UNSW scientists surpass 10% efficiency with CZTS PV cell
Researchers at UNSW have surpassed 10% efficiency for a cell based on copper zinc tin sulfide – sulfide kesterite. It is the fourth time in two years the group has set a new record for the efficiency of cells based on such materials.
Cubbie powers cotton production with PV, Aevitas awarded EPC contract
Aevitas will design and construct a 3.6 MW solar PV array for Australia’s largest cotton producer. The Cubbie Solar Project will supply 40% of Cubbie’s electricity demand, during its peak ginning season between April and September.
Taiwan’s Neo Solar Power narrows loss ahead of merger
Taiwanese cell producer, Neo Solar Power has posted a net loss of NT$390 million (US$12.75 million) for the second quarter of 2018. Though indicative of the difficult times currently facing Taiwan’s cell manufacturers, the figures represent a 39.3% reduction compared with the previous quarter’s loss.
Combining PPAs with demand response delivers savings for businesses
A new report shows that coupling renewable power purchase agreements with demand response, reducing consumption when prices are high, could increase electricity savings on top of those delivered under the PPA by one third.
Study: 32% tandem cell solar still competitive at triple the price
Arizona State University researchers have determined that a 32% efficient perovskite-silicon tandem cell could produce electricity at the same price as cutting-edge 22% efficient panels in the most cost-competitive of situations
Egypt receives two bids under $0.03/kWh in 200 MW solar tender
The lowest bid was submitted by Spanish developer Fotowatio, which offered US$0.02791 per kWh. Slightly higher, at $0.02799 per kWh, was the offer of Saudi power company, ACWA.
Majority of Australians want more renewables, poll shows
In the lead up to a COAG energy ministers’s critical meeting this week, a poll conducted by ReachTEL for Greenpeace Australia Pacific shows that over 70% of respondents want an ambitious renewable energy target to drive down electricity prices.
Beijing about-turn influenced collapse of polysilicon deal
Shanghai Electric says the Chinese government’s abrupt decision to rein in solar was a significant factor in the collapse of its planned US$3.64 billion acquisition of a controlling stake in the world’s biggest poly maker.
Labor calls for coalition party room support before NEG agreement
The Australian Labor Party is rallying around a position demanding that the coalition party room signs off on the National Energy Guarantee (NEG) before Labor-lead state governments give their go-ahead. Federal energy and environment minister Josh Frydenburg will take the policy to state energy ministers on Friday.
Increasingly complex connection requirements delaying projects, damaging economics
Difficulties in finalizing grid connection are causing Australian utility scale PV project developers delays, potentially undermining viability. The impact can be particularly harmful for merchant projects, with LGC and wholesale electricity prices forecast to fall over the next two years.
