Patrick Jowett
Swiss utility to support more targeted use of solar power with dynamic tariff
Swiss energy company CKW says its new tariff, which will calculate prices according to kilowatts, rather than just kilowatt-hours, will incentivize more targeted use of solar power during the day.
European Commission opens second hydrogen auction
The European Commission’s second hydrogen auction allocates €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) for projects supporting renewable hydrogen production, with €200 million earmarked for projects with off-takers in the maritime sector. Bidding is open until Feb. 20, 2025.
Czech electricity grid to get €400 million upgrade
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a €400 million ($420 million) loan to Czech utility ČEZ to upgrade and expand Czechia’s electricity distribution grid. The upgrades are expected to help absorb up to 5.5 GW of new renewable capacity.
Convalt Energy commits to community solar plants in Chad
US-based Convalt Energy has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chad’s Ministry of Water and Energy for three community solar plants totaling 3 MW, along with 1.5 MWh of battery storage.
Ecoprogetti expands solar production line to 1 GW in Morocco
Italian manufacturer Ecoprogetti has ramped up the capacity of a PV production line in Morocco, operated by Almaden Morocco, from 500 MW to 1 GW.
South Africa deploys 961 MW of solar in January-October period
The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has shared forecasts with pv magazine projecting strong growth for the nation’s solar sector, despite a decline in deployment compared to last year. Utility-scale public sector plants are scheduled to come online next year for the first time since 2019.
South African rail operator launches solar tender
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has opened an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) tender for solar installations at its sites across the country. The deadline for expressions of interest is Jan. 21, 2025.
ADB finances 20 MW solar plant in Bangladesh
Muktagacha Solartech Energy Ltd. has agreed to build and operate a 20 MW solar project in Bangladesh, following the signing of a $24.3 million investment package from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
US sets antidumping duties for Southeast Asian solar cells
US trade officials have announced preliminary affirmative determinations for antidumping duties on crystalline solar cell imports from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The tariffs range from 21.31% to 271.28% depending on the company and country.
DEWA launches tender for 2.5 MW alkaline electrolyzer project
Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) is seeking applicants to design, supply, install and commission a 2.5 MW alkaline electrolyzer turnkey project. The deadline has been extended to Dec. 9.
