2023

An international research group has applied for the first time integral backstepping control (IBC) as a control strategy for PV systems connected to microgrids. Through a series of simulations, the scientists found the new approach can provide better results than classic backstepping control (BC) and other techniques.

BayWa re has agreed to acquire Ribeiro Solar, a Brazilian PV distributor headquartered in Curitiba, Paraná. The company also operates distribution centers in Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, and Pernambuco.

Scientists in Pakistan developed a new cleaning system that reportedly not only reduces power losses caused by soiling but is also able to increase PV module performance by reducing its temperature. It could be applied to both residential and commercial PV systems.

The authorities in Arizona have upheld the precedent of capping the reduction at 10% for compensation rates for rooftop PV, following a proposal for a 37% cut. However, there is a possibility of new risks emerging, according to the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Lochinvar has developed a heat pump with a hot water supply of up to 70 C, with a coefficient of performance (COP) of 5.5. The system is entirely cascadable, offering outputs ranging from 88 kW to 880 kW. It also includes 455 liters of hot water storage capacity and uses propane (R290) as a refrigerant.

Jaguar Land Rover and Wykes Engineering are building a 2.5 MWh storage system with electric-vehicle batteries taken from Jaguar I-PACE cars. The large-scale system will store wind and solar at an undisclosed location in the United Kingdom.

The South Korean government says it plans to set up a 1 GW data center complex powered by solar. The expansive facility will be built in Haenam, a county in South Jeolla province. It will accommodate 25 data centers, each with a capacity of 40 MW.

Engie has acquired 350 MW of operating storage assets and 880 MW of assets under construction from US battery specialist Broad Reach Power, with commissioning of the latter assets expected by the end of 2024.

Developed by scientists in Malaysia, the new PVT system is based on a nanoparticle-enhanced phase change material (Nano-PCM) and twisted absorber tubes. The system consists of a 30 W photovoltaic module, absorber tubes attached to the back of the panel via enhanced silicone glue bond, and a PCM container surrounding the tubes.

The French authorities have concluded a procurement exercise for commercial and industrial (C&I) rooftop PV projects, allocating 378 MW of solar capacity to 60 developers at an average price of €0.10195 ($0.09066)/kWh.