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Your Solar Panels Could Be Losing Most Of Their Power To One Thing You Can Barely See  AOL.com
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Timber Is a Chex Vanz-Designed Camper Van Packing Countless Features Inside a Compact Platform  autoevolution
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Thursday, July 30, 2026
Australian investment giant Quinbrook is moving ahead with the first of two big solar projects that could one day power its plans to grab a share of the global solar PV supply chain that is now dominated by China.
Quinbrook has unveiled plans to set up a manufacturing facility in north Queensland, with an initial focus on a microchip-grade silicon plant in that will be at least partly powered by up to 500 megawatts of solar capacity and a previously approved big battery.
The developer has filed an application under the federal government’s EPBC Act, for a 150 MW component of that project known as Lansdown Solar West project.Up to 400 MW is being reserved for the bigger North part of the development.
“The purpose of the proposed action is to supply renewable electricity to the Northern Quartz Campus within the [Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct],” the referral says.
“The Northern Quartz Campus comprises a series of advanced manufacturing and battery energy storage projects, which combine to create Australia’s first integrated solution to convert Queensland-mined quartz into high purity silicon for solar panels and semiconductors.”
The industrial hub is about 40km south of Townsville and is where Quinbrook, via its development arm Private Energy Partners (PEP), is putting together an advanced manufacturing site featuring a metallurgical silicon factory, and a wood-burning biochar plant to provide the necessary carbon.
There is also the 780 MW, eight hour Supernode North battery which was waved through the EPBC in March that Quinbrook says will store the excess electricity from the two solar projects.
But Quinbrook says is its still planning to put additional battery storage – up to 250 MW, with eight hours of storage – on site at each of the solar projects as well. 
The Northern Quartz Campus sits north of where the 330  kilovolt (kV) CopperStrong transmission line will hook into an existing 275 kV line heading up to Townsville.
Quinbrook is also behind the separate 780 MW, more than 3 gigawatt-hour Supernode South battery in Brisbane, which is intended to support a co-located data centre. 
The land where PEP wants to put the first stage of its solar project in the north is currently used for cattle grazing, the EPBC referral says. 
There are however a few patches on the 535 hectare site that have environmental value. 
“Consequently, a large portion of the study area has been cleared and is heavily infested with non-native plant species,” it says. 
“Corridors of remnant and regrowth vegetation persist along the watercourses including Four Mile Creek and Lansdowne Creek and their tributaries that intersect the study area… The disturbance footprint has been optimised to avoid several MNES [matters of national environmental significance] values.”
A desktop survey of the area found 41 threatened flora and fauna species that might be in the area.
Five surveys later, and PEP whittled that number down to six seen on site: the bare-rumped sheath-tailed bat, masked owl, koala, squatter pigeon, and the migratory forktailed swift and eastern osprey.
The EPBC referral also emphasised the range of pests on the site, from feral cats and pigs to cane toads.
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Rachel Williamson is a science and business journalist, who focuses on climate change-related health and environmental issues.
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French renewables company Solmeria, formerly known as Ferme Solaire, has launched a European-wide platform for selling solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects directly to buyers.
Known as Solmeria Marketplace, the platform spans ground-mounted PV, agriPV, C&I solar and BESS, at all stages of development ranging from greenfield to ready-to-build projects.
The commission, payable only upon successful completion of a sale, is significantly lower than that of a traditional merger and acquisitions agency.
Created at the request of developers, the marketplace is aiming to bring liquidity to all projects, accelerate transactions and reduce intermediation costs.
The marketplace launched in early July. Maxime Curtaigne, CEO of Solmeria, told pv magazine France there are already 28 developers registered on the platform.
There are currently 24 projects listed, all at differing stages of development, totaling 200 MW of capacity. Several hundered MWs of projects are expected by the end of the year.
“Developers know how to sell a project, but they waste considerable time finding the right buyer, and end up grouping everything into a portfolio at the expense of their best assets. We want to reverse this logic: make each project marketable individually and connect it with the person who will give it its true value,” Curtaigne explained.
“Value is not in the portfolio, it is in the relevant connection. Solmeria wants to become the infrastructure for this new liquidity in the European solar market,” he adds.
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Waaree Renewable Technologies Enters Australia and New Zealand with Solar-BESS Project  solarquarter.com
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Researchers from the University of Sydney have achieved a power conversion efficiency of 30.2% for a two-terminal (2T) monolithic perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell.
The result was confirmed by the PV Performance Lab at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
The research team, headed by Professor and John Hooke Chair of Nanoscience Anita Ho-Baillie, said the breakthrough reinforces the University of Sydney’s position as a leader in perovskite–silicon tandem solar cell research.
“The achievement provides a good foundation for further area scaling of perovskite layer for improved electrical performance and stability,” Ho-Baillie told pv magazine.
“A heterojunction silicon cell was used as the bottom junction,” she went on to say. “For the top junction, one of the key challenges in scaling to large areas is achieving uniform solution-processed films. To address this, the team engineered the hole-selective layer to enable uniform and reproducible deposition of the overlying perovskite layer across a large area.
“This tenfold increase in cell area builds on the team’s previous achievement of a 30%-efficient, 1 cm² perovskite–silicon tandem solar cell, independently certified by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in 2024.”
According to Ho-Baillie, the University of Sydney solar research team is now among a small number of groups worldwide to have demonstrated larger-area perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells with efficiencies of 30% or higher.
“To our knowledge, these groups include Longi, Auner, JA Solar, Trina Solar in collaboration with the National University of Singapore, a consortium comprising Soochow University, Monash University, Chint New Energy Technology, Wuxi EliTe Solar, Suzhou Maxwell, the University of Oxford, the Beijing Institute of Technology, and Suzhou Laboratory, as well as Suzhou Maxwell,” she said.
No further technical details about the new device were provided.
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Thursday, July 30, 2026
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Yale Climate Connections

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In Wisconsin, the Menominee Nation is installing solar panels and battery systems at the homes of tribal elders.
Pyawasay: “Here on the reservation … with any major storms, we continuously lose power. And sometimes it’ll be for days, sometimes it’ll be for weeks, so we wanted to make sure that our elders were taken care of.”
That’s tribal utility director Darryl Pyawasay. The tribe is partnering with solar companies and nonprofit funders on the Elder Solar Program.
So far, he says they’ve installed solar and battery systems at the homes of about a dozen elders who need electricity to run medical equipment like dialysis machines or oxygen concentrators.
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When the grid is down, the solar panels and batteries directly power their homes so people can get through an outage without disruption.
The rest of the time, energy from the solar panels flows back to the grid, reducing residents’ utility costs.
Pyawasay: “Most of our elders are on fixed incomes, and any way that we can help them save that money so they can put it towards groceries or put it towards gas … that was our priority.”
So the tribe is using clean energy to help some of its most vulnerable members save money and stay safe.
Reporting credit: Sarah Kennedy / ChavoBart Digital Media

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One of Britain's most accomplished mountaineers has said that the edge of the Yorkshire Dales is the wrong location for a proposed wind farm.
Norwegian company Fred. Olsen Renewables is preparing plans for 23 wind turbines, each more than 200m (656ft) high, on moorland between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
The company said the Hope Moor Wind Farm project would provide enough renewable electricity to power around 135,000 homes and contribute to the UK's net zero ambitions.
Alan Hinkes OBE, who lives in Northallerton, said he recognised the importance of tackling climate change and securing future energy supplies, but worried the scheme would "permanently alter one of England's finest landscapes".
The proposal has attracted opposition from local residents, parish councils and campaign groups, who argue it would industrialise the moorland.
Developers maintain the project would generate significant renewable energy while helping meet national climate targets.
Hinkes, who became the first Briton to summit all 14 of the world's 8,000-metre peaks, is now an ambassador for the Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group, the Local Democracy Service reports.
Cricket legend Ian Botham and the Duke of Norfolk, Britain's most senior peer, have already backed the campaign.
Suzy Wilson, spokesperson for the action group, said: "Alan has seen first hand the impact of global warming, but has stated unequivocally that the Hope Moor Energy Park is the right development in the wrong place."
While acknowledging the role renewable energy has to play, Hinkes believes large-scale developments should be located where they have less impact on nationally important landscapes.
"If we need major energy infrastructure, then we should be asking whether there are more appropriate locations closer to the country's largest centres of population or within more industrialised areas, rather than on the edge of one of Britain's most celebrated landscapes," he said.
Hinkes also highlighted concerns over the site's proximity to military low-flying training routes and questioned whether disturbing extensive peatland could undermine some of the project's environmental benefits.
"If reducing carbon emissions is the objective, then we should not be excavating significant areas of peat and releasing carbon to build industrial infrastructure," he said.
Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Councillors approved solar EV charging scheme for Mereoak Park and Ride near Reading.
The application for a former RAF airfield is with North Northamptonshire Council.
The facility – aiming to train and retain oil and gas workers – could be operational by 2030.
If approved, the project would see 72 solar panels installed on the site in Guernsey.
The bid was submitted amid fears the Coore Arms, in Scruton, could become housing.
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Comparative Analysis of Degradation Mechanisms in Mainstream n-Type Silicon Photovoltaic Modules  Wiley Online Library
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TrinaTracker showcases value of integrated solar solutions in Norsol’s Villacé I and II projects  PV Tech
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Five Reputable Distribution Box Suppliers for Photovoltaics in China 2026: Advancing Reliable Solar Power Solutions  EIN News
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The International Energy Agency’s Photovoltaic Power Systems Program (IEA-PVPS) has published a comprehensive update to its life cycle inventories (LCIs) report. This LCI report – last published in 2020 – serves as a comprehensive database of the materials, energy use, emissions, and processes involved in manufacturing, operating, and recycling PV systems throughout their entire life cycle.
“What stands out most is how much the silicon supply chain has changed since the previous report, and how directly this shows up in the inventory,” Matthias Stucki from IEA-PVPS’ Task 12 told pv magazine. “The aggregated industry data shows a clear increase in the share of internally recycled silicon in ingot production compared with previous report editions.”
 Stucki explained that this concerns a specific, well-defined loop: scrap from the cropping and squaring of monocrystalline ingots retains solar-grade purity and can be reintroduced into crystal growth. “In our inventories this closed-loop recycling is modeled as a dedicated process with its own material and energy inputs,” the contributing author of Report IEA-PVPS T12-33:2026 added.
“What has also substantially improved on the sawing side is the kerf loss in the sawing process: ever thinner diamond wires have further reduced kerf loss, so less silicon is lost per wafer in the first place,” he said. “Taken together with thinner wafers and improved process efficiencies, the environmental impact of the module supply chain has decreased markedly, and the same is true for inverters.”
The report can support researchers, policymakers, industry, and life cycle assessment (LCA) practitioners with its detailed datasets. The dataset regarding the monocrystalline silicon supply chain for TOPCon cell technology includes approximately 29% of global polysilicon, 16% of global wafer, 7% of global cell, and 9% of global module production capacity. CdTe data, on the other hand, represent more than 90% of the CdTe module market.
“The most important improvement in the 2026 report is the data basis for the monocrystalline silicon supply chain. It draws on 83 factory-level LCAs collected in the context of the French PV tender process operated by ADEME between 2022 and 2025,” Stucki said. “Compared with previously available public PV LCI datasets, this substantially increases the representativeness of the inventories, which now reflect the technologies actually dominating the market, including TOPCon on n-type wafers and current wafer and module designs.”
Stucki also added that the update includes new country-specific PV mix figures, as well as a new category of data – bottom-up simulated LCIs for advanced monocrystalline silicon manufacturing, which was developed at Fraunhofer ISE.
“The measured industry data describe what the market looks like, but they are aggregated and anonymized, and they always describe the recent past,” he sai. “The simulated LCIs, however, model the entire chain from polysilicon to module bottom-up, with explicit mass and energy balances for more detailed processes, including factory buildings, facility infrastructure, water management and waste treatment.”
From pv magazine Global

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By: Luis Reyes
Published: Jul 29, at 6:30am ET
America is retiring coal plants at a steady clip, and there is no real aftermarket for the leftovers. The boilers get cut up for scrap, the smokestacks get dropped on camera, and the land tends to sit in permitting limbo for a decade.
In Becker, Minnesota, the most valuable thing at the state’s biggest coal plant turned out to be none of that hardware. It was the plug.
On July 21, Xcel Energy announced it had completed the third phase of Sherco Solar, pushing the site to 710 megawatts generated by 1.7 million panels. That makes it the largest solar facility in Minnesota and one of the biggest in the Upper Midwest, by the utility’s own careful scoping.
The capacity number is respectable. The interesting part is where those panels connect. Sherco Solar feeds the grid through the transmission infrastructure and interconnection rights of the Sherburne County Generating Station, the coal giant next door that has been pushing power into the same wires since 1976. Borrowing that connection let 710 megawatts of solar walk past the single worst line in American energy.
Any new power plant that wants onto the US transmission grid has to join an interconnection queue, where grid operators study what upgrades the system needs before anything gets energized. According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s latest count, published July 1, some 2,061 gigawatts of proposed generation and storage are sitting in those queues. That is more capacity than every power plant currently operating in the country, combined.
The line moves about how you would expect a 2,000-gigawatt line to move. The median project takes roughly five years to get from request to operation, and the backlog peaked near 2,600 gigawatts at the end of 2023 before easing a little.
Sherco Solar mostly sidestepped it. The Midcontinent Independent System Operator, which runs the grid across the middle of the country, gives the owner of a retiring plant three years to reuse its interconnection rights for a replacement resource. Those rights cannot be sold to anyone else, so they are strictly use-it-or-lose-it.
Xcel used it. The nonprofit RMI estimates this generator replacement route can cut connection time from that five-year average to under one year, which in this business counts as overnight shipping.
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Rob Gramlich, CEO of the consulting firm Grid Strategies, put it more bluntly when CNN visited the site in 2024, saying “somebody just has this Disney pass to skip the line.” He also called queue-jumping a sensitive topic in the industry, which tells you exactly how the other 2,000 gigawatts feel about it.
Transmission is the scarce asset underneath all of this. There is rarely a spare line sitting around anywhere on a modern grid, which is why Tasmania is currently rebuilding 287 towers on a corridor it is not allowed to switch off. A live connection with real capacity behind it is close to priceless, and a retiring coal plant has exactly that.
The build itself moved quickly by American standards. First power flowed in late October 2024 at more than 220 megawatts, a second phase followed through 2025, and the 250-megawatt third phase wrapped this month.
All in, the site now spreads across thousands of acres of farm country around Becker and Clear Lake, and it produces enough electricity for roughly 150,000 homes on Xcel’s Upper Midwest system.
Xcel handles the groundskeeping with sheep, which graze beneath the arrays so nobody has to mow 1.7 million panels’ worth of grass. There is a Great Pyrenees named Ozzy on the payroll to guard them. Solar sites keep finding second jobs for their land like this, the way Arizona farms are growing crops in the shade of raised panels.
Every module out there is also on a 25-to-30-year clock, which is its own looming industrial story. The recycling side of that business just switched on in a big way in Georgia, where a new plant strips retired panels down to their silver, copper and glass.
Bria Shea, Xcel’s president for Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, said in the announcement that the project shows how the company can “build upon existing infrastructure and workforce expertise” while demand keeps climbing. Which is the polite version of what Gramlich said.
While all of this happened, the Sherburne County Generating Station kept burning coal, because it is not finished doing so. Units 1 and 2 came online in 1976 and 1977 as a matched pair designed to run together, Unit 3 followed in 1987, and together they gave the plant a nameplate capacity of 2,238 megawatts.
The scale of the old machine is worth pausing on. In its prime it burned about 30,000 tons of coal a day, delivered three trainloads at a time and emptied by a rotary dumper that flips a full rail car upside down every three minutes. Each boiler stands more than 200 feet tall, higher than the dome of the Minnesota State Capitol.
The 680-megawatt Unit 2 shut down for good on New Year’s Eve 2023. Unit 1 is scheduled to follow before the end of this year, and the final unit runs until 2030. So for the next few years the same substation will be moving coal power and solar power at once, which is either poetic or awkward depending on which control room you sit in.
Retirement does not mean the old hardware stops working entirely, either. One of the retiring units is being converted into a synchronous condenser, a huge spinning mass that steadies grid voltage without burning anything. Part of the coal plant will keep clocking in to smooth out the solar farm that replaced it.
The site is also getting a battery unlike the ones you usually read about. Form Energy is building an iron-air system there rated at 10 megawatts and 1,000 megawatt-hours, which works out to 100 hours of storage against the four hours a typical lithium-ion grid battery manages. It is meant for the multi-day gray stretches that make solar-heavy grids nervous, and the chemistry is essentially reversible rusting.
Xcel is not done with the plug. A proposed fourth phase would add 200 megawatts by 2029, lifting the site to 910 megawatts, enough for more than 190,000 homes. The company pegs the expansion at roughly 300 union construction jobs and $90 million in local economic benefits.
Larger battery installations are planned around the site as well, and Xcel says those would ride the same existing grid connections. None of it is a done deal yet, since phase 4 still needs a green light from Minnesota regulators.
There is a hard limit on the trick. It only works where a large fossil plant is retiring with its interconnection rights intact, inside that three-year window, with somebody ready to build on the spot. Everyone else is still standing in the 2,061-gigawatt line.
But if you happen to own a dying coal titan, the arithmetic is settled. The boiler is scrap value, the turbine hall is square footage, and the connection out back is the asset the whole industry is lining up for. Sherco spent 50 years making Becker a power town. Its wires just got hired for the next 50.
Agree or laugh out loud?
Luis Reyes · Jul 17, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 15, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 9, 2026
Olivia Richman · Jun 30, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jun 30, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 6, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 29, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 29, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 29, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 28, 2026
Luis Reyes · Jul 28, 2026
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AIUB team trains on renewable energy in Italy  bdnews24.com
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Serbia commissioned around 61 MW of solar during the first half of 2026, according to data shared by the Association Renewable Energy Sources of Serbia (RES Serbia).
The country’s cumulative solar capacity stood at 318.3 MW by the end of 2025, consisting of 192.2 MW of solar connected to the distribution grid and 125.9 MW in the prosumer market.
RES Serbia told pv magazine that as of the mid-year, prosumer solar capacity had risen to 147 MW, an increase of 21.1 MW on the start of the year, while there are now 223 solar power plants connected to the distribution grid covering 232.82 MW of capacity, an increase of 40.6 MW. These increases take cumulative capacity to around 379 MW.
Danijela Isailovic, RES Serbia general manager, explained that Serbia’s green energy sector faced significant challenges during the first six months of the year, particularly in relation to permitting and grid connection processes.
In May, the Serbian government decided to postpone new grid connection studies for variable renewable energy projects until 2029-2030, which Isailovic said has proven to be a bottleneck for investors, delaying the realization of several projects and limiting the pace of new capacity additions.
Despite these challenges, Isailovic said the demand for new solar capacities remains strong, driven by households and businesses seeking to reduce energy costs and contribute to Serbia’s energy transition.
“The full implementation of the active consumers framework is a major success,” Isailovic told pv magazine. “It has already encouraged companies to take concrete steps toward integrating solar into their operations.”
Zrenjanin-based Linglong International Europe and Belgrade-headquartered HBIS Group Serbia Iron & Steel became the first companies to submit requests to Serbian transmission system operator Elektromreža Srbije to connect solar power plants to the transmission system under the active consumer status, Isailovic explained. Linglong has submitted a 39.9 MW request and HBIS a 63 MW project. To date, there are no solar plants connected to Serbia’s transmission system.
Isailovic added that there are other large-scale projects set to begin construction, including the 300 MW Brebex solar power plant and the 150 MW Solarina project, the latter of which was awarded under Serbia’s second renewables auction. Other projects in the pipeline include the Noćaj 1 and Noćaj 2 solar projects, from Fortis Energy and Construction, which will integrate battery storage.
There are currently 24 battery storage projects that have submitted complete requests for grid connection studies, with a total approved capacity of 4,530.6 MWh, Isailovic said, while several smaller projects are currently in the process of connection under Serbia’s existing Energy Law.
Looking ahead, Isailovic said she hopes certain regulatory challenges will be reduced in the second half of the year, allowing projects to move forward more smoothly. 
“If these barriers are addressed, other green energy projects should be able to develop and be built according to plan,” she told pv magazine. “While the first half of the year has been marked by delays, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic, with expectations that Serbia’s solar sector will continue to grow.”
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Skull Creek is currently under construction and is expected to come online by the end of 2027. Construction will support approximately 200 jobs and generate an estimated $8.2 million in local economic impact for Anderson County.
“We’re scaling fast in the US, with over 2 GW contracted and around 1 GW in construction today” said Sybil Milo Cioffi, Zelestra’s US CFO. “Working with tier-one financing partners such as Natixis CIB is a strong signal of where that momentum is headed — their support reflects real confidence in our execution track record and our growth trajectory in this market.”
Zelestra continues to expand its US renewable energy platform with multi-technology solutions designed to meet the growing energy needs of hyperscalers and corporate customers. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the company is developing a pipeline of approximately 16 GW across key US markets.
“We’re proud to support Zelestra, a valued long-term client, on this important financing that will help meet growing regional demand for clean energy” added James Kaiser, Managing Director and Head of North America Infrastructure & Energy Finance at Natixis CIB. “This transaction demonstrates our ability to provide innovative financing solutions as Zelestra continues expanding across the US market.”
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India’s solar industry is entering a phase where manufacturing depth, technology advancement, and supply chain resilience are becoming as important as deployment scale. As solar adoption expands across residential, commercial, and utility-scale segments, the demand for higher-efficiency technologies and reliable domestic supply of critical components is increasing.
Responding to this changing market landscape, UTL Solar is set to begin construction of its 1.2 GW TOPCon solar cell manufacturing facility in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh. The facility will expand the company’s solar manufacturing capabilities and strengthen its position as an integrated solar manufacturer with expertise across solar cells, modules, inverters , batteries, and complete renewable energy solutions.
The investment comes at a time when the solar sector is increasingly moving towards technologies that deliver higher power generation from limited installation areas. This shift is particularly relevant for rooftop solar, commercial installations, and utility-scale projects, where efficiency, land utilisation, and long-term performance are becoming key considerations.
Solar panels are the final product visible to customers, but their performance depends significantly on the efficiency and quality of the  solar cells integrated within them  . Cell technology influences module efficiency, energy output, and the  development of  next-generation solar modules
While India has witnessed significant growth in solar module manufacturing, strengthening domestic solar cell production has become an important focus area for building a more complete manufacturing ecosystem.
UTL Solar has been expanding its presence across the renewable energy value chain by developing capabilities in solar cells, solar modules, solar inverters, batteries, and complete solar solutions. With four manufacturing facilities across India, the company has been building an integrated manufacturing ecosystem designed to support the evolving requirements of the solar market.
The upcoming 1.2 GW TOPCon solar cell facility in Ratlam further strengthens UTL Solar’s integrated manufacturing ecosystem. It follows the successful start of Mono DCR solar cell production earlier this year, which marked the company’s entry into solar cell manufacturing. The new TOPCon facility represents the next phase of UTL Solar’s technology roadmap.
TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) has emerged as one of the leading high-efficiency solar cell technologies globally. Its ability to improve power generation potential makes it increasingly relevant as solar applications expand and available installation space becomes more valuable.
For rooftop consumers, higher-efficiency modules can help maximise generation from limited roof areas. For commercial and utility-scale projects, improved efficiency can contribute to better utilisation of land and infrastructure.
Speaking about the company’s manufacturing expansion, Mr. Pawan Kumar Garg, Chairman & JMD, Fujiyama Power Systems Limited, said:
“The solar industry is moving towards a future where technology, reliability, and manufacturing capabilities will play an increasingly important role. As customer expectations evolve, the focus will not only be on installing more solar capacity but also on developing solutions that deliver better performance and long-term value. Building capabilities across critical stages of the solar value chain will help us respond to these changing requirements while contributing to India’s renewable energy ambitions.”
The increasing focus on domestic solar cell manufacturing is also being shaped by policy developments and market requirements.
Under the ALMM framework, solar PV cells used in applicable projects, including certain open access and net metering solar projects, need to be sourced from manufacturers and models approved under ALMM List-II. The introduction of ALMM List-II reflects the growing importance of domestic solar cell manufacturing capacity and transparency around approved cell manufacturers.
Similarly, projects covered under Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) provisions require the use of domestically manufactured solar components. This makes the availability of reliable domestic cell and module manufacturing capacity increasingly important for supporting different segments of India’s solar market.
As demand grows for DCR-compliant and high-efficiency solar solutions, manufacturers with capabilities across multiple stages of production will be better positioned to address changing market requirements.
With its existing Mono DCR solar cell production and upcoming TOPCon cell manufacturing facility, UTL Solar is strengthening its ability to support the growing requirement for domestically manufactured solar components.
The Ratlam facility is part of UTL Solar’s broader strategy to expand its manufacturing footprint and develop capabilities across the renewable energy ecosystem. Through its four manufacturing facilities, the company is building expertise across solar cells, solar modules, solar inverters, batteries, and integrated solar solutions.
The upcoming 1.2 GW TOPCon solar cell facility in Ratlam represents another step in UTL Solar’s journey towards becoming a more integrated solar manufacturer and contributing to India’s transition towards a stronger, technology-driven domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem.
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Summer Deals We’re Still Shopping 🏷️
By Mark Wolfe, Glenda Taylor, Tom Scalisi
Published Jul 29, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
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A portable generator can supply power for appliances, electronics, or entire home electrical circuits during a power outage, or for an RV or car-camping trip. Depending on the model, backup generators may be fueled by gasoline, propane, solar, or some combination of fuels. We wanted to know just how good today’s portable generators are, so the Bob Vila team tested 10 popular models in our homes, at jobsites, and on the road.
Our favorite of the test group was the Honda EU2200i. As a small gas inverter generator, it was easy to transport, easy to operate, and delivered clean, quiet power for a wide range of needs. However, we recognize that no single portable generator will be right for every need. The specific combination of outlets is an important consideration, and some users may need higher output while others might prioritize flexible fuel options. This guide covers those preferences and more. Read on to discover other vital shopping considerations and to find out how our top picks for the best portable generators fared in hands-on testing.
Bottom line: Discover the best portable generators of 2026, tested for various needs and preferences, from camping to home backup.
According to our team’s test results, the following products represent some of the best portable generators on the market. Whatever your needs may be, there’s likely to be a generator on this list that will hit the mark. 
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 4/5
A portable inverter generator is a great choice for tailgating, camping, and powering sensitive electronics. The lightweight Honda EU2200i inverter generator features a dependable Honda GXR120 commercial series engine. It produces up to 2,200 starting watts, 1,800 running watts, and 120 volts (V). It’s equipped with an easy-to-use off/start/run selector knob and a smooth-pulling recoil starter. Best of all, this quiet model only produces between 48 and 57 decibels (dB) while in use. 
The compact size of the Honda EU2200i made it very easy to load and go. It weighs just over 47 pounds and has a well-designed top handle, so carrying it a few yards from the shed to the truck was no problem. Its 0.95-gallon tank provides up to 8.1 hours of runtime for a 25 percent load or 3.2 hours of continuous maximum output. We used eco throttle mode (which automatically adjusts power output to match the electrical load) to power a refrigerator for 4 hours, using about a half gallon of gas. 
The Honda’s 15-amp (A) duplex receptacle operates like a three-prong electrical outlet, which allowed us to plug in our devices without worrying about overloading the circuit. It provides plenty of electrical service for basic home backups and can power up a portable table saw and miter saw simultaneously. Plus, it is parallel-ready (conversion kit sold separately), so users can run two together to double the output. 
What our tester says: “Compact, lightweight, and it started on the first pull every single time. This Honda inverter generator produced plenty of power to run power tools and to keep devices powered up in camp. The small size made it super easy to deploy, too.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Honda portable generator at Amazon or Northern Tool + Equipment. 
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 5/5 
No need to spend a fortune for a basic level of convenience and peace of mind. The Wen GN5602X portable generator runs on gas and outputs plenty of electricity to power up an off-grid construction site, an RV, or to keep essential circuits operating through a power outage. 
Initial set-up took about 20 minutes and included assembling the wheels and handles and installing the battery. The unit was delivered with an empty oil reservoir, but it included a premeasured bottle of motor oil. After adding the oil and filling the gas tank, we tried it out. 
Unfortunately the battery was not topped up, so we put it on a trickle charger for a few hours. In the meantime, the recoil starter worked perfectly. The engine started on the first pull. Since the engine is exposed on all sides, it runs about as loud as we expected—88 dB according to our measurements from 5 feet away. A long extension cord helped to keep the noise as far away as possible. After charging the battery, the push-button starter worked well. 
The power output and combination of outlets lend this generator to general use, but it may not be ideal for camping close to others due to the noise. It provided plenty of electricity to run a small travel trailer air conditioner, refrigerator, and microwave oven simultaneously. We also appreciated that the wall-style outlets are 20A instead of 15A, since it allowed us to use multiple high-draw power tools without risk of overloading the circuit. 
Get the Wen portable generator at Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Wen.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 5/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4/5
When it comes to portable generators, 12,000 watts is near the top end, power-wise. The DuroMax XP12000EH is a dual-fuel monster that can power several tools and appliances simultaneously without tripping the breaker. 
We tested the DuroMax using gasoline and propane. It’s designed to run up to 8 hours on a full 8.3-gallon gas tank and up to 7 hours on propane at 50 percent capacity. It also has a couple of perks we really liked, including an electric starter—because who wants to hand-crank an engine when temps are bitter?—and a CO sensor that automatically shuts down the generator if it senses hazardous levels of carbon monoxide gas. 
The DuroMax has several plug-in ports, including a 120V-30A locking outlet, a 120/240V-30A locking outlet, two 120V-20A GFCI outlets (for standard power cords), and one 120/240V-50A outlet. We tested it by running our refrigerator, most of the entertainment devices in our home, and even a window AC that pulls a lot of juice. It didn’t lag at all.
Though we liked its power, the DuroMax missed the mark in a few areas. It doesn’t have drop-down covers to protect the outlets, and it only has two 120V standard outlets. Overall, though, we found this backup generator for home use powerful and easy to use, particularly at this price point.
Read our full review: DuroMax 12,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator
Get the DuroMax portable generator at Amazon.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.75/5; Noise 5/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4.7/5 
Quiet inverter generators are the standard for powering RVs without disturbing the neighbors. The Champion Power Equipment 5,500-watt dual-fuel generator produces plenty of electricity for small and midsize travel trailers, runs all night on either gas or propane, and keeps the noise level to a minimum. It arrives fully assembled and comes equipped with premium features that campers will appreciate, including a push-button starter and built-in LED lights to illuminate the control panel and fuel filler areas.
The Champion inverter generator was big and heavy, so it took two of us to load it into the truck. The wheels were a bit undersized for the size and weight. It was difficult to roll the unit across a loose gravel driveway without getting lodged on a rock. We did like the extendable fold-down handle—just lift and go. 
In addition to the 30A RV outlet, we liked that this generator included lots of wall-style outlets. The configuration offered more flexibility than others we tested: while keeping the air conditioner and refrigerator running in the RV, for example, we were able to run corded power tools without a dropoff in performance. Unlike some inverter generators, this one did not have USB ports for small devices, so you’ll need a wall hub for that.
Get the Champion Power Equipment portable generator at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 5/5; Portability 4.5/5; Power 5/5; Value 4.5/5 
Portable solar generators have become popular for off-grid work and living, as well as for home backup systems in the event of emergencies. The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max stores a surprising amount of electricity in a compact, portable package—enough to keep a refrigerator running up to 14 hours on a single charge.
We tested the Delta 2 Max more thoroughly than most of the gas generators on our list, as there were numerous variables. The available outlets limit its functionality to small and midsize tasks like charging other devices and running appliances and tools. It’s probably the best option we tested for keeping a home office up and running, simply because of the generous number of outlets and clean, steady electrical current. Plus, there are so many different ways to charge it, with or without the solar panel.
We charged it with the solar panel alone, which took a full day in fair conditions. When we tried to charge with a car outlet, it took 5 hours just to add 25 percent, so we discontinued that experiment. Charging on a regular wall outlet took 1.25 hours.
We also used a gas generator to top it up when the sun decided not to cooperate, which turned out to be a handy fuel-saving strategy: burn 1.5 hours of gas in a small inverter to charge this unit while powering other devices, then let the EcoFlow take over for 10 to 15 hours or longer. When the sun is out, it can simultaneously charge and discharge, so the maximum run time could be significantly longer depending on how much power is needed.
That brings up another cool design feature. Delta 2 Max is expandable. Adding two EcoFlow Smart Extra Batteries boosts storage capacity to 6,000 watt-hours. Adding extra batteries does not increase output, but it can help those with higher power demand hedge against extended outages.
Read our full review: EcoFlow Delta 2 Max Portable Power Station
Get the EcoFlow portable solar generator at Amazon or EcoFlow.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 5/5; Power 5/5; Value 4.5/5 
Dual-fuel portable generators provide the flexibility required to keep things running on the most convenient or affordable fuel. This one from Westinghouse runs on either gas or propane and includes two 120V-20A outlets to power high-draw tools and appliances directly. It also features a transfer switch ready 120/240V 4-prong locking 30A outlet for emergency backup, and a 30A RV outlet.
We had the Westinghouse portable generator up and running in less than 20 minutes. The handle came preinstalled, so we only had to attach the wheels and add the premeasured oil that was included. The fuel tank holds 4.7 gallons of gas, which is enough to keep it running up to 14.5 hours per fill-up. Alternatively, it can run up to 9 hours on a 20-pound tank of propane. It started on the first pull while it was running on gasoline, and three pulls with propane. 
Although it comes with an RV outlet, we only recommend that option for boondocking or at a distance from other campers. The advertised 68 dB rating did not match our observation of 88.5 dB on average (at a distance of 5 feet). That’s quite a bit louder than many private campgrounds will allow—and may even keep you up at night. 
What our tester says: “The Westinghouse dual fuel generator had less of a power dropoff when running on propane compared to other dual fuel models I’ve used. I also really liked the simple but strong transport handle. Lots of small details done right on this one.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Westinghouse portable generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 5/5; Portability 5/5; Power 4/5; Value 4.5/5 
We like small inverter generators because they are quiet, fuel-efficient, easy to transport, and deliver clean power that is safe for sensitive electronic devices. The Yamaha EF2200is is a perfect example because it offers similar output and performance to our Best Overall pick at a more affordable price. 
For ease of transportation, we especially liked the tri-handle configuration that allowed easy one- or two-handed carrying. The sound level–we measured 71 dB at 5 feet–won’t bother the neighbors. Startup is easy, and the side panels provided reasonably quick access to the engine compartment to check the oil level or add oil and to change the spark plug. 
The outlet configuration could run a fridge while also charging batteries during a power outage, or power a small off-grid build site or RV (with a little help). It is important to note that full 30A output through the RV outlet is only available when two of these generators are configured in parallel.
Get the Yamaha portable generator at Amazon or Camping World.
We carefully researched more than 35 portable generators before choosing 10 highly rated models for hands-on testing. We looked at consumer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, value, and versatility. We also considered brand reputation. Our goal was to test models that would suit diverse user needs.
To test the generators, we assembled and fueled them according to each manufacturer’s instructions. We plugged in tools, appliances, and electronic devices according to an online wattage calculator to see if the generators would produce their advertised power. 
We tested the decibel level the generators produced when operating and noted how easy or challenging they were to move. Then we awarded points based on a rubric for how well each generator performed on specific tests and gave ratings for ease of use, noise, portability, power, and value. 
Choosing which portable generator to buy depends on how much power you need, which fuel type you prefer, and where you intend to take it.
Generators vary by the number of watts they are capable of producing. To find the right option, determine how many watts you need. The answer depends on how you want to use your generator. 
Make a list of must-have appliances and write down how many watts each one needs to operate. Lighting typically requires 60 to 200 watts, a refrigerator needs about 600 watts, and a space heater or electric water heater may need as many as 1,500 watts. For many homeowners, a generator in the 5,000- to 7,000-watt range provides sufficient energy for power outages and major appliances.
Your list of must-have appliances also affects whether the ideal generator should be dual-fuel capable or will need to run on gas, propane, diesel, or solar power. 
Portable inverter generators produce electricity in three phases, first creating a high-frequency AC, which is then inverted to DC and then again to standard AC. Not only do portable inverter generators create more electricity, but this process also produces a very stable electrical flow, which is necessary for protecting delicate electronic systems such as those in computers and office equipment.
Portable generators can be heavy in order to supply power to small or large appliances, homes, power tools, and even RVs. A good rule of thumb with generators is that the larger the unit, the more power output it likely has. Many portable generators range in weight from 90 to 200 pounds, but they usually come with built-in handles and wheels to help with maneuvering and portability. 
Alternatively, some small portable generators weigh between 20 and 50 pounds, but these supply less power than larger generators. 
Portable gas-powered portable generators can be pretty loud. But some quiet generators are built with noise-absorbing glass wool, special mufflers, and vibration-absorbing feet. If users anticipate noise being an issue, the best generators to consider are ones specially designed to do their work effectively but quietly. 
A dual-fuel portable generator will produce 50 to 90 decibels (dB) of noise, depending on the size of the generator, the type of fuel (gasoline runs louder than propane), and the unit’s power output. Most generators fall between 65 and 75 dB, which is comparable to the noise produced during normal conversation. 
To understand the range of sound produced by a generator, consider these common sounds and their equivalent operating decibel levels:
The quietest dual-fuel generators belong to a relatively small group of products that utilize dual-fuel technology and inverter technology to create a dual-fuel inverter generator.
While the above features are important aspects to consider before purchasing a portable generator, there are a few special features included in select models that add convenience and power. 
Looking for more information about portable generators? Consider the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this particular type of generator.
No, most portable generators will not provide enough power for a typical house. Portable generators for home use are designed to power important items like appliances and digital devices. For more reliable backup power, consider a standby generator. 
Probably not. While a 22-kilowatt–hour generator may be enough to power most essentials and some smaller homes, it may not be powerful enough to power a medium- to large-sized home.
Users looking for a whole home generator will want to look for a heavy-duty model that produces at least 7,500 watts of power. This size generator can power many of a home’s small to large appliances. Many of these models may be heavy, often weighing over 100 pounds. 
A good generator for power outages should provide somewhere between 7,500 to 12,000 watts. This is enough to power small and large devices while keeping the lights on. Additionally, an emergency generator for home​ use should also incorporate automatic shut-offs or surge protection to ensure reliable usage without malfunctioning. 
Yes, gas portable generators are known for being loud, but there are options with sound-dampening features that reduce noise. Electric models are also much quieter than gas ones.
No, it isn’t recommended to run a portable generator unattended, and this includes overnight. Most appliances will be fine if left unpowered for a period of time. However, food in an unpowered refrigerator can go bad after 4 hours, and food in a freezer without power can become unsafe after 24 hours.
If you need to run a portable generator overnight, ensure it has been well-maintained and sits on stable ground away from the house to eliminate any chance of tipping over or causing carbon monoxide poisoning.
Most portable generator brands provide models lasting over 20 years or 3,000 hours of use. 
The Bob Vila test team is made up of contractors, remodelers, home design enthusiasts, and freelancers from across the nation. Each member is dedicated to delivering high-quality product information to our readers so they can shop with confidence, knowing the products they purchase have been fully tested and vetted.
Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer. With experience in both residential and commercial building applications, she focuses primarily on construction, woodworking, and DIY tools and techniques. 
Mark Wolfe is a writer, product tester, and avid DIYer. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about power tools, lawn care equipment, home repair products, and outdoor living goods.
Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes.
Additional testing performed by Zach Lazzari. 
After Testing 20 Air Purifiers, We Found One That Does Something the Rest Can’t
Same functionality, different package? Not with this Sans air purifier, which offers more advanced filtration and features than most models I’ve tested—without a premium price tag.
Mark Wolfe is a BobVila.com staff writer with an extensive background in the horticulture industry.
Glenda Taylor is a BobVila.com staff writer with a background in the residential remodeling, home building, and home improvement industries. She started writing for BobVila.com in 2016 and covers a range of topics, including construction methods, code compliance, tool use, and the latest news in the housing and real estate industries. 
Tom Scalisi is a writer for some of the largest DIY and construction-related websites in the world. He has a passion for building: he loves creating something from the ground up, stepping back, and admiring a job well done.
Learn more about BobVila.com Editorial Standards
We’re committed to testing and reviewing products so you can make an informed decision. Advertising does not influence our product reviews and it never will. We always focus our coverage on standout products and never hesitate to mention their flaws and quirks. By using our affiliate links, you’re supporting our work and helping us continue to provide expert analysis. Find out more about our product evaluation process.
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California addressed major bottlenecks by installing solar panels over a canal to generate clean power.
As climate change accelerates, nations are under pressure to rapidly scale up renewable energy capacity.
This race often leads to the displacement of agriculture and natural ecosystems.
With finite natural resources already at risk, developers must find ways to address all major challenges.
Will covering canals end up being the answer the world has been looking for?
Each choice that is made carries one or two or more consequences.
When society chose to embrace digitization, modern life became more advanced and hyperconnected.
Several operations became more streamlined, and services more convenient.
Yet, the greater environmental costs of this decision usually become clear only later.
Rapid digital growth, cloud computing, and global data networks require immense amounts of electricity.
Worldwide, farmland, green spaces, and even clean energy investments are making way for data center expansion.
Beyond straining local grids, these data hubs also strain local water supplies.
Furthermore, the UN noted that the tech sector now accounts for more than 1.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
This is because digital operations must run 24/7, forcing utilities to rely on fossil fuels.
Global coal and gas combustion traps heat, shifts climate cycles, and accelerates environmental damage worldwide.
To slow this trend, nations must fast-track the shift toward renewables.
The green energy transition is crucial for long-term climate resilience.
Renewable sources such as solar power operate emission-free.
The technology also helps preserve freshwater. Conventional power plants usually require billions of gallons of water for cooling.
Global warming is already straining the world’s freshwater reservoirs.
With major shifts in atmospheric patterns, several regions worldwide are experiencing prolonged droughts and low rainfall.
The UN has already warned of a rapidly growing global shortage of drinking water.
This is why scaling the leading renewable energy source, solar energy, is key.
However, progress is slowing down due to severe land-use conflicts.
Large-scale solar development often leads to deforestation, natural habitat destruction, and competition with agriculture.
To overcome this deadlock, developers and policymakers need space-saving, existing infrastructure solutions to boost green capacity.
TID Water & Power exemplified this by covering a canal in California with solar panels.
The California State Portal framed this project as a proof of concept for broader policy goals.
California launched Project Nexus to address land scarcity and water loss simultaneously.
The pilot entailed placing solar panel canopies over irrigation canals in Stanislaus County.
The system spans two canal sections. It generates 1.6 MW of clean electricity while testing narrow and wide canal spans.
By installing solar arrays over existing water canals, the project addressed land constraints.
However, it also presented other advantages.
The panels block direct sunlight, lowering water evaporation by up to 70%.
Decreased light exposure also cuts aquatic weed and algae growth by up to 85%. This saves utilities millions of dollars in yearly mechanical maintenance expenses.
Significantly, the flowing water cools the solar panels from underneath, boosting photovoltaic efficiency and output.
Furthermore, cooler water and higher water quality boost fish and native aquatic life protection.
By covering 1.6 miles of canals, Project Nexus revealed that smart solar design and layout can overcome interconnected environmental challenges.
The solar arrays can prevent up to 63 billion gallons of water evaporation annually across California’s canals.
Furthermore, the dual-purpose infrastructure also maximizes clean energy generation.
Ultimately, the innovative pilot’s results serve as a proof of concept. Soon, others will be inspired to scale deployment of solar panels on water reservoirs.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.

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An international team of researchers led by University College London (UCL) has developed a semi-transparent solar cell prototype that could be used for windows that harvest energy from both the sun and light coming from inside the building.
Described in a paper in Advanced Energy Materials, the technology could help turn buildings into power generators at all hours of the day.
“Rooftops are commonly fitted with solar panels, but the vast window areas of many modern buildings remain largely untapped as an energy resource,” said senior author Dr Mojtaba Abdi-Jalebi from the UCL Institute for Materials Discovery.
“In our study, we showed it is possible to keep the window transparent so it can let light through while maintaining the solar cells’ efficiency.”
He said the next step would be to engineer flexible solar cells for curved structures like windows on the Shard or in cars, as well as non-rigid surfaces such as clothes or backpacks.
He also wants to build bigger solar cells than the current prototypes.
“The longer-term vision is to make semi-transparent photovoltaics as easy to integrate as a window film,” Abdi-Jalebi said.
“As the technology matures, these devices could potentially be developed into flexible films that can be applied directly onto vehicle glass, sunroofs and other transparent surfaces to generate clean electricity without major structural changes.”
The solar windows let in 30% of sunlight where ordinary glass lets in 80% to 90%.
Lead author Siming Huang, a PhD student at UCL’s Institute for Materials Discovery, said: “Another advantage of this technology is that by obscuring some of the sunlight it acts in the same way as tinted windows, saving a portion of the energy required to keep the building cool.
“This is especially important in hotter areas of the world that use a high proportion of energy on air conditioning.”
The team used a light-absorbing material called perovskite, which can be adjusted to absorb indoor light’s specific wavelengths.
They used computer modelling to determine the best arrangement and thickness of perovskite layers in the cell for transparency and efficiency.
This led to a perovskite layer that was 185 nanometres thick, some 500 times thinner than a human hair. In typical solar cells, the perovskite layer is three or four times thicker.
They added a molecule – 3-trifluoromethyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole – that reduced defects in the perovskite called “traps”, which can cause electrons to get stuck before their energy can be harnessed.
This molecule also helped stabilise the perovskite crystal structure to prevent degradation over time.
The researchers also engineered a transparent electrode, the part that conducts electricity out of the cell.
In perovskite solar cells, the electrode is typically made of gold and blocks light. To make their electrode more transparent, the team sandwiched a thin layer of gold between two transparent layers of molybdenum oxide, which helped light pass through the gold by reducing reflection.
The team fabricated a 30cm x 30cm panel and found the solar cells could convert 22% of bright indoor light (1,000 lux) into electricity, as well as 14% of sunlight.
Under a standard accelerated durability test, the device retained 80% of its efficiency over 300 hours of continuous exposure to light.
The work was supported by the Henry Royce Institute for Advanced Materials. The team received funding from the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, as well as from UCL, the British Council and London South Bank University.
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The July/August 2026 issue of Construction Management magazine is now available to read in digital format.
Construction clients are not happy about contractor workmanship. Find out more in the 2026 Construction Management and CIOB client survey.

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Industry participants reported widespread cell unavailability over the past three months and warned of sharp declines in module output. One manufacturer indicated that production of solar modules could fall from three point two gigawatt (GW) to one GW as a result of the policy change. The sector had previously relied heavily on imported cells to fill the shortfall, and the sudden restriction has left many supply chains strained.
The legislation mandates that module assemblers use domestically produced cells, but local cell manufacturing capacity remains far short of demand, leaving an annual gap of about two point six GW. Before the rule, imports from China supplied over 90 per cent of the cells used by Indian module makers. While domestic module assembly capacity is substantial at 200 GW, cell manufacturing capacity stands at only 27 GW, creating a structural mismatch that has tightened prices and slowed output.
The government has set a target of 500 GW of non-hydrocarbon generation capacity by 2030, with solar accounting for 29 per cent of the total, and plans aimed to lift solar from 162 GW currently to more than 292 GW by 2030. Analysts warned that the shortfall in cell production and the shutdowns among smaller makers could jeopardise those expansion plans and delay capacity additions. Policymakers face pressure to bridge the cell capacity gap while preserving incentives for local manufacture.
India’s campaign to boost domestic solar manufacturing has encountered major disruption after a new rule requiring locally produced cells for panels led to a wave of factory closures. The measure, which came into force on June one, has caused component shortages that have forced many small and medium module makers to halt production, putting investments worth about Rs four bn at risk. Close to one third of small and medium firms have shut since the rule took effect, the segment accounting for 60 per cent of the market. Industry participants reported widespread cell unavailability over the past three months and warned of sharp declines in module output. One manufacturer indicated that production of solar modules could fall from three point two gigawatt (GW) to one GW as a result of the policy change. The sector had previously relied heavily on imported cells to fill the shortfall, and the sudden restriction has left many supply chains strained. The legislation mandates that module assemblers use domestically produced cells, but local cell manufacturing capacity remains far short of demand, leaving an annual gap of about two point six GW. Before the rule, imports from China supplied over 90 per cent of the cells used by Indian module makers. While domestic module assembly capacity is substantial at 200 GW, cell manufacturing capacity stands at only 27 GW, creating a structural mismatch that has tightened prices and slowed output. The government has set a target of 500 GW of non-hydrocarbon generation capacity by 2030, with solar accounting for 29 per cent of the total, and plans aimed to lift solar from 162 GW currently to more than 292 GW by 2030. Analysts warned that the shortfall in cell production and the shutdowns among smaller makers could jeopardise those expansion plans and delay capacity additions. Policymakers face pressure to bridge the cell capacity gap while preserving incentives for local manufacture.
Organisations modernising frontline workflows with artificial intelligence, automation and real-time data are reporting stronger financial performance, higher productivity and improved employee engagement, according to a global study by Zebra Technologies and Oxford Economics.The research covered 1,000 senior leaders across retail, manufacturing, transportation and logistics in the US, Mexico, the UK, Germany, India, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.In transportation and logistics, 54 per cent of companies that improved picking and packing operations reported faster operational performance, wh..
Indian companies lead global averages across all eight artificial intelligence readiness indicators tracked by JLL, but only 19 per cent have started making changes to their workplaces, according to the JLL 2026 Future of Work Survey.The study found that 77 per cent of Indian business leaders expect AI to change their office requirements, creating a 58-percentage-point gap between awareness and implementation. The survey covered more than 2,200 CEOs, CFOs and real estate leaders across 21 countries during the first quarter of 2026.Despite concerns over automation, 58 per cent of Indian leaders..
Three WOLFF 180 B luffing jib cranes are supporting the construction of two cable-stayed bridges alongside the existing Wadi Laban Bridge in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The project is being developed for the Royal Commission for Riyadh City and executed by the ICRC joint venture comprising IC Ictas and Al Rashid Trading & Contracting Company.The cranes are handling lifting operations including formwork, reinforcement, concrete placement, work platforms, surveying equipment and other construction materials. Each crane is fitted with a 40 m jib, reaches a hook height of 157 m and offers a maximum ..
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DT Infrastructure (DTI) awards TCL Solar landmark 720MW Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap Projects, accelerating the future of Back Contact solar tec  us.acrofan.com
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Solar project equipment storage solutions, such as temporary fabric structures, can be a critical component for project success. They are rapid, cost-effective and weather-protected to help protect valuable assets and keep projects moving. Here is a deep dive into how fabric structures can make solar installation easier and more efficient.
The country’s transition to renewable energy is progressing rapidly, with around 43.4 GW of new utility-scale solar capacity expected to be added in 2026. Rapid, large-scale deployment is essential to meet national energy targets, but it creates solar construction logistics challenges. The key to solving these challenges requires ensuring efficiency in construction projects. After all, the extra cost of installing renewable energy systems, especially without policy incentives, is a key barrier to their adoption.
The industry continues to grow through infrastructure that supports rapid deployment, efficient storage and streamlined logistics. These factors help prevent unnecessary costs associated with the construction of permanent renewable energy facilities.
Modern solar construction logistics challenges extend beyond simply delivering equipment. A typical project might involve transporting solar modules, steel trackers, torque tubes, piles, electrical equipment and transformers. Managing this volume of equipment requires thorough planning and continuous coordination.
Additionally, some equipment, such as batteries, inverters and control systems, requires a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage from temperature extremes and humidity. Insulated metal buildings can help achieve stable temperatures. 
Insulated fabric structures can address the complexity of logistics through speed, cost and equipment protection. Unlike permanent buildings, these temporary structures are specifically designed for the 12- 24 month construction phase and for providing weather protection without years of planning or excessive investment.
Traditional storage buildings often need months of logistics, from permitting to construction, before they become operational. On the other hand, temporary storage for utility-scale solar construction can be installed more quickly. This allows storage capacity to keep pace with the fast pace of construction projects. 
Constructing a permanent warehouse for the short duration of the project is usually more expensive than fabric buildings. However, the latter offers weather protection from rain, wind, UV exposure, dust and debris. The structure can also be relocated, expanded and reconfigured for future projects. Its value can be used for long-term use across many different jobsites.
A temporary storage for utility-scale solar construction provides equipment protection and enhances site safety. Covered storage reduces clutter in the laydown yard and creates designated stage zones. Crews can avoid spending a large amount of time searching for components. Heavy equipment operators can navigate a safer and clearer traffic route. A safer work environment can support the project’s progress.
Selecting the right solar project equipment storage solutions means understanding different equipment categories and their needs.
Fabric structures are best suited for durable construction materials that primarily require protection from weather and UV exposure. The equipment includes:
Solar modules
Steel trackers
Mounting racks
Torque tubes
Structural steel
Piles
Cable reels
General installation hardware
Mechanical components
Covered storage helps keep these items organized, accessible and protected without the need for sophisticated climate control.
Some equipment requires more stringent environmental control. This equipment includes battery energy storage components, power electronics, inverters, switchgear, communication equipment and control systems that may be sensitive to humidity and high and low temperatures.
Insulated metal buildings provide a stable environment necessary for protecting equipment before installation. Contractors can match the thermal performance of the systems to the project’s climate and equipment requirements. R-values measure a material’s resistance to heat. Higher R-values offer better resistance to heat transfer. Metal building insulation typically ranges in R-values from R-8 to R-30 to meet the specific climate needs of the project site. Manufacturers can vary the thickness to meet certain R-value requirements.
Success begins with seamless installation. Storage of equipment should not be considered an afterthought, but should be integrated into project planning from the earliest phases.
A comprehensive layout is crucial for the project. Best practices for solar laydown yards include:
Creating designated zones for materials
Separating inbound and outbound traffic
Maintaining wide access routes for machinery
Positioning storage near installation areas
Labeling inventory locations clearly
Scheduling deliveries appropriately
These practices prevent double-handling and congestion. Installation crews can have consistent productivity throughout the entire construction process. Additionally, ensuring efficiency contributes to a stronger investment in clean energy and lower construction costs from groundbreaking through commissioning.
Physical infrastructure is only part of the equation for modern construction logistics. Many contractors go the extra mile and supplement the temporary storage for utility-scale solar construction with digital inventory management platforms, QR code tracking, GPS-enabled equipment monitoring and real-time delivery scheduling. These technologies improve inventory accountability and reduce misplaced materials. Project managers can have better visibility into equipment availability across large jobsites.
When combined with strategically placed fabric structures, digital systems help maintain highly organized and data-driven construction operations. This ensures contractors that deadlines are met and the daily workload is more efficient.
As this infrastructure continues to grow in size and complexity, construction logistics have become a necessity in operations rather than just for competitive advantage. Fabric structures protect valuable equipment, accelerate project schedules, improve worker safety and reduce unnecessary project costs during the temporary storage phase.
When combined with effective site planning, solar laydown best practices and modern inventory technologies, these structures help contractors avoid project delays. The future of renewable energy depends on making construction practices smarter. Purpose-built facilities can enhance profitability and strengthen supply chain resilience. It also makes use of renewable energy more affordable and accessible for everyone.

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by The Observer Staff | Jul 28, 2026 | Featured
CONTRIBUTED TO
THE OBSERVER
AUBURN — CKR Solar & Storage has been recognized as the top residential solar contractor in Alabama in Solar Power World’s 2026 Top Solar Contractors rankings.
The Tampa Bay-based solar and energy storage company was also included among the nation’s leading solar and energy storage installers, reinforcing the company’s role as a regional provider of residential and commercial energy systems throughout the Southeastern United States.
Solar Power World’s annual Top Solar Contractors List ranks companies based on solar capacity installed during the previous year and organizes contractors by state, market and primary service. In the publication’s 2026 Alabama rankings, CKR Solar was the highest-ranked residential solar contractor.
The recognition establishes CKR Solar as a leading Alabama residential solar installer while highlighting the company’s work across Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana.
“This recognition confirms that CKR Solar is not simply a Florida solar company that occasionally works outside the state,” said Christopher Rollitt, founder of CKR Solar. “We have built a genuine multistate installation operation with extensive experience in Alabama and throughout the Southeast. Being identified as Alabama’s top residential solar contractor is an important accomplishment for our entire team.”
CKR Solar was also named to Solar Power World’s 2026 Top Solar + Storage Installers list. The recognition places the company among a select group of contractors with substantial experience designing and installing both solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage systems.
The company’s services include residential and commercial solar, battery backup and energy storage, Tesla Powerwall and FranklinWH systems, Qcells and Sol-Ark systems, SPAN smart electrical panels, generator and electric vehicle integration, off-grid and hybrid systems and commercial demand management.
“Solar panels are now only one component of a modern energy system,” Rollitt said. “Customers increasingly want battery backup, intelligent load management, generator integration, EV charging and the ability to control how energy moves through their property. Our position on the storage installer list reflects the technical capabilities needed to deliver those complete systems.”
Headquartered in Land O’ Lakes in the Tampa Bay region, CKR Solar has completed solar and energy storage projects across Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana. The company’s experience includes rooftop and ground-mounted solar, large residential solar-plus-storage systems, commercial installations, smart electrical panels, hurricane-resilient backup systems and complex projects involving multiple buildings, utility services or sources of backup power.
In Alabama, CKR Solar serves homeowners and businesses in Birmingham, Homewood, Hoover, Auburn, Enterprise, Dothan and surrounding communities. The company works with local building departments, electric utilities, engineers and inspectors to design systems that address Alabama’s utility rates, interconnection requirements and electrical codes.
In Florida, CKR Solar serves Tampa Bay and communities throughout the state, with particular experience in battery backup, hurricane resilience, existing-solar battery additions, SPAN smart panels and customized solar-plus-storage systems. The company’s work in Georgia and Louisiana further demonstrates that CKR Solar operates as a multistate solar and storage contractor.
CKR Solar & Storage is operated by CKRSolar LLC. The company serves residential and commercial markets and provides solar, battery storage, backup power, smart electrical panels, EV charging and energy management services. Its 2026 recognition includes being named the highest-ranked residential solar contractor in Alabama on Solar Power World’s rankings and being listed among Solar Power World’s 2026 Top Solar + Storage Installers.
“These rankings provide homeowners, businesses and industry partners with independent evidence of CKR Solar’s residential solar, battery storage and multistate installation experience,” Rollitt said.
About Solar & Storage
CKR Solar & Storage is a Florida-based, multistate solar and energy storage contractor headquartered in Land O’ Lakes near Tampa. The company designs and installs customized residential and commercial solar, battery backup, smart electrical panel, EV charging, generator-integration and energy-management systems across Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana.
The company focuses on customized system design, professional installation, energy resilience and long-term system performance. Its team works with homeowners, businesses, engineers, architects, builders, utilities and local authorities to develop energy systems tailored to each property’s electrical requirements, utility structure and backup-power objectives.
Related Solar Power World rankings include CKR Solar’s contractor profile, the 2026 Top Alabama Solar Contractors list and the 2026 Top Solar + Storage Installers list.
More information is available at http://www.CKRSolar.com.
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A solar-powered electric vehicle charging scheme for a park and ride near the M4 has been given the go-ahead by councillors.
Wokingham Borough Council said approval had been secured for the updated plans at Mereoak Park and Ride, south of Reading near junction 11, which now include a battery energy storage system and expanded charging infrastructure.
A procurement process is currently under way to appoint a contractor for the scheme, with construction expected to begin towards the end of this year.
The scheme would see solar canopies generate enough electricity annually to power more than 440 homes or provide 150,000 EV charges, with a mix of rapid and standard chargers.
The council said Mereoak Park and Ride – which offers around 600 parking spaces off the A33 and is run day-to-day by Reading Borough Council – is expected to remain open throughout construction, with work carried out in phases to minimise disruption.
It said a charging tariff has not yet been set and will be confirmed closer to the facility becoming operational.
The scheme is forecast to generate at least £400,000 in net income annually over 25 years, which will be reinvested into council services.
Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, the council's executive member for finance and governance, said: "This scheme represents a win-win for the borough and its residents, whether they use the proposed chargers or experience the broader benefits.
"It will meet a growing need for EV infrastructure while providing us with a reliable, environmentally sustainable source of revenue, making best use of our assets to support the frontline services we all rely on."
The council said opportunities for external funding and grants would continue to be explored as the project progresses.
The regulator said a fee of between £237,500 to £712,500 per megawatt should be charged for upcoming projects.
Mountaineer Alan Hinkes voices concerns over a proposed wind farm comprising 23 wind turbines.
The application for a former RAF airfield is with North Northamptonshire Council.
The facility – aiming to train and retain oil and gas workers – could be operational by 2030.
The 58 hectare (143 acre) site would sit on land between The Incline and New House Farm.
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China’s photovoltaic industry entered a broad contraction during the first half of 2026, with production falling across every major manufacturing segment and domestic installations dropping sharply from last year’s exceptional level.
Speaking at the China Photovoltaic Industry Association’s (CPIA) mid-year review and outlook conference, former secretary-general, Wang Bohua, said the industry was undergoing a “deep adjustment,” but argued that the decline in installations represented a return to a more sustainable growth pattern rather than a reversal of the long-term trend.
China produced 538,000 tonnes of polysilicon in the first six months of the year, down 9.8% year on year. Wafer output fell 7.3% to 293 GW, cell production declined 21.9% to 260.7 GW and module output dropped 35.1% to 201.3 GW.
Prices also remained under pressure. By early July, polysilicon prices were 42.3% below January levels, while wafer and cell prices had fallen 28.7% and 27.7%, respectively. Module prices were around 3% higher, partly reflecting changes to China’s export tax rebate arrangements.
New solar installations reached 72.07 GW in the first half, down about 66% from 212.21 GW in the same period of 2025. The comparison was distorted by a rush to connect projects before China introduced market-based pricing for new renewable energy projects in June 2025.
Wang said the 2026 figure remained above the average recorded during the first halves of 2021 to 2024. Monthly installations were also more evenly distributed than in the previous five years, suggesting a shift away from policy-driven deployment surges.
The association maintained its forecast of 180 GW to 240 GW of new solar capacity in China for the full year, compared with around 315 GW in 2025. Even at the upper end, 2026 would mark China’s first annual installation decline since 2019.
Exports provided a partial counterweight to the domestic slowdown. China exported $17.18 billion of wafers, cells and modules in the first half, up 24.3% year on year. Cell exports rose 36.8%, while module export volumes declined 2.5%. Africa increased its share of Chinese module exports, reflecting a gradual diversification beyond established European markets.
CPIA expects global PV additions to decline 8% to 612 GW in 2026. China’s policy transition will account for much of the contraction, while grid congestion, curtailment and negative electricity prices are slowing project development in several international markets.
The association expects global growth to resume from 2027, with annual additions reaching 864 GW by 2030, equivalent to a compound annual growth rate of around 7% from 2026.
The transition remains difficult. Most manufacturers continue to face losses, grid constraints are limiting deployment, and new demand from emerging applications may not immediately absorb existing capacity. The industry’s recovery will therefore depend on both supply-side consolidation and the development of more flexible electricity markets.
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AMPIN Solar ONE, headquartered in New Delhi, India, is a joint venture between AMPIN Energy Transition and Jupiter International Limited established to manufacture solar cells and modules in India. The company has rolled out its first solar cell, marking the commencement of manufacturing operations at Odisha’s first solar cell manufacturing unit. The milestone represents the start of production at the integrated manufacturing facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The plant was developed to manufacture high-efficiency solar cells under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. The facility supports domestic solar manufacturing and will supply Made-in-India solar cells for captive requirements as well as third-party customers.
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OCI Holdings to double polysilicon production to meet US demand  PV Tech
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India Grants Temporary Import Relief To Solar Projects Amid Module Shortages  BW Businessworld
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Australia’s cumulative rooftop solar capacity in its National Electricity Mark (NEM) increased from 25.7 GW as of the first quarter of 2026 to 26.4 GW by the end of the June quarter (Q2 2026), according to a report published by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). The total covers 3.9 million installations.
AEMO’s latest Quarterly Energy Dynamics report also shows household battery energy storage capacity across the NEM grew by almost 3.3 GWh or 41% during Q2 2026.
The report also notes 14 new grid-scale generation and storage projects totalling 3.9 GW of capacity reached full output during Q2 2026, double the previous quarterly record. This comprised 2.7 GW of battery capacity, 0.5 GW of solar-plus-battery capacity, 0.4 GW of solar capacity and 0.2 GW of wind capacity.
These supply changes lifted the renewable share of NEM generation to a new Q2 high of 42.1%, up from 37.1% in the same period last year.
Distributed PV output reached a record Q2 average of 2,520 MW, up 6.9% year-on-year, increasing its share of the energy mix to 10.3% for the quarter. Grid-scale solar generation increased by 12% to average 1,860 MW, with its share increasing to 7.6% from 6.8%, while wind output increased by 20% to 4,198 MW.
Coal generation fell 5% year-on-year to 13,158 MW, while gas-powered generation dropped 30% to its lowest Q2 average since 2003, at 1,050 MW, 30% lower than in Q2 2025.
AEMO said the record share of renewables drove average wholesale electricity prices in the NEM to their lowest June quarter average since 2020, down 47% from the same period last year to an average of AUD 74 ($51.58)/MWh.
AEMO Executive General Manager Policy and Corporate Affairs, Violette Mouchaileh, said continued investment in renewables and storage is reshaping the market. “These technologies are changing demand patterns, supporting system reliability and increasing the amount of lower-cost energy available across the market,” she said.
The same was not true for Western Australia, where the renewable share of generation declined from 33.6% to 32% for the quarter. Rooftop solar output in the Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM) increased by 3.4% but wind generation decreased by 13% due in part to lower wind speeds, while coal-fired generation fell by 17% reflecting planned and forced outages.
AEMO said these reductions increased reliance on gas-fired generation, which rose by 27%, driving average real-time wholesale electricity prices up 30% year-on-year to AUD 118/MWh.
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EU probes legality of €42m arbitration award in Romanian solar subsidy dispute  euractiv.com
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SolarAfrica has partnered with MPower, the energy platform of property investment company Moolman Group, and investment company Fledge Capital to develop a 184 MW utility-scale solar PV plant paired with a 300 MWh battery energy storage system in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
The Highveld Hybrid Energy project, located near eMalahleni, will use battery storage to hold electricity generated during the day and release it later when demand is higher. The developers say the arrangement will support wheeled renewable electricity supply from 2029, while giving customers access to cleaner power options than standard grid electricity.
No off-taker agreements are announced in the joint press statement but it is likely that the Moolman Group’s extensive retail property portfolio will form part of the project’s off-take arrangements.
The project adds to the growing number of hybrid renewable energy schemes being developed in South Africa as businesses look for more reliable and cost competitive power supply. By combining solar generation with storage, the partners aim to improve renewable energy penetration and provide greater flexibility in how electricity is used and delivered.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal






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A small band of solar panel protesters braved the rain to make known their feelings over a rise in “unfair” charges.
The Regulatory Authority’s approval of a price hike met opposition from two environmental charities — the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce and Greenrock — which together organised a demonstration march from City Hall to the RA’s Wesley Street headquarters at Craig Appin House.
Stuart Kriendler, the chief empowerment officer at Sunny Side Solar, was among the march leaders.
On a turnout of about 30 people, he said: “It doesn’t matter if there was just one person, the main thing to achieve is to show … that we have been roughed up so many times.
“The attendance was hit with the rain and also being so close to Cup Match, so we know a lot more people would be here but for the holiday. But we wanted to show our feelings and that this [increase in solar charges] is unfair.
“This is it, the last straw. The main goal is also to show the RA that people are willing to stand up and be counted. It’s wrong, it’s unfair and it’s inequitable.”
The RA’s approval of increased monthly facilities has been criticised heavily by BEST and Greenrock, which claim the rise will triple the cost for residential solar customers.
A new Belco facilities charge will place an additional monthly cost on residential customers who invested in rooftop solar after being incentivised to do so by successive governments, to reduce Bermuda’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.
The new tariff structure is due to start on August 1.
A spokesman for the authority said today that the overseer recognised “some stakeholders disagree with the outcome of the recent rate redesign decision”.
He added that the RA respected the right of individuals to express their views peacefully.
The spokesman said: “Differing perspectives are an expected part of independent regulation.
“However, the RA remains confident that its decision was reached through a robust, transparent and evidence-based process in accordance with its statutory mandate, which requires the RA to balance competing interests and act in the interest of the broader community.”
Mr Kriendler said earlier: “It was just 20 days’ notice to triple facilities.
“If it goes through … it will be an extra $100 a month which will mean $1,200 more per year.
“We know there is a big wealth gap in Bermuda with the haves and have nots. But there is also the unfair way it is being structured with residents paying the same as a massive building.
“So we have situations like the Southampton hotel would pay less a month than Mr and Mrs Bermuda on low incomes.
“This is a one-size-fits-all policy which makes no sense. We seek a graduated facilities charge based on what they [consumers] use because at the moment, this isn’t fair.”
A petition launched last week on change.org by Robbie Godfrey, the chief executive of solar energy company BeSolar, calling for an independent review of the proposed tariff changes, had more than 880 signatures by this afternoon.
Kim Smith, the executive director of BEST, said: “In my opinion this move, while they [RA] deny it is discouraging people from installing new solar panels, I cannot see it as anything else.
“It should also be a fair exchange for the energy that people generate and that you get out what you pay in.
“We really should be encouraging innovative thinking for renewable energy.”
One protester, Anne Hyde, chairwoman of the Bermuda Environment Coalition, held a home-made placard and said: “I am a residential solar panel user and this will impact us all greatly.
“We feel we’re being penalised when we should have our Government support us.”
The charities claimed that the increase “threatens Bermuda’s renewable energy future”.
Mr Godfrey said: “Bermuda is going backwards,
“The whole point of this was to say to the RA, ‘halt this, delay it and have a proper review’.
“Show us the calculations so that we can understand and appreciate this. We want transparency.”
At the steps of Craig Appin House, Mark Fields, the RA board chairman, insisted that there had been transparency at every stage of the move to increase solar charges.
He said: “It was followed thoroughly and transparently.
“The Regulatory Authority acknowledges your concerns and respects the right to raise that through the proper channels.”
The RA said that further information on its approval decision, including supporting analysis and rationale, can visit ra.bm.
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MBSB Bank Bhd has partnered with the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia (SEDA Malaysia) to fund professional solar certification for 61 members of the Asnaf community, as Malaysia’s renewable energy sector prepares for a larger expansion.
The RM146,400 zakat-funded initiative will support eligible wiremen and chargemen in completing SEDA Malaysia’s Grid-Connected Photovoltaic (GCPV) Systems for Wireman and Chargeman programme, equipping them with skills needed for solar installation, testing and commissioning work.
The participants already hold electrical qualifications issued by the Energy Commission, with the five-day programme providing additional training in grid-connected solar photovoltaic system integration, safety compliance and operational procedures. Those who complete the training and pass the competency examination will be recognised as SEDA Malaysia Qualified Person (QP), allowing them to undertake solar photovoltaic work within their professional scope.
MBSB Bank will provide RM2,400 per participant to cover course fees, learning materials, meals and certification examinations. The qualification could open pathways into skilled solar roles, with potential starting salaries estimated between RM2,800 and RM3,000 per month, while also allowing participants to take on independent or freelance solar projects.
The initiative comes as Malaysia prepares to introduce 2,650 megawatts of new solar capacity under the sixth round of the Large-Scale Solar (LSS6) programme. The expansion is expected to attract RM13 billion to RM15 billion in private investment and create between 15,000 and 20,000 jobs during the development and construction phases, increasing demand for qualified technical workers in the renewable energy sector.

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Thin Film Solar Cell Market to Reach USD 39.5 Billion by 2035 at 7.5% CAGR.  EIN News
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North American PV manufacturer CS PowerTech Inc., a subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc., recently opened the first phase of its flagship PV cell manufacturing facility at the River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville, Ind.
“We are proud to invest in Indiana’s workforce and work with regional partners to build a long-term center of excellence for solar technology and advanced manufacturing,” CS PowerTech President Rusty Schmit said July 24. 
Jeffersonville PVCells is the first American PV cell facility designed to produce industry-leading heterojunction (HJT) bifacial N-type solar cells. Together with CS PowerTech’s module manufacturing plant in Mesquite, Texas, the Jeffersonville facility creates a more localized, vertically integrated supply chain to serve its customers and to strengthen critical U.S. energy infrastructure, said the company.
“Jeffersonville is a cornerstone of our strategy to build one of North America’s most advanced energy manufacturing supply chains,” added Schmit. “This facility will produce next-generation HJT solar cells, support domestic manufacturing, and ultimately strengthen grid reliability as our customers deploy the products. 
At full capacity, the facility is expected to produce more than 6 GWp annually, support more than 1,200 skilled manufacturing, engineering, and technical jobs in southern Indiana, and represent nearly $1 billion in local investment.
“The Jeffersonville facility demonstrates our commitment to scaling one of the world’s most advanced solar cell technologies in the United States,” said Colin Parkin, CEO of Canadian Solar. “HJT technology is critical for the next generation of high-efficiency, high-performance solar modules, and this plant gives CS PowerTech the ability to deliver leading technology, improved energy yield, and long-term value for customers while strengthening domestic advanced manufacturing.”
The Jeffersonville facility will ramp production to full capacity for phase one over the next few months and CS PowerTech expects to begin work on phase two expansion before the end of the year.
“CS PowerTech’s investment strengthens Indiana’s position in advanced manufacturing, creates good-paying jobs for Hoosiers in the area, and reinforces our role in building the technologies that will continue to power America’s future,” Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said.

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India Wasted 11% of Solar Power During Record Summer Demand  Bloomberg.com
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The China Photovoltaic Industry Association (CPIA) has introduced a new group standard that establishes a unified framework for cost calculation across the country’s photovoltaic manufacturing supply chain, in a move aimed at improving pricing transparency and consistency across the sector.
The standard, titled General Principles of Cost Accounting Models for the Photovoltaic Industry, standardises cost accounting methods, calculation scopes and coefficients for polysilicon, wafers, solar cells and PV modules.
According to the association, the framework is designed to support more rational pricing across the industry while complementing existing standards governing energy consumption and production safety. The initiative comes as China’s solar manufacturing sector continues to face significant pricing pressure driven by excess production capacity and intense market competition.
China is also preparing to implement revised national energy efficiency standards covering polysilicon, monocrystalline silicon, photovoltaic modules and inverters from next year, further strengthening the regulatory framework for the country’s solar manufacturing industry.
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Solar panels. (Image Credit: The City of Cranbrook)
Council has approved external funding and drawing on reserve funds for the installation of a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the new childcare facility under development.
On Monday (July 27), Council authorized a new capital project to add a rooftop solar PV system, valued at $250,000, to the childcare facility.
It’s contingent on securing $120,000 in grant funding and approving the use of $130,000 from the Community Works Reserve.
The City has prepared a clean energy discussion paper and solar tender design package for the new childcare facility.
The proposed 114 kWDC rooftop solar system is expected to generate about 136,565 kWh of electricity in its first year, which is more than the facility’s estimated annual electricity use of about 109,318 kWh.
Results will depend on detailed design, utility approvals, how the building operates, and actual electricity demand once the facility is in use.
Council say this project is a strong candidate for grant funding because it combines an energy-efficient building with on-site renewable energy.
The solar system would support the City’s Corporate Climate Action Plan, help reduce reliance on purchased electricity, improve long-term energy cost stability, and show climate leadership at a public childcare facility.
Any extra electricity may also help offset use at Western Financial Place.
The project will move forward if the proposed $120,000 grant funding is secured.
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A research team led by scientists at Gdańsk University of Technology in Poland has developed a fabrication strategy for semitransparent perovskite solar cells (ST-PSCs) that protects the perovskite stack during indium tin oxide (ITO) sputtering. At the core of the strategy is the introduction of a solution-processed tin oxide (SnO₂) buffer layer between the phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) electron transport layer (ETL) and the sputtered rear ITO electrode.
“The main novelty of our work is the development of highly efficient and operationally stable semitransparent p-i-n perovskite solar cells designed for four-terminal perovskite/c-Si tandem devices,” corresponding author Damian Glowienka told pv magazine. “We did not focus only on achieving high initial efficiency. We combined electrode and buffer-layer optimization with optical and electrical loss analysis, tandem integration, and long-term stability testing under both indoor and outdoor ISOS protocols.”
Glowienka explained that one of their most important follow-up directions is the development of wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells for the top sub-cell. “The perovskite bandgap used in the current study was not yet optimal for tandem operation,” he added. “A wider-bandgap absorber should transmit more low-energy photons to the silicon bottom cell, which can further improve the total tandem efficiency.”
The researchers first fabricated conventional opaque p–i–n perovskite solar cells with the substrate made of glass and ITO, a hole transporting material (HTL) made of poly(triarylamine) (PTAA), the perovskite absorber, the PCBM ETL, a tin oxide (SnO2) buffer layer, a rear ITO layer and a silver (Ag) metal contact. The SnO₂ buffer layer was placed between the PCBM electron-transport layer and the sputtered ITO electrode to protect the underlying layers during room-temperature DC magnetron sputtering. Four commercial SnO₂ formulations (SnO₂-B, SnO₂-N30, SnO₂-N31, and SnO₂-T) were evaluated, while the rear ITO thickness was optimized by testing 200, 300, and 400 nm films.
The best-performing semitransparent device, using the SnO₂-N31 buffer layer and a 300 nm rear ITO electrode, was further integrated with a commercial crystalline silicon bottom cell to form a four-terminal (4T) tandem device. The tandem efficiency was analyzed by combining the efficiencies of the perovskite top cell and the filtered silicon bottom cell. Encapsulated devices were evaluated using standardized ISOS-L-1 light-soaking and ISOS-O-3 outdoor stability tests.
“The semitransparent perovskite solar cell reached a champion power conversion efficiency of 21.87%. When this device was mechanically stacked with a commercial crystalline silicon solar cell in a four-terminal configuration, the combined tandem efficiency reached 27.15%,” Glowienka said. “Another important result is the operational stability. The devices achieved a T80 of 1600 h under continuous light soaking according to the ISOS-L-1 protocol and maintained operation for more than 4000 h under outdoor ISOS-O-3 conditions. This shows that high-efficiency semitransparent perovskite devices can also be made sufficiently durable for realistic tandem-relevant testing.”
Furthermore, Glowienka added that a loss analysis showed that the main remaining limitations are not limited to the perovskite absorber itself. “Series resistance and optical losses, especially parasitic infrared absorption in the transparent electrodes, still play an important role in limiting the performance of the 4T tandem device,” he said.
“We are currently working on wide-bandgap p-i-n perovskite solar cells, while keeping the same key requirements: high transparency, low electrical losses, compatibility with transparent electrodes, and long-term operational stability. Further optimization of the transparent electrodes and reduction of parasitic near-infrared absorption will also be crucial for improving the performance of 4T perovskite/silicon tandems,” he concluded.
The new manufacturing technique was presented in “Efficient and Durable Semitransparent Perovskite Solar Cells for the Application in 4T Perovskite/c-Si Tandem Devices,” published in Progress in Photovoltaics: Research and Applications. Scientists from Poland’s Gdańsk University of Technology, the Polish Academy of Sciences, and Taiwan’s Ming Chi University of Technology have contributed to the research.

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The Rural Electrification Authority has signed a MoU for solar PV plants developed under PPP structures to supply agricultural offtakers.
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How recyclability can lower the costs of US solar panels  PV Tech
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This is according to recent data from the 2026 Ipsos Energy Transition Barometer – a global survey conducted across 31 countries – and it provides a reality check that policymakers ignore at their peril. 
As geopolitical turmoil again sends shockwaves through global oil and energy markets, driving up costs at the pump and on the grid, people worldwide are realising an inescapable truth: energy security is synonymous with economic security.
The headline figures are stark: three in four people globally are worried about rising energy costs, and half have been forced to cut back on other essentials just to keep the lights on.
This is a conversation about the immediate financial health of households and businesses. About their energy and petrol bills, this month, and next month. This is now.
For years, the energy debate has been framed through the lens of environmental necessity. That, clearly, is no longer the primary driver for the public. 
If we accept that the public’s cries are for lower prices and greater energy independence, then we must accept that the status quo of volatile, expensive, imported energy that needs to be re-imported every few days is a failure.
The Ipsos data shows that the appetite for change is stronger than many decision makers assume. 
A clear 60% of people now support energy independence. 
People have realised that relying on volatile global markets, and the geopolitical tensions that come with them, is a recipe for economic fragility. 
Anxiety regarding foreign energy dependency has spiked to 70%, driven by the immediate, concrete fear of conflict-induced energy price and supply shocks.
So, how do we deliver on the public’s demand for low prices and security? The answer, increasingly, is sitting on our roofs, in our back yards and across open spaces around our cities.
And that’s why the Global Solar Council has launched a new partnership with the Global Covenant of Mayors on Energy & Climate to turbo-charge residential rooftop solar and storage in 14,000 cities around the world.
For households and small businesses, the path to lower bills is increasingly rooftop solar and battery storage.
By generating their own power and storing it for when prices are highest, households can insulate themselves from price spikes created far away from home.  
When we advocate for the mass deployment of solar and batteries, we are not just advocating for increased generation capacity, we are advocating for the democratisation of power. For Resilience. For self-sufficiency.
We are putting the ability to slash energy bills directly into the hands of the consumer, and in a way that means they will see the benefits next month.Building reliable energy systems rooted in domestic generation instead of rollercoaster commodity markets. 
Through this lens, national roadmaps to transition away from old-fashioned energy are no longer optional green initiatives; they are the most effective economic policies available to us. 
Whether it is efficient heat pump incentives – backed by 58% of the public – or the rollout of solar and storage, people are signalling that they want off the fossil fuel treadmill. They are tired of being hostages to global energy prices that they cannot control.
Support for renewable energy and electrification is deep and broad across many of the biggest countries in Europe, Asia and the Americas. 
Governments and decision makers in these countries need to understand the depth to this shift in public opinion and acknowledging the energy transition is an economic imperative for energy security and affordability.
If we want to build a consensus that lasts, we need to start talking to people about their bills and what can be done to cut them. In countries that are democracies, and in those that aren’t.
With the economic toll of our current energy model becoming harder to ignore, the shift to clean energy is an acceleration already well underway.
The data shows us that the public is ready to embrace renewable energy, because they realise it is the smartest way to keep their lights on, their costs down, and their independence secure.
The technology is ready and the economics are compelling. It’s time for policy to catch up.
Author: Sonia Dunlop is the CEO of the Global Solar Council where she represents the world’s solar PV and battery storage industry with respect to policy-makers, standards bodies and the public.
Note on the Ipsos Energy Transition Barometer 2026 polling: The polling represents the results of a 31-country survey conducted by Ipsos of more than 46,000 adults across: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru, Poland, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Türkiye, and the United States.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own, and do not necessarily reflect those held by pv magazine.
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Heat, drought, heavy rain and late frosts are taking a toll on German farmers. They increasingly respond with adapted varieties, new crops, modern breeding techniques and modified farming methods.
For many German farmers, the heat wave in late June couldn’t have come at a worse time. While barley was already ready for harvest across much of Germany, the drought struck other crops during a particularly vulnerable stage of development.
“This year is another difficult one for farms,” Horst Gömann of Germany’s North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Agriculture told DW.
Corn has been particularly hard hit, as the extreme heat coincided with the flowering period, he said. “We’re already seeing some corn plants failing to form cobs. That, of course, essentially amounts to a total crop failure,” Gömann said.
In corn, the energy is concentrated in the cobs. If they’re missing, yields plummet dramatically.
The heat wave in June, with peak temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, hit other European growing regions even harder. According to a recent analysis by Coceral, the European association of grain traders, this reduced the value of the grain harvest in Europe by more than €2 billion ($2.3 billion), with France and Hungary suffering the greatest losses.
Due to the heat wave, Coceral lowered its expectations for grain production in the European Union and the United Kingdom by just under 9 million metric tons, a decline of 3%. The London-based research institute Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) even expects a 5% decline. Corn accounts for the largest share of the downward revision in Europe’s grain forecast, representing about half of the adjustment.
The weather also took its toll on wheat and barley. In some cases, barley was harvested several weeks earlier than usual.
According to Gömann, this year’s barley harvest is likely to be slightly below average. For wheat, he expects losses of about 10%.
Risk diversification is therefore an important adaptation strategy. Instead of growing just one kind of grain, many farms are relying on different kinds with varying maturity rates.
“You never know when such extreme heat will strike,” Gömann said. He explained that farmers who grow multiple varieties spread the risk across different stages of development.
Barley has a natural advantage in this regard. It matures earlier than wheat and often completes grain formation before the major early-summer drought sets in.
While drought threatens crops in the fields, late frost is a major concern in fruit farming. Due to climate change and mild winter temperatures, flower buds, from which the fruit will eventually develop, form earlier. However, frosty nights can occur well into spring.
Many fruit growers, therefore, protect their blossoms with frost-protection sprinklers. Water is sprayed over the blossoms, forming a layer of ice. “This traps enough heat inside so that temperatures don’t drop as low as they would without frost-protection sprinklers,” explains Gömann. These systems can also be used for irrigation during long dry spells in summer.
There are also technical solutions for combating heat. Today, hail protection nets serve more than just protection against severe weather, as they also shade the fruit and prevent sunburn.
In addition, experiments are already underway in fruit and wine growing with semi-transparent photovoltaic films. They generate electricity and protect the plants from excessive sunlight while allowing enough light to pass through.
However, while irrigation is an important tool, Gömann believes it is not always economically viable. He said vegetables, potatoes and fruit generate high returns and justify the investment. He added that for grains or corn, irrigation is not worthwhile. ”The costs are simply too high,” he said.
The water comes primarily from groundwater. Despite frequent periods of drought, Germany is not a water-scarce country. “We basically still have enough water in Germany,” the Gömann emphasized. The problem, he said, is rather the uneven distribution. Heavy rainfall occurs in winter, while dry spells are becoming more frequent in summer.
Plant breeding plays a central role. Varieties whose genetic origins lie in warmer regions of Europe are already being cultivated in North Rhine-Westphalia.
“With wheat, for example, we’re already making extensive use of genetics from France,” said Gömann. The climatic conditions there have, in some respects, already shifted to Germany.
Grains with shorter stalks, known as semi-dwarfs, have been around for many years. Short stalks can bear significantly heavier ears, are less likely to snap during heavy rain, hail, or wind and require less water. 
In addition, research is being conducted on wheat varieties with deeper roots. Current research at the German Julius Kühn Institute, the Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, aims to develop wheat whose roots respond dynamically to drought by growing deeper only when water becomes scarce in the topsoil.
The agricultural sector is also experimenting with new crops. Soybeans are now being grown in parts of Germany, albeit on a very small scale. Experiments are even being conducted with millet, a crop known from arid regions around the world, also only on a very small scale. Even winegrowing is slowly expanding further north, which is a visible sign of the shifting vegetation zones.
For Gömann, the condition of the soil is at least as important as new crop varieties. He said it is crucial to avoid soil compaction so that roots can penetrate deep into the ground.
Farmers have always had to adapt to changing conditions, said Gömann. What’s new, however, is the pace. While climate change used to take place over generations, now it is noticeable within just a few decades.
“The whole thing is happening quite quickly now,” he said.
At the same time, modern agriculture has significantly better options than previous generations. New varieties are developed within a few years, and international breeding companies are continuously working on plants that are more tolerant of drought and heat.
For the agricultural expert, one thing is certain: the increase in extreme weather conditions in the past years is no coincidence. He sees the severe droughts of 2018 and 2019, as well as the recent heat waves, as part of a trend.
“This can certainly be attributed to the emerging climate change,” Gömann told DW.
Agriculture must therefore continue to adapt, just as it has done for centuries, he noted, adding that it must do so much faster than before.
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Bhutan’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources has launched a tender for the development of three grid-tied rooftop solar photovoltaic systems to be built at three different schools.
The chosen developer will be responsible for the engineering, design, supply, transportation, installation, testing, commissioning and remote monitoring of the solar plants. The work is expected to be completed within eight months.
The bidding documents, available for free via the ministry’s website, list indicative capacities of 158.4 kW, 144.1 kW and 381.7 kW for each of the solar plants following preliminary site assessments. The final system capacity will be determined by the successful bidder.
The tender is open to both domestic and international applicants. The deadline to submit bids is August 24.
This latest tender in Bhutan follows opportunities to develop rooftop solar at 73 public healthcare facilities and a nationwide call for the construction of unsolicited solar projects on a build-own-operate basis.
In July, the Asian Development Bank approved a $160 million loan to go towards a solar expansion project in Bhutan covering 310 MW of solar.
Bhutan’s cumulative solar capacity stood at 21 MW by the end of 2025, up from 3 MW at the end of 2024, according to figures published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The increase follows the commissioning of its first utility-scale solar plant, a 17.38 MW array, in mid-2025. 
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Leading vertically integrated PV manufacturer LONGi has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with logistics giant DHL Group to jointly develop global solar and energy storage markets. The partnership combines LONGi’s high-efficiency PV, battery energy storage system (BESS), and green hydrogen technologies with DHL’s global logistics network to support the decarbonization of logistics infrastructure.
Under the agreement, the companies will deploy LONGi’s building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) across DHL’s logistics parks and office facilities in Europe while jointly developing integrated PV-plus-storage solutions for logistics hubs. DHL will also serve as a testing platform for LONGi’s latest solar and storage technologies, supported by a regular communication mechanism to coordinate project implementation.
On the financial performance side, LONGi recently revealed that it expects an adjusted net loss of RMB 3.7 billion and RMB 4.2 billion for H1 2026 (see China Solar PV News Snippets).
China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has released a position paper on the ‘so-called excess capacity’ issue, stating that global capacity changes reflect international industrial division and market cycles rather than permanent overcapacity.
The ministry said export growth in industries such as photovoltaics, new energy vehicles, and lithium-ion batteries has been driven by economies of scale, technological innovation, and growing global demand for clean energy. It added that the competitiveness of China’s new energy industries stems from long-term R&D investment and technological progress rather than government subsidies.
MOFCOM also called for greater international cooperation on industrial and supply chains, urging countries to respect market rules and reduce trade barriers. Separately, ministry official Weilong Lin said the U.S. Section 301 investigation into overcapacity was a unilateral action and urged the U.S. to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation.
Perovskite solar manufacturer SolaEon said its crowdfunding campaign for a perovskite-powered smart lock has exceeded $500,000 on Kickstarter.
Developed with a subsidiary of smart-lock manufacturer Dessmann, the DESLOC V150 Plus integrates a 4.8-inch perovskite module capable of charging under ambient light as low as 300 lux. The company said the module delivers around six times the power generation efficiency of crystalline silicon under low-light conditions and added that it now supplies perovskite power solutions to brands including Lenovo, Anker Innovations, and Midea Group for smart locks, security cameras, and other IoT devices.
A research team led by Jilin Hesheng Technology, in collaboration with Jilin University and several aerospace institutes, has completed what it calls the world’s first in-orbit verification of perovskite X/γ-ray detectors.
Launched aboard the Gande-1 01 satellite on July 24, the payload integrates perovskite radiation detectors with perovskite solar cell testing modules. According to local media, the mission verified the performance of both technologies in the space environment after completing vibration and thermal vacuum qualification tests before launch. The research team plans to continue orbital testing to support future applications in medical imaging and industrial inspection.
State-owned energy developer SPIC has exported 3,750 tons of green ammonia to South Korea, which the company said is the world’s largest single-batch shipment of green ammonia.
The cargo was produced at the HYGLOBAL Da’an Green Hydrogen-Ammonia Integration Demonstration Project, which began operating in July 2024 with 800 MW of renewable energy capacity. The project targets an annual production of 32,000 tons of green hydrogen and 180,000 tons of green ammonia using an integrated renewable power-to-hydrogen-to-ammonia process featuring electrolysis equipment from LONGi and Sungrow.
SPIC said the facility has obtained ISCC EU certification under the EU RED III framework and that the shipment is expected to reduce lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions by more than 10,000 tons.
TaiyangNews 2024

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Serving the industrial lifting market since 2001
The system is intended to support assembly and maintenance operations within a high-voltage power substation.
China-based Henan Clescrane System (Clescrane) has completed the delivery and commissioning of a 5t double girder overhead crane for a Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) room at the Saudi solar photovoltaic (PV) project.
The system is intended to support assembly and maintenance operations within a high-voltage power substation associated with the energy project.
The company stated that all stages of the project, from engineering design and manufacturing to inspection, testing, and final commissioning, were carried out to ensure the crane’s safe and reliable performance.
Clescrane specified that the equipment supplied meets standards set by the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA).
The company said: “The successful completion of this project demonstrates Clescrane’s commitment to delivering high-quality crane solutions for critical energy infrastructure projects worldwide.”
The GIS room crane solution involves overhead lifting equipment designed with a focus on high safety for use in environments in Saudi Arabia.
These systems enable the movement of heavy equipment during assembly and routine maintenance inside the stations.
Clescrane operates through three entities, with its core business focused on product design and software development.
According to the company, GBCRANES acts as its manufacturing arm, undertaking product assembly, testing, inspection, storage, and packaging. The manufacturing facility is designated with a Class B qualification for cranes under 200t.
INAMAR, another associated company, provides project management and resource integration for Clescrane’s operations.
The company describes its approach as an asset-light and high-efficiency business model, aimed at supporting steady long-term development.
Earlier this month, CLESCRANE held a technical exchange with SICK, an automation technology company. The meeting centred on a fully automated overhead crane project planned for Europe.
In May 2025, Clescrane supplied six overhead cranes to Ghana Engineering and Construction Company, including three single-girder cranes and three double-girder cranes.
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GREW Solar showcased its utility-focused G12R and residential-focused All Black series modules for Europe 
The utility module is rated for 635 W power output and 23.51% efficiency 
The residential module offers a full-black appearance and can deliver up to 22.08% efficiency 
GREW Solar, an India-based PV module maker, showcased its TOPCon products for the European market at Intersolar Europe 2026. 
The company promoted its G12R series module for the utility segment. It comprises 132 G12R-size TOPCon half-cut cells and has a rated maximum power of 635 W and efficiency of 23.51%. Its cell matrix, along with front and rear encapsulants, is laminated with front and rear glass. The laminate is then enclosed with aluminum frames. The company offers a 15-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty on this module. 
The company pitched its All Black module for the residential segment. This bifacial glass-to-backsheet module uses a black-patterned backsheet and black aluminum frames. This gives the cell-to-cell and string-to-string gaps and creepage distances a black appearance. Together with black cells and frames that further enhance the black appearance, this module becomes a visually appealing full-black product. In terms of performance, this module has a rated conversion efficiency of up to 22.8% and a temperature coefficient of -0.28%/°C. Given the TOPCon cell’s good low-light performance, the module can achieve power gains even at dawn, dusk, and in overcast conditions compared to modules based on competitive cell technologies. The company added that this underlying weather pattern matches Germany’s overcast winter seasons. This module is backed by a linear power performance warranty of up to 25 years. 
The company noted that it has a 6.5 GW PV module manufacturing facility in Rajasthan and a 3.5 GW cell manufacturing facility in Madhya Pradesh, India. It has also been allocated 1,000 MW of capacity under the Government of India’s performance-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. According to this scheme, the company must set up vertically integrated (ingot + cell + module) 1 GW domestic facilities to be eligible for the federal Government-backed subsidies, which will be disbursed for up to 5 years. Its existing facilities, with in-house testing infrastructure and process control systems, are certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 standards. The company expects these capabilities might meet Europe’s supply chain diversification initiatives, with India among the markets positioned to benefit. 
TaiyangNews 2024

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