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Sustainability

PV modules with longer lifetimes could slash demand for materials, says NREL

The US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) says in a new report that PV module lifetime extensions should be prioritized over closed-loop recycling to reduce demand for new materials.

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Recycling key to solar sustainability

A new study of the environmental impacts of renewable energy finds significant opportunities for solar to reduce its impacts in various categories, including human health, resource depletion, and environmental damage. The study notes in particular that more work is needed to establish a comprehensive reuse and recycling network for end-of-life PV products.

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New process to recycle Si-PV modules

A team of researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) has proposed a novel cost-effective way to recycle silicon solar panels. Their process consists of module deframing, laminate shredding and material concentration using electrostatic separation, reducing their original weight by 2% to 3%.

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It’s time to bin the false agriculture vs solar debate

With the last incumbent to enter and leave the revolving door of UK prime ministers having caused alarm by reportedly preparing plans to effectively ban big solar on farmland, Harald Överholm, CEO of clean energy company Alight, says politicians need to put discredited arguments behind them and get on with the urgent business of shoring up energy security.

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Polypropylene absorber to simplify brine heat pumps’ adoption

German company Mefa Befestigungs- und Montagetechnik has developed absorbers made of polypropylene that are intended to simplify the use of brine heat pumps. The novel technology should make it possible to combine multiple heat sources, including water, earth, air and also ice storage all within a single system.

African utility secures cash for floating solar studies

Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) will obtain $2.5 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to fund studies into floating solar and battery systems.

African PAYG solar companies have hogged 72% of sector’s investment

The first post-pandemic update on the state of the world’s off-grid solar industry has painted a picture of domination by European companies, but highlighted the potential for new startups in West Africa and an increasing use of PV as a backup to unreliable grid supplies.

Ontario confirms 1.5 GW-plus tender for battery storage

The Canadian province of Ontario will include a big slice of energy storage capacity as it plans its near-term grid requirements.

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Dutch competition regulator asks Vattenfall, Greenchoice to clarify sustainability claims

Vattenfall and Greenchoice have agreed to adjust sustainability claims on their websites in response to a request from the Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets. The companies reportedly used vague comparisons to support their claims.

Equity investment to back 150 MW of commercial solar in Africa

Norwegian developer Empower New Energy has secured $74 million of mostly public funds from investors and will top it up to build a $100 million, three-year cash pile.

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