Shimane SANYO to increase solar cell production capacity to 220 MW with new HIT production line HIT solar cell by SANYO. SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (SANYO; Moriguchi City, Osaka, Japan) on June 23rd, 2009 announced that its subsidiary Shimane SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (Shimane SANYO; Unnan City, Shimane, Japan) will start up a new HIT solar cell production line, in anticipation of an active demand for photovoltaic (PV) systems worldwide stimulated by economic packages as represented by the Green New Deal. The new production line will be installed on the second floor of Factory Building No. 3 and is scheduled to begin operation in April 2010, the company reports.   According to the press release, Shimane SANYO currently has a total HIT cell (Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin layer) production capacity of 130 megawatts (MW). The new 7,872 million yen (82 million US-Dollars) line will add another 90 MW, bringing the total production capacity of Shimane SANYO to 220 MW. As the solar business is one of its core businesses and vital to its growth strategy, Shimane SANYO is believed to be an important base for the realization of the company's development. Shimane SANYO is expected to contribute to the local community by expanding its photovoltaic system business. 2009-06-30   Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.

Nuon opens test plant for flexible solar cells in Arnhem, Netherlands Nuon produces flexible thin film solar cells on the roll. Nuon (Amsterdam, The Netherlands), an energy company on own account serving more than three million customers in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, on June 24th, 2009 announced that it had opened the first test plant for the production of flexible solar cells in the Netherlands. According to the press release, the plant is developing a production method that will enable photovoltaic (PV) cells to be produced "on the roll", which is expected to make these flexible solar cells cheaper. The Nuon subsidiary Helianthos had developed the process to produce flexible thin film amorphous silicon solar cells with a number of roll-to-roll production steps.   According to Nuon, the advantage of this process is that it enables large-scale, low-cost production. It is also believed that flexible solar cells can more easily be incorporated into existing materials, such as roof coverings, building facades, sunblinds or baffle boards. Production plant for Nuon' subsidiary Helianthos to be located in Arnhem According to the press release, the laminate was initially produced in a width of 30 cm, but first steps have been taken in the test plant to produce a laminate with a width of 120 cm. Once the development process has been successfully completed, Nuon plans to start the construction of a production plant for Nuon Helianthos. This plant will also be located in Arnhem and it is expected to be able to manufacture approximately one million square meters of solar cell laminate annually. 2009-06-30   Courtesy: Nuon   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: Nuon

Solar airplane Solar Impulse: Pilots unveiled prototype in Switzerland Solar-airplane "Solar Impulse". Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg on June 26th, 2009 unveiled, at Dübendorf airfield close to Zurich, the Solar Impulse HB-SIA, the first aircraft designed to fly both day and night without fossil fuel or pollution. The presentation of the prototype took place in front of more than 800 persons, including 200 representatives of the international media, and many high-ranking guests among them H.S.H. Albert II of Monaco, the Swiss Minister of Energy and Environment, the CEOs of Solvay, Omega and Deutsche Bank and the CEO of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).   The press conference was also relayed live on Internet and was followed by journalists all around the world. 60 media representatives gathered in Beijing and followed the conference in front of giant screen, in simultaneous translation for the occasion. A revolutionary airplane powered by 12,000 solar cells Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg first retraced the history of the project since it was launched in 2003. 6 years of intense work, calculations, simulations and tests were needed by the 70-person team to complete this totally unprecedented aircraft: with the wingspan of a Boeing 747-400 and the weight of an average family car (1600 kg), never has such a large craft been built with such low weight. Over 12,000 solar cells mounted onto the wing will supply renewable energy to the four electric motors with a maximum power of 10 HP each. During the day they will also charge the lithium-polymer batteries (400 kg), which will permit the HB-SIA to fly through the night. The HB-SIA is the first prototype of the Solar Impulse project. Its mission is to demonstrate the feasibility of a complete day-night-day cycle propelled solely by solar energy. After fine-tuning on the ground, the aircraft should make its first test flights between now and the end of 2009, first of all at Dübendorf airport (canton of Zurich) and then from Payerne air base (canton of Vaud). A first complete night flight is programmed for 2010 and will take place over Switzerland. The results from the HB-SIA and their analysis will serve to develop and build a second aircraft, the HB-SIB for circumnavigating the word in five stages, each lasting several days, in 2012. A new supporters program In response to demands from many enthusiasts, Solar Impulse announced today a program specially reserved for people wanting to participate in the adventure and to express their support of the project’s philosophy. Supporters can enroll on www.solarimpulse.com to receive news in real time, to adopt a solar cell on the wing, reserve a VIP visit at the Solar Impulse base, or place their names on the aircraft's fuselage. A symbol for promoting renewable energies In a world dominated by fossil fuels, and given the urgent need to find sustainable solutions, the Solar Impulse project sets out to demonstrate the potential of renewable energies and to promote their use. It is also a symbol of the energy savings that can be accomplished using new technologies. The pioneering spirit which enabled man to conquer the planet and space in the 20th century should today allow us to find solutions to reduce our dependence on oil, not by reducing mobility and personal comfort, but by creating dreams, hope and enthusiasm. 2009-06-30   Courtesy: Solar Impulse   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: Solar Impulse

PG&E to purchase 92 MW of solar thermal power from NRG Energy's SunTower project Representative photo of the solar thermal technology by eSolar. The US-utility Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E; San Francisco, California) on June 25th, 2009 announced that it had entered into an agreement with Alpine SunTower, LLC, a subsidiary of NRG Energy Inc. (NRG; Princeton, New Jersey), for 92 megawatts (MW) of renewable, solar thermal power. According to the press release, the Alpine SunTower project features eSolar's (Pasadena, California) modular, scalable solar thermal technology and is scheduled for completion in 2012. The project is located near Lancaster, California and is expected to produce approximately 192 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity each year.  This is equal to the annual consumption of nearly 30,000 average homes. "PG&E is collaborating with NRG and eSolar to serve our customers' future energy needs and respond to their demand for renewable resources", said Fong Wan, Senior Vice President of energy procurement for PG&E. "The combination of NRG's proven development skills and eSolar's innovative technology can provide our customers with clean, affordable energy." Sun's heat boils water, creates steam and drives turbine to create electricity According to the press release, the project is part of eSolar and NRG's recently announced plans to develop up to 500 MW of solar thermal power in California and across the southwestern United States. Solar thermal power generates electricity by converting solar energy to heat, which boils water to create steam that turns a turbine. The spinning turbine then generates clean, renewable electricity. According to the press release, eSolar's concentrating solar power projects feature a proprietary combination of optics and software in a pre-fabricated form factor for cost-effective scalability. Its scalable plants will be built in 46 MW units, each of which requires one quarter square mile of land. "With the only operating solar power tower technology in the U.S., this new agreement with world-class utility PG&E points to the success of NRG and eSolar to develop solar thermal generation", said Bill Gross, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of eSolar. David Crane, NRG's President and CEO commented: "As we enter the hot summer months, we are reminded that solar power has a key role to play in helping meet peak demand in California." PG&E reports that on average, half of the electricity the company delivers to its customers comes from carbon-free generating sources, making the company's energy some of the cleanest consumed by any electric utility customers in the nation. 2009-06-29   Courtesy: Pacific Gas and Electric Company   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: NRG Energy

TÜV Rheinland PTL offers comprehensive facility for testing and certification of solar energy equipment TÜV Rheinland test facility TÜV Rheinland PTL (Tempe, Arizona), one of the leading test organization for photovoltaic (PV) technology worldwide, in June 2009 announced that the company's joint venture with Arizona State University (ASU) had been selected as one of five entities among Science Foundation Arizona's (SFAZ) most recent solar investments. "This investment demonstrates that Science Foundation Arizona recognizes the professional capabilities and scientific acumen of TÜV Rheinland PTL and in our ability to enhance the position of the solar industry in Arizona by offering unique services and creating job opportunities", said Dr. Govindasamy Tamizhmani, President of TÜV Rheinland PTL.   According to the press release, TÜV Rheinland PTL had been chosen to receive this support as part of a larger SFAZ program called "PEPER" (Photovoltaic Environmental Performance and Reliability for the Arizona-Wide Electric Grid). The program partners include ArizonaStateUniversity, the University of Arizona and TÜV Rheinland PTL along with a number of other industry organizations and government entities. PEPER's goal is to help identify better performing solar products and address industry testing and certification barriers related to the market introduction of solar products, TÜV reports. 2009-06-29   Courtesy: TÜV Rheinland PTL   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: TÜV Rheinland PTL

Satcon offers fully integrated utility class conversion solution for solar photovoltaic installations PowerGate Plus 1 MW Solar PV Inverter. Satcon Technology Corporation (Boston, Massachusetts), a provider of utility scale distributed power solutions for the renewable energy market, on June 23rd, 2009 announced the general availability of a fully integrated one megawatt (MW) medium voltage solution optimized for utility scale solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, dubbed "Prism." According to the press release, this new inverter system is a fully customizable platform, complete with factory integrated step-up transformers, switchgear and electronics.   It will be delivered complete in an all-climate outdoor enclosure and ready to connect to the PV array and utility grid, enabling rapid installation through a modular prepackaged design, the company reports. Prism is expected to increase the ease and speed of a typical utility scale PV installation, while also providing unparalleled power production efficiencies. New product caters to utility scale solar power plants Satcon reports that its Prism one MW integrated medium voltage solution is based on factory integrated pairs of the company's "PowerGate Plus" 500 kilowatt (kW) solar PV inverters. "We are at an inflexion point in the solar PV industry, where utility scale projects are becoming more prevalent", commented Dr. Leo Casey, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Vice President of Engineering for Satcon. "Satcon's solutions have been used on some of the largest renewable energy sites in the world with hundreds of millions of grid connect kW hours delivered to date. Our customers were asking for a highly efficient, completely integrated package for large scale installations, and Prism offers the most flexible, efficient and powerful solution on the market today." The Prism solar PV solution is now available and will come with Satcon's standard five-year warranty, the company reports. 2009-06-29   Courtesy: Satcon Technology Corp.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: Satcon Technology Corp.

SkyFuel to install 43 MW "SkyTrough" collectors at Cogentrix solar power plant in California "SkyTrough" parabolic collectors by SkyFuel. SkyFuel, Inc. (Albuquerque, New Mexico), a solar thermal power technology and service provider, on June 23rd, 2009 announced that it had signed an agreement with Sunray Energy, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Cogentrix Energy, LLC (Charlotte, North Carolina), for the installation of the company's "SkyTrough" collectors at Sunray's 43 megawatt (MW) parabolic trough plant near Daggett, California, formerly known as Solar Energy Generation Systems I and II (SEGS I & II).   According to the press release, the agreement with Sunray Energy allows for the first commercial installation of SkyTrough, an advanced parabolic trough concentrator which uses glass-free "ReflecTech" mirror film reflectors. SkyFuel hopes to demonstrate the commercial viability of the company's solar collector in a full-scale, solar plant. The installation is scheduled to be operational later this year, the company reports. Mirror film instead of glass reduces costs and increases reliability "This deployment is the next step in our process to verify the low cost and high performance of the SkyTrough, a process that began in 2008 with design and component testing, continues with independent testing by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Sandia National Laboratories, and since March of this year also includes testing of the heat transfer fluid loop at our Colorado R&D Center," said SkyFuel founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Arnold Leitner. "Now the SkyTrough takes the next step with integration into a commercial power plant", he added. The SkyTrough, first introduced to the market in October 2008, does not use glass mirrors like conventional collectors. Instead, it employs a new system with a mirror film, dubbed "ReflecTech," as the reflecting surface, which had been developed by SkyFuel's co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Randy Gee together with scientists at NREL. According to the press release, the goal had been to replace traditional glass mirrors which can shatter under operating conditions, resulting in considerable expense to replace the mirror panels and any receiver tubes damaged by flying glass shards. 2009-06-28   Courtesy: SkyFuel, Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: SkyFuel, Inc.

Australia: Solar PV bonus scheme for New South Wales announced Carmel Tebbutt: A significant boost for renewable energy in NSW. The Australian Minister for Climate Change, Carmel Tebbutt and the Minister for Energy, Ian Macdonald, on June 23rd, 2009 announced a scheme to support people in New South Wales (NSW) who produce renewable energy with roof-top solar panels and feed it into the grid. "This is a significant boost for renewable energy in NSW and has the potential to generate an additional 500 green jobs. Our scheme is designed to be the most generous to operate anywhere in Australia, apart from the ACT", Ms. Tebbutt said.   "The scheme, scheduled to commence on January 1st, 2010, is to reward customers with around 900 Australian dollars annually, meaning an average solar panel system could be paid back within 12 years", Tebbutt added. According to the press release, the scheme is a net scheme that is designed to operate for 20 years and it will pay eligible systems 60 Australian cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the renewable energy fed into the grid. The scheme is to include systems up to 10 kilowatts (kW), which are expected to cover households, small businesses, some community organizations and some schools. Scheme to boost local solar industry, create jobs and produce clean power "While the scheme will initially apply to roof-top solar panels, we will consider the inclusion of micro wind turbines and community solar farms. The NSW Government has a comprehensive renewable energy plan that includes the solar bonus scheme, significant funding for new renewable energy projects and wind renewable energy precincts," Tebbut said. Ian Macdonald said it was vital the NSW Government got the balance right when developing its solar bonus scheme: "Solar bonus schemes such as this are paid for by all electricity customers. It is important to shield vulnerable individuals and families who are not in a position to install solar panels from a significant increase in their electricity bills," Macdonald said. "This is a shot in the arm for the solar energy industry and comes on the back of the recent announcement of solar manufacturing Silex Systems Ltd. to develop the BP Solar manufacturing facility at Homebush," he added. Silex (Lucas Heights, Australia) is expected to invest an estimated 30 million Australian Dollars in the Homebush plant over coming years, which is expected to create 165 "green" jobs, ensuring its future use as a high technology solar manufacturing base. 2009-06-28   Courtesy: www.dwe.nsw.gov.au   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: www.parliament.nsw.gov

Solar Thermal Energy resists the economic turmoil and celebrates a strong growth New statistics for the European solar thermal market. The Solar Thermal Industry is looking confidently toward the future following a strong performance in 2008, when the European market grew by 60 %. And the 4th European Solar Thermal Energy Conference (estec2009) confirmed its status as the largest international solar thermal platform worldwide with around 400 participants from 43 countries, the European Solar Thermal Industry Federation (ESTIF) reports in a press release. "In 2008, solar thermal heating and cooling solutions gained favour in more and more countries", says ESTIF President Olivier Drücke. "The solar thermal market in the EU and Switzerland grew by over 60 % to 3,3 GWth of new capacity, i.e. 4,76 mil m2 of collector area".   While demand for solar thermal technologies increased strongly in Spain, Italy and France, the biggest push came from the German market which more than doubled, from 0,7 GWth to 1,5 GWth. Cyprus and Austria leading in terms of installed capacity per-capita Austria is still ahead per-capita in continental Europe. With a total capacity in operation of 273 kWth per 1000 inhabitants, it trails only world leader Cyprus which achieved 623 kWth per 1000 inhabitants at the end of 2008. At the recent estec2009 conference in Munich an international audience was given a preview of the latest ESTIF statistics. As these figures attest, the solar thermal sector is fast becoming an economic stimulator. Indeed, the European turnover for solar thermal products exceeded the 3 billion Euro mark in 2008 and the industry now employs over 40 000 persons on a full-time basis. Latest market data available to download "Solar thermal is well-anchored in today’s European markets - our solutions help consumers reduce their energy bills and society to reduce its dependence on scarce, imported fuels", says Olivier Drücke. "With oil prices rising again, we believe that our sector will continue to grow steadily and be less affected by the current economic turmoil". ESTIF's latest market data in PDF format (944 KB) are available to download at   Up to 1,200 kilowatt-hours per rated kilowatt-peak "In the last few years, many of our customers in Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein have produced some ten percent more solar power than predicted. In coastal areas, facilities using aleo modules generate up to 1,200 kilowatt-hours per rated kilowatt-peak." This explains why the tender specification issued by a buying syndicate on the Baltic island of Fehmarn mandated the deployment of solar modules from aleo solar. To date, the 21 members of Fehmarn's buying syndicate have completed installations with around 5,500 aleo modules. This is a significant plus compared to the forecasts, which also increases the operators' rate of return. Kaiser-Wilhelm-Koog in Schleswig-Holstein on top of the German "Solar League" Similarly high output is otherwise attained only in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg - the regions with the bulk of online photovoltaic capacity to date. "When one considers the yields of premium modules in the North, one can see there's still huge potential for new rooftop business", states Norbert Schlesiger. The top spots in Germany's "National Solar League" (www.solarbundesliga.de) are now no longer taken by communities in Bavaria. A solar output of some 2.4 kilowatts per inhabitant has propelled the municipality of Kaiser-Wilhelm-Koog in Schleswig-Holstein to the top of the table. The community is also home to BeBa Energie GmbH, the firm that installed all of the Fehmarn buying syndicate's photovoltaic plants during 2008. Unusually, all of these solar facilities were given a technical inspection by consulting engineers from Hamburg, which revealed that all plants were installed perfectly and operate flawlessly. While this kind of inspection is the rule for new wind power plants, it is still an exception in the photovoltaics market. "The quality-conscious Fehmarn buying syndicate is made up of Enercon wind power facility operators. In deciding to expand their renewable energy generation into photovoltaics, the syndicate elected to use solar modules from aleo solar AG," explains Bernd Bartels, Director of BeBa Energie GmbH. BeBa Energie has been an aleo solar authorized specialist dealer since 2007. 2009-06-25   Courtesy: aleo solar AG   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH Picture Courtesy: aleo solar AG

Off-Grid photvoltaics as a compelling alternative for the PV industry Against the backdrop of current developments within the photovoltaic markets, including the introduction of a cap in Spain, reduction of the feed-in tariff in Germany, the largest PV market, as well as the increasing module surplus, market participants are increasingly looking for future alternatives, the market researcher reports in a press release. Once, the most important market segment, the off-grid market made up 90 percent of the total installed capacity worldwide. In recent years, off-grid has become less important. Because of the present developments within the market, regions like Africa, Asia or Latin America are returning to the spotlight as areas of high potential.   According to Florian Schmidt, project manager of the study "Global Off-Grid PV Markets", published by EuPD Research "the rapid population growth as well as a high proportion of the rural population with no access to the grid is causing the attractiveness of the technology to increase." According to estimations by Greenpeace, more than two billion people will receive electricity from off-grid PV systems by 2030. Study reports the highest development potential in Africa In 1995, twenty-five percent of the photovoltaic capacity worldwide was installed in Africa. Yet as the demand for photovoltaic applications experienced dramatic increases in many parts of the world, it stagnated in Africa. According to the new EuPD Research study, Africa is still considered to be the continent with the highest potential for development for off-grid PV, particularly South Africa, which in 2008 had an installed capacity of approximately 20MW. Small PV plants with a power output of less than 100W make up more than 50 percent of the market, according to survey participants. These plants are mainly employed in rural regions by private customers. Off-grid plants are also used for industrial applications like machine operation, water pumps or desalination plants. Systems for public buildings such as hospitals, schools and tourist facilities, as well as small mobile systems like radios or mobile phones are also very important. Those who participated in the study expect a further increase in the near future particularly within the segment of small plants in the private or public sector; by 2012 this sector is expected to have a market share of 75 percent. Moreover small mobile applications as well as PV systems for infrastructure are likely to gain importance in South Africa. Overcoming the challenges The results of the study show that prices for PV modules and PV systems in Africa, Asia and Latin America clearly exceed those for on-grid technology in Europe – in Asia and Latin America the price difference is more than 20 percent. It is caused primarily by difficulties in distribution in the various regions and the small number of intermediaries. "The purchase power of the population within the analyzed countries is clearly less than in industrial nations. In order to make it possible for the population to use PV plants, several financing instruments must be made available, from micro credits, to micro leasing or social programs", says Florian Schmidt. With the help of off-grid PV-based electric supply or hybrid systems, the framework for the sustainable development of the economy could be built up in disadvantaged regions. What is required is the creative use and optimization of financing options, an increase in awareness of off-grid photovoltaics, and also making low-priced, high-quality and customizable photovoltaic plants available. About the study For the new study "Global Off-Grid PV Markets" EuPD Research identified the key regions relevant to the technology, and evaluated them using specific criteria including: purchase power of the population or public promotion for off-grid photovoltaics. Next, 46 interviews with wholesalers, system providers, turnkey providers and installers from the key regions Africa, Asia and Latin America were completed to obtain statements regarding framework conditions, market segmentation as well as market drivers and hindrances. Interviews with module and inverter manufacturers of off-grid PV applications were also conducted. The result is the first comprehensive primary data-based study of the global markets for off-grid photovoltaics. To learn more about the study "Global Off-Grid PV Markets" please follow the link:
China Sunergy' Headquarters at Nanjing, China.

China Sunergy Co., Ltd. a solar cell manufacturer based in Nanjing, China, on June 15th, 2009 announced that it had entered into a 6 year, 53 megawatt (MW) sales framework agreement and a 3 MW sales contract with solar module manufacturer Renergies Italia S.p.A (Urbisaglia, Italy). Based on the terms of the non-binding framework agreement, a total of 53 MW of solar cells manufactured by China Sunergy could be sold to Renergies Italia between 2009 and 2014.   Given the non-specific nature of the agreement, each actual sale of solar cells will be based on definitive contracts which will be negotiated between China Sunergy and Renergies Italia, the companies report. Pursuant to this framework agreement, the parties entered into a 3 MW contract for solar cells to be supplied from China Sunergy to Renergies Italia during 2009. Commenting on the agreement, Dr. Ruennsheng Allen Wang, Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of China Sunergy, remarked: "An important part of China Sunergy's growth strategy has been the development of new partnerships with industry leaders across diverse geographies. This agreement demonstrates our ability to execute on both of those initiatives despite the challenging sales environment."

2009-06-25   Courtesy: China Sunergy Co., Ltd.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: China Sunergy Co., Ltd.

EPIA study: Photovoltaic power poised to join European energy mainstream by 2020

Study "SET For 2020".

Photovoltaic solar electricity will become a significant and competitive supplier to the European electricity market, concludes a comprehensive study conducted by the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) with the strategic management consultancy A.T. Kearney.  The "SET For 2020" study explores different deployment scenarios: under business-as-usual conditions, photovoltaic power should supply between 4 % and 6 % of Europeans' electricity needs by 2020. However, photovoltaic power could supply as much as 12 % of EU electricity demand by 2020 - up from less than 1% at present - if more favourable conditions are established by European policy makers, regulators and the energy sector at large.




Photovoltaic to reach competitiveness in parts of southern Europe in 2010

"Photovoltaic electricity generation will already be competitive in parts of southern Europe by next year" said Dr. Winfried Hoffmann, EPIA President. "The study shows that under the 12% scenario, photovoltaic electricity will be competitive with other power sources in as much as 75% of the EU electricity market by 2020, without any form of external price support or subsidy."

Providing a combination of facts, figures and analysis, the study shows that boosting the share of photovoltaic electricity will yield huge benefits to European society and its economy. Photovoltaic electricity is the fastest-growing renewable energy technology, and costs are expected to drop faster than those of other electricity sources. "Europe now needs to recognise the important role photovoltaic power can play in meeting its energy sustainability goals", said Adel El Gammal, EPIA Secretary General. "The photovoltaic industry is committed to delivering energy technology that is sustainable and competitive on a large scale. We are calling on political and regulatory decision makers and on the energy sector to support photovoltaic deployment without delay".


More information: http://www.setfor2020.eu

2009-06-24   Courtesy:   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: EPIA

Satcon supplies inverters for largest solar energy rooftop installation in the southeast United States

"PowerGate Plus" inverter 250 kW.

Satcon Technology Corporation (Boston, MA), provider of utility scale distributed power solutions for the renewable energy market, on June 16th, 2009 announced that it had installed four 250 kilowatt (kW) "PowerGate Plus" inverters on a 1.1 megawatt (MW) capacity rooftop PV system at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), the largest solar rooftop installation in the southeast of the United States. The system had been designed and built on 200,000 square feet of the center's roof by Johnson Controls Inc. (Glendale, Wisconsin), a global multi-industrial leader in energy efficiency, sustainability and renewable energy.   "The Orange County Convention Center project is a significant step in the growth of utility scale solar power generation in Florida", said Don Albinger, Vice President of Renewable Energy Solutions at Johnson Controls. "We were pleased with the performance characteristics of the Satcon inverters, and their availability helped us get this project designed and installed on time."


1.1 million kWh to be generated during the first year of operation

The four 250 kW Satcon "PowerGate Plus" inverters are expected to deliver over 1.1 million kilowatt hours (kWh) in the first year of operation, enough energy to power over 100 homes. The project is expected to significantly reduce the convention center's total energy costs and carbon emissions. An education center inside the convention center will display the system data, performance and solar energy information to the millions of visitors of this world class venue. Pete DeGraff, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Satcon said: "The Orange County Convention Center project showcases both Orange County's and the state of Florida's commitment to solar energy as a reliable source of power to supply their energy demands. We applaud their innovation and are honored to be a part of this world class team of industry leaders."

2009-06-24   Courtesy: Satcon Technology Corporation   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Satcon Technology Corporation

REC: Off-grid PV is no longer core business; Solar Vision in South-Africa sold

Solar home system by Solar Vision.

REC ASA (Sandvika, Norway), one of the most integrated companies in the solar energy industry, on June 16th , 2009 announced that the ownership of Solar Vision (PTY) Ltd., which has until recently been a fully owned subsidiary of REC, is no longer defined as core business for REC and has consequently been sold through a management buyout. REC entered the rural solar energy off-grid markets as a pioneer in several African markets. Through its activities and investments it has shown that Solar Vision is a successful player in the PV rural electrification segment in South-Africa. Solar Vision will build from this platform with a new and more focused ownership; REC reports in a press release. 

Solar Vision is divested through a management buyout, where Jakes Jacobs (Managing Director of Solar Vision) will buy a majority (76 %) through his South African Triple J Trust and Tommy Fernandes (former REC employee) will hold the remaining (24 %) shares through his Norwegian company InSite International AS. Solar Vision will continue its current activity related to sustaining a low cost solar-home-systems deployment, but also develop new related activities.

2009-06-24   Courtesy: REC   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solar Vision

California regulators approve Southern California Edison's proposal to create 500 MW PV installation program

SCE installed "thin film" solar photovoltaic panels on a 600,000-square-foot rooftop of a Fontana warehouse.

A plan proposed by Southern California Edison (SCE; Rosemead, California) for the largest U.S. installation of advanced solar photovoltaic panels on otherwise unused large commercial rooftops across Southern California had been approved by the California Public Utilities Commission, SCE reports in a press release of June 18th, 2009. During the next five years the company plans to install, own and operate 250 megawatts (MW) of solar electric capacity. The utility also intents to conduct competitive solicitations offering long-term power contracts to independent solar power providers who are expected to install an additional 250 MW, bringing to 500 MW the total generating capacity of the project.  According to the press release, this will be the largest photovoltaic (PV) program ever executed. "This innovative solar rooftop project is part of Edison International's 25-year commitment to developing cleaner renewable and alternative energy sources for our customers," said Theodore F. Craver, Jr., Edison International Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "The program will create hundreds of neighborhood solar power plants, strengthen local grid reliability and produce hundreds of new green jobs to bolster Southern California's economic recovery", he added.


2.4 MW rooftop installation completed; second construction started

SCE reports that it had completed the first of about 150 scheduled sites during the fall of 2008, a 600,000-square-foot Fontana, California distribution warehouse roof. The rooftop now holds 33,700 advanced thin-film solar panels with a generating capacity of 2.4 MW of direct current (DC) power, a project believed to be the largest single rooftop solar PV array in California. SCE also reports that the company has begun construction of its second installation atop a 458,000-square-foot industrial building in Chino, California. First Solar (Tempe, Arizona) was the winning bidder to supply panels for these first two installations. Based on the reported regulatory approval, competitive solicitations are expected to take place for the remaining roof leases and equipment needed for the 250 MW of facilities SCE plans to install and operate. A limited number of ground mounted installations will also be considered for its solar program, SCE reports. SCE anticipates that its solar power project will create as many as 800 new green jobs in Southern California in the solar industry.

2009-06-24   Courtesy: Southern California Edison   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Southern California Edison

Yingli to develop off-grid PV system for China Mobile

Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (Baoding, China), a vertically integrated photovoltaic (PV) product manufacturer, on June 15th, 2009 announced that it had signed an off-grid PV system sales agreement with the Shanxi subsidiary of China Mobile, and that it had been selected by Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. (Shenzhen, China) to supply PV modules for its base stations. The Shanxi subsidiary of China Mobile is the largest mobile telecommunications operator in China and plans to build a video monitoring system for forest fire prevention in the Shanxi Province.   Under the terms of this agreement, Yingli will supply the video monitoring system with 269 off-grid PV system units, totaling 0.47 megawatt (MW). The Shanxi Forestry Bureau and the Shanxi subsidiary of China Mobile will be joint constructors for the video monitoring system, which is expected to cover 11 cities and 113 counties in Shanxi Province.


Period of market growth expected for China solar market

Yingli Green Energy also reports that the company had been selected by Huawei, a leader in providing next generation telecommunications network solutions for operators around the world, to supply PV modules for its base stations in the second half of 2009. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Yingli Green Energy, said: "As one of the first solar companies in China, we established business relationships with China Mobile in 2003 and with Huawei in 2004. These recent wins further demonstrate our solid position as a qualified PV module and system supplier in China. Driven by the launch of the new PV application incentive policy and the increased focus on environmental protection in China, we expect to benefit from a strong period of growth in the Chinese PV industry." Miao believes that easing of the seasonality in Europe, considerable progress in clean energy incentive policy legislation in the USA and China and a change in industry sentiment are some reasons for market growth. This had also been visible at the Intersolar conference in Munich, Miao concluded.

2009-06-24   Courtesy: Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH

Abengoa Solar inaugurates second-generation high-temperature solar power tower

Eureka with the solar tower plants PS10 and PS20.

Abengoa Solar's (Seville, Spain) first high-temperature power tower, dubbed "Eureka," was unveiled on June 19th, 2009 by Martín Soler Márquez, Director of Innovation, Science and Enterprise for the Andalusian Regional Government, the company reports in a press release. According to the press release, this power tower is intended to test a new type of receiver on an experimental basis and it is expected that the receiver can achieve the higher temperatures needed for higher-efficiency thermodynamic power cycles. The aim of this new technology is to increase plant performance, thereby reducing generating costs as well as the area of the solar field, Abengoa reports.   The new experimental plant occupies a 16,000-squarefoot portion of the Solúcar Platform and uses 35 heliostats and a 164-foot tower which houses the experimental superheating receiver. The capacity of the experimental plant which features a thermal energy storage system is estimated to be about 2 megawatts (MW).


Solúcar Platform solar thermal and PV installation complex to offset 185,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year

Rafael Osuna, General Manger with Abengoa Solar New Technologies, said: "This marks the beginning of the next experimental phase for this high-potential solar power tower technology which could lead to an important step forward in our goals of generating clean electricity at competitive prices. Our significant investment in research and development has made this groundbreaking concentrating solar power technology a reality." Abengoa reports that it now has three solar power towers in operation, two for commercial use and the experimental tower. The new plant is part of the Solúcar Platform, a solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) solar installation complex scheduled for completion in 2013. Thanks to its 300 MW capacity, the plant is expected to supply clean electricity for 153,000 households and to eliminate the emission of 185,000 tons of CO2 per year.

2009-06-23   Courtesy: Abengoa Solar   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Abengoa Solar

Statkraft to build 3.3 MW solar park in Italy

Statkraft has established a partnership with Norsk Solkraft in Italy to develop two solar power plants, each of 3.3 MW.

Statkraft AS (Oslo, Norway), a European renewable energy company, on June 18th, 2009 announced it is going to construct its first solar park. The PV power plant is to be built in the Latina region, 60 kilometers to the south of Rome, Italy, and is scheduled to be completed in 2009. According to the press release, the 13 million Euro solar photovoltaic power plant will have a capacity of 3.3 megawatts (MW) and is expected to generate 4.5 million kilowatt hours (kWh) annually.  The 15,700 solar panels at the plant will cover an area just under 96,000 square meters. "The construction of our first solar park is an important milestone in our work to meet the world's need for pure energy. Solar power is a new energy source for us, and we expect it to grow in the years ahead due to technological developments, cost reductions and favorable framework conditions," said Jon Brandsar, Executive Vice President of Statkraft.


1,200 Italian households to be supplied with renewable energy

The construction work is scheduled to commence before the summer, and once the facility is completed towards the end of the year, it is expected to generate enough electricity to supply 1,200 Italian households. Statkraft reports that it had cooperated with Norsk Solkraft to develop the Italian projects Casale and Borgo, and that it now fully owns both projects after Norsk Solkraft had decided to divest in May, 2009. "Italy is presently one of the most attractive solar energy markets in Europe. We are also looking at options in Spain and Southeast Europe in order to reach our goal of 75 MW solar power by 2012", said Olav Hetland, Senior Vice President of Business Unit Solar Power with Statkraft.

2009-06-23   Courtesy:   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Statkraft AS

Photovoltaics: Trina Solar to provide Enfinity with 15 MW solar modules

Trina Solar Limited (Changzhou, China), a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) products from the production of ingots, wafers and cells to the assembly of PV modules, on June 18th, 2009 announced that it had entered into a sales agreement with customer Enfinity NV (Waregem, Belgium). According to the press release, the agreement had been signed in conjunction with the Intersolar in Munich. Under the terms of this agreement, Trina Solar will supply Enfinity with approximately 15 megawatts (MW) of PV modules, with shipments scheduled in the current second quarter.  "This new contract will significantly help to grow new projects in Germany, Belgium, Italy and other European solar markets," stated Arturo Herrero, Vice-President of sales and marketing of Trina Solar. "We look forward to keep expanding our relationship with our loyal partner Enfinity by providing high quality modules, premium service and low cost industry leading platform." Gino Van Neer, founder of Enfinity, said: "Enfinity is proud of this new sales agreement with Trina Solar. We consider this as a continuation of our good relationship with Trina Solar that supplies Enfinity and its customer base with the best in class solar technology."

2009-06-23   Courtesy: Trina Solar Limited   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH

Ascent Solar manufactures flexible 5 meter PV laminate

flexible 5 meter PV laminate by Ascent Solar.

Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (Thornton, Colorado), a developer of flexible thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules, on June 15th, 2009 announced that the company had manufactured a monolithically interconnected 5 meter long flexible light-weight solar module on a polyimide substrate. According to the press release, the CIGS based thin film material (copper indium gallium selinide) used was manufactured using the company's 1.5 megawatt (MW) roll-to-roll manufacturing line.   The module was encapsulated using the testing and qualification of equipment that will be used for its 30 MW plant under construction, Ascent reports. Based on the company's internal test and evaluation, the 5 meter long module weighs 2 kilograms and produces 123 watts under standard test conditions with an aperture area efficiency of 9.1 percent. The company plans to develop large area flexible building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products together with strategic BIPV partners. Ascent Solar Sr. Vice President for Production Operations, Dr. Prem Nath stated: "This is the largest monolithically interconnected CIGS module on polyimide and may be the largest of any CIGS module regardless of construction. The size and efficiency of this module make it a breakthrough for the emerging opportunities of flexible CIGS photovoltaic modules."

2009-06-22   Courtesy: Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.

Suntech opens world-class PV module testing facility in collaboration with Underwriters Laboratories

Suntech's headquarters in Wuxi.

Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (WUXI, China), the world's largest crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturer, on June 18th. 2009 announced that it has opened the first state-of-the-art PV module testing laboratory in China to be awarded the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) "Witness Testing Data Program" (WTDP) Certificate. Located at Suntech's headquarters in Wuxi, the world-class PV module testing facility is the largest in China with 1400sqm and 7000sqm of indoor and outdoor testing space, respectively, Suntech reports in a press release. The cutting edge test equipment includes pulse and continuous solar simulators, walk-in climate chambers, mechanical load and hail testers, electroluminescence testers, and high precision infrared cameras to evaluate all aspects of module quality and performance.   All the equipment and testing procedures accord with the stringent standards of UL1703, IEC61215 and IEC61730-2. Through UL's WTDP, PV module tests may be conducted under the supervision of highly experienced UL personnel and subsequently awarded certification enabling Suntech to bring solar products to market faster.


A flight to quality module producers

Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO said, "This new state-of-the-art PV module testing laboratory reflects Suntech's goal of producing the highest quality and most reliable solar panels in the industry. Underwriters Laboratories has exceptional, globally recognized expertise in quality testing, and it is an honor to be the first solar company in China to be awarded with the Witness Testing Data Program certificate. In close collaboration with UL, this witness testing program will enable us to accelerate the testing and qualification of Suntech PV modules so that we can bring the latest solar technology to our customers as fast as possible. In the current environment, we believe that there is a flight to quality module producers and that customers value our commitment to ensuring the reliability of our products."


The world's largest crystalline silicon module manufacturer taking the lead in module quality

Scot Webster, UL's SVP of CAS Engineering and Laboratory Operations said, "It is excellent to see the world's largest crystalline silicon module manufacturer taking the lead in module quality with the establishment of this world-class test laboratory. Suntech has already garnered a reputation for producing premium quality solar products and this new lab will no doubt enhance customer confidence in Suntech products. We look forward to building UL's relationship with Suntech to certify the safety and quality of ongoing evolutions of solar technology."

2009-06-22   Courtesy: Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd.

Emcore awarded solar panel manufacturing contract for NASA mission

Satellite solar panels.

Emcore Corporation (Albuquerque, New Mexico), a provider of compound semiconductor-based components and subsystems for the fiber optic and solar power markets, on June 16th, 2009 announced that the company had been awarded a contract to manufacture, test, and deliver solar panels for NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) spacecraft. According to the press release, the 5 million US-dollar contract will be managed by MEI Technologies, Inc. (Houston, Texas) for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC).  Emcore reports that the GPM spacecraft solar arrays will be powered by the company's latest generation, class ZTJ multi-junction solar cells with 30 percent efficiency, which are to be produced at manufacturing facilities in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The GPM mission is one of the satellite-based science missions to study global precipitation, including rain, snow and ice. The launch of the spacecraft is presently scheduled for summer of 2013. Christopher Larocca, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Emcore, stated: "We are very excited to earn this contract award from MEI Technologies and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. This award reaffirms Emcore's position as the leading solar panel supplier for space missions. Our proven manufacturing capability, technology leadership, and reliability heritage make Emcore the supplier of choice for demanding spacecraft power systems."

2009-06-22   Courtesy: Emcore Corporation   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Emcore Corporation

NV Energy and American Capital Energy sign PPA for 20 MW solar array in Southern Nevada

PV plant at Nellis Air Force Base: A joint project of NV Energy, the U.S. Air Force, MMA Renewable Ventures and SunPower.

NV Energy, Inc. (Las Vegas, Nevada) and the project development and construction services company American Capital Energy (ACE; Massachusetts) on June 11th, 2009 announced that they had entered into a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) for solar energy produced from a 20 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic (PV) power plant to be constructed near Searchlight, Nevada, 55 miles south of Las Vegas. The project is expected to be completed by mid-2010 and will be larger than the 14-MW PV facility at Nellis Air Force Base which at present is the largest solar PV plant operating in the United States.  "This is another major step in our commitment to bringing power from renewable resources to the citizens of Nevada", said Michael Yackira, NV Energy President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "Our state is blessed with abundant solar, geothermal and wind resources, and expanding the use of these resources through power purchases of this kind or direct investment in renewable projects is one of our top priorities." The terms of the power purchase agreement, which is subject to approval by the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada, were not disclosed.


Nevada increased renewable energy and efficiency goals: 25 percent by 2025

The agreement will assist NV Energy in meeting Nevada's portfolio standard, which was recently increased by the state legislature. The standard now requires that 25 percent of energy be generated by renewable resources and energy efficiency and conservation programs by 2025. The companies said that all of the PV output from the plants will go to customers of NV Energy's southern service territory. Construction of the project is expected to create more than 120 jobs and to help develop Nevada's renewable energy workforce. "American Capital Energy is excited about the Searchlight Solar I solar PV project. We are honored to have been selected to work with NV Energy to deliver clean, renewable solar energy to southern Nevada," said Tom Hunton, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of American Capital Energy.

2009-06-22   Courtesy: NV Energy, Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: U.S. Air Force,

Concentrating solar power to replace traditional power sources

Solar thermal tower CSP plant.

According to a press release by the World Resources Institute (WRI; Washington, D.C.) concentrating solar power (CSP) technology has the potential to replace traditional fossil fuel-based power sources and become a central part of the U.S. power supply. "Now, while Congress works on climate and energy legislation, is a good time to focus on CSP and what is needed to fully realize the potential of this attractive renewable energy option", said Britt Staley, the lead author of a new report by WRI.   "State and federal support for developing renewable energy sources and increased federal oversight of the transmission grid are needed", Staley added. The authors of the report, dubbed "Juice from Concentrate," argue that CSP is different from many renewable energy technologies that provide power intermittently. When combined with thermal storage, CSP can generate electricity on demand, not just when the sun is shining. This may enable utilities to meet baseload power instead of relying on coal-fired power plants.


High investment cost as a primary barrier to broader CSP adoption

If CST displaces new coal plants built in the United States today until 2030, carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by 5 billion tons cumulatively, WRI reports. Staley believes that one of the barriers to a broader adoption of solar thermal power are relatively high up-front investments and water usage. According to the WRI report, one CSP plant uses roughly the same amount of water per kilowatt hour (kWh) of output as a coal plant, which might become a problem in arid regions where water resources are scarce. "Alternative cooling systems are available and can reduce water requirements, but these systems can increase project costs", Staley said. "Creating investment incentives for plants to incorporate these technologies will be important to the long-term sustainability of CSP." The report calls for building a more complete infrastructure to bring power from sunny deserts to urban centers which could, according to the authors, be achieved by a greater federal oversight of the electricity grid and improved coordination between grid operators.

2009-06-21   Courtesy: World Resources Institute   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: World Resources Institute

Concentrator Optics starts production plant for solar Fresnel lenses

Fresnel lens parquet in the laboratory.

Concentrator Optics GmbH, based in Cölbe, Germany, has started its first production line of Fresnel lenses for high-concentrating solar photovoltaic applications at the beginning of June 2009, the company reports in a press release. By its own account an automatized production line for the mass manufacturing of Fresnel lens parquets up to a capacity of 20 MW/year is available now. Due to the company it can be scaled up to a capacity of 100 MW/year.  "We are focussed on nonimaging designs for solar applications. Our speciality are Fresnel lens parquets for concentrating photovoltaics (CPV). We offer the design, prototyping, testing and manufacturing of Fresnel lens parquets exceeding an area of 1 m² and have developed a multitude of systems over the last years. The typical optical train of a CPV system is made of a non imaging Fresnel lens and a secondary optical element. The lens focuses the incident sunlight onto the refractive secondary, and in turn onto the target. We integrate the optical train into module and tracker design in close cooperation with our customers", says Dr. Ralf Leutz, CTO of Concentrator Optics.


Competence gained through academic research on non imaging optics

Concentrator Optics was founded in April 2008 as a spin-off of the Physics Department of Marburg University and moved into its production facility in February 2009. According to the press release the customers benefit from the competence of experts gained through academic research on non imaging optics and commercial development of solar applications. "Our goal is the technology leadership in the solar lens market. Innovative research is an integral part of our strategy to ensure sustainable growth on a technology basis", Rainer Adomeit, COO of Concentrator Optics states. "It is our philosophy to guarantee the topmost efficiency possible to our customers and thus maximal profit during the whole product life of the module."


CPV technology is leaving its research and prototype status

Concentrating Photovoltaics (CPV) are close to common acceptance in the growing market of renewable energies, Concentrator Optics emphasizes. CPV solar modules have been reaching increasingly impressive efficiencies. Combined with significantly reduced costs by using concentrating optics to focus light onto small higher-efficiency cells this technology is leaving its research and prototype status, entering industrial production. German companies strive to make their contribution by pressing ahead a rapid technological development to provide affordable and environmental friendly electricity, Concentrator Optics reports in the press release.

2009-06-21   Courtesy: Concentrator Optics GmbH   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: TransMIT GmbH

Wind Power Works: Global Wind Day reaches tens of thousands of people

A driving force for climate protection: Wind Power Works in the USA.

On June 15th, 2009, tens of thousands of people from around the world joined in celebrating the enormous benefits of wind power during the first ever Global Wind Day, the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) reports in a press release. "Wind energy is a driving force for climate protection, economic development and the creation of future-proof jobs", said German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel. "The Global Wind Day 2009 demonstrates the enormous potential of wind energy to the public."   In a joint effort between the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA), the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and many national wind energy associations, more than 200 events and activities were organized in 35 different countries, spreading the Wind Day messages to around a million people. Ranging from wind farm open days, conferences, exhibitions, workshops and information days to regattas, sporting contests and theatre shows, there was something for everyone, everywhere, EWEA reports.


Global support for wind energy

"We know that there is huge public enthusiasm for wind as a clean, sustainable source of energy that creates jobs and boosts local economies", said Christian Kjaer, Chief Executive of EWEA. "The Wind Day is the chance for people to actively show their support, and it is a real pleasure to see how much fun can be had at the same time!" "We are particularly pleased to see participation from so many countries outside of the traditional wind energy markets – from Cameroon to Japan, from Uruguay to New Zealand"; added Steve Sawyer, Secretary General of GWEC. "Public acceptance of wind energy is immensely important for keeping up the momentum of sustained growth, and the events of this week have shown that the support for wind energy is truly global."



New campaign "Wind Power Works - pass it on"

GWEC is also launching its new campaign, "Wind Power Works - pass it on" as part of the Global Wind Day activities. The campaign’s aim is to spread the word about the benefits of wind, to promote bold emissions targets and the rapid deployment of wind energy around the world to avoid the worst consequences of climate change.

The campaign video is available for download at http://www.windpowerworks.net/passiton.

Photos and news of the many other activities can be seen on the Global Wind Day website http://www.globalwindday.org/

2009-06-19   Courtesy: EWEA   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Global Wind Energy Council

Southern California Edison Signs Contracts for More Than 900 Megawatts of Renewable Power

Solar-thermal trough generator by Solar Millennium.

Southern California Edison (SCE; Rosemead, Calif.) has signed agreements with wind and solar suppliers for up to 960 megawatts of clean, renewable power, the company reports in a press release. The recent agreements, subject to approval of the California Public Utilities Commission, include two contracts with Solar Millennium for a potential 726 megawatts of power from solar-thermal trough generators. When complete, those projects call for two 242 megawatt facilities with the option to expand one to include an additional 242 megawatts. The projects would be located in Blythe, Calif., and Ridgecrest, Calif., and are expected to come on line in 2013 and 2014.   "Southern California Edison is committed to expanding our renewable energy portfolio to benefit our customers, our suppliers and the environment", said Stuart Hemphill, SCE's vice president, Renewable and Alternative Power. "As the nation’s leading utility in renewables, we applaud the innovation that these companies show, and we look forward to productive, long-term partnerships."


Wind power agreements with Columbia Energy Partners and BP Wind Energy & Ridgeline Energy

Other recent renewable power contracts - both scheduled to come on line in the fourth quarter, 2010 - include an agreement with Columbia Energy Partners for 40 megawatts of wind power, expandable to 104 megawatts, in Central Oregon; and one with BP Wind Energy & Ridgeline Energy, LLC for 90 megawatts of wind power, expandable to 130 megawatts, in Southeast Idaho.

To date, SCE on own account has executed 12 contracts from the 2008 renewable solicitation representing potential annual deliveries of more than 6.5 billion kilowatt-hours per year. In addition, SCE is in the process of preparing to issue the 2009 renewable solicitation with an expected launch date by the end of June. SCE delivers more renewable energy to its customers than any other utility - 12.6 billion kilowatt-hours in 2008 - and 16 percent of its total energy portfolio comes from geothermal, wind, solar, small hydro and biomass resources. In addition, SCE delivered 65 percent of the nation’s solar energy to its customers in 2008.

2009-06-18   Courtesy: SCE   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solar Millennium AG

Dr. Nedim Cen is new CFO of Q-Cells SE; Dr. Hartmut Schüning steps down as CFO

Dr. Hartmut Schüning terminated his Executive Board contract at Q-Cells.

The Supervisory Board of Q-Cells SE, the world's biggest manufacturer of solar cells, on June 17th, 2009 agreed to CFO Dr. Hartmut Schüning's request for the premature termination of his Executive Board contract and announced a search process to find a replacement that is underway. In the interim, the supervisory appointed Dr. Nedim Cen as his successor, the company reports in a press release. Schüning headed the company’s financial department for over five years. Under his direction, significant milestones were set to finance the growth of the company, which is now the world's largest manufacturer of solar cells. These milestones include the successful IPO in 2005, a series of capital measures and, most recently, a convertible bond of the amount of 250 million euros.   With its bond issue and sale of shares in REC Group, Q-Cells has created a solid foundation for further growth in challenging financial market conditions.



A strong financial base for Q-Cells achieved

"As CFO and Board Member responsible for HR, and with his great personality, Dr. Schüning has considerably shaped our company over the past years. Following one of the most successful IPOs in the sector, we are now an important company in the German technology index TecDax. As an individual and one of the most influential architects of our corporate culture, Dr. Schüning has made a lasting mark on our organisation. We are particularly grateful to him for his total commitment to achieving a strong financial base for Q-Cells, in what are trying times for the entire industry. Now that this task has been completed, the Annual General Meeting is a good time for both him and the company to move on to the next step", says Anton Milner, CEO of QCells SE.


From a pure-play manufacturer into a photovoltaics group

Milner continues: "Particularly in a period in which the market and the company are undergoing drastic changes, we are extremely pleased to have secured in Dr. Cen the talents of an experienced financial professional. His expertise will give us an important impetus in our further development from a pure-play manufacturer into a photovoltaics group."

Dr. Cen, 43, an experienced financial expert, will join the team within the next few days to accompany Q-Cells in a new development phase. Up to 2008 he was CFO of the KION Group, a spin-off of Linde and the world's second-largest manufacturer of fork-lift trucks with head offices in Wiesbaden, Germany. Previously, Cen spent 15 years in management consulting and investment banking, with positions at Credit Suisse and McKinsey. He is currently Managing Director of Alvarez & Marsal in Munich, which specialises in financial consultancy and interim management. Dr. Cen will lead the finance and HR departments at Q-Cells until a new CFO is appointed. To ensure a smooth changeover, Dr. Schüning is also available to support the company in an advisory capacity.

Dr. Cen completes the five-strong management team led by CEO Milner. Gerhard Rauter is responsible for the core business, crystalline silicon technology. His colleague, Dr. Florian Holzapfel, is driving the development of new technologies, including the Q-Cells thin film portfolio. The appointment of Dr. Marko Schulz to the Executive Board in April 2009 reflects the considerably greater importance of sales for the overall success of the company.

2009-06-18   Courtesy: Q-Cells SE   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Q-Cells SE

OTB Solar installs first silicon inkjet system at Innovalight

Silicon ink printed solar cell.

Innovalight, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California), a privately-held firm developing silicon-ink printed solar cells technology, on June 8th, 2009 announced that the company has installed the world's first high-throughput industrial silicon-ink inkjet printing system at the its headquarters in Sunnyvale. According to the press release, the printing system had been engineered and manufactured by OTB Solar (Eindhoven, The Netherlands) in co-operation with Innovalight.   Using high precision touch-less inkjet printing of silicon-ink, Innovalight reports that it can halve the number of costly manufacturing steps required to produce high efficiency solar cells. In addition, the OTB printing system is said to allow for high volume production of ultra-thin crystalline silicon solar cells with thicknesses as little as 50 microns. Current mass manufactured solar cells are almost four times thicker requiring more material and twice as many processing steps to convert into finished solar cells, the company reports.


Novel inkjet manufacturing allows for cost-effective, high-efficiency solar cells

"In OTB Solar we found a strong partner with experience in both solar industry and inkjet printing technologies", said Conrad Burke, Chief Executive of Innovalight. "The OTB Solar team delivered a very sophisticated and powerful solution to Innovalight in record time", he added. "Ink jet printing is becoming the next generation solar cell manufacturing technology", said Chris Boomaars, Head of OTB Solar's New Business Development Division. "Using silicon-ink processing, Innovalight will dramatically improve the cost and efficiency of today's silicon solar cells. This partnership is a great example of how we take solar cell production to the next level."

2009-06-17   Courtesy: Innovalight, Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Innovalight, Inc.

DoE funds solar energy, carbon capture and improvement of vehicle efficiencies with 300 million US-dollars

Energy Secretary Chu announced investments to boost clean and solar energy technologies.

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu on June 11th, 2009 announced more than 300 million US-dollars worth of investments to boost a range of clean energy technologies, including carbon capture from coal, solar power and high efficiency cars and trucks. According to the Department of Energy's (DoE) press release, the move reflects the Obama administration's commitment to a broad based strategy that is expected to help create millions of jobs while transforming the way the United States uses and produces energy.  "There's enormous potential for new jobs and reduced carbon pollution just by implementing existing technologies like energy efficiency and wind energy, but we also need to develop transformative new solutions", said Secretary Chu. "As a scientist, I remain optimistic that these breakthroughs are within our reach, and investments like these are an important part of achieving them."


Up to 22 million US-dollar funding for solar PV and up to 27 million US-dollars to develop solar installation training infrastructure

Secretary Chu announced the selection of 24 new solar projects to advance photovoltaic (PV) technology research, development and design with the goal of helping to lower the cost of PV power generation. According to the announcement, the projects will be eligible for up to 22 million US-dollars from the President's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and will be matched by more than 50 million US-dollars in cost shared funding from private partners. The new projects are said to range from the development of automated assembly processes to semiconductor fabrication. They target manufacturing and product cost reduction with the potential to have a near-term impact on a substantial segment of the PV industry. Secretary Chu also announced that the DoE plans to invest up to 27 million US-dollars to develop the US's solar installation training infrastructure to ensure that a trained solar workforce is ready to support significant growth in renewable power generation, including installers, engineers, salespeople, and other workers entering the solar photovoltaic, solar heating, and solar cooling industries.

2009-06-17   Courtesy: US Department of Energy (DoE)   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: www.energy.gov

Solar Thermal Barometer: Solar thermal market in the European Union grows approx. 50 %

19.982,7 MWth solar thermal capacity are installed in the EU.

The European solar thermal system market grew spectacularly in 2008 with over 4.6 million m2 solar collector surface installed, the EurObserv’ER consortium reports in a press release. Main drivers for this increase were the German and Southern European markets. Due to the Solar Thermal Barometer the European Union’s solar thermal market has clearly outstripped forecasts approx. 50 % growth in 2008, or about 3 238.5 MWth.   The collectors that contribute this additional power cover a surface of over 4.6 millionm2, which is 1.6 million m2 more than in 2007, crossing the symbolic 4 million m2 barrier for the first time.



Germany at the top in absolute number; Cyprus is leading per inhabitants

Translating the market growth from m2 surface sold to thermal power capacity installed, taking into account decommissioning of old systems, the solar thermal capacity in service in the EU at the end of 2008 is estimated at 19982.7 MWth (megawatt thermal). For the year 2007 the capacity is estimated as 16818.5 MWth, indicating that the corresponding capacity has increased +18.8% in 2008. The capacity ranking puts Germany at the top with over 11.3 million m2 in operation, followed by Austria (4 million m2) and Greece (3.9 million m2). The solar thermal surface installed per inhabitant varies widely throughout the EU: Cyprus is leading with 843 m2 per 1000 inhabitants, which is 1.8 times more than Austria (475.8 m2 per 1000 inhabitants) and 2.4 times more than Greece (345.1 m2 per 1000 inhabitants). Yet Austria looks like continental Europe’s top scorer with 3.5 times more collectors installed per inhabitant than in Germany, fourth in this ranking. Estimating the number of jobs and turnover generated by the European solar thermal sector is not an easy task, EurObserv’ER emphasizes and estimates the number of jobs generated by the solar thermal sector in the EU at over 50000. Sales should pass the 3 billion euro in 2008.


About the EurObserv’ER Barometer

The EurObserv’ER barometer regularly provides publications of indicators reflecting dynamics in renewable energies (solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal and biomass) worldwide and within the European Union. In the consortium name, ‘ER’ refers to renewable energy in French: energies renouvelables.

Free download

The bilingual (French/English) EurObserv’ER Barometers are available for download in PDF format at the following website:
http://www.eurobserv-er.org

2009-06-16   Courtesy: EurObserv’ER   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: EurObserv’ER

NRG Energy and eSolar to develop 92 MW solar plant in New Mexico

Representative photo of the solar thermal technology NRG Energy will be developing in New Mexico.

NRG Energy (Princeton, New Jersey), a US energy provider, on June 11th, 2009 reported that El Paso Electric (El Paso, Texas) had signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) for the full capacity of a 92 megawatt (MW) concentrating solar thermal power plant to be developed in southern New Mexico. NRG Energy plans to build the solar power plant together with eSolar (Pasadena, California), a producer of modular, scalable solar thermal power plants. According to the press release, this project is part of NRG's and eSolar's recently announced plans to develop up to 500 MW of solar thermal power in California and across the Southwestern United States.  The plant is expected to be the first commercial-scale solar thermal project in New Mexico when fully operational in the summer of 2011 and will support El Paso Electric's plans for meeting New Mexico's renewable portfolio standard. Governor Bill Richardson had signed New Mexico's renewable portfolio standard into law in March 2007 and has enacted 37 incentive measures to attract renewable energy companies to the state.



A combination of prefabricated parts, optics and software

The site for the development is a 450-acre property in southwest New Mexico, about 10 miles from El Paso, Texas. According to the press release, eSolar's modular approach requires approximately one-quarter square mile for a solar thermal capacity of 46 MW. In addition to their modular design, solar power plants by eSolar are said to address the hurdles commonly encountered in bringing solar power online: price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact. According to the press release, this is achieved with a proprietary combination of prefabricated parts, optics and software. "eSolar's modular technology can be installed at any scale and in variable configurations. Combined with NRG's resources and development expertise, eSolar's technology is the preferred solution for environmentally responsible mid-sized utilities like El Paso Electric", said Bill Gross, eSolar's Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "With 300 days of sun every year, a highly skilled labor force and a friendly business environment, New Mexico is well-positioned to lead the nation in solar energy production," said Governor Richardson. "eSolar, NRG and El Paso Electric are helping us make New Mexico's renewable energy potential a reality."

2009-06-16   Courtesy: NRG Energy   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: NRG Energy

NREL's Fellow Nozik wins UN science and technology prize for solar research

IREO Award for Arthur J. Nozik.

Senior Research Fellow Arthur J. Nozik of the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has won the 2009 Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Organization (IREO) Award for Science and Technology, NREL announced on June 11th, 2009. According to the press release, the IREO/UN award recognizes energy innovators who are "leading the way of global development through renewable energy, with the strength to challenge conventional wisdom and encourage critical thinking."  Dr. Nozik was awarded the prize during a ceremony and reception at the United Nations in New York City. "The present energy crisis and the related problem of severe global climate change associated with the accelerating use of fossil fuels to supply the world's growing energy demands cannot be addressed and timely solutions obtained without major international research and development efforts to produce low-cost carbon-free or carbon-neutral energy, new energy policies and strategies, and intergovernmental cooperation and coordination," Dr. Nozik said. "The formation of the Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Organization is an important international step forward toward achieving these critical objectives."



Novel materials to convert broader light spectrum into electricity

Dr. Nozik and his NREL colleagues have proposed and confirmed several new important concepts in photoelectron chemistry and solar photoconversion that may help revolutionize advanced solar energy research. He and his research colleagues specialize in working with semiconductor nanocrystals, such as silicon and other semiconducting materials. According to the press release, these materials can operate in a much larger portion of the light spectrum than what is used by conventional photovoltaic cells, allowing them to produce several electrons from one absorbed photon of sunlight. This process, known as multiple exciton generation (MEG), is expected to markedly increase the efficiency of solar cells. Ultimately, the goal of Dr. Nozik and his NREL team is to make the large-scale use of clean and carbon-free solar power more affordable, particularly in developing countries where energy demands are soaring. "We must extend the frontiers of basic scientific knowledge to develop a new generation of renewable energy technologies", said NREL Director Dr. Dan Arizu. "The IREO/UN Prize affirms that Dr. Nozik's research is fundamental to protecting the climate and establishing a clean energy economy."

More information on the 2009 IREO Award: http://www.ireoigo.org/awards/Home.html

2009-06-16   Courtesy: NREL   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: NREL

SunEdison inaugurates Renewable Operations Center for solar fleet management, command and control

Solar energy services provider SunEdison (Beltsville, Maryland), on June 10th, 2009 formally announced the opening of its Renewable Operations Center (ROC) located in SunEdison offices at the historic McClellan Air Force hangar. The company reports that it is North America's first fleet-wide photovoltaic (PV) management command and control center. It serves as the hub for the company's solar fleet performance data analysis, PV solar energy system monitoring, remote diagnostics, and automated service dispatch.  Mark Culpepper, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of SunEdison, said: "Our goal is simple: deliver more energy and thus more savings to our customers and greater returns to investors. According to the press release, the ROC enables SunEdison to manage remote diagnostics and a quick dispatch of local service crews when needed. The ROC is said to go far beyond monitoring by creating visibility and transparency in solar energy delivered across any utility's service territory. In 2008, SunEdison reports that its systems had performed at over 100 percent of expected electricity generation. According to IEA, the average PV system under performs by over 13 percent."A services architecture supporting the ROC and our discipline around service response are both key to exceeding generation expectations," Culpepper said. According to the press release, SunEdison has more than 65 megawatts (MW) of solar energy generation capacity under management in the United States.

2009-06-16   Courtesy: SunEdison   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH

Texas: CPS Energy and Pearl Brewery partner on 200 kW solar array

200 kWp photovoltaic system at the former Pearl Brewery.

US utility CPS Energy and Pearl Brewery (San Antonio, Texas), on June 9th, 2009 announced that they had completed a 200-kilowatt (kWp) solar photovoltaic project at the former Pearl Brewery redevelopment in Texas. According to the press release, the project is located at the Full Goods Building at Pearl and includes an interactive display offering information about solar energy with real-time updates on the amount of power produced and environmental equivalents in terms of pollutants avoided.   The companies report that the 1.35 million US-dollar solar installation had been funded with 950,000 US-dollars from Pearl and 400,000 US-dollars from CPS Energy in a public/private partnership.



Interactive display offers real-time updates on power generation

The project is expected to test the viability of solar energy in a large, real-world commercial application, said Milton Lee, CPS Energy Chief Executive Officer (CEO). "This project gives us an opportunity to gather information right here in San Antonio's climate, real information about what this size solar array can do to offset the energy demands of a large building in our weather conditions, and that information will be very valuable moving forward", Lee added. According to the press release, the solar array had been designed and installed by Meridian Solar (Austin, Texas), and is expected to generate about 25 percent of the building's total energy needs. During peak operating conditions, when the system produces more energy than the building requires, excess electrical power will be sent to CPS Energy for other users. "Texas should be a prime location for solar, but it currently generates a relatively small amount of solar energy," said Bob Sohn, Senior Advisor for Pearl planning. "Our hope is that our solar partnership with CPS Energy will serve to encourage further development of solar projects in Texas."


Former warehouse now home to solar-powered offices, retail stores, restaurants and residences

The Full Goods Building, a former warehouse redeveloped as mixed-use office, retail, restaurant and residential space, is expected to become a "learning laboratory" for environmental initiatives. Built to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) standards, the building features an energy efficient cooling and heating system, a variety of energy conservation measures and a rainwater collection system to supplement irrigation, according to the press release. "Pearl is committed to exploring and modeling all of the ways it is possible to revitalize and enhance urban spaces and demonstrate the 'power' of sustainable development", Sohn said. The former Pearl Brewery, a landmark in operation from 1883 until 2001, is located on 22 acres alongside the San Antonio River north of downtown San Antonio, Texas.

The solar display content is available at http://pearl.kiosk-view.com.

2009-06-15   Courtesy: CPS Energy   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: CPS Energy

Thin film photovoltaics: Xunlight demonstrates wide-web roll-to-roll manufacturing process

Thin-film silicon PV module by Xunlight.

Xunlight Corporation (Toledo, Ohio), a developer of flexible and lightweight thin-film silicon solar modules, at the end of May 2009 announced that it had successfully demonstrated a proprietary high-throughput, wide-web, roll-to-roll photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing process for the production of high-efficiency thin-film silicon PV modules. Xunlight reports that this new manufacturing process allows the company to produce triple-junction thin-film silicon solar cells on rolls of thin stainless steel substrates, three feet wide and up to one mile long.   The long stainless steel web is guided through a series of vacuum chambers for the deposition of nine semiconductor layers using a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process, and back-reflector and top electrode layers using a sputtering process. According to the press release, the combined thickness of the layers for the triple-junction solar cell is approximately one hundredth of the thickness of a typical sheet of paper and only a small amount of silicon is needed for the production.



Roll-to-roll manufacturing developed with University of Toledo's PV laboratory

Xunlight reports that it has designed, developed, engineered and built the new manufacturing equipment with the assistance of its academic partner, the University of Toledo's Thin Film Silicon Photovoltaic Laboratory. According to the press release, the design, development, engineering and construction of the production equipment had been made possible with private equity investments from four institutional investors: Emerald Technology Ventures (Zurich, Switzerland and Montreal, Canada), Trident Capital (Palo Alto, California and Westport, Connecticut), NGP Energy Technology Partners (Washington, D.C.), and Rabo Ventures. The project had also been financed in part with major grants from the State of Ohio's Third Frontier Project, the US Department of Energy (DoE) and the US Department of Commerce (DoC). Xunlight reports that its roll-to-roll manufacturing technology allows for much lower capital cost compared with the current state-of-the-art, enabling the company to rapidly ramp up its production capacity in the near future.


Large area PV modules with 7.4 percent aperture-area module efficiencies

Using its three-foot wide roll-to-roll manufacturing line, Xunlight reports that it had been able to produced large area (3ft by 5ft and 3ft by 18ft) flexible PV modules. The 3ft by 5ft modules, measured with a Spire "Solar Simulator", demonstrated 8.77 percent initial aperture-area efficiency, which, after extended light exposure, is expected to stabilize at 7.4 percent aperture-area module efficiency, according to the press release. "This is a significant milestone for us", said Dr. Xunming Deng, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company. "Everyone at Xunlight, particularly those in the design, engineering, construction and production teams, have worked extremely hard to make this possible. We are very proud of our talented and hardworking team."

2009-06-15   Courtesy: Xunlight Corp.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Xunlight Corp.

UNEP: emerging economies invested 27 % more in clean energies

UNEP's Executive Director Steiner: Developing economies accelerating expansion of Renwables.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP; New York, London, Nairobi) on June 3rd, 2009 released a statement on how the economic crisis affects the global clean energy industry. While both the European Union and the United States of America have been hit by the economic downturn, emerging economies had invested 27 percent more in clean energies, amounting to a total of 36 billion US-dollars. According to the press release, geothermal technologies have experienced the fastest growth rates, while wind power boasts the largest investments and solar technologies have seen the largest gains.   UNEP reports that 155 billion US-dollars were invested in 2008 in clean energy companies and projects worldwide, excluding large hydro-power projects. 13.5 billion US-dollars of new private investment went into companies developing and scaling-up new technologies alongside 117 billion US-dollars of investment in renewable energy projects from geothermal and wind to solar and biofuels.



More than 40 percent of new power generation capacity from renewable sources in 2008

Even though the investment in clean energy topped 2007's record investment by 5 percent, it had been realized in large part due to China, Brazil and other emerging economies. UNEP reports that of the total 155 billion US-dollars, 105 billion had been spent directly developing 40 gigawatts (GW) of power generating capacity from wind, solar, small-hydro, biomass and geothermal sources. A further 35 billion had been spent on developing 25 GW of large hydropower, according to the report. This 140 billion US-dollar investment in 65 GW of low carbon electricity generation compares with the estimated 250 billion spent globally in 2008 constructing 157 GW of new power generating capacity from all sources. It means that renewable energies currently account for the majority of investment and over 40 percent of actual power generation capacity additions last year.


Bright points recorded for developing economies in 2008

"Without doubt the economic crisis has taken its toll on investments in clean energy when set against the record-breaking growth of recent years", Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary General and UNEP Executive Director, said: "Investment in the United States fell by two percent and in Europe growth was very much muted. However, there were also some bright points in 2008 especially in developing economies. China became the world's second largest wind market in terms of new capacity and the world's biggest photovoltaic manufacturer and a rise in geothermal energy may be getting underway in countries from Australia to Japan and Kenya". Steiner added that other developing economies such as Brazil, Chile, Peru and the Philippines are working on introducing policies and laws to foster clean energy as part of a Green Economy.


Economic crisis spurs economic packages that stimulate green energy investments

Wind attracted the highest new investment (51.8 billion US-dollars, 1 percent growth on 2007), although solar made the largest gains (33.5 billion US-dollars, 49 percent growth) while biofuels dropped somewhat (16.9 billion US-dollars, 9 percent decrease). One response to the global economic crisis have been announcements of stimulus packages with specific, multi-billion dollar provisions for energy efficiency and to boost renewable energies. "These 'green new deals' lined up by some economies, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, European countries and the United States contain some serious clean energy provisions. These will help support the market," said Steiner. "However, the biggest renewables stimulus package of them all can come at the UN climate convention meeting in Copenhagen in just over 180 days time. This is where governments need to seal the deal on a new climate agreement - one that can bring certainty to the carbon markets, one that can unleash transformative investments in lean and clean green tech," he added.

Renewable energy costs to decline, increased importance for carbon trade expected

UNEP believes that green energy costs will come down, due to an ease in supply chain bottlenecks, especially in the wind and solar sectors. Solar costs are expected to fall by 43 percent, for example. Despite the turmoil in the world's financial markets, the transaction value in the global carbon market grew 87 percent during 2008, reaching a total of 120 billion US-dollars. Following the lead of the EU and Kyoto compliance markets, several countries are now putting in place a system of interlinked carbon markets and working towards a global scheme under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). According to the press release, growth has shifted to the developing world, even though market growth had stalled there recently. But developing countries had surged forward 27 percent over 2007 to 36.6 billion US-dollars and now account for nearly one third of global investments. China had led new investment, with India and Brazil coming in second and third.


2009 and beyond: Climate change, energy security and green jobs

New investments in the first quarter of 2009 fell, reflecting the depth of the global financial crisis, according to the report. But climate change, economic recovery and energy security are expected to spur far greater investments in the coming years. Annual investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and carbon capture and storage need to reach half a trillion dollars by 2020, representing an average investment of 0.44 % of GDP, UNEP believes. Reaching them will require a further scale-up of societal commitments to a more sustainable, low-carbon energy paradigm. With the current stimulus packages now in play and a hoped-for Copenhagen climate deal in December, the opportunity to meet this challenge is greater than ever, even seen from the depths of an economic downturn.

2009-06-14   Courtesy: UNEP   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: www.un.org.

Oerlikon Solar reports record thin film silicon PV efficiency and power output

Thin film PV production equipment by Oerlikon Solar.

Oerlikon Solar (Pfäffikon, Switzerland), a supplier of thin film silicon photovoltaic (PV) production equipment, at the Intersolar trade show in Munich, Germany, announced that it had achieved a new record efficiency level for commercial thin film silicon PV modules. According to the press release, recent test results from Oerlikon Solar's pilot production line in Switzerland had shown that full-size "Micromorph" modules with an area of 1.4 square meters had 151 Watts initial power which translates to 11 percent initial power conversion efficiency.   The company believes that this result sets a new industry record for production thin film silicon modules. "This achievement clearly demonstrates Oerlikon Solar's technical leadership and is another key milestone on our path to grid parity", stated Jeannine Sargent, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oerlikon Solar.




End-to-end manufacturing solution as key enabler through best-in-class technology

Oerlikon Solar had previously announced an ambitious production cost target of 0.70 US-dollars per Watt peak, which it wants to achieve by the end of 2010. The company believes that the performance of the record modules demonstrates the advantage of its end to end manufacturing solution. According to the press release, Oerlikon Solar's advanced PV technologies and process integration know-how resulted in an optimized manufacturing solution that is able to achieve higher conversion efficiencies and lower cost of ownership. "We successfully implemented several modifications of key processes of our end-to-end production line, leading to the increase in initial power output and efficiency", said Dr. Juerg Henz, Head of Thin Film Engineering and Operations at Oerlikon Solar. "We are confident that our ability to repeatedly achieve record results can be transferred into mass production soon." The company reports that its IEC-certified "Micromorph" technology can significantly boost solar cell efficiency by adding a second microcrystalline absorber to the amorphous silicon (a-Si) layer. According to the press release, this layer converts the energy of the red and near-infrared spectrum, facilitating efficiency increases of up to 50 percent. Oerlikon Solar is a world leader in silicon-based thin film solar technology and end-to-end manufacturing solutions. The company reports that its 10 established customers represent about 600 MWp of yearly production capacity that is currently in operation or being ramped up by them worldwide.

2009-06-14   Courtesy: Oerlikon Solar   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Oerlikon Solar Ltd.

Gartner: SolarMagic addresses one of the basic problems with PV

"SolarMagic" power optimizer

On May 27th, 2009 National Semiconductor Corporation (Santa Clara, California) announced that it had started shipment of its "SolarMagic" power optimizers for photovoltaic (PV) solar electric systems. The devices are intended to improve the efficiency of PV systems, which are subject to partial shade, panel aging and irregular array designs. The US-information technology research and advisory company Gartner Inc. (Stamford, Connecticut) commented on this product in a press release on June 8th, 2009. Gartner believes that the "SolarMagic" power optimizer addresses one of the basic problems with PV solar electric systems, namely that the power output of the entire system is reduced considerably if even one part of a single panel in the PV array is shaded or partly obstructed.   This is due to the architecture of solar arrays, which consist of a series of connected strings of panels and a centralized inverter to handle power optimization. According to the Gartner analysis, National's innovation lies in separating the power optimization function from the inverter and distributing it to the individual PV panels, allowing for power optimization at the panel level. This represents a transformative shift in PV system architecture, Gartner believes, and it could expand the available area for rooftop PV installations and reduce the cost of PV solar electric systems. Researchers also expect that "SolarMagic" systems can increase the energy harvest and that they have the potential to improve system reliability.

2009-06-13   Courtesy: Gartner Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: National Semiconductor Corp.

Underwriters Laboratories plan to open photovoltaic testing facility in Germany early next year

Tests in the UL PV lab in San Jose.

Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a world leader in product safety testing and certification, headquartered in the U.S.A. with German branches in Neu-Isenburg and Munich, outlined plans at Intersolar 2009 in Munich, to enhance its market position as a preferred partner of manufacturers within the solar industry. In light of the growing demand for certifications of solar modules, UL will continue to expand the capacity of its existing photovoltaic labs as well as open new labs in global key markets of the solar industry, the company reports in a press release. In 2010, UL plans to open new facilities in Germany and Japan. "Germany and Japan are the bedrocks of photovoltaic manufacturing, research and innovation", said Jeff Smidt, General Manager of UL’s Global Energy Business.   "Expanding to these markets is a natural next step for UL. We are committed to fostering the development of renewable technologies and providing our valued customers, regardless of their location, with the tools they need to succeed in this rapidly developing industry. German manufacturers, in particular, will benefit from the close proximity to one of UL’s new photovoltaic labs, as well as the ability to obtain preliminary assessments of their testing in an early stage of product development."




USA, Canada, Japan and China leading the pace in establishing their own solar markets

For German companies, the expected solar boom in the US market poses as a huge opportunity. Analysts of PiperJaffreys expect the U.S. solar market to double as much as 600 - 700 megawatts by 2010, with 1.5 to 2 gigawatts reaching the dimension of the German PV market. The German Association of Solar Business (Bundesverband Solarwirtschaft) noted that the leading industrial nations - U.S.A., Canada, Japan and China - are leading the pace in establishing their own solar markets. This results in new sales potential for the German solar industry, while competition in technology intensifies. According to UL, the need for quality management and safety for manufacturers of components and modules will accelerate as well as the demand for testing and certification. In fact, the share of photovoltaics in German electric power consumption was around 1 percent in 2008, and is predicted to be around 25 percent in 2050 (Source: BSW-Solar).


The only NCB for PV product testing that is able to test and certify products in accordance with both the UL Standards and the IEC Standards

In addition to building new capacity, UL has recently extended its 20,000-square-foot testing facility in San Jose to 20 test chambers. Additional solar simulation equipment (for indoor testing) is being installed and will be operational in July 2009. At this time the lab is also undergoing a 13,500 square-foot expansion for additional testing operations. Project capacity at this facility will grow an additional 30 percent year-over-year compared with July 2008. In addition, UL is enhancing its engineering capabilities across other relevant PV markets by exploring new partnerships in Asia. UL is currently the only National Certification Body (NCB) for PV product testing that is able to test and certify products in accordance with both the UL Standards and the International Standards (IEC) without being reliant on partners’ help, which helps especially German manufacturers get faster access to global markets.

2009-06-12   Courtesy: Underwriters Laboratories (UL)   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: UL

Yingli Green Energy PV modules to power a 13 MW solar plant in Czech Republic

Yingli Green Energy Holding, Ltd. (Yingli; Baoding, China), a vertically integrated photovoltaic (PV) product manufacturer, on June 5th, 2009 announced that its PV modules will be installed in a 13 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in the Czech Republic to be constructed by SAG Solarstrom AG (Freiburg, Germany), one of the leading independent developers and system integrators in the solar power and solar investment markets in Europe. Pursuant to the Czech Republic's current feed-in tariff, installations of more than 30 kilowatt peak (kWp) capacity are remunerated with CZK 12.79 / kilowatt hour (kWh) (approximately 0.67 US-Dollars / kWh).   According to SAG, the plant is currently the largest PV project in the Czech Republic. Construction of the plant is scheduled to begin in July, and it is to be completed in the fall of 2009. The plant is expected to produce an estimated 13,650,000 kWh of solar electricity per year, enough to supply more than 3,000 households, according to the press release.


Czech Republic to become a promising solar market

"Yingli has a proven track record from numerous projects at SAG of delivering high quality modules with an excellent and reliable performance and yield. We are therefore looking forward to deploying Yingli modules in this important project", said Dr. Karl Kuhlmann, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SAG Solarstrom AG. According to the press release, Yingli Green Energy has already supplied a total of 68 MW of PV modules to SAG for projects throughout Europe through a series of supply agreements over the past four years. Mr. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and CEO of Yingli Green Energy, said: "With an attractive feed-in tariff, we believe the Czech Republic will play an increasingly important role in the global PV market in Europe."

2009-06-12   Courtesy: Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH

Trina Solar to open warehouse in Oakland, California

2.4 MW solar roof with Trina panels at Atlantic City

Trina Solar Limited (Changzhou, China), a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) products from the production of ingots, wafers and cells to the assembly of PV modules, on June 8th, 2009 announced the establishment of a warehouse operation in The Port of Oakland, California. According to the press release, the warehouse is strategically located in the state of California, which in 2008 had a total of 530 megawatts (MW) of the estimated 800 MW of grid-tied PV capacity in the United States.  With planned service to begin in June of 2009, the warehouse is expected to strengthen Trina Solar's distribution network in North America by allowing the company to respond more swiftly to customer delivery requests. "We are pleased to announce the establishment of our first warehouse in North America, which will help to accommodate the growing demand for our products, pursue new relationships and better serve our customers", said Arturo Herrero, Trina Solar's Vice President of sales and marketing. "In addition, we view the outlook for PV installations in the United States as positive given the national promotion of a green economy to secure energy independence and create green jobs."

2009-06-11   Courtesy: Trina Solar Limited   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Trina Solar Limited

SunPower's Dr. Richard Swanson wins SEIA Industry Innovator Award

SunPower's CTO Dr. Richard Swanson

On June 8th, 2009, Dr. Richard Swanson, President and Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of SunPower Corporation, was honored with a SEIA Industry Innovation Award at the PV America conference. Dr. Swanson was recognized by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA; Washington, D.C.) for his outstanding achievements in the development of SunPower's high-efficiency, all-back contact solar cell, SunPower reports in a press release.  Swanson is one of the world's most-recognized leaders in the advancement of photovoltaics (PV) and a pioneer in commercializing cost-effective PV power systems, SunPower emphasizes. In 2006, he was honored with the prestigious Becquerel Prize for Outstanding Merits in Photovoltaics and in 2002, Swanson was presented with the William R. Cherry Award by the IEEE for outstanding contributions to the photovoltaic field.



Award recognizes record-breaking solar cell efficiency

"The rapidly growing solar power industry is emerging as an important contributor to our sustainable energy future", said Swanson. "Homeowners, commercial businesses and utilities are coming to rely on solar to help meet their energy needs. We at SunPower are proud to be a part of this dynamic and important emerging industry." Swanson had founded SunPower in 1985 to develop and commercialize cost-effective, high-efficiency photovoltaic power systems. In 2003, SunPower announced that its all back-contact cell reached efficiencies of more than 20 percent, achieving up to 50 percent more energy than conventional solar cells. In 2008, the company announced that it had produced a full-scale, five inch prototype solar cell with world-record efficiency of 23.4 percent in the lab. The SEIA Industry Innovation Award recognizes entrepreneurs, scientists and advocates with the vision to improve the quality and efficiency of solar technology.

2009-06-11   Courtesy: SunPower Corporation   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SunPower Corporation

PG&E contracts with NextLight for 230 MW of renewable power for energy customers in California

Artist's rendering of the AV Solar Ranch (SunPower T20 Tracker)

The US electric utility Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E; San Francisco, California) on June 5th, 2009 announced that it had entered into a contract with AV Solar Ranch 1, LLC, a subsidiary of NextLight Renewable Power, LLC (San Francisco), for a capacity of 230 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) power. On average, the projected solar plant is expected to produce 592 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable electricity each year for PG&E customers throughout northern and central California.   According to the press release, NextLight's project will feature state-of-the-art, commercially proven photovoltaic technology and be located in the Antelope Valley, California. The solar power plant is expected to begin electricity delivery in 2011 and to be fully operational by late 2013.


PG&E's third major solar contract PG&E this year

"This agreement will help increase the amount of clean energy we provide to our customers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said John Conway, Senior Vice President of energy supply for PG&E. "NextLight is pleased to contract with PG&E for the output of the AV Solar Ranch 1 project", said Frank DeRosa, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NextLight. "The project will provide cost-effective electricity to PG&E's customers, create jobs and local economic benefits for the Antelope Valley, and contribute to California's renewable energy goals." According to the press release, this is the third major solar contract PG&E has signed this year. On average, half of the electricity PG&E delivers to its customers comes from carbon-free generating sources, the company reports.

2009-06-10   Courtesy: Pacific Gas and Electric Company   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: NextLight Renewable Power, LLC

Sinosol AG realized the first 1 MW solar park with new thin-film modules from Malibu

Solar park Le Lauzet under construction.

Sinosol AG (Frankfurt am Main; Stuttgart) has realized the first 1MWp solar park as a planner and general contractor for Malibu GmbH & Co. KG, a joint venture of Schüco International KG and E. ON AG, using the new thin-film modules from Malibu. In a record construction period of four weeks the first section of the solar park, that will have a total installed power of up to 5 MWp, has been realized on the challenging 20 ha site in the mountains of southern France, Sinosol reports in a press release. The turn-key work was finished on time for the official inauguration of the Malibu plant in Osterweddingen on June 4th, 2009. Besides the 2.675 thin-film modules from Malibu, Sinosol has been using inverters from SMA and proprietary Sinosol rack technology "SolBase" in the project. 


'We are proud to have implemented this reference project for MALIBU successfully and on time. The Malibu modules represent state-of-the-art thin-film technology and have very positive features for the use in large projects. The installed fixing rail on the back of the frameless PV module, so called 'back-rails', have been designed excellently by Malibu for an easy installation on the bearing system is an example for the importance Malibu has given on the design and construction of product details", said Raphael Krause, member of the Executive Board of Sinosol AG.

"With Sinosol we have gone for an established and experienced provider of turnkey photovoltaic systems who has also excellent references for challenging sites. We are very satisfied with the results of this first joint project", states Konrad Kaiser, Managing Director of Malibu and of Schüco's solar division.

2009-06-09   Courtesy: Sinosol AG   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: E.ON Climate & Renewables

Marlboro Township Municipal Utilities Authorities deploys 900 kW solar power array using Sharp Solar panels

MTMUA's solar PV array at Marlboro, New Jersey.

The Marlboro Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MTMUA; Marlboro, New Jersey) has deployed a 900 kilowatt (kW) solar power array using photovoltaic (PV) panels by Sharp Solar. The solar power plant is to enable the MTMUA to meet nearly 40 percent of its electricity needs with emissions-free solar-generated power.   Marlboro Township's Mayor Jonathan Hornik, Peter Wersinger, Executive Director, Michael Messinger, Chairman, and the other Commissioners and staff of the Marlboro Township Municipal Utilities Authority (MTMUA) were present in dedicating the array, which is said to be one of the largest of its kind in the East of the United States. Sited on three acres of land owned by the MTMUA and Marlboro Township, this solar energy system, comprised of 4,186 Sharp Solar modules, had been designed by Advanced Solar Products, Inc. (ASP) of Ringoes, New Jersey, and installed by Barrier Electric Company, Inc. of Bayonne, New Jersey.


1.3 million kWh of solar electricity expected annually

According to the press release, the MTMUA PV system is accruing tremendous economic and environmental benefits. It is expected to generate over 1.3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean electric power each year, meeting nearly 40 percent of the MTMUA's power needs. Also, it will generate annual revenues and avoided power costs of 775,000 - 900,000 US-dollars, resulting in net average yearly savings of 300,000 - 400,000 US-dollars to the Authority, Sharp Solar reports. Additionally, on an annual basis, this solar energy system is expected to reduce New Jersey's CO2 emissions by more than 4,200,000 pounds, SO2 emissions by 28,000 pounds, and NO2 emissions by 18,000 pounds. "We're thrilled to be deploying a significant solar array to power our water treatment and distribution operations; and pleased that it'll be cash-flow positive from day one", said Peter Wersinger. "Based on the terrific performance of this photovoltaic (PV) energy system, the MTMUA is looking to expand its use of solar power in the months ahead."

Photovoltaic power plant creates jobs and benefits local and regional economy as well

Michael Messinger, Chairman of the Marlboro Township Municipal Utilities Authority, said about the project: "From the providers and installers of solar products, to the electricians who connected and wired the installations, to the metal fitters who fabricated the mounting system right here in New Jersey, this clean energy project is delivering local and regional economic development benefits." Ron Kenedi, Vice President of Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group, added: "Sharp is pleased to be helping Marlboro Township achieve its sustainability energy goals. Clean tech projects such as this one are not only healthy for our environment - they're healthy for our economy."

2009-06-09   Courtesy: Sharp Electronics Corp.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Sharp Electronics Corp.

Echelon's technology incorporated into SMA solar inverters

Echelon' technology is being used in solar energy installations by SMA America.

Echelon Corporation (San Jose, California) on June 2nd, 2009 announced that its "LonWorks" technology is being used in solar energy installations by SMA America, Inc., a subsidiary of the German solar inverter manufacturer SMA Solar Technology AG (Niestetal). Echelon's "i.LON SmartServer," equipped with communications drivers for SMA's inverters, is used to monitor the health of and measure the electricity generated by the panels in a solar array for service, reporting, and verification purposes, Echelon reports.   This is said to help maintain an efficient operation or a photovoltaic (PV) system. According to the press release, SMA is using the "i.LON SmartServer" with their "Sunny Central 250U" and "Sunny Tower" inverters.



Data reliability and compatibility in renewable energy generation

"The i.LON SmartServer is perfect for developing and deploying all types of energy management solutions, including solar and other alternative energy solutions", said Anders Axelsson, Echelon's Senior Vice-President of sales and marketing. Jeffrey Philpott, Director of Marketing for SMA America, Inc., commented: "Echelon's technology provides a high level of reliability and flexibility, which we considered necessary in order to offer a more efficient and diverse solution to our customers." According to the press release, the "i.LON SmartServer" can automatically read data from the inverters make them accessible via standard web-based and local control protocols, enabling the data to be utilized by existing Energy Management Systems (EMS) and Building Management Systems (BMS). This revenue grade power generation data can be used for energy verification and rebate programs. In addition to inverter monitoring, Echelon reports that its "i.LON SmartServer" is able to provide a standard gateway to energy monitoring and energy demand management.

2009-06-08   Courtesy: Echelon Corporation   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Echelon Corporation

Applied Materials announces IEC certification of world's largest solar panels

SunFab production line at a facility of Green Energy Technology

Applied Materials, Inc. (Santa Clara, California), on May 29th, 2009 announced that the 5.7 square meter solar photovoltaic (PV) modules produced by its "SunFab" thin film line had been awarded the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) certification, thereby validating their exceptional performance under extended outdoor exposure. The Certification of the "SunFab" modules, the world's largest available solar PV panels, unleashes an opportunity for the widespread incorporation of those panels in utility-scale, thin film solar farms to further drive down the price of clean electricity, the company reports.   "We expect 5.7 square meter modules to become the standard for utility-scale PV power", said Dr. Randhir Thakur, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Applied Materials' Display and "SunFab" Solar Business Group. "Applying SunFab technology to ultra-large modules creates an unprecedented opportunity to reduce both manufacturing and installation costs, transforming solar PV into a long-term solution to provide the world with affordable energy from a renewable source."


New testing capability put in place for certification of large-format modules

According to the press release, the certification had been awarded by TÜV InterCert (Reggio Emilia, Italy and Bonn, Germany) and confirms that the modules meet IEC standards 61646 and 61730. "Applied's 5.7 square meter modules are four times bigger than anything we've ever tested", said Feridoon Sergizzarea, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TÜV InterCert. "We made modifications to the laboratory and added equipment to enable us to test modules this large." Applied reports that its technology and engineering expertise in flat-panel display and architectural glass systems had enabled it to deliver the critical uniform conversion properties required across large areas. An innovative, integrated bonded rail support structure is said to strengthen the module, allowing it to withstand wind and seismic loads while enabling the reduction of installation costs by greatly simplifying the mounting structure.

2009-06-08   Courtesy: Applied Materials, Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Green Energy Technology Inc., Ltd.

ISES Solar World Congress 2009: solutions to global energy crisis

Abstracts received from 55 countries for the ISES Solar World Congress 2009.

World leaders in solar energy will present the latest findings in renewable energy resources at the biennial ISES Solar World Congress 2009 that will be held in Johannesburg, from 11 -14 October. The 29th ISES Solar World Congress 2009 will be hosted by the International Solar Energy Society (ISES) together with the Sustainable Energy Society of Southern Africa (SESSA). Subject of the Congress is: "Renewable Energy: Shaping our future". One of the major draw cards is Dr. Hermann Scheer from Germany recipient of the prestigious Karl W Böer Solar Energy Medal of Merit who will share his expertise on feed in tariffs, ISES reports in a press release. Scheer is a world pioneer in the promotion of Solar Energy in all its forms. He also established the International Renewable Energy Agency "IRENA", which South Africa is expected to join soon.   Other confirmed keynote speakers include the controversial South African, Prof. Vivian Alberts, who will discuss his reasons for moving his thin film solar panel enterprise to Germany, Prof Eike Weber of Fraunhofer Solar Energy Institute in Freiburg, who will address grid pricing parity for concentrating PV. ISES president, Dr Monica Oliphant from Australia will open the congress. Oliphant has made important inputs to public hearings in South Africa on the renewable energy feed-in tariff, ISES reports in the press release.




South Africa takes the lead with no less than 65 submissions

With more than 370 abstracts received from 55 countries, the ISES Solar World Congress 2009 promises to highlight major advances and opportunities in the field of renewable energy. According to the press release South Africa takes the lead with no less than 65 submissions, with China, Germany, Brazil and Australia not far behind. 26 abstracts were submitted by speakers from ten African countries. This enthusiasm from African scientists and researchers to share their findings is welcomed with great optimism that solutions for the African continent’s energy needs can be found in Africa, ISES emphasizes in its press release.


Renewable Energy Expo will run parallel to the congress

Delegates will be able to join a selection of technical and leisure tours on October 15th and 16th. The trade exhibition "Renewable Energy Expo" will run parallel to the congress. This exhibition is to contribute towards bridging the gap between science and consumers, ISES reports in the press release.

More information about the program and speakers is expected shortly and will be available at http://www.swc2009.co.za/

2009-06-07   Courtesy: International Solar Energy Society (ISES)   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: International Solar Energy Society (ISES)

SEIA comments on Obama's speech at Nellis Airforce base: With the right policies, every American can install solar energy systems

Solar PV installation at Nellis Air Force Base.

Rhone Resch, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA; Washington, DC) on May 27th, 2009 released a statement on President Barack Obama's tour of the solar installation at Nellis Air Force Base and on his announcement of the amount of economic stimulus funding for solar and geothermal projects.  "President Obama expressed great confidence in the solar energy industry as an emerging jobs engine when he signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at a solar installation in Colorado 100 days ago," Resch said. "The Nellis Air Force Base solar installation is saving U.S. taxpayers about 1 million US-dollars per year in energy costs. With the right policies, every American can install solar on their home or business and take advantage of these savings with a technology that is ready now, while doing their part to reduce pollution and increase our energy independence."


Solar power plants to create new jobs and to fight climate change

President Obama said that the solar power plant at the Nellis Airforce base had created 200 jobs during its 2-year construction. "We have seen this job creation momentum in action as the solar industry is currently playing an important role in our economy by helping revive U.S. manufacturing and growing local economies," Resch said. "In Oregon, SolarWorld opened a manufacturing facility that will eventually employ 1,000 workers. Meanwhile, in New Mexico, SCHOTT Solar opened a manufacturing facility earlier this month that has plans to eventually employ up to 1,500 workers. Dow Corning just today announced it has expanded its manufacturing operations in Michigan, and states such as Tennessee are increasing their investment in solar." President Obama lauded the solar power plant at the Nellis Air Force base: "This base serves as a shining example of what's possible when we harness the power of clean, renewable energy to build a new, firmer foundation for economic growth."

2009-06-05   Courtesy: SEIA   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: U.S. Air Force

PV manufacturing: Results of Cell Award 2009 are out

International solar technology awards (cellaward).

The Cell Award event at Intersolar Munich on May 28 highlighted some of the best tools, technologies and regions from the PV manufacturing elite. The event was initiated to address the need for an independently-judged platform upon which to assess the most successful and esteemed technologies and potentials in the solar industry. The International Solar Technology Awards are organised by a group of leading solar media, research organisations and industry associations. Award winners were determined by the combination of scores from an expert judging panel and a popular vote. The judging committee included senior technical experts from the Fraunhofer ISE, Moser Baer, SolarWorld, Q-Cells, Suntech, and ChinaSunergy. 


Driving production costs down on the path to grid-parity

The awards were presented by leading industry representatives, including Nick Sarno, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing at LDK Solar; Holger von Hebel, President of ersol; Dr Uros Merc, CEO of Bisol; Eleni Despotou, Policy Director and Deputy Secretary General of EPIA; and Jerry Stokes, President of Suntech Europe. "Technological developments are at the heart of driving production costs down to ensure the photovoltaics industry continues on its path to grid-parity and beyond", said LDK's Sarno. "It was a pleasure to be involved in the Cell Award ceremony and congratulate the finalists and winners of the categories that thousands of people in the PV industry voted for."


7 awards recognizing best tools, technologies and regions

In the seven categories, the organisers came up with a shortlist of two or three entries per category. The winners of the 2009 Cell Award are:

- Industry Choice Award: BTU International; Meridian in-line diffusion system

- Best technical product for module assembly: EFD: PV cell ribbon and bus bar methodology

- Best process technology c-Si cell manufacturing lines: SiXtron: SunBox silane-free coating system

- Best technical product for thin-film module manufacturing: Oerlikon Solar: KAI 1200 PECVD system

- Best technology for silicon feedstock and wafer processes: tec5: VINSPEC SP in-Line process control

- Best region for manufacturing solar technologies: IMG Saxony: Solar Valley


- Green Solar Manufacturing Award: Linde Electronics: Onsite Fluorine Generator

Overall, the Awards were a huge success, with several of the entrants reiterating their intention to not only enter the awards again next year, but also to spread the word of the potential visibility in the industry that being part of the awards can offer. Entries for the 2010 Cell Award will open in September during the 24th EU PVSEC. Further details will be available in September on http://www.cellaward.com.

2009-06-04   Courtesy: Photovoltaics International   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Photovoltaics International

SCHOTT Solar and SolarEdge enter design partnership to develop photovoltaic power harvesting system

Novel power harvesting system by SolarEdge.

SCHOTT Solar AG (Alzenau, Germany) and SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (Herzelia, Israel), a provider of smart, holistic photovoltaic (PV) power harvesting and monitoring solutions, on May 29th, 2009 announced that they had signed a design partnership agreement to develop and test a novel PV panel-integrated power harvesting system embedded directly into SCHOTT Solar's PV modules. The outcome of the joint efforts is expected to maximize the power generation throughout the solar lifecycle while dramatically reducing complexity and costs.   While the solar industry has taken enormous strides to speed cell efficiency and other innovations, there are widely adopted array designs and system architectures that inherently create room for improvement, the companies believe. SolarEdge reports that issues such as poor roof utilization, fire and maintenance safety issues and ineffective panel theft prevention measures can be avoided.



Active electronics embedded directly into solar panels to achieve optimal power yield

"SolarEdge is an innovative company offering an original multi-disciplinary system solution that we at SCHOTT Solar are extremely impressed with", said Jürgen Fortenbacher, Head Strategy & Business Development at SCHOTT Solar. "We believe that the outcome of our partnership will significantly enhance power output." According to the press release, SCHOTT Solar is embedding SolarEdge's active electronics directly into its panels in order to achieve optimal power yield while reducing installation and maintenance challenges and costs. "We are extremely honored to work with a leading industry player such as SCHOTT Solar", said Guy Sella, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder of SolarEdge. "By combining both our technologies we will be able to make PV technology more efficient while at the same time reducing costs." The two partner companies report that they are currently testing the combined technologies.

2009-06-04   Courtesy: SCHOTT Solar AG; SolarEdge   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: SolarEdge

Signet Solar to supply thin-film solar panels (7.7 MW) to Italian based Moncada Energy Group

Thin-film solar panels by Signet Solar.

Signet Solar Inc. (Menlo Park, California) and Moncada Energy Group (Aragona, Italy) on May 28th, 2009 announced that the companies had entered into a solar supply agreement. According to the terms of the contract, Signet Solar is to supply a minimum of 7.7 Megawatt peak (MWp) of its "Gen 8.5" thin film modules before the end of 2009. The companies plan to continue their supply relationship in 2010 and beyond.   Moncada, the largest Sicilian producer of wind power (over 100 MW) with projects focused in renewable energy across all of Europe, plans to deploy the purchased thin film modules in large solar photovoltaic (PV) farms beneath the towers of their wind farms to allow both the panels and the wind turbines to use the same infrastructure in place to collect energy for, what Moncada calls, "double-harvesting renewable energy."


Low-cost thin-film modules to provide affordable green energy

"Our deployments will be the world's first large scale installation of certified 'Gen 8.5' size (2.2 m x 2.6 m) modules," said Salvatore Moncada, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Moncada Energy Group. "We believe that using these large modules in solar farms will allow for the lowest cost structure per installed watt due to the advances Signet Solar has made in thin film technology and module efficiency, and we are excited to work with Signet over the long term." "We are thoroughly excited to work with Moncada Energy Group, who falls perfectly into our strategy of being the world's leader in providing thin film PV solutions for solar farms", said Gunter Ziegenbalg, Managing Director of Signet Solar. "We believe this kind of commitment is a testament to our extremely strong quality and reliability, and our customer first approach."

2009-06-04   Courtesy: Signet Solar Inc.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Signet Solar

Spain: Abengoa Solar begins construction on Extremadura's second CSP plant

Abengoa Solar Trough.

Abengoa Solar S.A. (Sevilla, Spain) on May 26th, 2009 announced that it had begun with the construction of its second concentrating solar power (CSP) plant in the town of Logrosán after obtaining the required building permits. According to the press release, the new parabolic trough technology plant will have a power output capacity of 50 megawatts (MW), enough to power approximately 25,000 households. This could prevent the emission of 31,400 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere annually, Abengoa reports.  The parabolic trough technology had been developed by the company in recent years and has been tested at the Solúcar Platform plants in Sanlúcar la Mayor, Seville. Pedro Robles, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Abengoa Solar Spain, expressed his satisfaction with the start-up of the first two projects in Extremadura: "After having made the necessary investments involved in purchasing land and the primary equipment, we can today affirm that Extremadura will enjoy two state-of-the-art clean energy plants. Both power stations will be part of the future 'Extremadura Solar Platform,' which will make the most of the sun, one of the region's greatest natural resources."

2009-06-03   Courtesy: Abengoa Solar S.A.   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Abengoa Solar S.A.

Lidl, Enfinity NV and SolarMarkt AG to install solar PV plants on rooftops throughout Europe

Solar PV system on the roof of the Lidl logistics centre in Hartheim (1,2 MW).

The company Lidl Stiftung, based in Neckarsulm, Germany, has entered into a framework agreement with Enfinity N.V. from Waregem, Belgium, and with SolarMarkt AG from Freiburg, Germany. The agreement relates to the installation and maintenance of solar energy systems on logistics centres of Lidl in Europe. The general project will be realised through a joint venture of the companies SolarMarkt and Enfinity, based in Frankfurt am Main. Lidl is planning to make an investment in the three-digit millions range in solar photovoltaic systems for the generation of electricity on the buildings of its European subsidiaries.  


1,2 MW PV system on a logistics centre connected to the grid since 2006

Lidl is one of the leading discount food supermarkets in many European countries and owns numerous buildings used for logistics and sales purposes. In the future, Lidl will focus on solar technology for the generation of environmentally friendly electricity. Under the motto "On the road to tomorrow" Lidl has already been contributing to the protection of the environment and the improvement of energy efficiency. As early as in 2006, for instance, a solar PV system on the roof of the Lidl logistics centre in Hartheim was put into operation.

The quality of the components and of the design is of the utmost importance for the construction of the system. Walter Leithold, CEO of SolarMarkt AG, explains: "Thanks to our 24 years’ experience in the construction of photovoltaic systems, we know exactly what is required to create high-performance and reliable systems. In addition to the skills of our designers, the fact that we can fall back on our excellent know-how in the field of technically challenging roof-mounted systems is a considerable advantage".

"Enfinity provides extensive regional experience and knowledge of the markets in the countries where the solar systems for Lidl will be constructed. Our experience in the fields of financing, construction and operating, combined with a highly qualified staff, will contribute to the success of this trans-European project", says Gino Van Neer, CEO Enfinity N.V.

Enfinity and SolarMarkt AG will use special substructure systems and different solar module types for the large roof surfaces, which will guarantee the successful operation of the solar systems on a long-term basis. "We developed a complete package for Lidl and will be operating the systems after their installation", explains Dr. Karl Bangert, manager of Enfinity Germany. Preparations for the installation of the solar systems are already underway and the works will start in several countries in the months to come. In addition to Germany, the systems will also be installed in Belgium, Italy, Spain, France, the Czech Republic and Bulgaria.

2009-06-03   Courtesy: LIDL Stiftung, Enfinity N.V.; SolarMarkt AG   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Solar-Fabrik AG

SEIA releases guide on federal tax credits to facilitate financing of solar energy systems for homeowners, companies and utilities

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA; Washington, DC) on May 27th, 2009 announced that it had released "Version 3.0" of its solar tax guide. The paper explains the new federal incentives for solar energy and is expected to help SEIA's approximately 1000 member companies to better advise customers that are interested in installing solar at their homes and businesses.   The updated guide, dubbed "Guide to Federal Tax Incentives for Solar Energy," includes all provisions of the recently passed US economic stimulus bill, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act. SEIA reports that the guide is available to all of its members.


Guideline helps to take advantage of solar tax incentives

Federal tax incentives covered in the SEIA guide include the 30-percent solar investment tax credit extended for 8 years through 2016, removal of the 2,000 US-dollar cap on residential photovoltaic (PV) and solar water heating systems, and how the federal credit can be used with state and local incentives. "I was able to install solar panels on my own home in 2006 because of tax incentives", said SEIA President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rhone Resch. "With the expansion of tax breaks that are now available, there has never been a better time to install solar at your home or business and take advantage of the best clean energy value available." SEIA's Frequently-Asked Questions for tax incentives can be found at http://seia.org/galleries/pdf/SEIATaxManual_v3-0_FAQ.pdf

2009-06-03   Courtesy: SEIA   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH

Masdar connects 10 MW PV plant to the Abu Dhabi grid

Sheikh Diab bin Zayed Al Nahyan (left) and Dr. Sultan Al Jaber in front of the plant.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, His Highness Sheikh Diab bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA) on May 31st, 2009 inaugurated Masdar’s 10 MW power plant, marking the integration of the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in the Middle East to the Abu Dhabi municipal grid. The state-of-the-art PV plant with a capacity of 10MW will produce clean solar electricity, which is an annual carbon savings of 15,000 tons - the equivalent of taking 3,300 cars off Abu Dhabi’s roads each year.   The solar power plant will provide clean energy to the temporary Masdar site administration facilities, and power the ongoing construction activities of Masdar City. In addition, the plant will supply all the energy needs of The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, a graduate-level scientific institution dedicated to renewable energy study, which opens in late 2009.




17,500 MWh of clean energy each year

The 10 MW plant, consisting of 87,777 panels (50% thin film and 50% crystalline silicon) is projected to generate 17,500 MWh of clean energy each year (with a single kWh of clean energy being the carbon-offset equivalent of 0.8 kg depending on an area's network and its energy-producing source.) With the construction costing Dhs185m (m) at an installed power capacity of 10 MW, the plant is also one of the most cost-efficient PV installations in the world in terms of its projected power output.


An important milestone in the development of Masdar City

"Masdar’s 10MW solar power plant is a testament to our leadership’s dedication to the advancement of renewable energy. The connection of this plant marks an important milestone in the development of Masdar City and in our emirate’s history", said Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar. "We believe this is just the first delivery of the rich potential of solar energy and we will continue to deliver clean sources of energy to Abu Dhabi and beyond."

The connection of the 10MW solar power plant to Abu Dhabi’s electrical grid was a joint effort by Masdar, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) and the Emirate’s regulatory body, the Regulation and Supervision Bureau. ADDC, Abu Dhabi’s main grid holder is responsible for operating and developing the distribution networks within the emirate.

"Bringing new, clean sources of energy to the people of Abu Dhabi is an exciting advancement for Abu Dhabi Distribution Company", said Mr. Ahmed Al Mureikhi, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Distribution Company. "We know that the next generation of electricity distribution means better integration with renewable energy sources and we are proud to have taken that step with Masdar".

The Regulation and Supervision Bureau, which regulates and awards licensing for power generation sources in Abu Dhabi, supplied Masdar with its first licence for renewable energy power. "This is a great example of entities in Abu Dhabi working together to find solutions that will advance the emirate’s goal of providing clean energy on a large scale. "We are proud to be part of this landmark achievement", said Mr. Nick Carter, Director General, Regulation and Supervision Bureau.


Sustainable construction

Construction on the 212,000 square meter plant commenced in August 2008 and was designed and constructed by Enviromena Power Systems. The 10MW plant was built using sustainable construction practices, including innovative techniques such as using concrete with a high slag content (GGBS) for civil works, reusing materials extensively across the site and avoiding environmentally unfriendly construction materials such as bitumen and polystyrene. Rigorous engineering design also minimized the total amount of steel used across the site.
Further information http://www.masdar.ae

2009-06-02   Courtesy: Masdar   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH
Picture Courtesy: Masdar

BP Solar and RGE Energy AG announce one of the world's largest solar installations in Germany

RGE Energy AG (Frankfurt/Main) is partnering with BP Solar in planning one of the world's largest solar projects, BP solar reports in a press release. The large-scale PV installation with over 46 megawatt peak (MWp) will be built in Koethen, Saxony-Anhalt. Around 210,000 crystalline photovoltaic modules with an output of 220 watt peak each will be supplied by BP Solar and installed by RGE Energy AG. Reyad Fezzani, CEO of BP Solar, and Elias Issa, CEO of RGE Energy AG, announced the news in Munich at 'Intersolar', the world's largest solar exhibition. 

Around 43,000 megawatt hours of solar electricity per year

The project launch is planned for the third quarter of 2009, the approval procedure is being processed currently, and by the end of the year, all BP Solar modules are set to be installed. The planned solar system due to BP solar will deliver around 43,000 megawatt hours per year of green electricity. This is enough to yearly supply about 11,500 four-people-households with electricity and to save around 25,600 tons of CO2 emissions.


BP Solar offering a guarantee on yield of its solar modules

The project in Koethen is part of a cooperation agreement between the two companies that covers the installation of solar projects totalling 66 megawatts (MW) output. In addition to Koethen, other projects planned include a 15 MW solar system at Eberswalde airport and an option for another 15 MW. Due to the high quality project development standards that RGE Energy AG has demonstrated, BP Solar is offering a guarantee on yield for the solar modules it supplies. Until now this has been reserved for turn-key projects developed by BP Solar. If the system does not deliver the overall energy yields guaranteed by BP Solar, BP Solar will cover the difference on the basis of the currently valid feed-in tariff.

"BP Solar is playing an important role in delivering utility-scale solar installations. Our strategy is to offer our customers the lowest cost in cents per kWh over the life of a solar system. With the additional yield guarantee, we are standing behind the quality of our product. We are convinced that our cooperation with RGE Energy AG will benefit us greatly in the German market, a market we strongly value", Reyad Fezzani explains, "This project also emphasises our view that PV crystalline technology will continue to be a leader in the solar sector."

"As a company with a long-standing experience in developing projects of large-scale solar power plants, we constantly focus on the highest quality and safety standards of our projects. This approach applies not only to the financing, project planning, installation and security concept of the solar system, but equally to the quality of installed solar modules", says Elias Issa, "We're therefore delighted to have found with BP Solar a very reliable and strong partner for our projects."

2009-06-01   Courtesy: BP Solar; RGE Energy   Solarserver.de   © Heindl Server GmbH