Europe

Multi-year field trials conducted in Italy show that agrivoltaic systems can support healthy potato yields without major losses. Strategic shading and dynamic light management during critical growth stages proved key to maintaining productivity.

The UK government is proposing stronger cybersecurity rules for electricity and gas sectors, prompted by recent attacks on European energy infrastructure, including a recent incident involving solar power plants in Poland. The plans would extend baseline cybersecurity requirements to all licensed energy organizations and could also adjust compliance thresholds under NIS regulations.

Lithuania added approximately 600 MW of solar last year, taking total capacity to 3,040 MW. Technical permits have been issued for an additional 4 GW of solar but with grid congestion becoming a primary constraint, future deployments will be increasingly dependent on integration with storage technologies.

Due for completion in 2028, the DUB20 data center campus in County Wicklow will feature battery energy storage and solar PV installations capable of generating 6,000 MWh annually. It will be Ireland’s first Green Energy Park, delivered as part of its large energy users action plan (LEAP).

Researchers in Finland found that dishwashing liquid reduces solar module transmittance and performance, leaving residues even after rinsing. They recommend avoiding its use for cleaning solar panels.

GlobalData says hydrogen capacity could reach 82.3 million metric tons per annum (mtpa) by 2030, while Topsoe has ended supply agreements with First Ammonia.

An industry analysis argues that agrivoltaic systems using trackers or vertical designs can outperform conventional solar on both revenues and land use, challenging conclusions from a recent German study.

This week Women in Solar+ Europe gives voice to Irene Mihai, Policy Director at the Romanian Photovoltaic Industry Association (RPIA). She says her personal experiences show how mentorship, collaboration, and inclusive workplace practices are essential for attracting and retaining talent while empowering the next generation to contribute to a sustainable future.

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating an unnamed solar company after it breached conditions of a public tender for the co-financing of small solar plants. The office says house searches were carried out this week by Slovenian police, leading to the seizure of documents, electronic data and devices.

Low Carbon Hub plans to add battery energy storage system (BESS) to existing solar plant. The developer is offering shares in what’s thought to be the first community-owned co-located battery in the United Kingdom.