SolarCity to make BIPV modules at Buffalo factory, will consider cell partnership
Industry analysts note that the market for residential BIPV in the United States is “non-existent” at present, and SolarCity’s plans to use crystalline silicon are a new direction.
3D-Micromac opens North American headquarters in San Jose
This is the first major presence of the German laser experts in North America.
SunPower to shed 1,200 jobs as it cuts revenue forecast and expects 2016 loss
Extension of the ITC has stripped urgency from U.S. market, company CEO says, prompting a rethink on solar power plant timeline. SunPower will close Philippines fab as part of re-positioning of supply.
Exclusive: Solarworld CEO Frank Asbeck breaks silence on Hemlock dispute
Solarworld CEO Frank Asbeck talks to pv magazine on the recent finding against the company in its legal dispute with Hemlock Semiconductor. A supremely confident Asbeck explains why he doesn’t think the judge’s decision changes the case at hand, while still expecting a settlement with Hemlock, and why any final decision will not affect the company’s American subsidiary nor the German company.
SolarWorld Q2 shipments, revenues rise, as legal troubles mount
SolarWorld has increased its Q2 2016 shipments 39% YoY, to 342 MW, in 2016. Revenues increased almost 30% for the quarter, to €222 million ($246 million), while achieving an EBIT profit of €20.5 ($22.7 million) million.
Hemlock claims $793.5 million in damages from SolarWorld
SolarWorld could face bankruptcy as a result of its polysilicon supply dispute with Hemlock. The U.S. polysilicon supplier is claiming up to $793.5 million in damages, in court documents acquired by Reuters today.
Deutsche Bank: U.S. utility-scale solar costs to fall below $1 per watt
The bank says that lower-than-expected U.S. demand coupled with significant new module supply is leading to greatly reduced costs and prices in the U.S. market.
Trina Solar hits 21.1% efficiency for mono PERC cells produced in industrial conditions
The Chinese solar module producer says it has achieved 21.1% average efficiency for P-type monocrystalline PERC cells produced in industrial standard conditions.
ABB to close Phoenix inverter fab, move jobs to Estonia and Italy
The Swiss power electronics firm will end manufacturing operations at the U.S. site, shifting an undisclosed number of jobs to Estonia and Italy later this year. Some sales and service staff will be retained in Phoenix.
Wacker Chemie partners with 1366 Technologies
The world’s second-largest polysilicon maker will provide the kerfless wafer startup with a $15 million equity investment, a supply of polysilicon and technical assistance.
