Americas

The major US residential installer has reported a surge in both revenues and earnings during Q2 2020, leading it to claim it is not only surviving the COVID-19 pandemic, but thriving.

A round-up of recent developments in the US, where EDF Renewables strikes a 22-year PPA in Nevada and First Solar announces senior leadership changes.

Sections of the US residential solar industry are on track to shake off the economic effects of COVID-19 and record positive figures for the remainder of the year.

Major polysilicon producer Wacker Chemie has reported polysilicon sales of €152.5 million in the second quarter of 2020, a new low, due to weak demand and lower utilisation rates, resulting in losses of €35 million for its polysilicon division.

Japanese gas utility Tokyo Gas has announced its entry to the US solar market, acquiring a prospective 500MWac solar farm in Texas.

Neoen’s solar revenues soared by 34% in H1 2020 as the independent power producer (IPP) reaffirmed its goal of having 5GW in operation or construction by the end of next year.

San Antonio, Texas-based utility CPS Energy is advancing efforts to diversify its generation portfolio as it plans to add up to 900MW of solar, 50MW of battery storage and 500MW of new technology solutions.

NextEra Energy capitalised on strong demand for low-cost renewables in the second quarter, adding 1,730MW to its pipeline in three months.

US independent power producer sPower has concluded financing for its largest project to date after securing a US$700 million construction/term loan.

Duke Energy Renewables has switched on its 200MWac Rambler Solar project in Texas, bringing its total PV portfolio in the state to over 500MWac in operation.