Grids & Integration

Scientists have simulated a solar-powered hydrogen production system comprising 32,050 photovoltaic panels, a pumping system, a seawater reverse-osmosis desalination unit, an electrolyzer, and a hydrogen storage tank. Operation of the system in Oman could potentially yield a levelized cost of electricity of $0.05/kWh and a levelized cost of hydrogen of $9.5/kg.

Researchers in Slovakia have demonstrated a machine-learning framework that predicts PV inverter output and detects anomalies using only electrical and temporal data, achieving 100% accuracy in classifying inverter output states under static operating conditions at a solar installation.

A study analyzing urban bifacial PV systems in high-latitude areas found they can generate 9–13% more electricity than monofacial panels under snow conditions, particularly in winter, while also achieving a lower levelized cost of electricity. The research developed a techno-economic optimization model considering snow effects, panel orientation, interrow spacing, and operation modes, highlighting sensitivity to market conditions and discount rates.

A document published by the European Commission on strengthening the EU’s economic security lists reliance on Chinese solar inverters as an example of high-risk dependency. It adds the commission plans to address such risks under its cybersecurity framework.

Germany has connected the world’s first supercapacitor-based STATCOM to the grid, with Siemens Energy and transmission system operator TenneT positioning it as a blueprint to replace fossil-fuel generators in providing instantaneous reserve and reactive power.

Low-cost renewables provide an opportunity for tropical islands to drive a sustainable, secure and self-sufficient economy. Solar PV emerges as the bulk energy provider, driven by excellent resource conditions and fast-improving economic attractiveness. The anticipated momentum of solar PV in tropical islands can best be characterised as a Solar-to-X Economy.

The M2HT series has an output range of 75–125 kW and is the company’s first product in the 125 kW power class.

As smart grid tech is rolled out around the world to modernize legacy assets and integrate renewable energy generation, it is also making the electricity network more prone to cyber attacks. IEC Standards provide protection but they also are challenged to keep up with the latest threats.

UK energy regulator green-lights transmission network operator budgets for five-year period. Initial budget of GBP 10.3 billion ($13.7 billion) approved with an upper-bound estimate of GBP 70 billion transmission investment by 2031. At least GBP 44 billion of transmission spend has already been committed, according to the regulator.

The Southern Johor Renewable Energy Corridor (SJREC) forms part of a $6 billion project developing a 2,000 kilometer-squared hybrid solar and battery energy storage system zone set to connect South East Asia.