Author: solarenergy

The proposed technique, developed by researchers in South Africa, is based on the water cycle algorithm (WCA), a population-based metaheuristic optimization algorithm inspired by the water cycle process in nature and how streams and rivers flow into the sea. November 21, 2024 Emiliano Bellini Researchers from the University of Johannesburg in South Africa have developed an algorithm that reportedly ensures fair distribution of curtailment across distributed energy resources. The new method is intended to replace the conventional Volt-Watt approaches used by energy companies and distributors. These methods manage and optimize both voltage levels (Volts) and reactive power (VAr) across the…

Manufacturer of solar structures GameChange solar energy introduces TopoSmart+, a project analysis tool designed to minimize topography costs for installations of the company’s single-axis solar tracker on challenging, uneven terrain. TopoSmart+ performs multiple design iterations at a solar project site to determine lower-cost grading and steel pole options, optimize tracker height, and generate grading plans. This tool’s 3D modeling supports both the straight pipe and terrain-following configurations of GameChange’s Genius Tracker to ensure the tracker design is tailored to the specific conditions of a location. For owners interested in terrain tracking systems, GameChange offers solar trackers for both moderate terrain…

Italian heterojunction module manufacturer 3Sun says it started production at its factory in Catania, Italy, in September. November 19, 2024 Sergio Matalucci By pv magazine Italy Italian solar panel manufacturer 3Sun, a subsidiary of energy company Enel, has received TÜV Rheinland certification for its heterojunction panels, allowing it to begin sales. Enel CEO Flavio Cattaneo announced the certification at a meeting with investors while presenting the company’s plan for 2025-2027. “There is no delay on our part,” he said, adding that the Transition 5.0 program could increase the competitiveness of the 3Sun project in Sicily. Sources previously indicated that they…

More than 200 New Yorkers called on Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to build 15 GW of renewable energy during a rally and public hearing at John Jay College on Wednesday evening. The speakers ranged from 14-year-old students to an 89-year-old member of PSC-CUNY, a union that has hosted ten of its town halls on decarbonizing its NYPA-powered facilities. NYPA is holding public hearings across the state to gain feedback on the recently released draft plan to implement the Build Public Renewables Act (BPRA). NYPA’s draft plan proposes building only 3.5 GW of renewable energy,…

Researchers from Germany and India have demonstrated an inkjet printing method to fabricate formamidinium-tin-lead-perovskite solar cells, achieving an energy conversion efficiency of 10.26% and an energy bandgap of 1.25 eV. November 21, 2024 Valerie Thompson An international research team has used an inkjet printing process to fabricate formamidinium tin-lead (Sn-Pb) perovskite thin films for applications in perovskite solar cell manufacturing. “This work represents a significant advance in the development of low-lead, environmentally friendly perovskite solar cells using inkjet printing technology. Our team led by Prof. Eva Unger focused on optimizing the inkjet printing process to ensure accurate film deposition and…

The Enphase portable battery with accessories sold separately. Enphase Energy has announced the availability of its new portable energy system, the IQ PowerPack 1500, for pre-order in the United States and Canada. This latest addition to the Enphase suite of products is a 1,500-Wh smart, go-anywhere portable energy system that can power most small appliances in the home, at work or outdoors. Watch a video about this new product on the Enphase website. The IQ PowerPack 1500 is designed to provide battery backup, helping to ensure essential electronics stay up and running during power outages. It also supports off-grid adventures,…

New initiative gives Indian women the opportunity to follow solar training Native American women across the country will have access to hands-on training in photovoltaic panel installation, with the goal of empowering them to deploy solar systems in their communities and homes on tribal lands. Sandra Begay, an engineer at Sandia National Laboratories and a member of Navajo Nation, is one of four mentors guiding this effort. This training initiative is part of a cooperative research and development agreement between Sandia and Red Cloud Renewable, a nonprofit organization in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, focused on advancing energy independence for tribal…

Martin Schachinger, founder of pvXchange.com, says November’s 8% price drop for solar panels could mark the end of ongoing declines as market signals point to a possible recovery. November 21, 2024 MARTIN SCHACHINGER, PVXCHANGE.com By pv magazine Germany The sharp drop in solar panel prices in November could mark the end of the ongoing decline as the market shows signs of recovery. Prices fell by an average of 8% across all technologies, putting pressure on margins even on recently purchased modules. This decline was due to subdued demand, year-end stock clearance campaigns and distress sales due to insolvency. Some modules…

Abhi Parmar Altus strength has acquired a 3.4 MW solar project in Maryland from Chaberton Energy, which Altus Power will complete development and then build. Upon completion, power generated by the assets, owned and operated by Altus and located in East New Market, Maryland, will be delivered to the local community through the state’s Community Solar Energy Generating Systems pilot program. “We are proud to expand our portfolio in Maryland and grow our Community Solar subscriber base in the state, helping more households access the benefits of clean, electric energy,” said Abhi Parmar, Chief Investment…

Panasonic has launched its new R32 heat pumps, introducing the EXTERIOS Z and ClimaPure XZ series. The models offer heating capacities ranging from 10,900 Btu/h to 28,800 Btu/h, depending on specifications. November 21, 2024 Lior Kahana Japan’s Panasonic has released two new heat pump lines for the Canadian market. The EXTERIOS Z and ClimaPure XZ product lines are ductless and use R32 (difluoromethane) as a refrigerant. “R32 is a more climate-friendly refrigerant that maintains efficient heat transfer capabilities,” the company said. “We are setting a new standard for air quality and energy efficiency and paving the way for a more…