Fraunhofer CSP presents 380 W solar module prototype built with diodegradable parts
In the module prototype, all components that are not directly used to convert light into electricity are made of biodegradable or recyclable materials or renewable raw materials. The module is the result of the E2 – E-Quadrat project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
Japanese researchers test 15%-efficient perovskite solar module for agrivoltaics
Japan’s Sekisui Chemical launched an agrivoltaics project in partnership with Terra, a unit of Japan-based Citizen Energy Chiba, to test the peformance of its perovskite solar cell technology and the effect of the PV system on plants.
Japan suspends incentives for 342 agrivoltaic facilities
The Japanese authorities have suspended feed-in tariffs (FITs) and premiums for 342 agrivoltaic projects due to violations of new agricultural land regulations. Analyst Makoto Tajima tells pv magazine that this move could hinder the development of agrivoltaics in land-scarce Japan.
South Africa’s 7th renewables procurement round highly oversubscribed
South Africa’s latest auction is the first to be held under a December 2022 government plan to procure 14,771 MW of new generating capacity.
Novel blockchain-based virtual utility for P2P PV trading
Researchers from Canada’s Western University have developed an open-source, blockchain-based virtual utility for peer-to-peer (P2P) solar trading, using smart contracts to save up to $1,600 (US dollars) for 10 homes in simulated scenarios.
EDF Renewables wins tender for largest PV plant in Israel
EDF Renewables says it has won a tender to build and operate Israel’s largest PV plant, a 300 MW project near Dimona, with a bid under $0.019/kWh – the lowest price ever in the Israeli market.
East-west vertical PV as an antidote for soiling in desert climates
New research from Qatar shows that east-west-oriented vertical PV installations can significantly help reduce soiling in desert climates. The scientists found that PV power generation can be up to 9% higher in vertical systems compared to conventional arrays.
Israeli developer switches on 60 MW of solar in Hungary
Enlight Renewable Energy said it has commenced operations at its 60 MW solar park in western Hungary. The Israel-based developer now operates five projects in the country, totaling 144 MW.
KGAL impact fund acquires first solar project in Czechia
KGAL’s latest green energy fund is acquiring its first solar asset in Czechia. The investment and asset manager says the 50 MW plant is due to connect to the grid in 2025.
New direct lightning protection design for east-west rooftop PV systems
Scientists in the Emirates have developed a novel lightning mast layout that reportedly eliminates shading effect on PV panels. The proposed approach also addresses earth grid requirements under varying moisture conditions.
