Netherlands to slash VAT for residential PV to 0%
The new measure should come into force on January 1. It is part of the Tax Plan 2023 package and still needs final parliamentary approval.
Vehicle-integrated solar kit may reduce frequency of recharging by 14%
Developed by the French research institute Liten, the prototype kit consists of a 145 W photovoltaic panel, a magnetic rear panel, and an MPPT charge controller. It also includes a battery and a micro-inverter that can be used to inject the stored energy into the grid when the vehicle is recharged.
Greece approves large scale solar-battery-hydrogen project
An Inter-ministerial committee of the Greek government last week labeled a photovoltaic project, combining lithium batteries and an electrolyzer, a strategic investment meaning it can take advantage of fast licensing processes.
Floating solar for water pumping
A community in Spain is using a 1.6 MW floating PV array to power water pumps for irrigation purposes. Spanish specialist Isigenere provided its technology for the project.
Hydrogen to play limited role in building energy supply
How much hydrogen is actually needed? Several German research institutes have examined 40 energy scenarios for hydrogen ramp-up and found that 15 million GWh of hydrogen will be needed worldwide by 2050.
The Hydrogen Stream: Canadian startup unveils 120 kW fuel cell system
In other news, Alstom tested its hydrogen train for long-distance transportation and the IEA released a report suggesting that hydrogen development may require an annual investment of around $60-130 billion through 2030.
Q Energy France unveils pilot PV system for hydroponics
The prototype system covers an area of 250 m² and is equipped with a rainwater recovery system. Q Energy France and its partner Aquacosy are now looking for land for a larger project.
Pumped hydro storage for rivers, coastal lines
Scientists in Germany have developed a new methodology to identify suitable areas for pumped hydro storage projects close to rivers or shorelines. Their new method considers parameters such as the minimum required flat area for the reservoir, the allowable slope of the terrain, the minimum head, and minimum required head to distance ratio between two reservoirs.
Cadmium-free kesterite solar cell with 9.7% efficiency
Researchers in China developed a new kesterite solar cell they say has improved efficiency and stability. The device was able to retain around 90% of its initial efficiency after 100 days without encapsulation.
Switzerland launches tender to assign free-of-charge areas for PV along highways
The Swiss Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) started yesterday the selection process to assign these areas free of charge to solar developers. Interested developers will have time until February 24 to express their interest in these surfaces.
