Winaico to launch HJT modules in Australian market
Taiwanese module maker Winaico is set to launch its heterojunction (HJT) PV modules in Q2 2018. The high powered PV panels feature a favourable temperature co-efficient, offering a high powered module for high temperature rooftop applications.
Equis Energy snapped up by GIP in record $5bn renewables deal
The Singapore-based renewable energy developer has agreed to be sold to investment fund Global Infrastructure Partners. China Investment Corp, Canada’s PSP Investments and other co-investors are also involved in the deal, which is the largest yet seen for the renewable energy industry.
UNSW Scientist receives award for work on solar cell efficiency
Dr. Brett Hallam of the University of New South Wales’ (UNSW) School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy engineering has been awarded a prestigious State Premier’s Prize for Science and Engineering.
Queensland to offer no-interest loans for solar systems
As part of the $2 billion affordable energy plan, the Queensland Government has announced it will invest $40 million in schemes to improve access to both solar energy and storage systems.
RES reaches financial close on 68 MW PV plant in Queensland
RES Australia has announced financial close on the Emerald Solar Park, a 68 MW PV project to be located in the Central Highlands region of Queensland. The project is the first in Australia to be supported by a PPA with a corporate off-taker.
LONGi claims 22.71% PERC efficiency world record
Germany’s Fraunhofer ISE CalLab has confirmed that China’s Longi Green Energy Technology has achieved a record 22.71% conversion efficiency with its monocrystalline passivated emitter rear contact (PERC) solar cells.
Solar costs will fall 60% over next decade to fuel PV adoption, says IRENA head
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) forecasts as much as 90 GW of new solar additions annually across the globe over the next few years, driving a 60% reduction in costs.
Interview: China’s PV developers see opportunities in Australian market growth
Chinese PV component suppliers and project developers are continuing to push strongly in to international markets and are eyeing up new opportunities in Australia. Tenders, hybrid arrays and agri-PV all represent opportunities.
VRET passed into law
The Victorian Andrews Labor Government’s Renewable Energy Target (RET) has passed into law. The move mandates 25% of the state’s electricity is to be sourced from renewables by 2020 and 40% by 2025.
Uncertainty reigns for WA under NEG
The future of solar deployment in Western Australia remains uncertain under the Federal Government’s National Energy Guarantee policy. Excluded from the program, WA solar proponents report that market conditions “may get even harder” for PV in the state.
