The introduction of national licensing will now start in 2013. This first wave of licences to be affected includes electrical, plumbing and gasfitting, refrigeration and air conditioning, and property occupations. [ + ]

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed what they call a “turbo for solar cells” that could enable low-cost solar cells to reach 40% efficiency. [ + ]

Spirent Communications has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Mu Dynamics, based in Sunnyvale, California, for a cash consideration of $40m. [ + ]

The Communications Electrical Plumbing Union (CEPU) has criticised Malcolm Turnbull’s plans to cut back the National Broadband Network (NBN) from fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) to fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) should the Coalition win government in 2013, calling the plans “technologically illiterate”. [ + ]

Malcolm Turnbull MP has criticised the National Broadband Network (NBN) rollout, saying it is moving “with the determination and velocity of an arthritic snail”. [ + ]

The compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) market is set to flourish in the next few years, according to a report published by business intelligence company GlobalData. Increased demand for energy-efficient lighting coupled with the increasing compatibility of CFLs with existing lighting infrastructure is causing a steep rise in the market for new lamps and replacements. [ + ]

Master Electricians Australia has criticised ACTU President Ged Kearney’s call to double apprentice wages, claiming that it would “destroy the apprenticeship system” and end training opportunities for young Australians. [ + ]

The Gillard Government has announced its full support for all of the recommendations of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) Expert Review. The review was conducted to advise on the design of the $10 billion CEFC, which will provide funding for renewable energy, low emissions and energy efficiency technology. [ + ]

The Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES) has welcomed the release of a Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) Expert Review Report, but said the government now needs to introduce legislation formally establishing the CEFC. [ + ]

The global recession could threaten the smart grid collaboration between the European Union and the United States, according to a recent study by business intelligence group GBI Research. [ + ]

Apprentice electricians are visiting Parliament House as part of their campaign to increase apprentice electrician wages, which can be as low as $225 per week for a first-year apprentice. [ + ]

Recent photovoltaics research has resulted in new technology that could see buildings entirely powered by sunlight. Using the new technology, conventional glass on buildings would be covered with solar cells that would provide the building with all its energy requirements. It is anticipated this technology could be commercially available within five years. [ + ]

Following a meeting with Skills Minister Chris Evans, apprentice electricians are feeling optimistic about the Communications Electrical Plumbing Union (CEPU) campaign to increase apprentice electrician wages. [ + ]

Photovoltaics company Q-Cells Australia will continue operations, despite the preliminary insolvency procedure of its parent company, Germany-based Q-Cells SE. [ + ]

Registration for the East Solar Expo & Conference has opened. The event is free to attend, but registration is essential. It will be held over 21-22 August at the Melbourne Conference and Exhibition Centre. [ + ]