BNEF releases 2018 clean energy predictions
BNEF has released its top 10 clean energy predictions for 2018, including at least 107 GW of solar PV installs. China will lead, but Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East will notably up the ante. India will install less RE than in 2017, but will see fossils outpace RE for the last time; and China will see distributed grid connected solar leading the market. Li-ion prices are also declining, while EV sales grow.
Nearly 500 MW of large batteries installed on the US grid in three years (w/ chart)
The latest report from the U.S. Department of Energy finds an acceleration in the deployment of batteries, dominated by lithium-ion technology.
China the global leader in 2017 clean energy investment, at over $44 bn
China was the global leader in 2017 clean energy investment, says a new report. On the solar front, the country accounts for 60% of all cell production; and will continue to lead installation developments for at least the next five years. New 2020 targets are expected to be set. In the battery arena, Chinese companies are also set to dominate.
2017: The PV year in review
Trade cases, insolvencies, record-breaking low auction prices, China’s eye watering installation rates – all this and more characterized the 2017 solar PV industry. pv magazine reflects on the biggest stories, trends and developments of the past year; and summarizes what the industry can expect in 2018.
Utilities are increasingly planning for energy storage (w/ charts)
GTM Research reports that utilities in 15 states are incorporating energy storage into their long-term plans, as energy storage deployment reached a relatively even keel during Q3 2017.
All in: Utility PG&E signs energy storage deals totaling 165 MW
The most recent contracts, which still need to be approved by California regulators, are part of a state-mandated goal of adding 580 MW of storage by 2020.
Bali volcano threat prompts distribution of solar-powered TVs, kits
Non-profit organization, Kopernic is providing disaster relief in Bali with the distribution of solar-powered televisions and kits.
UK government backs national battery facility to tune of £80m
Partnership between Coventry City Council, University of Warwick’s WMG and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership to receive sizable investment from British government to build and maintain world-leading storage research and production facility.
Australian government to back blockchain PV, water project
The Australian government has agreed to provide AU$2.57 million (US$1.9 million) to support a two-year pilot project that will use blockchain technology to pair utility-scale and commercial rooftop PV with a battery, electric vehicle charging stations and water treatment systems in Western Australia.
Lesotho’s first utility-scale solar project moves forward
The government of the African country has issued an expression of interest in seeking consultancy companies for the environmental and social impact assessment of a 20 MW PV power project.
