Solar module for lightweight applications from France
French manufacturer 2CA has developed a 20%-efficient solar module that weighs four times less than a glass-glass module of the same size. It claims the frameless, self-supporting panel could be used for lightweight applications at military camps and other remote locations.
Solar panels based on biosourced materials
French solar energy institute INES has developed new PV modules with thermoplastics and natural fibers sourced in Europe, such as flax and basalt. The scientists aim to reduce the environmental footprint and weight of solar panels, while improving recycling.
Vehicle integrated solar to power refrigerated trailers
German VIPV specialist Sono Motors has signed an agreement with French refrigerated vehicle supplier Chereau to develop refrigerated vehicles powered by an integrated solar array. The two companies will build and test a prototype vehicle, and begin to evaluate mass production. Sono estimates that the concept could save around 3,400 liters of fuel and avoid 9 tonnes of CO2 emissions per vehicle, per year.
New tool to increase social acceptance of solar parks
Thanks to a traceability tool, individuals, companies and local authorities who have signed an electricity supply contract with French energy provider Volterres can monitor in real time the source of their electricity supply, and in particular the share of electricity coming directly from renewable energy plants located nearby.
France deployed 484 MW of PV in Q1
France’s cumulative installed PV capacity reached 14.6 GW at the end of March.
The Hydrogen Stream: World’s first hydrogen-powered towboat
Shipbuilder Hermann Barthel has developed the world’s first push boat to combine battery-electric propulsion with hydrogen and fuel cell technology. Iberdrola and Fertiberia, meanwhile, have commissioned Europe’s largest green hydrogen production plant.
Ciel et Terre presents new solar floater models
Ciel et Terre has unveiled a new rough-water floater and another rigid platform that maximizes the number of solar panels per square meter.
Irish authorities approve subsea power link to France
Ireland has given the green light to install a 700 MW, high-voltage direct current submarine power cable between its southern coast and the northwestern coast of France.
France’s Groupe Casino to sell GreenYellow renewables unit
French energy giants TotalEnergies and Engie are reportedly interesting in acquiring GreenYellow.
Alliaverre to produce solar glass in France
Alliaverre wants to move a 600 MW solar glass plant to Amiens, France, to reduce European customer delivery times, as it faces rising shipping prices and manufacturing constraints in Asia.
