % since 2005"
2008-04-15 Courtesy: solarserver.de Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: City Solar AG
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IBERDROLA Ingeniería to build 20 MW solar photovoltaic plant in Cáceres
IBERDROLA Ingeniería y Construcción (IBERINCO) has won contracts for the second of two phases of a 20 MW solar photovoltaic plant in the Spanish province of Cáceres. The installation
on a 178-hectare site could be in operation as early as September of this year, the company reports in a press release. The project, called "Abertura FV", was awarded by Aliwin Plus to
the engineering unit of Spain’s IBERDROLA utility group, that has also begun work on the first phase, a 10 MW installation on ad area of almost 100 hectares. The second
phase spans for another 10 MW via 100 panels producing 114.7 peak kilowatts (kWp) each, on an area of some 80 hectares. The contracts help IBERDROLA Ingeniería to consolidate its
position in the renewable energies industry, in which last year it due to own data won new contracts from non-group clients worth €223.5 million. Among these contracts was one to
build the Talayuela plant, also in Cáceres, a 10 MW solar photovoltaic plant on a site of more than 60 hectares. In the Spanish province of Soria the company is to build a similar,
11.65 MW plant, and will late build a 4 MW plant on a 12-hectare site in the province of Toledo.
2008-04-15 Courtesy: IBERINCO Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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German Government advocates the import of solar electricity from deserts
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Concentrating Solar Thermal Power Plant
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The German government supports efforts to import electricity from concentrating solar thermal power plants in the countries of North Africa and the Middle East (MENA). This was
confirmed by Michael Mueller, Parliamentary Secretary of State in the Federal Ministry of Environment, in an official response to a question by Green Party Member of Parliament
Hans-Josef Fell on March 27th, 2008. The expansion of renewable energies, in particular the solar electricity generation in the MENA countries and to transmit it throughout Europe,
North Africa and the Middle East, such as the "DESERTEC" proposal suggests, is in the Pan-European interest, says State Secretary Mueller. It is anticipated that specific
cooperation procedures and activities will be identified at the Head of States conference of EU member states and the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea on July 13th 2008 in
Paris. Also the French government plans to raise the issue of solar power from the desert at the conference.
The DESERTEC Concept "Clean Power from Deserts" from The CLUB OF ROME is a comprehensive proposal on energy, water and environment security in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.
It involves the construction of facilities for the use of wind energy and Concentrating Solar Thermal Power (CSP) in desert regions. The use of heat storage, e. g. in tanks of molten
salt, means that electricity can be generated during both the day and the night. The electricity will be transmitted to European customers via low-loss long-distance high-voltage DC
transmission.
High priority for renewable energies around the Mediterranean
As part of the "Barcelona Process: Union for the Mediterranean", the German Federal Ministry of the Environment (BMU) sees an opportunity to support challenging regional projects for
the use of renewable energy sources in the Mediterranean region and to provide significant funding for such projects via the “European Neighborhood Policy” (ENP).
Cooperation in the area of renewable energy, energy efficiency and the expansion of existing energy networks have been identified as top priorities in Paris. The German Government
intends that electricity from renewable sources in North Africa that is consumed in the EU will count towards the EU target that 20% of all energy used in the EU should come from
renewable sources by 2020.
Forum "10,000 Solar GigaWatts" at the HANOVER FAIR
A French Solar Plan for the Mediterranean Union will be presented at the Forum 10,000 Solar GigaWatts, on April 23th and 24th at the HANOVER FAIR. At the same conference, a
representative of the Italian Embassy will describe an Italian-German project to build electricity connections with North Africa, and a speaker from Abu Dhabi will report about the
Masdar solar project. Well-known companies of the CSP industry will discuss the technical feasibility of a global supply of solar power from deserts as the DESERTEC Concept proposes. A
representative of the HSH Nordbank (the third largest investor in renewable sources of energy) will speak about "Financial Resources and Investment Security".
2008-04-14 Courtesy: Source: http.//www.solarserver.de - Portal site for solar energy Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solar Millennium AG
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1st European Solar Days to be celebrated on May 16th and 17th with more than 4,000 events in over 10 European countries
As an awareness raising campaign, the European Solar Days aim to promote the use of the sun as an energy source for all solar applications, Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic, throughout
Europe. The predecessor called "Tag der Sonne" was first celebrated in Austria in 2002, and the idea has already been taken up by Switzerland and Germany where, in the case of Germany a
whole week is now dedicated to this campaign. It is now time to bring the Solar Days to Europe - with Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain,
Slovenia and Switzerland ready to go in 2008, the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) and the European Solar Thermal Industry Federation (ESTIF) emphasize in a joint press
release. The European Solar Days will reach thousands of European citizens throughout Europe with its networking approach. Events can be held by anyone interested in
promoting solar energy. Solar companies can arrange to hold an open day, schools can hold educational activities, cities and communes can hold information days. These are only some
examples of activities and events which will help to raise the awareness of solar energy.
Solar energy installations from Spain to Sweden
Solar energy is one of the most accessible and affordable sources of renewable energy available to ordinary citizens and can be used on any house or office building. And this is not
only true for southern countries such as Spain and Portugal. Solar energy installations can also be found in northern countries such as Norway and Sweden, where there is an ever growing
number of installations. Other countries are expected to join the initiative in 2009 which is planned to be extended throughout Europe in the future. The European Solar Days will bring
together major players from the solar thermal and solar photovoltaic electricity sectors throughout Europe and will help in promoting the use of renewable energy. The European Solar
Days, which are coordinated by ESTIF in close cooperation with EPIA, are supported by 25 organisations at a national and European level.
Comprehensive information on the European Solar Days is available at: http://www.solardays.eu
2008-04-14 Courtesy: ESTIF; EPIA Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Xantrex receives order valued approximately US$ 16 million from German PV company Relatio
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solar grid-tie inverter GT500.
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Xantrex Technology Inc. (Vancouver) on April 10th 2008
reported an order valued at approximately US$ 16 million from relatio PV GmbH & Co.KG (Balingen, Germany). The order is for Xantrex’s three phase solar grid-tie inverters for
several projects in Spain and Germany. The solar inverters will be installed in Relatio’s so called iBox, an innovative turnkey solution that integrates the inverter, transformer,
and switch gear into a sturdy outdoor enclosure. The iBox enables easy installation at project sites, and quick connection to the solar panels and the utility grid. Delivery of the
Xantrex GT100E and GT500E units is scheduled to take place in the second and third quarters of 2008. "We are pleased to be partnered with Relatio to provide our European
customers with easy to install commercial solar inverter systems", said Bernd Kohlstruck, Xantrex VP Wind and European Solar Business. "The size of the order is a reflection of
Xantrex’s growing market share and its relationship with Relatio", he added.
Maximum Power Point Tracking raises solar yield
Gangolf Gindele, Head of Engineering & Project Management at Relatio PV, stated. "We selected the Xantrex inverter because it has proven to be the best product for our turn-key iBox
solution and a perfect solution for solar market requirements in Europe." The Xantrex GT100E and GT500E commercial grid-tie solar inverters efficiently convert direct current (DC) power
from solar modules into high-quality alternating current (AC) electricity for delivery to the grid. Easy to install and operate, these commercial grid-tie inverters have automatic start
up and shut down features with Maximum Power Point Tracking technology to optimize the energy harvested from the photovoltaic (PV) array. To maximize power conversion efficiency, the
switching circuitry for these inverters uses insulated gate bi-polar transistors (IGBT). Multiple inverters can be paralleled for large power installations. These solar inverters meet
all applicable CE requirements, Xantrex emphasizes.
2008-04-11 Courtesy: Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Xantrex Technology Inc.
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Solar Impulse becomes a symbol of the European Commission
Solar Impulse, the Swiss solar-powered aeroplane project, was presented on April 9th 2008 to the European Parliament in Brussels within the framework of the "Towards a more
sustainable aviation" seminar organised by Mrs. Christine de Veyrac, a Member of the European Parliament. The Vice-President of the European Commission with responsibility for
Transport, Mr. Jacques Barrot, publicly announced the European Commission’s patronage of the Solar Impulse project, in the presence of Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg,
President and CEO of Solar Impulse respectively. In a world dependent on fossil fuels, the Solar Impulse project is a wake-up call to industry to take up the challenge of
clean mobility. The aim is to harness the power of the sun to propel an aeroplane, day and night by solar power around the world without fuel or polluting emissions. A goal that is
inaccessible unless we push back the boundaries of today’s technologies in all relevant fields.
Conveying renewable energies as an opportunity that should not pass by
For the European Commission, Solar Impulse is an example of what industry and energy policy makers should be doing to foster energy efficiency and clean mobility. For Solar Impulse, the
patronage of the European Commission serves as recognition of its action in favour of renewable energies. "A world without the aeroplane is unimaginable. But we still do not have a
blueprint for the aeroplane of the future, an environmentally-friendly aeroplane. Taking today’s technologies and materials to their limits and beyond to accelerate the emergence
of tomorrow’s technologies is the challenge embodied by the Solar Impulse project", declared the Vice-President Jacques Barrot. "It is an example that should be followed by all
players within society, a symbol of what we should be aspiring to!"
"I admire those who have the political courage to force our society to extract itself from its dependency on fossil fuels. By becoming a symbol of Europe’s commitment to clean
mobility, Solar Impulse undertakes to do its bit to convey renewable energies as an opportunity that should not pass us by", confirmed Bertrand Piccard, the project’s founder and
president.
"The only way of being able to fly only on solar energy is to save as much energy as possible and to exploit the available resources to a maximum", explained André Borschberg, CEO and
pilot of the project. "The research carried out within the framework of the Solar Impulse already shows that we can save impressive quantities of energy. In this sense, the project has
been invaluable in triggering developments that will come about in areas other than aviation."
"Fighting against climate change by dissuading people from air travel is absurd: what we need to do is reconcile mobility and respect for the environment, which is the very essence of
the Solar Impulse project", underlined Mrs Christine de Veyrac. "This project should not only spawn technological advances due to the innovations necessary for its success, but also
raise awareness among Europeans of the need to respect the environment and put the spotlight on the problem of depleting energy resources."
Test flights scheduled to start in early 2009
The first Solar Impulse prototype plane, the HB-SIA is currently being built in Dübendorf, close to Zurich. It will have a wingspan of 61 metres and weigh in at 1,500 kg. The test
flights are scheduled to start in early 2009. The Solar Impulse project is supported among others by the Solvay group, by Omega and by the Deutsche Bank, its main partners. The Ecole
Polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is its official scientific partner, Altran its engineering partner and Dassault-Aviation its consultant aircraft manufacturer.
For additional information: http://www.solarimpulse.com
2008-04-09 Courtesy: Solar Impulse Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SolarImpulse, EPFL, artist Claudio Leonardi
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Xantrex receives order for 3,000 solar inverters from new customer in Spain
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Xantrex-solar inverter GT 3.0E.
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Xantrex Technology, Inc. on April 1st 2008 announced that it has received a significant order from the new customer Nuevas Energias del Sureste S.A. for 3000 GT3.8 kilowatt (kW)
grid-tie solar inverters. The Xantrex solar inverters will be installed at three sites in Spain: a four and three megawatt (MW) photovoltaic power station in the region of Alhama and a
three MW site in the region of Murcia, for a total of 10 MW. The delivery of the Xantrex GT3.8 kW grid tie solar inverters is to take place over the next six months. "We are
delighted to be chosen by Nuevas Energias to provide our GT3.8 kW solar inverters for these installations", said Mossadiq S. Umedaly, Xantrex Chairman. "The size of the order is a
reflection of Xantrex’s strengthening position in the European solar market", Umedaly empasized.
Xantrex GT Series Solar Inverters convert direct current (DC) power from solar panels into high-quality alternating current (AC) power for the electricity grid. The GT Series Solar
Inverters range from 2.5 kW to 5.0 kW, offering system integrators and installers the ability to better meet the capacity requirements of a broad spectrum of solar system sizes.
"Xantrex grid-tie inverters have become the inverters of choice for a growing number of solar system installers and their customers, offering a solution with excellent value,
performance, reliability, ease of installation, and high power density", the company highlights in a press release.
Xantrex CEO John Wallace stated, "We are committed to growing Xantrex’s European solar market share by supplying our customers with the most efficient, reliable, and cost
effective inverters in the solar industry. We look forward to working with the team at Nuevas Energias to build a successful partnership."
2008-04-08 Courtesy: Xantrex Technology S.L Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Xantrex Technology Inc.
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PV producer SOLON AG confirms figures for fiscal 2007: Group revenue rose by 45%
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Solon PV panels at the office of the German
Federal President in Berlin.
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Berlin-based SOLON AG für Solartechnik on April 7th 2008 presented its complete annual report for fiscal 2007, confirming the preliminary figures published in February. In the
recently ended fiscal year, Group revenue due to the company rose 45% to Euro 503.1 million (2006: Euro 346.4 million). Total operating performance increased by 30% to Euro 514.7
million (2006: Euro 396.4 million). The distribution of revenue by segment was nearly unchanged from the prior year: 61% of revenue was generated by the photovoltaic Components segment
and 39% by PV System Technology. The proportion of revenue realized in Germany dropped to 33%, while the foreign share rose to 67% (2006: 60%). The gross profit increased to Euro 106.8
million (2006: Euro 82.6 million). The ratio of the gross profit to total operating performance remained constant at 21%. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and
amortization (EBITDA) climbed 40% to Euro 43.3 million (2006: Euro 30.9 million). Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) were Euro 35.2 million, representing a 42% rise from the
prior year (2006: Euro 24.8 million). Included in the EBIT are expenses in the amount of Euro 4 million resulting from the discounting of long-term prepayments for solar cells in the
fourth quarter. The ratio of these earnings figures to Group revenue remained constant at 9% (EBITDA) and 7% (EBIT).
Net income after minority interests amounted to Euro 37.5 million. This figure includes special effects totaling Euro 16.2 million. The special effects resulted from the sales,
contributions, and write-downs of investments and the repayment of the 2005/2010 convertible bond. Excluding these special effects, net income after minority interests amounted to Euro
21.3 million in 2007 (2006: Euro 14.4 million) while adjusted earnings per share were Euro 2.07 (2006: Euro 1.56). This corresponds to a 48% improvement in earnings from the prior year
and a 33% increase in adjusted earnings per share.
More than 700 employees in the Group
The strong growth of the SOLON Group in the past fiscal year is also reflected in the higher number of employees. At year-end 2007, the SOLON Group had a total of 703 employees, nearly
half working for the Group's foreign operations. The ratio of personnel expenses to total operating performance remained constant at 5%.
SOLON continues expansion: production capacities to be expanded to 500 MWp
The SOLON Group currently has five production facilities for solar modules and systems in four countries (Germany, Austria, Italy, and the USA). Production capacities at these
facilities were expanded from 130 to 210 MWp in the course of the past year. With production output of 118 MWp (2006: 84 MWp), SOLON was once again one of the largest European
manufacturers of solar modules and solar system technology in 2007. In order to firmly establish itself in the extremely dynamic international market environment for the long term,
SOLON is committed to continuing its focus on growth. To this end, Group-wide production capacities will be expanded to 500 MWp in the current year as announced earlier. The majority of
the expansion will take place in the second half of the year. This means that the SOLON Group will have access to an average production capacity of 250 MWp in 2008. The most pronounced
expansion will take place at the facilities in Greifswald, Germany, and Carmignano di Brenta, Italy, where annual capacities will be increased to 200 and 150 MWp, respectively. The
expansion of all production facilities is progressing according to plan. The capacity expansion is being financed with the proceeds from the capital measures implemented in the past
fiscal year.
Outlook for the current fiscal year
When publishing its annual report for 2007, SOLON also reconfirmed its projections for the current fiscal year. The company plans to increase its production volume to 200 MWp and
intends to improve revenue and adjusted net earnings by approximately 75%. In 2009, SOLON expects to achieve additional strong growth in revenue and earnings of about 50%. The complete
annual report 2007 of SOLON AG is available for download on the company's website.
2008-04-07 Courtesy: SOLON AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SOLON AG
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Oerlikon Solar outperforms in photovoltaic thin-film market
Oerlikon Solar (Trübbach, Sitzerland) one of the pioneering suppliers of thin-film silicon PV solutions is rapidly expanding its global footprint, the company reports in a press
release. With multiple customers already in commercial production, several more in the ramp up phase and over 300'000 solar modules manufactured, Oerlikon is continuing its strong
performance in the fast-growing thin film PV equipment market. In terms of experience and technology the company is a leader in the turnkey thin-film silicon PV market.
"Oerlikon Solar is committed to fulfilling our customers needs and maintaining our position as the leading provider of proven turnkey thin film manufacturing solutions. Our capacity
expansion and our global reach will enable us to serve our customers in the dynamic and fast-growing market environment. We will also continue to recruit highly skilled individuals to
join our solar team." states Jeannine Sargent, CEO Oerlikon Solar.
More than CHF 700 million sales revenues expected in 2008
The solar industry has developed into one of the fastest growing global energy markets. As a provider of proven thin-film PV silicon solar solutions, Oerlikon Solar is playing a major
role in driving the growth in this market segment. The company's sales due to own figures have surpassed the ambitious targets announced when the Oerlikon Solar business was
established, with over CHF 300 million in sales in 2007, and a forecast for more than CHF 700 million in 2008, as world energy markets increasingly turn to clean solar energy to meet
growing energy demands.
Doubling of production capacity in Trübbach (Switzerland) announced
The creation of a solar segment within the Oerlikon Group in late 2007, established the organizational environment to meet the vast demands of the rapidly growing solar market. With the
solar industry representing a multibillion CHF business opportunity, the company felt it vital to expand its current solar operations and investments worldwide. A new Asian Hub in
Singapore will open within the second half of 2008 and help Oerlikon Solar boost its presence and proximity to customers in Asia, while continuing to expand production, development and
support for its leading thin-film silicon solar energy solutions. Oerlikon Solar announced doubling of its production capacity at its plant in Truebbach (Switzerland) and has
established a full pilot line as an integral part of its R&D and process module development unit. This new pilot line allows Oerlikon to accelerate R&D and train customer
engineers under real world environment.
Micromorph Tandem - the next generation of PV
Oerlikon Solar launched its new Micromorph Tandem solar cell solution in September 2007. This latest stage of development has significantly higher efficiencies than its amorphous
predecessor and will have a double digit conversion rate by 2010, extending the technology advantage even more, Oerlikon Solar announces. "Micromorph Tandem is an important element for
reducing the production costs of solar energy and to reach grid parity in the short term. This makes the environmentally friendly technology an economical alternative to conventional
means of energy production. The clear goal is to achieve grid parity by 2010", Oerlikon Solar emphasizes in the press release.
2008-04-07 Courtesy: Oerlikon Solar Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Oerlikon Solar
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Archimedes Solar: Starting signal for photovoltaic solar energy with profile
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ARCHIMEDES IVT and ARCHIMEDES IPT at
the proving grounds "Widderstall".
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The concentrating photovoltaic technology utilized by the Archimedes Systems was developed and patented by engineer Fritz Klotz during many years of work at the Center for Solar
Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Wuerttemberg (ZSW, Stuttgart, Germany). Archimedes Solar’s business interests are managed by lawyer Stefan Dameron, whose past experience
includes the implementation of ecologically sustainable projects. Sales are managed by Peter Dussl, who has been intensively involved in the field of renewable energy and solar systems
since 2002. The key idea behind the simplicity and cost reductions achieved by the ARCHIMEDES solar systems is the integration of cost-efficient, mass-produceable aluminium extrusion
profiles in all functional areas (PV module panels, cooling, reflector mirrors, supporting structure). The company developed the ARCHIMEDES 10X IPT and ARCHIMEDES 2X V-Trough
PV concentrator systems as well as a building-integrated BIPV photovoltaic system.
Higher yields, lower costs
System voltages due to the producer of up to 1000 volts can be realized using the extreme lightweight ARCHIMEDES photovoltaic tracking platform. The system is also designed to withstand
wind speeds of up to 150 km/h, making it ideal for windy areas, ARCHIMEDES emphasizes. In comparison to the standard rectangular form, the triangular shape enables substantial
reductions in material requirements. As a result of the aluminum construction, the area-specific weight is minimized to a remarkable 10 kg/m², compared to around 30kg/m² for
conventional PV systems. This ensures lower costs during assembly, as well as in transportation. In consequence of the triangle design an assembly will be possible even in challenging
areas, for instance on rocky mountain slopes. Thus costs for the preparation of ground may be reduced and areas not utilizable for energy production can be tapped.
Two- to tenfold concentration, tracking and passive cooling of solar cells
The PV system ARCHIMEDES IVT concentrates sunlight two times using lateral flat mirrors and thus even collects a big part of diffuse radiation. ARCHIMEDES IVT is operating with high
reflection mirrors, a precise single axis tracking as well as passive cooling to produce cost efficient solar electricity.
ARCHIMEDES IPT was developed based on work at the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Wuerttemberg. The Thermohydraulic solar tracker with coupled parabolic trogh fins
concentrates solar radiation tenfold. A structured module base made of extruded aluminium allows passive cooling of solar cells, the reflector carrier provides a bracket for the solar
cells.
2008-04-07 Courtesy: Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ARCHIMEDES Solar GmbH
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aleo solar AG supplies PV modules worth over EUR 35 million to Europe’s sunniest countries
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aleo solar's panel production.
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German aleo solar AG (Oldenburg/Prenzlau) on April 3rd 3008 announced that it continues to expand its market position in Europe. Customers from Germany, Spain, Italy and Greece have
ordered additional aleo modules worth more than EUR 35 million for the current year, the company reports in a press release. Together with the contracts previously reported, the current
contract volume of aleo solar AG for the year 2008 amounts to over EUR 150 million. While German and Spanish customers for a long time have played a part in aleo solar’s strong
revenue growth, Italy and Greece are now becoming increasingly important markets. "Italy and Greece are developing into two significant pillars of our foreign business", said
Jakobus Smit, CEO of aleo solar AG. In January, aleo solar expanded its presence in Italy with the establishment of aleo solar Italia S.r.l., and there has been an aleo solar sales team
in Greece since 2007. "We are striving for widespread coverage of Europe’s core markets", Smit added.
Production capacity to be nearly doubled in 2008
This growth is possible because production capacity at aleo solar’s Prenzlau site will nearly double. Heiner Willers, a member of the Management Board of aleo solar AG, said,
“Construction is in full swing and we are right on target. By the end of 2008, the Group will have a total production capacity of 180 megawatts.” In addition to expanding
its production plant, aleo solar is building a logistics centre with an automatic warehouse which will directly supply specialist dealers and installers.
2008-04-03 Courtesy: aleo solar AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: aleo solar AG
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iSuppli establishes PV services and acquires German market research company
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iSuppli acquires photovoltaic market research
company WTC.
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Amid 0-per-barrel oil, rising instability in petroleum-producing regions and mounting concerns over the environmental impact of fossil fuels, renewable energy- particularly solar
-has emerged as a critical technology of the 21st century. The international market research company iSuppli reports in a press release. "Technology companies around the world now are
focusing on the solar/photovoltaic segment, bringing to bear their expertise in diverse areas such as wafer processing, cell manufacturing and complex systems integration", said Derek
Lidow, president and chief executive officer of iSuppli Corp. "Those companies that can successfully identify and capitalize on the technologies, products and regions that will dominate
the future of the photovoltaic market stand to benefit enormously. To help the industry understand the fast-changing world of solar systems, iSuppli is launching its Photovoltaic
service, which will provide unique essential data and analysis including complete input/output models." To establish the Photovoltaic service, iSuppli has acquired Munich, Germany-based
Wicht Technologie Consulting (WTC), a leading provider of market intelligence on photovoltaics, Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS), sensors and nanotechnology.
"We established WTC in 2000 with the goal of providing companies with the market analysis, business development and strategic planning support they need to compete in the fields of
photovoltaic, MEMS and sensors research", said Dr. Henning Wicht, chief executive and founder of WTC. "WTC has been able to help numerous companies to realize the potential of
photovoltaic technology. Now, we’re pleased to bring our data and analysis and match that to iSuppli’s global brand and extensive geographic footprint."
iSuppli’s Photovoltaic service, which will commence in the second quarter, will consist of three separate offerings:
· Photovoltaic Raw Materials, which will provide market intelligence on areas including wafer production and supply of glass and other raw materials.
· Cell and Module Production, which will examine the markets for various types of solar cells, including thin-film cells and modules.
·Photovoltaic Systems, which will research products and technologies including converters, concentrators and rotating systems.
"All segments of the photovoltaic market are growing rapidly", said Lloyd Kaplan, chief operating officer at iSuppli. "To compete, companies must make and manage major investments in
technology, capacity and systems. iSuppli’s Photovoltaic service will increase the value to many existing iSuppli clients already participating in the markets segment. We also
look forward to introducing the many WTC global clients to iSuppli’s and WTC’s combined expertise and research methodology."
2008-04-03 Courtesy: iSuppli Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: WTC
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Nitol Solar and Suntech expand polysilicon supply agreement
Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. one of the world’s leading manufacturers of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules, and Nitol Solar Ltd., an independent polysilicon producer, on
April 1st 2008 announced an expansion to the terms of their existing seven-year polysilicon supply agreement which runs from 2009 to 2015. Under the expanded agreement, Nitol has agreed
to substantially increase the aggregate committed volumes to be supplied between 2009 and 2015. Suntech recently announced a strategic investment whereby Suntech will acquire newly
issued ordinary shares comprising a minority interest in Nitol Solar for a total consideration of up to 0 million, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. Suntech has
already paid the first million installment of this investment to Nitol Solar. The proceeds from this transaction will enable Nitol Solar to advance the development of its new 3,700
metric ton polysilicon plant based near Irkutsk, Russia which is expected to be completed in 2009. The new facility will utilize advanced polysilicon production equipment and
the mature Siemens production technique with advanced recycling process to ensure the clean and safe manufacture of purified polysilicon.
Favorably priced silicon to accelerate the path to grid parity
"The expansion of our supply relationship with Nitol Solar further improves our long term silicon outlook and provides a robust base to rapidly grow our business. With Suntech’s
financial strength from the recent capital raising and plans for rapid capacity expansion, we will continue to build relationships with silicon producers that increase our long term
cost visibility. We believe that this favorably priced silicon will accelerate our path to grid parity and we are confident that this will drive enormous demand for solar power systems
regardless of the subsidy environment. We look forward to solar power becoming an increasingly important part of the global energy mix and meaningfully reducing carbon emissions and the
dependence on fossil fuels."
Dmitry Kotenko, Chief Executive Officer of Nitol Solar said: Suntech is a highly valued partner and our cornerstone customer, and we are pleased to expand our role as one of their key
suppliers. This is another important step in our strategic relationship and we look forward to continuing to build our collaboration. Now that we have a strong order backlog and a
diverse customer base, we are concentrating on ramping our first phase polysilicon plant and initiating the production of high-quality polysilicon as soon as possible."
2008-04-03 Courtesy: Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Southern California Edison launches largest solar panel installation in the U.S., that will convert 65 million square feet of unused roofs into solar generating stations
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Edison chairman Bryson: solar generating
stations on two square miles of unused roofs.
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Southern California Edison (SCE; Rosemead, Calif.) on March 27th, 2008 launched the nation’s largest solar cell installation, a project that will place 250 megawatts of
advanced photovoltaic generating technology on 65 million square feet of roofs of Southern California commercial buildings - enough power to serve approximately 162,000 homes. "These
are the kinds of big ideas we need to meet California’s long-term energy and climate change goals", said Governor Schwarzenegger. "I urge others to follow in their footsteps. If
commercial buildings statewide partnered with utilities to put this solar technology on their rooftops, it would set off a huge wave of renewable energy growth."
Advances in solar technology reduced the cost of installed photovoltaic generation
"This project will turn two square miles of unused commercial rooftops into advanced solar generating stations", said John E. Bryson, Edison International chairman and CEO. "We hope to
have the first solar rooftops in service by August. The sunlight power will be available to meet our largest challenge - peak load demands on the hottest days." SCE’s renewable
energy project was prompted by recent advances in solar technology that reduce the cost of installed photovoltaic generation. When combined with the size of SCE’s investment, the
resulting costs per unit are projected to be half that of common photovoltaic installations in California.
One megawatt additional solar electric power each week
"The scale of this project is unprecedented", said Mike Peevey, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) president. "It clearly illustrates once again Edison’s leadership
position in the development of new renewable technology." SCE on March 27th, 2008 asked the CPUC for approval to install the solar cell technology during the next five years. The
request estimates the total project cost will be 5 million (in today’s dollars). The utility plans to begin installation work immediately on commercial roofs in Southern
California’s Inland Empire, San Bernardino and Riverside counties, the nation’s fastest growing urban region. "These new solar stations, which we will be installing at a
rate of one megawatt a week, will provide a new source of clean energy, directly in the fast-growing regions where we need it most", said Bryson.
SCE sees numerous customer benefits from its new solar program, among them locating the new generation in areas of growing customer demand. And the clusters of solar modules SCE plans
to install will be connected directly to the nearest neighborhood circuit, eliminating the need to build new transmission lines to bring the power to customers. Additionally, solar
units produce the most power when customer usage is at its highest.
SCE believes its commercial solar roofs program will boost several California environmental initiatives, especially the Million Solar Roofs program that provides incentives to encourage
Californians to install solar projects by 2017. SCE’s solar program supports the state’s Global Warming Solutions Act requiring the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to
1990 levels by 2020, as well as California’s renewable portfolio standard requiring that 20 percent of the state’s electricity be generated with renewable energy by 2010.
2008-04-02 Courtesy: Southern California Edison Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SCE
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Solar Millennium AG acquires shares of the Andasol 3 project from NEO Energía
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Parabolic trough power plant Andasol 1.
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On March 28th 2008 Solar Millennium (Erlangen; Germany) has acquired a 50 percent share of the project company Marquesado Solar S.L. from NEO Energía, a subsidiary of Energias de
Portugal S.A. (EDP). It has been agreed by the parties that details of the acquisition contract remain confidential, Solar Millennium reports in a press release. Following the
acquisition of the shares, Solar Millennium will be accelerating the realization of its related Andasol 3 project. The technology for Andasol 3 is to be provided by the Solar Millennium
subsidiary Flagsol GmbH in Cologne. The Solar Millennium group is to be, besides others, in charge of building the power plant, an unprecedented undertaking by the group to date.
Confirmation of project financing is expected shortly from the banks, with construction due to start in May 2008. Another major investor is to take the place of NEO Energía as project
partner in the Andasol 3 project.
Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada in Andalusia in southern Spain, Andasol 3 is the third parabolic trough power plant to be developed by Solar Millennium. This location is
ideally suited for solar thermal power plants, Solar Millennium emphasizes. Construction of the sister projects Andasol 1 and 2 is already underway. Andasol 1, Europe's first parabolic
trough power plant, is to be connected to the grid in summer 2008. Andasol 2 will also begin operation at the start of 2009. With a collector surface area of 510,000 square meters each,
equal to the area of 70 football fields, these are the world's largest solar power plants. The 300 million euro projects each have a gross annual output of around 180 gigawatt hours of
electricity, supplying up to 200,000 people. With the use of thermal storage the power plants are also able to provide dependable electricity supplies after the sun has set.
Christian Beltle, chairman of the Solar Millennium board, is very pleased: "We will begin realizing the Andasol 3 solar power plant project shortly, thereby remaining within our
forecasts for the current fiscal year. With Andasol 3, in addition to providing the project development and the technology, the Solar Millennium group will also be taking on
responsibility for power plant construction for the first time. We are therefore consistently pursuing our growth strategy".
2008-04-01 Courtesy: Solar Millennium AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solar Millennium AG
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