Transparent superhydrophobic self-cleaning coating increases solar cell efficiency by 4.75%
Researchers have developed a PFAS-free dual-layer sol-gel and hydrophobic silica coating that repels water, dust, and dirt while maintaining high light transmission for solar panels. The transparent, self-cleaning coating improved photovoltaic efficiency from 13.90% to 14.56%, demonstrating strong durability and potential for future commercial applications.
NanoMalaysia unveils sodium-ion prototype surpassing 300 Wh/kg
The new prototype ranks among the most advanced sodium‑ion battery systems reported worldwide.
U.S. court upholds California’s current net billing mechanism, dealing blow to rooftop solar
California appellate court has affirmed the Public Utilities Commission decision to sharply cut compensation for homeowners and businesses that export rooftop solar electricity production to the grid.
Wales first part of UK to mandate solar panels on new buildings
Updated building regulations will effectively mandate solar for domestic and commercial buildings in Wales from early 2027. The new rules come ahead of England’s Future Homes Standard, which is also expected to effectively mandate rooftop solar for new builds.
VDE Americas upgrades hail risk model for utility-scale solar
VDE Americas has enhanced its Hail Risk Model with updated wind data to improve early warning and tracker stow strategies for utility-scale solar. CEO Brian Grenko explains how the models influence tracker design and storm response.
Hizenergy launches four-product C&I storage lineup with 300 kW PCS
Hizenergy has introduced a four-product commercial-and-industrial (C&I) energy storage lineup, including a 300 kW low-voltage PCS designed for direct connection to 400 V commercial distribution networks.
Volkswagen launches first large-scale battery storage project in Germany
Volkswagen has connected its first 20 MW/40 MWh stationary storage system in Salzgitter, Germany, marking the start of its plan to integrate battery production, storage, and energy trading within a single corporate structure.
Netherlands hits record electricity production and exports in 2025
The Netherlands set a record in 2025, generating 132 billion kWh of electricity, up 10% from 2024, with renewables supplying 49% of output and exports rising 25% to 30 billion kWh.
Gas-fired electricity two to three times costlier than renewable backups
A study by Forum Ökologisch‑Soziale Marktwirtschaft (FÖS), commissioned by Green Planet Energy, says electricity from gas plants could reach €0.67 ($0.78)/kWh, largely due to externalized costs, while renewable-based backups remain far cheaper.
Longi launches fire-resistant solar module for rooftop PV
The Chinese manufacturer has launched a fire-resistant version of its Hi-MO X10 module for distributed PV applications, featuring back-contact technology and up to 24.8% efficiency. The company says the module adds enhanced fire-safety design to address rooftop PV risks such as hot spots and DC arcing.
