Solar radiation map of Italy, click for larger version (Image credit: PVGIS © European Communities)
Italy is going to impose a restrictive set of measures starting this summer which will reduce incentives for solar power project development considerably. The country's support for solar power has been generous in the past years, resulting in the country becoming the second largest solar power market in Europe. However, the country has to ease the burden on consumers, by introducing reductions in incentives for this clean power source in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
Guatemala's tender for purchasing 800 MW of power has attracted interest from many local and foreigh power generators. So far, at least 10 companies have purchased tender documentation (bidding rules), and are preparing to present their bids in late October this year.
Total announced an agreement with EDF under which Total has acquired the remaining 50% share in Tenesol, of which Total already owned a 50% share. This acquisition puts Total in charge of Tenesol's French domestic operations. Overseas department and territory operations are still 50% owned by EDF.
Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) is planning to build a testing facility for offshore wind turbines at the Clydeport Hunterton site, in North Ayrshire, Scotland. The new facility will be an extension of the already existing Centre for Engineering Excellence for Renewable Energy (CEERE) in Glasgow. The center has been established in partnership with major wind turbine suppliers. It will be used for testing of up to three next generation offshore wind turbines at a time. The new facility is subject to approvals by the North Ayrshire Council. If permitted, construction could start in 2012.
