Utility Scale PV

Australian researchers developed a high-resolution energy modeling framework to assess how PV and batteries can supply 24/7 electricity to heavy industries, considering cost, grid interaction, and load flexibility. They found that, while technology cost reductions help, smart grid integration and flexible industrial operations are far more effective in lowering electricity costs and enabling 100% renewable energy use.

Civ Robotics’ artificial intelligence (AI) powered navigation system tool is currently being tested at several large solar parks in the United States. The company says it eliminates the need for manual surveying with a sensor device fitted on a construction machine to guide operators to precisely place piles, pallets and PV modules.

Bangladesh has givern approval to a 220 MW plant in Sonagazi, partly funded by the Islamic Development Bank.

The Swiss group acquired Gamesa Electric’s power electronics business in Spain from Siemens Gamesa. The financial terms of the deal were not revealed.

A coalition of 18 California legislators has formally urged the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to enforce regulations under “Rule 21” regarding the interconnection of customer-sited solar and energy storage systems.

A consortium led by Acwa Power, Water and Electricity Holding Co. (Badeel) and Saudi Aramco Power Co. has secured a $5.9 billion senior debt facility for seven Saudi Arabia renewable energy projects totaling 15 GW across solar and wind.

Indonesia’s Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) is seeking proposals by Dec. 3 for a preliminary feasibility study on offshore floating solar development in Sulawesi, including techno-economic assessments and regulatory analysis.

The Dominican Republic has switched on the 162.6 MW Cotoperí Solar complex, developed by Acciona Energía and local investors. It is the largest PV installation in Central America and the Caribbean.

NTPC has developed a standalone solar microgrid system that uses hydrogen as the storage medium to deliver 200 kW of round-the-clock power throughout the year. Designed to replace diesel gensets at off-grid Army locations, the system provides a reliable and sustainable power supply even in harsh winter conditions, where temperatures can drop to –40 C at an altitude of 4,500 meters.

South Korean solar inverter makers have jointly launched a new association of inverter manufacturers to coordinate domestic production, safeguard local expertise, and address import-driven market issues and grid stability challenges.