Tristan Rayner
Waratah Super Battery transformer failure raises insurance questions
A transformer failure at the 850 MW Waratah Super Battery could trigger multimillion-dollar insurance claims and project delays, illustrating how a single unit outage can escalate at one of Australia’s largest battery projects.
Hydro approves largest pumped hydro project in more than 20 years in Norway
Norsk Hydro will invest about $110 million after tax to build the Illvatn pumped hydro plant in western Norway.
Europe to require grid-forming capability for new storage, renewables above 1 MW
The European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E) says new EU rules will make grid-forming functions mandatory for large-scale storage and renewable plants.
‘Catastrophic failure’ at Waratah Super Battery in Australia
A key infrastructure asset at one of the world’s biggest batteries has reduced operations and delayed completion for more than six months, with few details made public regarding the critical asset.
Insurers warn of supply chain strain, tighter OEM warranties in battery sector
Insurers say the maturing battery energy storage system (BESS) market is improving risk data and underwriting confidence, but rising fire-related costs, stretched supply chains, and reduced manufacturer warranties are creating new financial pressures.
Unigrid expands sodium-ion battery output via Asian foundries
US–based Unigrid has expanded sodium-ion battery production to 100 MWh a year through contract manufacturing in Asia, with a 1 GWh target for 2026.
Alsym Energy launches sodium-ion battery line
The Massachusetts-based startup says its new battery is non-flammable, non-toxic, and uses non-FEOC (Foreign Entity of Concern) materials, aiming for a lower levelized cost of storage (LCOS). The technical specs provide some highlights as well.
New Zealand approves 200 MWh solar-plus-storage project
A 179 MW solar-plus-storage project near Auckland has secured approval from an independent panel, allowing a commercial decision if the project remains viable under the imposed build and operating conditions.
Ireland sets four-hour, 75%-efficient, 201 MW storage target by 2030
EirGrid, the transmission system operator (TSO) for the Republic of Ireland, has launched a consultation outlining how it will procure its first long-duration energy storage (LDES) capacity.
Prototype magnesium battery operates at room temperature in breakthrough
New research reopens the question around magnesium-based battery viability at room temperatures.
