Technology and R&D

Scientists in Sudan have called for the inclusion of PV module cleaning operations in green building standards to address a key maintenance gap in renewable energy systems. It would target improved system performance in environments where dust and soiling pose persistent challenges.

IPS has developed an 8.1 MWh utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) housed in a 20-foot container with an integrated 4 MW inverter. The Bulgarian manufacturer says it aims to meet growing demand for efficient, large-scale energy storage solutions.

Winaico has released a new glass-glass solar module series in Europe, offering a 460 W model and a full-black 450 W version built with monocrystalline n-type cells. The Taiwan-based company says the modules target high-efficiency performance and durability.

Polar Night Energy will build a second pilot plant in southern Finland to test its power-to-heat-to-power sand battery technology. The project aims to demonstrate the system’s ability to reconvert stored heat into electricity.

Netherlands-based Nowos is expanding its micro-mobility battery repair business to cover a wider range of batteries as demand for its service grow in France, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. It is now adding new repair hubs in Poland and Germany.

Turkey-based Seven says its new product can measure irradiance in a range of 0 W/m² to 4,000 W/m², with a resolution of 0.1 W/m². It can also measure humidity and temperature.

Integrating monocrystalline solar cells with metal standing seam roof panels, Roofit Solar sees opportunity in retrofit and new-build properties. pv magazine catches up with chief growth officer Greg Grace to discuss switching to TOPcon, adding color, energy security, and pitching rooftop solar to the Prince of Wales.

Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology IDMT has developed a solar module cleaning system that uses structure-borne sound and targeted mechanical vibrations to dislodge dust. Researchers will present the technology at Intersolar Europe in Munich from May 7 to 9.

Scientists in Spain have simulated a system that uses both power-to-heat-to-power thermal batteries and lithium-ion batteries for energy storage. The hybrid system reportedly achieved a 7% lower LCOE compared to a PV system relying solely on lithium batteries, while simultaneously increasing PV self-consumption by up to 20%.

The Japanese company said its new vertical mounting system is ideal for farmland, regions with heavy snowfall, along factory fences, and in parking areas.