PV Tech’s preliminary analysis of global PV manufacturing expansion plans for the month of July, 2015 provide a longer-term picture to future expansions rather than more immediate decisions, underlying a lull in ‘meaningful’ capacity additions.
Belectric’s Energy Buffer Unit (EBU) has been successfully prequalified for 1.3MW frequency response by a German transmission network operator (TNO) that provides frequency response balancing for reliable grid operation when taking into account large quantities of renewable energy being connected to grid. Belectric’s EBU system delivers a state-of-the-art battery based energy storage system in a container solution.
Ecoppia, a developer of robotic, water-free PV panel cleaning solutions has introduced its advanced E4 control system. With the integration of real-time and forecasted information on precipitation, cloudiness and air quality, Ecoppia now offers a more intelligent and reliable operation, and provides a comprehensive view of site conditions, helping site managers make better-informed decisions on cleaning schedules.
Mounting systems manufacturer Renusol has extended its MetaSole mounting solution to include the new MS+ Portrait, which is capable of fixing photovoltaic modules to roofs in portrait orientation.
The software provider TabTool and the photovoltaic plant manager greentech have developed an innovative mobile solution for maintenance, inspection and repair management for PV systems.
Last week the UN hosted the first of three crucially important global development conferences this year, culminating in the COP21 climate change talks in December. Reporting on the event, Alexander Lagaaij saw evidence of an appetite for cooperation, but still no high-level understanding of the potential of solar energy to put the world on a more sustainable path.
By Dr. Joris Libal & Dr. Radovan Kopecek, ISC Konstanz
PV technologists often face the question of what the next-generation solar cell work-horse will look like. Radovan Kopecek and Joris Libal of ISC Konstanz offer some answers.
PV's continued growth worldwide is creating fresh opportunities for investment in new and enlarged production facilities. But as Matthias Grossman writes, the costs and risks associated with entering new markets mean caution is required by investors.
As Europe seeks ways to impove the energy efficiency of its building stock, a key contributor to carbon emissions, building-integrated photovoltaics technology could offer some answers, writes Silke Krawietz.
Recent reports of tigthening supply and falling polysilicon prices indicate that PV module manufacturers could be entering a period of improved profitability not seen for the last three years, writes Mark Osborne.
