Laser micromachining equipment supplier 3D-Micromac has secured an order from REC Group to supply three ‘microCELL’ OTF laser systems for PERC (Passivate Emitter Rear Contact) solar cells from integrated PV module manufacturer REC Group.
Taiwan-based solar cell and wafer producers had been impacted by a major slowdown in PV project development in China in the third quarter of 2016. However, signs of a recovery emerged at the beginning of the fourth quarter and escalated further in November.
Heraeus Photovoltaics president, Andreas Liebheit has been appointed as the vice chairman of the Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association (APVIA), which was founded in Singapore in 2011.
Research at the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP), based at The University of New South Wales (UNSW) has reported a 12.1% efficiency rating for a 16 cm2 perovskite solar cell, partially funded by Suntech and Trina Solar and AUD$3.6 million in funding through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s (ARENA).
Finland-based energy firm Fortum has invested €5.2 million in Exeger Sweden AB, dye-sensitized solar cell start-up to help support the launch of commercial products in 2017.
Leading PV manufacturing equipment supplier Meyer Burger Technology has made some major made changes to its senior management and plans for new Board directors, led by the stepping down of CEO for 14 years, Peter Pauli.
Specialist polysilicon market research firm, Bernreuter Research has warned of continued overcapacity that will force pricing down below many producers' cash cost levels and threatens the existence of high-cost producers in 2018.
PV Tech can reveal the preliminary Top 5 solar module manufacturers in 2016, based as usual on final shipment guidance from third quarter financial results.