NTPC commissions solar-hydrogen-based microgrid in India
NTPC has developed a standalone solar microgrid system that uses hydrogen as the storage medium to deliver 200 kW of round-the-clock power throughout the year. Designed to replace diesel gensets at off-grid Army locations, the system provides a reliable and sustainable power supply even in harsh winter conditions, where temperatures can drop to –40 C at an altitude of 4,500 meters.
South Korean solar inverter industry raises cybersecurity concerns
South Korean solar inverter makers have jointly launched a new association of inverter manufacturers to coordinate domestic production, safeguard local expertise, and address import-driven market issues and grid stability challenges.
The Hydrogen Stream: EWE begins work on 320 MW hydrogen plant in Germany
EWE says construction has started on its 320 MW hydrogen plant in Germany as it seeks regulatory reforms, while Japan Suiso Energy and Kawasaki Heavy Industries have broken ground on a commercial-scale liquefied hydrogen terminal set to begin operations in 2030.
Trina Storage launches AC-coupled battery for utility-scale applications
Offered primarily as a 10 MW unit, the new product is also available in a 5.5 MW version for customers with specific requirements.
China moves to curb irrational competion in battery energy storage industry
The Chinese Ministry said it will take swift action to rein in aggressive low‑price competition that threatens to destabilize businesses and impede sustainable industry growth.
Sodium-ion battery cell cost could drop to $40/kWh, says IRENA
A report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) notes that while it is still uncertain whether sodium-ion batteries will become a disruptive alternative to lithium-ion technology, they could offer significant cost-saving opportunities in applications such as electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage.
Pakistan needs to declare a ‘battery emergency’
Solar association chair argues urgent battery energy storage deployment is key to supporting continued PV boom in Pakistan. Residential solar CEO predicts surge in behind-the-meter storage demand if and when Pakistan’s generous net metering policy is wound down.
Sungrow unveils new modular C&I battery with long-duration storage capability
The new 12.5 kWh pack-based design supports flexible configuration up to 250 kWh per system. An optional long-duration combiner box supports 2–4 clusters, expandable to 1,000 kWh and 8 hours of storage.
China advances 4.2 GWh compressed air storage project
Zhongchu Guoneng (Beijing) Technology Co., Ltd. (ZCGN) says officials in Sanmenxia, Henan province, have cleared a 700 MW/4,200 MWh compressed air energy storage proposal that is designed to support long-duration grid flexibility as renewable generation increases.
Somalia launches tender for solar-storage systems at health facilities
A tender is open in Somalia for the installation of off-grid solar-plus-storage systems at 22 selected healthcare facilities in the country’s North Eastern State. The deadline for applications is Jan. 15, 2026.
