Hybrid PPA model improves PV-BESS bankability, say researchers
Researchers have modeled a hybrid financing scheme combining contracted and merchant components to improve the bankability of PV-battery energy storage system (PV-BESS) assets, using a Bayesian LSTM forecast integrated with a MILP optimization model to assess performance.
Masdar, EWEC break ground on 1 GW baseload solar-plus-storage project
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co. (Masdar) and Emirates Water and Electricity Co. (EWEC) have started building a solar-plus-storage project in Abu Dhabi that will deliver 1 GW of continuous baseload energy from a 5.2 GW solar plant paired with a 19 GWh battery system.
PV-driven desalination system for brackish water
Algerian researchers have built a single-stage solar and battery desalination system for brackish water that uses a hybrid spotted hyena optimizer and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm to improve efficiency. Simulations and real-time tests showed high performance, steady water output, and low salinity under changing solar conditions.
Machine learning-based fault detection technique for bifacial PV
A UAE research team developed a hybrid 1D-CNN and random forest model to detect multiple faults in bifacial PV systems, including dust, shading, aging, and cracks. Using simulated I-V curves and a 180-day synthetic dataset, the model achieved up to 100% accuracy in general state detection and 97.6% in specific fault classification.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Energy China secures 5 GW EPC deal in Saudi Arabia
Energy China has signed three EPC contracts worth $2.7 billion for 5 GW of wind and solar projects in Saudi Arabia with partners including PIF and Aramco Power.
Bahrain launches tender for 100 MW solar project
The BAJ Solar IPP projects is planned to have a capacity of 100 MW and to be located near Bilaj Al Jazayer, on the Southwest coast of Bahrain.
Cyprus to replace net metering with new self-consumption regime
Cyprus will replace its current net metering and billing schemes with a new, market-based self-consumption model from January 2026, as the island’s electricity sector opens to competition.
Engie, Masdar win 1.5 GW solar project in UAE
A consortium of France’s Engie and the UAE’s Masdar has been selected to develop the 1.5 GW Khazna solar PV project located near Abu Dhabi. The project is expected to reach financial close before the end of the year.
KAUST explores polymer alternatives to glass for solar panel covers
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have published a review that looks at polycarbonate sheets as an alternative to solar cover glass. Their findings indicate that this new materials have a combination of low weight, mechanical strength, optical transparency, and thermal resistance that is worthy of further investigation.
Kuwait shortlists five bidders for 500 MW solar project
The solar facility is planned for construction in the Jahra Governorate, with the selected developer to be awarded a 30-year power purchase agreement.
