Q-Cells says its new backside polycrystalline cell technology has resulted in solar modules with a record 17.84% efficiency rating (aperture area) and 268W of output.

Solar3D is still squarely in the development phase, with some details of its concentrator-style silicon photovoltaic cell still in theoretical mode. But the nanoscale light-capture technology is not all that makes this start-up unique: Solar3D CEO Jim Nelson says they have no interest in venture capital funding.

Prices will continue to fall sharply throughout the crystalline silicon (c-Si) supply chain for at least the next few months, largely because installations are slowing as key regions adjust their incentive schemes, says IMS Research.

A pair of recent deals among Taiwanese and Chinese mc-Si silicon suppliers illustrate the growing importance of streamlining the value chain from ingots to cells, explains Lux Research's Ted Sullivan.

Mascotte Holdings Limited will acquire a controlling 50.1% stake of Sun Materials, a Taiwan-based polycrystalline silicon manufacturer, with a consideration of US$150,000,000. Sun Materials claims a new polySi production process that saves costs and improves the environmental effect of silicon growth and production.

A joint venture agreement between JA Solar and MEMC's affiliate, MEMC Singapore, will build and operate a solar cell production facility in China. In Phase One of the project, the joint venture will build a production facility with a capacity of 250MW of PV cells.

On the back of 2010's record demand, there are growing concerns that photovoltaic (PV) module supply is set to outstrip demand throughout 2011, leading to significant oversupply in the industry. But are these concerns well-founded? And if they are, what impact might the oversupply have on the global PV industry?

Enphase Energy, micro-inverter maker, launched operations in France and Italy. Enphase Energy has chosen the Rhone-Alpes for its location, naming Olivier Jacques, GM France and Benelux, to head development.

MSGI Technology Solutions Inc. (OTCBB: MSGI), a provider of proprietary solutions to commercial and government organizations, provided a science and technology update to its investors on its solar cell array based on nanotube pillars.

Italy has officially removed the presumed 8GW cap on incentives for solar power production, but the move creates more uncertainty about supply/demand metrics in an already overheated market.