Water-based photovoltaics reach global capacity of 21.18 GW
An international research team has developed an index-based remote sensing method to see trends in the global development of water-based PV. It has found that China currently accounts for 80% of the global total deployed capacity.
Low residential solar feed-in tariffs can encourage battery deployment
Analysis of feed-in tariff scenarios in Central and Eastern Europe finds that while high feed-in tariffs are linked to the adoption of residential solar, lower tariffs are more likely to encourage battery installations. The study proposes a moderately low range of tariffs as one compromise to support both technologies.
Poland’s micro-solar growth slows slightly in 2024
Poland’s micro-scale solar sector grew to 1.5 million systems and 12.7 GW in 2024, with slower growth in both new installations and energy exports, according to the country’s energy regulator.
Poland’s $1 billion energy storage subsidy scheme opens for applications
The call for applications for the Electricity Storage and Related Infrastructure Programme, aimed at enhancing the stability of the Polish power grid, will remain open until May 30, 2025.
PV module recycling tech based on electrohydraulic shockwave fragmentation
An international research team has developed a new machine that utilizes shockwaves to separate the different materials of a PV module. Chemical processes can be further used to extract silicon and silver. Results show the recovery of more than 99.5% of the original weight of the panels.
Poland finalizes 5 GWh energy storage subsidy scheme
A total of PLN 4 billion ($1 billion) will be distributed under the subsidy scheme by the end of 2025 in a bid to bring online more than 5 GWh of energy storage projects by 2028.
Back-contact VIPV modules based on glass fiber-reinforced composite sheets
A university team in Poland has developed lightweight bifacial vehicle integrated PV (VIPV) mini-modules with back contact cells and glass fiber-reinforced composite sheets. Fabricated in a low-cost process, larger versions of the device are planned for use in a custom-built solar car for international competitions.
Poland reopens loan, subsidy program for rural solar installations
Poland has relaunched its Energy for Rural Areas program, offering loans covering up to 100% of solar installation costs in rural areas. The second funding round has a budget of PLN 1 billion ($242.6 million).
Poland deploys 4 GW of PV in 2024
Poland’s Institute for Renewable Energy says the country’s combined solar capacity nearly reached 20.7 GW by the end of November 2024, putting it on track to hit 21 GW by year-end. The institute’s analysis indicates utility-scale projects are driving Poland’s solar expansion and will continue to do so.
