Ramaphosa reveals 22,500 MW renewables pipeline in South Africa
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his first speech since forming a coalition government in May, said the nation is experiencing a “renewable energy revolution,” with upcoming projects expected to attract around ZAR 400 billion ($21.9 million) in private investment.
Fimer launches sale proceedings under extraordinary administration
Fimer has launched a process to sell itself to new owners. Interested investors have until Aug. 31 to submit offers.
Canadian government extends heat pump grant scheme
The provincial government of Prince Edward Island, Canada, has signed an agreement with the Canadian federal government to implement the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program. The scheme offers grants to low- and medium-income households to install heat pumps and has nationally delivered more than 7,000 units to date.
WTO accuses China of low transparency on state subsidies, including solar
The World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat has criticized China for an alleged lack of transparency in its state support framework and has urged the nation to improve its subsidy notification process.
Panama cancels renewables auction
Panama has canceled an auction it announced in February for 500 MW of renewable energy capacity. It would have been the country’s first renewable energy tender in a decade and the first in Central America to include battery storage systems.
France records 1 GW of new solar for Q2
Grid operator Enedis said last week that France installed 1,013 MW of new PV systems in the second quarter alone. If the current growth rate continues in the second half, the country could install record capacity in 2024.
India developers seek tax relief, supply support in new state budget
India’s Union Budget will be presented next week. Developers in the country hope for lower goods and services tax (GST) and import duties on solar components, as well as a delay in enforcing the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) until domestic supplies improve.
Australian polysilicon project shifts focus to silica feedstock
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners’ plan to build a “state-of-the-art” polysilicon manufacturing plant in Australia has taken a step forward, with Australian Silica Quartz starting a drilling program at a planned mine site that could provide feedstock for the proposed facility.
Romania aims to roll out 5 GW of energy storage by end 2026
Romania is aiming to have at least 2.5 GW of energy storage installed by the end of next year and to exeed 5 GW only a year later.
China to conduct comprehensive safety overhaul of battery storage facilities
China’s regulators are reportedly considering a comprehensive fire safety inspection and upgrades of operating energy storage facilities. For older storage stations, enhancing fire safety measures will significantly increase non-technical costs, potentially up to CNY 0.2 per Wh ($0.028/Wh).
