With their capability to increase the efficiency of solar photovoltaics (PV) systems, module level power management (MLPM) solutions are set for fast growth, new IHS iSuppli research indicates. By the end of 2014, 38% of residential PV installations worldwide will employ MLPM solutions, up from 2% in 2010.

Bentek Solar introduced an extended line of Circuit Breaker Wall and Rooftop Solar Re-Combiners. The circuit breaker design is a cost-competitive and convenient alternative to fuses with an integrated load break disconnect.

The PV inverter market enjoyed record shipments and revenues during 2010, but also showed some fundamental weaknesses typical of an industry that is still maturing and learning, and these lessons set the stage for 2011, writes Tom Haddon from IMS Research.

Solar cell cost discussions usually turn to cell efficiency, silicon used, etc. Increasingly, balance of system (BOS) costs are taking a larger slice of the PV installation pie. In turn, inverters and power electronics are coming under heightened scrutiny by cost cutters and technology innovators, say bloggers on Lux Populi.

Chuck O'Brien operates three markets in California's central valley, where his customers know him for providing fresh food and superior service.

Critical Manufacturing, software provider, won an order from Juli New Energy Co. Ltd., subsidiary of Juli Group, located in Baoding, China. The PV producer selected cmNavigo's Solar Edition MES for Critical Manufacturing.

The PV industry is a bare-knuckle boxer, fighting for its life against conventional and other renewable energy technologies, the energy buying public's attention span, high costs, and low margins. Navigant Consulting's Paula Mints suggests some updated rules to make it a fairer fight.

Samsung and TSMC are among a new wave of Asian electronics giants seeking to translate their know-how in cost-conscious markets and manufacturing efficiencies into a slice of hot solar PV marketplace pie, notes IMS Research.

Despite an anticipated surge in PV installations during 2011, the start of the year will be bumpy due to a temporary demand lull and rising inventories, warns IHS iSuppli.

Siliken Canada Corporation has leased a building near the airport of Windsor, Ontario. Hiring of people of all sets of skills has started, equipment is on the way, and production is scheduled to start in April 2011.