Trane presents high-temperature water-to-water heat pump
The Irish heating specialist has launched a high-temperature heat pump delivering up to 110 C hot water and heating capacities of 100 kW to 370 kW for industrial and district heating applications. The system achieves a coefficient of temperature of up to 4.63.
Fraunhofer IEE calls for ‘grid-forming readiness’ in distribution networks
Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology IEE (Fraunhofer IEE) says in a new position paper that large-scale battery storage systems in medium-voltage grids should be technically prepared for future grid-forming operation, aiming to bridge the gap between current regulations and potential system stability requirements.
Standardizing smart energy requirements
A systems approach is essential for smart energy standardization, ensuring interoperability, avoiding overlaps, and addressing complex interactions across the grid, appliances, and infrastructures. The IEC System Committee for Smart Energy (SyC SE) applies system-level thinking, using tools like reference architectures and roadmaps to coordinate standards, support innovation, and tackle emerging areas such as EV integration, digital twins, and zero-emission technologies.
Phnix unveils indoor monobloc heat pump for space‑constrained urban retrofits
The Chinese manufacturer said its new airMono indoor monoblock heat pump is tailored for space‑limited urban retrofits, providing heating, cooling, and domestic hot water without an outdoor unit. The system’s coefficient of performance ranges from 2.5 to 4.1, while the seasonal coefficient of performance spans 4.5 to 4.7.
‘Garbage in, garbage out’ – solar industry debates reality of AI
Artificial intelligence can accelerate the planning, construction, and operation of photovoltaic systems, as shown at the recent Solar Quality Summit in Barcelona, Spain. But its effectiveness depends on data quality, as poor data, unclear responsibilities, and weak documentation can become major cost drivers.
Morocco sets net‑metering tariffs for high, medium‑voltage systems
The Moroccan authorities have established new net‑metering tariffs for high, medium, and extra-high voltage systems from March 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027. The low-voltage tariff for residential PV will be set later, as the current regime mainly applies to industrial and commercial solar plants.
Panasonic debuts fuel cell cogeneration system for PV‑integrated homes
Panasonic has launched a new home fuel cell system for detached houses, designed to boost solar self-consumption through HEMS‑based smart scheduling. The unit generates electricity and heat from gas, supports demand response, and can supply emergency power during outages.
German consortium launches web guide for BIPV planning
Germany’s SolarEnvelopeCenter project has launched a web-based planning guide for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), offering standardized design solutions for roofs and facades that comply with building codes and industry standards.
Samsung HVAC unveils inverter-driven residential heat pumps for cold climates
The US-based heating solutions provider said its Hylex inverter-driven heat pump offers 2–5 ton capacity, high efficiency, Wi-Fi control, and reliable cold-climate performance down to –25 C.
Agrivoltaics for regenerative agriculture
U.S. researchers are testing regenerative agrivoltaics at a farm in Southern California, combining solar panels with soil-restoring practices like composting, cover cropping, and no-till farming to enhance crop yields, soil health, and water-use efficiency. The pilot evaluates technical, ecological, and economic viability while exploring how this land-sharing approach can optimize food and energy production, reduce irrigation needs, and inform larger-scale deployment and policy frameworks.
