The University of Seville, the Social Council and the Focus-Abengoa Foundation have awarded the 9th “Javier Benjumea Puigcerver” research prize to Eduardo Fernández Camacho for his applied research on the increase in performance of solar-thermal plants through predictive control. The prize was awarded to the university professor on the basis that his submitted work was of “extraordinary scientific value” to the globally important issue of energy supply.
Innotech Solar (ITS) and CEO Thor-Christian Tuv have decided to part ways after identifying differing opinions on the company’s future growth and expansion. The company’s board is now focusing on creating a new long-term growth strategy to meet the dynamic challenges of the photovoltaic industry. The ITS board views the introduction of new skills and expertise as an important priority, and has appointed David Hogg to the role of CEO at Innotech Solar with immediate effect.
Semiconductor manufacturer Soitec has completed its acquisition of Soitec Solar, formerly Concentrix Solar. The purchase process began in 2009 and Soitec has finalized the acquisition of the remaining shares.
In keeping with its 20% increase in turnover for 2011 and to boost its international presence, DEGERenergie has recruited Florian Falk Naumann as county manager for Australia. DEGERenergie is expecting its MLD technology to flourish in the Australian climate under the government's “Clean Energy Future” scheme.
As energy prices continue to climb and solar rebates continue to attract a steady stream of customers, Antaris Solar has hired Robert McNamara as its new general manager for the United States in order to manage the regions increasing customer base. McNamara brings solar sales and management experience to his new role, coming from Solar Wholesale Products, which he led as president.
Adept Technology has hired Robert Malley, Jr. to fill the position of vice president for global operations. He will be responsible for planning and managing all aspects of Adept’s worldwide operations in support of the company’s strategic objectives to deliver its robotics systems and services to enable its customers to achieve precision, quality and productivity in their assembly, handling and packaging processes.
Dr. Jan Withag, chairman of Solar Millennium’s management board, announced his resignation from all his offices taking effect on March 8. His announcement comes a week after insolvency proceedings for Solar Millennium AG commenced, overseen by the local Court of Fürth.
DEGERenergie has hired several new key personnel to its international offices in order to better serve, and build better relationships, with its customers. Customers in Germany and other European countries will now be serviced by Hendrik Walter and Steffen Bahlinger.
The US Department of Energy’s (DoE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has appointed Ken Powers as its new deputy laboratory director and chief operating officer, effective March 5.
MiaSolé noted that it had welcomed a new member to its executive management team with the selection of Richard Hossfeld as VP of global business development and sales. Hossfeld previously served as VP of business development for both First Solar and Fluidic Energy and holds experience in developing and leading market entry and go-to market strategies in North America, Asia and Latin America. Before his appointment at First Solar, Hossfeld was a corporate lawyer with Cravath, Swaine & Moore.
