Rethinking module geometry to expand rooftop solar capacity
Rethinking module geometry beyond the traditional rectangle could increase rooftop PV capacity on irregular buildings by improving packing efficiency and expanding placement options.
South Korea to invest $223 million in next-generation distributed grid
The South Korean government has announced plans to invest KRW 321 billion ($222.6 million) in 2026 to upgrade regional distribution networks, deploy 85 energy storage systems, and expand solar integration while piloting microgrids and market reforms.
Solar module prices rise faster than expected in February
Solar module prices increased by €0.01 ($ 0.012)/W to €0.015/W in February, lifting levels 15% to 18% above the December 2024 low despite falling wafer costs, as manufacturers seek to restore margins after prolonged losses.
Fox ESS releases hybrid inverters for commercial PV
The inverters offer up to 99.2% efficiency, 200% PV oversizing, dual battery inputs, IP65 protection, and support for installations up to 144 kWh of storage capacity.
High-temp sodium-zinc batteries reveal causes of rapid capacity loss
Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) researchers have used operando X-ray imaging to reveal why sodium-zinc molten-salt batteries, operating at around 600 C and promising for stationary energy storage due to low-cost, abundant materials, experience persistent capacity loss.
How airflow modifications in agrivoltaics affect crop yield, energy output
New research from France shows that PV panel height critically influences airflow and evapotranspiration in agrivoltaic systems, with panel heights of less than 3 m affecting crops through altered airflow. The scientists highlighted the need for site-specific measurements and computational fluid dynamics to accurately estimate water and energy exchanges beneath PV panels.
Taiwan’s solar feed-in tariffs remain unchanged
The Taiwanese authorities have also introduced a repowering mechanism designed to encourage replacement of aging PV equipment.
ESS Tech acquires VoltStorage GmbH to expand long-duration energy storage
US-based ESS Tech has acquired the assets and intellectual property of Germany’s VoltStorage GmbH to strengthen its long-duration energy storage (LDES) portfolio and combine two iron-based flow battery technologies.
The redefined role of steel in solar energy projects
As global solar investments continue to expand, the role of steel in solar infrastructure is evolving from a commodity-based input into a core element of integrated engineering solutions.
Morocco sets net‑metering tariffs for high, medium‑voltage systems
The Moroccan authorities have established new net‑metering tariffs for high, medium, and extra-high voltage systems from March 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027. The low-voltage tariff for residential PV will be set later, as the current regime mainly applies to industrial and commercial solar plants.
