EUROPE
German Minister of Environment announces 15% cut in feed-in-tariff. (Jan. 22)
- The cuts include a new 15% cut for open-space and rooftop solar projects, representing a 26% and 24% cumulative cut respectively. The cuts precipitate a run on solar PV systems and accelerated emigration of technology abroad. Read more…
Ofgem announces additional £1Bn network investment to meet carbon reduction targets. (Jan. 19)
- The funding will be released in three tranches, with the first £319 focused on connecting renewable energy sources. This announcement comes in addition to an initial £3.8Bn allocated to three companies to upgrade transmission networks. Read more…
NORTH AMERICA
Ontario finalizes $7Bn solar-wind development deal with Samsung. (Jan. 21)
- The project includes 2,500 MW of solar and wind developments and four manufacturing plants to be built by 2013. The deal marks a strategic step forward for Ontario as it seeks to become a major provider of renewable technology to the US market. Read more…
DOE awards $37M for solid-state lighting projects. (Jan. 18)
- The 17 projects include research, product development and domestic manufacturing for LED and organic LED lighting. This is the first time the DOE allocates funds for manufacturing of solid-state lighting — representing an expanded effort to lower manufacturing costs and accelerate adoption. Read more…
California launches $350M program to replace natural gas and electric hot water heaters with solar heaters. (Jan. 21)
- Customers will receive up to 30% of the replacement cost. The program will likely provide the example for many other states to promote more energy efficient heating programs. Read more…
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