Korean scientists build PV-powered supercapacitor with 35.5 Wh/kg energy density
Scientists in Korea have fabricated a solar-powered charging device that can reportedly achieve a power density of 2,555.6 W kg and an energy efficiency of 63%. The system uses nickel-based compounds to enhance the electrochemical performance of its electrodes.
Oversized solar farm keeps lights on until midnight
A massive 2.4 GW solar power plant with a 2:1 DC-to-AC ratio, coupled with six hours of energy storage, has been approved in northern Oregon.
Romania finances 1.5 GW solar panel factory
Romania’s Ministry of Energy has given the green light to a 1.5 GW solar panel factory to be built in the northeastern part of the country.
Sierra Leone adopts financing model for private minigrid developers
Sierra Leone’s government is working with the European Union to launch a results-based financing mechanism, offering grants to private developers to build, own, and operate minigrids across the country.
New simulation tool maps existing, planned district heating networks
Researchers in Germany have developed a simulation software tool that visualizes heat flows in existing district heating networks and is capable of predicting load peaks. It can also be used to help plan and commission new grids.
Storing photovoltaic-thermal energy with volcanic tuff stones
Scientists in China have used ground heat exchangers based on volcanic tuff stones to improve storage capabilities and efficiency of photovoltaic-thermal systems. Their experiments showed that the proposed combination effectively improves PV module cooling and thermal efficiency.
Australian researchers question lack of solar microgrids in remote areas
Researchers from four Australian universities have released a new paper questioning why solar microgrids are not the norm in remote central Australia.
EcoFlow launches residential energy management system
At CES 2025, EcoFlow has launched its Oasis energy management platform, which uses AI to optimize home energy consumption, storage, and solar power use.
Spanish startup deploys utility-scale batteries made from used EV devices
The Port of Alicante will install three 7 MW systems, each comprised of hundreds of 14 kW modules assembled by Spanish startup GDV.
Maltese scientists design offshore virtual power plant integrating PV, wind, storage
The proposed virtual power plant (VPP) integrates a platform-to-ship (P2S) setup to electrify anchored and bunkering ships, while also providing surplus electricity to the country’s grid. The system was designed to operate through a 200 MW floating wind farm and a 300 MW floating PV plant, with battery and compressed air systmes being used for energy storage.
