Civ Robotics unveils AI-powered navigation tool to automate solar construction processes
Civ Robotics’ artificial intelligence (AI) powered navigation system tool is currently being tested at several large solar parks in the United States. The company says it eliminates the need for manual surveying with a sensor device fitted on a construction machine to guide operators to precisely place piles, pallets and PV modules.
Bangladesh approves 220 MW solar project, its largest to date
Bangladesh has givern approval to a 220 MW plant in Sonagazi, partly funded by the Islamic Development Bank.
ABB finalizes acquisition of Gamesa Electric
The Swiss group acquired Gamesa Electric’s power electronics business in Spain from Siemens Gamesa. The financial terms of the deal were not revealed.
New ultra-reflective color steel promises big efficiency gains for bifacial rooftop PV
Dongkuk CM has introduced an ultra-high-reflectivity color steel sheet designed to boost the performance of bifacial rooftop PV systems, increasing solar reflectance to 80–85. The new material also offers enhanced corrosion resistance, long-term durability, and added cooling benefits thanks to its advanced plating and dual-layer design, according to the manufacturer.
U.S. extends solar manufacturing tariff exclusions
The U.S. Trade Representative has extended the exclusion of 178 items from the Section 301 import tariffs that were put in place by the prior administration in 2024. The still standing tariffs include a 50% increase on solar cells.
California lawmakers urge CPUC to enforce utility interconnection timelines
A coalition of 18 California legislators has formally urged the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to enforce regulations under “Rule 21” regarding the interconnection of customer-sited solar and energy storage systems.
Astronergy and JA Solar end global patent disputes with cross-licensing deal
Astronergy and JA Solar ended all global litigation and signed a cross-licensing agreement covering tunnel-oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) solar cell patents, resolving a major intellectual-property dispute affecting markets in Europe and beyond.
Spain awards 133 energy-storage projects totaling 2.4 GW and 10 GWh
Spain’s Institute for the Diversification and Saving of Energy confirmed €827 million ($961.4 million) in European Regional Development Fund co-financing for 133 energy-storage projects with a combined capacity of about 2.4 GW and 10 GWh.
Saudi Arabia secures financing for 15 GW of new solar and wind capacity
A consortium led by Acwa Power, Water and Electricity Holding Co. (Badeel) and Saudi Aramco Power Co. has secured a $5.9 billion senior debt facility for seven Saudi Arabia renewable energy projects totaling 15 GW across solar and wind.
Indonesia think tank seeks partner for offshore floating solar study
Indonesia’s Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) is seeking proposals by Dec. 3 for a preliminary feasibility study on offshore floating solar development in Sulawesi, including techno-economic assessments and regulatory analysis.
