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Accelerating Clean Energy Deployment in South Africa: Sineng Electric Powers 120 MW Doornhoek PV Solar Project  SolarQuarter
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FILE – Mark Munyua, CP solar’s technician, examines solar panels on the roof of a company in Nairobi, Kenya, Sept. 1, 2023.
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With policy certainty, innovative financing, accelerated manufacturing, and modernised grids, India can deliver clean, affordable, and home-grown energy at scale.
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‘Wealth of opportunities’: Solar cell manufacturer to bring 500+ new jobs to Upstate  WSPA 7NEWS
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The MSE team, which Martin Lews founded, has urged some homes to see if they could benefit from solar panels (Image: Martin Lewis/X)
The Money Saving Expert (MSE) team has warned people that energy prices are predicted to rise after this month. But some homes may be able to slash their bills.
In an update at the start of the month, MSE explains: "On 1 April, the Energy Price Cap fell by 6.7%, meaning a household with typical usage paying by Direct Debit will pay £1,641 a year. The drop in April is largely due the Autumn Budget, when the Government announced it would cut household energy bills by '£150' a year.
"However, from July, analysts are predicting the Price Cap will rise significantly, due to the recent conflict in the Middle East. Plus wholesale costs remain high and network costs are predicted to rise over the next five years."
Martin Lewis is the founder of MSE(Image: ITV)
To help keep bills as low as possible, homes with solar panels are being urged to use them. MSE say that there are "more than 1.6 million homes across the UK with solar panels."
It adds: "As well as saving you money on energy bills, solar panels can earn you cash. And don't worry, they can still generate electricity on gloomy days, vital when the weather's as dull as dishwater."
Updated April 13, 2026, its guidance encourages households that already have them to make use of them as soon as possible. But if you don't have them, it may not be worth it.
Solar panels convert the sun's energy into electricity. Inside solar panels – also known as photovoltaics (PV) – are tiny particles called electrons that move when sunlight hits them.
This movement creates an electric current, which is then turned into usable power. Electricity flows through wires to power your devices, lights, and even charge an electric vehicle. Any extra energy can be sent back to the grid, and you may get paid for it.
MSE stresses that solar panels "give a number of benefits". And you may not know them all.
Solar panels may not be suitable for every home(Image: Getty)
Not always. MSE cautions anyone thinking of getting them to "always check the maths first, to make sure you can recoup the cost of getting them installed." It notes that while there are many benefits to installing solar panels, it doesn't mean you should rush out to get them.
MSE urges people considering solar panels to be wary of scam ads that offer cheap installation or maintenance. It notes that there have been many reports of fake emails and websites.
It explains: "We've heard numerous reports of scam emails and websites offering cheap solar panel installation and free health checks, so do be careful.
"It's important you do your research and use a reputable company before getting solar panels fitted and once you've got them, don't fall for ads trying to sell you solar panel servicing or cleaning."
You can find out more about solar panels and how to get paid top rates for electricity you export online via the MoneySavingExpert website.
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The 2026 China ESG Gala, hosted by China Media Group, aired on the CCTV Finance Channel, bringing together leading voices in sustainability and corporate environmental, social and governance practice. Among the recognised participants, LONGi, identified as a China ESG Model Enterprise and Breakthrough Enterprise of the Year, used the platform to present its vision for technological innovation as a driver of global energy equity.
Founder and Chief Technology Officer Li Zhenguo took the stage carrying the gala signature Token of Native Land, a self developed Back Contact solar cell product from LONGi. He used the component as a physical representation of the company’s approach to innovation, linking product development to broader questions of sustainable development and equitable access to energy.
Related news: Powered by LONGi HPBC 2.0 cell technology, redefining a new era of photovoltaic value – the HiMO X10
Li stated that LONGi has consistently held the view that technological innovation is central to achieving energy equity. He outlined several international initiatives in which the company has deployed photovoltaic solutions to support underserved communities. In Brazil, LONGi has applied distributed solar systems to support residents in lower income communities, including displaced Indigenous populations, while also providing technical training aimed at improving long term livelihood opportunities through skills development in renewable energy.
In Malawi, LONGi’s solar solutions have been deployed to improve access to affordable electricity in rural areas, enabling children to study under electric lighting and improving educational conditions in off grid communities. Li noted that across different regions, the company seeks to ensure that clean energy access is accompanied by capacity building, reinforcing a broader model of sustainable development rather than simple infrastructure delivery.
He emphasised that Chinese solar enterprises are contributing not only clean electricity but also development opportunities, framing this as part of a long term global sustainability contribution.
During the presentation, Li used the Back Contact solar cell as a demonstration of the embedded environmental value of advanced photovoltaic manufacturing. He explained that producing a single cell from raw ore through polysilicon processing, ingot formation, wafer slicing, and final module assembly requires approximately two kilowatt hours of electricity. Over a 30 year lifecycle, the same module can generate about 235 kilowatt hours of electricity, representing more than a hundredfold energy output gain over its production input.
He further highlighted the system level implications of efficiency improvements. According to Li, Back Contact technology delivers 5% to 6% higher conversion efficiency compared to standard products. When applied at scale across China’s installed solar base of around 1 terawatt, this improvement could reduce land requirements by approximately 1,000 square kilometres. At a projected global transition scale of at least 10 terawatts of modules, the potential land saving could reach around 10,000 square kilometres, underscoring the strategic importance of efficiency gains in land constrained energy systems.
Li also addressed increasing competition within the global solar industry, noting that rapid technological iteration has intensified market pressure and driven what he described as hyper competition. He argued that sustainable competitiveness requires not only the ability to innovate but also the ability to protect and sustain innovation outcomes over time.
He described LONGi’s approach as building innovation that is both achievable and defensible, supported by a structured set of competitive barriers. These include strategic intellectual property deployment through patents, collaborative innovation with key suppliers secured through exclusive arrangements, confidential process design within production systems to protect core manufacturing knowledge, and targeted retention and care of technical talent to maintain institutional capability.
Li added that stronger regulatory alignment within the industry, combined with continued innovation under ESG principles, will help the sector move beyond excessive price driven competition towards a more sustainable growth model.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal

 






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Cyber threats involving compromised login details present a significant danger to photovoltaic systems, according to an analysis by pv magazine. These attacks enable unauthorized actors to infiltrate systems that depend on secure access for control and oversight.
Adversaries obtain legitimate usernames and passwords through methods like phishing campaigns or systematic guessing. This approach differs from attacks that aim to disable systems, as it allows impersonation of authorized users, often bypassing conventional security measures. Operators may remain unaware that such access has been achieved.
Targets within solar infrastructure include remote monitoring platforms, interfaces for managing inverters, gateways, and supervisory control systems. After gaining entry, attackers can change system configurations, deactivate protective measures, adjust power generation parameters, or disrupt communications. In certain instances, they establish long-term presence without discovery.
Such intrusions can result in operational instability, diminished energy output, and heightened safety concerns. They may also place physical stress on equipment like inverters by altering control settings or slowing responses to faults, potentially increasing maintenance expenses.
Common techniques focus on personnel with system access, using deceptive emails or scans for exposed login portals. Exploiting reused passwords, absent multi-factor authentication, and insecure remote access points are frequent vectors in distributed solar fleets.
Potential defensive measures include implementing robust authentication like multi-factor verification, enforcing strict password rules, and preventing credential reuse. Identity and access management systems can limit permissions based on user roles. Monitoring login activity for anomalies and segmenting networks to isolate critical components are also noted as risk-reduction strategies. Intrusion detection systems and security event platforms may identify suspicious behavior patterns. Training personnel to recognize phishing attempts is considered an essential layer of protection.
In summary, these attacks primarily threaten system integrity and control, allowing manipulation while avoiding detection. A combination of authentication controls, access management, continuous monitoring, and user education is viewed as necessary to secure operations and limit an attacker’s ability to maintain or expand access.
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Solar panel sales have risen sharply in Ireland since the start of the Iran war as householders seek protection from volatile energy prices.
Solar Ireland — the industry body for the country’s solar sector — is reporting a surge in demand for installations as households grapple with rising energy costs, just a few years after the Ukraine war triggered a similar spike.
“We’ve seen a huge uplift in inquiries and interest — as much as 100 per cent uplift in online traffic,” Ronan Power, the Solar Ireland chief executive, said.
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The shift is no longer just in interest — he says households are now acting quickly to install solar.
“The numbers are showing us about a 27 per cent increase in people committing in under seven days since the Iran war began,” he said.
“That’s people making a commitment to have solar installed, which is a real yardstick that they are looking for a longer-term solution.”
Ireland is one of the most exposed countries in Europe to energy shocks due to its reliance on gas.
Data from European regulators shows Ireland has one of the highest shares of fossil fuels in electricity generation in the EU.
The latest fuel crisis comes just a few years after the Ukraine war triggered a similar spike in energy prices across Europe.
“We had the launch of the war in Ukraine, which is not that long ago, and power prices absolutely exploded,” Power said.
“This one has shown that we are susceptible to these type of macro events, and we really do feel them because of where we’re located  geographically.”
The trend is now towards households becoming their own power generators and moving away from the vagaries of global fossil fuel prices.
“The sense is that people are starting to go, ‘OK, I’m now going to invest to protect myself against probably another one’.”
Ireland’s solar capacity has trebled since 2023, according to Solar Ireland.
“The total installed capacity is 177,000 homes so far, and we run at a rate of in and around 35,000 a year,” Power said.
He added that the current rise in sales of about 27 per cent could translate into a few thousand homes this year if the demand is sustained.
Power said solar power — which can be installed within weeks — could deliver immediate savings for householders by generating at least half of their own electricity.
“With a battery installed, a typical house could see a reduction of 50 to 65 per cent in their annual grid consumption.
“If your system was turned on at 11 in the morning, you would use less electricity that day.”
While there are many cost variables, he said a standard system for a semi-detached house would cost between €8,000 and €10,000.
“The grants are now capped at €1,800,” he said.
The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment said the energy crisis caused by the conflict in the Middle East again highlighted the benefits and importance of home energy upgrades.
It added that a record €640 million had been allocated in the budget to deliver 73,000 home energy upgrades, as part of more than €1.6 billion in supports provided since 2019.
“In fact, a rooftop revolution is under way across Ireland — 155,000 homes have received grants to install rooftop solar, and free solar panels have been provided to 2,000 schools across Ireland,” the department said.
It added: “This reduces energy bills. Where excess energy is produced, it can be sold into the grid under microgeneration.”
At international level, Sonia Dunlop, chief executive of the Global Solar Council, a trade body, said the Iran war was a powerful reminder that countries dependent on fossil fuel imports were vulnerable. 
“Solar and storage aren’t just a climate solution — they’re an insurance policy. The countries that invested early are now watching their energy bills stay stable while others scramble,” she said.
Amid a volatile energy market, Power said more frequent price shocks highlighted the need for longer-term supports to help those on the energy poverty line.
“If you look at the energy poverty line and the statistics around that, solar is a great example of something that could really help alleviate some of those pressures.
“If you look at the emergency energy package that was announced a few weeks ago, an allocation of that into residential solar grant support would be very effective.”
Power noted that people who might need solar the most to offset rising energy bills might not be able to afford the initial cost or even raise a loan.
“If your cost of energy is shrinking disposable household income, you may be uninclined to take on another bill. It would be a risk.”
He said a recent study by University College Cork found about one million homes in Ireland would be capable of having a solar installation.
“If you were to look at it that way, we’re only about 17 per cent of the way through to the rollout,” he said.
“The more we can do here in Ireland and generate here at home, the more resilient we become.”
Ireland has made some of the fastest progress in electrification in Europe and is on track to become an energy exporter as a wave of offshore wind projects come on stream in the coming decade.
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Governor Abigail Spanberger signed a legislative package releasing 525 MW of new capacity and establishing a statewide automated permitting platform.
Virginia State Capitol
Image: Martin Kraft, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wiki commons
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed a comprehensive slate of clean energy bills aimed at lowering electricity costs, which have risen roughly 30% across the state since 2021.
Included in the package are SB 254 and HB 807, which significantly expand the state’s shared solar program. The program had previously reached its 200 MW cap in Dominion Energy territory.
The legislation marks a shift in Virginia’s approach to distributed generation, moving away from restrictive caps and toward a model that prioritizes rapid deployment to meet surging load growth from the state’s data center corridor.
New legislation includes:
The new legislation establishes a predictable framework for future expansion overseen by the State Corporation Commission (SCC). For the first time, Appalachian Power (APCo) customers in Southwest Virginia will also gain access to a formalized shared solar program with consolidated billing.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) said these distributed resources are critical for stabilizing a grid currently stressed by surging data center demand.
“It is no secret that Virginia needs more home-grown energy supply to meet skyrocketing demand and protect ratepayers,” said Darren Van’t Hof, president and chief executive officer, SEIA. “Virginia’s leaders are addressing these challenges with a well-rounded strategy that will cut bureaucratic red tape, take advantage of existing energy resources to strengthen grid reliability at minimal cost to ratepayers, and encourage investment in power sources tailor-made for this moment.”
Beyond community-scale projects, the package tackles residential “soft costs” by authorizing a statewide automated permitting platform similar to SolarAPP+. According to industry data, administrative red tape and inconsistent local permitting can account for nearly 80% of the total cost of a U.S. residential solar installation. By standardizing these processes, the state aims to drive down the cost of rooftop arrays and home batteries.
The legislative push also includes HB 683, which creates the Solar Interconnection Grant Program. This initiative provides financial assistance to schools and municipal buildings looking to install solar arrays to offset public utility expenses.
Third-party analysis suggests that expanding Virginia’s shared solar capacity to 2 GW could generate more than $2.4 billion in net benefits over 25 years. These savings are expected to accrue to all utility customers, not just subscribers, by reducing the need for high-voltage transmission upgrades and peak-period generation.
Virginia currently has over 4,500 MW of solar installed, ranking 9th in the nation for total capacity. The industry supports more than 5,000 jobs and has invested $5.2 billion in the state to date. The new 525 MW allocation is expected to provide enough clean energy to power approximately 90,000 additional homes.
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Germany could break the gigawatt-hour mark for the first time on a monthly basis. Around 45,000 new residential photovoltaic storage systems have been registered in the market master data register so far in March.
Image: Energy-Charts
From pv magazine Germany
The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (Fraunhofer ISE) runs Energy-Charts, which presents easily digestible data from Germany’s Market Master Data Register. This is the official system where storage assets are registered, ranging from utility-scale battery installations to commercial and residential systems, including small balcony solar power plants and plug-in storage devices.
Energy-Charts shows that in March 2026, battery storage systems with a total capacity of 522.9 MW and 985.9 MWh were added. New systems can be added into the Data Register some weeks after they were installed, so the figures will increase in the coming days, and therefore likely to exceed the full 1 GWh mark for the first time.
Regardless of the final figure, this is the highest monthly increase in battery storage capacity in Germany to date.
The “Battery Charts” from RWTH Aachen University also allow users to filter growth by segment, with most coming at the big and small end. The cumulative installed capacity of residential storage systems increased from 20.43 to 20.75 GWh compared to February. Commercial storage systems saw an increase from 1.39 to 1.42 GWh, and large-scale storage systems from 4.46 to 5.06 GWh. With just 30 MWh added in commercial, the bulk of the work is being done by residential enthusiasm for money saving and energy security, and large-scale plants backed by investors.
The image below shows the growth in connections – note February 2026 was a slower month likely due to severe winter weather conditions.
The installed capacity across all segments thus reached 27.23 GWh at the end of March. The total capacity of battery storage systems amounted to 17.90 GW, according to the Battery Charts. By the end of March, more than 2.4 million battery storage systems had been registered in the market master data register. The majority of these are residential photovoltaic storage systems, of which approximately 45,000 were added in March alone, according to the latest figures. At least 30 new large-scale storage systems were also registered in March, bringing their total number to 489.
Earlier, in terms of new solar PV generation, Germany’s Federal Network Agency published what it calls its expectations for systems in March. Solar PV generation showed an addition of 1.4 GW, a significant increase compared to the previous month, with more than half of the newly installed capacity coming from ground-mounted systems.
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New S.C. Facility to Boost Suniva’s US Solar Cell Production to 5.5GW Annually  Thomasnet
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Will County Board Votes Yes On Multiple Solar Projects  1340 WJOL
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MUNCIE, IN — Residents can learn how agriculture and solar energy can work together during an Earth Day program planned by the League of Women Voters of Muncie-Delaware County.
The event, titled “Sustainable Land Management on Ground Mounted Solar Projects,” is scheduled for 2 p.m. April 25 at the Kennedy Branch Library, according to a community announcement.
The program is free and open to the public.
The featured speaker will be Breanna Reed, owner and operator of Bee-Ewe-tiful Farms in Walkerton, Indiana. Reed specializes in managing sheep on solar fields and is an advocate for dual-use solar at both local and state levels.
In 2023, Reed attended a solar grazing workshop hosted by the Indiana Sheep Association. She later connected with local solar array operators who needed vegetation management and began contracting her sheep to graze under solar panels instead of traditional mowing. Reed says this cooperative relationship has saved her family farm.
Reed is a member of the American Solar Grazing Association, Indiana Farmers Union and serves as a board member for the Indiana Sheep Association. She participated in the German Aspen Institute’s 2025 policy forum on renewable energy and agriculture and attended the 2025 Lamb Summit hosted by the American Lamb Board in Idaho.
This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

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Partly cloudy and windy this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..
Partly cloudy and windy this evening then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds S at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
Updated: April 16, 2026 @ 7:00 pm

Public hearing for solar farm upcoming
A public hearing is scheduled on a proposed utility-scale solar farm in rural Sedgwick County.
On April 29 at 9 a.m., the Wichita-Sedgwick County Metropolitan Area Planning Commission will consider Mission Clean Energy’s proposed solar farm, dubbed the Galena Project. It is planned for land between Hoover Road and 119th Street West, from 47th Street South to 63rd Street South, between Haysville, Schulte and near southwest Wichita. The project would span about 1,490 acres of private property, including 962 fenced acres, and produce up to 260 megawatts of electricity. If approved, construction could begin in late 2027 or early 2028.
The hearing will be held at the Ronald Reagan Building (271 W. 3rd St.) in Wichita. Citizens wanting to speak on the matter are not required to sign up in advance. Contact planning@wichita.gov for more information.
 
Cody Friesen is the sports editor for the Derby Informer. Contact him with sports tips at sports@derbyinformer.com, and follow @Derby_Sports on Twitter for the latest updates. 

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Plug-in solar panels.
Since the re-election of Donald Trump as the American president in November 2024, it has become easy to grow very despondent about the future of humanity and its struggle with the growing climate crisis.  The Trump administration has done much to block new renewable energy projectsin the United States and along with the other two large petro-states, Russia and Saudi Arabia, in what has been described as the axis of obstruction, they did much to stop meaningful progress on combating climate change at COP 30 in November of last year.
However, that is thankfully not the full story. Climate activist Bill McKibben, founder of the climate organisation 350.org and author of the book Here Comes the Sun, about how solar energy can still do too much to mitigate the worst effects of climate change, has stated that solar energy is still very much on the rise throughout the world.
Speaking on Democracy Now in 2025, McKibben noted: “This is as dark a moment as there’s ever been in our democracy and our planet is overheating fast. In the midst of that, there is this one big, good thing simultaneously happening and is so big and so good that it might help with both the climate and the authoritarianism crisis and that’s this rise in the last 36 months, a pretty untold story of just extraordinary amounts of clean energy surging into the world’s energy system.
“It is centred in China and the numbers are staggering … the last month we have data for is May (2025), the Chinese were putting up 3 gigawatts of solar panels a day, a gigawatt being the rough equivalent of a coal-fired power plant. They’re putting up one of those made out of solar panels every eight hours.
“California, which has done more than any place in this country, reached some kind of tipping point in the last 18 months. Most days now California supplies more than 100% of its electricity from renewable energy. For long stretches at night, the biggest source of supply on its grid is batteries that have been soaking up excess sunshine all afternoon. The bottom-line California. The fourth largest economy in the world is using 40% less natural gas to produce electricity than they were two years ago. That’s the kind of number that may be the most optimistic things that that I’ve heard in the 40 years I’ve been working on the climate crisis. It’s the kind of number that begins to shave tenths of a degree off how hot the world eventually gets and remember every 10th of a degree means 100 million people moving from a safe climate zone to a dangerous one.  It’s not that we’re going to stop global warming; it’s too late for that. It’s that we have really a chance to reboot the way the world and its economy and its geopolitics works right now”.
Reflecting on the huge potential of solar power, McKibben commented: “It’s really important to understand that as of about four years ago we live on a planet where the cheapest way to produce energy is to deploy a sheet of glass at the sun and China has been leading that effort we know about”.
It is within this context of the rising use of solar energy, despite the obstructionist efforts of the United States, Russia and Saudi Arabia, that the government has just made an important and hopeful announcement.
In late March, the government announced that ‘plug-in’ solar panels will be in shops within months, giving households the opportunity to significantly cut energy bills
The move is said to come as government responds to the war in Iran by stepping up the drive for clean homegrown power to get the UK off dependency on fossil fuel markets.
Consequently, new rules introduced on 24 March are set to ensure that most new homes in England will come with solar panels fitted as standard.
This is coupled with an inventive new approach, seeing discounted power on windy days in areas where wind farms are paid to switch off to avoid ‘wasted wind’, predominantly benefiting the East of England and Scotland.
More households will be helped to save money on bills through plug-in solar panels as the government vows to go further and faster on clean energy in response to conflict in the Middle East.
The government also noted that, “retailers like Lidl and Iceland, alongside manufacturers such as EcoFlow, are working with government to enable them to be brought to the UK market.
“Plug-in solar is already widely used by households across Europe, with Germany seeing around half a million new devices plugged in per year.  
“The free solar power can be used directly through a mains socket like any other device, without an installation cost, thereby reducing the amount of electricity taken from the grid and cutting energy bills”.
It is hoped that many households across the country will save a lot of money on their energy bills, through using this easy-to-install technology while it will also help make our country less reliant on global fossil fuel markets.
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Georgina Hall, Corporate Affairs Director at Lidl GB said:
“At Lidl GB, we are committed to making sustainable living affordable for everyone and we welcome the government’s move to modernise regulations in the UK”.
Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, said:
“People want to be free of these fossil fuel crises – since the conflict in the Middle East began, interest in solar has shot up 50%, heat pump and electric cars are also seeing surges.
“Every solar panel, heat pump and battery cut bills  boosts Britain’s energy independence. And the government’s latest steps can help cut the costs of electrification”.
Chris Norbury, Chief Executive of E.ON UK said:
“Cutting red tape on plug-in solar is an encouraging move and we will help ensure it works alongside, or as part of, whole-home solutions that genuinely empower people to take control of their energy use and cut bills.
“At E.ON Next, we’re already seeing how powerful that shift can be. Whether it’s giving customers more control through innovative time of use tariffs or helping people get income from generating and storing energy at home via steerable assets, the direction is clear: simplicity, transparency and providing real financial rewards for doing the right thing”.
This is both a positive and very interesting initiative from the government. It is one of the most positive things that they have done since coming to power in July 2024 and seems to back up speculation that energy minister Ed Miliband has grown in influence and power within the cabinet.
It also shows a change of tactic from the Labour government in terms of dealing with its alarming decline in the polls.  Instead of aping Reform UK, here we see the Labour government addressing the issues that are of concern to their many voters who have drifted away to the Greens.
The initiative also shows that getting to Net Zero is not an expensive venture for our country but rather can save ordinary customers a lot of money on their energy bills. Given the events of the last six weeks in Iran and particularly the Straits of Hormuz, it seems sensible for the UK to rely as little as possible on the international fossil fuel markets and to develop our own renewable energy sources.
As Bill McKibben says, solar and other renewable energy is the future, and it is important that the UK get involved as much as they can.
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Peter is a teacher, writer and historian who has also been active in human rights work for 35 years. He is particularly interested in how our great human rights history in the North East can help us to be both inspired and enlightened and enable us to face up to the challenges we face today. These challenges include defending the human rights of all people in the region and the country and dealing with the existential crisis that is climate change
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A significant portion of the British public is showing increased interest in home energy solutions such as solar panels, insulation and heat pumps, driven by concerns over rising costs and what many are labelling a “Trump tax”.
Polling suggests that a third of adults are now more inclined towards these installations following the recent conflict in Iran.
However, the survey, conducted by Survation for the End Fuel Poverty Coalition among over 2,000 adults, revealed a major hurdle: 60 per cent believe such energy-saving technologies are simply too expensive to install.
This financial barrier comes as nearly three-quarters (71 per cent) advocate for greater government support for insulation, and 68 per cent desire more funding for solar panels and heat pumps to mitigate future energy crises by reducing consumption and household bills.
With energy price hikes anticipated from July, a staggering 83 per cent of respondents expressed worry, and 44 per cent indicated they would be unable to afford them.
In response, 73 per cent are calling for targeted government assistance, while 67 per cent believe support should be extended to all households.
The April survey also found that three-quarters of the public (76 per cent) hold US President Donald Trump responsible for the impending energy bill increases affecting UK homes due to the Iran conflict, with nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) agreeing these rises constitute a “Trump tax” on their bills.
Beyond political figures, public anger is also directed at energy companies.
Two-thirds (64 per cent) believe the energy industry is profiteering from the Iran conflict, which has seen oil and gas prices surge. Furthermore, more than half of those surveyed consider it wrong to end the windfall tax on energy firms at this time.
The escalating energy prices, exacerbated by the US-Israeli war on Iran, have prompted 35 per cent of individuals to become more interested in home energy technology that could reduce their bills, while only a quarter reported no change in interest, and a fifth already possessed such technology.
Of those who were more interested, 45% were keen on roof-top solar panels, 36% would like more home insulation, 35% are interested in the new plug-in solar option the Government is planning to bring into shops and 26% are more interested in getting a heat pump.
Simon Francis, End Fuel Poverty Coalition co-ordinator said: “The public has had enough of history repeating itself.
“They want to protect themselves from oil and gas price shocks for good, and the Government has both the means and the mandate to help them do it.
“Energy firms made £125 billion in profits on their UK operations over the last five years and companies like BP are already expecting bumper profits from the fresh crisis.
“The windfall tax revenue raised by the Treasury should be going further to help households cut their bills for good,” he said, urging the Government to make its “warm homes plan” more ambitious and guarantee every upgraded home will see energy efficiency improve and bills come down.
Under the £15 billion plan, homeowners will be able to access low and zero-interest loans, while low-income and fuel poor households will get free upgrades, for insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and batteries.
Robert Palmer, deputy director of campaign group Uplift which backs the transition from fossil fuel production in the UK, said: “People know they’re being hit with a Trump Tax, plain and simple.
“We’re facing higher energy bills, rocketing fuel prices and more expensive mortgages.
“Our dependence on fossil fuels is making all of us poorer. All except for the oil and gas bosses and their shareholders who – once again – are set to cash in at our expense.”
He said more drilling in the North Sea, as Mr Trump has repeatedly called for, would not “take a penny off our bills” and have no meaningful impact on UK gas supplies.
“The only way to insulate ourselves from these risks is to press on with renewables, like wind, and upgrade our homes with solar power and heat pumps, so we can free ourselves from oil and gas and ensure we have a liveable planet,” he said.
Major stock gauges have risen overnight as potential peace talks calm instability fears that have rocked markets for weeks.
Europe is facing a severe jet fuel shortage, with "maybe six weeks of jet fuel left," IEA executive director Fatih Birol said.
Nate Tice and Charles McDonald's final 75-player big board ahead of the NFL Draft is here.
Federal Reserve Governor Stephen Miran suggested on Thursday that he's become slightly more hawkish because inflation looks a bit stickier and he now sees less reason for accommodative monetary policy than he once did.
New York Federal Reserve president John Williams said Thursday that the Middle East conflict has introduced "substantial risks" and heightened uncertainty for the US economy, signaling the central bank is intent on holding interest rates steady.
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The bill aims to prevent fans from having to own subscriptions to multiple streaming services to watch their favorite team.

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Through the Plug-and-Play Photovoltaics program, DOE will advance the development of a commercial plug-and-play photovoltaic (PV) system, an off-the-shelf product that is fully inclusive with little need for individual customization.
Homeowners can install the new plug-and-play PV system without special training or tools. The homeowner simply plugs the system into a PV-ready circuit, and an automatic PV discovery process initiates communication between the system and the utility. These projects will help drive innovations to fundamentally change the design and installation of residential PV systems, reducing costs for homeowners and simplifying installations and grid connectivity.
On December 7, 2012, DOE announced funding for the following Systems Integration projects:
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Turkish photovoltaic solar panel producer CW Enerji signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to supply $750 million worth of equipment to a U.S. client.
According to a disclosure from the company on late Wednesday, the deal covers the sale of solar panels designed and manufactured by the company, along with associated components and aluminum frames.
Under the terms of the deal, the project is expected to run through the end of 2030. The company plans to receive an initial advance payment in 2026, amounting to 5% of the total value, equivalent to $37.5 million.
Following the advance, the company will proceed with shipment planning, initiating the operational phase once the payment is secured, the statement noted.
Unit prices and other commercial terms tied to the project will not be fixed at this stage. Instead, they will be determined based on prevailing market conditions at the time of each product or service delivery.
The company did not disclose the name of the partner.
Founded in 2010, CW Enerji operates in Türkiye’s southern province of Antalya, with an annual production capacity of 1.8 gigawatts (GW) for photovoltaic solar panels and 1.2 GW for solar cell manufacturing.
The company outlined plans to expand its annual solar cell production capacity from 1.2 GW to 5 GW through additional investments expected to cost $520 million. It also brought its first aluminum frame production facility online in 2025, with an annual capacity of 1,000 tons.
The company generated ₺16.4 billion ($414.7 million) in revenue in 2025, with overseas sales accounting for 4% of total sales across 60 countries, according to its latest annual report.
Following the disclosure, CW Enerji shares traded on Borsa Istanbul climbed 8% during Thursday’s session.

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Summary
Forecast Trend Report by Period
China is considering restricting exports of solar manufacturing equipment to the US, a move aimed at checking Washington’s push for solar self-sufficiency and preserving Beijing’s dominance in the market. After tightening control over rare earths, China is increasingly using export curbs to strengthen its leverage over global supply chains.
Chinese authorities are weighing limits on exports of advanced solar technology to the US, Reuters reported on April 16. They have held preliminary talks with suppliers of solar panel manufacturing equipment. The discussions come as the US moves to expand domestic solar panel production against the risk of Chinese export controls.
China produces more than 80% of the world’s solar panel components. The top 10 suppliers of solar cell manufacturing equipment are all Chinese companies.
If China imposes export curbs on the US, plans by American companies including Tesla to build or expand factories could be disrupted. Elon Musk, Tesla’s chief executive officer, has said solar energy could meet all US electricity demand, including for data centers. Tesla is seeking to buy $2.9 billion of solar panel and cell manufacturing equipment from Chinese companies to expand solar power capacity in the US.
Reuters said China’s existing export controls on rare earths, imposed in response to US reciprocal tariffs, suggest Beijing could broaden restrictions to other technologies where it holds a competitive edge.
Some expect Chinese export controls on the US to benefit Korean companies in the short term. As the US looks for alternative suppliers to reduce reliance on China, Korean energy companies may gain limited opportunities.
According to the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, Beijing introduced 30 export restriction measures from 2021 through last year, up from 11 in the previous five-year period.
As the US raises barriers to exports of advanced technologies such as semiconductors to China, Beijing has pushed back by tightening control over supply chains including rare earths. Last year, it used export controls on critical minerals to pressure US President Donald Trump into agreeing to a truce in the tariff war with China. More recently, Beijing has increased supply-chain pressure on foreign companies. According to the business community in Beijing, the Chinese government began restricting supply-chain investigations by foreign companies this month. Foreign companies that collect data on Chinese firms or seek to verify supply chains can now be treated as threats to national security.
Kim Eun-jung, Beijing correspondent, Korea Economic Daily, kej@hankyung.com
Korea Economic Daily
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The company will acquire 26.5% stake to qualify as a captive user
April 16, 2026
Follow Mercom India on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights
Shree Krishna Paper Mills and Industries will procure power from Ratan Green Projects One’s (RGPOPL) solar project in Rajasthan.
The project, located in Pali district, has an installed solar capacity of 8.5 MW and includes a 1.3 MWh battery energy storage system.
The company will acquire a 26.5% equity stake in RGPOPL and consume power generated from the project on a captive basis under a power purchase agreement.
Delhi-headquartered Shree Krishna Paper Mills will invest up to ₹31 million (~$332,000) in two cash tranches. The first tranche of ₹9.3 million (~$100,000) will be invested within 30 days from the execution of the agreement, while the remaining ₹21.7 million (~$233,000) will be invested 30 days prior to the expected commercial operation date of the solar project.
RGPOPL is a renewable power producer established to develop and operate this project for supplying electricity to captive users on a long-term basis.
According to Shree Krishna Paper Mills, its manufacturing facilities in Rajasthan use energy-efficient machinery, recycle heat, and implement smart production scheduling to lower electricity consumption. These efforts cut costs and reduce carbon emissions.
Many energy-intensive industries are adopting clean energy sources to reduce their electricity costs and make their operations sustainable. Renewable energy options include rooftop solar and open-access models through captive and group-captive arrangements.
Through its ‘C&I Clean Energy Meet’ series, Mercom has been bringing together leading voices from India’s renewable energy sector with businesses seeking cost-effective, dependable clean power solutions, creating a single platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The next event will be held in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, on May 15, 2026.
These events see participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including industry experts, consultants, equipment manufacturers, financial institutions, and project operators. Attendees will gain practical insights into procuring reliable, low-cost renewable power, evaluating clean energy technologies, and accessing competitive financing options to support their energy transition efforts.
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The simulations, led by climatologist Oliver Branch of the University of Hohenheim (Germany), found that large enough solar power plants that absorb much more heat than the surrounding reflective desert sand can cause rain, TechRadar reports.
The modelling conditions included the United Arab Emirates region with the nearby Persian Gulf, and solar panels as surfaces that can absorb 95% of sunlight. It found that the temperature difference between the surfaces of the sand and the solar cells creates upward air currents that can lead to rain and provide water to the region.
Air currents contribute to cloud formation, but only if there is a source of moisture in the atmosphere nearby. The model showed that humid high winds from the Persian Gulf would be sufficient for this. The required temperature conditions could be created by a solar power plant of 15 km² or more.
A 20 km² field of solar cells could increase the amount of precipitation by almost 600,000 m³, which is equivalent to 1 cm of rainfall over an area of more than 80 km². If such downpours occurred ten times in one summer, it would be enough to supply water to more than 30,000 people a year.
“Some solar farms are getting up to the right size right now… Maybe it’s not science fiction that we can produce this effect,” says Oliver Branch, referring to China’s largest solar fields.
However, real solar cells are lighter than those in the model. They are designed to reflect light and cool the environment, which reduces the effect of provoking rain. Additionally, scientists suggest planting drought-resistant crops between the rows of solar cells to enhance the effect. According to Branch and his team, this model could work in other arid regions, such as Namibia and the Baja California Peninsula (Mexico).
Read also: AI data centres can heat up nearby areas by up to 9°C – study
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Written by Mariyam Sara

Published on April 16, 2026 | 6 min read
India has crossed the 150 GW milestone by adding 50 GW of solar capacity in just 14 months, reported the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI). The country is now on track to hit 280–300 GW by 2030, to support the 500 GW non-fossil fuel target.
Solar energy harnesses light and heat from the sun using photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems to generate heat or electricity.
The government permits 100% FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) in the solar energy sector and reduced GST on renewable energy devices and parts for manufacturing from 12% to 5%, showing strong policy support.
Currently, India boasts a total renewable energy installed capacity of 250.52 GW and aims to hit 500 GW by 2030.
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) extended the BCD (Basic Customs Duty) exemption to capital goods for lithium-ion cell manufacturing for Battery Energy Storage Systems to reduce reliance on China-imported battery packs and support India’s Atmanirbhar goals.
Oil and natural gas could run out in about 50 years with the current consumption rate, according to experts. Thus, it is essential to find alternative fuel sources that are cost-effective and renewable.
India's geographical proximity to the equator makes solar energy the most preferred energy source. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) reported that around 42 lakh households have installed rooftop solar panels up till April, 2026.
India is one of the largest importers of crude oil, meeting around 80–90% of its requirement through imports. With a weakening rupee making imports expensive and volatile crude oil prices, India seeks out alternative energy sources.
With the consistent growth of solar energy consumption and the government's strong policy support for initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, smart investors are adding solar stocks to their portfolio.
Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source that harnesses the sun’s rays using photovoltaics (PV) and solar thermal systems and converts them into electricity. It helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
Solar panels are often installed on residential and commercial rooftops, large-scale utility plants and in remote areas prone to load-shedding. These solar panels consist of semiconductor materials that, when hit by the sunlight, create a flow of electrons, i.e., electricity, which is then stored in batteries.
The prices of Crude oil, which is the primary component for generating electricity, are consistently rising due to various macroeconomic factors such as geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, sanctions, and under-investments.
Source: macrotrends
India imports around 80–90% of its crude oil requirement, and pays in US dollars for these imports, making crude oil even more expensive due to the depreciation of the rupee against the dollar.
Apart from being expensive and non-renewable, traditional power generation produces significant carbon dioxide emissions, around 510–1,170 gms of carbon dioxide produced per kilowatt-hour.
To combat these environmental and monetary drawbacks, India seeks alternative and renewable sources of energy such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass. Among all these energy sources, utility-scale solar energy is the most affordable and easiest to generate.
In the Union Budget 2026, renewable energy allocation increased to ₹32,914 crore, with the highest allocation of ₹30539.36 crore dedicated to the solar energy sector.
This increased allocation is expected to help more companies enter the solar energy industry, increasing the output, which would make India energy independent.
Solar energy stocks will certainly benefit from the favourable regulations, policy support and increased funds allocation. Here’s how you can identify quality solar energy stocks in India.
Check the company’s order book and invest only if it has a significant number of secured projects or confirmed manufacturing orders.
The renewable energy sector is a capital-intensive industry, and a high debt-to-equity ratio is quite normal. Find out the industry average and ensure the company you invest in has a lower debt-to-equity ratio than its peers.
Check the company’s operating profit, that is, profit from its core operations, PBIT (Profit Before Interest and Tax). Look for companies with good profit margins and high returns on capital employed (ROE) to ensure the company’s efficiency in using its capital and profitability.
Though solar stocks have high growth potential, you need to consider the following risks before investing in them.
Solar energy-generating companies require significant capital up front and borrow capital to set up the infrastructure. An increase in interest rates would make loans more expensive, putting pressure on profit margins.
While the solar energy sector is currently backed by government funding and supportive policies, a withdrawal of these benefits would cause a significant slowdown. Reduced competitiveness, combined with manufacturing disruptions, would force domestic firms to struggle against cheaper, imported alternatives.
Since solar energy relies on sunlight for generating electricity, during the monsoon season, when sunlight is scarce, solar panels may not perform well.
New companies are entering the solar energy sector, increasing the competition within the sector. Companies would need to either sell products at competitive prices or offer exclusive, innovative products and services to maintain market share and position.
Ensure the solar energy company's management is competent to execute projects on time to reduce risk arising from delayed production.
The solar energy sector is growing rapidly, achieving new milestones in generation capacity and is expected to expand further in the coming years. To boost the renewable energy sector, the government is allocating significant funds, with solar energy securing the highest grant compared to other renewable energy sources such as wind, biomass and hydropower.
Before investing in solar energy, it is important to evaluate a company’s profit margins, debt-to-equity ratio, and order book to make informed investment decisions.
Solar energy stocks are shares of companies involved in manufacturing solar panels, developing solar power projects, or providing related services in the renewable energy sector.
You can invest by directly purchasing stocks of solar companies or investing in mutual funds with a renewable energy sector theme.
Solar stocks can offer strong long-term growth due to rising demand for clean energy, government support, and global sustainability goals.
Factors such as government policies, solar panel prices, changes in interest rates and global energy demand significantly affect solar energy stock prices.
The solar energy stocks carry risks such as policy changes, high debt levels in companies, increased competition and market volatility.
To analyse solar companies before investing, you need to evaluate the companies' revenue growth, profit margins, debt levels, order book, and project pipeline.
Yes, solar stocks are generally considered suitable for long-term investors as the world is shifting from traditional power to renewable energy sources. With the Indian government's efforts to make the country energy self-sufficient, solar stocks have high potential for growth.
Since solar companies are in the expansion and growth stage, most companies do not typically pay dividends yet.
Global demand for clean energy directly influences export opportunities, pricing, and investor sentiment in Indian solar stocks.
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Mariyam Sara
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holds an MBA in Finance and is a true Finance Fanatic. She writes extensively on all things finance whether it’s stock trading, personal finance, or insurance, chances are she’s covered it. When she’s not writing, she’s busy pursuing NISM certifications, experimenting with new baking recipes.
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Published 16th April, 2026 by Greg Morris
NSG Group has achieved a glass recycling breakthrough after the successful completion of a demonstration experiment.
The Japan-headquartered group has manufactured float glass from cover glass recovered from end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) modules.
More than a decade has passed since the large-scale introduction of photovoltaic power generation systems in Japan.
As these systems approach the end of their service life, the volume of decommissioned panels is expected to rise sharply after 2030.
Establishing technologies that enable proper material separation and closed‑loop recycling has therefore become an increasingly important social priority.
However, PV cover glass has traditionally been difficult to recycle due to its composition, which is designed to enhance module performance, and the strong adhesives used to ensure long-term durability.
For this demonstration, the cover glass was separated and extracted using Tokuyama Corporation’s Low-Temperature Thermal Decomposition Recycling Technology for Photovoltaic Panels at its demonstration facility in Nanporo Town, Hokkaido.
In February of this year, NSG Group conducted a manufacturing trial at the float furnace of its Chiba Plant in Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture, using the recovered cover glass as part of the raw material mix.
The trial assessed product quality and the impact on the manufacturing process.
Results confirmed the recycled material can be utilised under defined conditions, demonstrating the feasibility of horizontal recycling into float glass.
Tokuyama, the supplier of the PV cover glass used in the experiment, possesses technologies for efficiently separating and extracting cover glass from photovoltaic panels at the end of their life cycle.
To produce even higher-quality float glass, NSG Group partnered with Tokuyama and utilised this technology.

Other expected benefits include reductions in the mining of natural resources, such as silica sand and soda ash; improved combustion efficiency in melting furnaces through increased cullet use; and overall reductions in CO₂ emissions in float glass manufacturing.
These efforts support the Vision 2025 for Achieving Carbon Neutrality in the Glass Industry by 2050, announced by the Flat Glass Manufacturers Association of Japan last December, which aims to build a waste glass recycling system.

Greg Morris has been editor of Glass International and organiser of the Glassman conferences since 2012, specialising in glass packaging. Prior to this he spent five years working in newspaper journalism.
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Researchers have analyzed the biomass and nutritional value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle, growing in agrivoltaics fields. The results showed that forage quality may be maintained or even enhanced in agrivoltaic environments.
Image: Antalexion, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
A research team from the University of Minnesota in the United States has investigated the impact of agrivoltaics arrays on the yield and the nutritional quality of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle.
“This study is among the first to evaluate forage biomass and forage quality of multiple grass and legume species grown under different agrivoltaic solar array designs in a grazing dairy system,” corresponding author Bradley J. Heins told pv magazine. “We wanted to determine how solar intensity and solar panel configuration influence both yield and feed quality for forages. We need more research on what to grow under solar panels, and this is some of the early research that gives guidance to farmers and solar developers on what to plant.”
He added that his team is planning to expand the research in the coming summer and to explore vertical bifacial solar panels. “We will compare these to a regular ground mount solar installation for cattle grazing. We are going to really look at the economics of different solar array configurations,” he said. “We are also going to evaluate long-term animal performance and grazing behavior in agrivoltaic systems.”
The crops were planted beneath a 30 kW PV site, a 50 kW PV site, and one control site in the university’s vicinity.
The 30 kW solar site had fixed solar arrays mounted at 35 degrees south, while the 50 kW site was square-shaped, with a flat-top array using reflectors. In both sites, the panels were mounted 2.5 to 3.0 m off the ground. No cattle were allowed to graze any of the experimental plots during the study, which was conducted from May 2022 to September 2022 and from May 2023 to September 2023.
Forage crops included alfalfa, field peas, meadow fescue, orchardgrass, red clover, brown midrib sorghum-sudan grass, and white clover. Furthermore, the crop ranged included three grass-and-legume mixes with either alfalfa, red clover, or white clover. Forage samples were clipped three times per year, when forages reached approximately 25-35 cm in height, which corresponded to the recommended height for lactating dairy cows.
Samples were dried at 60 C for 99 hours to determine dry matter concentration, and two 2 samples from each plot were randomly selected for botanical composition. They were then sent to a lab, where they were analyzed for crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, mineral concentrations, and total-tract neutral detergent fiber digestibility (TTNDFD).
The analysis showed that forage biomass was lower at the 50 kW solar site (3,223 kg/ha) than at the 30 kW solar site (8,968 kg/ha) and the control pasture (9,987 kg/ha). The 50 kW forages had greater crude protein on a dry matter basis, at 23.8%, compared with 20.1% at the 30 kW site and 18.2% at the control pasture. The 50 kW forages also had greater TTNDFD, at 54.4%, compared with 52.3% at the 30 kW site and 49.1% at the control pasture.
“The results showed that forage quality may be maintained or even enhanced in agrivoltaic systems,” concluded Heins. “We didn’t really know what to expect. But we found grasses – namely, orchardgrass and meadow fescue – to have great biomass production under solar panels compared to growing in a regular pasture.”
The results have appeared in “Agrivoltaic arrays and effects of forage biomass and nutritive value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle,” published in JDS Communications. Scientists from the University of Minnesota and the University of New Hampshire have participated in the research.
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Hildisrieden, LU – April 03, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
Oekoboiler Swiss AG, a Swiss manufacturer specializing in energy-efficient heat pump boilers, continues to expand its sustainable hot water solutions that seamlessly integrate with photovoltaic systems across Switzerland. The company’s advanced systems combine heat pump and solar technology to deliver significant energy savings while reducing CO2 emissions in residential and commercial buildings.
The company’s innovative approach addresses the growing demand for sustainable building technologies as Switzerland moves toward stricter energy-efficiency standards. Oekoboiler’s systems utilize a dual-energy approach that draws approximately 75 percent of the required energy from ambient air and only 25 percent from electricity, resulting in up to an 80 percent reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional water-heating methods.

The company’s heat pump boilers operate independently from central heating systems, making them particularly suitable for both new construction and retrofitting existing buildings. This flexibility has positioned Oekoboiler as a key provider of sustainable hot water solutions throughout Switzerland, where the company plans, installs, and maintains systems tailored to individual building requirements. Learn more here: https://pressadvantage.com/organization/oekoboiler-swiss-ag.
As Switzerland prepares for the implementation of EnEV 2025 energy efficiency standards, Oekoboiler’s technology offers building owners a pathway to compliance while maintaining comfort and reliability. The systems feature smart controls that optimize energy usage based on demand patterns and available solar energy, ensuring maximum efficiency throughout the year.
The integration capabilities extend beyond basic functionality, with WiFi-enabled models allowing remote monitoring and control. This connectivity enables property owners and facility managers to track energy consumption, adjust settings, and receive maintenance alerts, contributing to long-term system efficiency and reliability.
Oekoboiler’s product range includes storage capacities from 150 to 450 liters, accommodating various building sizes and hot water demands. Each system undergoes rigorous testing in Switzerland, ensuring quality and performance standards that meet the country’s stringent building regulations.
The environmental benefits of Oekoboiler’s technology extend beyond energy savings. The heat pump operation naturally dehumidifies basement spaces where units are typically installed, preventing mold formation and eliminating the need for separate dehumidification equipment. This dual functionality adds value for property owners while contributing to healthier indoor environments.

Oekoboiler Swiss AG maintains its commitment to Swiss engineering excellence through continuous product development and comprehensive service support. The company’s focus on quality consultation and customized solutions has established its reputation as a trusted partner for sustainable building projects throughout Switzerland. Additional information about Oekoboiler Swiss AG can be found at https://oekoboiler-swiss-ag.localo.site.
###
For more information about Oekoboiler Swiss AG, contact the company here:
Oekoboiler Swiss AG
R. Heller
+41 41 511 21 77
info@oekoboiler.com
Mülacher 6
6024 Hildisrieden
Switzerland
Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact pressreleases@xpr.media

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Last Updated: 23rd Feb 2026 Fact-checked by Ronald Brakels
Solar panel degradation is a slow decline in panel performance over time. But for decent quality panels, it’s very slow. If you have quality panels on your roof, you can expect them to last for decades with only minor losses in power output. Degradation rates these days are so low that, so long as quality panels are used, it’s no longer something most homeowners need to worry about. But choosing panels with a lower degradation rate can still help, as it affects your system’s lifetime energy yield and long-term savings.
Solar panels come with performance warranties that promise they won’t lose capacity faster than a specified degradation rate. This is separate from their product warranties that cover defects. These warranties normally last for 25 or 30 years.
The table below shows how different brands compare on degradation rates and long-term output.
Here’s a table showing the maximum amount of degradation different panels’ performance warranties allow after the first one or two years. The degradation rate, for example, “0.35% per year” is a percentage of the panel’s original capacity.
The very best panels only lose up to 0.25% per year, while the worst on the list only loses up to 0.55% per year.
In 2026, if your panels are from a decent manufacturer, you can expect a warranted annual degradation rate of 0.4% or less.  
While the maximum warranted loss for most panels now going on Australian roofs is 0.4%, you can do a little better by getting Aiko panels, which claim 0.35%, and if you’re willing to pay for a premium panel such as REC or SunPower Maxeon, they promise 0.25%.
Solar panel degradation is getting better all the time. Five years ago, 0.7% per year was typical, and there will probably be further improvements in the future.
Panels’ performance warranties allow for a steeper output drop in their first year. This is usually either 1% or 2%, but for some panels it’s 1.5%.
This is mainly due to Light-Induced Degradation (LID), which affects panels during their first day or two in sunlight, but then stops. How bad it is depends on the type of panel.
So while a panel can take a small hit to output in its first year, you can expect the deterioration in subsequent years to be very gradual.
Being exposed to the elements is a tough life. Solar panels expand and contract with changes in temperature, are flexed by wind, soaked by rain, and possibly pounded by hail. This results in the build-up of what starts as very minor damage over the years, which can include microcracks in solar cells and damage to solder joins. Both problems can reduce current flow. Well-made panels with lower rates of degradation are better able to resist these effects and so build up damage at a slower rate.
The losses build up and affect your system’s lifetime energy yield. If you choose a premium panel with a performance warranty that allows 1% degradation in the first year and 0.25% in subsequent years, and it degrades at the maximum allowed rate, it will have 92% of its original power output after 25 years.
If you instead used a panel with a performance warranty that allows 2% degradation in the first year and 0.5% in subsequent years, and it degrades at the maximum allowed rate, it will have 86% of its maximum power output after 25 years.
The increased rate of degradation results in the second panel producing 4.2% less energy over 25 years.  Because the energy loss gets worse over time, half of it occurs after year 17.
Panels rarely degrade at their maximum allowed rate, so the difference between panels is likely to be even less than what the above graph shows. While having a degradation rate of 0.25% rather than 0.5% does make a difference, it doesn’t make a large one, especially over the first 10-15 years.
All else equal, the lower the warranted degradation rate, the better. But things aren’t always equal and lower degradation panels can cost more. If you want the lowest warranted degradation rates, you’ll have to pay more for a REC or SunPower Maxeon panels, and you may not consider the modest expected improvement in energy production worth the extra cost.

Let’s compare two 10 kW systems, one consisting of typical panels and one consisting of premium panels:
In 25 years, the premium panel system saves you about $1,000. Because it takes time for the effects of degradation to build up, most of the savings occur later in the panel’s life:
In the first 20 years, the premium panel system will only save you around $700 more in electricity savings than the typical panel system. However, in the next 20 years, they save an additional $1,600.
Note: I have assumed the maximum degradation that performance warranties allow, but most manufacturers include a safety buffer. So the actual real-world savings are likely to be less.
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Researchers have analyzed the biomass and nutritional value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle, growing in agrivoltaics fields. The results showed that forage quality may be maintained or even enhanced in agrivoltaic environments.
Image: Antalexion, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
From pv magazine Global
A research team from the University of Minnesota in the United States has investigated the impact of agrivoltaics arrays on the yield and the nutritional quality of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle.
“This study is among the first to evaluate forage biomass and forage quality of multiple grass and legume species grown under different agrivoltaic solar array designs in a grazing dairy system,” corresponding author Bradley J. Heins told pv magazine.
“We wanted to determine how solar intensity and solar panel configuration influence both yield and feed quality for forages. We need more research on what to grow under solar panels, and this is some of the early research that gives guidance to farmers and solar developers on what to plant.”
He added that his team is planning to expand the research in the coming summer and to explore vertical bifacial solar panels.
“We will compare these to a regular ground mount solar installation for cattle grazing. We are going to really look at the economics of different solar array configurations,” he said. “We are also going to evaluate long-term animal performance and grazing behavior in agrivoltaic systems.”
The crops were planted beneath a 30 kW PV site, a 50 kW PV site, and one control site in the university’s vicinity.
The 30 kW solar site had fixed solar arrays mounted at 35 degrees south, while the 50 kW site was square-shaped, with a flat-top array using reflectors. In both sites, the panels were mounted 2.5 to 3.0 m off the ground. No cattle were allowed to graze any of the experimental plots during the study, which was conducted from May 2022 to September 2022 and from May 2023 to September 2023.
Forage crops included alfalfa, field peas, meadow fescue, orchardgrass, red clover, brown midrib sorghum-sudan grass, and white clover. Furthermore, the crop ranged included three grass-and-legume mixes with either alfalfa, red clover, or white clover.
Forage samples were clipped three times per year, when forages reached approximately 25-35 cm in height, which corresponded to the recommended height for lactating dairy cows.
Samples were dried at 60 C for 99 hours to determine dry matter concentration, and two 2 samples from each plot were randomly selected for botanical composition. They were then sent to a lab, where they were analyzed for crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, mineral concentrations, and total-tract neutral detergent fiber digestibility (TTNDFD).
The analysis showed that forage biomass was lower at the 50 kW solar site (3,223 kg/ha) than at the 30 kW solar site (8,968 kg/ha) and the control pasture (9,987 kg/ha). The 50 kW forages had greater crude protein on a dry matter basis, at 23.8%, compared with 20.1% at the 30 kW site and 18.2% at the control pasture. The 50 kW forages also had greater TTNDFD, at 54.4%, compared with 52.3% at the 30 kW site and 49.1% at the control pasture.
“The results showed that forage quality may be maintained or even enhanced in agrivoltaic systems,” concluded Heins. “We didn’t really know what to expect. But we found grasses – namely, orchardgrass and meadow fescue – to have great biomass production under solar panels compared to growing in a regular pasture.”
The results have appeared in “Agrivoltaic arrays and effects of forage biomass and nutritive value of grasses and legumes for grazing dairy cattle,” published in JDS Communications. Scientists from the University of Minnesota and the University of New Hampshire have participated in the research.
This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
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Solar Y-Splitter Connector Pair – 1-to-2 Parallel Adapter For Solar Panels, 1000V 30A, IP67 Waterproof (MMF & FFM, 4mm²)  ruhrkanal.news
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Competition Panel Rejects Complaint Against Adani Group, Azure Power In Solar Tender Case  NDTV
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Solar PV drove renewable energy capacity additions in India with a record 44.6 GW, representing 87.2% YoY growth, says MNRE 
Distributed solar surged, with 16.31 GW added last fiscal, led by the PMSGMBY scheme 
Wind installations rose 45.6% to 6.05 GW, supporting overall clean capacity growth 
India added a record 55.3 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity in FY 2026 (April 2025 to March 2026), driven by a record 44.6 GW of solar PV capacity expansion. Annual solar capacity additions expanded by 87.2% over the previous year’s 23.83 GW and exceeded the targeted 24 GW. Wind installations increased by 45.6% with 6.05 GW. 
Open access commercial and industrial (C&I) projects, including those for captive consumption, also pushed annual installations to a record high. The waiver of the inter-state transmission system (ISTS) deadline on June 30, 2025, was another responsible factor, adds JMK Research & Analytics. 
The market intelligence firm adds that ground-mounted PV additions during the last fiscal year improved by 106% to around 34.8 GW, thanks to the completion of projects tendered under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s (MNRE) 50 GW annual bidding trajectory, which started in 2023 (see India Releases Bidding Trajectory For RE).
Distributed generation continues to expand under supportive policy frameworks. Close to 8.7 GW of rooftop solar capacity contributed to the annual total, along with 7.6 GW under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) scheme. In comparison, 3.66 GW was installed under PM KUSUM in FY 2024-25. The scheme has now been extended till March 31, 2027. 
A total of 16.31 GW of distributed solar installations recorded last fiscal is the largest annual addition in this segment to date. Rooftop solar accounted for almost 36% of the total installed capacity during the reporting year, says the ministry.
MNRE data shows that India’s cumulative installed solar PV capacity at the end of March 2026 reached 150.26 GW – the leading contributor to non-fossil-fuel generation of 283.46 GW (including 274.68 GW of renewable energy). By 2030, the target is to expand the latter to 500 GW.
Having achieved 50% of its non-fossil-fuel-based power capacity target for 2030 5 years ahead of schedule, India has now raised the target to 60% by 2035 under its Nationally Determined Contribution (see India Raises Non-Fossil Power Capacity Target To 60% By 2035).
Yet, coal continues to be the primary source of electricity generation in the country, with a 67.7% share up to March 2026, followed by solar at 9.4%. Coal will continue to lead the generation mix even in FY 2035-36 (see CEA: Solar Set To Become India’s Largest Power Source By 2035-36). 
Going forward, JMK Research projects the country will add around 53 GW to 55 GW of solar and wind capacity in FY 2027. 
India’s cumulative solar PV module manufacturing capacity also expanded from 2.3 GW in 2014 to about 172 GW as of March 31, 2026, according to the ministry, with 8 out of the 12 Production Linked Incentive (PLI) winners having launched production in the value chain. Of this, 98 GW was added during the reporting year, compared to 74 GW in the previous year. 
India’s solar module imports decreased by 3 times from $2.15 billion in FY 2025 to $758 million by January 2026. 
The country is also boosting battery energy storage system (BESS) additions, as the ministry extended the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) exemption for lithium-ion cell manufacturing to March 31, 2028. It aims to reduce India’s reliance on imported battery packs, primarily from China. The government is also backing an Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee project to develop sodium-ion battery technology as a cost-effective alternative to lithium-based storage systems. 
TaiyangNews 2024

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HAGERSTOWN, Mdl. – The city is exploring solar energy options for government properties as rising electricity costs and expiring federal incentives create urgency for action.
During the April 14 work session, representatives from Sunburst Solar presented potential pathways for the city to transition some facilities to solar power, citing long-term savings and significant grant opportunities.
Curtis Hovis, CEO of Sunburst Solar, told council members that electricity rates have steadily increased in recent years and are projected to rise about 30 percent by 2029. He said municipalities that invest in solar now could offset those costs while freeing up funds for public services.
“There’s a lot of money available for this that can help bring down costs and use it for services,” Hovis said.
Under current federal programs, government entities can receive direct payments covering between 30 percent and 50 percent of solar installation costs, provided projects begin before July 4.
Hovis said smaller systems could generate annual savings of $10,000 to $20,000, while larger-scale installations could save $100,000 or more each year. Additional state and local grants may further reduce upfront costs.
Officials also discussed financing options through the Maryland Energy Administration, including zero percent funding for qualifying government projects.
Officials identified several possible sites for solar installations, including the city fieldhouse and wastewater treatment facility.
Some council members also expressed interest in launching a pilot program to evaluate how solar could benefit residents, particularly low-income households and small businesses in the downtown area.
Discussion included the possibility of community solar projects, which could allow residents to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their own properties.
Sunburst Solar representatives said homeowners can receive free consultations and may be able to install systems with little to no upfront cost through financing or lease options.
Solar systems can reduce electric bills immediately, with savings increasing over time as utility rates rise. Through net metering, excess energy generated by solar panels is sent back to the grid in exchange for credits.
The timeline to secure federal incentives is tight. Permitting typically takes four to six weeks, followed by installation ranging from several days to about a week, depending on system size. Systems are usually activated within about a month after installation.
Council members indicated interest in reviewing site-specific proposals and financial models before making decisions.
Hovis offered to provide a no-cost analysis of city properties to determine which locations would deliver the greatest return on investment.
Council members took no formal action and plan to continue discussions as more detailed proposals are developed.
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Credits: Kyosemi Corporation
For more than a century, solar panels have always been flat; however, Japan has achieved the impossible yet again. Kyosemi’s Sphelar® reaches a milestone by asking the question of why solar panels have to be flat and then proving that solar panels do not have to be flat. Although the early days of photovoltaics from the 1880s prescribed solar panels that needed to be designed based on the materials sourced for the panels, Japan is opting to be guided by the direction of the sun.
Back in 1883, solar panels had been built by Charles Fritts by coating a selenium base with a thin metal layer to produce power. While the initial solar panels were pure genius, they tended to be rather rigid. This flat panel was rather lucrative for conditions where the light source was still. The static panel, however, could not fully capture the sun from all directions.
The founder of Kyosemi’s Sphelar®, Mr. Nakata, questioned why all solar panels had to be flat. With this curiosity, it was decided that solar panels could be spherical in shape instead.
When lab tests were conducted, it was found that sunlight comes from all directions and strikes from almost everywhere. This is when Mr. Nakata realized that a solar panel of a spherical shape could harness the sun’s energy better than a flat panel.
In Japan, research was deemed so important that JAMIC (Japan Microgravity Center) was formed, where a former mine shaft had been converted into a research site with a 710-meter tunnel holding a drop facility for microgravity experiments.
The exploration of JAMIC’s potential allowed Mr. Nakata to question whether molten silicon could form perfect spheres in a weightless environment. To test this, engineers from Kyosemi and JAMIC conducted a test whereby silicon was placed within a vacuum capsule and was left to free-fall from a 500-meter drop shaft. Every moment produced moments of microgravity, allowing silicon to melt and recrystallize. Finally, a smoother silicone shape formed.
While the initial tests produced joy, the test required forming a P-N junction on a curved surface. By relying on Kyosemi’s opto-semiconductor knowledge, the engineers at the company were able to turn the concept of spherical cells into a reality. The earliest prototypes were wired in series and could generate electricity. These spherical panels proved that solar panels didn’t need to be flat. With that, the Sphelar solar panel could capture energy from all directions. The time has come to say goodbye to flat solar panels since tiny photovoltaic spheres show us what the future looks like.
Kyosemi’s Sphelar® initial research yielded such favorable results that research could immediately accelerate, and the company was able to open its own Microgravity Laboratory in 1998. The company shortened its name from “spherical solar” to Sphelar®. The company then started supplying sample panels to the industry. While early adopters of the panel were initially skeptical of this new design, they slowly embraced the idea of a spherical solar panel. To date, this company captures the story of a complete change in the solar vision.
In this way, Japan became the first country to explore the concept of a spherical solar panel. Mr. Nakata and the team have shown the world that curiosity and questioning could prove that a concept accepted for so long needed to be turned into a broader vision. In this way, this century’s solar shift began, and Japan’s first-ever photovoltaic sphere was unveiled, providing us with an entirely new way to think of renewable energy.
© 2026 by Ecoportal
© 2026 by Ecoportal

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Geronimo Power, an energy firm out of Minneapolis, Minn. is in the early stages of a solar farm and power plant project that will straddle the Jasper-Lawrence county line.
The solar project will span more than 2,000 acres in area, as the necessary land has already been obtained by the company.
Geronimo delivered their plan to the Lawrence County Commission in a meeting on March 30. At the meeting, citizens of Lawrence County appeared in the dozens to make known their disapproval of the project.
Citizens raised concerns about potential water usage, noise pollution and the potential raising of energy bills.
 
Spring River moniker
The solar farm, known as Spring River, will be similar to many of the other projects that have been undertaken in recent years by Geronimo; this particular farm will span about 2,040 acres and be used to generate about 150 megawatts of power in order to help power the potential data center that could be installed near La Russell. Solar panels will not cover all of the necessary power that such an ambitious facility would need, however, said Ryan Butterfield, vice president of strategy at Geronimo. According to Butterfield, they would need much more power to cover the usage of a data center, because of this, another power project would need to be constructed, or the data center would have to draw power from the grid.
Drawing power from the grid does not necessarily mean that the power will come from local communities, however, said Butterfield. The power could be accessed from a variety of areas, even from as far as Kansas.
“In addition to a solar project there would have to be other [forms of generation],” said Butterfield. “[The power] doesn’t have to be right there, it can be all over the place.”
 
In talks before 2020
The solar project actually began long before the meeting with the commission, with Butterfield stating that it has been in development since before 2020. Despite this long development time, the project has still not begun construction and Spring River is not yet a guarantee.
“On the solar project, we’re working with the counties on what that overall looks like,” said Butterfield. “ We still have a lot of elements for the solar project before it’s a go.”
Land has already been secured for the project which was achieved by obtaining leases from area landowners. Lawrence County does not have any zoning restrictions so Geronimo can build as they wish on the land that they lease.
 
Early listening phase
The data center is also in what the company describes as an “early listening phase.” The data center would need to be supported by the solar panels but according to Butterfield the projects are completely separate. Neither project has yet found a customer, which is a hurdle in development, primarily for the data center.
According to Butterfield, the data center could house AI or cloud data depending on who chooses to patronize it. Butterfield said it is not out of the realm of possibility for a company such as Google or Amazon to use the facility.
 
Concerns from community
The data center could bring jobs to the area but it has also raised concerns among citizens, concerns that Geronimo is attempting to quell. Despite this backlash, Butterfield maintains that the community should see benefits from both of these projects.
“We’re looking forward to working with them to listen to their concerns and [finding] ways to mitigate those,” said Butterfield.
One of the biggest points of controversy is that of the water usage of a data facility. This is something that Geronimo and Butterfield hope to remedy by implementing a recycled cooling system, system that reuses the water already in circulation rather than drawing new resources.
Butterfield acknowledged the opposition from members of the community, stating that the company does not want to be where they are unwanted.
“Ultimately, we want to be where people want us and see value in what we’re doing,” said Butterfield.
Butterfield said that there are still no guarantees that either of these projects will happen. Because of this, many of the details regarding the projects are still hazy, particularly as it applies to the data center. It remains to be seen whether the ventures will be undertaken at all.
   
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Intertek Buys Mitsui Solar Lab Assets to Boost India Renewable Testing Push  TipRanks
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Tech giant Amazon has announced nine new renewable energy power purchase agreements (PPAs) in Australia totalling 430MW, with eight projects featuring solar generation co-located with battery energy storage systems (BESS).
This marks the company’s largest single-year investment in the country and will help spearhead the expansion of its data centre AI. This also represents the first solar-plus-storage PPAs Amazon has signed in Australia and the first outside the US.
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Amazon disclosed that the portfolio comprises one wind farm, three utility-scale solar-plus-storage sites, four distributed solar-plus-storage projects, and a new battery energy storage installation to be added to the Mokoan solar PV power plant.
The projects span New South Wales and Victoria, with developers including OX2, X-ELIO, Anza, TagEnergy and European Energy. According to BloombergNEF data, Amazon was the largest corporate purchaser of carbon-free energy in Australia for 2025 and remains among the leading purchasers globally.
The investment directly supports Amazon’s AU$20 billion (US$14.34 billion) commitment to expand data centre infrastructure across Australia by 2029, announced alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in June 2025.
That expansion aims to strengthen Australia’s cloud computing and AI capabilities, with the renewable energy deals providing the carbon-free power needed to meet both operational demands and Amazon’s goal of reaching net zero carbon across its operations by 2040 under The Climate Pledge.
Since 2020, Amazon has invested an estimated AU$2.8 billion in renewable energy projects across Australia, with the 20 projects now contracted.
The nine projects include the Golden Plains 2 wind farm developed by TagEnergy in Victoria, alongside solar-plus-storage sites at Forest Glen (X-ELIO), Stanbridge (Anza) and Muswellbrook (OX2) in New South Wales.
In Victoria, Anza is developing four distributed solar-plus-storage projects at Laceby, Indigo, Barnawartha, and Mooroopna, while European Energy is adding battery storage to the 58MW Mokoan Solar Park, which became operational earlier and was part of Amazon’s June 2025 announcement covering three utility-scale solar projects totalling 333MW of generation capacity.
That earlier agreement with European Energy also included the 150MW Winton North Solar Park in Victoria and the 125MW Bullyard Solar Park in Queensland, both in pre-construction procurement phases.
Jens-Peter Zink, deputy CEO of European Energy, indicated at the time that the company’s Australian operations were “just ramping up,” suggesting further expansion ahead.
Amazon’s approach mirrors strategies employed by other hyperscale operators in Australia, including Microsoft’s 15-year power purchase agreement with FRV Australia for a 300MW solar plant in New South Wales to power the company’s data centres in that state.

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Hail from Tuesday’s storm damaged several solar panels at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Residential solar panels across the East Side also showed visible damage as well.
Some of the glass exterior above Olbrich Botanical Garden’s greenhouses was also damaged during the storm.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens’ copper roofing was dented by the large hail that battered much of Madison’s North and East sides.
The hail-damaged rear window of a vehicle at Wilde East Towne Honda is protected from the elements Thursday following a storm that damaged hundreds of automobiles at dealers on the Far East Side of Madison.
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More severe storms are in the forecast for Tuesday afternoon and night, with the peak threat from 6-10 p.m. for southern Wisconsin.
“There’s hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of damage,” owner Bob Rubin said of the businesses hit by a storm early Tuesday morning.
The city took a direct hit from Tuesday evening’s massive hailstorm.
A confirmed tornado touched down west of Union Center around 6 p.m. Tuesday, damaging about 10 homes, but causing no injuries, Juneau County a…
Several residents and businesses near the Beltline and Ocean Road area faced significant home damage, uprooted trees and downed power lines af…
Hail from Tuesday’s storm damaged several solar panels at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Residential solar panels across the East Side also showed visible damage as well.
Some of the glass exterior above Olbrich Botanical Garden’s greenhouses was also damaged during the storm.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens’ copper roofing was dented by the large hail that battered much of Madison’s North and East sides.
The hail-damaged rear window of a vehicle at Wilde East Towne Honda is protected from the elements Thursday following a storm that damaged hundreds of automobiles at dealers on the Far East Side of Madison.
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Published on 04/16/2026 at 03:40 am EDT
(Alliance News) – Intertek Group PLC on Thursday said it has bought a solar photovoltaic laboratory in India from a subsidiary of Tokyo-based chemical manufacturer Mitsui Chemicals Inc.

The London-based assurance, inspection, product testing and certification company said its new solar PV lab in Ahmedabad, Gujarat will provide accredited testing services for solar PV installations, materials and components.

Intertek said the services will support Indian solar PV manufacturers and international companies looking to enter the country.

The acquisition of the assets is “highly complementary” to its risk-based quality assurance offering for the solar PV industry, Intertek added.

The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

“Solar is a major driver of the energy transition and India is one of the world’s leading solar energy producers, making it a highly attractive market for our industry-leading ATIC solutions,” said Intertek Chief Executive Officer Andre Lacroix.

“We look forward to seizing the exciting opportunities to accelerate growth and contribute long-term to India’s electrification journey.”

Shares in Intertek were up 0.1% at 4,369.00 pence on Thursday morning in London.

By Michael Hennessey, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

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Figures from the International Renewable Energy Agency state that Vietnam’s cumulative solar capacity reached 19,252 MW by the end of last year, indicating a 586 MW increase in 2025.
Image: Sam Williams/Unsplash
Vietnam’s cumulative solar capacity reached 19,252 MW by the end of 2025, according to figures published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), up from 18,666 MW by the end of 2024.
The 586 MW increase, included in IRENA’s Renewable Capacity Statistics 2026, is up on the 79 MW added in 2024 but down on the almost 1.6 GW added in 2023, as indicated by additional figures from IRENA’s database.
Lam Pham and Alnie Demoral, energy analysts at Ember specializing in Asian markets, told pv magazine rooftop solar is performing best in Vietnam, with interest growing in particular among commercial and industrial stakeholders.
“Utility solar faces various challenges to scale in Vietnam, currently including entrenched fossil fuel generation, inadequate grid infrastructure, resistance from utilities wary of managing intermittent renewables and high upfront investment cost,” Pham and Demoral said. “These have arisen since the solar boom triggered by feed-in tariffs back in 2017.”
Last year saw Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade update feed-in tariff rates for solar and wind projects, introducing separate tariffs for solar projects incorporating battery energy storage. Pham and Demoral said tariff rates have been on a downward trend since 2017 and are “relatively low at the moment, except for systems with battery storage.”
Pham and Demoral cited other market drivers as geopolitical tensions and supply chain shifts that are bringing manufacturing investments and purchase orders to Vietnam. “Many of them, as multinational consumer brands with Scope 2 emissions commitments, increased their manufacturing footprint,” they explained. “And of course low solar panel price due to Chinese solar manufacturing in Vietnam.”
In January, a draft decree from the Ministry of Industry and Trade proposed rooftop solar owners could sell up to 50% of the energy produced back to the grid, up from a current 20% cap, in a bid to increase future uptake. Pham and Demoral said this change could help demand grow substantially in 2026.
Vietnam introduced a direct power purchase agreement (DPPA) mechanism in early 2025, allowing renewable energy generators to sell electricity directly to large private consumers, breaking a monopoly of the country’s sole public power company, Vietnam Electricity.
Pham and Demoral said Vietnam’s solar market would benefit from the continued privitization of the country’s electricity market in order to attract private investors. They added that grid integration and curtailment risks should be fixed, as well as greater investment in the grid, batteries and system flexibility.
According to Vietnam’s revised national power development plan, approved last year, the country is aiming to reach 73 GW of installed solar and 38 GW of onshore wind by 2030.
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“My costs are drastically lower.”
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Low-income homeowners in Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod are seeing significant energy savings thanks to a program that provided solar panels and heat pumps to eligible residents.
According to Canary Media, the Cape and Vineyard Electrification Offering program gave solar panels to 55 participating households and energy-efficient heat pumps to 45 of those. Some homeowners were required to make a small co-payment, but most received the upgrade for free, depending on income levels. 
The program has since slashed energy bills for those households by 60% and is expected to serve as an example for the state’s goals of bringing cleaner technology and efficient appliances to Massachusetts residents. 
This program is one of many revealing how modern heat pumps are transforming home energy bills, even in colder climates. On average, homeowners who upgraded with the Massachusetts program have seen $150 in monthly bill savings and reduced their overall energy consumption by 59%. 
As these homeowners quickly learned, upgrading your HVAC is a great way to protect your home from rising energy prices. To see how much you can save by ditching your outdated unit, consider connecting with companies like EnergySage to find the perfect system based on your home and budget. 
One participating homeowner told Canary Media just how much the renovations helped with their budget.
“My costs are drastically lower,” said homeowner Judy Welch. “In the summer now, I don’t have any bills, and I have the air conditioning on all the time.”
According to the report, the program spent roughly $45,700 on each heat pump installation and $30,000 on each solar installation. 
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To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
Solar panels can save you more than $50k over their 25-year lifespan, and EnergySage can help you save as much as $10k on installation. Which begs the question — isn’t that worth an email or two?
The price tags prompted some questions in a meeting of the program’s governing board. However, Maggie Downey, chief administrative officer of Cape Light Compact, defended the initiative. She said the shift from harmful fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil, to cleaner energy is inevitable. While the upfront costs can’t be avoided, the long-term savings are clear.
“The results show that there are savings, and that energy burdens are reduced by more than 50%, when you pair it all with solar,” Downey said.
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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, home heating and cooling can make up 54% of annual energy costs. Therefore, making your HVAC system more efficient is one of the best ways to curb expensive monthly bills. 
While this program focused on residents of Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod, you may be surprised by how many government rebates and local incentives you could qualify for to upgrade your HVAC system to a modern heat pump.
While finding the right HVAC upgrade can get complicated, comparison-shopping sites like EnergySage have great tools to help you navigate rebates and find an efficient system at the right price. Plus, you can connect with a network of professionals certified to handle your installation so you can be sure your unit is running as efficiently as possible. 
Get TCD’s free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
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Leading corporations are advancing their sustainability goals by investing in renewable energy, particularly through community solar credits that support both environmental and social impact. This trend follows the ever-growing solar market, driven by new production contracted by these large companies and utilities, businesses, and residential solar panel users.
But to be sustainable, there’s more to consider than just purchasing and using solar energy; what happens when solar panels are damaged or reach the end of their usable lives? The sustainable option: recycling. As solar panels progress through their lifecycles, recycling programs and plans will be essential, especially to keep up with the push toward a more sustainable energy future. While we’re seeing an influx of solar panel production now, we’re already experiencing a high demand for solar panel disposal.
The rise in solar panel usage in the early 2000s corresponded with an appetite for fossil fuel alternatives. With policy support and dramatic decreases in the cost of the energy it produces, solar power has grown at a historic pace over the last several decades.
Now, we’re experiencing exponential growth in energy demand to account for increasing populations and importantly to power new technologies that require large data centers. This demand is a catalyst for record solar farm growth across the U.S. By 2030, solar photovoltaics (PV) is expected to account for 80% of the growth in global renewable capacity and is on track to become the largest renewable source, surpassing both wind and hydropower.
While we’re rapidly expanding solar energy, we must remember that these panels do not last forever. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), solar panels have a usable life of about 25 years. This means that in 2025, we’re seeing the largest wave of solar panels needing to be disposed of to date.
The International Renewable Energy Agency shares that by 2030, the cumulative end-of-life PV waste in the U.S. is projected to be between 0.17 and 1 million metric tons. By 2050, the U.S. could generate up to 10 million metric tons of end-of-life solar panels—the second highest globally—representing a significant opportunity for material recovery and circular economy leadership. With aluminum making up roughly 17% of a solar panel’s mass, this would translate to about 1.7 million metric tons of recoverable aluminum.

Recycled aluminum panel has the potential to be a meaningful domestic supply source, as the U.S. currently imports more aluminum than it creates. The takeaway: we must pay attention to how solar panel waste is managed and seize opportunities for material recovery.
Luckily, solar panel waste has potential for beneficial reuse. The PV cells are built from recyclable materials, and in some states and across the world, they are already being recycled. But in the U.S., there are some obstacles.
Companies, such as those using community solar as part of their sustainability plans, utilities, businesses, and residential solar panel users have two primary options for disposal: landfilling or recycling. Currently in the U.S., there is no clear federal regulation on how solar panel waste is classified or what disposal method is required.
Solar panel waste can either be classified as hazardous or universal waste. Hazardous waste is subject to more stringent regulations at disposal, whereas universal waste, a specific type of hazardous waste that is widely produced, can be managed with less stringent regulations than other hazardous wastes, encouraging recycling as its proper disposal method.
According to the EPA, solar panels are safe when in use and maintained appropriately. At the end of their usable lives, some solar panels are classified as universal waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). However, others contain enough metals, like lead, to meet the definition of hazardous waste under RCRA. In many states, solar panels must be inspected to determine if they contain these materials classified as hazardous, and disposal methods are determined from there. In other states, like California, all solar panels are classified as universal waste, and recycling is required.
Federally, the EPA is preparing to propose a new rule that would reclassify solar panels from hazardous to universal waste—a move that could streamline recycling efforts and reduce regulatory barriers. In anticipation of this rule or similar state-specific rules, it’s important for those currently using or planning to integrate solar panels to know what disposal options are available and what regulations apply to them.
PV cells are, at a high level, comprised of three components that can be recycled and reused as raw materials for other products. These are aluminum, glass, and silicone. The aluminum framing is easily recyclable and can be used in almost all new aluminum products, while the silicone solar cells can be melted and repurposed for various applications. During the recovery process, the glass sheet is typically broken, and the fragments are recovered and used in new solar panels or other applications. By first separating the components, recyclers can more easily process them for their next lives in industries like electronics manufacturing.
Solar panel recycling offers more than just sustainability. The parsed-out materials reenter the market, not only providing economic benefits but also contributing to the security of the supply of finite raw materials and saving landfill airspace. By 2030, it’s estimated that the raw materials recovered from all PV panels combined could have a value of $450 million (in 2016 terms). That is equivalent to the amount needed to produce 60 million new solar panels.
These materials are valuable to manufacturers beyond those in the solar industry. With fewer solar panel manufacturers in the U.S. than in other regions, American recyclers aim to sell these recovered materials to non-solar industries so that these resources remain in circulation and continue to deliver environmental and economic benefits. This versatility and value are why we must consider solar panel recycling as standard practice for current and new solar energy projects.
At any stage of the solar panel lifecycle, solar panels may require disposal. From raw material mining to manufacturing, everyone has a stake in the game. During the installation of solar farms alone, an estimated 5%–10% of panels are tested and found to be defective, requiring proper disposal. As a purchaser, it’s best practice to have a disposal plan in place at the project’s inception, not just end-of-life disposal, but also if a solar panel breaks during transportation or installation, or a natural disaster destroys several units. In all cases, recycling can be a viable disposal method.
As we prepare for the influx of solar energy as the primary renewable energy source, we must also prepare for solar panel disposal. In the U.S., waste and recycling companies may begin offering their existing and new customers increased options for solar panel recycling. Experienced recycling partners like Clean Earth are uniquely positioned to help solar stakeholders navigate evolving regulations and implement scalable, compliant recycling solutions across the panel lifecycle.
—Sergio Nusimovich is vice president of Engineering and Technical Director at Clean Earth.
Modern process industries are experiencing fluctuating market conditions and tight operational margins, leading chemical engineers to rely on real-time data to boost efficiency and reduce costs. Yet, many organizations are at different stages in their digital transformation journey. Some are just starting, while others are looking to optimize existing solutions. This webinar explores practical ways […]
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Better Business Bureau
Many homeowners are going solar to save money, to go “off the grid” or to make a positive impact on the environment. No matter the reason, installing a solar system is a big purchase with many aspects to consider.
Be cautious when evaluating installation offers, as scammers may use misleading sales tactics to trick homeowners out of money and personal information.
You may be contacted by someone claiming to represent a solar company through email, phone, social media or even in person. They promote a special deal, offering to install solar panels at little or no cost.
In reality those offers often involve financing that is not clearly explained. What sounds like a free or low-cost installation may actually be a long-term loan with monthly payments. Some offers also may require credit checks or quick contract approvals, which can be a sign to slow down and review the details carefully.
One Ohio consumer reported they were told they could get solar panels at no cost. After asking more questions, they learned they had actually been approved for a $52,000 loan with monthly payments. The consumer said the offer was misrepresented, and the financing details were not clearly explained.
—Ask for referrals and research local solar installers. Ask friends and family members who already went solar for referrals. Search online for local solar installers and research each company carefully. Read customer reviews and check out the company’s business rating at BBB.org. As you learn more about each installer, pay attention to the cost of installation, the equipment they use, the quality of their work and how many years of experience they have with solar systems.
—Get competing bids. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, get estimates from at least three installers. Make sure each estimate details the same kinds of systems and installations to better compare.
—Ask plenty of questions and consider the answers. Ask questions about any aspect of a contract or proposal you don’t understand. If the company gets upset about your questions, refuses to answer them or is vague with their answers, consider it a red flag.
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Legendary Hiland coach recognized for lifelong contributions to Ohio high school basketball
Hawks top Chippewa, fall to Orrville, McKinley
Girls finish fourth, boys fifth in meet near Zanesville with standout performances in shot put and relay events
Isaiah Wagler’s game-winning hit secures 1-0 victory in Inter-Valley Conference matchup
Gilmore to begin role Aug. 1, bringing leadership from Waynedale High School
Students to showcase art and music April 17 at West Holmes High School
Classes offer diverse art opportunities for all ages
Students achieve top rankings in multiple agricultural competitions across Ohio
After 45 years a beloved staff member known for her hugs and dedication to students will step down as the new school building nears completion
Organizational meeting and officer elections March 14 near Millersburg
Sonnenberg Mennonite Church hosts breakfast fundraiser April 25
New single-hung and single-slider options offer durability and efficiency
Airport Authority plans new hangars after razing damaged structures
Fredy Robles brings decades of experience in behavioral health and nonprofit leadership
Historian to explore western perspective on causes of the war
Local leaders focus on education and road improvements to address growing e-bike usage among Amish community
Melway Paving to repave 19.5 miles under budget, with potential for additional projects
Free sessions in May will focus on health, safety and wellness for older adults
J. Miller & Sons to revitalize sites, aiding Nashville water project
Donna L. Point, born Sept. 20, 1936, near Elida, Ohio, to the late John and Ethel (Layman) Powell, died Apr. 13, 2026, in her home near Kenton, Ohio, aged 89 years, 6 months and 24 days.
Betty L. Cap, 82, of Baltic, Ohio, passed away at her daughter’s home in Dover on April 14, 2026.
Ervin A. Miller, 83, of Millersburg, Ohio, passed away on April 9, 2026, at Walnut Hills Nursing Home following a period of declining health.
Wayne E. Miller, 79, of Millersburg, went home to be with the Lord, Tuesday April 7, 2026, at Akron General Hospital.
Cody Yoder, 6-month-old son of John Henry and Sara J. (Raber) Yoder, of Millersburg, passed away at his residence surrounded by his family on Monday, April 6, 2026, from Epidermolysis Bullosa.
Heaven just got a little rowdier. Robert “Bob” Rowe of Millersburg decided to take the stairway to heaven on April 5, 2026. He was born on May 12,1942 to Clifford and Leora (Chaney) Rowe.
Millersburg’s Guggisberg triumphs at World Championship Cheese Contest in Wisconsin
Sugarcreek’s family-owned Christian bookstore celebrates new ownership with anniversary sale
Local business expands by assuming Jacob & Levi’s enterprise zone agreement, ensuring continued growth and job creation
Holmes County thrift shop supports Rails to Trails with Benefit Day fundraiser
Annual event features over 30,000 items and nearly 300 vendors from Feb. 19-21.

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Researchers from the University of Rhode Island explored why citizens who voiced pro-solar sentiments voted against a solar project development in a 2019 municipal referendum. Their analysis found objections over land use greatly outweigh proximity concerns.
Cow grazing near solar panels
Image: Micha Sager on Unsplash
Land use concerns outweigh proximity worries when it comes to local public support for new solar developments, new research suggests.
A research team at the University of Rhode Island used the example of a 2019 municipal referendum on a utility-scale solar proposal in the town of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, to understand why citizens with pro-solar attitudes voted against the proposal. Their findings are presented in the research paper “Social gap at the ballot box: Using a municipal referendum to understand why general support for solar energy decline, available in the journal Energy Research & Social Science.”
The paper says the referendum came at a time when Rhode Island was “a couple years deep into grappling with the realities of utility-scale solar development.”
“Siting became highly contentious because most proposed and developed solar arrays were on forest and farm land, which resulted in a loss of ecosystem services and rural character,” the paper adds. “In many ways, North Kingstown can be seen as a microcosm of a larger debate because siting patterns and land use conflicts are similar elsewhere in the United States and around the world.”
In order to identify the existence of an individual support gap, defined as having pro-solar attitudes but voting no in the referendum, the research team developed and conducted an exit poll survey at polling locations, asking voters about their referendum vote, attitude to solar energy in general and standard demographics.
Corey Lang, professor of environmental and natural resource economics at the University of Rhode Island and corresponding author of the report, told pv magazine that to the team’s knowledge, this is the first paper to quantitatively assess the social gap at an individual level.
While the referendum passed relatively easily, with 66.5% approval, the researchers found that of the voters having pro-solar attitudes, 28.9% voted no and therefore exhibited an individual support gap.
“Key drivers of this behavior, in comparison to voters who support solar energy in general and in this specific project, are less trust in government, not believing in anthropogenic climate change and having only weakly positive attitudes about solar,” Lang explained.
“While this particular referendum passed, pro-solar attitudes are the norm in North Kingstown,” the research paper adds. “However, thinking about other locations with less positive solar attitudes, one can easily imagine how a 29% drop in approval could lead to a failed proposal.”
The team’s exit poll also included a survey experiment covering two hypothetical solar developments – an installation in a nearby town covering 20 acres of forested land and another proposing rooftop arrays in North Kingstown on school and municipal building rooftops – in order to determine how the land use and proximity of the array influences support levels.
“Our results suggest that land use concerns, deforestation, massively outweigh proximity concerns, suggesting that qualified support is two to three times larger of a determinant of support gap behavior than self-interest,” Lang said.
Lang added that while the specific quantitative findings of this research may not apply to every proposed solar project, the general findings would, pointing to other studies corroborating people’s concerns around deforestation and land use change.
“The support gap will always be there, so it will impact every project,” he explained. “It will always be there because supporting solar in general is very easy because it’s abstract. As soon as a project takes on specific characteristics, people will start objecting. That alone creates a support gap.”
Lang also told pv magazine that two key findings stand out when trying to minimize the support gap.
“First, establish trust with stakeholders and residents,” he said. “Second, select sites that do not require deforestation. Both factors greatly increase support and reduce the size of the support gap.”
This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
More articles from Patrick Jowett
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