Benchmarks for solar energy data, methods
The lower the uncertainty in solar resource data, the lower the investment costs. IEA PVPS Task 16 has organized and published two benchmarks to make uncertainty of models and data comparable – a first important step. The benchmarks included modeled solar resource data and methods to fill gaps in measurements.
Infrastructure reform is key to accelerating Africa’s energy transition
In its latestt monthly column for pv magazine, the International Renewable Energy Agency explains that, in order to realize Africa’s vast potential, we must ensure there is adequate investment and infrastructure development to support renewable energy. In the coming years, this means urgently overcoming the structural barriers across three priorities: infrastructure, policy, and institutional capabilities.
Jamaica seeks proposals for 100 MW of renewables
The Jamaican government is seeking 100 MW of renewables to diversify its energy grid, with independent power producers to generate this capacity through wind, solar, and hydro projects recommended under power purchase agreements (PPAs), according to tender documents.
New floating PV system design from Brazil
A Brazilian consortium is testing a new floating PV system design on a lake in the state of Sao Paulo. The facility is setting standards for future development of floating arrays in Brazil.
Cyprus starts first nanogrid project
The University of Cyprus and energy developer Ecotricity Holdings have jointly installed a nanogrid system for a single building in Cyprus. The aim is to minimize the site’s energy consumption costs and eliminate the power system’s carbon footprint.
How long do residential solar batteries last?
Multiple factors affect the lifespan of residential battery energy storage systems. We look at the lifespans of batteries in the third part of this series.
Octopus Energy introduces new residential heat pumps
Octopus Energy has developed new residential heat pumps, with plans to initially market a 6 kW version, followed by larger models in the near future. The UK-based company makes the heat pumps at its facility in Craigavon, Northern Ireland.
Armenia builds first floating PV project
France’s Nepsen has completed the first floating solar project in Armenia. The 150 kW array, which is installed on Lake Yerevan, will serve as a pilot for future floating PV plants in the country.
EWEC opens 1.5 GW solar tender in Abu Dhabi
Through the procurement exercise, the Emirates Water and Electricity Co. (EWEC ) is planning to build a giant solar farm in the Khazna area, where several data centers are operated.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Rystad forecasts 150 GW of new solar in 2023
Rystad Energy believes China could be on track for another record year in 2023, with expectations for more than 150 GW of new PV capacity. The Norwegian consultancy says the country could also potentially install 165 GW in 2024 and 170 GW in 2025.
