According to iSuppli's survey, thin-film solar cells are rapidly Dunqu crystal technology has been the market share by 2013, the PV part of more than double the number of watts. By 2013, solar panels in the global market, the share of films from 2008 to 14% to 31%.
"First Solar Inc. Has been a strong proof of the viability of thin film technology, the company jumped this year, the world's largest manufacturer of solar panels, yield more than one billion watts." ISuppli's research director, said Greg Sheppard, "Meanwhile, the The company also has production cost per watt to less than 90 cents a silicon crystal is about half of the module manufacturer. "
Thin-film modules are expected next year, the average price will drop to 1.40 U.S. dollars, 1.70 dollars lower than in 2009. In 2010 the average price of crystalline silicon panels are expected to fall to 2.00 dollars, 2.50 U.S. dollars this year.
Nov. 13, 2009
iSuppli: 2013 thin-film solar panels will double its market share
Israel developed a highly efficient solar panels Smart
Israel's leading-edge solar energy company in October 2009 announced the development of an intelligent solar panels, not only more than traditional solar panels provide 25% of energy, but also an effective solution to the existing solar energy systems are faced with monitoring and security troubles.
In the current use of solar PV systems, all solar panels are usually first connected to a converter box, and then through it to connect to the grid. This assembly methods to make people more concerned about the entire solar energy installations, rather than individual solar panels, therefore, when a failure or some solar panels when it is difficult to monitor. Especially those from the wild hundreds of thousands of panels composed of large power plants, to discover what solar panels do not work is more difficult, and only a serious problem to the site one by one after testing, will find the crux of the problem. To solve this problem, the company developed a smart chip, the above integration of the converter boxes and have all the technical monitoring and control functions, each of photovoltaic panels mounted on the chip later, that turned into an electronic device, managers only through remote monitoring, you can immediately understand the operational status of each battery plate.
Another existing solar power system is unable to effectively close the defects generated by high-voltage direct current, which gives the system installation, maintenance brought about potential risks. The company uses smart chip technology, solar panels can be closed one by one, thereby enhancing the system's security. In addition, the use of this smart solar panels also help security. Allegedly, every solar panel worth 600-800 U.S. dollars, once the loss is considerable use of the technology, the event of theft, the system will alarm immediately.
Nov. 11, 2009
Sanyo HIT in the United States production of solar cells
Sanyo on November 4, 2009, announced in the U.S. energy and technology parks Salem photovoltaic production plant put into production. The device is located in the United States, Oregon, Salem, will produce silicon ingots and silicon, namely, manufacturing Sanyo's proprietary HIT (has a thin layer of mixed within the junction type) solar cells and modules of the core material. The company said Sanyo would be set up per square foot photovoltaic solar energy into electrical energy the most efficient companies.
Initial production has begun, the device in April 2010 plans to reach annual production capacity of 70MW. Sanyo plans to build a new plant to meet future market growth in demand, the company's worldwide annual production capacity will reach 2010 at least 600MW.
Nov. 8, 2009
DuPont Photovoltaic scale of business in 2012 will reach 1 billion U.S. dollars
Despite the tremendous impact of the financial crisis in 2009, the size of the global PV market will be the first negative growth. Market research firm iSuppli shows that in 2009 the world's newly installed photovoltaic power generation system will reach about 4GW, United States DuPont has predicted that its photovoltaic business from the current 0.25 billion dollars in 2012, 1 billion U.S. dollars (677 million euros ). The March 20, 2009 DuPont Global Thin Film Photovoltaic R & D Center was officially opened in Hong Kong, May 4, 2009 DuPont (China) Photovoltaic R & D Center in Shanghai was officially opened, it should be seen as DuPont to expand solar business direct the performance.
Although membership of the traditional chemical production enterprises, but in recent years, with renewable sources of energy continue to take the heat, DuPont have started to include renewable resources, bio-technology and other areas of emerging technologies "science company" vigorously restructuring. For example, its latest new series of DuPont PV5200 PV module packaging film, laminated glass in the manufacturing process to show excellent physical and processing properties, and add other features to meet the needs of thin-film solar power. The financial crisis, countries around the world for the promotion of clean energy efforts, has reached an unprecedented level, which also gives DuPont a huge opportunity to expand solar business.
Nov. 6, 2009
CECIC and Suntech Power signed a strategic cooperation agreement
China Energy Conservation Investment Corporation (CECIC) and the world's largest crystalline silicon PV modules manufacturer Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement and plan for the future 5 years to develop solar energy projects.
In this cooperation, CECIC will have primary responsibility for investment and development, Suntech Power is primarily responsible for crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells to provide components, systems design and technical services. The two companies plan to focus on the development of 5 years international, China's domestic large-scale grid projects, the integration of urban construction of photovoltaic (BIPV) projects, in remote areas without electricity independent photovoltaic power generation projects and landscape projects complement each other and the network station.
Wang Xiaokang, general manager of CECIC said that the national and the provincial government introduced policies aimed at the solar renewable energy through the development of environmentally sustainable development to achieve the great goal. Suntech Power and the establishment of the partnership is that we in the implementation of government policies with regard to the important step out. "
Suntech Power, chairman and CEO Shi Zengrong said, "China's energy-saving in the project finance and development experience, combined with Suntech Power efficient solutions for the development of China's solar energy project to build a solid foundation. The use of solar power generation, on the one hand can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, on the other hand, would be able to meet the energy needs of the Chinese market. "
Aug. 9, 2009
Chicago, the largest city in the nation-building solar energy power plant
According to reports, the U.S. power company in Chicago (Exelon Corp.) And SunPower Corp. Access to the Chicago City Council approved, in Chicago, on industrial land south of the original building of the nation's largest solar power plant of the city. By the Chicago City Council approval, will be an area of 41 acres of the so-called "brown land" rented to Exelon Corp., For the installation of about 32,000 solar photovoltaic panels, the land lease for 25 years. The company said the project may be started in January 2010 electricity production.
Exelon Corp. Said that the value of 60 million U.S. dollars, power generation capacity of 10MW of solar photovoltaic project can be successfully carried out, to a large extent depend on the availability of the U.S. Department of Energy to provide federal loan guarantees. The company hoped that the project 80% of the funds would be federal loan guarantees help.
Another construction of the project enterprise, the largest U.S. solar cell manufacturer SunPower module hopes to build more solar power plants, and power utility companies to buy their profit.
The Chicago power company plans to plant to sell electricity wholesale to utility companies and other customers, the total electricity consumption from 1200 to 1500 to meet the needs of the family. The company said construction of the project could create about 200 jobs.
Aug. 6, 2009
Spain's new large-scale photovoltaic power plants more than 600
2008 worldwide more than 1,000 new large-scale photovoltaic power stations have been established, and the formation of the League of power network. Among them, the construction of many power plants can be divided into many stages of construction, so taking into account the power station is under construction, the total will be higher. Union network in the power station, power station in Spain accounted for about 600, Germany and the United Kingdom occupy more than 120, respectively. It is also worth mentioning that the roof of the Belgian installation of solar power generation equipment and the Czech Republic, open-air installation.
In Asia, South Korea in 2008 with more installation of photovoltaic power generation equipment and the top rate. In Europe, in 2008 the number of photovoltaic power generation equipment installed in more than 800 countries have been on the rise. There are also 1500 power station is under construction. United States, with more than 400 photovoltaic power stations, the world's second-largest in the world.
Aug. 4, 2009
Luxembourg Institute developed a conversion rate of 12% of the CIGS solar cells
Luxembourg Institute of the University developed a solar cell conversion efficiency of 12% of the CIGS (Cu, In, Ga, Se)-based solar cell modules. The Institute is located in Luxembourg at the University of TDK's industry-university co-operative research projects "TDK Europe Professorship" under the framework in April 2007 established. Mainly engaged in the new solar cell materials and manufacturing process development.
In order to enhance solar cell conversion efficiency of the Institute, developed a thin-film solar cell absorption layers and isolation layers. The future will be located at the Institute in Berlin, Germany, Helmholtz-Zentrum Munchen layer to develop the use of these solar cells.
In addition, the Institute has also successfully developed a non-high In the solar cell. Manufacturing methods can be used in the plating method to reduce costs. Conversion efficiency of 3.2%. According to the Institute of solar cells that use the same kinds of material conversion efficiency of solar cells is the world record of 3.4 percent.
Jul. 31, 2009
European market for solar cell conversion efficiency requirements
With the demand gradually warmed, the European market for solar cell conversion efficiency is also improved solar battery factory that the recent request of many customers in Europe, poly-silicon solar cell conversion efficiency to be 16-16.2%, and conversion rates in the This will gradually be included under the low-end products.
Solar battery factory that has been the European market demands high quality, the recent conversion efficiency of solar cells required to enhance the trend of 15.8 percent from the previous standard of about 16-16.2% of jumped. Experts believe that lead to the conversion efficiency of solar cells in addition to the main reason for manufacturers to upgrade production quality, the lack of polysilicon than ever, the case of mixing to reduce the net conversion efficiency of polycrystalline silicon may be prompted to upgrade is one of the factors.
In addition, in 2009 a number of manufacturers of solar cells to actively enhance the conversion efficiency of solar cells, including polycrystalline, single crystal solar cells were set to challenge the 17% and 18% of the conversion efficiency goals, is expected to be into the second half will also be in volume production However, because each use different techniques to achieve the conversion efficiency of the threshold, it is estimated that the successful mass production or will produce different results, rather than the majority of enterprises are able to successfully import.
Some manufacturers have indicated, in addition to the conversion efficiency, the increase in the assessment of the cost of production is regarded as one of the most important, if the input a large amount of money, manpower and equipment, only 1 percentage point increase in the conversion efficiency, and can not be effective in the short term cost recovery, and enhance the conversion efficiency does not mean effective.
Jul. 28, 2009
Sharp mass production of thin film solar cells
Sharp Corp. Recently said that mass production of thin-film solar plant cells, 1 the annual output of about 160,000 KW of electricity. This glass substrate in the silicon membrane to form a new type of solar cells, and is widely used in silicon solar cell compared to only 1% of silicon.
Sharp's thin film solar cells based on a large area of about 1x1.4 meters formed glass substrates. Up to 9% of the energy conversion efficiency of thin film solar cell industry is the most efficient. Sharp to spend ¥ 22,000,000,000 establishment of low-cost thin-film solar cell production line. The company intends to promote solar power plants around the world. Sharp is the world's No. 2 maker of solar cells. Year silicon thin-film solar cells with a capacity of 710,000 KW.
Jul. 24, 2009
VDMA: photovoltaic equipment in the first quarter sales up 60%
The sales turnover of the manufacturers of equipment, machinery and plants for the photovoltaic industry in Germany for the first quarter of 2009 has exceeded the respective quarter of last year by 60%. The export ratio rose to 89%. The incoming orders significantly increased by 34% compared to the fourth quarter of 2008. This is the result of the current quarterly statistics that VDMA carries out specifically for this industry sector.
For the second quarter the participating companies expect yet another turnover growth of 9%. The orders on hand remain at a high level, the range of orders only slightly went down to 10.2 production months. "The current oversupply of solar modules and financing problems of the manufacturers slow down the expansion of production capacities. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the sales growth has declined significantly compared to the doubling it has seen for the last three years. Despite the general improvement, incoming orders are still 16% below the first quarter of 2008. However, after the slump in incoming orders in the second half of 2008 this result is respectable, "says Dr. Eric Maiser, director of the photovoltaic equipment forum within VDMA.
The remainder of the year will remain difficult for the entire industry. The participating companies report a significantly higher risk of cancellation or postponement of orders. Moreover, the results show a considerable spread: value chain effects tend to result in slightly better business for machinery and plant manufacturers than for equipment makers. Projects with a longer period of implementation require earlier ordering of equipment. Thus, for incoming orders, it is decisive whether the companies supply fabs for the production of solar modules, solar cells, thin-film photovoltaics or polysilicon . On top of this, another factor is the overall volume of PV business in the individual companies themselves.
The fact is, however, that the long-term potential of photovoltaics is undisputed. The rapid price decline makes photovoltaic products more attractive for an increasing number of clients. Photovoltaic manufacturers currently have to bear a severe pressure on both, costs and innovation. Only those companies who manage to effectively transform latest technology into production will succeed. "This requires new investments even for already existing fabs and will sustain the demand for equipment. Therefore, successful machine makers continue to develop their technology portfolio at high speed. 2009 is a good year for that, "comments Maiser.
Jul. 20, 2009
LDK Solar to acquire SGT 70% stake in Italy
LDK Solar 7 on 14 announced the acquisition of the Italian market specialized solar systems integrator Solar Green Technology SpA ( "SGT") 70% of the shares.
LDK Solar to acquire Solar Green Technology SpA 70% of the shares. This investment will promote the development of more projects LDK Solar's efforts and strengthen its position in the PV field of the Italian territory. SGT will provide project opportunities LDK Solar and technical support, implementation, and control of PV plants can be put into operation.
LDK Solar Chairman and CEO Peng Xiaofeng, said: "We are very pleased to be able to acquire Solar Green Technology of the controlling interest. SGT's management and staff in the PV has proved a powerful ability to market experience and a solid. We belie6e that, SGT's will be the way to the rich resources of LDK Solar in the Italian PV market development efforts and direct an effective tool, the market is currently Europe's most dynamic and profitable markets. "
Jul. 16, 2009
United States Renewable Energy Fund the amount of up to 3 billion U.S. dollars
U.S. Treasury Department and the Department of Energy recently revealed company plans to apply for renewable energy development fund guidelines, the Fund about the amount of three billion U.S. dollars, estimated to provide immediate tax credit for 1000 of about 5 solar energy, wind power production facilities, etc. . Reported that the next three years will help fund renewable energy production to reach the goal of doubling, but also allows non-governmental enterprises in the tight credit market conditions are still better access to capital.
The report also mentioned that each program is expected to receive 600,000 U.S. dollars of assistance. In addition, regardless of the construction start time for that, as long as 1 January, 2009 to 2010 December 31 during the day to begin production of renewable energy equipment can make an application; and only started in the construction of the above-mentioned period, and then in 2010 to production before the closing date for applications are also applicable. To solar energy as an example, the application deadline for January 1, 2017.
Jul. 12, 2009
Japan Government plans for all public primary and secondary schools into solar power
8 reported that in order to achieve greenhouse gas (CO2) reduction target, Japan plans to the Government in 2020 in Japan before all public primary and secondary schools (a total of about 32,000) of solar energy into electricity, and plans to take the lead in 2012 to solar power into a few schools from the existing 1,200 increased by 10 times to 12,000.
Reported that, Japan Government has made plans to import solar power generation, the main because the school facilities and residential, business establishments and factories, compared more to the national and local governments under the auspices of the related equipment in accordance with the plan prepared by the work of the whole, Canada school into the solar equipment, but also on children and students to help education.
Reported that, Japan Prime Minister Taro Aso made in June this year JapanCO2 emissions in 2020 than in 2005 will be reduced by 15% of the medium-term goal, according to the results spreadsheet, in order to achieve the medium-term target is almost no CO2 emissions of the total solar generating capacity must be increased to 20 times the current.
Jul. 8, 2009
QuantaSol the efficiency of solar cells up to 28.3%
News July 3, United Kingdom QuantaSol Inc., the company in a short span of two years R & D efficiency of 28.3 percent level of quantum solar cells. Fraunhofer ISE after changing product testing and certification of solar energy research institute, at 500 times the solar conversion efficiency under the condenser reached 28.3%.
QuantaSol is a semiconductor wafer production line without the pure technology companies, professional equipment and technical support for R & D companies from the United Kingdom in 2007 set up a company for Imperial Collage separation. QuantaSol therefore can concentrate on research and development of high-performance silicon products.
Jul. 4, 2009
South Korea: DSSC thin film solar cell conversion efficiency can be increased to 16%
Yonhap News South Korean media reports, The state-run Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) 29 announced that has developed to a substantial increase in thin-film panchromatic solar cells conversion efficiency of the manufacturing process can be yellow, red, green three different color layer stack in a layer of TiO2 film. According to the report, the technology can be DSSC solar cell conversion efficiency from the previous level of 11% to further improve to around 15-16%.
Thomson Reuters reports that the United States cadmium telluride thin film solar cell module maker First Solar Inc. President Bruce Sohn on June 24 conference in Las Vegas that is expected in 2014 the company's thin-film solar cell production costs can be Point in 2009 from Q1 of 0.93 U.S. dollars per watt down to 0.52-0.63 dollars, and energy conversion efficiency is expected from the current 10.9 percent to 12.5 percent boost.
cadmium telluride thin film solar cells of the highest conversion efficiency was 16.5%, from the United States reached a National Renewable Energy Laboratory. In addition, SunPower Corp. Just in the near future to introduce a 19.3 percent conversion efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells.
Jun. 30, 2009
First Solar: 5 years, the cost of production is expected to drop 1/3
U.S. CdTe (cadmium telluride) thin film solar module manufacturer First Solar Inc. President Bruce Sohn 24 held at the Las Vegas conference that is expected in 2014 the company's thin-film solar cell production costs is expected by 2009 Q1 of 0.93 U.S. dollars per watt down to 0.52-0.63 dollars, and energy conversion efficiency is expected from the current 10.9% to 12.5%.
According to reports, CdTe thin film solar cells of the highest conversion efficiency was 16.5%, from the United States reached a National Renewable Energy Laboratory. In addition, SunPower Corp. Just recently introduced a 19.3 percent conversion efficiency of the polysilicon solar cells.
Well-known U.S. financial weekly Barron `s previously reported, First Solar thin film solar cell conversion efficiency of 11% only, which is lower than silicon solar cells 20%, while the company also said that if the polysilicon price around 50 U.S. dollars per kilogram , its cost advantage will disappear. As the supply of the serious oversupply of polysilicon by the end of March from a year ago the price of 450 U.S. dollars per kg down to about 100 dollars.
Jun. 26, 2009
First Solar is likely to exceed this year the performance of Q-Cells
The world's leading management consulting firm Navigant Consulting in the Paula Mints, principal analyst in London last week at the Economic Forum pointed out that solar energy, solar power in 2009 the U.S. film giant First Solar will exceed China's Suntech Power and Japan's Sharp to become the world's largest photovoltaic component manufacturers. In the production of solar cells, First Solar is also expected to more than Germany's Q-Cells, the world's largest manufacturer of solar cells.
2008 global production of thin-film solar cells of 892MW, an increase of 123%. As the industry leader, First Solar 2008 solar years, production capacity reached 503MW, to reach the location of the second industry. In addition, fourth quarter 2008 average production of First Solar's cost has been reduced to 0.98 U.S. dollars per watt, is the world's first production cost is lower than 1 U.S. dollars per watt of solar energy manufacturers, which makes the company's products are highly competitive in the market . In the global photovoltaic substantial losses giant, First Solar net income for the quarter reached 132.8 million U.S. dollars, and full-year 2008 revenue of First Solar from the 2007 growth of 504 million U.S. dollars to 1.2463 billion U.S. dollars.
In the first quarter of 2009, as European countries, especially in the field of solar energy in Spain in the event of a major policy change, the global PV market caused a sharp contraction, most photovoltaic enterprises operating conditions of the first quarter is generally not an ideal situation, First Solar is very good performance. The first quarter of the company's revenues reached 418.2 million U.S. dollars, an increase of 112%.
Jun. 22, 2009
China may become a solar energy consuming country
Lazard Capital Markets is expected that China will become a solar energy consuming country, and recommend areas of bargain stocks to buy China's solar energy.
Analyst Sanjay Shrestha said: "China is no longer merely a manufacturing power, but also become a strong growth market." He believed that before 2011, the size of China's solar industry can achieve 10-1500000000 watts. He also estimated that by 2012 the industry will reach 2000 million watts in 2020 to reach 20 billion watts.
The analysts believe that the infrastructure, financing and access issues will not become a development bottleneck. In a report he wrote: "We believe that the necessary infrastructure will be build up very fast, state-owned enterprises and banks will provide financial support." Until the end of last year, the field of solar energy are not affected by the economic crisis. Due to exchange rate fluctuations, revenue polysilicon contract, China's solar energy equipment manufacturers were hit, but China's newly announced incentives will help boost demand.
Jun. 18, 2009
Ascent Solar to create five meters long flexible CIGS photovoltaic components
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTI), a developer of state-of-the-art, flexible thin-film photovoltaic modules, announced that the company has manufactured a monolithically interconnected 5 meter long flexible light weight module on a polyimide substrate .
Ascent Solar Sr. Vice President for Production Operations Dr. Prem Nath stated, "This is the largest monolithically interconnected CIGS module on polyimide and may be the largest of any CIGS module regardless of construction. The size and efficiency of this module make it a breakthrough for the emerging opportunities of flexible CIGS photovoltaic modules. "
The CIGS based thin film material used in this module was manufactured using the company's unique 1.5 MW roll-to-roll manufacturing line. The module was encapsulated during the testing and qualification of equipment that will be used for its 30 MW plant under construction. Based on internal test and evaluation, this 5M long module weighs 2 kilograms and produces 123 watts (under standard test conditions) with an aperture area efficiency of 9.1%. This length is a baseline for the company's development of large area flexible building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV ) products with our strategic BIPV partners.
Source: www.ascentsolar.com Jun. 16, 2009
TSMC will be involved in solar
According to Taiwan media reports, TSMC Chairman Zhang Zhongmou, general manager of joint Cai Lixing 11 held a press conference announcing the development of TSMC will be LED, solar and other new industries; Zhang Zhongmou conservative estimate, a new business in 2018 will reach more than two billion U.S. dollars, can be brought on behalf of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company contributions to revenue growth of 1.5%.
Zhang Zhongmou said TSMC foundry professionals over the years, so in other areas there is no plan, but now there is a direction, that is, to build one or more is not the cause of the competition for new customers and new business also more than one, the future plans to be in charge of Cai Lixing.
Zhang Zhongmou that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company in 2008 revenue 10 billion U.S. dollars, estimated in 2012 to 10 billion U.S. dollars will be returned, followed by the annual growth rate of 6%. This model is estimated that in 2018 the foundry TSMC's revenue size, should be between 140-150 billion dollars, while between 2008-2018 the 10-year compound annual growth rate of only 3%.
However, after the establishment of new businesses, new businesses in 2018 is expected to be 2 billion yuan U.S. dollars, will be for the annual compound growth rate of more than 1.5 percentage point increase is the growth of 4.5 percent.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 14, 2009
Samsung Electronics spent to build solar cell production line
South Korean Chosun Ilbo reported that South Korean technology giant Samsung Electronics to spend nearly 400 billion won (32 million U.S. dollars) building a solar cell production line, plans to expand the cause of solar cells.
The report quoted officials saying that the company, located in Seoul to Giheung new plant is expected to be completed in October, production capacity will be 30MW.
Samsung next year will cost nearly 4,000 billion won to expand the production line, the overall production capacity will reach at least 300MW.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 12, 2009
Lamborghini for factory installation of solar panels
Recently, the Lamborghini factory in its own plant at the top of the installation area of 17,000 square meters of solar panels, when the end of this year after the project, these solar panels will be able to annually produce 1,582 MWh of electricity.
From the side, and the Lamborghini factory is really insignificant. After all, they produce only a few thousand cars, and only one of the main factory. Lamborghini sports car and is super-powerful sports car, very fuel consumption, so the owner of Lamborghini is rarely used in general. It would appear that Lamborghini total emissions of carbon dioxide is really not much. However, even then, the Lamborghini is continually working to reduce their own carbon dioxide emissions, and they hope to make its own contribution to the environment, but also to comply with relevant laws and regulations.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 10, 2009
United Nations Environment Program: China 95% of photovoltaic products for the export market
By the global financial and economic crisis in a serious impact, worldwide investment in clean energy projects are still maintained a growth momentum, largely thanks to China and other emerging economies of wind, solar, biofuels and other sustainable energy projects into the continued expansion of China's investment in renewable energy projects of up to 15.6 billion U.S. dollars, ranking first in the Asia-Pacific region.
According to the United Nations web site reported, the report said China has become Asia's "giant green economy", leading the trend of investment in new energy sources. China in 2008, investment in green energy more than 15.6 billion U.S. dollars, more than 18 percent up in 2007, of which the investment is still the most active wind power and biofuels projects. At present, China has become the world's second largest wind to market. China is the world's largest manufacturer of solar photovoltaic products.
In the solar field, China has become the world's largest manufacturing base of solar photovoltaic products, of which 95% of production for the export market. But the report also pointed out that as a result of the global financial crisis had led to shrinking overseas markets, a considerable portion of China's solar photovoltaic products manufacturer will have to postpone or cancel plans to increase production.
The report predicts that wind energy as the most mature and reliable renewable energy in 2009 will continue to maintain an advantageous position to attract investment. In addition, as the silicon solar equipment prices continued to drop, solar energy project financing in 2009 will increase 71 percent, more investors are welcome.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 8, 2009
Diatom material to improve the efficiency of solar cells three times
According to Oregon State University and Portland State University researchers say the experiment confirmed that a so-called micro-algae diatom help the dye-sensitized solar cell power output is three times more.
Engineers said the review through the capture diatoms outside of the thin film solar cell layer nano-holes in the light, this battery can be retrieved more sub incident, which substantially improved the efficiency of electricity generation.
"In our system, the photon in the formation of diatom shell holes with bounce," Oregon State University professor Greg Rorrer said, "This will enhance their energy efficiency three times higher than conventional systems."
In contrast to the case of silicon solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cell with thin film materials used in low-light conditions with the advantage of more environmentally friendly. However, the silicon solar cell conversion efficiency as high as 20%, than the dye-sensitized solar cell conversion efficiency of 10% twice higher.
Therefore, if the material allows the use of diatoms dye-sensitized solar cell efficiency of three times, then we will be able to provide a lower cost silicon solar cells with considerable efficiency, in particular, is that it can work in low light conditions.
The technology is still in an experimental stage, is expected to be its manufacturing cost than the traditional dye-sensitized solar cells higher. However, Rorrer that enhance the high-conversion efficiency that is sufficient to compensate the increased costs. As the photons bounce in the hole in which dye molecules get more energy, a substantial increase in probability, in order to release more electronic.
Next, these engineers also intends diatoms measured only by a single solar cell composed by the micro-efficiency. In addition, due to the efficiency of these materials have not been commercialized to the extent practical, therefore, they are also planning to carry out the best of this material.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 6, 2009
Solar cells in 2008 shipments in Japan hit record high
According to the Japanese Association of solar power (JPEA) 3 released statistics show that year 2008 (April 2008 -2009 in March) in Japan the world's solar cell shipments (domestic + exports) by 23% year to 1.12 million 521KW, record a record high. Among them, the result of Japan's domestic solar power generation equipment into the system of this grant (2009) the road in January in Japan's domestic demand driven by shipments of 13% to the year 230,000 6,787 KW; export volume also increased 26% year to 880,000 3,734 KW.
JPEA and at the same time Japan's January-March this year the global shipments of solar cells by 11% to the year 240,000 4,281 KW. Among them, Japan's domestic shipments by 18% in 70000 to 3,268 KW, founding in 2006 January to March to a record high; exports due to the deteriorating economic downturn led to the demand for the European market by 19% in the year 170,000 to 1,013 KW, which in Europe by 21.0 percent, also in North America by 2.7%.
Japanese solar cell manufacturers, including Sharp Corp., Kyocera and SANYO Electric and so on.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 4, 2009
Oerlikon systems with nano-SOLARIS enter the field of crystalline silicon solar cells
A few days ago, Oerlikon Systems demonstrated the first production of a revolutionary solution SOLARIS, it simplifies the crystalline silicon solar cell manufacturing. Oerlikon Systems business unit in charge of Dill said: "The trick is to us a wealth of high-yield deposition equipment to the optical disk (CD / DVD / Blu-ray) experience with our leading combination of nano-coating technology." This led to the first applicable to large-scale production of nano-machines, single substrate. Crystalline silicon solar business of Oerlikon Systems now is the SOLARIS system aimed at the first market.
Production costs of solar cells depends not only on efficiency, but also on the productivity of manufacturing technology. Oerlikon Systems competent Dill said: "If we want to significantly reduce the cost of solar energy to reach grid parity, not only to improve the battery itself, but must re-examine the production." Coating existing standard crystal solar cells using sophisticated production methods process of cleaning and maintenance of a high artificial requirements.
With these compared to traditional processes, SOLARIS system uses advanced nano-technology. Oerlikon Systems competent Dill said: "With SOLARIS, the first time, we adopt advanced technology to produce nano-crystalline solar cells. SOLARIS production of solar cells have great advantages. First of all, SOLARIS size of 2.0 x 3.3 meters, more than a similar solution to save the 80% of the area. Secondly, the fully automatic solution only minimum maintenance. Third, SOLARIS significantly reduces energy consumption (about 50%). Finally, a substantial increase in maintenance requirements to reduce the normal execution time. SOLARIS the benefits are obvious. This is a revolutionary concept of the solar cell manufacturing - the first of many to use the new system to achieve the clean technology. "
The first solar cell customers (a leading manufacturer of solar cells) is currently being tested for production of SOLARIS.
Source: windosi.com Jun. 2, 2009
LDK will be involved in the construction of five solar power plants in Italy
Chinese solar wafer maker LDK Solar 26 announced, the company has with the leader in solar system integration ESPE Srl have entered into contracts in the Apulia region of Italy to build five solar power plants, power plants have been the first to start.
Under the agreement, LDK Solar will provide a silicon wafer, and the ESPE Srl will be responsible for engineering, procurement, construction services and systems integration.
Source: windosi.com May. 31, 2009
Chile will be to develop solar energy and bio-renewable energy
Chilean President Bachelet in May in the State of the Union address referred to in the northern region of Chile will build two solar power generation demonstration plant.
Stockman, according to the Chilean Minister of Energy, the strong solar radiation in northern Chile for the use of solar energy, the Chilean government plans in the northern areas of SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA the construction of a photovoltaic solar energy center and a steam power plant.
Center for photovoltaic power generation 500 kilowatts per hour, the project will be the second half of the enterprises and research institutions to carry out the optimization program. Solar steam generation capacity of power plants is expected to 10,000 kilowatts. Two projects will generate electricity grid access to electricity for the northern region.
In addition, the Government of Chile will also promote the use of non-traditional crops for power generation, such as forest products, such as algae. Now there is a 10 million U.S. dollars investment in power generation projects, the Government will organize the use of bio-energy project selection, select the most promising projects.
Source: windosi.com May. 29, 2009
Polysilicon prices will drop this year 40-45 USD
With Japan's Tokuyama, the United States MEMC and Hemlock, Germany Wacker and other international companies, a new polysilicon production capacity since the second quarter in succession after the opening, coupled with the continued expansion of domestic firms, so that has been faced with excess supply of polycrystalline silicon prices have continued to decline, the semiconductor and solar silicon prices have also re-used to face price pressure.
Some experts point out that Japan's Tokuyama new 3,000 tons of polysilicon has been in mass production this quarter, MEMC will increase this year, 3,000 tons of production capacity, Hemlock will be out this year, 7,000 tonnes of new capacity. In addition, the German maker of polysilicon construction production capacity of 10,000 tons is also out in the second half, coupled with China's largest polysilicon plant expansion last year, an annual output of 4,500 tons last year to increase by the end of the year so far 10,000 tons of polysilicon supply market excess pressure will become even more serious.
Clearing the first quarter down 12-inch silicon wafer semiconductor prices per one hundred U.S. dollars to the 20 percent in the second quarter as the semiconductor factory demand, fell 10% to 90 U.S. dollars, as the major semiconductor factory in the middle of the year on the Stock security level to drop to below the expected price in the third quarter is expected to 90 U.S. dollars in the same.
As for solar energy use per kilogram price of polysilicon in the first quarter falling 40% to 90 U.S. dollars, the spot price of the end of 5 months has dropped to 65 U.S. dollars and then, a drop of about 28%. Supply as the market continued to open up, but not the resumption of demand, so the industry may be forecast in the third quarter fell 23 percent to 50 U.S. dollars, may be dropped at the end of 40-45 U.S. dollars in cash the cost of the polysilicon plant before they occur signs stabilized.
Source: windosi.com May. 27, 2009
Japan's energy white paper that energy supply should be based mainly solar and nuclear power
News May 25, Japan 22 provinces by the middle cabinet meeting to the Government submitted the annual report of energy - "Energy White Paper 2009." The White Paper pointed out that Japan's main source of energy supply is necessary from the current level of oil is converted to solar and nuclear power and other non-fossil fuels.
White believes that the current global economic crisis with oil demand is short-term decline. The future, as the center for emerging markets, crude oil demand will continue to grow, the pressure of rising oil prices still exists. The White Paper pointed out that Japan should be prepared to deal with the world economic recovery and the re-emergence of a sharp rise in oil prices and a high level, to create "not susceptible to changes in crude oil prices affect the economic structure."
The White Paper also proposed that Japan should be strengthened on the one hand, the investment of resources to ensure a steady supply of energy; on the one hand, should be energy saving, development of new energy, to strengthen the areas of nuclear power from a long-focus, and actively promote.
Source: windosi.com May. 25, 2009
Mitsubishi Electric solar power system is proposed to expand production capacity to 3 times the existing
Japanese media reports, Mitsubishi Electric Corp. Director Wang Village Festival, held in 21 said that the trading strategy, the company will be solar power generation system as the cause of great growth potential and is expected in 2011 to expand its production capacity to 600MW size, about the current (2008; 220MW) 3 times.
Village President pointed out that the cause of solar power generation by the recession, although growth has slowed down the impact, but the future is bound to further expand the size of the market, so the company plans to generate electricity in addition to the highest level of efficiency of solar cells as early as a walk outside the advancing stage of mass production also plans to expand in Europe and America and China's solar power generation systems sales.
Mitsubishi Electric on February 18 this year, announced that the effective absorption of sunlight by a new method of infrared, the company already has the world's number one 150 mm square polycrystalline silicon solar cell conversion efficiency of 0.3 to further boost percentage points to 18.9%.
Source: windosi.com May. 23, 2009
SunPower to launch the world's most powerful solar panels
Efficient solar cells, solar panels and solar systems manufacturer SunPower Corp. (SPWRA) today announced the SunPower (R) 315 solar panels of the latest version - the world's residential and commercial market is the most powerful solar panels. The solar panels have been upgraded using SunPower high-performance solar panels, equipped with 96 batteries, each board can generate 315 kilowatts of electricity, and provides the industry's highest conversion efficiency of 19.3 percent.
SunPower vice president and general manager Vikas Desai said: "SunPower continues to provide customers with the best solar technology and the largest return on investment. 315 Solar Panel us the latest version so that to maximize production capacity, so that each solar roof fewer . by virtue of the battery less system board and the balance of materials, customers can benefit from lower installation costs. "
Source: windosi.com May. 21, 2009
LDK Solar silicon wafers in 2009 to maintain production capacity in the 1.5GW
News May 18, due to the downturn in the global photovoltaic industry conditions, the manufacturer's production capacity expansion of the pace seems to have been greatly affected. However, according to the latest news that leading enterprises in China Polysilicon LDK Solar 2009 years of silicon wafer production capacity remained at 1.5GW.
Peng Xiaofeng, chairman of the company said that the company still maintained a steady volume of the standard, the average quarterly shipments can be maintained at more than 200MW. He also optimistic about the prospects for solar energy industry. In his view, the solar energy industry is very healthy long-term fundamentals, demand is still there, only to face financial crisis, the impact of business credit financing, but the impact will be very short.
Jiang Qian Energy industry analysts said that as the European countries, especially in the field of solar energy in Spain in the event of a major policy change, the global PV market caused a sharp contraction, which led to the first quarter of the global photovoltaic business is generally not the ideal operating conditions. China (including Taiwan), Germany, the United States and other countries one after another photovoltaic manufacturing companies released the first quarter of the recent results have shown this trend.
Source: windosi.com May. 19, 2009
China will reach 100,000 kilowatts of new solar power plant
News May 14, China will start the domestic photovoltaic market. In order to speed up the development of China's new energy industry as an important initiative, the National Energy Board is preparing to start the recent domestic photovoltaic market, the number of the initial installed capacity will reach 100,000 kilowatts, which is to promote the development of photovoltaic industry in China to ease the photovoltaic business the pressure of excess production capacity is important.
National Energy Board new and renewable sources of energy New Energy Division Director Liang Zhipeng in the May 12 opening of "the fourth investment and financing of renewable energy forum," said National Energy Board is studying how the size of the domestic photovoltaic market development the early stage, may start a few of the 100,000 kilowatts of photovoltaic power station project.
Prior to that, as a move to try and find out, the National Energy Board in March this year was held in Dunhuang, Gansu and net 10 MW of photovoltaic power generation market franchise tender the project, 18 bidders for a majority of the purchase price at 1.5 yuan / degree within, the power to vote and the composition of Yingli Green Energy Consortium also voted out of 0.69 yuan / degree of ultra-low prices. Liang Zhipeng, said the judge from the photovoltaic business and the current industry chain to see the price of 1.5 yuan / degree within the PV has a more realistic price, China has come to accelerate the development of appropriate scale photovoltaic power generation phase.
Source: windosi.com May. 1４, 2009
Suntech Power will be building a factory in the United States
May 12 news, solar panel manufacturer Suntech Power plans to the building of factories in the United States, to enter the U.S. market as a long-term strategy.
Chinese solar panel manufacturer Suntech Power said Monday plans to build a factory in the United States, the site has not yet been selected.
Suntech Power said that currently the United States, several states to look out for opportunities to expand in the U.S. solar market, the company plans in the next six months the new site selected.
Company CEO Shi Zhengrong in a statement that the U.S. utility demand for solar energy growth, and government incentives to promote solar, Suntech Power decided to set up factories in the United States.
Source: windosi.com May. 12, 2009
Solar cells in Japan under the Japan's economic growth to support the technology
News May 10, the Japan Economy, Trade and Industry recently decided to put solar cells will support economic growth in Japan's position of technical fields, and actively promote its technical research and development, the expansion of Japan products in the global share; amendment "in Japan popularize and promote the domestic use of solar energy action plan "in order to enhance public facilities for the use of solar energy.
Japan Patent Office (JPO) Statistics 2000 to-2006 in Japan, the United States, Europe, China, South Korea in five countries and regions, the total solar cell patent applications from Japan amounted to 5,449 applications, accounting for 68.4%; which At present, the most popular applications for silicon solar cells reached 75% -81%, far ahead in Europe (8% -11%) and the United States (5% -7%). In other words, in response to global warming green energy - solar cell area, Japan is still the world's largest number of patented technology. However, a more universal type of thin solar panels a new generation of materials technology - an organic semiconductor solar cells, originated from Japan, the United States and European patent applications were 45%, 29% and 19%, and European research institutions in the important journal published papers in the field of 126, is Japan (29) more than 4 times. JPO accordingly that the Japan area of organic semiconductor technology research and development of solar cells has lagged behind Europe and the United States.
According to relevant information, Economy, Trade and Industry in March 2009 on the Japan scale of the next solar industry forecast: the current environmental protection has been widely favored energy background, the Japan production of solar cells will be rapid growth in product sales to the industry in 2020 will expand to 10 times lower than the current, amounting to 10 trillion yen (about 7,040 billion yuan), the staff size from the current 1.2 million to 11 million people.
Source: windosi.com May. 10, 2009
Intel's use of solar cells for the data center power supply
News May 8, it is learned that, Intel has been in Rio Rancho, New Mexico factory installed solar panels to test the use of solar power for the data center. Group of 64 has been installed Sharp solar battery can generate 10 kilowatts of electricity, this is only required for the data center of a small fraction of the power. However, the project may help Intel to find a more active use of solar energy plan.
Intel said the solar panels will power the data center rack, relatively traditional data center power consumption is relatively small cabinet. Mainly used in research experiments, water and electricity during the summer months the use of local peak power for data centers to add.
Source: windosi.com May. 8, 2009
China's solar power generation may increase the target 4 times
May 6 news, the Chinese government has formulated "by 2020 solar power will reach a total capacity of 1,800,000 kilowatts," the goal could be raised substantially.
National Development and Reform Commission, Energy Research Institute, assistant director of the Wang Zhongying yesterday CNEC the Third International Conference on Photovoltaic Solar Energy said that "1.8 million kilowatts," the planning figures could well turn into a 10 million kilowatts, or even 20 million kilowatts.
If 10 million kilowatts, the expansion rate of more than 4 times
Wang Zhongying said that the new target may appear in the Chinese government is planning a "New Energy and Industrial revitalization planning" in the.
"The goal of 1.8 million kilowatts," From August 2007 to the launch of China's "long-term renewable energy development planning" (the "Strategic Plan"). There is a market researcher said that before the establishment of the "1.8 million kilowatts," the goal was too small, "nuclear power and wind power are long-term goals are also changes to the planning of photovoltaic has not been clear, but should be more than expected."
It is reported that wind power development goals in 2020 is possible from the original 30 million kilowatts increased to from 100 to 150 million kilowatts, and the Government is also on the "2020 installed 40 million kilowatts of nuclear power" to proceed to increase the original content .
Source: windosi.com May. 6, 2009
China's first large-scale PV power station roof system passed the acceptance
May 4 news in recent days, China's State Grid Corporation of Science and Technology project "access to the city power grid for 100 kilowatts of solar photovoltaic roof-level and network test platform for power stations and implementation of research" through acceptance, marking China's first high-level structure of the existing framework building construction on the success of large-scale photovoltaic systems engineering, to promote large-scale development and utilization of solar energy and photovoltaic power generation projects and provides an important network to run technical support.
In order to effectively promote energy-saving emission reduction, China's State Grid Corporation of active solar energy and other new projects and research network. China's national power grid in the distributed power generation and grid, such as a series of theoretical studies based on the end of last year in Zhejiang province-owned power companies in production scheduling, respectively, the construction of the roof of the building a single-phase 220-volt 5 kilowatts of photovoltaic power station grid test , a 250 kilowatts of photovoltaic and 10 kV high-voltage power station and a network model 60 kilowatts of photovoltaic grid-connected three-phase 400-volt power stations, and developed a multi-grid PV system test platform for grid-connected PV system safety performance, operating efficiency, such as detailed and thorough study of the test, in view of the characteristics of solar power generation has developed a safe and stable operation of power grids to ensure that the photovoltaic system and network specifications. Three power stations in the January 2 this year and the network put into operation formally, as of April 28, has 807 hours power generation, power generation 55,200 kwh, 3.1 tons of carbon dioxide emissions reduction, good running, the system stability. With the use of integrated photovoltaic glass curtain wall construction is different from the large-scale photovoltaic power plant system and physical separation of buildings, marketing a wide range of applications. According to estimates, the system generating capacity is expected in about 30 million kilowatt hours and annual emission reduction of about 170,000 tons of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide emission reduction of about 220,000 tons, resulting in nearly 1.2 million yuan tariff income.
Source: windosi.com May. 4, 2009
China's first large block of solar cells available
News May 1, 8% conversion efficiency for the international advanced level;-per-watt of crystalline silicon using crystalline silicon cells is equivalent to the volume of 1% of the cost of production greatly reduced.
This reporter recently from China, ENN Solar Energy Co., Ltd. Was informed that a piece of China's first super-large 5.7 ㎡ Binodal line silicon thin film solar cells will be May 6 at the opening of "SNEC Third (2009) International Solar Light V General Assembly "formally unveiled.
According to ENN Solar Dr. Wan Kejia general manager, ENN Solar's large dual-end silicon thin film solar cells have achieved conversion efficiency of 8%, silicon-based thin-film battery is the international advanced level; at the same time, product-per-watt of crystalline silicon used in the volume of crystalline silicon cells is equivalent to only 1%, significantly lower cost-per-watt battery, to avoid the production of crystalline silicon in the process of high energy consumption, more conducive to energy saving and environmental protection, applicable to vehicle battery charging station, residential roofing, building walls and large-scale power plants and other fields, has a broad application space.
It is, ENN Solar Energy Co., Ltd.'s Super silicon-based thin film solar cells into mass production soon. This super-size solar cells, PV modules can greatly reduce the installation costs, and lower system cost of power generation, especially for large power station.
Source: windosi.com May. 1, 2009
Self-cleaning, low-reflectivity surface to improve the efficiency of 2% of the battery
United States Georgia Institute of Technology are developing a technology, it is highly likely to c-Si solar cell conversion efficiency by as much as 2 percent.
Fellow of the Institute adopted the two different types of chemical etching method to produce micro-and nano-scale surface features, an increase of light absorption rate, a decrease of reflection, so that the battery maintain a clean surface.
Through the three-dimensional structure to capture sunlight, and the production from a clean surface - to allow the accumulation of rain or dew in the battery array wash away dust and dirt, the surface treatment to increase the light absorption rate. As a result of free water in the above and scroll down, the surface characteristics have been defined as a super-hydrophobic. "More sunlight to enter the photovoltaic cells, and little is reflected back to reach higher efficiency," Georgia Institute of Technology Materials Science and Engineering Professor CP Wong said, "The simulation results show that this surface We have the ability to structure the final battery efficiency by 2%. "
Wide Fund for Nature in the United States and Georgia Institute of Technology National Electric Power Test Research and Application Center, with the support of the study report was completed in March 24 in Salt Lake City in spring 2009 at the American Chemical Society national meeting.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 30, 2009
SRI: 2013 global solar market will reach 70 billion U.S. dollars
April 28 news according to SRI Consulting's latest report, the global solar market will double in 2013, reaching 70 billion U.S. dollars. Due to the volatility of oil prices in recent years and the effects of global warming, renewable energy development has been increasingly widespread support, the company explained. The first and second generation of photovoltaic cells require different forms of silicon, very little of the transition metal elements, as well as non-metallic elements. Thereby increasing the price of silicon material. The third and fourth generation of technology to focus on organic polymer and nano-materials, thereby reducing production costs.
"Organic photovoltaic cells research in recent years has made tremendous progress. The conversion efficiency has been more than 5%. Of course, commercial silicon cells are still the main market, because its conversion efficiency has exceeded 25%."
SRIC's report examined the photovoltaic industry in new equipment. From raw materials to final production, the field of solar energy has a very great opportunity, and is increasing at an alarming pace. Organic battery manufacturers are now actively seeking cooperation with the electronics companies.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 28, 2009
North-eastern part of the U.S. the cost of the first solar electricity costs less than traditional
April 24 and SunRun news Alteris Renewables today announced a major project, they will be available to families Massachusetts, clean and sustainable energy. SunRun co-operation with, Alteris Renewables will provide users with the family once a month, such as cable or other maintenance services such as public utilities. With this new project, the family installed the first solar system input from the original drop of 30,000 U.S. dollars to 1000 U.S. dollars. At the same time, customers will be in the next 18 years, the lending rate unchanged enjoy. This is the prevention of future electricity price increases effective measures. They can from the pre-investment income was a lot of money.
SunRun company for its solar energy services constantly updated, this is the first time the company provides services in the east coast. As a result of home users do not need to preserve, maintain or repair their systems, the solar system is basically a zero-risk investments. Users do not need to install solar energy systems through the application of any written document, you can enjoy all the new favorable tax rates. This is the home of solar system the most convenient way.
Experts predict that solar power will be the ultimate power with the traditional way comparable. Now the forecast has been in Massachusetts to achieve. In the past 20 years, Massachusetts has nearly doubled the tariff increase. If this trend continues, solar electricity will be in a short span of 2 years to recover the cost of pre-and at the same time after-tax return on investment will reach 60%.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 24, 2009
Trina Solar 2008 performance growth 175.6%
April 24 news in the international financial crisis, the 2008 fourth quarter financial results, Canadian Solar, Suntech Power, Solarfun Power loss of the three listed companies have more than 50 million U.S. dollars. This is one of the most important reason is that the global photovoltaic industry the most important end-market demand for a sharp contraction in Europe. However, Trina Solar has recently signed between Germany and Italy in the two large contracts.
The first is to provide 4.7MW of PV Italy ErgyCapital generating facilities, the project is currently Italy's largest photovoltaic power generation facilities and the roof of a single solar system, involving approximately 38,000 square meters of solar panels.
The second is with the German customers of the three sales agreements signed. Under the agreement, Trina Solar will supply about 2009 megawatts of PV modules 42, of which 12 MW will be made available to the company Bull Solar.
Trina Solar Sales and Marketing Vice President Arturo Herrero said: "We are very pleased to see such a traditional German market continued to grow in demand. As our high-quality products and low-cost components, which costs more and more recognized by the public, we hope to not only in mature markets, as well as the emerging solar energy market - such as Australia, France, Greece, South Korea and the United States, occupy more market share. "
In the financial crisis under the influence of Trina Solar 2008 performance is still impressive, with a total net turnover amounted to 831.9 million, representing 175.6% growth in 2007. This is the company's strong performance in the fourth quarter inseparable. Trina Solar fourth quarter net loss, although 700,000 U.S. dollars, but with the same industry compared to other companies, such a loss is almost negligible.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 24, 2009
iSuppli: 2009 global sales of solar cells to reduce the 32%
ISuppli forecasts the United States, in 2009 the global solar cell system the overall import volume will be reduced 32 percent over the previous year, fell to 3.5GW. Solar cells is expected to bring the system into the global sales of 40.2 percent year-on-year reduction, to 18.2 billion U.S. dollars. This result is caused mainly due to the solar cell system of the decline in average price-per-watt.
"In the past few years, the solar cell market has been an average annual growth rate of about 40% continue to grow. Therefore, more manufacturers enter the market, and hopes to further expand access to the share of production capacity. But in the end lead to overproduction, as it is expected that the demand for The decrease in sales in 2009 will be substantially reduced. "iSuppli senior director and chief analyst Dr. Henning Wicht, but, according to iSuppli analysis, the market slowdown may change the current pattern of solar cell market. Is expected to most manufacturers of new production capacity will slow the pace of expansion in order to maintain balance between supply and demand.
iSuppli analysis of the market slowdown in 2009 caused the biggest reason is that Spain has declined by a solar cell system into the volume. Spain in 2008 of the solar cell into a whole accounts for 50% of the world. However, due to re-purchase the solar power system "Feed In Tariff", the Spanish market in 2009 is expected to be down there mate. Although the United States and Japan and other countries to encourage the establishment of money into solar cell systems, France, Italy, the Czech Republic and Greece and other countries for a positive investment, it was still difficult to make up for the reduction of part of Spain. Spanish market is expected to slow down on the impact of the global market will continue until 2010.
However, according to Wicht forecast, "the sales of solar systems will be restored after 2010, than in 2011 increased 57.8 percent over the previous year, and in 2012 the growth rate in 2013 will maintain this level. As a result of the next solar system is expected to gain a substantial return on investment (ROI), thus maintaining the growth trend will continue. "
But overall, the decline of solar energy photovoltaic industry is beneficial to the whole thing, it will make the entire industry throughout the supply chain become more mature and orderly.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 22, 2009
The U.S. will become the world's first space solar power generation with the national
It is reported that in 2016, the United States, California Part of the energy used may be from the Earth's orbit around the solar panels. Currently, California's largest power companies - Pacific Gas & Power Company (hereinafter referred to as PG & E) has announced that it plans to build the world For the first orbit of the solar power plant Solaren Corp. Corporation (hereinafter referred to Solaren) the purchase of electricity.
Solaren is a start-up companies, I hope in the commercial development of space solar aspects of the first attempt ever. According to the plan, Solaren will use the Earth's orbit around the solar panels generate electricity, while electricity will be converted into radio frequency wave transmission, the receiving station is located in Fresno is responsible for receiving radio frequency waves. Here, the radio waves will be converted into electricity and enter the power grid.
Solaren CEO Gary Spirnak said, solar power technology has to meet the arrival of the golden era ready. "Although this has not tried before such a system, as well as the size of such a sophisticated structure, but the basic technology is already very mature, they are built on the basis of satellite technology."
It is, PG & E has requested regulatory approval in California, once Solaren completed the construction of the satellite system, made its purchase of 200 megawatts of electricity, the electricity sufficient to meet approximately 150,000 of the electricity needs of the family. In the 10th to the California Public Utilities Commission filings, PG & E admitted: "space solar power plant of similar emerging technologies such as face considerable challenges." However, they also pointed out that: "PG & E believe that this technology has the potential of their own, with a untested new technology compared to the challenges facing our valued consumers to more successfully in the space solar power plant was the tremendous gains. "
Source: windosi.com Apr. 20, 2009
Del Monte to install 1.9-megawatt solar panel system
Del Monte Foods and SunPower Corp. 17 will be installed in the Del Monte and opening up two manufacturing plants to 1.9 megawatts of new solar systems. Combination of these two devices will become the Central Valley of California's largest rooftop solar system. The system is expected within 30 years will be reduced by more than 9500 million pounds of carbon emissions, according to US Environmental Protection Agency to provide determination of the conversion formula, which is equivalent to planting 9800 acres of trees or less in the California Highway near one billion miles driven. Del Monte is estimated that the system will be in the first year of operation of about 500,000 U.S. dollars to save the cost of electricity, and in its operation of 30 years of expected life of 25 million U.S. dollars will be saved.
The new solar system, including a total of 9,080 solar panels covering nearly 200,000 square feet of roof area, it is probably equivalent to the size of 3.5 football pitches. The system will be in the next 30 years to produce enough energy for about 7519 families with electricity.
SunPower Chief Executive Tom Werner said: "The SunPower system will Del Monte factory in the day-to-day needs of the highest moment to provide a clean and renewable solar energy, electricity demand in the highest price of the most expensive and slowed down when the pressure grid. We are Del Monte to significantly reduce operational costs and greenhouse gases in the atmosphere of our content expressed appreciation for the commitment and vision. "
Source: windosi.com Apr. 20, 2009
Webel-Sl construction in India's eastern second solar cell factory
Webel - Sl Energy Systems, Inc. recently said that because of global demand for clean energy increasing, the company now is trying to take this opportunity, so the eastern part of the company's investment in India, 1.8 billion rupees (35.7 million U.S. dollars) building a second production of photovoltaic cells factory.
Webel - Sl Energy Ambarish Bangur Marketing Manager for Dow Jones Newswires in a telephone interview said, "at the plant can be put into operation within one month of operation." Mr Bangur said that the construction of the new plant is located on the outskirts of Calcutta, the plant will improve Webel - Sl Energy Company annual production capacity from the current 12 MW to 42 MW.
For the United States, Europe and Australia's total exports accounted for Webel - Sl energy company's total sales of 95%. He also added that we have only 3% -5% sales are from India. "However, he said, the company also witnessed a country more and more attention to renewable energy and the promotion of the regional demand.
It is reported that China plans to install on the roof of solar panels to subsidize the cost 50%, Bangur said, "China is a potential market", but the company has no plans to set up factories in the country. He said, "My product prices than goods produced in Europe 10-15% Low Price", "If there is demand in the Chinese market, we import from India will be able to compete with other companies."
Source: windosi.com Apr. 3, 2009
The world's largest thin film solar cell power plant built
The world's largest thin-film solar power plant built in Germany, which was known as the "Rote Jahne". JUWI SOLAR from the station to build, the scale there is 6MW. In order to get enough sunlight, a total of 90,000 applied to the solar cell component. Thin-film battery components than in ordinary crystalline silicon solar cells cheaper components, and units of installed capacity will have more energy. The solar power station has been built on an abandoned military airfield on top of the battery components of the surface area of about 16.5 acres. Power station every year 5.7 million kwh generation, enough of the 1900 home consumption.
Juwi Solar at the same time scale is the construction of a 40MW solar park, its thin-film solar cells by the 550,000 block components. The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2009.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 2, 2009
Chinese photovoltaic system cost subsidies accounted for almost half
Person in charge of the Chinese Ministry of Finance on March 31 in response to a question, pointed out that the photovoltaic solar power in 2009 on the grant application and demonstration of building standards identified as 20 yuan / kw, accounting for the cost of the current system of near 50%. Subsidies to reduce the cost of power generation after the one yuan / degree, greatly enhanced the competitiveness of PV.
Completely covered the cost of battery
Person in charge of the Chinese Ministry of Finance said that in 2009 the principle of subsidies on the standard 20 yuan / W, specific criteria will be based architecture combined with the degree of technical sophistication of optoelectronic products and other factors to determine classification. After the annual grants in accordance with industry standards will be the development of an appropriate adjustment. The focus of policy support are building integrated photovoltaic solar power applications, architecture combined with the use of photovoltaic power plant using photovoltaic and other forms of support for this policy is not within the scope of.
Application of photovoltaic solar power system cost the main building consists of two parts, one component of the cost of solar cells. In recent years, with the domestic photovoltaic industry technological progress and expansion of the rapid decline in the cost of solar cells has dropped to 20 yuan / W or less; two applications are the installation costs, including design and construction, balancing system, such as grid access. Combined with the use of architecture in accordance with the different levels, the actual cost to install different applications, higher integration and higher cost of installing an application, the current average cost of installing an application at 20 yuan / watt or so.
Source: windosi.com Apr. 1, 2009
North America's largest photovoltaic roof inaugurated
China PV maker Trina Solar announced that the company in March 2009 at the United States, "Atlanta Convention Center" as a template 13400 Trina Solar energy Solar energy power plant comprising inaugurated, the device total power of 2.4 MW , the largest in North America are installed in a single roof solar power generating equipment.
The project was completed by the end of 2008, is expected to be powered for 280 users, which can be 2132 tons per year to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The Convention Center station to meet a quarter of the energy required, and in the next 20 years for the center to save up to 4.4 million U.S. dollars in energy costs.
Source: windosi.com Mar. 30, 2009
China promulgated "solar roofs program"
China journalist from the Ministry of Finance was informed that the State Council for the implementation of strategic energy-saving emission reduction, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Construction of housing and urban and rural areas has recently issued a series of policies and views to speed up the solar PV technology in the field of urban and rural architecture.
The two departments, at the initial stage of development taken by way of demonstration projects, the implementation of "solar roofs program" to speed up the construction of urban and rural areas of optoelectronics at the popularization and application, to create conditions for large-scale promotion.
And formulate the Ministry of Finance has recently issued the "application of solar PV building Interim Measures for the Administration of financial subsidies." In addition, the department also stressed that the two areas of policy support to strengthen the construction.
Source: windosi.com Mar. 29, 2009
NS Successful acquisition Act Solar
The United States National Semiconductor (NS) announced that the company has successfully Act Solar company mergers and acquisitions. Act Solar is a private enterprise, the main business are for all types of commercial and public users of solar power generating equipment to provide energy efficiency optimization programs.
Act Solar company mergers and acquisitions, after the United States National Semiconductor corresponding solar power to enhance its energy efficiency optimization technology strengths, and has made in its Act Solar solar panels diagnosis and monitoring of leading-edge technology.
The core of the United States National Semiconductor Product Market Mike Polacek, senior vice president, said: "The United States has been committed to using National Semiconductor PowerWise technology to improve the efficiency of solar power generating equipment. Act Solar company mergers and acquisitions, we can further improve the performance of solar power systems and power generation efficiency, at the same time with solar panels on the new monitoring technology. The acquisition will effectively improve the efficiency of solar power generation system and reduce the use of solar power costs. "
Act Solar Products company is now officially become SolarMagic product line. Act Solar company's products use patent-pending new technology, be able to demand flexible manner depending on the application cycle of transmission to compensate for a small amount of power center inverter, so solar power generating system will improve the performance of 6-11%. Because of this technology to ensure that the different balance between the battery plates, but also to ensure that the system to maintain the highest generating capacity. In addition, the technology also the adoption of innovative power tracking method. Its characteristics are the tandem solar energy input, rather than as traditional technologies, like the use of DC / DC voltage conversion method. Whether it is early or the subsequent field testing to the many simulation tests have shown the solution could be solar power system in the life cycle of the cumulative generating capacity of 40-80% improve.
Source: windosi.com Mar. 27, 2009
PV giant Q-CELLS net profit last year reached 187 million euros
By the international financial crisis, the German economy in 2008 have fallen sharply, and in particular the Central than the fourth quarter of GDP decline 2.1 percent, a record since 1990, the biggest decline to the automotive, iron and steel industry, represented by heavy losses.
But the photovoltaic business in good condition. In 2008 the world's second largest solar cell maker Q-CELLS German net profit reached 187 million euros, up 28.5 percent, while in 2007 the company's net profit of 146 million euros. Also in 2008 Q-CELLS Sales revenue was 12.5 billion euros in 2007 compared with 859 million euros.
Sub-region, in 2008 the European Q-CELLS are still the main market. One of the local community in Germany, Q-CELLS Sales revenue for 375 million euros, accounting for 29.9 percent of total income; other EU countries for 439 million euros, accounting for 35.1 percent of total income; in other parts of Europe for 130 million euros, accounting for 10.3 of total income %; Asia for 172 million euros, accounting for 13.8 percent of total income; Africa for 048 million euros, accounting for 3.9 percent of total income; North America for 079 million euros, accounting for 6.3 percent of total income; other parts of the world for 008 million euros, total income of 0.7%.
Sub-products, the 2008 crystalline solar cells are still many Q-CELLS are the main product, multi-crystalline solar cell sales to total revenue up to 85%; followed by single-crystal solar cells 7%, engineering, business, 7 %, as well as thin film solar cells of 1%.
Source: windosi.com Mar. 25, 2009
