The potential for UK solar
Focusing on the big picture is always challenging, particularly in light of the current all-consuming coronavirus pandemic. However, there are some key issues related to the U.K. solar sector, which will feature significantly on the domestic agenda in the months ahead.
French alliance to build intelligent shade systems for agrivoltaics
French companies Ombrea and RES are partnering on the development of special PV shade systems for agrivoltaic projects. The devices will be equipped with artificial intelligence technologies to make them react to unfavorable weather conditions.
Switzerland allocates another $513m for solar incentives
The new funds will eliminate the waiting list for old feed-in tariff contracts. Around 22,400 new renewable energy systems have secured public support in Switzerland this year.
Oxford PV’s German module factory backed by Brandenburg state with €8.8m
Oxford PV is currently building a manufacturing facility for its silicon perovskite tandem solar cells in Brandenburg an der Havel.
Non-stop worldwide PV-powered yacht race
The ninth edition of the Vendée Globe began on Nov. 8 from the French port of Sables-d’Olonne, for a complete world tour without stopovers or assistance. PV panel maker Solbian equipped several competitors with its flexible products.
New AC module from Enphase, DMEGC
The new module series is available in five versions with power output ranging from 315 to 330 W and efficiencies of 18.67% to 19.56%. It incorporates Enphase IQ 7+ microinverters with a 96.5% European efficiency and 295 volt-amperes (VA).
Hydrogen captured as a byproduct of polysilicon production
A Norwegian chemical company has received funding from a state-owned innovation hub to develop technology which enables the capture of hydrogen as a byproduct of the company’s silicon production.
Solar-powered atmospheric water generator
Spain’s GFM says its new system can produce 500 liters of water per day. It claims it is a low-cost way to improve access to electricity and drinking water in remote areas.
SMA swings to profit in first three quarters of 2020
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the photovoltaic inverter maker was able to significantly increase its turnover and sales compared to the previous year.
Plans for 50,000 hydrogen-powered taxis in Paris
European electric transmission company body ENTSO-E has unveiled details of a project to install 11 GWh of electrolyzed hydrogen storage capacity across ten locations around the French capital by the end of the decade.
