Optimal sizing for solar water pumps
Researchers in Malaysia have proposed a new approach for optimal sizing of solar water pumps. Their method consists of using a single PV module, a charge controller, several batteries, and a DC load.
New PV installations to reach 158 GW next year, says IHS Markit
Market observer IHS Markit has shared its forecast installation figures for 2021, where they expect a ‘wild ride’ for the PV industry to install 158 GW of new generation capacity. This figure amounts to 34% growth on 2020 installations, driven by completion of delayed projects from this year, as well as a generally increased appetite for PV and renewables around the world.
15-year PPA for 18 MW solar park in Sweden
Built by solar developer Alight, the PV plant will provide 40% of restaurant and catering company Martin & Servera’s electricity demand.
Total to build 35 MW solar plant in Angola
The French company will work with Angolan developer Greentech. According to Total, the solar project is in line with Angola’s plan to encourage foreign investment and promote renewable energy sources, with the goal of reaching an installed capacity of 800 MW in the country by 2025.
Solar noise barriers require high self-consumption rates
Dutch contractor Heijmans has deployed a solar noise barrier to test three different PV module technologies, including cadmium telluride, CIGS, and crystalline products. Initial analysis has shown unexpectedly low returns, due to the rates at which the installation is selling power to the grid. But high levels of self-consumption could make such designs competitive with conventional noise barriers.
Indian Railways seeks proposals for solar+storage project
The Indian rail operator aims to set up a PV project in Dahod, Gujarat. It will be awarded via a competitive bidding process. Western Railways will serve as the off-taker for a period of 25 years.
French parliament approves retroactive FIT cuts for pre-2011, large scale PV
The representatives of the French solar industry have already mobilized against the controversial measure and said they are studying all possible legal actions.
Water harvesting tech for PV panel cleaning and cooling
An international research team has proposed to use nighttime radiative cooling to harvest water from PV panels and reuse it for module cleaning during the daytime. According to their findings, the proposed system has, also, a beneficial effect on the modules’ operating temperature.
Indonesia launches call for IPP solar projects
State-owned utility PT PLN (Persero) is seeking proposals from independent power producers to build large-scale solar plants.
Green hydrogen costs could plunge in India by 2030
A cost decline of more than 50% by the end of the decade could make green hydrogen cost-competitive with hydrogen from fossil fuels in certain industrial applications, such as ammonia production for fertilizers.
