BIPV solutions for historical cities
A European Union-funded project is bringing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) solutions to eight historical cities in Europe. pv magazine recently spoke with Júlia Pereira, project coordinator for EDP New, about the innovative solutions being blended into the landscape in Évora, Portugal.
Key takeaways from Italy’s K.EY Energy trade show
Italian most important solar trade show has doubled in size this year, with a high number of visitors. Italian solar analysts say the success of the event reflects the strong growth of the nation’s PV market.
One year of net billing in Poland
While it initially had a chilling effect on the Polish residential solar market, the transition from net metering to net billing has also resulted in positive changes, such as better sizing of rooftop PV systems and a higher rate of self-consumption, says Instytut Energetyki Odnawialnej (IEO), a Polish research body.
Floating PV system mysteriously washes up on Hong Kong beach
A local environmental organization has published pictures of the stranded array which appeared last week on two beaches. Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department is currently investigating where the installation came from.
Missing investments jeopardize energy transition, says IRENA
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) told Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue participants this week that $5.4 trillion of annual investment is needed to support the global shift to renewables. Kenyan President William Ruto, meanwhile, called for a fair energy partnership between Europe and Africa.
Greece launches €200 million residential solar-plus-battery subsidy scheme
Greece’s Ministry of Environment and Energy has revealed a new €200 million ($215.3 million) subsidy program for solar projects and small storage systems in the residential and agricultural segments. The scheme is backed by the country’s post-pandemic recovery plan.
IRENA SolarCity Simulator to drive economic opportunities, improve healthcare
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) explains how to optimally use its SolarCity Simulator, an open-access platform designed to help member countries to deploy PV systems at the municipal level.
South Korea cuts capacity allocations from 4 GW to 2 GW in solar tenders
South Korea has cut its 2030 renewable energy target from 30.2% to just 21.6%, as it seeks to reduce support for solar and other clean energy sources, while preparing the ground for more nuclear power and liquefied natural gas. A lobby group is now challenging the plan in the Seoul Administrative Court.
Germany deployed 1.2 GW/1.9 GWh of residential batteries in 2022
Germany’s cumulative residential battery installations hit 5.5 GW at the end of 2022, with the large-scale storage business growing by more than 900%.
Australia hits new rooftop solar record
Residential rooftop solar supplied a record 14% of Australia’s electricity this summer – contributing more than brown coal and more than large-scale wind farms and solar projects.
