New study shows lower environmental impact with single-axis trackers
Brazilian researchers have compared the environmental impact of two PV plants – one with polycrystalline solar modules mounted on fixed-tilt trackers, and another with the same modules mounted on single-axis trackers. The life cycle assessment shows the system with single-axis trackers reduced carbon gas emissions by 24%, land use by 20%, and water use by 7%.
Sodium aluminum battery for renewables storage
US researchers have designed a molten salt that could potentially reach an energy density of up to 100 Wh/kg at a cost of $7.02/ kWh. The battery uses an aluminum cathode that charges quickly and reportedly enables longer-duration discharge.
European solar PPA prices rose by 11.4% in Q4
LevelTen Energy says the prices of solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) in Europe reached €76.84($82.58)/MWh in the fourth quarter of 2022.
SJVN announces 700 MW solar project in India
SJVN, a state-owned hydropower producer in India, has signed an agreement with the state government of Uttar Pradesh to set up a 700 MW solar plant in the Indian city of Kanpur.
Solar microgrid to support critical water infrastructure
A US water station will enhance its ability to deliver safe, clean water during extended grid outages.
Only5mins! – Australia’s key minerals will make it a green energy superpower
Tim Buckley, director of Climate Energy Finance, speaks to pv magazine about the crisis threatening Adani Group with collapse, the “positive outlook” for Australian renewables, and the nation’s potential to become a clean energy superpower.
Dutch startup unveils controller to store excess PV power in hot water
Solyx Energy has developed a device to maximize solar self-consumption in residential homes. The sensor measures how much solar power can be fed back into the grid at different times, while a controller redirects that excess energy into an electric water heater.
Modular solar tech gets nod for Australian off-grid lithium mine project
Australian modular solar manufacturer 5B’s rapidly deployable Maverick technology is set for installation at a 95 MW hybrid power plant in Western Australia featuring solar, wind, and battery energy storage.
Construction begins on 23 MW solar plant in Gambia
Gambia National Water and Electric Co. (Nawec) says the World Bank and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have agreed to finance a 23 MW solar plant in the African nation.
Growing US microgrid market hits 10 GW in 2022
Wood Mackenzie estimates that the US microgrid market has seen a 47% increase in solar and storage capacity in 2022 compared to 2017 levels, driven by rising demand for uninterrupted services, military resilience plans, and corporate environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) goals.
