Researchers find sodium-ion batteries using hard carbon anodes can intrinsically charge faster
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science showed that sodium-ion batteries with hard carbon anodes can charge faster than lithium-ion batteries by using a diluted electrode method that reveals sodium insertion is intrinsically quicker than lithium.
Canon testing solar at Japanese data center
Canon IT Solutions has begun testing a solar PV system to power its Tier 4 data center in Nishitokyo, aiming to boost renewable energy use and reduce costs. The system is expected to generate around 69 MWh annually and enhance power resilience during emergencies.
Belgium’s Virya Energy acquires BayWa re’s Japan solar business
Virya Energy will leverage BayWa re’s local team in Japan to strengthen its position in the country’s lucrative power purchase agreement (PPA) market. The Belgian company will also rely on its Asian affiliate, Constant Energy, headquartered in Thailand.
The Hydrogen Stream: Europe forecasts €240 billion for hydrogen grids to 2040
The European Commission says its new grids package includes €240 billion ($281.8 billion) for hydrogen networks to 2040, alongside fresh Italian State aid for clean tech deployment.
Perovskite solar testing field commissioned in Japan
Kanazawa University has begun long-term outdoor testing of tandem perovskite solar cells in collaboration with Toshiba. The research project aligns with Japan’s broader push to scale perovskite PV technologies toward large deployment by 2040.
Japan’s 26th solar auction concludes with average final price of $0.046/kWh
Japan has allocated 75.3 MW of PV capacity in its latest procurement exercise. The lowest price in the auction was JPY 4.97 ($0.032) /kWh.
Panasonic testing PV-driven hydrogen platform in Germany
The Japanese conglomerate has deployed its Panasonic HX hydrogen solution at its facility in Munich. The system uses an AI-based energy management system that reportedly makes battery storage unnecessary.
Japan launches call for road-surface solar technologies
Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has started accepting submissions for new road-surface PV technologies, with field verification planned in pedestrian areas at roadside stations to test performance and electricity use ahead of societal implementation.
Vertical PV system at Japanese parking lot operating under PPA
AirWater and Suichoku Solar K. K. have launched a 178 kW vertical PV system at a Tottori parking lot, operating under an on-site PPA. The Verpa-based system, a first for the San’in region, maximizes space, avoids snow damage, and reportedly delivers power equivalent to rooftop solar installations.
Panasonic glass-based perovskite solar panels tested in office windows
The Japanese electronics manufacturer is testing its glass-based perovskite solar PV technology in office windows made by YKK AP, a construction and building materials company.
