US starts solar cell manufacturing to close supply chain gap
The “US Solar Market Insight Q4 2024” report, published by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie, states that domestic module manufacturing will be able to match the rapid pace of growth in the US solar industry, with cell production also ramping up.
Gujarat leads India with 46% of rooftop PV installations under subsidy scheme
The state of Gujarat leads India in residential rooftop solar adoption, accounting for 46% of the 616,019 systems installed nationwide under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana initiative as of Nov. 21, 2024.
European Commission opens second hydrogen auction
The European Commission’s second hydrogen auction allocates €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) for projects supporting renewable hydrogen production, with €200 million earmarked for projects with off-takers in the maritime sector. Bidding is open until Feb. 20, 2025.
ADB commissions 500 kW solar project with 2 MWh of storage in Tuvalu
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has commissioned a 500 kW solar rooftop project in Tuvalu’s capital, Funafuti, along with a 2 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS).
British Columbia offers funding for First Nations renewables
The Canadian province of British Columbia has allocated CAD 7.7 million ($5.5 million) to projects in seven communities, including a 3.8 MW solar farm, energy storage, and a pre-feasibility study on hydrogen production.
Australian regulator makes case for rooftop solar control mechanism
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) is pushing for the widespread implementation of “emergency backstop” measures to remotely switch off or dial down rooftop solar systems. It aims to manage the growing impact of distributed PV on the nation’s electricity grid.
Oman launches tender for 280 MW solar plant
Interested developers will have time until February 3 to submit their proposals.
‘When facing career challenges, it’s all too easy to feel isolated’
This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice Molly Morgan, Senior Research Analyst at UK-based CRU. She says that mentoring platforms offer aspiring professionals access to relatable role models, providing both inspiration and practical guidance to help them overcome their challenges and thrive in their careers. “A way to address the issue of women making up the minority share in the PV industry would be to encourage more women to enter the world of renewable energies earlier whilst still in academia,” she states.
Eskom tenders 72 MW of solar at coal power plant
Eskom is seeking a contractor to provide turnkey design, engineering, operation and maintenance services for a solar project at the Komati Power Station, South Africa.
Philippine distribution utility streamlines net-metering permits
The Philippnes’ Energy Regulatory Commission has permitted local utility More Power to create a one-stop shop for processing net-metering and distributed energy resources (DER) applications. The initiative is set to benefit consumers in Iloilo City, Central Negros and Tagbilaran, Bohol.
