Nigeria to install new PV mini-grids as domestic off-grid sector surges
Developer PowerGen has installed a new mini-grid in the country and plans to develop nine more projects with the support of the World Bank.
CREO 2019: A roadmap for China’s energy system
As solar and wind power enter the post-subsidy era, the next few years will be critical for China’s energy transition with investors learning to navigate the uncertainties of market reforms. With the 14th five-year plan – touted as a watershed in China’s energy system development – in the works, a report has recommended clear targets for 2021-2025 in terms of solar and wind power deployment and a reduction of coal consumption.
Flood-related blackouts strengthen case for new REIPPPP round in South Africa
The nation has been plagued by extensive power outages again with debt-riddled utility Eskom blaming heavy summer floods for taking out extensive parts of its coal-fired power generation fleet.
Hydrogen production as an antidote to grid constraints in northern Netherlands
Dutch transmission system operator Enexis, gas provider Gasunie and oil company NAM are considering diverting excess solar capacity in Drenthe province into hydrogen production. The companies are assessing which wind and solar projects may have been excluded from the grid.
CPIA: China will add 40 GW of solar in 2020
The China Photovoltaic Industry Association secretary-general has revealed the world’s biggest solar market is unlikely to add more than 30 GW of solar generation capacity this year after just 17.5 GW was installed to the end of October.
Power Ledger, Japan’s Kepco extend blockchain energy collaboration
Japanese utility Kansai Electric Power has extended a demonstration project with Australian P2P energy pioneer Power Ledger to track renewable energy certificates and trade PV-generated electricity.
US senators call for Huawei ban in letter to energy regulator
Eleven U.S. Senators have signed a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission about the threat that Huawei’s equipment poses to the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Netherlands: Bid to exclude grid-congested areas from subsidy fails to stem solar tide
Some 7,525 renewables projects with a total generation capacity of 6,223 MW are under review by the Dutch Ministry of Economy in the second round of the SDE+ program for this year. Solar accounts for 74.7% of the submitted capacity.
African Development Bank to lend almost €49 million for 208 MW of solar in Burkina Faso
The lender is providing the funds to support the West African country’s solar ambitions under the bank’s Desert to Power program. Several other European organizations have vowed to back the €137 million Yeleen solar project, which will encompass four sites.
Scottish Power enters PV business
The distribution network operator for central and southern Scotland says it wants to maximize onshore renewables potential by adding solar and storage to its clean energy business. The company said hybrid projects combining wind, solar and storage will become the industry standard in 2021.
