Der neu unter Druck gesetzte Abschnitt von Deutschlands Wasserstoff-Backbone ohne Lieferanten und ohne Abnehmer wird oft als klarer Bruch mit der Vergangenheit beschrieben, als notwendige frühe Investition in eine künftige Wasserstoffwirtschaft. Der Stahl erzählt eine andere Geschichte. Trasse, Durchmesser, Alter und Wirtschaftlichkeit der Pipeline verweisen zurück auf russisches Erdgas, nicht ... [continued]

The post Deutschlands Wasserstoff-Backbone und der lange Schatten des russischen Gases appeared first on CleanTechnica.

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.

In Short : Around 740 households in Tripura are earning additional income by selling surplus solar power to the electricity grid. The initiative highlights the success of rooftop solar adoption and net metering policies, enabling consumers to become energy producers, reduce electricity bills, and contribute to clean energy generation and decentralized power systems.

In Detail : Tripura has emerged as a promising example of decentralized renewable energy adoption, with around 740 households now earning income by selling excess solar power to the electricity grid. This development reflects the growing acceptance of rooftop solar systems and the effectiveness of supportive policies that encourage consumer participation in clean energy generation.

The households have installed rooftop solar photovoltaic systems under government-supported programs aimed at promoting renewable energy at the consumer level. These systems allow households to generate electricity for their own use and export surplus power to the grid, transforming consumers into “prosumers” within the energy ecosystem.

Net metering plays a central role in enabling this model. Through net metering mechanisms, electricity exported to the grid is measured and credited against the household’s power consumption, allowing users to receive financial compensation or bill reductions based on the amount of energy they supply.

This arrangement provides direct economic benefits to households by reducing monthly electricity expenses and creating a supplementary income stream. Over time, the savings and earnings can help recover the initial investment in solar installations, making rooftop solar a financially attractive option for residential consumers.

From a system perspective, decentralized rooftop solar reduces pressure on centralized power plants and transmission networks. Local generation helps lower peak demand, reduces transmission losses, and improves overall grid efficiency, especially in geographically dispersed or remote regions.

The initiative also contributes to environmental sustainability by increasing the share of clean energy in the state’s power mix. Each rooftop system reduces reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity, leading to lower carbon emissions and improved air quality at the local level.

The success of these households demonstrates the importance of policy support, financial incentives, and public awareness in driving renewable adoption. Subsidies, simplified approval processes, and technical assistance have played a crucial role in encouraging residents to invest in solar power.

Beyond individual benefits, the program supports broader socio-economic development. It promotes energy self-reliance, encourages community-level participation in clean energy, and builds local capacity in solar installation, maintenance, and technical services.

Overall, the experience of 740 households in Tripura earning income from rooftop solar power highlights the transformative potential of decentralized renewable energy. It shows how clean energy can simultaneously deliver economic empowerment, energy security, and environmental sustainability at the grassroots level.

In Short : Telangana is planning a major transformation of its power sector by targeting a 50% green energy mix and expanding battery storage capacity as electricity demand is projected to exceed 100,000 MW by 2047. The strategy focuses on renewable integration, grid modernization, storage deployment, and sustainable infrastructure to ensure long-term energy security and economic growth.

In Detail : Telangana is preparing for a significant shift in its energy landscape as electricity demand in the state is expected to cross 100,000 MW by 2047. Rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, digital infrastructure growth, and rising living standards are driving a sharp increase in power consumption. To meet this demand sustainably, the state has outlined a long-term strategy centered on renewable energy and energy storage.

A key pillar of Telangana’s plan is achieving a 50% green power mix in its overall electricity portfolio. This involves scaling up solar, wind, and other renewable sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize carbon emissions. The transition is aligned with national clean energy goals and reflects Telangana’s ambition to position itself as a leader in sustainable development.

Solar energy is expected to play a dominant role in this transition due to Telangana’s high solar potential and availability of land for large-scale projects. Rooftop solar, utility-scale solar parks, and solar integration in industrial and commercial zones are being promoted to decentralize generation and reduce transmission losses. Wind and hybrid renewable projects are also expected to complement solar generation.

As renewable energy penetration increases, grid stability becomes a critical challenge. Intermittent power generation from solar and wind creates variability that must be managed effectively. To address this, Telangana is planning significant investments in battery energy storage systems to balance supply and demand, ensure reliability, and support round-the-clock power availability.

Battery storage is being positioned as a strategic enabler of the green transition. Large-scale storage systems will allow excess renewable energy generated during peak periods to be stored and dispatched during high-demand or low-generation hours. This not only improves grid resilience but also reduces curtailment of renewable power and enhances overall system efficiency.

Grid modernization is another central component of the state’s energy roadmap. Upgrading transmission infrastructure, deploying smart grid technologies, and integrating digital monitoring systems will enable real-time demand management and efficient power distribution. These measures are essential for accommodating large volumes of distributed renewable energy and storage assets.

The expansion of green power and storage is also expected to have strong economic implications. It will attract private investment, create employment opportunities, and stimulate the growth of clean energy industries within the state. Manufacturing of solar equipment, batteries, and related technologies could emerge as new industrial clusters.

From a policy perspective, Telangana’s strategy requires coordinated planning between government agencies, utilities, regulators, and private developers. Supportive policies, long-term power purchase agreements, financial incentives, and regulatory reforms will be necessary to accelerate renewable deployment and make storage systems commercially viable.

Overall, Telangana’s vision of achieving a 50% green power mix with large-scale battery storage represents a forward-looking approach to energy planning. By proactively addressing future demand growth and sustainability challenges, the state is building a resilient, low-carbon power system that supports economic growth while contributing to national and global climate goals.

In Short : India Power Corporation Limited is set to develop a 70 MW solar power project in Bhutan, strengthening cross-border clean energy cooperation between the two countries. The project supports Bhutan’s renewable energy goals while enhancing regional energy security, promoting sustainable power generation, and reinforcing India’s role in driving South Asia’s green energy transition.

In Detail : India Power Corporation Limited’s plan to develop a 70 MW solar project in Bhutan marks a significant milestone in regional renewable energy collaboration. The project reflects growing efforts by Indian power companies to expand their clean energy portfolios beyond national borders while contributing to sustainable development in neighboring countries. This initiative strengthens energy cooperation between India and Bhutan.

Bhutan has traditionally relied heavily on hydropower for its electricity generation, which has played a central role in its economic and environmental strategy. However, seasonal variations and climate-related uncertainties have highlighted the need to diversify energy sources. The introduction of solar power provides an opportunity to complement hydropower and improve overall energy resilience.

For India Power Corporation Limited, the Bhutan project represents a strategic step in expanding its international renewable energy presence. By investing in overseas solar infrastructure, the company enhances its project portfolio, gains access to new markets, and strengthens its position as a regional clean energy player. Such projects also support long-term business growth aligned with sustainability goals.

The 70 MW solar plant is expected to contribute significantly to Bhutan’s clean energy capacity. Solar generation can help meet rising electricity demand, reduce dependency on single-source generation, and provide greater stability to the national grid. The project also aligns with Bhutan’s broader commitment to maintaining carbon neutrality and promoting environmentally responsible development.

Cross-border renewable energy projects like this play an important role in regional energy integration. By sharing expertise, investment, and technology, countries can collectively strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The collaboration between India Power Corporation Limited and Bhutan reflects a shared vision of sustainable growth and low-carbon development.

From a technological perspective, the project is likely to adopt modern photovoltaic systems with high efficiency and advanced monitoring capabilities. These technologies improve generation performance, reduce operational costs, and ensure long-term reliability. The integration of digital tools can further enhance plant performance and grid compatibility.

The solar project is also expected to generate economic benefits for Bhutan, including employment opportunities, local infrastructure development, and skill enhancement in renewable energy operations. Such investments contribute to capacity building and support the growth of a domestic clean energy workforce.

For India, the project reinforces its role as a regional leader in renewable energy deployment. Indian companies developing projects abroad strengthen diplomatic ties, promote sustainable infrastructure, and demonstrate the country’s technical and financial capabilities in the clean energy sector. This supports India’s broader energy diplomacy objectives.

Overall, the development of a 70 MW solar project in Bhutan by India Power Corporation Limited represents more than a single infrastructure investment. It symbolizes deeper regional cooperation, diversification of renewable energy sources, and a shared commitment to building a resilient, low-carbon energy future for South Asia.

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.

In Short : India is set to launch pilot projects under the India Energy Stack, beginning with peer-to-peer power trading. The initiative aims to create a unified digital framework for the electricity sector, enabling direct energy transactions, improving interoperability, supporting renewable integration, and transforming the power market into a more transparent, decentralized, and technology-driven ecosystem.

In Detail : India is preparing to roll out the first pilot projects under the India Energy Stack, marking a significant step toward building a digital foundation for the country’s power sector. These pilots signal a shift from conventional electricity systems to a modern, data-driven framework where digital infrastructure plays a central role in how energy is produced, traded, and consumed.

The India Energy Stack is envisioned as a national digital public infrastructure that connects all participants in the electricity ecosystem through standardized digital interfaces. It aims to bring together utilities, regulators, system operators, generators, consumers, and technology providers on a common platform, ensuring seamless data exchange and improved coordination across the sector.

The first major use case under the pilot phase is peer-to-peer power trading, which allows consumers and prosumers to trade electricity directly with each other. This model enables households and businesses with rooftop solar or other distributed energy resources to sell surplus power to nearby users, creating a more participatory and flexible electricity market.

Peer-to-peer trading represents a fundamental change in how electricity flows within the grid. Instead of relying solely on centralized power plants and one-way distribution, energy can now move across multiple points in a decentralized manner. This multi-directional flow enhances local energy balancing, reduces transmission losses, and promotes efficient use of renewable resources.

The pilots are expected to test not only technological readiness but also regulatory adaptability. Distribution companies and electricity regulators will play a key role in ensuring that peer-to-peer transactions are aligned with grid stability, consumer protection, and tariff structures. These trials will help shape future policies and commercial frameworks.

Unlike traditional centralized power exchanges, the India Energy Stack itself will not operate trading platforms. Instead, it will provide open digital standards that private companies can use to build applications for trading, billing, settlement, and analytics. This approach encourages innovation and competition while maintaining interoperability across platforms.

One of the most important benefits of the India Energy Stack is its potential to accelerate renewable energy integration. As distributed energy resources such as solar rooftops, battery storage, and electric vehicles expand, the digital stack can enable smarter coordination between generation and consumption, making clean energy more reliable and economically viable.

Over time, the digital infrastructure could support advanced energy services such as real-time pricing, demand response, flexible tariffs, and consumer-centric energy products. These features can empower users with greater control over their energy usage while helping utilities optimize grid operations through data-driven insights.

Overall, the India Energy Stack represents a transformative shift toward a digital-first electricity ecosystem. By enabling peer-to-peer trading and building a shared technological backbone, the initiative has the potential to reshape power markets, empower consumers, attract private innovation, and create a more resilient, transparent, and future-ready energy system for India.

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.

In Short : Over the past decade, India has shifted from chronic power shortages to being largely power-sufficient by massively expanding electricity generation capacity and grid infrastructure. Installed capacity has nearly doubled since 2014, narrowing the gap between demand and supply to almost zero and allowing India to meet peak demand with no shortfall. This transition supports economic growth, universal electrification, and energy security.

In Detail : There is adequate availability of power in the country. Present installed generation capacity of the country is 513.730 GW. Government of India has addressed the critical issue of power deficiency by adding 289.607 GW of fresh generation capacity since April, 2014 transforming the country from power deficit to power sufficient.

The State/ UT-wise details of Power Supply Position, including Maharashtra, for the last three years and the current FY i.e. 2025-26 (upto December, 2025) are attached below. These details indicate that Energy Supplied has been commensurate to the Energy Requirement with only a marginal gap which is generally on account of constraints in the State transmission/distribution network. Hence there is no impact of shortage on the economy and industrial growth.

Further, Electricity being a concurrent subject, the supply and distribution of electricity to the various categories of consumers/areas/districts in a State/UT is within the purview of the respective State Government/Power Utility. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments by establishing power plants in Central Sector through Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and allocating power from them to the various States / UTs.

The Government have taken the following steps to meet the increasing demand of electricity in the country:

1. Generation Planning:

• As per National Electricity Plan (NEP), installed generation capacity in 2031-32 is likely to be 874 GW. With a view to ensure generation capacity remains ahead of projected peak demand, all the States, in consultation with CEA, have prepared their “Resource Adequacy Plans (RAPs)”, which are dynamic 10 year rolling plans and includes power generation as well as power procurement planning.
• All the States were advised to initiate process for creating/ contracting generation capacities; from all generation sources, as per their Resource Adequacy Plans.
• In order to augment the power generation capacity, the Government of India has initiated following capacity addition programme:

(A) The projected thermal (coal and lignite) capacity requirement by the year 2034–35 is estimated at approximately 3,07,000 MW as against the 2,11,855 MW installed capacity as on 31.03.2023. To meet this requirement, Ministry of Power has envisaged to set up an additional minimum 97,000 MW coal and lignite based thermal capacity.To meet this requirement, several initiatives have already been undertaken. Thermal capacities of around 17,360 MW have already been commissioned since April 2023 till 20.01.2026. In addition, 39,545 MW of thermal capacity (including 4,845 MW of stressed thermal power projects) is currently under construction. The contracts of 22,920 MW have been awarded and is due for construction. Further, 24,020 MW of coal and lignite-based candidate capacity has been identified which is at various stages of planning in the country.

(B)12,973.5 MW of Hydro Electric Projects are under construction. Further, 4,274 MW of Hydro Electric Projects are under various stage of planning and targeted to be completed by 2031-32.

(C) 6,600 MW of Nuclear Capacity is under construction and targeted to be completed by 2029-30. 7,000 MW of Nuclear Capacity is under various stages of planning and approval.

(D) 1,57,800 MW Renewable Capacity including 67,280 MW of Solar, 6,500 MW of Wind and 60,040 MW Hybrid power is under construction while 48,720 MW of Renewable Capacity including 35,440 MW of Solar and 11,480 MW Hybrid Power is at various stages of planning and targeted to be completed by 2029-30.

(E) In energy storage systems, 11,620 MW/69,720 MWh Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are under construction. Further, a total of 6,580 MW/39,480 MWh capacity of Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) are concurred and yet to be taken up for construction. Currently, 9,653.94 MW/ 26,729.32 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity are under construction and 19,797.65 MW/ 61,013.40 MWh BESS capacity are under tendering stage

2. Transmission Planning: Inter and Intra-State Transmission System has been planned and implementation of the same is taken up in matching time frame of generation capacity addition. As per the National Electricity Plan, about 1,91,474 ckm of transmission lines and 1,274 GVA of transformation capacity is planned to be added (at 220 kV and above voltage level) during the ten year period from 2022-23 to 2031-32.

3. Promotion of Renewable Energy Generation:

• Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) charges have been waived for inter-state sale of solar and wind power for projects to be commissioned by 30th June 2025, for Green Hydrogen Projects till December 2030 and for offshore wind projects till December 2032.
• Standard Bidding Guidelines for tariff based competitive bidding process for procurement of Power from Grid Connected Solar, Wind, Wind-Solar Hybrid and Firm &Dispatchable RE (FDRE) projects have been issued.
• Renewable Energy Implementing Agencies (REIAs) are regularly inviting bids for procurement of RE power.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been permitted up to 100 percent under the automatic route.
• To augment transmission infrastructure needed for steep RE trajectory, transmission plan has been prepared till 2032.
• Laying of new intrastate transmission lines and creating new sub-station capacity has been funded under the Green Energy Corridor Scheme for evacuation of renewable power.
• Scheme for setting up of Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power projects is being implemented to provide land and transmission to RE developers for installation of RE projects at large scale
• Schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surakshaevam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, National Programme on High Efficiency Solar Dharti Aabha Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA JGUA), National Green Hydrogen Mission, Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme for Offshore Wind Energy Projects have been launched
• To encourage RE consumption, Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) followed by Renewable Consumption Obligation (RCO) trajectory has been notified till 2029-30. The RCO which is applicable to all designated consumers under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 will attract penalties on non-compliance.
• “Strategy for Establishment of Offshore Wind Energy Projects” has been issued.
• Green Term Ahead Market (GTAM) has been launched to facilitate sale of Renewable Energy Power through exchanges.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been launched to achieve the objective of localisation of supply chain for solar PV Modules.

The State-wise detail of Power Supply Position in the country in terms of Energy for the year 2022-23 and 2023-24.

The State-wise detail of actual Power Supply Position in the country in terms of Energy for the years 2024-25 and the current year 2025-26 (uptoDecember, 2025).

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.

UK-based Octopus Energy has agreed to set up a joint venture in China focused on spot power trading, in a bid to scale renewable electricity volumes as market reforms and demand growth accelerate.

Octopus Energy Group said it has partnered with China’s PCG Power to create a new company, Bitong Energy, to trade renewable energy across China’s electricity market. The joint venture was announced during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Beijing in the final week of January.

Bitong Energy will combine PCG Power’s experience in commercial and industrial renewable energy with Octopus Energy’s technology for green energy trading and optimization. The company aims to annually trade up to 140 TWh of renewable power by 2030, with projected profits of around GBP 50 million ($68.7 million) per year, half of which will return to the United Kingdom.

The venture will launch in Guangdong province, China’s leading spot market, and expand nationwide as additional regions open. Octopus Energy said in an online statement that it will deploy its software to optimize the performance of batteries and renewable generation.

China’s electricity demand is expected to rise by about one-third over the next five years, with government mandates requiring at least 10% of electricity to be traded on spot markets this year, according to Octopus Energy.

The China joint venture follows earlier partnerships and capital commitments that have supported the UK energy supplier’s expansion beyond retail supply into energy software and clean energy infrastructure. Recent transactions in Europe and the United Kingdom show that the company aims to combine proprietary technology with institutional capital and industrial partners.

In July 2025, UK workplace pension provider Smart Pension committed GBP 330 million to two clean-energy funds managed by Octopus Energy Generation, targeting renewable energy projects and energy transition technologies in the United Kingdom. The allocation includes financing the United Kingdom’s first investor-funded ground-source heat pump network.

And in September, South Korea’s LG Electronics announced plans to integrate its high-efficiency heat pumps with Octopus Energy’s AI-driven Kraken energy software platform for key European markets, including the United Kingdom and Germany. The collaboration aims to optimize residential heating and cooling by linking heat pumps with Kraken’s grid-responsive controls to reduce energy costs and improve renewable integration.

Wuxi DK Electronic Materials is pursuing two patent infringement cases against domestic competitors, seeking injunctions, equipment destruction, and combined damages of CNY 400 million ($57.5 million).

Wuxi DK Electronic Materials has filed two patent infringement lawsuits with the Jiangsu High People’s Court against Jiangsu Riyu Photovoltaic New Materials and Suzhou Jinyin New Materials Technology , seeking CNY 200 million in damages and related legal costs in each case.

The company said both filings have been formally accepted and registered by the court, although hearing dates have not yet been scheduled.

The lawsuits concern two Chinese invention patents, ZL201180032359.1 and ZL201180032701.8, covering thick-film conductive paste formulations for semiconductor devices, including solar cells. DKEM said the patents are held by its subsidiary Solamet Electronic Materials and relate to lead-tellurium-lithium and oxide-based paste technologies.

DKEM is seeking injunctions to halt the manufacture, sale, and offering for sale of the allegedly infringing pastes. The company is also requesting the destruction of dedicated production equipment and molds, and compensation for economic losses, enforcement costs, and related expenses.

The patents trace back to the intellectual property portfolio of DuPont’s former Solamet photovoltaic paste business, acquired by another entity in 2021 for $190 million. DKEM later consolidated control of the Solamet assets and associated intellectual property.

Suzhou Jinyin is described in Chinese financial reporting as a leading supplier of front-side silver paste for solar cells, ranking third globally by market share. Founded in 2011, it was later acquired by listed electronics firm Suzhou Good-Ark Electronics. Jiangsu Riyu is a fast-growing paste supplier that filed a Hong Kong listing application in 2025, with plans to expand into n-type and back-contact paste products.

This follows earlier high-value patent actions by DKEM. In 2025, its subsidiary filed a suit against Zhejiang Guangda Electronic Technology seeking similar remedies. A Solamet-linked entity also pursued related claims against Changzhou Juhe New Materials in 2021, with domestic and overseas disputes reportedly settled in August 2022.

Separately, DKEM flagged earnings pressure, forecasting a net loss of CNY 200 million to CNY 300 million for 2025, primarily linked to non-operating factors, according to Chinese financial media.

The Finnish start-up says its sand battery technology is scalable from 20 to 500 MWh with charging power from 1 to 20 MW, depending on industrial needs.

From ESS News

Finnish cleantech startup TheStorage says that its thermal storage technology could reduce industrial energy costs by up to 70% and cut carbon emissions by as much as 90%. The system converts renewable electricity into heat, stores it in sand, and delivers it on-demand for industrial heating.

The concept emerged in Finland in 2023, with engineering work beginning in 2024. In January 2026, TheStorage installed its first industrial-scale pilot at a brewery, putting the technology to the test in a real-world setting. There, it produces fossil-free steam for the brewery’s production lines.

“Producing steam without fossil fuels is a major step toward carbon-neutral production,” says Vesa Peltola, Production Director of the brewery.

TheStorage’s technology captures electricity when it is abundant and inexpensive, converts it into high-temperature heat, and stores it in sand. This stored heat can later be used in industrial processes independently of real-time electricity availability.

To continue reading, please visit our ESS News website.

Scientists have grown organic romaine lettuce under 13 different types of PV modules, in an unusual hot Canadian summer. Their analysis showed lettuce yields increased by over 400% compared to unshaded control plants.

A research group from Canada’s Western University has investigated the performance of organic romaine lettuce, a heat-sensitive crop, under a broad range of agrivoltaic conditions. The test was conducted in London, Ontario, in the summer of 2025, during which 18 days had temperatures over 30 C.

“Our study explores how agrivoltaic systems can be tailored to optimize crop growth, especially under extreme heat conditions, while contributing to sustainable energy generation,” corresponding researcher Uzair Jamil told pv magazine.

“This becomes especially relevant in the context of climate change, where we are experiencing temperature extremes across the world,” Jamil added. “We examined the performance of organic romaine lettuce under thirteen different agrivoltaic configurations – ranging from crystalline silicon PV to thin-film-colored modules (red, blue, green) – in outdoor, high-temperature stress conditions.”

More specifically, the experiment included c-Si modules with 8%, 44% and 69% transparency rate; blue c-Si modules with transparency of 60%, 70%, and 80%; green c-Si modules with transparency of 60%, 70%, and 80%; and red c-Si modules with transparency of of 40%, 50%, 70%, and 80%.

All agrivoltaics installations had a leading-edge height of 2.0 m and a trailing-edge height of 2.8 m, and the modules were oriented southwards at 34◦. Pots with organic romaine lettuce were placed under all configurations, along with three pots fully exposed to ambient sunlight without shading, used as controls.

In addition to measurements against the control, the scientific group has compared the results to the national average per-pot yield for 2022, which included less high-temperature days and was therefore considered typical. Those data points were taken from agricultural census data, which later enabled the researcher also to create nationwide projections of their results.

“Lettuce yields increased by over 400% compared to unshaded control plants, and 200% relative to national average yields,” Jamil said about the results. “60% transparent blue Cd-Te and 44% transparent crystalline silicon PV modules delivered the highest productivity gains, demonstrating the importance of both shading intensity and spectral quality in boosting plant growth.”

Jamil further added that if agrivoltaic were to scale up to protect Canada’s entire lettuce crop, they could add 392,000 tonnes of lettuce.

“That translates into CAD $62.9 billion (USD $46.6 billion) in revenue over 25 years,” he said. “If scaled across Canada, agrivoltaics could also reduce 6.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions over 25 years, making it a key player in reducing the agricultural sector’s environmental footprint.”

The results of the research work were presented in “Enhancing heat stress tolerance in organic romaine lettuce using crystalline silicon and red, blue & green-colored thin film agrivoltaic systems,” published in Solar Energy.

Polysilicon trading in China remained largely inactive, with production cuts accelerating and wafer prices falling week on week, while downstream cell prices continued to rise and module prices held steady, according to a trade group representing China's nonferrous metals sector.

The China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNMA) said polysilicon trading remained largely stalled, with only limited exploratory orders completed. One leading producer has halted operations, while two others have implemented production cuts. January output is expected to fall by about 15% month on month, broadly in line with wafer production schedules, with February output forecast at 82,000 to 85,000 metric tons. The association said most wafer prices declined week on week, with average transaction prices at CNY 1.26 per piece for n-type G10L wafers, down 3.82%; CNY 1.32 for n-type G12R wafers, down 7.04%; and CNY 1.52 for n-type G12 wafers, down 8.43%. Downstream cell prices rose to CNY 0.41/W to CNY 0.45/W, up 4.88%, while module prices were stable at CNY 0.71/W to CNY 0.75/W.

Hoymiles has signed a supply contract with Indian renewable energy solutions provider KOSOL Energie to deliver 360 MW of its HMS series microinverters in 2026. The company said the products are optimized for India’s high-temperature, high-humidity, and high-irradiance conditions, as well as for larger module formats, large-scale commercial and industrial rooftops, and complex grid environments.

Boway Alloy has issued a profit warning, forecasting full-year 2025 net profit attributable to shareholders of CNY 100 million to CNY 150 million, down 88.9% to 92.6% year on year. The China-listed parent of Vietnam-based Boviet Solar said the decline reflects impairment charges linked to high US anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Vietnam-manufactured products, which made relocating production uneconomic, as well as reduced subsidies and order losses at its United States subsidiary following passage of the United States “Big and Beautiful” Act. Boway Alloy said it is exploring equity divestment options.

PowerChina has signed an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract through its Colombia branch for a 251 MW solar project in Santander province, Colombia. The scope includes PV plant development, equipment supply, installation and commissioning, with a string inverter plus tracking system configuration intended to improve generation efficiency and operational stability.

Deye said it submitted an application on Jan. 27 to issue H shares and list on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The company said its listing application materials were published on the exchange’s website the same day.

This week Women in Solar+ Europe gives voice to Alba Sande, lawyer at Spanish law firm ASande Legal. She states that, despite progress, women remain underrepresented in the renewable energy industry. "As a woman and a mother, I have often encountered the unspoken assumption that professional ambition must take a backseat to family life, a bias rarely applied to men," she says.

The solar, energy storage, EV charging, and grid infrastructure sectors sit at the heart of the energy transition. What makes these industries particularly suited to, and in need of, gender diversity and inclusion is the nature of the challenge itself. The energy transition demands innovative thinking, long-term vision, and the ability to manage complexity across technical, legal, regulatory, and social dimensions. Gender diversity brings varied perspectives, leadership styles, and problem-solving approaches. Inclusion ensures those voices are heard and valued.

These industries work best when they reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. Decision-making becomes stronger when collaboration replaces uniformity. Diverse teams are not only fairer; they are more effective, more resilient, and better prepared to build a sustainable future.

From my experience, diversity, equity, and inclusion are directly linked to the resilience and success of the renewable energy sector. DEI broadens the range of inputs organizations rely on to navigate complexity. Inclusive workplaces foster trust and psychological safety, encouraging open dialogue and the kind of bold ideas that innovation requires. This is essential in a fast-evolving sector like renewable energy, where adaptation is constant. When professionals feel empowered to contribute, retention improves, decision-making becomes more robust, and strategies are better aligned with societal needs. DEI is not separate from business success, it is integral to long-term impact.

Looking back at my own career, I encountered systemic barriers that many women in male-dominated industries will recognise. Implicit biases about how leadership should look and sound, often shaped by traditional models, were persistent. The absence of visible female role models and the lack of structural support, particularly for those balancing care responsibilities, created additional friction. Overcoming these challenges required building strong support networks, staying grounded in purpose, and allowing results to speak clearly. It also meant resisting pressure to “fit the mould” and instead demonstrating that strategic thinking, empathy, and consistency are powerful leadership traits.

Over time, I have observed important shifts in how the industry approaches gender inclusion in leadership. There is greater recognition that diverse leadership is not simply desirable; it is necessary. We are seeing more women in strategic roles and greater openness to flexible career paths. That said, inclusion at senior levels still requires deliberate effort. True progress happens when organisations understand that leadership potential is not tied to a single profile or personal circumstance. Valuing varied life experiences, including those shaped by caregiving, strengthens leadership culture and builds resilience.

Navigating bias and scepticism has been a defining part of my professional journey. As a woman and a mother, I have often encountered the unspoken assumption that professional ambition must take a backseat to family life, a bias rarely applied to men. Yet this is not about choosing one over the other; it is about integration. Early on, I realised that women with young children are frequently expected to prove they are prioritising work in order to be taken seriously. My response was consistency, results, and a clear message: commitment is not gendered.

Even today, driving DEI initiatives at an executive level remains challenging. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in decision-making spaces. In my experience, around 80% of strategic meetings still involve only men, particularly when critical decisions are being made. One of the greatest challenges is feeling like an equal, owning expertise, and expressing it with confidence in environments where women are often required to repeatedly prove their competence, while male colleagues are assumed to be capable by default. This imbalance makes DEI both essential and deeply personal to lead.

There are still specific gender dynamics within the energy sector that influence career progression. Women, especially mothers, are more frequently questioned about long-term commitment or availability. There remains an unequal expectation to prove expertise. While these dynamics are evolving, progress is slow. Acknowledging them and addressing them without penalising different life experiences is essential for building an inclusive, high-performing industry.

To young women entering the solar and renewable energy sector today, my advice is simple: believe in your voice and your contribution from day one. This industry needs critical thinkers, communicators, and leaders who reflect the diversity of society. Do not allow outdated assumptions to shape your path. Seek mentors who support your growth and organisations that recognise potential beyond traditional models. Being a woman is not a limitation, even when you are the only one in the room. Trust your expertise, ask questions boldly, and bring your full self to the table. The sector will be stronger for it.

Alba Sande is an administrative and regulatory lawyer specialised in energy, environment, and infrastructure. After several years advising major national and international clients at Clifford Chance Madrid, she founded Asandelegal, a boutique legal practice focused on strategic regulatory support for the energy transition. Her experience includes advising banks, funds, and energy companies on permitting, litigation, and regulatory matters in large-scale renewable energy projects—especially wind, solar PV, and storage. Alba holds a double degree in Law and Economics (ICADE) and a Master’s in Energy from the Spanish Energy Club. She is a regular contributor to industry publications and a speaker at sectoral forums. As a woman and mother working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she is an advocate for inclusive leadership and visibility of diverse talent in energy law and infrastructure. She believes that legal certainty, diversity, and sustainability must go hand in hand to meet the challenges of the green transition.

Interested in joining Alba Sande and other women industry leaders and experts at Women in Solar+ Europe? Find out more: www.wiseu.network

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that in January most of East Asia experienced normal to above-average solar irradiance, with southeastern China seeing surges due to reduced clouds and low aerosol levels under lingering La Niña effects. In contrast, the Philippines faced below-average irradiance from early Tropical Storm Nokaen, while other regional cities like Seoul, Tokyo, and Taipei recorded modest gains.

Most of East Asia recorded normal to above‑normal solar irradiance in January, as weak La Niña conditions continued to influence regional weather patterns. The largest gains were observed across southeastern China, where suppressed cloud formation and reduced aerosol-effects delivered a strong start to the year for solar operators, while unusual early tropical storm activity brought significant rainfall and irradiance losses to parts of the Philippines. With two days left in January at time of publishing, this data uses live data from 1-29 January, and forecasts for 30-31 Jan from the Solcast API.

Irradiance in southeastern China surged well above historical averages in January, with Hong Kong exceeding 25% above average. A dominant Siberian high pressure system, with temperatures in parts of Siberia more than 10 C below normal, extended into western China. The resulting northerly flow delivered drier air into southeastern China, reducing both precipitation and cloud formation. This irradiance pattern aligns with typical La Niña effects, even though the La Niña signal was weak and fading toward neutral by late January. Additionally, lower than normal aerosol levels contributed to above average irradiance in coastal parts of China.

In a continuation of the irradiance and aerosol pattern seen in 2025, many parts of China, in particular low-lying industrial areas saw significant drops in aerosol load and a corresponding increase in available irradiance. Both Hong Kong and Shanghai regions saw significantly lower winter average aerosol loads, than the historical average for winter months from 2007-2026. Whilst this supported the exceptionally high irradiance in Hong Kong through January, Shanghai recorded slightly above-average irradiance, despite experiencing a rare snowfall late in the month. By contrast, Beijing has historically lower aerosol loads, however still saw slightly below-average irradiance due to prevailing cloud levels.

Elsewhere in East Asia, irradiance levels were generally normal to above normal for this month. Seoul and Tokyo recorded irradiance 5–10% above January averages and Taipei saw gains exceeding 10%. Across the maritime continent, irradiance and precipitation anomalies were near normal.

The most significant negative irradiance anomaly in the region was associated with Tropical Storm Nokaen (Ada), which marked an unusually early start to the 2026 Pacific typhoon season. Making landfall in January—the first such occurrence since 2019— Nokaen delivered intense rainfall and heavy cloud cover to the central and northern Philippines. Daily rainfall totals reached up to 200 mm, triggering mudslides and widespread disruption. Irradiance across the northern Philippines dropped by as much as 10% below average, while the southern parts of the archipelago, spared from the worst of the storm, saw irradiance climb to 10% above average.

Solcast produces these figures by tracking clouds and aerosols at 1-2km resolution globally, using satellite data and proprietary AI/ML algorithms. This data is used to drive irradiance models, enabling Solcast to calculate irradiance at high resolution, with typical bias of less than 2%, and also cloud-tracking forecasts. This data is used by more than 350 companies managing over 300 GW of solar assets globally.

Researchers at SUPSI found that six Swiss PV systems installed in the late 1980s and early 1990s show exceptionally low degradation rates of just 0.16% to 0.24% per year after more than 30 years of operation. The study shows that thermal stress, ventilation, and material design play a greater role in long-term module reliability than altitude or irradiance alone.

A research group led by Switzerland's University of Applied Sciences (SUPSI) has carried out a long-term analysis of six south-facing, grid-connected PV systems installed in Switzerland in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The researchers found that the systems’ annual power loss rates averaged 0.16% to 0.24%, significantly lower than the 0.75% to 1% per year commonly reported in the literature.

The study examined four low-altitude rooftop systems located in Möhlin (310m-VR-AM55), Tiergarten East and West in Burgdorf (533m-VR-SM55(HO)), and Burgdorf Fink (552m-BA-SM55). These installations use ventilated or building-applied rooftop configurations. The analysis also included a mid-altitude utility-scale plant in Mont-Soleil (1270m-OR-SM55) and two high-altitude, facade-mounted systems in Birg (2677m-VF-AM55) and Jungfraujoch (3462m-VF-SM75).

All systems are equipped with either ARCO AM55 modules manufactured by US-based Arco Solar, which was the world’s largest PV manufacturer with just 1 MW capacity at the time, or Siemens SM55, SM55-HO, and SM75 modules. Siemens became Arco Solar’s largest shareholder in 1990. The modules have rated power outputs between 48 W and 55 W and consist of a glass front sheet, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant layers, monocrystalline silicon cells, and a polymer backsheet laminate.

The test setup included on-site monitoring of AC and DC power output, ambient and module temperatures, and plane-of-array irradiance measured using pyranometers. Based on site conditions, the researchers classified the installations into low-, mid-, and high-altitude climate zones.

“For benchmarking purposes, two Siemens SM55 modules have been stored in a controlled indoor environment at the Photovoltaic Laboratory of the Bern University of Applied Sciences since the start of the monitoring campaign,” the researchers said. They also applied the multi-annual year-on-year (multi-YoY) method to determine system-level performance loss rates (PLR).

The results show that PLRs across all systems range from -0.12% to -0.55% per year, with an average of -0.24% to -0.16% per year, well below typical degradation rates reported for both older and modern PV systems. The researchers also found that higher-altitude systems generally exhibit higher average performance ratios and lower degradation rates than comparable low-altitude installations, despite exposure to higher irradiance and ultraviolet radiation.

The study further revealed that modules of the same nominal type but with different internal designs show markedly different degradation behaviour. Standard SM55 modules exhibited recurring solder bond failures, leading to increased series resistance and reduced fill factor. By contrast, SM55-HO modules benefited from a modified backsheet design that provides higher internal reflectance and improved long-term stability.

Overall, the findings indicate that long-term degradation in early-generation PV modules is driven primarily by thermal stress, ventilation conditions, and material design, rather than altitude or irradiance alone. Modules installed in cooler, better-ventilated environments demonstrated particularly stable performance over multiple decades.

The test results were presented in the paper “Three decades, three climates: environmental and material impacts on the long-term reliability of photovoltaic modules,” published in EES Solar.

“The study identified the bill-of-material (BOM) as the most critical factor influencing PV module longevity,” they concluded. “Despite all modules belonging to the same product family, variations in encapsulant quality, filler materials, and manufacturing processes resulted in significant differences in degradation rates. Early-generation encapsulants without UV stabilisation showed accelerated ageing, while later module designs with optimised backsheets and improved production quality demonstrated outstanding long-term stability.”

Sweden deployed less solar in 2025 than the year prior despite record growth in the large-scale segment. Solar association Svensk Solenergi predicts last year was likely the bottom of Sweden's installation curve.

Sweden commissioned 652 MW of new solar last year, according to estimates from Swedish solar association Svensk Solenergi. The figure is down on the 848 MW installed in 2024 and takes cumulative capacity to around 5.4 GW.

Residential installations totaled 239 MW in 2025, a 39% year-on-year decrease. Alex Jankell, head of politics at Svensk Solenergi, told pv magazine the household market has been impacted by the removal of a tax rebate scheme as of the start of this year. He added that lower energy prices in comparison to massive hikes in 2022, higher interest rates and inflation have also impacted the market segment.

Although the residential market contracted in 2025, installations smaller than 20 kW continue to represent more than half of Sweden’s solar market, with a little over 3 GW of total capacity. There are now just over 287,000 solar power plants of less than 20 kW in Sweden, equivalent to 90% of all grid-connected solar plants.

Commercial and industrial installations reached 215 MW in 2025, down 35% year-on-year, but utility-scale installations increased, deploying a record 198 MW for 46% more than in 2024.

The large-scale segment accounted for 30% of new solar power in 2025, compared to 7% in 2024. New installations were led by Sweden’s largest solar plant to date, the 100 MW Hultsfred solar farm, and the 64 MW Ax-el solar park. Last year also saw developer Svea Solar announce plans to build eight new solar parks in Sweden with a total capacity of approximately 500 MW.

Jankell said the market is experiencing a shift to more large-scale solar, often combined with large-scale battery installations, but added that challenges remain in high costs or long waiting times for grid connections. He recommended Sweden adopt proposed changes to permitting procedures to make them quicker and more predictable.

The residential battery market is also broadening, with preliminary figures from the Swedish Tax Agency showing around 75,000 private individuals received a green reduction for battery installations in 2025, a 34% increase on the previous year.

Jankell suggested that Sweden’s solar market could be supported further by abolishing energy tax for all electricity that is produced and consumed behind the same meter and implementing proper power-tariffs which reflectively reward the ability of solar and battery installations to help the grid. He also recommended proposed proper revenue frames for Swedish grid companies that reward flexibility, and not only grid expansion.

Jankell told pv magazine more solar is likely to be installed this year than in 2025. “Given the implementation of solar demands in the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, new permitting processes on the way, and a general deflation of PV and battery prices, we predict that 2025 is the bottom of the installation curve,” he said.

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.

China’s TOPCon cell prices rose for a fourth consecutive week, led by higher production costs from surging silver prices and ongoing discussions around the removal of export tax rebates. In contrast, PERC cell prices declined amid weakening demand, due to the industry’s continued technological shift towards TOPCon cells, according to trade sources.

According to the OPIS Global Solar Markets Report released on January 20, Chinese TOPCon M10 cell prices were assessed 2.24% higher on the week at $0.0547/W Free-On-Board (FOB) China. Meanwhile, FOB China Mono PERC M10 cells fell 2.53% to $0.0463/W over the same period.

Silver prices have surged to record highs, gaining more than 40% year-to-date, driven by rising industrial demand and increased investment flows. Chinese policy developments have also further tightened the market, with authorities introducing export restrictions on silver through 2027.

Under the new framework, only 44 approved companies are permitted to export silver under a quota-based licensing system, requiring exporters to secure approval for overseas shipments.

Market sources said silver prices have become a key variable for cell pricing, as silver now represents one of the largest cost components in TOPCon cell manufacturing. Several sources noted that even if upstream prices soften from Q2 2026, cell and module prices are unlikely to retreat to 2025 price levels should silver prices remain elevated.

Since the start of this year, downstream OPIS TOPCon cell prices have surged 46%, while TOPCon module prices climbed nearly 35%. Upstream cost increases have been more modest, with OPIS China Mono Premium—OPIS' assessment for mono-grade polysilicon used in N-type ingot production—up 0.15% and N-type wafer prices up around 13% over the same period.

This week, upstream polysilicon and wafers segments showed early signs of weakness, with OPIS China Mono Premium and N-type M10 wafers down 2.34% and 2.20%, respectively. In contrast, FOB China TOPCon modules continued to edge higher by 3.48% over the same period.

According to the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNMIA), sentiment in the wafer segment remained cautious this week, with upstream and downstream players locked in a stalemate. Despite continued price gains in cells and modules, driven by export tax rebate policy changes and rising silver prices, price increases have yet to effectively transmit upstream.

CNMIA noted that domestic end demand remains sluggish, and under cost pressure, cell manufacturers have become increasingly reluctant to accept high-priced wafers, resulting in few wafer procurement orders.

With downstream demand unlikely to recover meaningfully before the Lunar New Year, and polysilicon prices showing signs of softening, the wafer market is expected to stay weak in the near term, the association added.

Downstream sources added that higher production costs, combined with weak end-user module demand, could limit cell output levels in the longer term.

Market analysts have previously projected China’s installation demand to fall by over 20% in 2026, following the transition from feed-in-tariffs to a market-based electricity pricing mechanism. Furthermore, the planned removal of export tax rebates may weigh on overseas demand, reinforcing a bearish demand outlook for cells later this year, sources said.

OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides energy prices, news, data, and analysis on gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, LPG/NGL, coal, metals, and chemicals, as well as renewable fuels and environmental commodities. It acquired pricing data assets from Singapore Solar Exchange in 2022 and now publishes the OPIS APAC Solar Weekly Report.