Author
Ralph Diermann
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Articles written by Ralph Diermann
Swiss power distributors allowed to remunerate solar power at market rates
Switzerland will allow grid operators to remunerate photovoltaic electricity at real-time market prices from 2027, aiming to better align solar feed-in with demand. Small PV systems will be protected by a minimum remuneration premium, while storage and local consumption are expected to become more important under the new model.
May 28, 2026
EVs equipped with vehicle-integrated PV could cover up to 80% of their electricity needs
A research project led by Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has demonstrated that vehicle-integrated photovoltaics (VIPV) can significantly reduce strain on power grids. The concept is particularly relevant for the logistics sector, where trucks require large amounts of electricity for cooling, heating and auxiliary systems, while also offering extensive roof space for PV integration.
May 20, 2026
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German utility deploying 30 MW heat pump for district heating
Enercity has begun constructing a 30 MW wastewater-based heat pump in Hanover as part of its shift away from coal-based district heating, replacing capacity from the Stöcken coal plant alongside biomass, power-to-heat, and waste-heat systems.
Ikea, Svea Solar launch dynamic electricity tariff in Germany
Ikea is expanding its energy offerings in Germany with a dynamic electricity tariff in partnership with Svea Solar, changing every 15 minutes based on day-ahead market prices and available even to customers without its PV systems, storage solutions, or heat pumps.
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Inverter protection system triggers permanent short circuit in under 1 millisecond
A German research team has developed a semiconductor-based protection concept tailored to renewable energy systems that forces a permanent short circuit in less than 1 millisecond in the event of a fault. The generated short circuit remains intact during the fault, reliably protecting the components from overcurrent.
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