Solar Markets & Finance

After committing to freeze its electricity prices until 2012 renewable electricity supplier Good Energy has stepped up its commitment to solar energy, aiming to source one third of its electricity from the power of the sun. This news marks a major milestone for the industry, as solar previously represented less than 1% of the company’s output.

After fending off competition from almost 200 keen applicants, Sharp Solar’s installer competition winner has now completed his training. Walking away as a competent solar photovoltaics installer, Matthew Hawkins of Pembrokeshire, Wales now plans to complete his Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accreditation in order to begin bringing solar power to UK homes.

Providing installers with a UK-based dedicated support network Sanyo Component Europe today launches the Solar Premium Installer Programme. The new website offers experienced solar photovoltaics installers the opportunity to keep up with the latest industry developments while increasing their penetration of…

The latest research from Barclays finds that more than a third of the UK’s 200,000 farmers are expecting to invest in renewable energy, with the aim of generating returns averaging £25,000 per year. The survey of 300 dairy farmers in England, Scotland and Wales throughout August 2011 was published to correspond with the launch of a £100 million fund, which will help to make these plans a reality.

At a time when Government is striving to gear up its ‘go green’ strategy, new research conducted by utility and environmental consultancy Gemserv has identified a widespread lack of green awareness. Over 50% of the survey respondents were unable to correctly identify that Government’s Green Deal is related to energy efficiency initiatives, suggesting instead that it was designed to protect national forests or to increase the number of hybrid cars on the road.

Adding to the list of UK footballs clubs to gather solar support, Bolton Wanderers have signed a one-year partnership with Hanwha Group. The agreement will grant Hanwha billboard and video advertising space during home games at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium.

One of the world’s largest solar companies, Canadian Solar, has become the official solar energy sponsor of Fulham Football Club. The two-year deal extends Canadian Solar’s support of sports teams globally, including top European football teams Hannover 96 and 1. FC Nuremberg.

Michael Fister has been appointed Enecsys’ new Chief Executive Officer and board member, effective August 22. Taking over from Henrik Raunkjaer, he brings over 30 years of executive experience with technology companies, most recently spending five years as CEO of Cadence Design Systems.

UK-based solar energy company Solarcentury has donated a total of £130,000 worth of solar panels and money to SolarAid – the charity founded by Solarcentury to tackle fuel poverty and climate change with solar power.

Reading Borough Council is considering installing solar panels on the town’s schools and council buildings in an attempt to tackle escalating energy costs. On Wednesday the council’s cabinet met to discuss the feasibility of the £5 million solar scheme.