PV-driven self-insulating composite exterior wall panel for building applications
Scientists in China have designed a solar self-insulated composite exterior wall panel, integrating a solar collector panel, PV panel, and insulation board. The proposed experimental setup has reportedly a static payback period of 1.1 years.
V-shaped PV system for agrivoltaic applications
An Italian startup supported by a group of scientists is developing a V-shaped agrivoltaic system that can reportedly find optimal application with bifacial modules and single-axis tracking. The proposed system configuration is claimed to reduce land use by 24 % compared to conventional setups.
Fortescue proposes 644 MW solar farm for Australian iron ore mine
Fortescue Metals Group has submitted a proposal to the Australian Environment Protection Authority for approval of its proposed 644 MW Turner River solar hub to power iron ore mining operations.
Copeland invests in thermo-acoustic heat pump developer
The U.S. heating specialist has agreed to invest an unspecified sum in Dutch startup Blueheart Energy, which is developing a 6 kW heat pump that works on acoustic waves and is able to produce both heat and cold air.
Turkish startup developing perovskite-organic tandem solar cell tech
Spacelis is developing lightweight, rollable space-grade perovskite-organic tandem solar PV technology targeting space and terrestrial portable energy applications.
Italy launches second agrivoltaics tender
Italy has launched a second agrivoltaics tender, allocating €323 million ($348.4 million) in unused funds from the first round, which awarded 1.5 GW of capacity in December 2024. Developers have until June 30 to submit bids.
Cornex unveils 472 Ah LFP cell enabling more than 7 MWh in a 20-foot container
The Chinese battery maker has launched its next-gen lithium iron phosphate cell which can be integrated with both 1,500 V and 2,000 V platforms. It plans to establish mass production by June 30 with an annual manufacturing capacity layout of more than 80 GWh.
German startup launches bidirectional charging kit for EVs
Energy Island Power, a German startup, has developed a connection kit that allows electric vehicle owners to use their car’s power to support home energy needs by integrating with the solar inverter and the home grid.
Six-year test field shows agrivoltaics can be critical for rice productivity
Scientists in Japan have conducted a field experiment in rice plantations hosting agrivoltaics systems and have found that rice growth can be affected by reduced biomass and reduced panicle number. However, their analysis has also shown that gross return in lowland rice agrivoltaics can be 14 times higher than rice growth without PV.
Using surplus solar power to pre-cool, pre-heat homes
Scientists in Australia have shown how pre-cooling and pre-heating could be implemented in Australian buildings with the support of excess solar power. Their analysis has demonstrated that summer has the highest potential for air conditioning demand reduction.
