Netherlands grid constraints becoming serious threat to solar
Three energy associations, including Holland Solar, have asked the Dutch parliament to take action amid worsening grid connection problems for renewable energy projects in the Netherlands. According to the energy groups, around 700 MW of solar and wind projects allocated under the SDE+ incentive program could lose their payments if they miss connection deadlines.
New methodology for assessing value of PV in uncertain markets
A new process is described as a tool to assess the value of deferring, relocating or abandoning PV projects under development in uncertain market conditions. Researchers say the model may help investors reconsider projects which could be prematurely rejected based on traditional analytical approaches.
Webinar Q&A: Performance modelling for accurate energy output and yield prediction of bifacial PV systems
In our recent webinar, held in partnership with JinkoSolar, on the impact of bifacial modules and modelling their yield under varying environmental conditions and system setups, JinkoSolar’s Andrea Viaro discussed innovations in bifacial module design, and implementing these into a system to positively impact the return on investment. Teun Burgers, a Senior Researcher at ECN.TNO also delved into the simulation of bifacial PV systems, and treated us to a closer look at ECN’s BIGEYE simulation model. Here, the two presenters answer some more of the questions posed by the audience during the webinar.
Solar the only winner in German renewables tender
Some 37 solar projects with a combined generation capacity of 202 MW were assigned in a procurement round which was oversubscribed despite a lack of onshore wind bids.
Ikea puts aside €200m for carbon-positive vision
The furniture brand has touted its plan for a sustainable future before. Now, ahead of the COP25 climate change conference, Ikea says it will spend €200 million improving raw material sourcing and realizing 100% clean energy supply for its production operations.
Iraq plans second 750 MW solar tender
Raad Al Haris, an energy advisor to the prime minister, announced the idea at the Energy Transition in the Arab World conference held in Berlin this week. Al Haris also revealed the Iraqi government has pre-qualified 45 bidders for the first tender.
Iberdrola switches on 3 MWh battery in Spain
The project was realized by the i-DE distribution company of the Spanish electric utility. The large scale storage battery is intended to improve the quality of electricity supply with a focus on solar projects located nearby.
Saudi Arabia’s 300 MW Sakaka solar plant comes online
The PV facility was completed a month and a half ahead of schedule by Saudi energy company ACWA Power. The project will sell power at $0.0236/kWh.
Aleo Solar to launch 333 W module in January
German headquartered PV manufacturer Aleo Solar has announced plans to introduce the module in the new year. Like many of its rivals, the company is moving to a larger cell size for the new product, which it says will offer up to 333 W output from a 60-cell format.
Tender for 50 MW of floating solar launched in Portugal
The Alqueva Dam on the Guadiana River, in southern Portugal, will host ten floating PV projects mostly financed by a €45 million Council of Europe Development Bank loan.
