COVID-19 has ‘exposed the vulnerability’ of value chains, says development bank as it advises other countries to develop domestic PV sector through standalone or collective action.

Having already guided expected GAAP net losses of US$145-195 million for 2020, high-performance PV manufacturer, SunPower is planning to make operating cuts to save around US$50 million, due to ongoing impact of COVID-19 and has withdrawn previous financial guidance for the year.

‘Solar Module Super League’ (SMSL) member concludes facilities in Ohio and Malaysia are exempt so far from government restrictions, while Vietnam factory remains ‘not affected’.

Government approves previously floated plans to allow renewable developers to invoke ‘force majeure’ clauses to win more time as virus continues to disrupt PV supply chains.

Facility’s location at out-of-the-way Si Racha zone, preliminary stocking of raw materials and the still-healthy state of global freight have helped minimise impacts, manufacturer tells PV Tech.

Squabble over individual amendment leads to vote against entire American Energy Innovation Act, potentially delaying until 2021 deal on new US$270m-a-year solar research programme.