Cyprus introduces energy storage subsidy scheme
Cyprus’ Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry has launched a subsidy scheme for energy storage systems paired with existing renewable energy plants. Eligible projects will be remunerated by feed-in tariffs (FiTs) or net billing systems.
New research suggests optimal tilt angle, overhead height for rooftop PV systems
Researchers in China have investigated the effect of the overhead height and tilt angle on thermal and energy-saving performance of photovoltaic roof and have found that the comprehensive energy-saving efficiency of parallel overhead photovoltaic roofs are optimal in summer and the worst in winter.
US startup developing defrost-free residential heat pump for cold climates
TerraVis Energy claims its new heat pump system can achieve a seasonal coefficient performance of 3.5 and deliver 30 C of heat indoors at -50 C. CEO Lorenzo Rossi told pv magazine that the system could be produced at a lower cost than conventional models.
France exempts energy communities up to 1 MW from excise duty
France’s 2025 Budget Law exempts energy communities with projects up to 1 MW from excise duty on electricity consumption. The measure applies retroactively from Jan. 1, 2025, and remains in effect until Jan. 1, 2027.
Panasonic launches decentralized water-to-air heat pumps
The Aquarea Loop heat pump system is intended for applications in residential and commercial buildings. It features a coefficient of performance of up to 5.9 and heating capacities ranging from 1.10 kW to 3.10 kW.
Colombia deploys 1.6 GW of solar in 2024
Colombia installed 1.6 GW of solar in 2024, bringing its total capacity to 1.87 GW by year-end. Industry group Ser Colombia says 33 utility-scale projects accounting for 1,410 MW were added to the grid.
Photovoltaic windows can reduce energy consumption in greenhouses by 57%
Developed by a research team including experts from Australian specialist Clearvue, the new PV windows were also able to reduce water usage in a greenhouse by 29%. The group believes that a fully glazed solar greenhouse could offset up to 100% of the energy consumption in worldwide locations by using adaptable and efficient temperature control techniques.
Mitrex launches solar PV railing systems
The Canadian building-integrated PV manufacturer has launched semi-transparent and opaque solar PV railing systems for balconies or walkways, for retrofit or new buildings. The products are delivered with support bars, concealed cabling and a choice of mounting systems.
Cyprus installs 159 MW of new PV in 2024
Cyprus installed 159 MW of new solar capacity in 2024, bringing its total to 797 MW by year-end, according to the latest data from the Cypriot transmission grid operator.
France reduces VAT to 5.5% for solar up to 9 kW
The French Senate has approved France’s 2025 Budget Law, cutting the value-added tax (VAT) to 5.5% for PV systems up to 9 kW from October 2025. Industry professionals say the delay might prompt homeowners to postpone installations to secure the lower rate.
