Solar Energy Investing

The Cheers News reports on the scheme in Nigeria to provide electricity to as many as 10 rural communities. Construction on the project has begun and they are expected to be delivered around January of next year. The scheme will benefit about 5,000 people.

Engadget reports on the Nellis solar energy system. The 14-MW system is called America’s “Largest solar photovoltaic system,” but it may not be for long. Cleantech America plans a massive 80 MW project in California.

The cheers News reports on the discovery of nano flakes. It is believed the future of solar cells would better utilize solar energy, as nano flakes reduce the distance of energy transportation, resulting in less loss of energy.

Alternative Energy reports HelioVolt Corp. announced the opening of its first manufacturing facility at the Expo Business Park in Austin. HelioVolt is an Austin, Texas-based producer of thin fil solar energy products. The facility is predicted to create more than 150 jobs at the facility, which should be operational by mid-2008.

AER-Online reports the Canadian Solar Industries Association announced winners of its annual awards for recognizing achievement in PV and solar thermal developments across Canada. Some of the awards are titled: Solar leader of the year, Solar Industry Leader of the Year, Solar Public Servant of the Year, and Solar Journalist of the Year.

DigiTimes reports the average selling price of solar cells are expected to rise in 2008 due to a shortage of polysilicon. The shortage has created high material costs although some companies are looking for ways to avoid adjusting the ASP.

ZeeNews reports The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in New Delhi has launched a new scheme for installation of Megawatt Capacity Grid Interactive Solar Power Plants that includes a 50 MW solar power plant. The ministry declared generation-based incentive for the first time.

Forbes reports Akeena Solar shares soared after signing a licensing deal with Suntech Power Holdings. The agreement is to distribute its Andalay home solar panel system in Europe, Japan and Australia.

Reuters reports Gloria Spire Solar announced that it won a contract to design and install a 308-kw PV solar electric system at the Lee Company’s manufacturing facility in Westbrook, CT. The system will be the largest solar electric system to be installed for a manufacturing company in Connecticut.

MSN Money reports General Electric has announced its GE Energy Financial Services unit will be partnering with SunPower Corp. to finance five solar power plants in California. GE Energy Financial Services will acquire a majority stake in the projects SunPower will build, operate and maintain according to the deal.