Aermec debuts modular heat pump for residential, commercial buildings
The Italian manufacturer said its new WWMG heat pump system has a coefficient of performance of up to 4.98 and an energy efficiency rating of 16.30 BTU/Wh.
Spanish start-up Bihar Batteries to commercialize sodium-ion batteries in 2026
The company has produced its first sodium-ion battery prototype and, in collaboration with Spanish research institute CIC energiGUNE, developed sodium-ion cell prototypes that have shown “very promising results.”
How to reduce PV module temperature with frame perforations
Scientists in China have investigated how frame perforations can help reduce the operational temperatures of solar modules through air cooling. Their findings show that the number of perforations must be carefully calibrated, and that more is not necessarily better.
Alfa Laval launches once-through steam generator for thermal storage
The Swedish company stated that its new product was designed for use in compact, molten salt energy storage applications, eventually in combination with PV power. In its standard configuration, it can reportedly withstand temperatures up to 400 C and pressures up to 60 bar.
Japan’s NGK discontinues manufacturing of sodium-sulfur batteries
The manufacturer cites rising material costs, heightened competition from lithium-ion batteries, and the slow uptake of long-duration storage technologies as the reasons for the decision.
Field trial shows third-party control of residential heat pumps can provide grid flexibility
UK researchers find that smart, centrally controlled air-source heat pumps could slash peak electricity demand. The technology not only keeps homes comfortable but also boosts grid flexibility and cuts emissions.
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.
