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Received today — 1 February 2026

Die Opportunitätskosten des deutschen Wasserstoff-Backbones*

31 January 2026 at 16:33

Deutschland hat inzwischen rund 400 Kilometer Wasserstoff-Backbone-Pipeline fertiggestellt und unter Druck gesetzt, ohne angeschlossene Lieferanten und ohne vertraglich gebundene Abnehmer — eine Pipeline von nirgendwo nach nirgendwo. Die Infrastruktur existiert und ist betriebsbereit, aber es fließt kein Wasserstoff zu irgendjemandem, der sich verpflichtet hat, dafür zu bezahlen. Dies ist kein ... [continued]

The post Die Opportunitätskosten des deutschen Wasserstoff-Backbones* appeared first on CleanTechnica.

Received yesterday — 31 January 2026

Uttar Pradesh Strengthens Clean Energy Diplomacy with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture – EQ

In Short : Uttar Pradesh is exploring strategic cooperation with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture to advance its green energy ambitions. The partnership focuses on renewable technologies, hydrogen development, energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure. This collaboration aims to promote technology transfer, investment, and innovation, supporting Uttar Pradesh’s transition toward a low-carbon economy and long-term energy security.

In Detail : Uttar Pradesh is taking a significant step toward strengthening its clean energy ecosystem by exploring green energy collaboration with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture. This initiative reflects the state’s growing focus on international partnerships to accelerate renewable energy deployment and adopt advanced technologies for sustainable development. The engagement highlights Uttar Pradesh’s ambition to position itself as a key player in India’s energy transition.

Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture is internationally recognized for its leadership in renewable energy research, particularly in hydrogen technologies, solar power, and smart energy systems. By engaging with Yamanashi, Uttar Pradesh aims to benefit from Japan’s technological expertise, innovation models, and policy frameworks that support low-carbon growth and energy efficiency.

A central area of cooperation is expected to be hydrogen energy, which is increasingly viewed as a critical component of future clean energy systems. Yamanashi has been actively developing hydrogen-based infrastructure and mobility solutions, and this experience could help Uttar Pradesh explore hydrogen production, storage, and utilization across industrial, transport, and power sectors.

Solar energy also forms a key pillar of the proposed collaboration. Uttar Pradesh, with its large land availability and high electricity demand, offers strong potential for utility-scale solar projects. Through knowledge exchange with Yamanashi, the state can adopt advanced solar technologies, improve grid integration, and enhance the efficiency of photovoltaic systems.

Energy efficiency and smart grid technologies are additional areas of mutual interest. Japan’s expertise in digital energy management, smart metering, and demand-side optimization can support Uttar Pradesh in modernizing its power infrastructure. These technologies can help reduce transmission losses, improve reliability, and enable better integration of renewable energy sources.

The partnership is also expected to encourage investment and industrial collaboration. Japanese companies may explore opportunities to invest in renewable energy projects, battery manufacturing, green hydrogen facilities, and electric mobility infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh. Such investments can strengthen the state’s clean energy supply chain and generate high-quality employment.

From a policy perspective, the collaboration promotes international knowledge sharing and best practices in energy governance. Exposure to Japan’s regulatory frameworks, financing models, and public-private partnerships can help Uttar Pradesh design more effective policies for renewable energy adoption and sustainable infrastructure development.

The engagement with Yamanashi also aligns with India’s broader national objectives of achieving energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and meeting climate commitments. Sub-national partnerships like this play a crucial role in translating national targets into actionable regional strategies supported by global expertise.

Overall, Uttar Pradesh’s exploration of green energy ties with Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture represents a forward-looking approach to clean energy development. By combining international technology, investment, and policy learning, the state is strengthening its pathway toward a resilient, low-carbon, and innovation-driven energy future.

Manufacturing for Scale, Reliability, and the Next Phase of India’s Solar Growth

31 January 2026 at 08:37

Solar power in India has moved decisively from the margins to the mainstream of the country’s energy planning. With capacity targets rising and decarbonisation timelines tightening, the discussion is no […]

The post Manufacturing for Scale, Reliability, and the Next Phase of India’s Solar Growth appeared first on SolarQuarter.

MiddleEast Weekly Updates: Khazna 1.5GW Solar Project Begins; Dentons Backs Oman Solar + Storage and More…

31 January 2026 at 07:46

Construction has commenced on significant renewable energy projects across the Middle East, including the 1.5 GW Khazna Solar Project in the UAE, Oman’s first solar and storage initiative, and various expansions in Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. These efforts aim to enhance energy security, support climate goals, and foster regional partnerships in clean energy.

The post MiddleEast Weekly Updates: Khazna 1.5GW Solar Project Begins; Dentons Backs Oman Solar + Storage and More… appeared first on SolarQuarter.

Pekat Group Secures 21-Year PPA For 25 MW Solar And 40 MWh Battery Project In Kuantan

31 January 2026 at 07:04

Pekat Group Bhd, through its subsidiary Pentas RE Sdn Bhd, has signed a 21-year Power Purchase Agreement for a solar and battery storage project in Kuantan, Pahang. The 25MWac solar facility combined with a 40MWh battery highlights Pekat's commitment to renewable energy, offering economic and environmental benefits while supporting Malaysia's energy transition.

The post Pekat Group Secures 21-Year PPA For 25 MW Solar And 40 MWh Battery Project In Kuantan appeared first on SolarQuarter.

Africa’s Solar Surge: Balancing Growth, Access, And Environmental Challenges

31 January 2026 at 06:44
rows of solar modules in photovoltaic power station

Africa is witnessing a significant rise in solar energy adoption, offering hope for a continent long challenged by limited access to electricity. Recent data from the Kigali-based Africa Solar Industry […]

The post Africa’s Solar Surge: Balancing Growth, Access, And Environmental Challenges appeared first on SolarQuarter.

CrossBoundary Access and ANKA Acquire Four Operational Mini-Grids in Madagascar

31 January 2026 at 06:29

CrossBoundary Access, Africa’s first blended finance platform for mini-grids, and ANKA, a leading mini-grid developer, have completed the acquisition of an asset company owning four operational mini-grid projects in Madagascar. […]

The post CrossBoundary Access and ANKA Acquire Four Operational Mini-Grids in Madagascar appeared first on SolarQuarter.

Zambia Partners With UAE For 300 MW Solar Project To Boost Energy Security And Economic Growth

31 January 2026 at 06:23

The government of Zambia has taken a significant step toward strengthening its energy sector by partnering with the United Arab Emirates to develop a large-scale solar power project. A high-level […]

The post Zambia Partners With UAE For 300 MW Solar Project To Boost Energy Security And Economic Growth appeared first on SolarQuarter.

ReNew Prepares $500 Million Bond Issue to Accelerate Global Clean Energy Expansion – EQ

In Short : ReNew is planning a $500 million bond issuance to strengthen its financial position and support the expansion of its renewable energy portfolio. The proposed fundraising reflects strong investor confidence in clean energy assets and highlights the growing role of global capital markets in financing large-scale renewable projects and sustainability-driven infrastructure.

In Detail : ReNew is lining up a $500 million bond issue as part of its broader strategy to raise long-term capital for renewable energy expansion. The move signals the company’s intent to tap international debt markets to support its growth plans and strengthen its balance sheet amid rising investments in clean power and sustainable infrastructure.

The proposed bond issuance is expected to help ReNew refinance existing debt, lower financing costs, and improve overall liquidity. By accessing global capital markets, the company can secure competitive funding terms while maintaining financial flexibility to pursue new projects across solar, wind, and hybrid energy segments.

Bond issuances have become an increasingly popular financing tool for renewable energy companies, as they provide access to large pools of institutional capital. Investors are showing growing appetite for green and sustainability-linked instruments, driven by environmental, social, and governance considerations as well as the long-term stability of clean energy assets.

For ReNew, the fundraising initiative aligns with its long-term objective of scaling up its renewable capacity and strengthening its position as a leading clean energy player. The company continues to expand its operational portfolio, develop new projects, and invest in advanced technologies such as energy storage and digital grid solutions.

The $500 million bond issue also reflects broader trends in the global energy sector, where capital is increasingly being redirected from fossil fuel-based assets toward renewable and low-carbon infrastructure. This shift is supported by favorable policy frameworks, climate commitments, and rising corporate demand for green electricity.

From a financial perspective, bond funding allows companies like ReNew to diversify their capital structure and reduce reliance on traditional bank loans. Long-tenure bonds are particularly suitable for infrastructure projects, as they align well with the long operational life and predictable cash flows of renewable energy assets.

The success of the bond issue will depend on market conditions, investor sentiment, and the company’s credit profile. However, the strong global momentum behind green finance is expected to support robust demand, especially from funds focused on climate-aligned and sustainable investments.

In addition to funding capacity expansion, the bond proceeds may also be used for acquisitions, project development, and operational efficiencies. This can help ReNew enhance scale, optimize asset performance, and strengthen its competitive positioning in both domestic and international renewable markets.

Overall, ReNew’s planned $500 million bond issue highlights the growing role of capital markets in driving the clean energy transition. By attracting global investors and securing long-term funding, the company is reinforcing its ability to deliver large-scale renewable projects and contribute meaningfully to the shift toward a low-carbon energy future.

LNK Energy Unveils Integrated Clean Energy Platform with ₹10,000 Crore Investment Roadmap – EQ

In Short : LNK Energy has launched an integrated clean energy platform and announced plans to invest ₹10,000 crore over the next five years. The initiative aims to build a comprehensive ecosystem spanning renewable generation, storage, and digital energy services, strengthening India’s clean energy infrastructure and accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable, technology-driven power sector.

In Detail : LNK Energy has officially launched an integrated clean energy platform, marking a significant step in its strategy to become a comprehensive energy solutions provider. Alongside the platform’s rollout, the company has outlined an ambitious plan to invest ₹10,000 crore over the next five years, signaling strong long-term commitment to India’s renewable and clean energy landscape.

The integrated platform is designed to bring together multiple components of the clean energy value chain under a single digital and operational framework. This includes renewable power generation, energy storage solutions, electric mobility infrastructure, and smart energy management systems aimed at optimizing consumption and improving efficiency.

By adopting an integrated approach, LNK Energy seeks to move beyond standalone project development and instead offer end-to-end energy solutions. This model allows customers, including industries, commercial users, and utilities, to access a unified ecosystem that combines generation, storage, monitoring, and analytics for better energy planning and cost management.

The ₹10,000 crore investment roadmap reflects LNK Energy’s intention to scale its operations across multiple clean energy segments. A significant portion of the investment is expected to be directed toward building new renewable capacity, expanding storage infrastructure, and developing digital platforms that support real-time energy management and grid interaction.

Energy storage is expected to play a central role within the platform, enabling the integration of intermittent renewable sources such as solar and wind. By deploying battery systems and other storage technologies, LNK Energy aims to ensure stable power supply, enhance grid reliability, and support peak demand management.

The platform also aligns with the broader digital transformation of the energy sector. Advanced software tools, data analytics, and smart control systems are expected to enable predictive maintenance, demand forecasting, and optimized asset performance, creating additional value for both energy producers and consumers.

From a market perspective, LNK Energy’s initiative reflects growing demand for integrated energy solutions rather than isolated power projects. As businesses and institutions increasingly focus on sustainability goals, they are seeking partners who can deliver comprehensive clean energy strategies that include generation, storage, and digital optimization.

The investment plan is also likely to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation, technology development, and growth of local supply chains. Large-scale investments in clean energy infrastructure can stimulate regional development while supporting India’s climate and decarbonization commitments.

Overall, LNK Energy’s integrated clean energy platform and ₹10,000 crore investment roadmap highlight a shift toward holistic energy ecosystems. By combining renewable generation, storage, and digital services, the company is positioning itself to play a key role in shaping India’s future energy landscape and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RARE EARTH MINERALS – EQ

In Short : A recent Parliament question on rare earth minerals highlighted India’s efforts to secure critical resources essential for clean energy, electronics, defence, and advanced manufacturing. The government outlined ongoing exploration, policy support, and international collaborations aimed at boosting domestic production, reducing import dependence, and building resilient supply chains for strategically important minerals.

In Detail : India is not reliant on China for accessing rare earth minerals present in Beach Sand Minerals (BSM) which is the principal ore of Rare Earths (RE) in India. In BSM ore, the prescribed substance monazite occurs, which is a phosphate mineral of Rare Earth Element containing Uranium and Thorium.

IREL (India) Limited (IREL), a PSU under Department of Atomic Energy produces Rare Earth Elements in the form of high pure rare earth oxides from RE bearing mineral Monazite in India. IREL has been operating in three locations having the facility for integrated mining and processing of mineral sands and a facility each for extraction and refining of rare earths. To develop RE value chain in the country, following actions have been initiated :

For strategic sector, a Rare Earth Permanent Magnet plant has been operationalized at Vizag for production of Samarium Cobalt magnets.

IREL has established mini plants for production of Lanthanum, Cerium and Neodymium metals at Rare Earth & Titanium Theme Park, Bhopal as part of the development of RE value chain in the country.

IREL has set up a Rare Earth Element recycling plant at Rare Earth Titanium Theme Park, Bhopal to recover the magnetic Rare Earths from end-of life magnets.

The Union Cabinet has approved the scheme to promote manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) with financial outlay of Rs. 7,280 Crore on 26th November, 2025, to establish 6,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) of integrated REPM manufacturing capacity in the country. Five beneficiaries are envisaged under the scheme through global competitive bidding. A transparent Least Cost System (LCS), comprising a two-envelope process i.e. technical bid and financial bid is envisaged. The Sales-Linked Incentive of Rs. 6,450 crore & Capital Subsidy of Rs. 750 crore is allocated for the scheme period. The scheme is aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing of REPM in the country, thereby contributing to reduce dependence on imports for critical sectors such as electric mobility, renewable energy, electronics and defence apart from facilitating employment generation and strengthening of domestic value chains.

This information given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

ELECTRICITY AMENDMENT BILL, 2025 – EQ

In Short : The Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to modernise India’s power sector by introducing competition in electricity distribution, improving the financial health of DISCOMs, ensuring cost-reflective tariffs, and strengthening regulatory frameworks. The Bill seeks to enhance consumer choice, promote efficiency, attract private investment, and support India’s clean energy transition while ensuring reliable and affordable power for all.

In Detail : Central Government has issued the draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposing comprehensive reforms in the power sector. The draft Bill seeks to take measures for financial sustainability, promote competition, strengthen regulatory accountability, and accelerate India’s transition towards non-fossil fuel–based electricity generation, in alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. The key reforms proposed are outlined below:

i. Financial Viability: The financial sustainability of distribution licensees is critical for reliable and affordable electricity. The proposed amendments mandate cost-reflective tariffs, empower Commissions to determine tariffs suomotu effective 1st April each year.

ii. Economic Competitiveness: High industrial tariffs, cross-subsidies, and rising procurement costs have weakened industrial competitiveness. The proposed reforms aim to rationalise tariffs, unlock demand, reduce costs, and enhance India’s economic productivity and global competitiveness.

iii. Energy Transition: To achieve 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030, the amendments propose empowering CERC to introduce market-based instruments to attract investment and accelerate renewable capacity addition. Enforceable non-fossil energy obligations are also proposed to align the Electricity Act with the Energy Conservation Act.

iv. Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business: The amendments propose uniform national standards of service to improve supply quality and accountability. Consumer-friendly measures include capping assessment for unauthorised use to one year, and reducing appeal pre-deposit requirements.

v. Regulatory Strengthening: To enhance accountability and efficiency, it is proposed that Governments may refer complaints against CERC and SERC Members, with expanded grounds for removal. A 120-day timeline is proposed for adjudicatory decisions, and the strength of APTEL is proposed to be increased to address pendency.

vi. Other Reforms: Powers for installation and maintenance of electric lines are proposed to be transitioned from the repealed Telegraph Act, 1885 into the Electricity Act, 2003, with States framing compensation framework. To reduce network duplication and costs, distribution licensees are proposed be permitted to supply electricity through shared networks, subject to regulatory approval and charges.

Upon enactment, the provisions of the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 shall apply uniformly across all States, including Maharashtra.

Subsidies for specified consumer categories including tribal households may continue to be transparently funded by the State Government under Section 65, without compromising the financial sustainability of power sector.

The stakeholders comments on the draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 were invited on 9th October, 2025. The bill is currently in consultation stage and extensive consultation with different categories of stakeholders is in process.

This Information was given by The Minister of State in the Ministry Of Power , Shri Shripad Naik, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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