Precise backside irradiance modeling for bifacial PV is often unnecessary
A European research group has developed a new “empirical” method for measuring the backside irradiance of bifacial PV system. The proposed approach was tested across several European locations and it was found to enable annual performance calculations with a fixed backside irradiance share value.
Using photoluminescence, implied open-circuit voltage imaging for perovskite solar cell field testing
To evaluate the outdoor performance and stability of perovskite solar cells using contactless and noninvasive methods, an Australian and Chinese research team found a way to use photoluminescence imaging as well as demonstrating a proof of concept for implied open-circuit voltage (iVOC) imaging. Their research relied on cost-effective equipment that operates under direct sunlight.
Saint Lucia plans 10 MW solar project
Electric utility company St Lucia Electricity Services is set to tender a 10 MW solar project with accompanying battery energy storage later this year.
Iberdrola plans 1.32 GW pumped-hydro storage project in Portugal
Iberdrola has started approval processes for a 1.32 GW pumped-hydro storage project in Portugal. The Proyecto de Aprovechamiento Hidroeléctrico de Minhéu is set to become the country’s largest facility of its kind once completed.
Saudi Arabia signs 5 solar PPAs totaling 12 GW
Saudi Arabia has inked five solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) with a developer consortia led by ACWA Power covering 12 GW of new capacity. Alongside two wind PPAs totaling 3 GW, the seven projects have been billed as the largest renewable energy capacity signed for in a single phase globally.
Poland allocates 1.67 GW of PV in renewables auctions
Figures from Poland’s Energy Regulatory Authority (URE) show that solar accounted for 178 of the 181 successful bids awarded under the country’s latest renewables auctions. Auctions covering hydroelectric power plants, agricultural biogas plants, and biomass went unresolved due to a lack of valid offers.
Australian utility aquires CSP-storage project from Photon Energy
AGL Energy has bought the 150 MW solar, 90 MW thermal, and 720 MWh storage Yadnarie Project from Dutch developer Photon Energy, following the award of development approval in June.
Solar becomes EU’s largest power source in June
Solar accounted for 22.1% of electricity generation in the European Union in June, as 13 member states set new records for the share of solar in their national power mixes.
Assessing PV cell, module reliability via Arrhenius equation
Researchers in Portugal have used the so-called Arrhenius aging model to measure the temperature behaviour and reliability of different solar modules. Their analysis showed that long-term module performance can diverge significantly depending on the manufacturing processes.
High-pressure systems boost global solar irradiance in early 2025
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that the first half of 2025 has delivered favourable solar conditions across several key solar generation regions around the globe, with many population centres experiencing above-average irradiance.
