KAUST explores polymer alternatives to glass for solar panel covers
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have published a review that looks at polycarbonate sheets as an alternative to solar cover glass. Their findings indicate that this new materials have a combination of low weight, mechanical strength, optical transparency, and thermal resistance that is worthy of further investigation.
Romania’s Hidroelectrica to install battery storage at its hydro power plants
The state-owned utility aims to enhance grid flexibility by installing energy storage systems at all of its run-of-river hydropower plants.
Avaada signs deal for 5 GW of solar, 5 GWh of BESS in India
Avaada Group will deploy 5 GW of solar, 1 GW of wind, and 5 GWh of battery energy storage system (BESS) capacity in western India to support grid stability and extend renewable power supply beyond daylight hours.
Transparent amorphous-silicon solar cell lets in more than 60% of visible light
Scientists in Spain have developed an amorphous-silicon solar cell that could be used in both transparent photovoltaics and tandem applications. The device reportedly achieves notable efficiency levels and may offer an alternative to transparent organic photovoltaics.
Engie sells Africa off-grid business to Ignite
UAE-based Ignite has bought Engie Energy Access, creating Africa’s largest off-grid solar and minigrid operator, serving 15 million people.
Europe’s solar gains offset by storms and floods in September
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that September was dominated by a persistent high-pressure system centered over Eastern Europe. This atmospheric blocking pattern suppressed cloud formation and created ideal conditions for solar irradiance across a broad swathe of the continent.
New tech can tell if your EV will make it home
Researchers in California have created a new diagnostic metric that can reportedly predict if a battery can successfully power a specific task. The proposed model could be used in electric vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, and grid storage applications.
Market eyes Indian buying surge ahead of anti-dumping duty on Chinese solar cells
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.
Spain’s grid operator warns of sudden voltage variations in the network
Red Eléctrica de España (REE) says sudden voltage variations in Spain’s grid are tied to renewable generation shifts, but there is no risk of blackout.
Australian photovoltaic thermal system piloted at Sydney landmark
Coolsheet has begun a commercial pilot of its Australian-made photovoltaic thermal (PVT) system at North Sydney Olympic Pool, converting standard solar panels into hybrid units that generate both electricity and heat.
