Author: solarenergy
OCI has unveiled plans to invest US$617.9 million to expand production at its Malaysian manufacturing facility from 35,000 to 56,600 tonnes. April 26, 2024 Emiliano BelliniOCIM Sdn Bhd (OCIMSB), the Malaysian unit of South Korean polysilicon maker OCI, will increase the annual production capacity of its polysilicon plant in the Samalaju Industrial Park in Sarawak, Malaysia, by 21,600 tonnes (MT).“OCI Holdings has agreed to invest KRW850 billion ($617.9 million) in Malaysia by 2027 to boost the local company’s production capacity. OCIM from 35,000 tons to 56,600 tons per year,” a company spokesperson said pv magazine.The group increased the plant’s capacity…
The European Commission (EC) has proposed the European Solar Charter (ESC) in response to the challenges facing the continent’s solar industry. The document sets out a series of voluntary actions to be taken to support the EU’s photovoltaic sector and makes no mention of EU trade tariffs or restrictions on cheap imports of solar panels. April 16, 2024 Marija MaischThe European Commission announced the ESC in an effort to support Europe’s ailing solar energy sector. The document describes a series of voluntary actions, including accelerated permitting for the deployment of solar energy and PV production projects, as well as “ambitious…
CPRE research shows that the majority of domestic solar energy is generated in rural areas. Image: Viridian Solar New research from CPRE, also known as the Countryside Charity, revealed that 48 of the 50 English parliamentary constituencies with the highest solar generation are in rural areas. The report also found that all 200 constituencies with the lowest constituencies are in larger cities and metropolitan cities. Analysis of local government data shows that rural constituencies have enough solar panels to generate 12.5 MW of energy annually, compared to 4.5 MW in urban areas. These findings are supported by research from the…
Late last week, the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) dealt a blow to the state’s goal of rapidly growing local energy storage capacity, according to the California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA). The CSLB voted to approve a new rule that would prohibit licensed solar contractors from installing new battery storage capacity in existing solar energy systems or performing maintenance on battery storage systems, including those they installed themselves. Those projects would now require a licensed electrician. Licensed solar contractors could still install smaller battery storage at the same time solar systems are being installed, but the inability to…
Despite the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a large number of homeowners have not taken advantage of the tax incentives. This presents a unique opportunity for contractors to tie these tax savings into their customer offerings. Educating homeowners on the benefits of the potential tax incentives will drive sales and improve cost savings for consumers interested in electrification products — creating a consumer mindset shift that will positively impact our industry and help us reach our climate goals. What the IRA offers homeowners As the single biggest climate policy in history, the IRA includes $370 billion in investments…
SnapNracka manufacturer of solar mounting solutions, and DefinitelyTeeda North American manufacturer of sustainable building materials, partners to provide free solar energy, shelving, asphalt shingles and craftsmanship guarantees on residential PV projects. Credit: SnapNrack SnapNrack and CertainTeed have introduced a solar and solar mounting option to the market that will not void the limited warranty on asphalt shingles against manufacturing defects. Under the partnership, a solar system installed with CertainTeed asphalt shingles, SnapNrack fasteners and CertainTeed Solstice panels is eligible for CertainTeed umbrella coverage, provided the installation is performed by a CertainTeed Solar approved contractor. “One of the most common questions…
Researchers in China have designed a two-stage, solar-assisted thermochemical heat pump system that uses caustic soda and water as a working pair. The system can reportedly achieve an energy storage density of 363 kWh/m3 and is considered by its creators to be an ideal solution for residential buildings with limited space. April 26, 2024 Emiliano BelliniResearchers from China’s Zhejiang University have designed a new solar-assisted system thermochemical heat pump system that can be used for space heating, cooling and domestic hot water (DHW) in residential applications.“In our work, we proposed a system that aims to achieve greater energy storage density,”…
SkyPower Global has signed a 1 GW solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with a Zambian utility to supply electricity to approximately 4 million households. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema praised the importance of the deal amid ongoing droughts. April 26, 2024 Patrick Jowett Image: Michael Pointner, UnsplashSkyPower Global has signed a 1 GW PPA with state-owned companies utility company Zambia Electricity Supply Corp. (ZESCO). That’s what the Canadian solar developer said the Green Giant Zambia project will provide electricity to approximately 4 million households, create jobs and support infrastructure development.“The Green Giant Zambia initiative is a monumental step towards a sustainable…
As Thanksgiving approaches, we think about what we are grateful for: health, happiness, and a warm, comfortable home. This year, why not thank your Colorado Springs home by investing in its value and durability? Home solar panels turn your home into a green energy powerhouse, delivering significant cost savings and a promising return on investment.
The cost of installing a home solar energy system has rapidly decreased over the past few years, and prices are still on the decline. If you’re considering going solar, the best time to act is during the design phase of your new home. By integrating solar technology into your new home’s construction, you can capitalize on both its environmental and financial benefits, avoiding the need for a more complex and costly retrofit installation later on. Tips for Owners and Builders Designing a “Solar Ready” New Home A recent study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reveals that integrating solar…