Global storage growth of 4.6% in 2017 reflects patchy state of sector, finds BNEF
Despite hitting a record 1.17 GW of new grid-scale storage capacity in 2017, growth was a mere 4.6% on 2016 having surged 61% the year prior. Industry’s reliance on policy support means foundations for growth remain uneven, report finds. Average costs, however, fell by 24% last year.
Japan to install up to 7 GW in 2018 despite cancellation of 14.6 GW of approved capacity — report
Japan will likely install 6 GW to 7.5 GW (DC) of solar in 2018, from about 7 GW in 2017, despite government efforts to cancel approvals for projects that were registered under the country’s old feed-in tariff (FIT) program, according to a new report.
IEEFA identifies nine markets pushing boundaries of variable renewables integration
Latest report by IEEFA showcases nine case studies among the world’s leading states by wind and solar market share, which can serve as an example for other countries on their energy transition pathways.
China to achieve solar grid parity in 2023, slow development of storage hinders RE adoption, survey shows
Examining the outlook for renewables, grid and infrastructure, and energy storage for the next five years and beyond, the Lloyd’s Register 2018 Technology Radar study asks the question: When will renewables become the dominant source of energy?
Northvolt battery project approved for EIB loan that could reach €52.5m
The Swedish storage developer will receive the loan funds via the European Commission’s InnovFin fund, which is part of the Energy Demo Projects facility.
Waiting for the World Bank’s Scaling Solar and Storage program
Expectation is rising that the World Bank’s Scaling Solar program will soon expand to include energy storage. A presentation by global law firm, Eversheds Sutherland this week in London added further weight to this.
UK: London backs solar with funding for 1 GW PV scheme
London has launched a £34 million Energy for Londoners scheme, which includes goal of generating 1 GW of energy from solar by 2030. Shirley Rodrigues, deputy mayor for the environment and energy, presented parts of London’s energy vision this week at the Energy Storage Connected Systems conference.
Panasonic to begin direct sales of solar cells
The Japanese electronics giant announces plans to sell solar cells individually this year, but confirms it is poised to halt module production at its fab in Shiga, Japan, in March.
Enphase share sale raises $20 million
The California-headquartered microinverter specialist announces private equity offering of 9,523,809 shares that have been sold to Chilean entrepreneur Isidoro Quiroga.
Swedish government backs Northvolt battery plant to tune of €15m
The Swedish Energy Agency has granted SEK 146 million to support Northvolt Labs’ large-scale battery manufacturing plant in Västerås, Sweden. Project already secured financial backing from ABB, Vestas and Scania.
