Thirty-five countries now operate GW-scale annual PV markets
The latest report from the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) highlights that 2024 was another record year for solar installations but large overcapacities of solar cell, module and wafer manufacturing continued.
Improving solar inverter design with silicones
Inverters must withstand the high levels of heat generated when operating, otherwise system performance and reliability could be at risk. Cody Schoener of Dow Performance Silicones argues using silicone-based materials for inverters can improve thermal management and fire protection, while offering thermal stability, environmental resistance, electrical isolation and support for operational efficiency.
UK’s largest solar project approved, joins 2.1 GW cluster
Development consent granted for 1,400 hectare Tillbridge Solar Project. The 500 MW solar plant is the 17th energy project to secure final approval through the UK government’s nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP) pipeline since July 2024 and the fourth in the local area.
Cadmium telluride vs. crystalline silicon in agrivoltaics
Canadian researchers investigated how the transparency of cadmium telluride and crystalline silicon solar panels affects lettuce growth in agrivoltaic systems. They found that 69%–transparent silicon panels increased lettuce yield by 3.6%, whereas cadmium telluride panels led to a reduction in yield.
Novel swapping technique for partially shaded PV systems
Researchers in India have developed an algorithm for quadrant swapping in PV arrays, enabling the creation of new quadrants containing either shaded or unshaded modules. The method was tested across ten shading scenarios with varying irradiation levels and demonstrated “superior” performance compared to conventional approaches.
Novar establishes own grid connection for solar park in the Netherlands
The Avermieden grid connection, which allows Novar to act as its own distribution system operator, will soon connect the first phase of a solar project set to become the largest solar park in the Netherlands.
France to double grid tax on pre-2021 solar systems over 100 kW
France’s proposed 2026 budget would double the flat-rate grid tax for solar plants over 100 kW commissioned before 2021, drawing backlash from investors and PV industry groups.
Philippines approves world’s largest solar project for grid connection
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) of the Philippines has given the MTerra Solar Project permission to develop its own dedicated transmission facilities and connect to the Luzon grid. The first phase, encompassing 2.5 GW of solar and 3.3 MWh of battery storage, is due for completion in 2026.
Floating photovoltaics based on spiderweb design
Scientists in the United Kingdom have developed a new web-inspired concept for floating PV farms, modeled after spider webs. The system is said to be particularly suitable for spiral and radial configurations, as well as for deployment between offshore wind farms.
German railway areas have 37.6 GW of solar potential
Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) says PV systems within 2 km of Germany’s railway substations could generate more than four times the network’s annual power demand.
