Combining liquid-based direct air capture with compressed air energy storage
Scientists in China have simulated a system that combines liquid-based direct air capture with diabatic compressed air energy storage, for the benefit of both processes. Exploring its economic feasibility, they found the system could achieve a levelized cost of energy of $0.53/kWh and a levelized cost of CO2 captured from air of $259/tCO2.
US startup offers portable factory for ground-mounted PV plants
Charge Robotic’s portable factory system assembles solar equipment including tracks, mounting brackets and panels on-site and then puts it into place via an automated robotic vehicle. The company’s first commercial deployments are scheduled for this year.
BloombergNEF expects up to 700 GW of new solar in 2025
BloombergNEF says global solar installations could reach 700 GW in 2025, with additions rising to 753 GW in 2026 and 780 GW in 2027.
Bangladesh’s PV tenders fail to attract investors
Bangladesh’s tenders for 41 solar power plants totaling 2.63 GW have failed to draw any bids, as investors are holding back from projects launched between December and January.
Nigeria plans 1.2 GW solar module assembly plant
Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency has entered into an agreement with Oando Clean Energy for a 1.2 GW project consisting of an off-grid power plant, mesh electricity generation, interconnected power grid and solar manufacturing power plant. A 600 MW line is scheduled to be rolled out next year.
Africa’s solar capacity forecast to double over next four years
A report from the Global Solar Council says Africa’s solar deployment is set to accelerate in the coming years, but stresses that mobilizing finance and strong regulatory frameworks will be required to attract investors.
Experimental system cools PV panels while keeping them clean
Researchers had placed a cotton sheet on the back of a PV module, which was then made wet and cooled. On the front side, water was pumped water from a pipe in a way that kept the panel both cool and clean. Their experimental setup showed superior results compared to reference cooling technologies.
India’s 1.2 GW wind-solar hybrid tender concludes with price of $0.039/kWh
Adani Renewable Energy has secured the largest slice of 600 MW. Other winners include Mahindra Susten (240 MW), Avaada (210 MW) and Sprng Energy (150 MW).
The Hydrogen Stream: Hyundai Motor plans fuel cell plant in South Korea
Hyundai Motor says it plans to build its first hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in South Korea by 2028, pending union consultations, expanding beyond its existing facility in China.
U.S. solar installations forecast to decline 1% annually through next decade
Solar may have had a peak year in 2024, as persistent challenges in interconnection labor and more are forecast to lead to 1% annual declines through 2035, said a report from Wood Mackenzie.
