Energy

Researchers in Slovakia have demonstrated a machine-learning framework that predicts PV inverter output and detects anomalies using only electrical and temporal data, achieving 100% accuracy in classifying inverter output states under static operating conditions at a solar installation.

This week, Women in Solar+ Europe features Sonia de Sales, Director of Development at Spain’s Altano Energy. She emphasizes that implementing an equal-opportunities plan is key to ensuring open and fair recruitment, including balanced shortlists and actively sourcing female candidates when they are underrepresented, while hiring on merit and making it clearly visible

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science showed that sodium-ion batteries with hard carbon anodes can charge faster than lithium-ion batteries by using a diluted electrode method that reveals sodium insertion is intrinsically quicker than lithium.

In its latest monthly column for pv magazine, the International Solar Energy Society (ISES) explains how Australia’s rapid expansion of solar and wind energy has not increased wholesale electricity prices, which have remained stable since 2016. Rooftop solar, now widespread and highly cost-effective, provides the country with resilient, low-emission power, making all-electric homes increasingly independent from the grid.

The Australian firm has introduced single-phase 5 kW and 6 kW AC output storage systems, as well as three-phase 10 kW and 12 kW models. Storage capacities of the new products range from 5 kWh to 40 kWh.

A study analyzing urban bifacial PV systems in high-latitude areas found they can generate 9–13% more electricity than monofacial panels under snow conditions, particularly in winter, while also achieving a lower levelized cost of electricity. The research developed a techno-economic optimization model considering snow effects, panel orientation, interrow spacing, and operation modes, highlighting sensitivity to market conditions and discount rates.

The Italian manufacturer said its new Fullness heat pump system has a coefficient of performance of 2.8 and a seasonal energy efficiency ratio of 3.79.

Canon IT Solutions has begun testing a solar PV system to power its Tier 4 data center in Nishitokyo, aiming to boost renewable energy use and reduce costs. The system is expected to generate around 69 MWh annually and enhance power resilience during emergencies.

Two complaints to the European Commission allege Greek repowering policies and high performance bonds for battery storage projects block upgrades, raise costs, and hinder energy transition, according to industry association Pospief.

Welsh battery breakthrough uses UK-manufactured anode and cathode materials as well as active materials available through local supply chains. Batri plans to scale up material manufacturing and cell building capability.