Low residential solar feed-in tariffs can encourage battery deployment
Analysis of feed-in tariff scenarios in Central and Eastern Europe finds that while high feed-in tariffs are linked to the adoption of residential solar, lower tariffs are more likely to encourage battery installations. The study proposes a moderately low range of tariffs as one compromise to support both technologies.
UK unveils ‘smart ready’ heat pump regulations, new utility flexibility rules
Heat pump manufacturers will need to meet ‘smart ready’ standards under new appliance regulations, including stricter rules on cybersecurity. Utilities will be obligated to ensure battery energy storage systems, heat pumps and electric vehicle smart charge points can work across different tariffs under tariff data framework.
Viessmann launches new residential air-to-water heat pumps
The Germany manufacturer said its new heat pump systems use propane (R290) as the refrigerant and are able to provide a maximum flow temperature of 70 C. Their coefficient of performance ranges from 4.7 to 5.1.
How to combine photovoltaics with rainwater harvesting
Scientists have developed a system that harvests rainwater running off PV panels for household use or hydrogen production. Their analysis showed that, in the southern Sahel, the system can meet both the energy and water requirements for electrolysis, with surplus rainwater covering up to 50% of a household’s daily water demand.
US-based Complete Solaria rebrands as SunPower
Complete Solaria says it acquired SunPower’s assets for $45 million after its bankruptcy, then sold its shingled module patents to Maxeon, which is now owned by China’s TCL Group.
Austria launches €60 million rebate program for rooftop PV in 2025
Austria has opened applications for its €60 million ($68.3 million) rooftop PV rebate program for 2025, with a second-round “Made in Europe” bonus offering 20% more funding for projects using European-made components, says OeMAG.
Home batteries have same probability of catching fire as other appliances
New research from Germany shows that home batteries have much lower chances of being hit by fire than electric vehicles and most home appliances. The researchers warned, however, that fires in residential storage systems can be more dangerous than those of burning tumble dryers.
Net metering policies see significant revision in states across the U.S.
The recent 50 States of Solar report from NC Clean Energy Technology Center identifies three trends in state policy activities and the top five distributed solar actions in Q1 2025.
California proposes break to rooftop solar contracts, raising average bills $63
Over one million California homes that invested in rooftop solar may have their net metering contracts rescinded under the proposed bill AB 942.
Germany’s PV installations down sharply in March
Germany installed just 787.2 MW of new PV capacity in March – the lowest monthly total since December 2022.
