BMW, Tesla open factories in China in spite of trade dispute
In the wake of the U.S.-China trade dispute, the Chinese government has loosened its policy on ownership caps for factory sites for foreign car brands. Previously, car companies could only retain 50% of the ownership of a factory and had to set up a joint venture with a Chinese partner. By setting up shop in China, Tesla can avoid import duties on its cars, to cater to a broader customer base.
Solar loans overtake third-party as dominant residential solar model
While residential solar leases and PPAs peaked in 2016, GTM Research is now predicting that solar loans will represent nearly half the market this year.
Panasonic mulls further investment in Tesla battery gigafactory as shortages loom
The suggestion of additional investments beyond the $1.6 billion follows reports of battery cell shortages as Tesla’s Model 3 picks up production. It is unknown what impacts this will have on Tesla’s stationary storage business.
Vistra, Tesla and PG&E seeking world’s first 1 GWh+ batteries
PG&E is seeking approval from California regulators for four energy storage projects totalling 567 MW / 2.27 GWh – including a 300 MW / 1200 MWh system by Vistra Energy, and a 182.5 MW / 730 MWh system by Tesla.
Elon Musk’s unprecedented solar+storage vision for Puerto Rico moves forward
Puerto Rico is requesting ten 20 MW / 20 MWh batteries to be deployed strategically in the country’s power grid. The RFQ notes that sites should be upgradable to 40 MW / 160 MWh.
Tesla to close at least 13 solar installation offices in nine states
Reuters reports that nearly 20% of its installation facilities will close, as part of the company’s 9% workforce reduction announced last week.
Tesla to lay off 9% of workforce, quit Home Depot
The company will return to selling solar primarily through its stores and online.
Tesla stays on top of the California solar market
While Tesla/SolarCity, Vivint and Sunrun still made up the top three in 2017, the “long tail” of installers is gaining market share.
Tesla and Panasonic to kill cobalt curse
Panasonic announced an aim to produce batteries for Tesla without using cobalt, much of which is sourced from the unstable and conflict-ridden Congo.
Arizona’s largest solar plus storage plant starring Tesla, First Solar and NEXTracker
Arizona utility Salt River Project has brought together a technological trifecta in its recently commissioned single-axis tracker 20 MW solar plus 10 MW/40 MWh energy storage power plant.
