Global utility-scale solar additions hit 182 GW in 2024
Utility-scale solar installations reached 182 GW (AC) in 2024, with the top 33 countries now accounting for 765 GW, or roughly 93% of the global total, according to Wiki-Solar.
Slovenia adds 298.8 MW of solar in 2024
Slovenia’s solar market slowed in 2024, but the residential segment maintained the largest share as it adjusted to the phase-out of net metering and a new electricity tariff system.
New test method for curved VIPV surfaces
IEA-PVPS has conceived a new test method and analysis of the impact of curvature in vehicle-integrated photovoltaics (VIPV) surfaces. Over the course of an 8-day summertime trial in south-eastern France, the researchers found that the curvature triggered irradiance and temperature non-uniformity of up to 261W/m² and 13 C, respectively.
German project for fast industrial implementation of sodium-ion battery technology
Cheap, safe, widely available sodium could be used for battery energy storage alongside photovoltaics. The Sodium-Ion-Battery Germany (SIB:DE) Research project is investigating whether sodium-ion technology can be affordably integrated into lithium-ion battery production facilities.
Cyprus introduces energy storage subsidy scheme
Cyprus’ Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry has launched a subsidy scheme for energy storage systems paired with existing renewable energy plants. Eligible projects will be remunerated by feed-in tariffs (FiTs) or net billing systems.
Canadian startup secures patent for solar module cooling tech
Enertopia has developed a solar module cooling system that uses a moisture collection layer to transfer heat while capturing water for irrigation in arid regions. The design channels heat from the panel to a liquid transfer system, improving efficiency and water use.
India’s solar module exports hit $782 million in April-November 2024
India exported $782 million worth of PV modules from April to November 2024, with $756.08 million shipped to the United States, says Indian Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik.
Study shows sensitivity of heterojunction solar cells to soldering flux
An international research team has assessed the impact of soldering flux on heterojunction solar cells and has found that the composition of this component is key to prevent major cracks and significant peeling.
New research suggests optimal tilt angle, overhead height for rooftop PV systems
Researchers in China have investigated the effect of the overhead height and tilt angle on thermal and energy-saving performance of photovoltaic roof and have found that the comprehensive energy-saving efficiency of parallel overhead photovoltaic roofs are optimal in summer and the worst in winter.
Solar thermal developer ticks off final technology milestone
Vast Renewables has successfully completed large-scale testing of a concentrated solar thermal power receiver tower destined to be deployed as part of a 30 MW / 288 MWh solar and energy storage project planned for South Australia.
