Private infrastructure investment in solar energy during 2015 grew to US$9.4 billion, 72% higher than the average of the previous five years, according to new World Bank figures.
The Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) has set a new world record conversion efficiency for a copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) lab-sized solar cell, verified by Fraunhofer ISE of 22.6%.
A new study by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights the continued need to focus on balance of system (BOS) cost reductions for solar PV power plants to continue to expand as a key global renewable energy source.
French energy giant Total is making good on its promise to become one of the top players in renewable power within 20 years by continuing its foray into the clean energy sector by acquiring Lampiris, Belgium’s third-largest natural gas and renewable power vendor for the residential sector.
UK-based solar investment fund NextEnergy Capital (NEC) is to invest more than €150 million (US$210 million) in the Italian solar market after receiving backing from the UK subsidiary of insurance and investment giant Prudential.
Manufacturing equipment supplier Manz AG has issued a warning that it may not be able to meet profit forecasts after an unnamed “large project” in its energy storage segment was halted.
China-based integrated PV manufacturer Hareon Solar has recently signed an MOU with partners to build and operate a 160MW cell and module plant in Morocco with a total investment of around US$114 million.
A 333MW PV plant is apparently set to be constructed by local PV company Andaltia in Lorca, Spain, requiring an investment of €400 million (US$454 million), according to the town's official website and local news outlets.
Developers of commercial solar PV in Britain, hoping to add batteries to their offerings could find the expertise required a significant barrier to entry, the head of a solar installation and power engineering company has said.
