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Act Solar, Inc., SolarTech and Santa Clara University awarded Energy Commission funding
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Solar electric system at Santa Clara University.
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Silicon Valley-based Act Solar, Inc. (Santa Clara, California) on January 22nd, 2009 announced that it had been awarded a 750,000 US-Dollar research grant from the California Energy
Commission’s Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program. The grant supports energy research, development and demonstration projects. Act Solar, the Santa Clara University and
SolarTech (San Jose, California), a Silicon Valley Leadership Group initiative focusing on tangible solutions to advance the solar industry, plan to deploy several photovoltaic (PV)
arrays. "To date, most R&D grants have focused on lowering the upfront costs of materials, components and labor. While these efforts are critical, the most powerful
contributors to lowering generation costs per kilowatt-hour lie in improving and assuring power output over the life of the array", said Andrew Foss, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
Act Solar. "Even with today’s relatively high material and panel costs coming down, the solar industry will only reach grid parity through improved system performance in optimized
and managed PV arrays. We applaud the Energy Commission for their vision in enabling Act Solar to continue the vital work that we’re doing to help drive solar energy costs
down."
Power management system to optimize solar module performance
As the lead technology recipient of this grant, Act Solar will deploy its patent-pending PowerString technology with active power management in several of SolarTech’s commercial
demonstration sites, enabling these arrays to run at peak performance for many decades, the press release emphasizes. "Our intelligently managed approach to PV operations allows a solar
array to deliver assured peak performance for many decades, a quantum leap in output performance", added Foss. SolarTech is a non-profit industry-driven organization focused on creating
a Solar Center of Excellence in Silicon Valley with the goal to identify, prioritize, and resolve the complex technological, administrative, and financing challenges inherent in the
delivery of solar PV systems today. PIER annually awards up to million to conduct public interest energy research by partnering with organizations including individuals, businesses,
utilities, and public or private research institutions.
2009-01-29 Courtesy: Act Solar, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Santa Clara University
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Photovoltaics: Grundfos Pumps and SunPower dedicate 1.1 megawatt solar power system
Grundfos Pumps Corporation (Fresno, California) and SunPower Corporation (Sunnyvale, California) on January 22nd, 2009 announced the dedication of a 1.1 megawatt (MW) solar electric
system (PV) at the Grundfos facility in Fresno. The system features ground-mounted, high-efficiency SunPower sun tracking systems on a 7.5-acre site, SunPower reports in a press
release. SunPower designed and installed a system that utilizes SunPower's solar panels combined with the SunPower "Tracker" system. It follows the sun’s movement during the day
and increases sunlight capture by up to 25 percent compared to conventional fixed-tilt systems, SunPower emphasizes. In addition the solar tracker reduces land use requirements.
The Grundfos solar power plant is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions generated at the facility by almost 2.4 million pounds annually, which is the equivalent to removing
close to 200 cars from California’s highways each year.
solar power system to reduce costs while improving the quality of the environment
"Grundfos is committed to improving our business practices and reducing our environmental impact", said David Mortensen, senior vice president of finance and quality manager for
Grundfos. "This high-efficiency SunPower solar power system will help us significantly reduce costs while improving the quality of the environment for our employees and the greater
Fresno community." Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin said: "Improving our region’s air quality is a primary goal in Fresno. I am very pleased that Grundfos, as a major employer and
business leader in our city for more than 30 years, has chosen a high-efficiency solar power system to maximize the amount of clean, emission- free solar power generated at their
facility.
With a power purchase agreement the solar power system requires no upfront capital expenditure
As an alternative to outright purchase of the solar power system, Grundfos financed the project through financier Morgan Stanley under a power purchase agreement (PPA) program.
According to this agreement, Grundfos will purchase the electricity from Morgan Stanleywhich will own and operate the system. As a result, Grundfos will benefit from immediate savings
and a long-term hedge against rising peak power prices. Grundfos owns the renewable energy credits associated with the system. "Today, leaders like Grundfos understand the value of
solar power technology to significantly reduce both operational costs and the levels of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere", said Tom Werner, chief executive officer (CEO) of SunPower.
"With a PPA, these systems require no upfront capital expenditure, and are a great hedge against rising electricity rates. With high-efficiency SunPower technology, Grundfos is assured
that the system is maximizing the amount of clean, renewable power generated for their facility."
2009-01-29 Courtesy: SunPower Corp. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Green light for aleo power schools
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aleo COO Willers plans to include schools
in a solar network.
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aleo solar AG (Oldenburg, Prenzlau, Germany) on January 23rd, 2009 announced the launch of its "aleo power schools" network as part of its sponsoring drive. The project is intended
to bring the important topic of sustainable energy supply into selected partner schools in the next few years. In the innovation challenge "Young ideas for the future," 22 students from
Prenzlau's Christa-und-Peter-Scherpf-Gymnasium came up with answers to the following question: "What will Prenzlau and Brandenburg's energy supply look like in the future? And how do we
fit into this scenario?" aleo solar AG is sponsoring the "future workshop" with Prenzlau's public utilities also supporting the innovation challenge. The results were presented at a
closing ceremony attended by politicians, businesses, parents and other students.
The ideas developed by the children include a filling station system for electric cars running on solar power, a coil for generating energy by using photovoltaics and wind power, and a
module that generates solar power and heat simultaneously. "It is impressive to see the imaginative solutions that the students have developed in the space of a single week", commented
Dr. Heleman Krause, deputy mayor of Prenzlau. "This should encourage us in our efforts to promote forward-looking energy supply strategies."
Support in the form of a real photovoltaic system
In the opinion of Heiner Willers, COO of aleo solar AG, the innovation challenge was a promising start for the aleo power schools: "We give the schools in our network tangible support
in the form of a real photovoltaics unit, complemented by materials for experimenting and teaching. We also want to network the participating secondary schools via their climate and
environment working groups, bringing together schools in Lower Saxony and Brandenburg. Sustainable learning needs to be rich in materials, ideas and public commitment." Further schools
plan to join the network during the coming year.
2009-01-29 Courtesy: aleo solar AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: aleo solar AG
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ersol Thin Film expands its PV product range with innovative "Nova-T plus" thin-film module
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Present mounting system (left) and new
mounting possibility for Nova-T plus (right).
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ersol Thin Film GmbH, a subsidiary of ersol Solar Energy AG (ersol), Erfurt, is launching a new thin-film module at the beginning of this year, which has a front panel made of
toughened glass. The "Nova-T plus" module will therefore offer significantly greater mechanical stability. This will lead to lower system and assembly costs and a wider range of
applications, including in conventional mounting systems, the producer emphasizes. The Nova-T plus is an enhancement of the amorphous thin-film module, Nova-T. Due to the use
of tempered glass the new modules can absorb greater compressive loads and are thus better protected against climatic influences, such as wind or snow. Their stronger mechanical
stability also makes the panels easier to install. Whereas conventional thin-film modules have to be fixed to the support structure with two long clamps and a middle rail, the Nova-T
plus only requires four shorter, single clamps, ersol reports.
For PV plant operators this reduces assembly time significantly, and enables a saving of up to 25 percent on material costs for the support structure. Moreover, it is now possible to
use standard commercial mounting systems with 4-clamp systems for crystalline solar modules. "Whether it's an open-space or a roof installation: with its high load-bearing capacity,
lower system costs and extended range of applications, the Nova-T plus sets new benchmarks for our customers", says Peter Schneidewind, Managing Director of ersol Thin Film GmbH,
summarising the benefits of the new ersol thin-film module.
2009-01-28 Courtesy: ersol Thin Film GmbH Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ersol Thin Film GmbH
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SANYO and Nippon Oil Corporation to establish joint thin-film solar cell company
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Solar Ark at the SANYO production facility
in Anpachi.
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SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (Osaka, Japan) and Nippon Oil Corporation (Tokyo, Japan) on January 23rd, 2009 announced that they decided to launch a joint company for the production and
sale of thin-film solar panels, to be named SANYO ENEOS Solar Co., Ltd. According to the press release, SANYO plans to draw on its solar cell technologies as well as its extensive
research performed over the last thirty years related to thin-film solar cell technologies for this project. Nippon Oil Corporation intends to utilize its raw materials technologies,
such as from petroleum production and the relationships it has established with oil-producing countries in the Middle East and elsewhere, which the companies expect to become major
markets for photovoltaic (PV) systems in the future. The new joint company will integrate the strengths of the two parent companies and aims to become a leading global
company in the production of thin-film solar modules, SANYO and Nippon Oil emphasize in the press release. With the growing awareness of climate change, realizing a low-carbon society
is becoming a common global challenge, SANYO states.
Initial production scale of 80 MW scheduled for the fiscal year 2010
The United States have put forward a new proactive policy and a movement to actively introduce clean solar energy as a resource. Among all types of solar products, thin-film solar
panels are able to achieve lower costs for large-scale power generation systems with a market that the two companies expect to rapidly expand in the future. The new joint company is
scheduled to start production and sales at an initial scale of 80 megawatts (MW) in fiscal year 2010 and gradually increase its production capacity while reviewing and considering the
market needs. The goals for the future scope of business are one gigawatt (GW) for annual global production and sales by FY 2015 and around two GW for the annual global production and
sales of thin-film solar by FY 2020.
2009-01-27 Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
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Solar thermal: Solarnor introduces a new solar collector
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Flat in Oslo with solar
collectors by Solarnor.
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The Norwegian company Solarnor, which provides solar heating systems and controllers, has designed a solar heating system with the objective to offer solar energy at competitive
conditions relative to conventional energy sources. The Solarnor collector is a standard building element which can substitute for usual roof- or facade cover materials, the company
emphasizes. By its own account the modular structure opens for flexible adaptions to various architectural solutions. Solarnor aims to offer architecturally appealing
surfaces with the added value of being an energy supplier to the building or construction. In properly designed solar heating systems each square meter of collector area due to the
producer delivers between 250-700 kWh per year, which is dependent on location.
Drain back system for domestic hot water and radiant floor heating
The drain-back solar thermal system is operating automatically by means of a pump controller. In periods without possibility for solar harvesting, the controller stops the circulation
and the liquid in the collectors is draining within few minutes, Solarnor reports. Due to high flexibility, the Solarnor system can be used in different scales, from small tap-water
systems for private houses to large industrial or institutional systems with hundreds or thousands of square-meters of collector area. According to Solarnor the preferable application
for one family house is combined solar heating systems for domestic hot water (DHW) and radiant floor heating systems. A comparably low price makes the Solarnor collector attractive for
using in large applications like hotels, hospitals, sport arenas and commercial or industrial buildings.
2009-01-26 Courtesy: Solarnor AS Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solarnor AS
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Beck Energy: 20 solar power plants constructed in 2008
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Beck Energy solar power plant in Kolitzheim,
Germany (1,775 MW).
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With a total of 20 turnkey photovoltaic solar power plants constructed in Europe in 2008, Beck Energy GmbH is setting a new benchmark in the supply and production of
environmental-friendly energy, the German company reports in a press release. With 20 projects, the pioneer of ground-based solar power plants not only made a substantial contribution
to avoid emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2). Once more Beck Energy has demonstrated further developments of solar power plants. The application of the proven products
manufactured by First Solar Inc. (thin-film modules) and SMA Solar Technology AG (inverters) has been supplemented by the first use of the utility inverter PADCON AMC 1600.
This inverter enables a direct output into the 20 kV grid-level and achieves a power output of 1,600kVA, compliant to the new German BDEW guidelines.
Major PV projects in France, Spain and Germany
Amongst others the major projects in 2008 included France’s largest photovoltaic solar power plant in Narbonne (7 MWp), constructed for EDF EN (Électricité de France Energies
Nouvelles), and Spain’s largest thin-film solar power plant in Darro (5.9 MWp), which was set up with the cooperation partner Assyce Fotovoltaica S. L.. Also the Beck Energy solar
power plant in Eckolstädt / Germany (8.9 MWp) was built in 2008. Beck Energy’s proprietary development in the areas of planning , plant engineering and construction, as
furthermore the reliability of the module manufacturer First Solar Inc. made it possible to build up the solar power plant in Eckolstädt within finally three months.
"This level of performance was only achieved thanks to reliable manufacturers such as First Solar Inc. and SMA Solar Technology AG. During times of economic and financial insecurity
professionalism and reliability are more important than ever, to enable investors, who demand a high level of safety awareness concerning investments, to engage into
environmental-friendly energy production", emphasises Managing Director Bernhard Beck.
2009-01-26 Courtesy: Beck Energy GmbH Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Beck Energy GmbH
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Stanford University launches 0 million initiative to tackle energy issues
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Jane Woodward (left) focused on
royalty interests from natural gas
and renewable energy.
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Recognizing that energy is at the heart of many of the world's tribulations - economic, environmental and political - Stanford is establishing a 0 million research institute to
focus intently on energy issues, President John Hennessy told a capacity crowd on January 12th, 2009. According to a press release the 0 million in new funds will enable the hiring
of additional faculty and support new graduate students, in addition to the more than million in yearly funding now spent on energy research. The new Precourt Institute for Energy
will draw on deep scientific expertise from across the campus and around the world. From the minuscule-materials scientists prying loose more electricity from sunshine through more
efficient photovoltaic cells to the national effort to develop sustainable energy and the global search for ways to reduce atmospheric levels of carbon, the new institute will be at the
forefront, Stanford University emphasizes in the press release.
Lowering the cost of converting sunlight into electricity and supplying it through a much improved electric grid
"The biggest renewable resource is the sun", said Lynn Orr, who has been named overall director of the new institute, which will function as an independent laboratory reporting to the
dean of research. "But we need to lower the cost of converting sunlight into electricity and supplying it through a much improved electric grid. The new center will allow us to expand
significantly our effort to develop new nanostructured materials for solar energy and energy storage and to work on the host of social, market and policy issues involved in the needed
transition to energy systems with significant fractions of renewables."
Solar cells printed from an ink-jet printer
Jane Woodward, president of MAP, a private firm focused on royalty interests from natural gas and renewable energy, and consulting professor at Stanford, noted during an energy
discussion that student interest in energy courses has skyrocketed. Sally Benson, director of the Global Climate & Energy Project at Stanford University, argued that "there is no
shortage of energy resources on Earth." What's needed she said, is clean technology to exploit those resources, such as solar cells that can be printed from an ink-jet printer.
Addressing the challenge of energy
"Universities such as Stanford need to focus their full talent on the greatest challenges facing the world today", Stanford’s President John Hennessy said before the ceremony.
"Energy is certainly one of those issues, posing a threat to our economy, to national security and, through the use of fossil fuels, to our environment. Addressing the challenge of
energy will require research on a wide range of issues, from energy efficiency to development and deployment of renewable sources, to reducing the effect of fossil fuels."
2009-01-24 Courtesy: Stanford University Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Stanford University
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Castle & Cooke and SunPower dedicate Hawaii’s largest solar power system
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SunPower single axis Solar-Tracker.
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Castle & Cooke Hawaii (Mililani, Hawaii) and SunPower Corporation (San Jose, California), a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, on
January 06th, 2009 dedicated a 1.2-megawatt (MW) solar farm on the island of Lanai in Hawaii. The new solar farm, dubbed "La Ola", which translates from Hawaiian to "sun that gives
life", is located on a 10-acre site in south Lanai and is expected to produce enough clean, renewable solar power to supply up to 30 percent of the island’s peak electric demand.
The system is expected to generate about 3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year. According to the press release, the power will be purchased by Maui Electric Company
(MECO; Honolulu, Hawaii), and transmitted to Lanai’s homes and businesses through MECO’s electric power grid. The system will thereby help to reduce more than
2,300 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in Lanai each year, which is approximately the same amount of carbon dioxide emitted from the consumption of almost 5,000 barrels of oil or more
than 237,000 gallons of gasoline.
La Ola solar farm equipped with system that tracks the sun’s path through the sky
"Castle & Cooke is committed to helping the state of Hawaii achieve energy independence", said David H. Murdock, chairman and owner of Castle & Cooke, Inc. "With this dedication
of Hawaii’s largest solar farm, we are delivering on our commitment by bringing clean solar energy to the people of Lanai. This state-of-the-art solar farm helps pave the way for
Hawaii to become a leader in the production of renewable energy. La Ola is just the first step of Castle & Cooke's plans for renewable, sustainable energy", Murdock concluded. At
the La Ola site, SunPower installed its single-axis SunPower Tracker systems. They tilt toward the sun as it moves across the sky, increasing energy capture by up to 25 percent over
fixed systems according to the manufacturer, while also reducing land-use requirements. "Clean, reliable solar power will become a core energy investment over the next decade, driven in
large part by visionary leaders such as Castle & Cooke, MECO and the State of Hawaii", said Tom Werner, chief executive officer (CEO) of SunPower. "Having installed the first
commercially-financed solar power system in the US on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1998, followed by more than six megawatts of solar power systems across the Hawaiian islands since that
time, we are pleased to dedicate this very significant project on the island of Lanai."
2009-01-23 Courtesy: SunPower Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SunPower Corporation
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Moser Baer’s thin film line ready for production of ultra-large solar modules
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SunFab Technology Centre of Applied
Materials.
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The global technology company Moser Baer (New Delhi, India) on January 21st, 2009 announced that its photovoltaic subsidiary is ready for production of thin film photovoltaic modules
at its manufacturing plant in Greater Noida. This follows final acceptance test (FAT) certification of Moser Baer Photovoltaic’s "SunFab"-thin film line supplied by Applied
Materials, Inc., the California-based nanomanufacturing technology solutions provider. The certification verifies that the SunFab line has met all manufacturing, module efficiency and
yield specifications. "This is a major milestone for both Moser Baer and Applied Materials representing the start of production of thin film modules by Moser Baer, which was
Applied’s first SunFab customer", Applied Materials emphasizes in its press release. The 40MW capacity line is the largest thin film solar line in India. This single
junction SunFab line due to the producer has demonstrated the highest production capacity to date for manufacturing the world’s largest (2.2m x 2.6m) solar modules.
To bring the solar energy dream to fruition
Commenting on the development, Deepak Puri, the Chairman and Managing Director of Moser Baer, said: "Moser Baer is pursuing a differentiated strategy in the high growth photovoltaic
business and launching production of the SunFab thin film solar module line is of great significance in our effort to bring the solar energy dream to fruition. The thin film line will
help us significantly scale up our manufacturing capacity and supply thin film solar modules to our customers. The close relationship we have with Applied has enabled us to quickly ramp
up our Greater Noida facility." Mike Splinter, Applied Materials’ Chief Executive Officer, added: "We are very pleased to have achieved this key customer sign-off for our thin
film production line, the first SunFab line in India. We are especially grateful to Moser Baer, our first SunFab customer, for its commitment to our approach in driving down the cost of
solar electricity using 5.7m2 substrates."
Proven technology from the semiconductor and LCD industries
The Applied SunFab Thin Film Line is a fully-integrated PV module production line that delivers leading-edge solar manufacturing capability using advanced engineering, process
equipment, automation and other key supporting technologies. PV modules produced by Applied’s SunFab line have been certified by the International Electrotechnical Commission
(IEC), verifying that they meet stringent performance and safety specifications under challenging environmental conditions. "This important collaboration established the first advanced
thin film solar facility in India that builds on Applied’s proven technology from the semiconductor and LCD industries", said Dr. Rajiv Arya, CEO, Moser Baer Photovoltaic. "Using
our manufacturing expertise and Applied’s advanced SunFab solar technology, we will provide the innovative PV products that can significantly reduce electric power and utility
costs and provide a cost-effective option for clean and renewable energy."
"We are excited to see how rapidly this factory achieved 40MW capacity production with high yields - a tribute to great teamwork between the companies", said Dr. Randhir Thakur, senior
vice president and general manager, SunFab Thin Film Solar and Display Business Group at Applied Materials. "We attribute much of our success in this project to the strong presence we
have had in India for more than five years, during which time we have built a solid support infrastructure with the capability to implement complex advanced projects on schedule."
2009-01-22 Courtesy: Moser Baer India Ltd.; Applied Materials Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Applied Materials Inc.
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Concentrating photovoltaics: OPEL International and BETASOL to install 440 kW solar farm in Spain
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"Mk-I" HCPV panel by OPEL International.
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OPEL International Inc. (Toronto, Canada), a developer and supplier of high concentration photovoltaics (HCPV) and other solar products, on January 14th, 2009 announced that it had
begun supplying HCPV panels to build a solar power plant with a capacity of 440 kilowatts (kW) under an agreement with the Spanish company BETASOL. When connected to the grid the HCPV
system is expected to supply cost effective and energy efficient power to cover the demand of more than 500 households, OPEL announces. BETASOL is a Spanish company involved in building
utility grade solar farm installations and their subsequent sale to investor groups. The new solar farms are a collection of HCPV panels mounted on trackers that convert solar energy
into electricity. According to the press release, shipments of OPEL International’s panels for the installation had begun in December 2008, and the project is scheduled to be
completed in the first quarter of 2009. "This deployment of 440 kW of HCPV panels is one of the first significant installations in the HCPV marketplace and is an important
milestone for OPEL", said Robert Pico, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OPEL International "We are excited about our new and expanding relationship with our partner, BETASOL, and look
forward to reporting on our progress with this leading solar technology in the near future."
Concentrating sunlight more than 500 times
"We at BETASOL are very pleased to be in partnership with OPEL, one of the leading HCPV suppliers in the world. OPEL’s greatly improved panel efficiency allows attractive rates of
returns on our Spanish solar projects", said Jesus Cabetas, managing director of BETASOL. OPEL International is supplying this project with its original design Mk-I high concentration
panels to be mounted on a tracker systems. These panels are a highly cost effective solution and complement the recently-announced changes in Spain’s feed-in tariff structure,
OPEL emphasizes. The deployment of OPEL’s energy efficient panels is expected to result in a favorable operating return for the project. "Mk-I HCPV panel design uses cost
effective materials and concentrates light from the sun more than 500 times", Robert Pico points out. The company plans to work with additional Spanish partners on solar farm field
projects in Spain in 2009.
2009-01-22 Courtesy: OPEL International Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: OPEL International Inc.
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Greece: New PV law passed in January 2009: feed-in-tariff remains unchanged for the next two years
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PV plant by Phoenix Solar (944 kWp) near
Thessaloniki.
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A new feed-in-tariff (FIT) regime was introduced in Greece on January 15th, 2009, the Hellenic Association of Photovoltaic Companies (HELAPCO) reports. Due to HELAPCO FITs will
remain unchanged for the next two years. There will be a regression of FITs as of Aug. 2010. However, it is possible to sign a grid connection agreement thus locking the FIT before this
deadline, and then to get another 18 months to finalize installation. "This practically means that FITs remain unchanged till early 2012", HELAPCO emphasizes. FIT for solar
electricity produced on the Greek mainland amounts 0,45 Euro/kW (systems < 100 kWp) and 0,40 Euro/kW (systems >100 kWP). For PV systems on the Greek islands 0,50 Euro/kW (systems
< 100 kWp) or 0,45 Euro/kW (systems >100 kWP) are granted.
Applications for more than 3 GWp filed
Applications for permits already filed (due to HELAPCO more than 3 GWp) will be served until the end of 2009. Regime for newcomers is still unknown (no more applications are accepted at
the moment). Until then, a newcomer has the option of acquiring an existing company which has a permit.
40% grant on top of the new FITs for most of the systems with a minimum investment of 100,000 €
A 40% grant will still be valid on top of the new FITs for most of the systems (minimum investment eligible for grant = 100,000 €), HELAPCO announced. A separate program for
rooftop PV will be introduced later in 2009, aiming at 750 extra MWp (timeframe for this target is still unknown). Rooftop systems will receive a higher tariff for 20 years but no
grant. The new law also introduced a tender process for PV systems >10 MWp. Details on how this will work are expected later this year.
2009-01-21 Courtesy: HELAPCO Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Phönix Solar AG
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ThinkSolar completes 650 kW solar array in Hawthorne, California
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Lithographix’s PV rooftop system at
Hawthorne.
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US National integrator, ThinkSolar, in cooperation with solar contractor Pacific Solar Energy, has completed one of California’s largest commercial roof-mounted photovoltaic
(PV) systems. The 650 kW turnkey solar array for Lithographix is the first commercial array in the City of Hawthorne. "I’m proud to announce the completion of this beautiful solar
plant", says ThinkSolar CEO Elmar Niewerth. "The expert installation by Pacific Solar Energy and professional teamwork among manufacturers allowed us to deliver a state of the art PV
array in time and on budget." The rooftop installation at Lithographix’s 250,000 square foot facility near Los Angeles International Airport, features Schott ASE300 solar panels,
selected for their durability and double glass encapsulation, Solectria inverters and a custom-designed UniRac ballast racking system. The array, commissioned on December
15th , is already performing up to standard and is expected to offset Lithographix’s energy demand by 30 %.
Lithographix President Herb Zebrack remarked, "We are very pleased with the efficient installation, impressive results and our decision to go solar." Lithographix is one of the
nation’s premier commercial, retail and grand format printers. The array is the largest deployment of solar power of any U.S. commercial printer. ThinkSolar is a wholesale product
distributor and project integrator based in Oakland, California. As a subsidiary of SolarMarkt AG, founded in Freiburg, Germany in 1985, ThinkSolar provides wholesale solar products,
engineering expertise, market analysis and large-scale project management.
2009-01-21 Courtesy: ThinkSolar; SolarMarkt AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SolarMarkt AG
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Isofotón to set up 1,215 grid-connected photovoltaic installations in Morocco
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PV system by Isofoton in Algeria.
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After a public tender, Isofotón, a company that is leader in the photovoltaic sector in Spain, has been awarded the contract to set up 1,215 photovoltaic installations that will be
integrated into the grid in the cities of Errachidia and Ben Guerir in Morocco, Isofoton reports in a press release. This pilot project, called Chourouk ONE, is set within the framework
of an initiative by Morocco’s National Electricity Company (Office National d’Électricité; ONE) to develop solar PV systems in urban areas and has the financial support of
Spain. The funding was agreed by the Spanish Council of Ministers through a FAD loan. Isofotón will be responsible for the supply and installation of photovoltaic systems of between 500
and 1,000 kWp, ultimately installing a total power of 724,000 kWp. The Spanish company will install 1,000 systems in the city of Errachidia, 200 systems in the city of Ben
Guerir and another 15 systems in ONE agencies in the following provinces: Agadir, Ben Slimane, El Kelaa des Sraghnas, Errachidia, Essaouira, Guemim, Khemisset, Laayoune, Ouarzazate,
Rommani, Oujda, Settat, Ouled Nemaa, Tata and Tiznit.
Pioneering PV initiative in the north of Africa
"This is a pioneering initiative in the north of Africa, and will include an innovative element by bringing together the electricity operator, private individuals and the
supplier-installer in a scheme of public-private partnership", Isofotón emphasizes in its press release. Through this project, private individuals who install photovoltaic systems in
their homes will be able to deduct a part of the photovoltaic energy production from their electricity bill as the material used is the property of ONE that rents the available space on
the roof.
200,000 PV systems in total scheduled
In total, the ONE program plans 200,000 systems integrated into the grid system, as well as the creation of three solar power plants of 100, 10 and 3MW. The first 1215 systems will be
set up by Isofotón, the company that also installed the first pilot project of integration into the grid system in Morocco, on the roof of the Regional Directorate of ONE in
Casablanca.
2009-01-20 Courtesy: Isofotón S.A. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Isofoton
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Sunways AG: New polysilicon production facility at LDK Solar commissioned
LDK Solar, Chinese wafer manufacturer and project partner for the construction and start up of a polysilicon production plant of German photovoltaic company Sunways AG (Constance),
has started silicon production, Sunways reports in a press release. First polysilicon depositions have been successfully demonstrated. The fine tuning of the production process will
occur in the course of the ramp-up phase to further improve the quality of the solar silicon manufactured. Thus, LDK’s delivery of polycrystalline silicon wafers for
Sunways’ solar cell production will start during the next few weeks as expected, the German PV producer emphasizes. Within the framework of the 10-year supply contract entered
into with LDK Solar in 2007, delivery volumes will increase progressively. Together with the supplies from other raw material contracts, it is expected that Sunways’ production
capacities will be fully supplied by fall 2009. Sunways intends purchase additional raw materials required over the months to come via the spot market. In the spot market,
the volume of high-quality solar silicon offered at attractive prices has increased considerably during the past weeks, Sunways points out.
Based on the long-term supply of raw materials now initiated and the related lasting cost reductions, Sunways AG plans to further accelerate its corporate growth and to sustainably
improve its profit situation from 2009 onwards.
2009-01-20 Courtesy: Sunways AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Sunways AG
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India: Tata Power to explore installing geothermal and solar power plants in the state of Gujarat
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Tata's -solar production in India.
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Tata Power Company Limited (Mumbai, India), India’s largest integrated private power company, on January 12th, 2009 announced that it had signed Memoranda of Understanding
(MoU) with the government of the western Indian state of Gujarat (Gandhinagar, India). The company agrees to explore the possibility of setting up a 5 megawatt (MW) geothermal power
plant at a suitable location and to develop a 5 MW solar power plant in Gujarat. "We are happy about this strategic partnership with the government of Gujarat. This partnership not only
strengthens our renewable portfolio but also creates opportunities to expand our presence in the growing renewable energy market in India. We look forward to the synergistic
opportunities that the alliance presents us", said Prasad Menon, managing director of Tata Power. Geothermal energy is the natural heat found within the earth, where
temperature increases with depth, typically by 10-50 degree Celsius/km. In Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) technology, heat is extracted from granites located at a depth of more than
4000 meters by circulating water through them in an engineered artificial reservoir. The heated water returns to the surface under pressure and is converted into electricity via a heat
exchanger and conventional geothermal power plant.
Growth plans include expansion of Indian solar joint-venture with BP Solar
According to its press release, Tata Power’s presence in solar includes a joint-venture with BP Solar, one of the largest solar companies in the world. Tata BP Solar India Ltd. On
own account is a market leader in solar photovoltaic technology in India with a turnover of 66.000.000 rupee (approximately 13,4 Million US-Dollar / 10,2 Million EUR). Nearly 75 % of
its sales come from exports, largely to Europe and the USA. Its growth plans include expansion of its module manufacturing facility and thrust on domestic sales. Tata Power installed a
generation capacity of over 2,300 MW and is present in all segments of the power sector including thermal, hydro, solar and wind, the company emphasizes.
2009-01-20 Courtesy: Tata Power Company Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Power Company Limited
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Masdar constructs first grid-connected photovoltaic plant in the MENA region
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Computer simulation of
Masdar City.
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Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multi faceted alternative energy initiative, on January 15th, 2009 announced that construction of the first and largest grid-connected solar photovoltaic
plant in the Middle East and North Africa region is underway. The solar power plant will initially generate clean electricity to support the ongoing construction activities of Masdar
City and later will be the power provider for the Masdar Institute, which opens in late 2009. The state-of-the-art PV plant will also supply smart clean energy to the Masdar Site
Administration Facilities. Excess energy generated will be supplied to the Abu Dhabi grid providing Abu Dhabi consumers with their first experience of alternative
energy.
17,500 MWh solar electricity each year 15,000 tons of annual CO2 savings
The 10 MW plant, consisting of 50 % thin film and 50 % crystalline, is projected to generate 17,500 MWh of clean energy each year with 15,000 tons of annual CO2 savings. A single kWh of
green energy is the carbon-offset equivalent of 0.8 kg depending on an area’s network and its energy-producing source. Following the complete installation of all 87,777 thin film
and photo crystalline silicon panels, the plant will be grid connected. The plant was designed and installed by Abu Dhabi based solar power system integrator Enviromena Power
Systems.
Global partnerships and knowledge transfer
"This 10 MW plant signals a bold step forward in the drive to increase the adoption of alternative energy in the region. It provides the foundation on which the construction of Masdar
City will be built, and demonstrates the viability and attractiveness for further PV plants to be built within the region", said Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar. “More
importantly, our drive towards encouraging local companies to form global partnerships and initiate knowledge transfer is an integral component to delivering on the Abu Dhabi Plan 2030
set by our leadership."
"One of the most cost-efficient PV installations in the world"
With a construction cost of 185 million UAE Dirhams (M USD) and an installed power capacity of 10 MWp, the plant will be considered one of the most cost-efficient PV installation in
the world in terms of its projected power output. Enviromena CEO & President, Sami Khoreibi summarized "When designing this plant for Masdar, we focused on using world-class
components, whilst using locally based contractors. In alignment with Masdar’s goals, this cost efficient system will further promote the implementation of solar technology both
in the region and beyond. As a locally based company, we appreciate the opportunity awarded us by Masdar and their confidence in our abilities."
The Masdar Initiative is Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted investment in the development and commercialization of innovative technologies in renewable, alternative and sustainable
energies as well as sustainable design. Masdar is driven by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (ADFEC), a wholly owned company of the government of Abu Dhabi through the Mubadala
Development Company. In January 2008, Abu Dhabi announced it will invest billion in Masdar, the largest single government investment of its kind.
2009-01-20 Courtesy: Masdar Initiative Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Masdar Initiative
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Solar modules from Applied Materials’ "SunFab"-line awarded IEC certification
Applied Materials, Inc. (Santa Clara, California) on January 15th, 2009 announced that both the single and tandem junction solar photovoltaic (PV) modules produced by its
"SunFab"-thin film line have met the stringent requirements of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards 61646 and 61730, certifying that these panels will meet
performance and safety specifications under challenging environmental conditions. The certification enables Applied’s SunFab-line customers to accelerate the IEC process,
dramatically reducing time-to-market for their higher-value, fully certified modules. "IEC certification is recognized around the world as the gold standard for solar PV", said Dr.
Randhir Thakur, senior vice president and general manager of Applied Materials’ SunFab thin film solar and display business group. "Achieving this milestone demonstrates
our commitment to enabling our customers’ success and validates the performance of our single and tandem junction technologies and integrated production line processes." To be
awarded certification, the IEC standards subject PV modules to a series of harsh tests designed to simulate years of exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, wind and precipitation -
factors that can impact long-term reliability. The IEC 61646 standard for thin film modules tests environmental conditions and power output, while the IEC 61730 standard mandates
additional electrical and environmental testing to provide assurance of safe operation of a module throughout its expected lifetime.
5.7m2 substrates processed
The rigorous testing and certification of the SunFab modules was conducted by TÜV Saarland of Germany, and covers both single junction and higher-efficiency tandem junction modules in
what is currently the most commonly installed size (1.1m x 1.3m). Module manufacturers can produce four panels of this size from each 5.7m2 substrate processed by the SunFab line to
achieve high production and cost efficiencies. Certification of full size 5.7m2 modules, which are ideally suited for utility-scale applications, is expected in the first half of
2009.
The revolutionary Applied SunFab Thin Film Line, announced in 2007, can be configured with single or tandem junction technology. The line is designed to rapidly deploy solar
manufacturing capacity and achieve the lowest production cost per watt. Applied is currently ramping customer factories around the globe, with six customers already producing
panels.
2009-01-19 Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc.
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USA: SEPA releases study on solar electricity in the utility market
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SEPA report "Solar Electricity in the Utility
Market".
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The american Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) headquartered in Washington, DC, has released a new report, the utility procurement study: "Solar Electricity in the Utility
Market", the first in a series of research reports to be released in 2009. This report, which is aimed at improving large scale solar acquisition by electric utilities, provides
innovative ideas for future project procurement, the organization reports in a press release. In 2008, over 5,000 megawatts (MW) of new photovoltaic and concentrating solar power
projects were announced, and with the 8-year extension of the federal investment tax credit (ITC), the market is expected to grow significantly. Along with the tax credit
extension, the revised ITC also allows electric utilities to utilize the credit for the first time, by both owning and/or investing in solar projects, potentially creating a critical
source of new projects and capital financing during the current economic downturn.
Federal stimulus package for renewable energy
The effect of the ITC extension-combined with the expansion of global solar manufacturing, rapidly declining costs and price curves, and federal and state environmental policies lays a
foundation for utility solar innovation at unparalleled scales. In addition, the potential effect of the new administration's stimulus package with an emphasis on renewable energy is
anticipated to be very dramatic as well, SEPA emphasizes in the press release.
Improvements during early stages of project planning
"The past year was marked by an unprecedented number of announcements for new large-scale solar power projects", said Julia Hamm, SEPA's executive director. "A significant investment of
time and resources by both utilities and solar companies goes into a solar project's initial development. Current practices and procedures such as requests for proposals, negotiations
and contracting occur behind the scenes, but are critical to the overall success of new solar generation. This report targets improvements during these early stages of project planning
by identifying areas of common expectations and understanding between the two industries."
Innovative procurement ideas
According to the press release the new research report is based on the results of two studies. One conducted to explore traditional methods for the procurement of large-scale solar
electricity by the utility market and a parallel study to explore innovative methods of solar acquisition. The first part of the report dissects the traditional procurement process,
which involves the release of a standard request for proposals (RFP) by utilities, to which solar project developers respond. Responses are then internally scored and selected by
utility staff and, after negotiations are completed, a contract with a specific company emerges. The second part of the report looks at innovative procurement ideas, ranging from
aggregation of purchasing power by utilities to interactive auctions where pricing response could be more dynamic than a single bid process.
New ideas for utilities that look outside the box
SEPA's Director of Research and Education, Mike Taylor, explains: "Some of these innovative ideas have been tried, and the report details their successes and drawbacks. Other practices
that are examined may have been used in solar acquisition, but perhaps not at the utility scale, or not in power plant development directly. The report provides new ideas to utilities
that might be willing to look outside the box as they engage with these exciting and rapidly developing companies and technologies."
The annual series of research reports is one of SEPA's many educational programs which bridge electric utilities, solar companies, and other stakeholders to push solar forward more
tangibly, one real business at a time while making solar practical and profitable in today's shifting energy landscape, the organization reports in the press release.
The full 117-page report is available for download at
Fall in price caused by changes to feed-in tariffs in coincidence with production capacity
The company's prospects for the coming year are also favourable. "Many module vendors will soon no longer be able to afford their own costly sales and distribution structure. With our
streamlined structures and customer advisors in all important regions, we offer clear advantages in this respect", Schachinger explains. Competition is tougher because module prices are
falling. This fall in price has been caused by a change to the German and Spanish feed-in tariffs which has coincided with the rapid increase in global photovoltaic production
capacity.
In 2008, the pvXchange on own account procured solar modules with an output of around 100 megawatts. With its international network and complementary services, pvXchange is constantly
developing its position in the renewable energy market, a market which continues to grow on a global scale. As well as in Europe, pvXchange also has a presence in Asia and the
USA.
Public limited company founded for expansion
In 2009 pvXchange is realigning its corporate structure. pvXchange international N.V. was established on December 16th, 2008. In the future, the public limited company with registered
office in Maastricht, Netherlands, will combine all the business areas of the solar technology experts. pvXchange GmbH will continue to operate the international solar trading platform.
"Limited company status offers us increased financial and operational scope. Under the umbrella of the holding company, we will in the future be able to pursue further areas of
business, give investors and employees a stake in the company and be listed on the capital market", Kai Malkwitz, CEO of pvXchange GmbH, explains the reasons behind the company's
restructuring.
2009-01-15 Courtesy: pvXchange GmbH Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: pvXchange GmbH
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Photovoltaics: Advanced Solar Photonics to build new thin-film module production plant
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ASP headquarters in Lake Mary, Florida.
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Advanced Solar Photonics, (ASP; Lake Mary, Florida), a developer of laser marking, scribing, edge deletion and edge isolation systems for the solar industry, on January 8th, 2009
announced in a press release that it had expanded to a 318,000 sq ft facility to build a thin-film (PV) solar panel production plant. This plant, dubbed SolarFabT, is scheduled to break
ground in 2009 and to ramp up production to 40 megawatts (MW) by late 2010. Due to ASP the facility will have the ability to continue to increase in capacity. The new production plant
is expected to create about 200 green jobs in Florida. SolarFabT will help develop ASP’s thin-film "SunPanelsT" which will be scalable and may be able to reach grid parity by
2011, ASP emphasizes. SolarFabT endeavors to have the first solar panel production site in the state of Florida, according to the press release.
Lowering manufacturing costs by utilizing proven technology
"We understand manufacturing and building equipment, it's what we’ve done for the last decade. We have been studying this industry for a long time and are now ready to offer a
complete solution that will achieve grid parity and help revolutionize the photovoltaic market", said Edgardo Rodriguez, vice president of sales for ASP. The company strives to keep
manufacturing costs low by utilizing proven patented technology geared to improve and lower the cost per kilowatt in thin-film panels.
2009-01-15 Courtesy: Advanced Solar Photonics Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ASP
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SunEdison announces large distributed generation solar program with Developers Diversified Realty
Solar energy services provider SunEdison LLC (Beltsville, Maryland), on January 7th, 2009 announced a large program for distributed solar electricity generation with Developers
Diversified Realty (Cleveland, Ohio), a real estate investment trust (REIT) engaged in the development and management of shopping centers. According to the agreement SunEdison will have
the right to deploy solar photovoltaic systems at more than 200 shopping centers, covering up to an estimated 30 million square feet, located in 24 US states and in Puerto Rico,
SunEdison reports in a press release. Potential total capacity of the program is up to 259 megawatts (MW), the company emphasizes. Once a system is operational, Developers Diversified
will be able to purchase energy for common area uses. In addition, shopping center tenants will be able to benefit and realize energy savings by opting to purchase the power generated
through the program at rates lower than retail prices. "Developers Diversified is a forward-thinking real estate company, bringing clean solar energy to its properties for
the benefit of its tenants and the environment through the largest distributed generation program of its kind", said Brian Jacolick, general manager Americas for SunEdison. "It’s
a way for Developers Diversified and its tenants to reduce operating costs. Furthermore, a typical-sized solar energy system in the program will avoid an estimated 10 million pounds of
carbon dioxide pollution", Jacolick added.
Developers Diversified Realty currently owns and manages approximately 720 retail operating and development properties in 45 US states as well as in Puerto Rico, Brazil, Russia and
Canada. Developers Diversified is a self-administered and self-managed trust operating as a fully integrated real estate company that acquires, develops, leases and manages shopping
centers.
2009-01-15 Courtesy: SunEdison, distributed generation, solar program, Developers Diversified Realty, solar energy services provider, solar electricity generation, solar
photovoltaic systems, shopping centers Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Roth & Rau AG and Innovalight complete installation of world’s first silicon-ink based solar cell pilot production
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Solar cell by Innovalight.
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Roth & Rau AG (Hohenstein-Ernstthal; Germany) and Innovalight Inc. (Sunnyvale, California ) have completed the installation of the world’s first silicon-ink based solar
cell production line. This first pilot manufacturing line has been built and installed at Innovalight, in Sunnyvale, California and has been qualified to operational capability over the
last two months of 2008, Roth & Rau reports in a press release. "The potential to lower costs by combining Innovalight’s silicon-ink platform and conventional silicon solar
cell technology is very impressive", commented Dr. Dietmar Roth, CEO of Roth & Rau AG, "Combining the strength of Roth & Rau’s manufacturing expertise and
Innovalight’s silicon nanotechnology has enormous potential in the marketplace", he added. The pilot line combines the qualities and cost benefits of crystal silicon
wafer technology with elegant silicon-ink processing technology to produce low cost, high performance solar cells.
Production capacity easily to be scaled to many hundreds of megawatts
Roth & Rau installed the majority of the solar cell manufacturing equipment which has been integrated with Innovalight’s custom proprietary inkjet printing platform and
silicon-ink manufacturing systems. This first pilot manufacturing platform installed at Innovalight has the capability of producing 10 Megawatts of solar power and can be easily scaled
to many hundreds of megawatts of electricity production, Roth & Rau emphasizes in its press release. "Roth & Rau has been a terrific partner to work with", said Conrad Burke,
President & Chief Executive at Innovalight. "They bring a great deal of manufacturing experience to this relationship as we continue to develop our technology toward
commercialization", he added.
2009-01-14 Courtesy: Roth & Rau AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Innovalight, Inc.
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ersol and Renusol are co-developing special mounting system for "Nova-T" thin-film modules
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Special system to mount ersol's Nova-T series
of thin-film modules.
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ersol Thin Film GmbH, a subsidiary of ersol Solar Energy AG (ersol, Erfurt) and Renusol GmbH, a company of CENTROSOLAR Group AG, Munich, have concluded a cooperative agreement to
co-develop a special system to mount ersol's Nova-T series of thin-film modules. The new system is to be based on Renusol's tried-and-tested construction for the flat-roof installation
of crystalline solar modules. The patented mounting system will then also be available for the first time in combination with ersol's thin-film modules in the 1.30 x 1.10 metre format.
The innovative Renusol flat-roof mounting system allows, among other things, the installation of solar modules on rooftops of industrial and residential buildings without the need for
penetration of the sensitive roof covering. A plastic vat is weighted down with gravel or concrete slabs and fitted with a photovoltaic module. Previously, this system was
designed exclusively for framed crystalline photovoltaic modules. The main objective of the development alliance that has been set up is to adapt the triedand-tested mounting system to
the special characteristics of ersol's amorphous Nova-T thin-film modules.
Appropriate fixtures for frameless glass-glass laminates
To this end, not only the construction's height and size need to be adjusted, but it also has to be equipped with various supplementary functions, such as the appropriate fixtures for
the frameless glass-glass laminate and an all-side support for the thin-film panels, as well as an integrated anti-slip device. The optimum static coordination of the plastic vat and
solar module promises attractive system costs and easy handling. "The mounting system developed in collaboration with ersol is to be particularly suitable for large flat rooftops with a
high residual loading capacity. Their use in large open-space installations is also conceivable", says Michael Kübsch, Managing Director of Renusol.
The first prototypes are currently being tested for their suitability for everyday use. The mounting system is to be commercially available as early as this summer. "This tailored
concept consisting of a module and mounting system will enable us, in future, to offer a very competitive system in order to provide photovoltaic solutions for previously neglected
surfaces", says Dr. Christian Koitzsch, Managing Director of ersol Thin Film GmbH.
2009-01-13 Courtesy: ersol Solar Energy AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Renusol GmbH
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WorldWater & Solar Technologies complete photovoltaic installation at Valley Center Municipal Water District
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1.1 MW solar power system at the Valley
Center Municipal Water District.
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WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corporation (Ewing, NJ), developer and marketer of solar systems, on January 5th, 2009 announced that it had completed the installation of a 1.1
megawatt (MW) solar power system for the Valley Center Municipal Water District (VCMWD) of Valley Center, California. The system, which was financed and will be owned, operated, and
maintained by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP; Mill Valley, California), is expected to provide 2.1 million kWh per year of electricity for the district, offsetting up to 20 % of the
electricity required by its largest pumping station. The project was developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which required no cash outlay from VCMWD, which will
purchase the generated power from SPP for the twenty-five year span of the agreement. "I am pleased to announce the successful completion of our flat-plate solar installation
at Valley Center, on schedule and to the client’s specifications", said Frank Smith, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of WorldWater and Solar Technologies. "This is another example
of our ability to deliver 'best in class' solar technology to large commercial clients, as we did for Denver International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport."
Green project beneficial for water district and affiliated companies
"Solar Power Partners is proud to partner with WorldWater and Valley Center on this exciting solar solution. This facility is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when water
districts adopt solar and support renewable energy", said Alexander v. Welczeck, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners. "After almost three years of negotiating, planning, and
implementation, it is very rewarding to finally see this 'double green' project come to life", says Gary Arant, General Manager of the Valley Center Municipal Water District. "This will
provide long-term financial benefits for our agency and community, as well as a reduced carbon production environment - thus double green." Additional partners on this project included
Sharp Solar (Mahwah, New Jersey), which supplied the panels for the project, and Xantrex Technology Inc.(Burnaby, British Columbia), a subsidiary of Schneider Electric (Ratingen,
Germany), which provided the inverters.
2009-01-13 Courtesy: Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Entech Solar Inc.
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German PV producer Sovello AG signs long-term sales partnerships
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String Ribbon-Technology for the
production of silicon ribbons.
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Sovello AG, producer of photovoltaic modules headquartered in Thalheim in Saxony-Anhalt (Germany), has signed long-term agreements with three German photovoltaic wholesale
distributors, the company reports in a press release. Signed in the fourth quarter of 2008, the contracts due to Sovello run from three to five years, respectively, and cover the
distribution of Sovello’s Pure Power Modules made out of crystalline silicon reaching a total volume of more than 120 Megawatt-peak (MWp) module capacity. The three contract
partners are EWS GmbH & Co. KG headquartered in Handewitt, Schleswig-Holstein, PV5 Solarconcept GmbH in Kleinostheim near Aschaffenburg, and Soleg GmbH located in Zwiesel,
Bavaria. EWS GmbH, a wholesale distributor and consulting firm for photovoltaic, solar heating and wood pellet heating systems, signed a five year sales partnership agreement
(2009 - 2013) with a volume of approximately 50 MWp. EWS GmbH & Co. KG is the market leader in northern Germany extending its sales of photovoltaic installations and other systems
for renewable energy production into northeastern Germany as well as Denmark and Sweden.
The second partner, PV5 Solarconcept GmbH, functions as a specialized wholesale distributor for solar power installations offering its products to its trade and commerce customers in
the Rhein-Main area and Bavaria as well as Spain and Italy. The supply contract with PV5 Solarconcept GmbH was signed for four years (2009 - 2012) agreeing on a volume of approximately
40 MWp. Soleg GmbH signed an initial agreement for three years (2009 - 2011) to distribute Sovello’s Pure Power Modules with a volume of approximately 30 MWp. A wholesaler and
system supplier for solar power and energy, Soleg GmbH also operates as a general contractor for large scale projects in southern Germany, the Czech Republic and Italy.
String Ribbon Technology saves up to 50 % energy and silicon
Sovello AG, headquartered in southern Sachsen-Anhalt and formerly known as EverQ GmbH, is a joint venture of Q-Cells AG (Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany), REC ASA (Sandvika,
Norway) and Evergreen Solar, Inc. (Marlboro, USA). The company produces "String Ribbon"-Wafers and cells by using a special production technology patented by Evergreen Solar, and
further assembles these "String Ribbon"-Wafers and cells into its high quality Pure Power Modules. With this technology, Sovello AG on own account uses up to 50 % less energy and
silicon in its production process compared to conventional production methods, thereby achieving a top position in the sustainability report of the solar industry, the company
emphasizes.
Christian Langen, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer at Sovello AG, expressed his satisfaction with the contract signing which occurred shortly before the end of the year: "We are very
pleased to have signed with these competitive and experienced regional partners for distribution of our high-quality products 'made in Germany' and who are joining us in our goal to
become the most sustainable solar company worldwide. These long-term partnership agreements underscore our focus on customer-oriented product development, and we will support the
distribution efforts of our partners with the appropriate marketing measures."
2009-01-12 Courtesy: Sovello AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Q-CELLS SE
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Photovoltaics: Yingli Green Energy signs sales contract with German GOLDBECK Solar
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PV panels by Yingli on the roof of
a soccer stadium at Kaiserslautern.
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Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (Baoding, China), a vertically integrated photovoltaic (PV) product manufacturer, on January 5th, 2009 announced that it had entered into
a sales contract with GOLDBECK Solar GmbH (Hirschberg, Germany), a German system specialist company for PV applications on industrial buildings. Under the terms of the contract, Yingli
Green Energy is expected to supply a minimum of 15 megawatts (MW) of PV modules to GOLDBECK Solar in 2009. In addition, the contract provides a framework for GOLDBECK Solar to purchase
up to an additional 58 MW of PV modules from Yingli Green Energy in 2009. "We are pleased to have Yingli as one of our key suppliers", said Joachim Goldbeck, general manager
of GOLDBECK Solar. "We aim to provide our customers maximum value with our products and services. Cooperating with top tier suppliers like Yingli is one of our principal strategies for
achieving these goals in order to secure customers on a long-term basis."
Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Yingli Green Energy said: "We look forward to working closely with GOLDBECK Solar in 2009. Given the cost advantage and
quality control capability of our vertically integrated business model, we can provide reliable and high quality products at a reasonable and competitive price, in line with our
strategy to continually enhance the value that we provide to our customers. We believe this will lead to a broader and deeper penetration of our products and brand awareness
worldwide."
2009-01-12 Courtesy: Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited
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LDK Solar updates outlook for the fourth quarter of 2008 and for 2009
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Construction site of LDK Solar's polysilicon
plant expected to ramp up full capacity in mid 2009.
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LDK Solar Co., a Chinese manufacturer of crystalline solar wafers, provided an updated outlook for the fourth quarter of 2008. Based upon preliminary data for the fourth quarter, LDK
Solar estimates revenue to be in the range of 5 to 5 million and wafer shipments between 245 to 255 MW and gross margin between 10% and 13%, the company reports in a press release
This compares to its previously issued guidance for the fourth quarter of 2008 of revenue in the range of 5 to 5 million and wafer shipments in the range of 260 to 270 MW, and
gross margin between 18% and 21%. According to the press release the capacity reached 1,460 MW at the end of 2008. During the fourth quarter of 2008, LDK Solar experienced lower demand
as customers requested to delay shipments until 2009 in light of the current global economic crisis and tight credit markets. The decrease in overall wafer shipments during
the quarter was partially offset by much higher than expected OEM wafer shipments. LDK Solar emphasizes.
2009 fiscal year results to be impacted by lower average selling prices and lower wafer shipment volumes
The company also announced in the press release that it experienced a delay in ramping production at its 1,000 MT polysilicon plant due to issues in the final stages of plant
commissioning. While the optimization process has taken longer than expected, the plant is currently in production, and is expected to ramp up to its designed full capacity in mid 2009.
Construction of the 15,000 MT polysilicon plant remains on schedule, the Company announced and it expects to commence silicon production in this facility during the second quarter of
2009. As a result of these dynamics affecting the global business environment, LDK Solar expects 2009 fiscal year results to be impacted by lower average selling prices and lower wafer
shipment volumes than previously anticipated. By its own account the company's updated outlook for the full year of fiscal 2009 sees the revenue to be in the range of .3 billion to
.5 billion, wafer shipments in the range of 1.57 GW to 1.67 GW, an annualized wafer production capacity to be 2.3 GW by the end of 2009, a gross margin between 22% and 27%, and a
production of between 3,000 and 5,000 MT of polysilicon in 2009.
LDK Solar remains focused on executing its growth strategy
"Late in the fourth quarter, we experienced a slowdown in our business related to the current global financial crisis", stated Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of LDK Solar. "Despite a
difficult operating environment, we remain focused on executing our growth strategy and believe that our competitive positioning as the largest and lowest-cost wafer producers in the
solar industry will provide us with a competitive edge for navigating through these challenging times. We continue to have a solid cash position, with more than 0 million, in
addition to unused credit facilities totaling in excess of 0 million and will continue to conservatively manage our resources. Our operations remain at full capacity, with contract
backlog remaining strong for 2009."
The business outlook for the three months ended December 31, 2008 and for the full year ending December 31, 2009 is an estimate. Results are subject to change based on further review by
the management. LDK Solar plans to report full fourth quarter and fiscal year 2008 results in late February or early March 2009, the company announces in the press release.
2009-01-11 Courtesy: LDK Solar Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: LDK Solar Co., Ltd.
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Photovoltaics: Evergreen Solar to expand capacity of its Devens manufacturing facility
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PV production in Evergreen Solar's Devens facility.
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Evergreen Solar, Inc. (Marlboro, Massachusetts), a manufacturer of solar power products, on January 5th, 2009 announced that it had shipped 8.5 Megawatts (MW) of products from its
Devens factory and an additional 3.7 MW from its Marlboro pilot manufacturing facility during the fourth quarter of 2008. The company also reports that it had received its certificate
of occupancy for the Devens facility and that it expects to reach full capacity of about 40 MW per quarter from Devens in the second half of 2009. "Despite an increasingly challenging
environment, including pricing pressure and softening demand in December, we produced and shipped more than 12 MW of products in the fourth quarter of 2008, including 8.5 MW from our
Devens facility", said Richard M. Feldt, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Evergreen Solar. "Because our Devens ramp remains on schedule, we ceased
production at our Marlboro pilot manufacturing facility on December 31st. Ongoing R&D activities will continue to be performed at our research and development facility in Marlboro
and advanced manufacturing piloting activities will be performed at our Devens manufacturing facility with little or no impact to overall production capacity.
Lowering overhead costs and reducing cash requirements
According to the press release, almost all of the Marlboro pilot facility employees had been transferred to Devens to fill open roles associated with the second phase of this facility.
The company expects to incur approximately 0,000 in severance costs through March 31st, 2009 for the individuals not transferred to Devens. Over the next 12 months, the Company may
also incur location restoration, disposition and moving costs of approximately three to five million US-Dollars. Evergreen Solar believes that closing its Marlboro pilot facility and
better utilizing existing equipment and facilities at its research and development center and at its Devens manufacturing facility will result in lower overhead costs and reduce overall
cash requirements.
2009-01-11 Courtesy: Evergreen Solar, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Evergreen Solar, Inc
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Suntech achieves 1 GW solar cell and module production capacity
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Suntech's 1 MW building integrated solar façade.
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Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (Wuxi, China), on own account the world's largest photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturer, held a ceremony on January 8th, 2009 celebrating the
achievement of reaching one GW PV cell and module production capacity in its Wuxi facility. The Company also announced the opening of its new headquarters in that incorporates a 1 MW
grid-connected building integrated solar facade, which is the largest in the world. "We are very proud to become the world's first PV solar company to achieve 1 GW of solar cell and
module production capacity", said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO. "Since our inception, we have focused on rapidly building world-class manufacturing
facilities that can meet the burgeoning global demand for green energy. This milestone is a credit to all Suntech employees that have tirelessly worked towards the common goal of making
cost-effective solar energy systems available on a global scale."
The world's largest on-grid photovoltaic facade system
Suntech also announced the opening of its new, state of the art solar headquarters in Wuxi, China. The 18,000 square meter building due to Suntech incorporates the world's largest
on-grid photovoltaic facade system, with over 2,552 semi-transparent Light Thru(TM) solar panels and an annual power output of over one million kilowatt hours of electricity. The solar
energy produced will save over 600 tons of carbon emissions every year. In addition, the headquarters features energy efficient building materials, geothermal temperature control,
movement sensor lighting and a comprehensive water recycling system. The 1MW solar facade was installed by Suntech's in-house system integration team, which has completed a range of
technically complex building integrated solar systems, including the 120 kW Beijing Jingya Hotel Curtain Wall and 800 kW Light Thru system at the Wuxi Airport.
Another important step towards the ongoing development of the Chinese solar market
"It is a great pleasure to open our new headquarters in Wuxi, China, which is powered by a 1MW solar façade", said Dr. Shi. "We believe that building integrated solar systems are the
way forward for environmentally friendly architecture and our new headquarters is an excellent demonstration of how solar can be seamlessly incorporated into modern and attractive
buildings." Dr. Shi continued. "The connection of the 1MW solar facade to the local electricity grid is another important step towards the ongoing development of the Chinese solar
market. There are a number of significant solar projects that are currently being developed in China including the 3MW solar roof project for the World Expo Shanghai 2010, and several
10 MW-projects that are in the early development and bidding phase in Dunhuang city, Yunnan province and Qinghai province. These solar projects are reflective of China's commitment to
sustainable energy generation and the growing momentum in the domestic solar market."
2009-01-09 Courtesy: Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd.
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International energy experts meet in March 2009 at the World Climate and Energy Event RIO9 in Brazil
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World Climate and Energy Event "RIO6".
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The World Climate and Energy Event "RIO9" will bring together leading experts from research, technology, industry and politics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With oral and poster
presentations, the delegates will demonstrate on three days case studies, perspectives and potentials of renewable energies in Brazil and worldwide. Network forums will offer excellent
opportunities for the knowledge transfer. At the accompanying Latin American Renewable Energy Fair (LAREF), exhibitors from all over the world will present their latest renewable energy
technologies and services. Related workshops on sustainable architecture, carbon trading and practical knowledge of renewable energy implementation will accompany the event,
together with excursions to Brazilian energy projects. A solar powered rock concert is organised for the delegates at the Copacabana Beach.
PV in the spotlight
Spotlight of RIO9 is photovoltaic energy which is close to its economic break-through in many countries located in the sun-belt of our planet. "Brazil is one of the first countries
where grid parity of photovoltaic electricity becomes reality", says Professor Stefan Krauter of the Berlin-based Photovoltaik-Institut and of Hochschule Biberach who organises the
event. "Electricity prices of 21 Eurocents per kWh in combination with high irradiation levels of up to 2,100 kWh per square metre each year create a gigantic market for cost-effective
PV", he adds.
Light for all – powered by the sun
The spectrum for PV applications is much broader in Brazil than it is in Europe because 36 percent of the rural population does not have access to electricity. In remote areas, PV is
often cheaper than energy from diesel generators. In addition, the Brazilian governmental program "Luz para todos" provides excellent opportunities for distributors, investors and
system integrators of off grid technology.
About RIO9
After the first World Summit of the United Nations in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, the following RIO events brought together leading experts from science, politics and industry to secure the
implementation of renewable and energy saving strategies. In 2009, the conference and the fair - organised by Rio Solar Ltda. in Rio de Janeiro - will take place for the fifth
time.
Further information: http://www.rio9.com
2009-01-09 Courtesy: RIO 9 – LAREF 2009 Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: RIO 9 – LAREF 2009
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pvresources annual report 2008: large-size PV plants with a capacity of 3,200 MWp connected to the grid
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world market shares of large-size PV plants
at the end of 2008
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At the end of 2008 worldwide more than 1,700 photovoltaic (PV) power plants with a nominal capacity of 200 kilowatts (kW) each or even more were in operation. The cumulative power of
these solar electric power plants due to figures of the solarserver's partner portal site pvresources.com exceeds 3,200 megawatts (MW). More than 800 solar power plant with a capacity
of more than one MW have been in operation or being tested at the End of the last year. According to preliminary data collected by pvresources 63 % of the total capacity of utility
scale PV plants (>200 MW) were installed in Spain. Noteworthy market shares are held by Germany 650 MW, 20 %), the United States (230 MW, 7%), Korea (scarcely 100 MW, 3%), Portugal
(60 MW, 2%) and Italy (scarcely 60 MW, 2%). In Spain the installed PV capacity in the third and fourth quarter of 2008 reached one gigawatt (GW). Compared with 2007 the
capacity of utility scale PV plants in Spain grew more than sevenfold. At the end of 2007 approximately 270 MW were connected to the grid, at the end of 2008 the cumulated capacity
reached approximately 2.020 MW.
New megawatt solar plants in the Czech Republic and in France
In the European Community a positive market development was visible also in the Czech Republic an in France. Multiple megawatt solar plants have been completed in the Czech Republic in
2008. A solar plant with a capacity of 7 MW was connected to the grid in France. Although Spain has been the unambiguous focus of market development in Germany additional large size
plants have been completed as well. juwi Holding AG for instance connected the solar power plants at Brandis (40 MW) and Koethen (15 MW) to the net.
Further information: http://www.pvresources.com
2009-01-08 Courtesy: www.pvresources.com Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: www.pvresources.com
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Toshiba enters solar photovoltaic systems business
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Atsutoshi Nishida, President and
Chief Executive Officer
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Toshiba Corporation (Tokyo) on Janauary 5th,2009 announced its full-scale entry into the solar photovoltaic systems business. On January 1st, Toshiba's Transmission Distribution
& Industrial Systems Company established the Photovoltaic Systems Division, a dedicated business management and promotion organization that will take the initiative in responding to
a surge in demand for solar photovoltaic systems, widely recognized as a key measure against global warming. Solar photovoltaic systems are moving beyond residential applications to
large, megawatt-scale projects for utility and industrial plants. Toshiba will secure orders for large solar power generation systems by drawing on its competitive advantages, the
company announces in its press release. In components, the company's expertise includes high-efficiency power conditioning systems and the SCiB—the Super Charge ion Battery -
Toshiba's breakthrough rechargeable battery. In system integration, Toshiba can point to world-class capabilities in system integration, particularly in connecting generation
systems to distribution systems; in microgrids that connect and manage dispersed small-scale power generation sources, including renewable energy sources; and in large plant system
engineering capabilities.
Focus on renewable energy and energy-saving products and technologies
In fiscal year the global solar photovoltaic systems market for utility and industrial plants is expected to reach 2.2 trillion yen (approximately US.4 billon) from that of 1.2
trillion yen (approximately US.3 billion) in fiscal year 2008. Toshiba will promote business expansion by utilizing existing global sales channels and expects to achieve an annual
business scale of about 200 billion yen (approximately US.2 billion) by fiscal year 2015. Toshiba will seek a rapid expansion of the business by focusing on renewable energy and
energy-saving products and technologies, including SCiB. Toshiba's ultimate goal is a business expansion that addresses customers' needs and makes progress alongside the company's
long-term contributions to a better environment.
2009-01-08 Courtesy: Toshiba Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Toshiba Corporation
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CTDC to build a 30 MW on-grid solar power plant in China; long-term objective reaches up to 1 gigawatt
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CTDC and QNE intend to build the world's
largest PV plant
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The China Technology Development Group Corporation (CTDC, Hong Kong, China), a provider of solar energy products and solutions focussing on a-Si thin film technology, on January 2nd,
2009 announced a solar photovoltaic project which will be realized together with the Qinghai New Energy Group Co., Ltd (QNE, Xining City, China). According to the press release, an
agreement had been signed with the government of the Qinghai Haixi Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Region on the construction of an on-grid solar power station in the Qaidam Basin in
northwestern China with an initial nominal capacity of 30 megawatts (MW). The total long-term objective of the project may reach up to 1 gigawatt (GW) capacity, the company announces in
its press release. At present the biggest solar PV power plant (46 MW) is situated in Amareleja (Moura, Portugal). In August 2008 Pacific Gas and Electric had announced to
build two solar PV plants with a total capacity of 800 MW in California. Under the agreement, CTDC and QNE will design, construct and manage the solar power plant. The local government
of the Haixi Region announced strong support such as by helping to obtain various local and central government backed incentives and by providing land.
Public-private cooperation to realize ambitious gigawatt solar project
The Qaidam solar power plant, the first to integrate crystalline silicon and thin-film solar modules in China, is expected to become the largest on-grid solar power station of the
world. The construction of the project due to CTDC will begin in 2009 with an initial investment of US $ 150 million. With ample sunshine, a vast desert landmass and broad power grids,
the Qaidam Basin is regarded as an optimal location to build a large scale on-grid solar power plant. In 2005, the Chinese government approved to establish Qaidam as a special Economic
Experimental Zone to develop a circular economy and renewable energy projects. "The ambitious plan to build such a large scale solar power plant is a significant step for the Qinghai
Province to develop and deploy solar energy by taking full advantage of our abundance in solar and desert resources of Qaidam Basin", commented Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinhas
Province and Mayor of Xining. "With the recognition and commitment of the Chinese government to developing renewable energy technology, we expect that the domestic solar energy and
application market will expand rapidly in the near future", said Alan Li, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CTDC.
2009-01-07 Courtesy: China Technology Development Group Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: China Technology Development Group Corporation
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Photovoltaics: Green Energy Technology starts mass production of large size solar thin-films
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Green Energy Technology's SunFab
production line
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Taiwan-based solar company Green Energy Technology Inc., Ltd. (Guanyin Township, Taiwan) on December 24th, 2008 announced that it had started the production on its large size
thin-film line. The line’s total capacity is expected to reach 30 Megawatts (MW) during the first quarter of 2009 and up to 50 MW by the 4th quarter, according to schedule. The
opening of the production line comes in the wake of tests and of preliminary mass-production of over 600 thin-film solar modules from mid-November to December of 2008. The modules
produced in December had met the company’s yield rate requirements and reached conversion efficiencies of up to 7%, according to the press release. The company is now
producing commercial modules and plans to start shipments to contracted customers during the first quarter of the year.
Specialized equipment to produce large-sized solar modules
The amorphous silicon line is equipped with Applied Material’s SunFab design and produces solar modules measuring 2.2 by 2.6 meters. Green Energy Technology is the first company
to mass produce large thin film modules in Taiwan. "We are planning to get TUV certification for quarter size modules in Q1, 2009, and certification for the full-size modules in Q3,
2009", said Hur-Lon Lin, President of Green Energy Technology. "We will keep expanding our worldwide marketing network from Europe to the U.S. and into developing countries. The
horizontal integration we are doing now is to make us able to expand service scale from crystalline wafer to thin film module and furthermore system design." In September, the company
had announced contracts with three German and Spanish solar system makers totaling 39.86 million Euros.
2009-01-07 Courtesy: Green Energy Technology Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Green Energy Technology Inc.
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First Solar completes 10 MW thin film solar power plant for Sempra Generation
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Sempra's 10 MW PV power plant with
modules by First Solar
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First Solar, Inc. (Tempe, Arizona) on December 22nd, 2008 announced the completion of its first 10 megawatt (MW) ground-mounted photovoltaic power plant for Sempra Generation near
Boulder City, Nevada. Due to First Solar this project is the largest thin film solar power plant in North America. First Solar served as the engineering, procurement and construction
(EPC) contractor for this PV power plant and will provide monitoring and maintenance services for the plant over its lifetime. This project was constructed in less than six months,
First Solar reports in a press release. The project was developed by Sempra Generation, which will own and operate the PV power plant. First Solar constructed the 10 MW PV
power plant adjacent to Sempra's existing 480 MW El Dorado Energy power plant about 40 miles southeast of Las Vegas. The solar modules deployed in this ground-mount project were
produced at First Solar's manufacturing facility in Perrysburg, Ohio.
Life cycle management from raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling
First Solar is the world's leading supplier of thin film PV modules, stemming largely from the superior product design and unique semiconductor technology that makes First Solar modules
the most cost-effective on the market. Underlying First Solar's success is a commitment to product life cycle management, as illustrated by the solar industry's first comprehensive
module collection and recycling program. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating cost-effective renewable energy
solutions that protect and enhance the environment.
"The build out of this 10MW solar power plant from start to finish in less than six months marks the successful completion of our first utility scale EPC project", said John Carrington,
First Solar executive vice president marketing and business development. "We applaud Sempra's commitment to expand their renewable energy portfolio--investing in clean energy
infrastructure while creating green jobs and addressing climate change and energy independence."
"This is a significant step in the development and deployment of renewable solar power", said Michael W. Allman, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation. "It reflects
the commitment by Sempra Generation and western U.S. utilities to meet the challenges posed by climate change with reliable, renewable energy. The size and scope of this new solar
generation facility clearly demonstrates that we can build projects on a scale that helps utilities meet their renewable energy goals."
2009-01-07 Courtesy: First Solar Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: First Solar
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ACCIONA puts into service the world’s biggest photovoltaic power plant in Portugal
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PV plant Amareleja
(46 MWp).
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ACCIONA Energy has put into service its photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Amareleja (Moura, Portugal), the Company announced in a press release.
ACCIONA on own account has invested around 261 million euro (§ 367 million) in the 46 MWp plant, the largest of its kind in the world. Amareleja due to ACCIONA is capable of producing
93 million KW/h a year equivalent to the electrical consumption of over 30,000 Portuguese households and will avoid the 89,383 tons of CO2 emissions a year that would have otherwise
been produced by the coal-fired power stations required to produce the same amount of power. The plant was constructed in the record time of just thirteen months. ACCIONA is
an international reference in renewable energies and this new project further strengthens the company's position as a world leader in solar energy and enhances its outstanding track
record in Spain, where ACCIONA already has an installed capacity of 68 MW of PV, with a further 100 MW of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) currently under construction; and in the USA,
where ACCIONA owns the largest CSP plant built in the world in the last seventeen years (64 MW).
A total area of 250 hectares
The Amareleja PV plant is 100 percent owned by ACCIONA. In January 2007, the company acquired the total capital of Amper Solar (the company that owned the rights of the installation)
from the latter's shareholders - Moura Town Council (88 %), Comoiprel (2 %) and the firm of consultants Renatura Networks.Com (10 %).
The plant covers a total area of 250 hectares, located in the parish of Amareleja in the municipality of Moura, in Portugal's Alentejo region, not far from the border with Spain. It has
2,520 Buskil trackers (ACCIONA in-house technology), each with a surface of 142 m2, 13 meters long and 10.87 meters high. Each tracker has 104 polycrystalline silicon modules with a
capacity of 170 and 180 Wp, and the trackers support a total 262,080 PV modules. The trackers follow the sun with an azimutal rotation movement of 240 degrees, and a fixed inclination
of 45 degrees.
The first 3 MW were installed at the end of 2007, and were connected provisionally in March 2008. This year has seen the installation of the remainder of the plant's solar field and the
construction of the evacuation line, and last week the plant was finally connected to the grid.
Built by ACCIONA Solar
The Amareleja power plant was built by ACCIONA Solar, a subsidiary of ACCIONA Energy. An average 150 workers worked on the plant's construction, with a peak of almost 500 workers at
certain moments. ACCIONA Solar is a leading player in solar power installations and has installed 68 MWp in Spain, a substantial part of which are the so-called huertas solares ("solar
gardens"), a concept created and patented by the company. Over 3,500 owners have so far invested a total 456 million euro in this kind of installation.
Helping to meet energy objectives
The Amareleja PV plant will help to achieve the objectives laid out in the Portuguese government's E4 Energy Efficiency and Endogenous Energies policy and to meet Portugal's greenhouse
gases reduction commitments. In the case of PV power, the aim is to install 150 MWp, of which Amareleja will account for 30 %. The plant is expected to create wealth and employment in
the region and is certain to become a reference for solar energy development.
2009-01-06 Courtesy: ACCIONA Energy Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ACCIONA Solar
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Nippon Oil Corporation develops a system to partially utilize solar power to propel ships
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NYK and Nippon Oil will usebsolar power
to propel ships
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As part of corporate efforts to reduce CO2 emissions from ocean-going vessels, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) and Nippon Oil Corporation have agreed to jointly develop a system
to partially utilize solar power to propel ships, the companies report in a press release. This full-scale installation of a solar power generator is a world-first, and will produce as
much as 40 kilowatts of power, which is expected to supplement existing power production on large vessels. According to the press release NYK engaged against a backdrop of
intensifying pressure on companies worldwide to combat global warming in the research and development of next-generation eco-friendly ships. This engagement includes technologies to
utilize renewable energy for all aspects of ocean transportation. On the other hand, Nippon Oil as a leading global total energy solutions company, has been working to cultivate the
market for solar photovoltaic power generation systems, and has continued the development of related new products.
Joint eco-project starts with a new car carrier
In order to work toward the mutual goal of fighting climate change, NYK and Nippon Oil have decided to establish a joint eco-project starting with the new car carrier planned to be
completed in December 2008, the companies report in the press release. The installation of solar power generators onto ships has been limited to use within crews’ onboard living
areas due to the harsh shipboard environment, which is subject to salt-water damage and constant vibrations. Through this project, NYK and Nippon Oil will begin testing the 40-kilowatt
solar generation system by installing it onto the car-carrier and connecting it to the onboard 440V electrical network.
Support by the automotive industry
In addition, as a part of its corporate strategy to reduce environmental burdens caused by the life cycle of automobiles, Toyota Motor Corporation has agreed to support this initiative
as a shipper in order to reduce CO2 emissions from the ocean transportation of finished cars.
2009-01-05 Courtesy: Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line); Nippon Oil Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: NYK/ Nippon Oil Corporation
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International PV trade mission to India explores new opportunities for solar industry
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Impression from a SolarPlaza business
mission in China
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SolarPlaza (Rotterdam, Netherlands), a company and marketplace connecting solar industry members, will lead an international trade mission to India from February 16th to 20th 2009.
The aim of the mission will be to explore the potential for a strong market in India for solar products in the coming years, an opportunity that could reap huge dividends for solar
manufacturers, SolarPlaza emphasizes in its press release. In India, one of the world’s fastest-developing countries, about 400 million people currently have no access to the
electric grid. With about 301 clear, sunny days a year, solar power stands to become the predominant energy source for the nation, which is currently exploring ways to deal with its
energy shortage, SolarPlaza reports. Already, some large-scale projects are being proposed, including a 35,000 km² area of the Thar Desert that’s been set aside for a
solar power project generating 700,000 to 2.1 million Megawatts.
India’s solar market offering opportunities for the solar industry
Due to SolarPlaza so far, only about 1,748 MW of power are produced from solar energy, while India needs 1.3 million MW of electricity each year. "India is just getting started", said
Johan Trip, CGO of SolarPlaza, a portal site for news, trade, information and events about the worldwide solar industry. "The world needs to be better educated about India’s solar
market, which offers a huge opportunity for the solar industry. The purpose of this mission is also to connect solar industry experts, business developers and project developers looking
for panels with Indian manufacturers", Trip says. SolarPlaza will give participants an inside track to connecting with customers in India. It will also facilitate a look at such Indian
companies as Moser Baer, Solar Semiconductor and XL Telecom, all Indian manufacturers of solar photovoltaic panels.
Incentives aimed to create a solar industry in the coming years
Government incentives aimed at creating a solar industry in India have lead to start-ups which could solidify a solar industry there in the coming years. SolarPlaza will open doors for
members of the solar industry at their factories in Bangalore, Hyderbad and New Delhi. In addition, SolarPlaza will host two conferences highlighting the growing opportunities in India.
Representatives of the global solar industry will have the opportunity to meet, network and make business connections with Indian companies and other key players in India’s solar
energy market.
2009-01-04 Courtesy: SolarPlaza Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SolarPlaza
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