Patrick Jowett
Malaysian scheme lets businesses buy on-grid renewables from developers
A new initiative now allows businesses in Malaysia to purchase green electricity directly from renewable energy developers through the national grid. The country’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) estimates that it will generate more than MYR 10 billion ($2.4 billion) in direct investments.
Storing surplus PV power with thermal storage electric boilers
Tokyo-based heavy industry manufacturer IHI Corporation has created a thermal utilization system that can convert surplus direct current power at solar plants into carbon-free steam. A test project that commenced in April has used all generated electricity and is operating stably, the company says.
Solar pipeline in Philippines’ Visayas region hits 760 MW
Figures from the Philippines Department of Energy (DOE) show that 1.98 GW of renewable energy projects are under construction on the archipelago of Visayas, with solar accounting for more than one-third of the capacity.
IEA calls for stronger solar, wind integration measures
The International Energy Agency’s (IEA) latest report warns that failing to support integration at the point of deployment could jeopardize up to 15% of solar and wind projects by 2030. This shortfall would reduce their combined share of the global electricity mix by 5%.
EU approves €1.2 billion renewables grant scheme in Poland
The European Commission has given the green light to a €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) state aid program in Poland that provides direct grants to companies producing solar panels, batteries, heat pumps, and other renewable equipment components.
Cape Verde inaugurates largest solar plant
Cape Verde has inaugurated a 5 MW solar array on Sal Island – its largest PV plant to date, according to the Ministry of Energy and Commerce.
UK think tank predicts 593 GW of new global PV installations for 2024
UK-based energy think tank Ember says it expects 593 GW of solar to be added throughout the world this year – 29% more than in 2023. It says 292 GW were installed by the end of July.
Sweden to lower solar subsidy, scrap tax breaks for electricity micro-production
The Swedish government is considering reducing the subsidy for solar installations and removing the income tax reduction for households and businesses that micro-produce renewable electricity. Svensk Solenergi, Sweden’s leading solar association, has criticized the proposals.
Quebec to run 150 MW solar tender before end of year
The government of the Canadian province of Quebec is calling on utility Hydro-Quebec to run two solar tenders totaling 300 MW – one by the end of 2024 and another by the end of 2026. This marks the province’s first call for solar development on a commercial basis.
EDF, Masdar secure financing for 1.5 GW of solar near Abu Dhabi
EDF Renewables, Korea Western Power Co. (Kowepo), and Masdar have secured financing to build a 1.5 GW solar plant near Abu Dhabi, backed by a 30-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Emirates Water and Electricity Co.
