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US-utility AEP signs 250 MW wind power purchase agreement
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US-utility AEP expands generation mix
by adding wind energy capacities.
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The utility American Electric Power (AEP; Columbus, Ohio) announced that its operating units had signed power purchase agreements (PPA) for renewable wind energy totaling
approximately 250 megawatts (MW), to serve its customers in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia. AEP reports that with these 20-year agreements, it has contracted for
903.4 MW of wind generation capacity since 2007, when it had committed to adding 1,000 MW of renewable wind energy to its generation mix by 2011. When the wind generation from
the new contracts will be on line, AEP's generation mix will include 310 MW of wind turbines owned and operated by AEP in Texas, and another 1,371 MW of long-term wind energy purchase
agreements. The total of wind energy in the company's generation portfolio will then amount to 1,681 MW, according to the press release.
Power purchase agreements tap wind farms in AEP's service area
AEP's Appalachian Power unit has contracted to purchase 100.5 MW from a wind farm in LaSalle County, Illinois, that is being developed by Invenergy Wind LLC (Chicago, Illinois). AEP
Ohio will purchase 100 MW from a wind farm in Benton County, Indiana, that is being developed by BP Wind Energy. AEP's Indiana Michigan Power unit will purchase another 50 MW from the
same wind farm in Benton County. "Since we built the first utility-scale wind farm in Texas nearly 14 years ago, AEP has supported the development of renewable generation to help
diversify the U.S. electricity generation mix and reduce greenhouse gas emissions", said Michael G. Morris, AEP Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "We have been able
to effectively execute our aggressive plan to add 1,000 megawatts of wind energy to serve our customers in just a few years, due to the rapid growth in U.S. wind projects."
Upgrade in US electricity grid needed to expand renewable energy generation
Morris attributes the growth of renewable power generation in part to the federal tax credits (FTC). He embraces the current economic stimulus plan, especially the proposals that help
to encourage renewable energy projects. "Continuing rapid expansion of renewable electricity generation in the United States also requires a federal plan for an extra-high voltage
transmission superhighway to move renewable energy from where it is most abundant and viable to population and electricity load centers. That plan must include federal oversight for
siting and widespread cost allocation for these long-distance, extra-high voltage transmission projects," Morris said.
2009-02-28 Courtesy: American Electric Power Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: American Electric Power
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NRG Energy to develop up to 500 MW of solar thermal power plants in the US
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Scalable solar thermal technology by eSolar.
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NRG Energy, Inc. (Princeton, New Jersey), on February 23rd, 2009 announced that it had signed an agreement with eSolar Inc. (Pasadena, California), a leading provider of modular,
scalable solar thermal power technology, to develop solar power plants with a total generation capacity of up to 500 megawatts (MW) at sites in California and in the Southwest.
According to the press release these installations will be able to power more than 400,000 homes at peak capacity with 100% clean solar electricity. The first plant is scheduled to
begin production as early as 2011. NRG says it will invest approximately million for equity and associated development rights for three solar projects, and a portfolio of power
purchase agreements (PPA) to develop, build, own and operate up to 11 eSolar modular solar generating units. These developments will use eSolar's concentrating solar power (CSP)
technology and sell renewable electricity under contracted PPAs with local utilities that seek competitively priced, zero-carbon solar power, according to the press release.
"This is NRG's first venture into solar power and it brings an exceptionally important component to the low- and no-carbon focus of our RepoweringNRG program", said Michael Liebelson,
Chief Development Officer Low Carbon Technology for NRG Energy. "By coupling NRG's construction capabilities and regional operating expertise with eSolar's innovative CSP technology, we
can advance NRG's renewable energy portfolio while helping to accelerate development of these important projects on a commercial scale", Liebelson concluded.
Demonstration plant for CSP-technology in Southern California to provide valuable insights
eSolar, according to the press release, is currently completing its first commercial demonstration CSP plant in Southern California. The installation of this plant is expected to
provide eSolar valuable design, construction and operational insights to provide NRG the foundation for the implementation of commercial scale facilities. "eSolar's breakthrough modular
power plants use more software and less steel to allow solar energy to be competitive with fossil fuels for the first time ever", said Bill Gross, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
eSolar. "NRG Energy's extensive project skills and focus on advancing a diverse portfolio of energy generation technology will help accelerate the deployment of eSolar's CSP technology
in locations across the US." By leveraging a proprietary combination of optics and software in a pre-fabricated form factor, eSolar achieves economies of scale while focusing on key
issues such as price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact.
2009-02-26 Courtesy: eSolar Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: eSolar Inc.
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Photovoltaics: National Semiconductor to introduce power management system to mitigate shading in solar arrays
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Shading can lead to disproportionate
power losses
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Most installers of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems (54 percent) believe no amount of shading is acceptable on residential and commercial rooftop solar installations, a new survey
shows. The National Semiconductor Corporation (National; Santa Clara, California) had commissioned the study to better understand installers' views on the impact of partial or temporary
shading, the company announced in a press release on February 23rd, 2009. Due to the characteristics of solar arrays, small amounts of shade can lead to disproportionate power losses of
more than 50 percent. National reports that it will introduce a technology later this spring, which will allow installers and homeowners to embrace shade and recoup up to 50 percent of
power losses associated with partial shading. The survey, conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research (San Francisco, California), found that 41 percent of the 150
participating solar installers had encountered shading issues when selling or installing a PV system, and 87 % of those "frequently" or "always" designed around shaded areas. Some told
house owners that a PV system could not be installed due to shading issues. The study also revealed that installers had often placed smaller solar arrays in order to avoid shady
sections of customers' roofs. Roughly one third of installers said designing around shading increases system costs, and many said they lose time doing so.
Power optimizing technology said to boost solar system performance by 30%
"Shade happens, and customers and solar installers are picking up the tab", said Ralf Muenster, director of National Semiconductor's Renewable Energy Key Market Segment. "There is a
real need to educate the market that shade does not mean 'lights out' for solar. Shade can be mitigated." While solar cell manufacturers have so far concentrated on research and
development to improve conversion efficiencies, few have attempted to solve power mismatches from different panels within a solar array, National emphasizes in its press release. This
could, according to National, yield improvements in system performance of more than 30 percent. National Semiconductor plans to introduce its "SolarMagic" power optimizer later this
spring. The new energy management product will mark National's strategic entry into the photovoltaic market, the company accentuated. The power optimizer will, according to the press
release, enable installers to place PV systems on roofs previously regarded as inadequate for a solar array. "Many customers are seeing impaired performance from their solar systems",
added Muenster. "Lessening the impact of partial or temporary shading by retrofitting power optimizers will help owners of existing solar systems. But SolarMagic technology will also
contribute to the growth of the PV market, allowing the installation of solar arrays on roofs previously regarded as unsuitable. It will dramatically increase the reliability and
maximize the energy harvest of photovoltaic panels in imperfect real world conditions."
2009-02-26 Courtesy: National Semiconductor Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: National Semiconductor Corporation
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US-utility PG&E launches 500 MW solar electric power initiative
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PG&E is already purchasing the full output of
Sempra Generation's 10 megawatt (MW) PV
plant "El Dorado Solar C.".
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The utility Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E; San Francisco, California), a subsidiary of the PG&E Corporation, on February 24th, 2009 announced its plans for a
five-year program to develop up to 500 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) power in its northern and central California service area, one of the largest undertakings of its kind
in the United States. The proposed program comprises up to 250 MW of utility-owned PV generation capacity and an additional 250 MW to be built and owned by independent developers under
a streamlined regulatory process. PG&E reports that it had submitted the plan to the California Public Utilities Commission (San Francisco, California) for approval, which could be
granted later this year. If all projects are up and running by 2015, they are expected to deliver more than 1,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) of solar electricity each year, which
equals the annual consumption of about 150,000 average homes. In all, this program could meet over 1.3 percent of PG&E's total electricity demand, according to the company's press
release.
Governor Schwarzenegger: Keeping California on the leading edge of the solar industry
"I applaud PG&E for its commitment to making a direct investment in clean, renewable solar energy generation that will eventually power tens of thousands of California homes," said
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "By bringing renewables online as quickly as possible and advancing the development of green technologies, this effort will advance California's
aggressive push to meet our long-term energy and climate change goals, while keeping California on the leading edge of this booming industry."
Program targets mid-sized PV projects mounted on the ground or on rooftops with a capacity between one and up to 20 MW
"This program represents an unprecedented commitment of our capital and expertise to speed the delivery of clean, renewable energy to our customers", said Peter Darbee, Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) and President at PG&E. "With many renewable-energy projects delayed, we can't afford business as usual when it comes to protecting the environment and meeting our
customers' expectations." PG&E's solar program targets mid-sized projects mounted on the ground or on rooftops within its service area, typically with a capacity between one and 20
MW. Where feasible, projects developed and owned by PG&E would be built on land already owned by the utility, or near its substations to minimize the cost and delays of
interconnecting them to the power grid, the press release explains.
Solar and environmental associations appreciating the program
Sue Kateley, Executive Director of the California Solar Energy Industries Association (CALSEIA; Rio Vista, California), said: "We're pleased that PG&E is providing significant
additional resources to promote the development of solar power in California. Its commitment to solar energy, and its thoughtful balance of utility and privately owned projects under
this program, will help ensure continued growth of this market in California, benefiting suppliers, workers and the environment." Julia Hamm, Executive Director of the Solar Electric
Power Association (SEPA; Washington, DC) and Sheryl Carter, Energy Program Co-Director at the Natural Resources Defense Council (New York City, New York) were also among the industry
and environmental spokespersons who commended PG&E on its ambitious solar initiative.
2009-02-26 Courtesy: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
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Manz Automation AG: record-breaking results with solar technology
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Laser scribing of thin-
film solar modules.
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Manz Automation AG (Reutlingen, Germany), one of the worlds’s leading technology providers for the photovoltaic and LCD industries, recorded significant revenue and profit
growth last fiscal year, and thus new record-breaking results. According to preliminary figures, the Manz Group increased its revenues from € 71.3 million last year by more than
232% to € 236.5 million. The fourth quarter of 2008 alone contributed € 77.4 million to revenues (previous year: € 24.5 million). At the same time, Manz almost tripled
its total operating revenue to € 234.8 million (previous year: € 81.5 million), the company reports in a press release. This positive growth was based not only on strong
operating growth in the solar sector, but also the successful integration of the three companies acquired in fiscal year 2008. This means that Manz has significantly expanded
both its product portfolio by adding new technologies, and also its production capacity.
€ 141.5 million revenues with "systems.solar"
Growth last fiscal year was again driven by the "systems.solar" division, where revenues were up € 51.1 million to € 141.5 million. The systems.lcd segment also made a major
contribution to revenues of € 46.5 million (previous year: € 8.7 million), due in particular to Manz Intech Machines Co., Ltd. which has been consolidated since April 2008.
The company's EBIT increased from € 10.0 million to around € 28.6 million – this figure thus also almost tripled. In the fourth quarter of 2008, the result from
operating activities totaled € 9.8 million. This means that the EBIT margin for 2008 as a whole (in terms of revenues recorded) was 12.1%.
CEO Dieter Manz is very pleased with the record-breaking year: "We reached key strategic milestones last year. These include significantly increasing our capacity and integrating
innovative technologies in our product range. And that's what it takes to further expand our technology leadership and develop new markets!" At the same time, Dieter Manz is also
optimistic about what the future holds: "We will conquer the challenges that face us, and we are very confident that we will be able to link in to the substantial growth rates we
enjoyed in the past after mastering the economic crisis. Our strong research and development competence, long-standing strategic alliances and our solid position on international
markets are the key foundations in this regard!"
photovoltaics to play a key role in the global energy mix
As of December 31, 2008, the Manz Group's order book on own account totaled around € 107 million, and the bulk of this will be recognized in revenues and earnings in fiscal year
2009. Over the long-term, photovoltaics will play a key role in the global energy mix, securing the electricity supply. That is why experts in the solar sector are forecasting
substantial increases in growth rates again in the coming years. As a leading provider of system solutions in automation, quality assurance, laser process technology and wet chemicals,
Manz Automation is thus excellently positioned to be able to enjoy substantial benefits from this trend.
2009-02-26 Courtesy: Manz Automation AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Manz Automation AG
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Japanese PV module manufacturer Kyocera breaks ground on new production plant in China
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Groundbreaking ceremony for the new
Kyocera plant in China.
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The Japanese technology corporation Kyocera (Kyoto), manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) products, on February 20th, 2009 announced the construction of a new solar module manufacturing
plant (Kyocera Tianjin Solar) in Tianjin City (China) in order to expand its production capacity. The construction of the new facility, according to a press release, was timed to align
Kyoceras production capacity for solar modules with the increase in production of solar cells, which Kyocera plans to expand to a total of 650 megawatts (MW) capacity by March 2012.
Kyocera Tianjin Solar is expected to manufacture solar modules mainly for the Asian market. The target production capacity is set to increase from the facility's current capacity of 60
MW by four times, to a total of 240 MW in 2011. The construction of the new manufacturing plant is scheduled to begin in April 2009 and to be completed in the spring of 2010,
if everything works out as planned. Upon completion of the new plant, all Kyocera Tianjin Solar manufacturing operations will subsequently be transferred to the new facility, Kyocera
announced.
Increasing production capacity for the Asian solar market
On February 18th, 2009 the groundbreaking ceremony for the scheduled construction of the new plant was held on the site adjacent to the current facility. In 2003 Kyocera was the first
Japanese company to establish a solar module manufacturing plant in China, anticipating future growth in the Asian market. Together with the Kyocera Group's manufacturing facilities for
solar modules in Japan, Mexico and the Czech Republic, Kyocera Tianjin Solar supplies solar photovoltaic modules to the leading Asian markets of Japan, South Korea and China as one of
the group's four global manufacturing centers. Kyocera says it will continue to increase its production capacity to correspond to the PV markets demand, aiming for the further expansion
of its solar energy business.
2009-02-25 Courtesy: Kyocera Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Kyocera Corporation.
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Photovoltaics: SunPower completes 2.2-megawatt solar power system in California and announces megawatt project in Italy
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PV arrays at the LACOSAN Plant in
north Lakeport, California.
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SunPower Corp. (San Jose, California), a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar energy systems, the General Electric Company (GE; Stamford, Connecticut),
California's Lake County (Lakeport, California) and the Lake County Sanitation District (LACOSAN; Lakeport, California), on February 19th, 2009, announced the completion of a
2.2-megawatt (MW) solar-electric power system (PV) on three sites, including the county's jail and two wastewater treatment plants. Combining the new system with an existing 1-MW solar
PV installation, Lake County is now home to the largest solar power installation on county facilities in California, according to the joint press release. The combined 3.2-MW system is
able to produce the equivalent of 94 percent of the facilities' electricity requirements. "We expect these solar power installations to save Lake County taxpayers and
ratepayers between .6 million and million over the next 20 years, depending on utility rate increases", said Mark Dellinger, special districts administrator for LACOSAN. The solar
energy system consists of a 602 kilowatt (kW) installation at the Lake County Jail, two installations at the Northwest Wastewater Treatment Plant with a combined capacity of 1 MW, and a
522 kW array at LACOSAN's Southeast Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Lake County committed to building a sustainable community infrastructure
The wastewater that LACOSAN treats, recycles and transports is used to recharge its geothermal power system dubbed "The Geysers". According to the press release, it is the world's
largest complex of geothermal and other alternative sources of energy. "These solar facilities represent a critical part of Lake County's overall energy program", said Denise Rushing,
Chair of the Lake County Board of Supervisors. "The County truly appreciates the innovation demonstrated by SunPower and GE, and for their partnership with us to make this happen." GE
Energy Financial Services, a unit of GE, had financed the system in partnership with SunPower. Both companies will own the solar power plant, as well as the associated renewable energy
credits (REC) and environmental benefits. Under a SunPower 'Access' power purchase agreement (PPA), the partnership is selling electricity to the County and LACOSAN at fixed rates,
providing a long-term hedge against rising peak power prices. "Lake County and LACOSAN took advantage of the SunPower Access PPA to build and host emission-free solar power plants at
their facilities with no upfront capital expenditure", said Tom Werner, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SunPower. "We applaud the County and District for taking the lead with this
showcase installation that demonstrates how solar makes good financial sense for public agencies today."
SunPower to build a 2.2-MW solar power plant in Italy
SunPower also announced that it had signed an agreement with Sunshire, S.r.l., a subsidiary of Api Nova Energia S.r.l. (Rome, Italy), to design and build a 2.2-MW solar electric power
plant in Tolentino, Italy. According to the company's press release dated February 18th, 2009, this project is the first solar power plant agreement that had been acquired by SunPower's
Italian subsidiary, SunPower Italia S.r.l. (Faenza / Milan, Italy). The project would be the first phase of a planned 7.1-MW development that is expected to be completed within the year
2009. "We are pleased to partner with Api Nova Energia to deliver clean, reliable solar power to the rapidly expanding Italian market", said Luca Bandini, General Manager of SunPower
Italia. Paolo Chiantore, Director of Sunshire, commented: "SunPower's unrivaled expertise and experience in the design and construction of solar power plants, as well as the company's
superior technology, were the primary reasons we chose SunPower as our partner for this important project."
2009-02-25 Courtesy: SunPower Corporation Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Photo credit: SunPower Corporation
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Photovoltaics: Producer First Solar Passes Per Watt Industry Milestone
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First Solar solar modules on a roof in Duisburg.
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First Solar, Inc. (TEMPE, Arizona, USA) on February 24th, 2009 announced it reduced its manufacturing cost for solar (PV) modules in the fourth quarter of 2008 to 98 cents per watt,
breaking the per watt price barrier. "This achievement marks a milestone in the solar industry’s evolution toward providing truly sustainable energy solutions", said Mike
Ahearn, First Solar chief executive officer. "First Solar is proud to be leading the way toward clean, affordable solar electricity as a viable alternative to fossil fuels", Ahearn
added. First Solar began full commercial operation of its initial manufacturing line in late 2004. From 2004 through today, manufacturing capacity has grown 2,500 percent to
more than 500 megawatts (MW) in 2008. On own account First Solar’s annual production capacity will double in 2009 to more than one gigawatt (GW), the equivalent capacity of an
average-sized nuclear power plant. These escalating volumes have been accompanied by a rapid reduction in manufacturing costs. From 2004 through today, First Solar’s manufacturing
costs have declined two-thirds from over per watt to less than per watt. First Solar is confident that further significant cost reductions are possible based on the yet untapped
potential of its technology and manufacturing process.
Pre-funded, end-of-life module collection and recycling program
First Solar is not only committed to making solar power affordable but also to making it environmentally sustainable. The Company takes responsibility for its products throughout their
life cycle, ensuring that First Solar modules have the smallest carbon footprint of any current photovoltaic (PV) technology, the company emphasizes in its press release. First Solar is
proud to have the industry’s first and only comprehensive pre-funded, end-of-life module collection and recycling program, recycling more than 90 percent of each collected module
into new products.
Forward-looking government programs allowed for capacity expansion to bring costs down
Ahearn expressed thanks to governments in Germany and other countries for making today’s milestone possible. "Without forward-looking government programs supporting solar
electricity, we would not have been able to invest in the capacity expansion which gives us the scale to bring costs down", he said. "First Solar’s ongoing focus on cost reduction
enables continued growth even as subsidies decline. In the meantime, those initial investments are paying off in a cleaner environment and in the creation of thousands of jobs with a
clear future."
An alternative to traditional fossil fuels an a meaningful contribution in addressing climate change
"This represents a major milestone for the solar industry", said Ken Zweibel, an industry veteran currently serving as Director of the Institute for the Analysis of Solar Energy at The
George Washington University and former Program Leader for the Thin Film Partnership Program at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo. "In order to address climate
change in a meaningful way, we need energy technologies that are affordable, scalable and have a low environmental impact on a life-cycle basis. With this announcement, First Solar
continues to demonstrate the ability of thin film PV technology to provide an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and for solar power to provide a meaningful contribution in
addressing climate change."
PV power plants operating with no water, air emissions or waste stream
First Solar manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology and provides comprehensive PV solutions that significantly reduce solar electricity costs. By enabling
clean, renewable electricity at competitive prices, First Solar provides an economic and environmentally responsible alternative to existing peaking fossil-fuel electric generation.
First Solar's PV power plants operate with no water, air emissions or waste stream. First Solar set the benchmark for environmentally responsible product life cycle management by
introducing the industry's first comprehensive collection and recycling program for solar modules. 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.
2009-02-25 Courtesy: First Solar, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: First Solar; SF Umwelttechnik GmbH
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PV producer Q-Cells SE publishes preliminary figures for fiscal 2008: Sales grew by 46 % to EUR 1,251.3 million
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Q-Cells Headquarter in Bitterfeld-Wolfen.
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Q-Cells SE (Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany) has published the preliminary figures for fiscal 2008. In the past year, production of crystalline solar cells was increased to 570.4 Megawatt
peak (MWp) (same period in the previous year: 389.2 MWp) and consequently by 47 % compared with 2007. Production by all the Group’s investments in thin-film technologies totaled
15.4 MWp, with Q-Cells’ fully consolidated companies contributing approx. 4 MWp to this figure. As a result, the Group’s total production stood at around 574 MWp. In 2008,
sales increased by 46 % to EUR 1,251.3 million (previous year: EUR 858.9 million), Q-Cells International’s project business contributed EUR 91.9 million to this figure (2007: EUR
13.5 million). In the fourth quarter, Group sales therefore amounted to EUR 319.4 million, which equates to an increase of 13% compared with the same quarter in the previous
year.
Targets for operating business were met
In 2008, earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) amounted to EUR 205.1 million in total (2007: EUR 197.0 million). Without taking into account the considerably increased start-up
costs for the (fully consolidated) new technologies, Q-Cells achieved an EBIT of EUR 224.4 million in its core business (including the one-off effect of the ramp-up costs for the
factory in Malaysia) and consequently an EBIT margin of 17%. Operating income in the fourth quarter, which was heavily influenced by the sales crisis at the year end, therefore stood at
EUR 32.2 million for the Group and EUR 35.3 million for the core business, Q-Cells emphasizes in the press release. This meant that the targets for operating business, which were
revised in December last year, were met.
Production volume of between 800 MWp and 1 GWp still expected
Net income in 2008 rose to ca. EUR 190.5 million and is consequently some 28% up on the figure for the previous year (EUR 148.4 million). Q-Cells International’s project business
accounted for a positive contribution to Group income of EUR 6.4 million in the first full business year. Excluding the profit contribution from the stake in Renewable Energy
Corporation ASA (REC), Q-Cells’ net income for the year stood at EUR 140.2 million (2007: EUR 127.1 million). For the current year, Q-Cells SE continues to expect production
volume in the Group of between 800 MWp and 1 GWp. Including the contribution to sales by Q-Cells International’s rapidly expanding project business, which has projects between 100
and 200 MWp in the planning stage, the Group is aiming to achieve sales of between EUR 1.7 and 2.1 billion (previous target EUR 1.75 to 2.25 billion).
New member appointed to the Executive Board
In view of the company’s development as well as the continuing globalisation and differentiation of the photovoltaic market, the existing Executive Board will be supplemented by
an additional member. With effect from 1 April the Supervisory Board of Q-Cells has appointed Dr. Marko Schulz as fifth member of the Executive Board with responsibility for "Sales
& Systems". The 44 year old, who among other things spent 13 years playing a leading role in projects in the energy and public sectors at McKinsey, has been responsible for the
Group’s project business as CEO of Q-Cells International since July 2007. A presentation on the 2008 preliminary figures can be downloaded from the Investor Relations section of
the Q-Cells SE’s website.
2009-02-24 Courtesy: Q-Cells SE Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Q-Cells SE
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PV producer ersol: profitable growth in 2008
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ersol CEO Holger von Hebel: Ambitious plans
with new majority shareholder Bosch.
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ersol Solar Energy AG (ersol, Erfurt, Germany ), a company of the Bosch Group, looks back on a successful 2008: consolidated revenue almost doubled in comparison with 2007, climbing
93.3 percent from € 160.2 million to € 309.6 million, ersol announces in a press relase. This growth in revenue is mainly attributable to the start-up of long-term supply
agreements. Sales were driven upward by an increase in cell production to 123 MWp (2007: 53 MWp output, 2006: 40 MWp output) and the start of thin-film module production with an output
of 20 MWp. The delays in customer projects in the third and fourth quarters of 2008, which were brought about by the financial market crisis, led to a slightly weaker sales
trend for thin-film modules in the second half of the year. Overall, however, the sales trend for the Group was extremely positive, the company emphasizes.
Operating result increased 216.4 percent; earnings before taxes quintupled
The operating result also increased more than threefold in 2008: in 2007 the operating result (EBIT) stood at € 22.3 million, but reached € 70.7 million in the year under
review - an increase of 216.4 percent. Margin was 22.8 percent (2007: 13.9 percent), thus far exceeding the strategic target of 20.0 percent. The development of the financial result was
also positive, with. "2008 was a very good year for ersol, in which we achieved the anticipated jump in sales and earnings. We shall continue to pursue ambitious goals in future, too,
together with our new majority shareholder, Bosch," says Holger von Hebel, CEO of ersol Solar Energy AG, explains the preliminary business figures of the Thuringian photovoltaic
company.
"Old vitality" of the PV market expexted at the latest by 2010
Due to the financial market crisis, ersol anticipates a temporary slowdown in the momentum of growth on the supply and demand side. ersol expects a return to the "old vitality" by 2010
at the latest. Long term, renewable energies will definitely play a strong role, with photovoltaics having a firm place. In terms of revenue for 2009: the Company is predicting an
output of around 180 MWp solar cells and around 30 MWp in the thin-film segment, despite the current difficulties on the market. Combined with the other areas of the Company, ersol
anticipates revenue of more than € 420 million. Revenue of more than € 700 million is forecast for 2010 with the start-up of new solar cell production capacities. Due to the
significant preproduction costs for the further expansion and the growing price pressure on the market, EBIT is expected to increase moderately to between € 80 and 90 million in
2009.
Ambitious growth plans until 2012
ersol continues to have its sights set on growth from 2009 to 2012. "Together with Bosch we plan to expand crystalline production capacities to 520 MWp by the end of 2010, and to around
630 MWp by the end of 2012. Our second technology segment, thin-film modules, will also continue to develop. We also intend to expand capacities here by the end of 2012 - depending on
the achievement of milestones - to around 200 MWp," says von Hebel of the ersol Group's future plans. Solar cell production capacities and a plant for crystalline modules are to be
constructed - subject to approval of the EU subsidies - on the site of Cell Fab 2 in Arnstadt. ersol plans to invest about € 530 million in the expansion of the crystalline segment
until 2012. EU approval has now been granted for subsidies to extend the Erfurt site for the expansion of thin-film production capacities.
Holger von Hebel: More than 60 percent of ersol's production output until 2012 already sold
"In 2008 we welcomed ersol's 1,000th employee. By 2010 our payroll will have grown to more than 2,000. We will achieve this, in spite of intense competition for qualified employees,"
says an optimistic von Hebel. In order to safeguard this future scenario, ersol again concluded new longterm supply agreements in 2008, which will ensure ersol continued security of
supply. On the customer side, ersol is banking on a long-term order structure: in 2008, therefore, contracts were concluded with five long-term customers. As of 31 December 2008 the
ersol Group's orders on hand for solar cells and thin-film modules amounted to around € 4 billion, compared with around € 3 billion in the previous year. "The conclusion of
these customer contracts means that we have already sold more than 60 percent of our production output until 2012," concludes Holger von Hebel.
ersol AG will publish its complete annual financial statements for 2008 on 31 March 2009, as planned.
2009-02-24 Courtesy: ersol Solar Energy AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ersol Solar Energy AG
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German PV producer SOLON SE increases revenues to more than EUR 800 Million
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PV plant with technology by SOLON.
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SOLON SE (Berlin, Germany), one of the largest solar module manufacturers in Europe and a leading supplier of photovoltaic systems for large-scale solar power plants, presented its
preliminary figures for fiscal year 2008 on February 24th, 2009. The figures show that the company was again one of the fastest growing solar companies in Germany last year, SOLON
emphasizes in the press release. SOLON increased production volume by 49 % to 176 MWp (2007: 118 MWp). Group revenues increased by 62 % to EUR 815 million (2007: EUR503.1 million).
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) rose by 70 % to EUR 60 million (2007: EUR 35.2 million). Net income after minority interests rose by 50 % to EUR 32 million (2007: EUR
21.3 million). Earnings per share improved to EUR 2.55 (2007: EUR 2.07).
Management to provide a specific forecast for fiscal year 2009 during the course of the year
The SOLON Group currently has five production sites in Germany, Austria, Italy and the U.S. The production capacity of these sites due to the company was expanded to 450 MWp in 2008.
The greatest expansion was at the Greifswald, Germany and Carmignano, Italy locations. The number of employees at all locations increased throughout the year to 886. "The company sees
2009 and the following fiscal years as having the potential for further growth. However, because of the difficult economic situation and the development of key markets (U.S., Southern
Europe), which cannot yet be reliably estimated, the visibility for the current year continues to be limited", SOLON emphasizes. For that reason, the Management Board considers it
reasonable not to provide a specific forecast for fiscal year 2009 until during the course of the year.
The complete 2008 annual report of SOLON SE will be published on April 2, 2009 and will then be available for download.
2009-02-24 Courtesy: SOLON SE Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SOLON SE
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Applied Material's executive team demonstrates confidence at annual Analyst Day
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Applied's "SunFab": New dimensions
in PV thin film production.
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Applied Materials Inc. (Santa Clara, California) on February 18th, 2009 held its annual financial analyst day in New York City. Applied's executive team discussed the company's plans
for preserving its strong financial position in the current economic crisis, while investing in R&D to extend its leadership role in crystalline silicon, thin-film solar and other
energy and environmental products. "By proactively addressing the challenges of the economic crisis and industry downturn while maintaining our investments in the future,
Applied is demonstrating that we are built to last and built to win", stated Mike Splinter, president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "We have a strong balance sheet, great products
and technologies, and a unique ability to deliver innovations that enable customers to manufacture their products on a global industrial scale. These strengths are positioning Applied
as a new leader in solar, one of the most exciting areas in business today."
VLSI Research sees Applied as largest supplier of photovoltaic cell manufacturing equipment in 2008
According to the press release, VLSI Research Inc. (Santa Clara, California), a provider of market research and economic analysis on the technical, business, and economic aspects of the
high technology chip making industry, had named Applied Materials as the world's largest supplier of photovoltaic (PV) cell manufacturing equipment in 2008. Applied had entered the
market in 2006. Mark Pinto, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) and general manager of the Energy and Environmental Solutions Group at Applied Materials, said: "Applied is driving down the
cost of photovoltaics to the levels necessary for adoption in large-scale solar farm applications. Applied intends to enable utilities to deploy green solar power at or below the cost
of alternatives." Pinto explained that scaling solar was the real secret to driving the cost of solar-produced electricity to price parity with fossil fuels.
Applied's proprietary SunFab thin-film panels successful in 2008
"With more than 100,000 SunFab thin-film panels produced to date, our SunFab ramp continues at tremendous speed, with three SunFab customers in volume production today, 14 lines under
construction and 8 of those lines already producing panels", said Randhir Thakur, general manager of the SunFab Thin Film Solar and Display Business Group. "We have already achieved
important panel certifications and we have moved rapidly down the learning curve, shortening our cycle times and improving productivity." Manfred Kerschbaum, General Manager of Applied
Global Services, added: "In these challenging times, service is an important way for us to help our customers as they look for ways to save money in their fabs and increase
productivity. Our service opportunity is expanding, as customers in semiconductor, flat panel and solar look to us for our expertise and wide range of products and services."
2009-02-23 Courtesy: Applied Materials Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Applied Materials Inc.
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Konarka secures million loan for PV manufacturing and job creation in Massachusetts
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Photovoltaic thim flim "Power Plastic"
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Konarka Technologies, Inc. (Lowell, Massachusetts), an innovator in photovoltaics (PV) development and commercialization of "Power Plastic" a material that converts light to energy,
on February 18th, 2009 announced the company had received a million financing in connection with its recently opened production facility in New Bedford. According to the press
release, the long-term loan comes from both the "Emerging Technology Fund" (ETF) of the Massachusetts Development Finance Agency (Boston, Massachusetts) and the Massachusetts Renewable
Energy Trust's (Westborough, Massachusetts) "Business Expansion Initiative" (BEI). With the opening of its manufacturing plant in New Bedford in October 2008, Konarka had
further expanded its presence in Massachusetts. It had retrofitted Polaroid's former advanced technology development and large-scale manufacturing facility to develop and commercialize
Power Plastic. "This financing further demonstrates the State's commitment toward broad-scale solar adoption and green job creation in the area of clean energy", commented Howard Berke,
executive chairman and co-founder of Konarka. "We appreciate the continued support from the collaborative effort of the Renewable Energy Trust and the Massachusetts Development Finance
Agency, as we utilize the funds for manufacturing plant and equipment capacity expansion."
Ground-breaking discoveries enable the use of low-cost plastic substrate films for production of solar electricity
The Governor of Massachusetts, Deval Patrick, said: "With our vast array of technology expertise and resources, Massachusetts has the capability to become a global center for
alternative and renewable energy, and Konarka is helping to solidify our commitment to a clean energy future. I am delighted Konarka is bringing more jobs to the Commonwealth,
especially in the area of renewable energy." Konarka's advanced photovoltaic technology had started with the work of the late Dr. Sukant Tripathy and Dr. Alan Heeger, Konarka's chief
scientist who had been awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 2000. The ground-breaking discoveries by both founding scientists led to Konarka's underlying technology leadership with a
broad intellectual property (IP) portfolio of over 300 patents, including a manufacturing process at relatively low temperatures, which enables the use of low-cost plastic substrate
films. As a result of these pioneering innovations, the company says it had secured over 150 million USD from leading strategic corporate investors, venture capital and private equity
funds globally, as well as 20 million USD in government agency research grants from the U.S. and Europe.
2009-02-23 Courtesy: Konarka Technologies, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Konarka Technologies, Inc.
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Lux Research expects imminent solar market shakeout, but long-term growth for survivors
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LUX Research: Solar supply to overshoot
demand by twofold in 2009 (GW).
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The independent research and consulting company, Lux Research Inc. (Boston, Massachusetts) expects the solar market to be at the leading edge of a massive correction. The latest
report by Lux Research, entitled "Finding the Solar Market's Nadir", projects that the available capacity of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules will measure twice the demand in
2009, while the overall market could shrink from last year's 36 billion US-Dollars (USD) and more than 5.5 gigawatts (GW) to 29 billion USD and 5.3 GW this year; the company announced
in a press release. The report also addresses the question that suppliers, manufacturers and investors are asking now: Where and how soon can they expect the market to bottom out.
"While oversupply in the solar market has been looming for some time, the correction has been more aggressive due to the economic crisis", said the report's lead author Ted
Sullivan, Senior Analyst at Lux Research. "In order to reduce inventories, suppliers will have slashed their cell and module prices by 25 percent or more. While this spells a shakeout
in the near term, the price reductions will push solar closer to grid parity and prime the market for recovery and growth."
Solar cell and module oversupply to possibly cause numerous company closures
In preparing the current report, Lux Research announced that it had updated the market size and demand forecast made in its September 2008 report, and that it had matched the revised
demand forecast with updated capacity projections from a variety of companies. These included raw materials suppliers, solar cell and module manufacturers, high-concentrating PV
developers, thin-film silicon producers, cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film module manufacturers, copper indium (gallium) diselenide (CIGS/CIS) developers and solar thermal providers.
One of the key findings of the report is that Lux Research expects cell and module capacity to overshoot demand by twofold in 2009 to reach 10.4 GW, precipitating a shakeout that will
eliminate all but the top players. In addition to that, Lux Research expects that the availability of silicon will become increasingly irrelevant, as module players will seek to cut
their inventories. However, the resulting price reductions are expected to flatten out by 2011, bringing solar closer to grid parity and enabling the market to grow up to 70 billion USD
and across 18.5 GW in 2013, according to the projections.
Solar thin-film technologies likely to grow aggressively - U.S. market heavily depending on the government stimulus package
Lux Research reports that crystalline silicon will continue to dominate the market in 2009, due to this technology's relatively easy financial feasibility. However, it is expected that
competing thin-film technologies, including amorphous silicon and CdTe, will continue to grow aggressively. The CIGS-technology may also gain overall, despite expectations of widespread
company failures. As the Spanish market dwindles, Lux Research expects Germany to become Europe's buyer of last resort. The U.S. market growth, meanwhile, will depend heavily on the
government stimulus package just signed. "Last year, we successfully predicted that an oversupply of solar modules and dwindling project financing would lead to a shakeout," said
Sullivan. "Now we're projecting that in coming years the decrease in solar module prices will begin to taper off and that demand will pick back up, setting the stage for even broader
adoption." The latest market study is part of Lux Research's "Solar Intelligence Service" which provides clients with continuous research on solar industry market trends and forecasts,
ongoing technology scouting reports and on-demand information from Lux Research analysts.
2009-02-22 Courtesy: Lux Research Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: LUX Research "Finding the Solar Market's Nadir"
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Samsung introduces solar powered full-touch mobile phone
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Solar powered full-touch
screen phone "Blue Earth".
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Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies, unveiled a solar powered full-touch screen
phone named "Blue Earth" at the Mobile World Congress 2009, alongside Samsung’s vision for environmental sustainability. Under the slogan: "The Blue Earth Dream: Eco-living with
Samsung mobile", Samsung reinforced its commitment to protect the environment through the design of eco-friendly products and a programme of activities for its customers, the company
emphasizes in a press release. Designed to symbolize a flat and well rounded shiny pebble, Blue Earth due to the producer is the first solar powered full-touch screen phone. By charging
with the photovoltaic solar panel located on the back of the phone, users can generate enough electronic power to call anytime anywhere, Samsung accentuates. Blue Earth is
made from recycled plastic called PCM, which is extracted from water bottles, helping to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions in the manufacturing process. The device, including
charger, is free from harmful substances such as Brominated Flame Retardants, Beryllium and Phthalate, Samsung emphasizes. "The latest in a series of eco-friendly products, Blue Earth
comes with a unique user interface which is designed to draw attention to preserving our fragile environment."
"eco walk" calculates how much CO2 emissions have been reduced
Simple to set screen brightness, backlight duration and Bluetooth to an energy-efficient mode, this new user interface allows the user to be energy-efficient with just one click of "Eco
mode", the company reports in the press release. Through the "eco walk" function the user can count their steps with an in-built pedometer, calculating how much CO2 emissions have been
reduced by walking as opposed to motor transport. This function allows the user to calculate the value of this footprint through the number of trees that have been saved. According to
the press release the packaging for Blue Earth is designed to be both small and light, made from recycled paper, and comes with a 5 star energy efficient charger which uses standby
power lower than 0.03W.
Samsung wants to achieve the highest ecostatus with its customers and business partners
As part of the Voluntary Agreement of the European Commission's IPP (Integrated Product Policy) pilot program, Samsung has agreed to start using rating on energy consumption on the
no-load mode of the mobile device charger, the company reports in the press release. "Samsung's 'The Blue Earth Dream' demonstrates our small but meaningful commitments for the future
and our environment", said JK Shin, Executive Vice President and Head of Mobile Communication Division of Samsung Electronics. "We are committed to achieving the highest ecostatus with
our customers and business partners by providing the best eco-products and promoting eco-activities."
2009-02-22 Courtesy: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
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Texas: Utility Oncor launches solar photovoltaic incentive
The regulated utility Oncor Electric Delivery Company, LLC (Dallas, Texas) on February 16th, 2009 announced the official launch of its first solar power initiative dubbed "Take A
Load Off, TexasSM Solar Photovoltaic Incentive Program". According to the company's press release, it was designed to encourage the expansion of solar energy in Texas, create new jobs
for experienced installation experts and make solar energy systems more accessible. Oncor’s Solar PV Program offers cash incentives to qualified homeowners, businesses and
governments for the financing of solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems. Oncor expects to install about 1,400 new solar systems through this million, four-year program.
According to the press release, only homes, businesses and government buildings served by Oncor are eligible for the incentive program. "The Take A Load Off, TexasSM, Solar PV Incentive
Program is an exciting and innovative project, the first of its kind for Oncor. With so much interest in the solar power industry at the state and national level, Oncor's Solar PV
Program is the right idea at the right time", said Michael Stockard, Oncor's Director of Energy Efficiency Programs.
Solar incentive program reimbursed on a per-watt basis
Under the programs premises, Oncor will pay an incentive of .46 per watt installed direct current (DC) capacity up to a maximum of ,600 for each residential PV system and up to
6,000 for all other installations. Most residential solar electric projects range from one to ten kilowatts (kW) capacity, the press release states, while business and government
installations may receive incentives for projects up to 100 kW capacity. Oncor may also consider larger installations, the company emphasizes. Oncor's Solar PV Program is one of 12 new
programs Oncor plans to offer this year to promote renewable energy and encourage energy efficiency. "Oncor is committed to helping consumers find creative ways to save energy, protect
the environment and reduce emissions", Stockard said. "The Solar PV Program will help consumers understand the benefits of installing and operating a solar PV system." In November 2008,
the Texas Renewable Energy Industries Association (TREIA; Austin, Texas) had honored Oncor for its leadership in developing the Solar PV Program for the Texas market.
2009-02-21 Courtesy: Oncor Electric Delivery Company, LLC Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Oncor Electric Delivery Company, LLC
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JA Solar announces update on strategic alliance with BP Solar and signs 175 MW supply agreement
JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. (Shanghai, China), a manufacturer of high-performance solar products, on February 12th, 2009 announced that it had signed a supply agreement with BP Solar
International, Inc. (Frederick, Maryland). According to the press release, this was pursuant to the broadening of the strategic cooperation with BP Alternative Energy Holdings Limited,
announced in November 2008. Under the terms of this new agreement, JA Solar will supply monocrystalline and multicrystalline solar photovoltaic (PV) cells to BP Solar in 2009 with an
initial volume of 175 megawatts (MW). The deal has the potential to be expanded to a delivery volume of 360 MW, JA Solar announces. JA Solar is already delivering products to BP under
existing supply agreements. "We are very pleased to extend our relationship with BP Solar into 2009 and beyond", said Samuel Yang, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of JA
Solar.
"JA Solar will leverage its supply chain relationships and manufacturing expertise to help BP Solar grow their business and support their strong market position. With BP Solar's diverse
customer portfolio, strong brand, and sales and marketing capabilities in key solar end markets, we believe our alliance will build on each other's strengths and allow market share gain
for both companies. We believe this extended agreement with BP Solar will positively affect our business in 2009 and in years to come", Yang concluded.
2009-02-21 Courtesy: JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: JA Solar Holdings Co., Ltd.
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New technology for splitting glass and other non-metallic brittle materials for the solar industry
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Thin-film laser scribing system "Fantom G8T".
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Advanced Solar Photonics (ASP), an American developer of laser equipment for solar panel processing, thin-film solar cells, and commercial solar products has announced its new
product called Zero Width Laser Cutting Technology (ZWLCT) in a press release. According to company this process is a non-contact method which splits glass and other non-metallic
brittle materials on the molecular level with high speed, no material loss, and no chips or other debris associated with conventional scribe and break technology. Precisely
cutting glass and other substrates has always been a problem for the solar industry, the company emphasizes in the press release. For years now, there have been two major cutting
methods: mechanical scribing or sawing and laser cutting. The explosive rise of the photovoltaic industry has put new demands on these existing cutting technologies. ASP utilizes ZWLCT
in its Fantom G8T, a thin-film laser scribing system.
"Zero Width Laser Cutting Technology can be used for precise glass separation at production speeds not previously possible and with edge characteristics not attainable by any other
process to date. The processed glass is four to five times mechanically stronger and has defect free edges without additional edge processing", said Edgardo Rodriguez, Vice President of
sales for Advanced Solar Photonics. "Using this patented method aids the glass in withstanding extreme day/night temperature changes in the harsh desert environments by maintaining the
integrity of the glass, thus strengthening it and ensuring long term stability."
According to the press release Zero Width Laser Cutting Technology produces the maximum MicroCrack depth in the subsurface layer of the glass and not thermal-fracturing of the glass.
"After performing this application, the human eye is unable to see any change in the properties of the glass; however, when applying a small amount of pressure, the glass will split
along the scribe line. Following the split, the glass has no particular damage and the highest edge quality which one can safely run their finger over requiring no further processing
making grinding and cleaning lines unnecessary", the company reports in the press release.
2009-02-20 Courtesy: Advanced Solar Photonics Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Advanced Solar Photonics
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T-Solar launches volume production of world’s largest solar panels on Applied Materials’ SunFab thin film line
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Silicon deposit equipment at T-Solar’s
production line.
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T-Solar Global S.A. (Orense, Spain) on February 18th, 2009 announced that it has begun volume production of the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) modules using a "SunFab"
thin film line supplied by Applied Materials, Inc. The solar panels, sized at 5.7m2, are ideally suited for large scale solar farm applications where installation costs can be reduced
by about 20 % over smaller scale panels, Applied Materials emphasizes in a press release. The SunFab line and modules produced by T-Solar have been awarded Intercert Certification,
verifying achievement of all manufacturing, module efficiency and yield specifications. "Our fully certified, higher-value solar panels will provide us with a significant
opportunity to serve the expanding European market for large commercial buildings and solar farm applications", said Juan Laso, general manager of T-Solar and president of the
Photovoltaic Enterprise Association (AEF). "We’ve invested in what we believe is the best technology and equipment to manufacture solar panels that will allow us to continuously
drive down the cost of solar energy generation."
Annually modules with a total of 45 megawatts or 700,000m2
T-Solar is expected to annually produce 700,000m2 of PV panels with the potential to generate up to 45 megawatts equivalent module production per year with the SunFab line. T-Solar
plans to eventually expand the line by 40% and expects to gain further production efficiencies and reduced material costs. T-Solar and Applied Materials have also entered into a
multiyear service agreement that guarantees fixed maintenance costs and is aimed at driving constant improvement in line output. The "SunFab Performance Service" program is designed to
foster a strong, long-term alliance between the companies, who are both committed to continuously improving factory uptime, product quality and yield.
Collaborative work to unleash the power of thin film PV technology
"We are pleased to be able to work with T-Solar to enable their success", said Dr. Randhir Thakur, senior vice president and general manager, SunFab thin film solar and display business
group at Applied Materials. "Our collaborative work on this line is yet another step toward unleashing the power of thin film PV technology to dramatically reduce the cost of solar
energy." T-Solar’s SunFab line will also receive ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and EMAS certification for quality management and environmental production management, and meets OSHA’s
European safety and health standards, Applied Materials announces in the press release. In addition, T-Solar is a member of PV Cycle, the European association committed to PV waste
management and recycling.
2009-02-20 Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: T-Solar Group
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Xantrex to supply solar inverters for grid tied PV systems to BP Solar
Xantrex Technology Inc. (Vancouver, Canada), a subsidiary of Schneider Electric (Ratingen, Germany), on February 17th, 2009, announced that it had signed a supply agreement with BP
Solar (Frederick, Maryland), one of the world’s leading solar companies. Under the terms of the agreement, Xantrex will supply residential grid tie (GT) solar power inverters to
BP Solar for use in its complete solar package solutions targeted to an extensive network of dealers throughout North America. Xantrex inverters convert direct current (DC) collected by
solar photovoltaic (PV) modules into alternating current (AC) for feeding it into the electric grid. According to the press release, BP Solar had selected Xantrex inverters over
competing products on the market after extensive research and evaluations. "BP Solar's commitment to use Xantrex GT inverters in its complete residential packages increases
our influence in the solar market", said Ted Campbell, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Xantrex.
A network of specially trained PV installers
"We are optimistic that this alliance could also grow to include our off grid and commercial inverters." Xantrex is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with facilities in the United
States, Germany and Spain, and a joint venture in China. BP Solar 'Home Solutions' systems feature BP Solar's solar PV roof systems with Xantrex GT solar inverters. According to the
press release, the systems are installed by a network of specially trained, BP Solar-certified installers. "We are confident that Xantrex inverters will match the high standards of our
solar solutions", said Bill Poulin, Director of Products and Services at BP Solar. "This strategic supply agreement is the result of Xantrex’s proven product quality and
dedication to long term product improvements."
2009-02-19 Courtesy: Xantrex Technology Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Xantrex Technology Inc.
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SANYO to build new HIT solar cell production facilities at Nishikinohama factory
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PV system "Solar Ark" at the SANYO
production plant in Anpachi (Japan).
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SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (SANYO; Tokyo) on February 16th, 2009 announced that it will increase production capacity for HIT solar cells by building new production facilities inside
the grounds of its Nishikinohama Factory (Kaizuka City, Osaka), already a production base for SANYO's proprietary HIT solar cells, to meet active demand for solar power generation
equipment around the world. The new building construction will begin on February 17th, and is expected to reach completion by October 2009. While reviewing the market conditions,
production is expected to start immediately to be better able to respond to market demands, and thereafter considered with a view to increase the facilities' productivity as necessary,
the company reports in a press release. Currently, production for SANYO's world-recognized HIT solar cells is performed at the Nishikinohama Factory as well as the Shimane
Plant, Shimane SANYO Electric (Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture), with a combined production capacity total of 340 MW. While augmenting the Nishikinohama Factory, the overall production
capacity will also be increased by adding production equipment to the existing Shimane Plant with the goal of reaching around 600 MW by the end of FY2010 for HIT Solar Cell production
capacity.
Subsidies in Japan, EUROPE and America indicating mid- to long-term growth markets
With the re-emergence of the "Residential Solar Power Generation System Subsidy" in Japan, the Japanese market is expected to grow, SANYO emphasizes. Also, with government measures
being implemented in the various countries of Europe and America, there are proactive investments and efforts to install solar power generation systems, indicating that these will
become mid- to long-term growth markets. SANYO, with its proprietary HIT solar cells and panels, plans to continue to grow its solar business, aiming to reach a production scale of
approximately 2 GW for HIT solar cells by 2020. For thin-film solar cells, SANYO will work with Nippon Oil Corporation through the joint venture company, SANYO ENEOS Solar Co., Ltd., as
announced on January 23rd this year, to expand this segment of the solar market.
2009-02-18 Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
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New Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy in Bremerhaven
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Test of rotor blades of wind energy turbines.
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The time for wind energy has come. According to a European Council decision in December 2008 20 percent of the energy consumed in the EU is to be covered by renewable energy by the
year 2020. Wind energy has the greatest potential for rapid renewable energy expansion. The new Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy and Energy System Technology IWES provides research
and development for wind energy industry - from material development to integration into the power grid. The development of wind energy utilization will primarily take place offshore.
This is why many system manufacturers have moved their production to the coast. The IWES headquarters is located in Bremerhaven, close to the manufacturers. During the year 2009, the
Institute for Solar Energy Supply Technology ISET, an association at the University of Kassel specializing in developing power grids for renewable sources, will be integrated into the
IWES. Like all Fraunhofer institutes, the new one will also work closely with universities: in addition to its close ties to the University of Kassel, two Fraunhofer project
groups will be set up, one at the University of Hannover and one at the University of Oldenburg. The University of Bremen is also cooperating with the IWES.
Support by federal states and federal ministry for the environment, nature conservation and nuclear safety
In keeping with the key significance of wind energy, both the federal government and the federal states that are homes to the Institute are strongly committed to developing the IWES.
The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Land of Bremen have already provided institutional funding to the predecessor of the IWES, the Fraunhofer Center for Wind
Energy and Maritime Technologies CWMT; this support includes construction of research facilities totaling 12.8 million euros. The federal ministry for the environment, nature
conservation and nuclear safety BMU and the Land of Bremen are currently providing funds of 12.6 million Euros for the construction of the rotor blade competence center as a part of the
IWES. The BMU has furthermore promised the IWES project funds of 25 million Euros in the years 2009 through 2013. The Bremen Senate is providing 10 million Euros in aid for further
expansion of the IWES in Bremerhaven in the years through 2014. The Land of Niedersachsen is supporting not only the Fraunhofer project groups, but also the cooperating universities in
Hannover and Oldenburg, likewise with funds in the tens of millions of Euros. Hessen is funding the transition of the Kassel ISET into the IWES with 10.5 million Euros, and also wants
to share in the costs of new construction in Kassel for the medium term.
Total global wind energy sales in 2007 amounted to 15.4 billion Euros
The human race's growing energy needs are one of the greatest challenges today: there is a demand for concepts for safely and economically supplying energy that is friendly to the
environment and the climate. "We are rising to the challenges, developing wind power systems in more than 5 MW power class of for rough off-shore use, working on rugged power grids and
much more. What we achieve today in research can be implemented swiftly and contributes to expanding the leading position of German companies", explains Professor Hans-Jörg Bullinger,
the President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Wind energy is already an economic factor today: total global sales in 2007 amounted to 15.4 billion Euros. German manufacturers and
suppliers, the market leaders, accounted for 37 percent of these sales. Sales of 24 to 30 billion Euros are forecast for 2020 for German companies who develop renewable energy sources.
Assuming that wind power supplies two-thirds of this energy as planned, this means sales of 16 to 20 billion Euros.
One of the largest test setups in the world
"Global competition is intensifying in light of the rapidly growing market; this is forcing manufacturers of wind energy systems to develop innovations continually in order to remain
competitive on the market", adds Dr. Hans-Gerd Busmann, acting director of the IWES in Bremerhaven. "The pressure to innovate is particularly high in the offshore area: the systems must
be planned and constructed in such a way that they withstand wind, weather and waves for years to decades." Manufacturers and operators of wind energy systems find competent contacts at
the IWES: the researchers have already been developing testing methods for wind energy systems for two years: the CWMT, which has merged into the new Fraunhofer Institute IWES, has
specialized in oversized material tests. A building 85 meters long and 25 meters high was constructed so that rotor blades could be tested. Dr. Arno van Wingerde from the IWES stresses,
"Our test setup is one of the largest in the world. Rotor blade manufacturers are showing enormous interest in using the test stand."
"Wind power will supply the lion's share of renewable energy in the coming decades. In combination with the other renewable energies, new storage technologies and intelligent energy
management systems, we will be able to generate a large portion of the required electricity in 40 years. But only if we continue expanding wind power in conjunction with solar energy,
bioenergy and ocean energy", explains Prof. Jürgen Schmid, director of the ISET in Kassel.
In the future, the new Fraunhofer Institute will be home to experts from various disciplines. The engineers in Bremerhaven are contributing their experience in testing and simulation of
materials and components, while the researchers from Kassel are working on electrotechnical issues. One of their special areas is the integration of wind-produced electricity into
public power grids. "The groups complement each other wonderfully", Busmann continues. "Together we can build a competence center that offers all services, from development and
construction of the components through to operating control and safe grid operation.
2009-02-18 Courtesy: Fraunhofer IWES Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Fraunhofer IWES
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Australia: Solar and wind energy feed-in tariff to make Canberra a Solar Capital
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ACT Government announces
new electricity feed-in tariff.
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Simon Corbell, Minister for Energy of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), has released details of Stage 1 of the ACT's electricity Feed-in Tariff Scheme for households and
commercial buildings. According to a press release confirming the scheme will start on March 1st, 2009. At the moment, the proposed scheme is focused on solar and wind technologies, but
the government wants to make sure it can be expanded to include new technologies as they emerge. "Last year the ACT Labor Government introduced the Electricity Feed-in (Renewable Energy
Premium) Act, today I am announcing a series of amendments to the Act to clarify its operation and allow it to commence for households and commercial buildings on March 1st this year",
Simon Corbell said. Unlike other schemes in Australia, the scheme will pay producers for each unit of renewable electricity produced, rather than the excess remaining after the
producer's own consumption has been deducted. "The ACT's Feed-in Tariff is the most generous in the country, the Labor Government is confident that this will lead to a major
uptake in the installation of renewable energy generation on households and commercial buildings", Simon Corbell emphasizes in the press release. "I am pleased to announce that
renewable generators will be paid 50.05 Australian cents (approx 0,26 EUR) per kilowatt hour exclusive of GST. This is 3.88 times the calculated normal cost of electricity."
Feed-in Tariff scheme will be introduced in two stages
The ACT Labor Government has decided to introduce the Feed-in Tariff scheme in 2 stages. Stage 1 will allow house owners and owners of commercial buildings with renewable energy
generation of up to 30kw capacity to be eligible for the tariff. The average size installation for a household is around 1.5 kW. At 30 kW large commercial buildings such as shopping
centres, office complexes and warehouses will also be eligible. Stage 2 will allow the introduction of the tariff for larger scale generation. There is a range of issues that will need
to be considered before stage 2 can commence, the Minister announced. For instance the financial impact on ACT electricity consumers, the appropriate premium price percentage to apply
to different scales of generation and the possible introduction of the whole scheme or annual augmentation.
A key part of ACT’s responding to climate change
"I anticipate that details of stage 2 will be announced in June this year, allowing Stage 2 to start from the original July 1st commencement date outlined in the Act", Simon Corbell
said. "With the introduction of the scheme Canberrans can become more involved in the process of reducing our greenhouse emissions and enable the ACT to become the solar energy capital
of Australia. The ACT Government's climate change strategy, 'Weathering the Change', sets out our vision for responding to climate change, and this proposed feed-in tariff is a key part
of that response."
2009-02-17 Courtesy: Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: ACT Government
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Photovoltaics manufacturer SunPower to sell Renewable Energy Credits to PPL EnergyPlus
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SunPower plant "Johnson & Johnson",
New Jersey; 739 kW.
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SunPower Corp. (San Jose, California), manufacturer of high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) cells, solar panels and solar energy systems, on February 13th, 2009 reported that PPL
EnergyPlus, the energy marketing and trading subsidiary of the PPL Corporation (Allentown, Pennsylvania), had signed an agreement to purchase its New Jersey Solar Renewable Energy
Certificates (NJ SRECs) over a period of ten years. According to the press release, the purchase agreement comes as a direct result of changes to New Jersey's solar power incentive
program. It had transitioned from reliance on state rebates or grants to a market-based system relying primarily on SRECs. Under the terms of the agreement, PPL EnergyPlus will purchase
SunPower's NJ SRECs which will be issued for the power generated at their solar installations. SRECs are tradable certificates representing all the renewable energy benefits
generated from a solar electric system. Each time a solar system generates one megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity, an SREC is issued that can then be sold or traded. SunPower expects to
use the revenue from the sale of the SRECs to finance the construction of approximately 2.5 megawatts (MW) of new solar power projects in New Jersey by 2010.
Renewable energy provisions as the key motivation for SREC purchase agreement
New Jersey is one of the fastest growing solar energy markets in the United States, with more than 3,500 solar power installations representing more than 69 MW of installed capacity.
"Under New Jersey's new program, SREC prices and terms of sale are being determined by the free market," said Tom Leyden, managing director of SunPower's Trenton office. "PPL EnergyPlus
is reducing solar renewable energy portfolio compliance costs and demonstrating good corporate citizenship by entering into this long-term agreement. Although the agreement will only
address a small portion of new solar capacity to be built in New Jersey in the coming years, it is an indication that the SREC market can facilitate the construction of clean, reliable
solar power projects." SunPower has already completed several solar power installations in New Jersey. "Combining the advantages of competitive markets with extended federal incentives
for projects that support renewable energy and energy sustainability, that's a winning formula," said Gene Alessandrini, senior vice president marketing for PPL EnergyPlus. "It's good
business for PPL because it builds our renewable energy portfolio and advances the production of renewable, green energy."
2009-02-17 Courtesy: SunPower Corp. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Johnson & Johnson, New Jersey - 739 kW
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US Solar industry ready to hire and create growth opportunities with Economic Recovery Package
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Solar energy putting Americans back to
work.
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"We applaud Congressional leaders for working swiftly to find a compromise economic recovery bill that can quickly stimulate our failing economy", Rhone Resch, President & CEO of
the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) on February 12th, 2009 stated upon hearing that a bipartisan agreement was reached by Congressional Conferees on the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009. "President Obama has issued bold challenges to America: create jobs immediately and invest in our future. This bill appears to meet both goals", Resch added.
"The solar provisions in the bill will allow us to begin hiring, create growth opportunities for small businesses throughout the country and keep the economic engine going. We expect to
create 67,000 jobs in 2009 alone and a total of 119,000 jobs over the next two years, putting Americans back to work installing solar panels, manufacturing components and constructing
solar power plants", Resch emphasizes.
Grants, streamlined support for financing and investment credits
Due to Resch three provisions in the bill are critical for solar: The Renewable Energy Grant Program offers Dept. of Energy grants equal to 30 percent of the cost of solar projects
started in the next two years, including large-scale utility projects. "This is a critical alternative to solar tax credits that are not functioning as Congress intended in the current
economic climate", Resch explains. The Loan Guarantee Program creates a new, streamlined support for financing of renewable energy systems, including solar energy technology. And the
Manufacturing Investment Credit creates a 30-percent investment tax credit for facilities engaged in the manufacture of renewable energy property or equipment.
Background Materials: Preliminary Overview of Conference Report
on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. (From the Office of Speaker Nancy Pelosi with renewable energy and solar provisions highlighted).
2009-02-16 Courtesy: SEIA Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SEIA
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Southern California Edison and BrightSource Energy Sign World’s Largest Solar Deal (1.3 GW)
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LPT 550 solar thermal technology
by BrightSource.
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Southern California Edison (SCE; Rosemead, California) and BrightSource Energy (Oakland, California) have reached an agreement on a series of contracts for 1,300 megawatts of clean
solar thermal power, enough to serve nearly 845,000 homes, BrightSource reports in a press release. "These contracts represent a significant addition to our renewable portfolio, which
is already the nation’s largest", said Stuart Hemphill, SCE vice president, Renewable and Alternative Power. "This innovative solar technology helps to further our position as the
nation’s largest purchaser of solar energy, as well."
Seven projects totaling 1,300 megawatts
"This landmark agreement illustrates the increasing demand for solar thermal energy as a reliable source of utility-scale renewable power", said John Woolard, CEO of BrightSource
Energy. "We look forward to working with Southern California Edison to provide clean, reliable and cost-competitive solar energy." The agreement, which now requires approval from the
California Public Utilities Commission, calls for a series of seven projects totaling 1,300 megawatts. The first of these solar power plants, sized at 100 megawatts and located in
Ivanpah, Calif., due to BrightSource Energy could be operating in early 2013 and is expected to produce 286,000 megawatt-hours of renewable electricity per year. BrightSource will build
and place in commercial operation each of its plants as quickly as permitting and infrastructure allow. The full 1,300 megawatts of projects will produce 3.7 billion kilowatt-hours of
clean energy and avoid more than two million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually – the equivalent of removing more than 335,000 cars from the road, BrightSource emphasizes
in its press release.
BrightSource Energy’s technology
BrightSource Energy’s proprietary Luz Power Tower 550 (LPT 550) energy system is built on "power tower" technology. The system uses thousands of small mirrors called heliostats to
reflect sunlight onto a boiler atop a tower to produce high temperature steam. The steam is then piped to a conventional turbine which generates electricity. In order to conserve
precious desert water, the LPT 550 system uses air-cooling to convert the steam back into water. The water is then returned to the boiler in an environmentally-friendly closed cycle.
This fully integrated energy system is designed to offer the highest operating efficiencies and lowest capital costs in the industry. For its technological leadership, BrightSource
Energy was recently selected as a 2009 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. The only solar company to win this year’s prestigious award, BrightSource Energy was
recognized for helping global utility and industrial customers reduce their dependence on fossil fuels by providing clean, low-cost and reliable solar energy. "The efficiency
advancements found in the LPT 550 system reflect our technical team’s nearly three decades of experience pioneering solar thermal technology,” said Tom Doyle, senior vice
president of project development for BrightSource Energy. "We have combined this engineering experience with world-class development capabilities to help our customers reduce their
dependence on fossil fuels."
SCE leads the US in renewables
SCE on own account is currently the leading US purchaser of renewable energy and, in 2007, bought more than 80 percent of the solar energy produced in the United States for its
customers. Also in 2007, the utility purchased about 12.5 billion kilowatt-hours of renewable energy, which comprises about 16 percent of SCE’s total energy portfolio. SCE
currently has sufficient contracts in place that, when delivering, will meet 20 percent or more of its customers’ energy needs with renewable energy. SCE also recently signed two
wind-energy contracts. One agreement, with Puget Sound Energy signed in January, calls for 2 billion kilowatt-hours over the next two years. The projects are located in Columbia and
Kittitas counties in Washington state. The other, with AES Mountainview, calls for 66.6 megawatts from a wind farm in the San Gorgonio Pass near Palm Springs. This 10-year contract was
signed in November 2008.
In addition, SCE launched an expanded standard contract program, which is available for all renewable technologies of 20 megawatts or less. This program is designed to help smaller
renewable generators contribute to reaching California’s aggressive renewable energy and environmental goals. This program provides a faster, simpler way for renewable projects
under 20 megawatts to sell their power to utility customers. The current renewables portfolio due to SCE includes: 1,137 megawatts from wind; 906 megawatts from geothermal; 356
megawatts from solar; 185 megawatts from biomass; 332 megawatts from small hydro.
2009-02-16 Courtesy: BrightSource Energy, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: BrightSource Energy, Inc.
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New Jersey: Utility PSE&G proposes 3 million, 120 MW solar energy program
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PSE&G lineman Ryan Lucas adjusts a solar
panel.
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New Jersey's largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G; Newark, New Jersey) on February 10th, 2009 announced that it had
asked regulators to approve a 3-million proposal to bring the benefits of 120 megawatts (MW) of solar power directly to communities and customers throughout its service territory. In
a filing with the state's Board of Public Utilities, PSE&G proposed a program dubbed "Solar 4 All". It is expected to result in savings to municipal and county budgets and designed
to utilize underdeveloped properties for solar generation. According to the press release, PSE&G will invest in, own and operate the grid-connected solar energy systems
and will collaborate with experienced solar developers, installers and manufacturers to develop projects. The initiative is expected to create environmental benefits to New Jersey by
providing carbon-free solar generation to all utility customers.
Program to support state's renewable energy and environmental goals
The initiative is expected to expand New Jersey’s solar infrastructure and to satisfy nearly seven percent of the state’s renewable portfolio standards requirements through
2020. The 120 MW of solar capacity will eliminate annually 1.7 million tons of CO2 emissions, which is the equivalent of removing nearly 310,000 cars from the road for one year. "We
designed our program to ensure that everyone has access to the benefits of solar energy", said Ralph LaRossa, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of PSE&G. "The program
strongly supports New Jersey’s aggressive renewable energy and environmental goals and helps to strengthen the competitive solar industry in the state." If everything works out as
planned, the investment would help New Jersey address an expected shortfall in its current solar energy requirements and could also generate hundreds of green jobs. Each utility
investment is expected to be recovered over 15 to 20 years.
Four-segment program aimed at making solar power available for everyone
PSE&G’s Solar 4 All Program includes four segments. The "Neighborhood Solar" segment will require a 4 million investment and will amount to approximately 40 megawatts (MW)
of solar capacity to be installed on nearly 200,000 utility poles and street lights. A total of 3 million investment will be required for the "Local Government Solar" (43 MW), which
aims at giving public schools and municipalities the opportunity to install solar systems on the roofs of their buildings. The third segment of the program, dubbed "Centralized Solar,"
is expected to amount to 35 MW capacity, requiring an investment of 1 million. It calls for the installation of 25 MW capacity ground- or roof-mounted solar systems on land or
buildings owned by PSE&G, and an additional 10 MW of larger solar energy farms on brownfields, non-profit-owned real estate, and underdeveloped real estate. Finally, the segment
called "HMFA/Affordable Housing Solar" will require up to million investment to fund roof-mounted solar systems to affordable housing communities with a total of 2 MW capacity. Most
of the program's installations will be contracted to solar designers, manufacturers and installers.
2009-02-15 Courtesy: PSE&G Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Mark Lovretin/PSEG
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Thin film photovoltaics: Clear Skies Solar begins preliminary engineering on megawatt solar farm in Cantil, CA
Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (Mineola, New York), provider of turnkey solar electricity installations and renewable energy solutions, on February 4th, 2009 reported that it had initiated
the project engineering on a solar farm to be installed in Cantil, California. The 11 million US-dollar plant with a nominal capacity of 3.2 megawatts (MW) is to be built on 34 acres of
company-owned land, according to the press release. Three months ago, the project had stalled because it had been uncertain whether sufficient funding could be raised. Due in part to
the decline in module prices by as much as 30 percent since that time, the Cantil solar farm is now underway, Clear Skies Solar emphasizes. The groundbreaking is expected during the
third quarter of 2009. "Although this project will be smaller than initially anticipated, the use of thin film technology will offer our investors a substantially higher
return, which investors are now demanding under current economic conditions", said Ezra Green, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of Clear Skies Solar. The improvement of thin
film technologies and the subsequent decrease in thin film module costs were, according to the company, major contributing factors to the economic feasibility of this project.
Proximity to utility substation key advantage of solar farm location
What makes the Cantil solar farm site unique, according to Clear Skies Solar, is its proximity to a utility substation. This happenstance makes the economics of this project feasible,
of which the company expects to see recurring revenue. The solar power plant is to be installed in an undeveloped area of California's desert, where Clear Skies Solar plans to operate
and maintain it for 20 years. "Since this area of the Mojave Desert offers extremely high solar radiation, is not prone to pollution, has minimal rain and has a steady wind factor to
keep the panels cooler, we are expecting the output to be 10 percent higher than estimated on the industry irradiation tracking websites," added Green. "This coupled with our low
installation costs and declining module prices, makes the Cantil, CA project an attractive investment for financers." Clear Skies Solar will announce in the coming weeks which
manufacturer provides the solar panels.
2009-02-13 Courtesy: Clear Skies Solar, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Timex Group dedicates largest ground-mounted solar array in Connecticut
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Solar array near the Timex Middlebury
headquarters.
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On February 5th, 2009 the jewelry- and watchmaker company Timex Group USA (Middlebury, Connecticut) held a dedication ceremony for its recently completed installation of 800 solar
panels outside its Middlebury headquarters. According to the company's press release, it is one of the largest ground-mounted solar electric installations in the state of Connecticut
and maybe of the entire northeastern United States. As part of the .5 million project, 27 rows of solar panels, each with a nominal capacity of 244 kilowatts (kW), had been installed
on the company's property. This photovoltaic (PV) system is designed to generate 285,439 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a year, enough electricity annually to power nearly 32 average Connecticut
homes. The system's output will avoid over 6.6 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over the expected 25-years of operation, according to the press release. This clean
energy project was financed in part through a 0,000 grant from the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) and through tax credits.
Lessening the environmental footprint by converting sunlight into electricity
Timex Group had contracted Solar Works Inc., now Alteris Renewables, Inc. (Wilton, Connecticut), to handle the installation of the solar system. "From our very first meeting with Timex
Group, it has been apparent that the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint", said Ron French, President of Alteris. Attending the dedication event were local, state and
federal politicians, representatives from Alteris Renewables and the CCEF, and Timex Group employees. Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Timex
Group, said the project would enable the headquarters to become more energy efficient and that it was a critical element of the company's worldwide efforts to conserve energy and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions. "Converting sunlight into electricity is an important component of our plan to lessen our environmental footprint", said Hoejsgaard. "Over the 25-year life of
this project, this system is equivalent to avoiding almost 7.3 million miles of driving or planting almost 31,000 trees," he added.
2009-02-12 Courtesy: Timex Group Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Timex Group/Todd Atkinson.
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US-solar industries association calls on US-Congress to include solar policies in economic stimulus package
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Employees of the PV producer First Solar.
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The US Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA, Washington, DC) called on Congress to quickly pass the economic recovery package with key solar provisions that would have an
immediate impact on job creation in America and would keep the solar economic engine humming. "No other industry in America has experienced the type of explosive growth that solar has
in the past three years. We are ready now with an army of workers and warehouses filled with equipment that will put the economy back on track with the right stimulus from Congress,"
said Rhone Resch, president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SEIA. He commended President Obama for recognizing the solar industry as a means to stimulate the economy, by
creating jobs and reinvesting billions in projects across America. "If Congress passes a stimulus bill with the solar policies supported by the industry, we will create more than 67,000
jobs, install a gigawatt of solar power and avoid more than one million tons of carbon emissions in 2009 alone. And we are just getting started as these figures will more than double in
2010," added Resch.
Significant investment in renewable energy sources a key for job creation and economic recovery
SEIA reports that there are 3,400 solar energy companies across the nation. If Congress passes strong solar policies, small businesses would be able to hire workers immediately and
install new solar projects that deliver clean, renewable energy to America’s communities, SEIA argues. "We applaud President Obama and Senate and House leaders for their efforts
to include significant investments in solar and other renewable energy sources as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, but final legislation must reflect the best of both
the House and Senate bills to keep the solar economic engine humming," Resch said. Dan Leary, President and Chief Operating Officer (CEO) of an exemplary small solar business named
Nexamp, confirmed: "Our company grew from 7 to 25 employees last year. A stimulus bill that includes these policy priorities will lead to additional solar energy projects that we are
ready to deliver now and that allow us to create even more jobs."
2009-02-11 Courtesy: SEIA Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: First Solar Inc.
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Gainesville to be first U.S. municipality to introduce solar feed-in-tariff policy
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Gainesville to introduce first solar feed-in-tariff
in the U.S.
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Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU; Gainesville, Florida) on February 6th, 2009 announced that its board of directors, the Gainesville City Commission, had given unanimous approval
to adopt a solar photovoltaic (PV) feed-in-tariff. It will be the first of its kind in the USA and is based on highly successful schemes in Europe, according to the press release. The
feed-in-tariff policy will allow GRU electricity customers to invest in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and sell the generated electricity directly to GRU. Ed Regan, GRU assistant
general manager for strategic planning, had visited Germany to study similar European energy policies prior to proposing the Gainesville program. "The feed-in-tariff is more
attractive to solar investors than traditional solar rebate programs because it guarantees that the utility will buy all of the electricity produced by the PV system at a fixed rate for
20 years. It offers investors a reliable and predictable source of income," Regan said. The Florida Public Service commission is expected to approve of the scheme, in which case GRU
customers will be able to sign up for the feed-in-tariff as of March 1st. Participants signing up during the first two years of the program will be guaranteed a fixed rate of 0.32
US-Dollars per kilowatt hour (kWh) for 20 years. GRU estimates that investors will see a 5-percent return on investment for large-scale projects.
European Photovoltaic Industry Association supports feed in tariffs in the United States
A delegation from the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) visited Gainesville to support the tariff adoption and to promote the use of solar energy in Florida. Several
EPIA members had visited Florida to participate in a conference in Tallahassee to discuss renewable energy policies that increase energy security and job creation. EPIA members
represent 80 percent of the worldwide PV manufacturing industry. Dr. Murray Cameron, Chief Operating Officer (CEO) of Phoenix Solar (Sulzemoos, Germany) and vice president of EPIA said:
"Our goal here is to promote the uptake of solar so that the United States, within three years, becomes the largest market of solar on the planet. In the difficult economic times that
we are going through now, there are few safer havens for a stable return on investment than solar," Cameron added.
2009-02-10 Courtesy: Gainesville Regional Utilities Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: GRU
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Energy policy: San Francisco Mayor Newsom launches Clean Energy Loan program
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Mayor Newsom announced loans for solar
energy systems.
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On February 2nd, 2009, San Francisco's Mayor Gavin Newsom announced an important step in the advancement of the largest local property tax-based loan program focused on greening
local buildings of California’s fourth-largest city. The program, dubbed the San Francisco Clean Energy Loan (CEL) program, is designed to loan money to San Francisco residents
and businesses to install solar energy systems on rooftops and to make energy efficiency upgrades to buildings. The city’s Office of Public Finance is currently seeking a private
sector lender as a partner to fund and implement this energy loan program, which may amount to 20 million US-Dollars. San Francisco at present offers the largest local solar incentives
in the U.S. for residents and businesses through the GoSolarSF program. This local incentive, when paired with the federal tax credit (FTC) and the California Solar
Initiative (CSI) cuts the cost of an average residential solar installation by approximately half, according to mayor Newsom’s press release. Since the inception of GoSolarSF in
July of 2008, monthly solar applications have accordingly spiked in San Francisco by over 300%.
Largest loan program of its kind in the United States to advance solar power and energy efficiency
With the recent tightening of the credit markets, home equity and consumer financial products have become harder to obtain for many people. The CEL program seeks to address this
challenge by attaching loans to the building, rather than the borrower. Residents will repay the loans over 20 years through a special tax on their property tax bills. By providing
greater security for the lenders, the program in turn is expected to allow them to make more loans available, to more people, on more competitive terms. "We need to make renewable
energy and energy efficiency affordable for people of all incomes," said Mayor Newsom. "While our solar incentive program has been dramatically successful in increasing local solar
installations, this low-interest loan program will provide San Francisco homeowners access to the remaining funding they need to make energy improvements to their buildings," Newsom
added.
Low-interest loans to residents and businesses for solar and energy efficiency upgrades
The San Francisco Clean Energy Loan program is designed to complement GoSolarSF by providing borrowing options for residents to cover the remaining cost of their photovoltaic (PV) and
solar thermal installations. It will also be available to help fund urban small scale wind projects and energy efficiency upgrades. San Francisco is working to help residents make
energy upgrades on their buildings to lower utility bills and to advance San Francisco’s renewable energy portfolio. "The climate crisis has brought our country to a crossroads
that requires a far different approach to how we produce and use energy," said Mayor Newsom. "Innovative public/private partnerships, exemplified by this loan program, can help us point
the way toward a cleaner energy future."
2009-02-09 Courtesy: City and County of San Francisco Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: City and County of San Francisco
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AWEA: U.S.-market for wind energy grows by over 8,300 MW in 2008
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U.S. Wind Power Capacity, Annual (blue) and
Cumulative in MW.
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The U.S. wind energy industry shattered all previous records in 2008 by installing 8,358 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
reported on January 28th, 2009. However, the organization warned of an uncertain development in 2009 due to the continuing financial crisis. The massive growth in 2008 swelled the
nation’s total wind power generating capacity by 50 % and channeled an investment of some billion into the economy, positioning wind power as one of the leading sources of new
power generation in the country today along with natural gas, AWEA reports. At year’s end, however, financing for new projects and orders for turbine components slowed to a
trickle and layoffs began to hit the wind turbine manufacturing sector. "Our numbers are both exciting and sobering", said the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AWEA, Denise
Bode. "The U.S. wind energy industry’s performance in 2008 confirms that wind is an economic and job creation dynamo, ready to deliver on the President’s call to double
renewable energy production in three years. At the same time, it is clear that the economic and financial downturn have begun to take a serious toll on new wind development. We are
already seeing layoffs in the area where wind’s promise is greatest for our economy: the wind power manufacturing sector. Quick action in the stimulus bill is vital to restore the
industry’s momentum and create jobs as we help make our country more secure and leave a more stable climate for our children."
Top-five U.S.-states with more than 1,000 MW of installed Wind-Power
The new wind projects completed in 2008 account for about 42 % of the entire new power-producing capacity added nationally last year, according to initial estimates by AWEA. They are
enough to server over two million homes and will avoid nearly 44 million tons of carbon emissions. The amount that the industry brought online in the 4th quarter alone, namely 4,112 MW,
exceeds annual additions for every previous year except 2007. In all, wind energy generating capacity in the U.S. now stands at 25,170 MW, producing enough electricity to power the
equivalent of close to seven million households with a clean, inexhaustible, homegrown source of energy. Iowa, with 2,790 MW installed, surpassed California (2,517 MW) in wind power
generating capacity. The top five states in terms of capacity installed are now: Texas (7,116 MW), Iowa (2,790 MW), California (2,517 MW), Minnesota (1,752 MW) and Washington with 1,375
MW installed capacity. Oregon moved into the club of states with more than 1,000 MW installed wind power. AWEA estimates that about 85,000 people are employed in the wind industry
today, up from 50,000 a year ago, and hold jobs in areas as varied as turbine component manufacturing, construction and installation of wind turbines, wind turbine operations and
maintenance, legal and marketing services, and more.
Turbine manufacturing industry slows due to difficult financing of wind-energy-projects
AWEA expects a significant number of construction jobs to be lost in 2009, if financing for the pipeline of new projects is not quickly restored. But wind power’s recent growth
also accelerated job creation in manufacturing, where the share of manufactured wind turbine components coming from the United States has grown from under 30 % in 2005 to about 50 % in
2008. Wind turbine and turbine component manufacturers announced, added or expanded 70 new facilities in the past two years, thereby creating 13,000 new direct jobs in 2008. However,
because of the recent slowdown in orders, wind turbine and turbine component manufacturers in different parts of the country are beginning to announce layoffs. "The hope is that
provisions such as those included in the House stimulus bill to restore the effectiveness of the tax incentives for renewable energy will quickly become law and provide the capital
needed to continue to build projects", said Bode. She also called for the new Administration and Congress to put in place long-term, supportive renewable energy policies to make the new
clean energy economy a reality.
2009-02-09 Courtesy: AWEA Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: AWEA
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Séchilienne-Sidec inaugurates the largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant in France
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A rooftop photovoltaic power plant
installed by Séchilienne-Sidec
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Séchilienne-Sidec, a French energy producer, which builds and operates thermal, wind and solar power plants in Europe, the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean, has announced in a press
release the inauguration of the largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant in France. The new solar power plant is located in Saint Pierre (Réunion) an island in the Indian Ocean, which
is French territory. Situated on the roofs of the CILAM and SODICO buildings, this new photovoltaic installation, with a capacity of 2 megawatts (MWp), will benefit from the very
favourable meteorological conditions of the island, Séchilienne-Sidec reports in the press release. The plant was fitted and installed by the Réunion-based SCE, Société de
Conversion d’Energie, a 95 % subsidiary of Séchilienne-Sidec Group, which has ensured the exploitation since January 2009. On the technical side, the construction of the 14,815m²
(135 Wp per m²) solar field was made possible thanks to the placement of 9,940 photovoltaic modules and the installation of roughly 80 km of cables, representing a total investment of
11 million euros. According to the press release the installed power output of 2 MWp will enable the plant to produce 2,571 MWh of solar electricity per year, equivalent to the annual
consumption of 1,130 Réunion households, and thus will prevent the emission of 2,150 tons of CO².
This solar power plant complements the existing installations developed since 2007 by SCE in Saint Pierre. The complex is currently the largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant in
France with a total installed power output of 4.4 MWp, which is equivalent to the annual consumption of 2,500 Réunion households and preventing the emission of 4,700 tons of CO².
2009-02-08 Courtesy: Séchilienne-Sidec Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Séchilienne-Sidec
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Michelin to deploy Europe’s largest installation of photovoltaic roof panels
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PV modules on the roof of a Michelin plant
in Hallstadt, Germany.
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According to a press release Michelin will deploy the largest installation of photovoltaic roof panels in Europe at its plant in Cuneo, Italy. More than 147,000 square meters of
solar panels will be installed in the power plant in Italy’s Piemont region. With an annual production of nearly 10 million kWh, the panels will provide solar electricity for
2,000 inhabitants while reducing the amount of CO2 emitted by 1,200 metric tons a year, the company reports in the press release. Every day the Cuneo plant produces some
1,000 metric tons of semi-finished products and 300 metric tons of tires and inner tubes. The photovoltaic power plant is scheduled to be operational in early 2010. It will be developed
and operated by Frey Nouvelles Energies, a French company that produces electrical power from renewable energy sources.
Lowering CO2 emissions is one of Michelin’s major paths
Environmental stewardship is one of Michelin’s core values and an integral component of the Michelin Performance and Responsibility approach, which is the foundation of the
Group’s sustainable development commitment, the company emphasizes in the press release. Lowering CO2 emissions is one of the six major paths that Michelin is pursuing in this
area to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations. The Group’s renewable energy policy has been deployed, with a number of projects already in place. In Germany
photovoltaic panels have already been installed on the roofs of four factories and in the Dundee plant in Scotland, two wind turbines are operational. In Bassens, France, 20% of the
plant’s needs in energy are recovered from the combustion of industrial waste in two nearby incinerators, the company reports in the press release.
2009-02-07 Courtesy: Michelin Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Conergy AG
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International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) founded in Bonn represents more than 2.5 million people
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Founding Conference of IRENA in Bonn.
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The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) truly came into being on January 26th , 2009 at the Founding Conference of IRENA in Bonn. More than 120 government delegations from
across the world attended the conference and a total of 75 nations, a broad cross-section of developing and industrialized countries, signed the Agency’s statute. On January 30th
India decided to join IRENA so meanwhile more than 2.5 million people are being represented by the International Renewable Energy Agency.
Many others expressed their strong commitment to IRENA’s goals and their intention to join in the near future. The conference was chaired by Germany's Federal
Environment Minister, Sigmar Gabriel, and Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul. As Denmark and Spain from the outset had actively
supported the preparation together with Germany, the respective Ministers, Connie Hedegaard (Danish Minister for Climate and Energy) and Miguel Sebastián Gascón (Spanish Minister for
Trade, Industry and Tourism) were elected Vice-Chairs. The founding of IRENA is a milestone on the road towards a future-oriented energy supply. It is a clear sign that the global
energy paradigm is changing and that more and more governments are committed to accelerating that shift.
Egypt to host the next session in June 2009
Among the 75 founding countries are many European countries, including France, Italy and Poland, and many developing nations from Africa, such as Ghana, Nigeria and Uganda, from Asia,
like the Republic of Corea and the Philippines, and from Latin America, including Guatemala, Chile and Argentina. Keeping up the great momentum that had been generated, the Agency began
its work only one day after the Founding Conference, on January 27th , 2009. At the first session of the Preparatory Commission the Signatories adopted criteria and procedures for
selecting IRENA’s interim Director-General and its interim headquarters and invited the members to put forward candidatures by 30th April 2009. They also created the institutional
framework that will allow IRENA to embark on first elements of its working programme. The Preparatory Commission welcomed the invitation of Egypt to host the next session, planned for
June 2009, where decisions will be taken on the Agency’s interim Director-General and interim headquarters.
IRENA focuses exclusively on the issue of renewable energies
The aim of the new Agency is to work throughout the world to close the gap that exists between the enormous potential of renewables and their current relatively low market share in
energy consumption. IRENA is the first international organisation to focus exclusively on the issue of renewable energies, addressing both the industrialized and the developing world.
The main work of IRENA will be to advise its members on creating the right frameworks, building capacity, and improving financing and the transfer of technology and know-how for
renewable energies. IRENA seeks to cooperate closely with other international organisations and institutions active in the field of renewable energy.
2009-02-06 Courtesy: IRENA Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: IRENA
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Photovoltaics: Canadian Solar opens new research center and cooperates with leading R&D organizations
Canadian Solar Inc. (CSI; Toronto, Canada), a vertically integrated manufacturer of solar cells, solar modules and custom-designed solar applications, on February 2nd, 2009 announced
the official opening of its new photovoltaic (PV) cell research center. The purpose of the center is to improve the efficiency and production yield of both regular polysilicon cells and
of the company’s proprietary solar grade "e-cells". CSI reports that it has actively been investigating several high efficiency solar cell structures, including selective emitter,
N-type and back-contact cells. The new research center is located in the company’s solar cell Fab II in Suzhou (China) and is the only provincially accredited PV cell
research center in the Jiangsu Province, according to the press release. It is currently staffed by 20 scientists, engineers and technicians, but is ultimately expected to have a staff
of 38. The million facility consolidates all of the CSI’s R&D facilities in one place.
Solar cell R&D efforts together with DuPont and University Institutes
CSI reports that it had signed research partnership contracts with DuPont, the University of Toronto and the Shanghai Jiao Tong University. According to the press release, the
partnership with DuPont will mostly focus on improving solar grade cells."CSI is now executing a four-year cell efficiency research program that will lead to better products and lower
costs. Both the solar-grade cells for our e-Modules and regular silicon cells can benefit from this research", Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Canadian Solar
stated. The program objective is to significantly improve cell conversion efficiency. "Our goal is to bring our average cell efficiency for polysilicon monocrystalline cells to 18.5 %
and solar grade cells to 15.5 % within 12 months. In this effort, we are proud to partner with some of the world's leading R&D organizations and look forward to jointly exploring
new materials and manufacturing methods in order to better our efficiency and product development", Qu concludes.
2009-02-05 Courtesy: Canadian Solar Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Velux: CO2 emissions to be cut by 50% before 2020
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Velux wants to contribute to more
sustainable building.
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Velux A/S, a danish solar thermal and building components manufacturer, is now intensifying its efforts in climate protection by making considerable investments and setting ambitious
goals, the company reports in a press release. Its strategy is two-fold: reduction of the company’s own environmental impact and environmentally beneficial improvements in the use
of the company’s products. "Although we have focused continually on ensuring efficient use of our resources, it is our belief that we now need to do even more by setting concrete
objectives for our own efforts. Our climate is changing and there is a need to reduce CO2 emissions and thereby global warming. We all have a responsibility to contribute to alleviating
global climate problems - and we take that responsibility very seriously. So we have drawn up a new and ambitious climate policy", says Velux CEO Jørgen Tang-Jensen. Velux
has set the goal of reducing the Group’s 2007 global CO2 loads by 20 % by 2012 and 50 % by 2020. To achieve this goal, the company by own account is making investments of up to
DKK 400 million over the next few years in a series of energy-improving initiatives.
More efficient production and operation
According to the press release the production of Velux accounts for about 95 % of the Group’s total CO2 emissions, and initiatives to cut that figure are aimed primarily at
reducing the energy consumed by production facilities. Current and planned initiatives for operational optimisation include heating by boiler units fuelled on wood chips from
production, optimisation of wood-chips suction with compressed air and optimisation of compressor technology. About 5 % of the Group’s total CO2 emissions comes from Velux sales
companies and administration, and a series of initiatives will be implemented here too to optimise energy consumption, including energy-saving measures, review of forms of travel,
optimisation of use of paper and so called 'green checks' of activities.
Vision for the sustainable buildings of the future
"Apart from focussing on CO2 emissions from our own production, we also work intensively on supplying products that help others to reduce CO2 emissions from buildings. With our products
and the way they are used, we wish to contribute to more sustainable building. We call it ‘Sustainable Living’. Buildings account for 40% of the western world’s total
energy consumption. We need to reduce that level, so it is perfectly natural that we, as a building components manufacturer, take our share of the responsibility for doing that", says
CEO Jørgen Tang-Jensen. Velux has a vision for the sustainable buildings of the future, the company reports in the press release. To demonstrate its vision, over the next two years
Velux will collaborate with a number of building components manufacturers in constructing six CO2-neutral houses intended for experimentation with technological solutions. The houses
will be monitored and measured for energy consumption and indoor climate and the experience will be used in future Velux product development. The concept is called ‘Model Home
2020’. Its objective is to create climate-neutral buildings with an optimal indoor climate, fresh air and daylight, the company emphasizes.
Reduction of climate impacts as an important part of social responsibility
"Reduction of our climate impact is an important part of our social responsibility as a company. At the same time, we believe that by acting in an environmentally responsible manner we
also make a contribution to ensuring more efficient and more cost-effective production and operation, the continued relevance of Velux products and enhancement of our reputation. We
also firmly believe that respect for the climate and financial performance are interconnected and give us the competitive edge - even though certain environment investments will take
longer to recoup than other kinds of investment", concludes CEO Jørgen Tang-Jensen. To document its progress in the climate area, from now on VELUX will publish global CO2 accounts for
the VELUX Group. The 2008 accounts are expected to be published on the company’s home page in late March 2009.
2009-02-05 Courtesy: Velux A/S Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Velux A/S
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3S Swiss Solar Systems obtains major order for the equipping of a highly automated PV production line
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Laminating line by 3S Swiss
Solar Systems.
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3S Swiss Solar Systems (Lyss, Switzerland), a 100% subsidiary of 3S Industries AG, the world's technological leader in the manufacture of automatic string soldering systems,
laminating lines and testers for solar module production, has received an order for delivery of a partial line for the production of PV solar modules. The installation with a value of
EUR 11.6 million, which has been sold to Germany, includes a number of new technological features and offers the most innovative solutions available on the market for the encapsulation
and final processing of solar modules, 3S Swiss Solar Systems reports in a press release. Following its entry into the business of fully automatic production lines in August 2008, 3S
Swiss Solar Systems has now sold the first partial line for the encapsulation and final processing of solar modules. The production line is being delivered to a German
customer in Brandenburg that has been successfully producing on an automatic laminating line from 3S since 2006. To expand its production, the Eastern German company has now ordered a
partial line for solar module production that provides a large number of new technological developments.
New edge-cutting machine and "Sun Simulator 3c"
The new production line includes several laminating lines of the new and extremely powerful type XL which was also introduced by 3S Swiss Solar Systems in summer 2008. Another important
development is a fully automatic edge-cutting machine with a cutting speed of 90m/minute and a very long service life, 3S Swiss Solar Systems emphasizes in the press release. The
customer benefits here from shorter cycle times and longer maintenance intervals. A module tester of the "Sun Simulator 3c" type which offers the best homogeneity in the distribution of
light and the best light spectrum is the heart of the module sorter from Pasan at the end of the production line. With this tester, extremely precise module measurements can be carried
out. The module sorter also guarantees efficient handling and packaging of the tested modules.
Module testers by Pasan
3S Industries AG brings together the three key technologies in the field of solar module production, namely soldering, laminating and testing, under a single roof. In the field of
laminating, 3S Swiss Solar Systems has been the world's technological market leader for years. In 2007, today's 3S Industries acquired a further key technology with Pasan SA, the
leading producer of module testers. With the acquisition of Somont in 2008, the Group has continued its strategy of expansion and added in the sector of automatic string soldering the
missing element in the value-creation chain of solar module production. The three companies appear independently of each other in the market, each focused on one of the three key
technologies. Furthermore, 3S Industries integrates this production equipment in turnkey production lines. 3S Industries is also a producer of solar modules and plans and develops
building-integrated solar systems.
2009-02-05 Courtesy: 3S Industries AG; pressebox Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: 3S Swiss Solar Systems
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German PV producer aleo solar boosts contract volume in Europe to 50 megawatts
aleo solar AG (Oldenburg, Prenzlau) on February 3rd, 2009. announced that it has again signed new agreements for the delivery of aleo PV modules with a number of specialist dealers,
installers and solar technology specialists in the European core markets. Together with the contracts announced in December 2008, this lifts the 2009 contract volume in Europe to a
total of more than 50 megawatts, the company reports in a press release. Heiner Willers, member of aleo solar’s Management Board, believes that the company is well
positioned in today's buyer's market: "The agreements we closed already give us good visibility for 2009. We can play to our strengths throughout Europe because our premium modules are
marketed under a strong brand through our own sales team. We work closely with installers and support them in supplying photovoltaic systems for private and commercial customers. Our
full service for our specialist dealers and installers is paying off." aleo solar AG has witnessed a trend towards rooftop installations all over Europe and the company has special
expertise in this segment.
2009-02-04 Courtesy: aleo solar AG Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
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Applied Materials urges quick action on President Obama’s reinvestment plan
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Mike Splinter, President
and CEO, Applied Materials.
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Applied Materials, Inc., nanomanufacturing and solar technology solutions provider, headquartered in Santa Clara (California, USA) announced in a press release that its president and
CEO Mike Splinter met with President Obama and CEOs of several of America’s largest companies at the White House to discuss the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. In the
discussion, Mr. Splinter focused his remarks on key aspects of the clean technology agenda, including incentives for solar energy adoption as a way to create new jobs as the new
administration and both houses of Congress look to reinvigorate and stimulate the United States economy, the company reports in the press release.
"Structured and implemented in the right way, the recovery package can be much more than just an interim financial rescue plan", said Splinter. "Wise investment today can lead to a much
brighter future for America by putting in place the foundation on which to build a stronger and more competitive economy." According to the press release Splinter specifically pointed
to three actions related to solar energy that are now under consideration as part of the recovery package that could rapidly help to create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the United
States.
ITC, solar incentives and extended R&D budgets
The first action is to provide for short-term refundability of the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) as well as new tax incentives to locate solar manufacturing facilities in
the U.S., and to encourage expansion of the renewable technology manufacturing base in the USA. As a second action Applied Materials mentions the adoption of renewable and solar energy
sources for federal properties which would have an almost immediate impact since the Federal government spends almost billion annually on electricity. Congress should make
billion available immediately to the Federal Energy Management Program to invest in the construction and operation of solar installations in order to power federal buildings and lands.
In addition, Applied Materials advises the increase of the Energy Department’s annual Solar Technologies Program R&D budget to 0 million and the increase of overall R&D
spending. This combined investment has the potential not only to lower electricity bills, but also to reduce carbon emissions, and put thousands of people to work, the company
emphasizes in the press release. The third action should be the enhancement of the innovative renewable technology loan guarantee program with the ultimate goal of creating a clean
energy bank that would provide low- or no-cost financing for solar and other renewable projects and accelerate commercial deployment of renewable energy projects.
President Obama is showing great leadership in energy
"Along with bridges and roads, President Obama has made it clear that he believes strongly in the value of building a 21st Century technological infrastructure that includes items like
building out a new 'smart-grid' for transmitting electricity and broadband digital networks for high speed communications", said Splinter. "President Obama is showing great leadership
in energy and we are excited to see that his vision for a new America includes real change in the way we generate energy", added Splinter. "The President’s objective to reduce
reliance on fossil fuels by harnessing the power of the sun can be realized through solar technology and products that we are innovating and manufacturing here in this country. This
could create thousands of new jobs and ultimately change the global energy equation."
2009-02-01 Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc. Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc
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DuPont installs large solar panel array at Hawaiian research facility
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1,500 panel solar power system at Dupont's
Waimea Research Center in Kauai, Hawaii.
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DuPont, producer of materials solutions for crystalline silicon and thin film solar cells on January 29th, 2009 announced the installation of its largest photovoltaic solar energy
facility at its "Pioneer Hi-Bred" Waimea Research Center in Kauai, Hawaii. The Waimea photovoltaic installation is comprised of 1,500 panels - made from several DuPont photovoltaic
materials - produced by Evergreen Solar and installed by REC Solar. The one-acre array due to DuPont is capable of generating about 85 percent of the energy needed for the research
facility. It is expected to generate 706,205 kilowatt hours (kWh) annually, or enough power for 64 average-size homes. By using renewable energy, the facility will avoid the
emissions (equivalent carbon dioxide) from approximately 100 cars annually, saving Pioneer about 0,000 per year in avoided purchased electricity costs. The installation was completed
and fully operational in December 2008, DuPont reports in the press release. DuPont has already installed photovoltaic solar power systems for its R&D and business facilities in
Wilmington, Delaware., and Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Photovoltaic solutions for clean renewable energy
"This installation is a great example of our commitment to be both a key materials and technology supplier to the photovoltaic industry, and also a leader of solar power use", said Marc
Doyle, global business director - DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions. "Our products can help make clean renewable energy a reality while also powering our facilities as part of
DuPont’s sustainability goals." DuPont offers a broad portfolio in the solar energy market with eight essential products. DuPont is a leading material and technology supplier to
the photovoltaic industry with more than 25 years of experience in photovoltaic materials development. "DuPont technologies enable higher power output with improved productivity and
increased solar module lifetime", the company emphasizes.
2009-02-01 Courtesy: DuPont Microcircuit Materials Solarserver.de © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: DuPont Microcircuit Materials
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