Europe

Russia-based integrated PV manufacturer Hevel Group has claimed its first fabricated heterojunction (HJ) solar cell has achieved a conversion efficiency of 21.75%.

Global solar PV capacity could increase six-fold by 2030 and account for as much as 7% of worldwide power generation, according to the International Renewable Energy Association (IRENA).

German research institute Fraunhofer ISE has claimed a new record conversion efficiency for a 20mm x 20mm N-type multicrystalline cell using process match wafer and its TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) developed technology.

Solar PV and polysilicon manufacturing equipment specialist centrotherm photovoltaics has secured a major supply deal from a customer in Asia.

Polysilicon producer REC Silicon ASA reported a 106% increase in its polysilicon sales volume in the fourth quarter of 2016, due to an overall strong demand pick-up in the late last year.

EU member states have passed an 18-month extension of punitive trade duties on imports of Chinese solar products.

High-efficiency module producer SunPower will supply 64.4MW of its E-Series solar panels for the construction of seven solar PV projects in France by Engie subsidiary LA Compagnie due Vent.

First Solar announced Thursday that French PV energy company Photosol has chosen its thin-film solar modules for 14 utility-scale solar projects with a total capacity of 106.5MW.

The French parliament has adopted a draft law on self-consumption of electricity from renewable energy sources.

PV inverter manufacturer SolarEdge Technologies reported fourth quarter and full-year 2016 results that were impacted by a slowdown in the US residential market in the second-half of the year. European and Asia markets helped revenue grow 15% in 2016.