Weekly Solar Industry Insights: September 23rd – September 29th, 2024
Vietnam Launches New Net-Metering Scheme for Rooftop Solar
Vietnam is set to implement a new net-metering scheme, allowing excess electricity sold to the grid to increase from 10% to 20% of generated power. The initial net-metering tariff is proposed at VND 671 ($0.027)/kWh. The government aims for 13.6 GW of utility-scale solar and 3.4 GW of rooftop solar by 2045, alongside efforts to expand wind power and electricity imports.
EU Initiates Infringement Procedures Against 26 Member States Over Energy Permit Laws
The European Commission has formally notified 26 member states for failing to implement the revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED), aimed at streamlining permitting procedures for renewable energy projects. Effective since November 2023, the directive required transposition into national law by July 2024, but only Denmark has complied. Key provisions include expedited permitting for renewable infrastructure, set deadlines for approvals, and a strengthened role for a single contact point for applications. Member states have two months to respond before further action is taken.
Jordan Launches Rebate Scheme for Residential PV Systems
Jordan has introduced a rebate program covering up to 30% of costs for residential photovoltaic systems, funded by the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund. The initiative aims to support approximately 4,000 PV systems, enhancing access to renewable energy solutions as Jordan continues to expand its solar capacity.
Southern U.S. Solar Production Surges in August Amid Northeastern Challenges
August 2024 witnessed a significant uptick in solar energy production across the Southeastern U.S., with states like Tennessee and Alabama experiencing irradiance levels up to 130% above average due to favorable weather conditions. Atlanta recorded its highest average daily irradiance since 2007. Conversely, the Northeast and Midwest faced cloudier conditions and reduced solar generation potential as cold fronts and heavy rain affected irradiance levels.
Polysilicon Prices Steady Amid Trade Policy Uncertainties
Polysilicon prices remain stable at $22.068/kg, despite uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariffs on solar cells and modules from Southeast Asia, with a preliminary ruling delayed until November 27. Suppliers rely on long-term contracts for price stability, while demand in China is estimated to be below 100,000 MT amid projected production of 130,000 MT to 140,000 MT in September.
El Salvador Achieves Solar Power Milestone
By the end of 2023, solar energy made up 21.1% of El Salvador's electricity mix, with a total installed photovoltaic capacity of 633 MW. The country's renewable sources now contribute to 61.5% of the energy supply, thanks to competitive auctions that support large-scale solar projects.
Breakthrough in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
An international research team has developed the first flexible perovskite solar cells on polycarbonate substrates, achieving a power conversion efficiency of 13.0%. These cells maintain 87% efficiency after extensive bending cycles, presenting potential for applications in smart windows and portable electronics.
Spain Updates National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan
Spain's Council of Ministers has approved a Royal Decree updating its National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC 2023-30), aiming for 76 GW of solar capacity and 62 GW of wind power by 2030. Industry leaders stress the need for concrete measures to ensure successful implementation and capitalize on Spain's renewable resources.
U.S. Solar Industry Poised for Growth
The U.S. solar industry is on track to install over 250 GW of new capacity in the next five years, following the Inflation Reduction Act's passage. Despite some challenges in the residential market, strong clean energy policies continue to drive job creation and economic growth across all states.
Information Source: PV Magazine
