Japan keeps lead in solid-state battery development
While China, South Korea, Europe, and the United States are also engaged in active development of all solid-state batteries, Japan is leading the charge, offering generous subsidies to technology proponents.
Japanese railway operator testing perovskite solar on noise barriers
Central Japan Railway Co. and Sekisui Chemical have revealed plans to deploy flexible perovskite-based PV systems along the Tokaido Shinkansen train line in Japan. They are using thin, lightweight, flexible film-type perovskite solar cells.
Sekisui Chemical launches pilot perovskite PV projects in Japan
Japanese plastics manufacturer Sekisui Chemical, which recently invested in a 100 MW perovskite solar production plant, announced its latest demonstration project at two sites owned by Japan’s MUFG Bank. The project aims to both raise awareness of practical applications of perovskite solar PV technology and to further verify durability, weather resistance, and performance.
The Hydrogen Stream: PV-hydrogen polygeneration system for humid climates
Researchers have proposed an atmospheric polygeneration system for hot, humid climates that generates water, cooling, and hydrogen, while Inpex has started preparations for a blue hydrogen production project in Niigata, Japan.
Sekisui Chemical invests in 100 MW perovskite solar production line
Japanese plastics manufacturer Sekisui Chemical is investing in a 100 MW production line to make lightweight perovskite solar panels for low load-bearing rooftops, with an operational start in 2027. It will also acquire a production facility from Japanese electronics manufacturer Sharp.
Japanese startup developing flexible chalcopyrite solar modules
PXP Corporation has recently secured JPY 1.5 billion ($9.98 million) in a round led by Japan’s Softbank Corp. to move forward with its plan to build a 25 MW chalcopyrite module factory.
Daikin launches air-to-water heat pumps for single-family homes
Daikin has released a line of residential heat pumps, using propane (R290) as the refrigerant, with outdoor unit dimensions of 1,122 mm x 1,330 mm x 600 mm. The new products have an output ranging from 6 kW to 14 kW and can reportedly deliver hot water up to 75 C.
Patents to add AI to power grids are surging, says IEA
New patents to integrate artificial intelligence into global grids have grown sixfold over the past few years, with China driving overall innovation momentum. The European Patent Office, co-authors of the report, called for Europe to renew its efforts.
Hitachi Energy unveils AI-based solar forecasting solution
Hitachi Energy’s Nostradamus AI solution enables users to make better decisions by generating accurate forecasts for solar and wind generation, market pricing, and load projections.
Shizen Energy, Smfl Mirai Partners buy 18.6 MW floating solar portfolio in Japan
Shizen Energy and Smfl Mirai Partners have jointly acquired energy company Mizuta Koichi from France’s Ciel & Terre, along with its portfolio of twelve floating solar assets located across Japan.
