AlphaESS launches all-in-one storage systems for C&I applications
Chinese energy storage manufacturer AlphaESS says its new Storion-H30-G3 and Storion-H50-G3 systems combine full integration, higher efficiency, and modular scalability to improve project safety and returns for commercial and industrial (C&I) users.
Japanese utility uses Sharp PV-linked home batteries for grid balancing
Japanese utility Tohoku Electric Power is using Sharp’s residential batteries and AI-powered energy management systems to balance grid demand and optimize household solar energy use. Customers in the program can earn points redeemable for local products.
Four-year testing finds heat pumps run efficiently even in older homes
Researchers at Fraunhofer ISE have tested various types of heat pumps in existing buildings across Germany over four years, finding that the systems achieved seasonal performance factors between 2.6 and 5.4. The team also showed that PV-driven heat pumps can boost self-consumption rates, particularly when paired with battery storage.
Florida utility on pace to reach 93 GW solar, 50 GW storage by 2045
While utilities in neighboring states are “dabbling” with solar, Florida Power & Light is combining solar and storage as a “workhorse” technology, said a nonprofit executive.
Sonnen launches trade-in program for old solar battery storage systems regardless of condition or manufacturer
The initiative by the Allgäu-based company targets owners of photovoltaic storage systems installed before the end of 2020. The value of the trade-in bonus depends on the capacity of the new Sonnen battery. Sonnen describes the campaign as a “targeted growth initiative in a new market segment.”
The impact of dust on PV systems in arid coastal environments
A Saudi–Egyptian research team investigated the effects of four types of dust on photovoltaic panels in arid coastal environments, finding that power losses can reach up to 48%.
World’s largest heat pump under development in Germany
The 162 MW project is being developed by German utility MVV Energie. The system will use water from the Rhine river as a heat source and is expected to generate heat with temperatures of up to 130 C.
Chile commissions PV-driven hydrogen plant
Chile’s Colbún has started operations at a solar-powered green hydrogen unit at its Nehuenco thermoelectric complex, replacing fossil-based hydrogen used in generator cooling.
Spanish grid operator authorizes renewables for dynamic voltage control
Spain’s grid operator has approved 24 renewable power plants to deliver dynamic voltage control services starting in January, granting them priority dispatch under a new operational program.
South Korea introduces standards for photovoltaic-thermal modules
The country’s National Institute of Technology and Standards said the new standards apply to modules that combine photovoltaic and solar thermal technologies in a single device, noting that separate standards for each technology already exist.
