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Zacks Equity Research November 13, 2026
FSLR Quick QuoteFSLR RUN Quick QuoteRUN TYGO Quick QuoteTYGO
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Chicago, IL – November 13, 2026 – Today, Zacks Equity Research discusses First Solar (FSLR Quick QuoteFSLR – Free Report) , Sunrun (RUN Quick QuoteRUN – Free Report) and Tigo Energy, Inc. (TYGO Quick QuoteTYGO – Free Report) .
Industry: Solar
Link: https://www.zacks.com/commentary/3028305/3-solar-stocks-to-watch-amid-policy-and-interest-rate-headwinds
The U.S. solar market is witnessing growing demand for solar energy and battery storage across the United States, driven by rising electricity consumption, higher power prices, corporate decarbonization commitments and increasing energy requirements from data centers. It is expected to expand significantly in the coming years, supported by rising utility-scale installations and the growing role of solar and battery storage in meeting the country’s electricity needs. 
However, the industry faces challenges from shifting trade policies, including tariffs and import restrictions, which could increase equipment costs, disrupt supply chains and delay project development, while encouraging greater domestic manufacturing. A couple of prominent companies that solar investors may want to monitor are First Solar, Sunrun and Tigo Energy, Inc.
About the Industry
The Zacks Solar industry can be fundamentally categorized into two groups of companies. One is involved in designing and producing high-efficiency solar modules, panels and cells, while the other is engaged in installing grids and, in some cases, entire solar power systems. The industry includes several companies engaged in manufacturing solar power inverters that transform electricity produced by solar panels into grid-compatible power. Per a U.S. Energy Information Administration (“EIA”) report, solar’s share of U.S. electricity generation will be 8% in 2026 and 10% in 2027. It remains the nation’s dominant form of new generating capacity.
3 Trends Shaping the Future of the Solar Industry
Strong Demand Supports Solar Market Growth: Across the United States, utilities and commercial businesses are increasingly adopting solar energy combined with battery storage to address rising demand for affordable, reliable and cleaner electricity. Higher electricity prices and corporate decarbonization commitments are making solar power more economically attractive, while battery storage enhances reliability by providing backup power during grid disruptions and outages. 
Growing electricity consumption from data centers is also emerging as a major driver of demand for renewable energy and storage solutions. The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other digital services is prompting hyperscalers and technology companies to invest heavily in large-scale solar and battery storage projects. These investments will help companies secure sufficient power to support their expanding operations while making progress toward their emissions-reduction and net-zero targets.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (“SEIA”), in collaboration with Wood Mackenzie, presents a cautiously positive outlook for the U.S. solar industry. The report highlights that the U.S. solar market is expected to approximately double between 2026 and 2031, supported by rising electricity demand, increasing utility-scale installations and the growing importance of solar and battery storage in meeting the country’s power requirements. 
However, the expansion is expected to be gradual, with annual capacity additions remaining relatively flat at around 44 GWdc over the next five years.
Shifting Trade Policies Influence Solar Industry Economics: According to SEIA, trade policies and import restrictions are reshaping the U.S. solar industry’s supply chain and influencing project costs. The imposition of additional tariffs on Chinese solar products, duties on steel and aluminum imports, and trade investigations involving solar products from Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia, are increasing uncertainty around equipment sourcing and pricing. 
These measures could make imported solar components more expensive, raising procurement and development costs for solar projects. At the same time, they may encourage developers and manufacturers to diversify their supply chains and increase reliance on domestically produced solar equipment.
SEIA further noted that these trade measures are influencing domestic manufacturing decisions. The United States has expanded its solar module manufacturing capacity, but domestic manufacturers still depend on imported solar cells and other components. Consequently, restrictions on imports could create supply shortages, increase equipment prices and delay project development.
Rising Interest Rates Threaten Solar Industry Growth Prospects: Higher Federal Reserve interest rates are generally a headwind for the U.S. solar industry because solar projects require substantial upfront capital investment and often depend on long-term financing. When interest rates remain elevated, developers face higher borrowing costs, making it more expensive to finance utility-scale solar farms, commercial installations and battery storage projects. Higher financing costs can weigh on project profitability, dampen investor interest and prompt developers to delay or abandon projects that fail to meet return expectations.
Sunrun explicitly discussed the impact of higher interest rates in its third-quarter 2026 earnings call on Nov. 4, 2026. Management indicated that persistently elevated interest rates had a modest impact on its projected 2026 results. However, it cautioned that capital costs could rise in 2027 if interest rates remain at current levels.
Zacks Industry Rank Reflects Gloomy Outlook
The Zacks Solar industry is housed within the broader ZacksOils-Energy sector. It currently carries a Zacks Industry Rank #150, which places it in the bottom 39% of more than 247 Zacks industries.
The group’s Zacks Industry Rank, which is basically the average of the Zacks Rank of all the member stocks, indicates bleak near-term prospects. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
The industry’s position in the bottom 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries is due to a negative earnings outlook for the constituent companies in aggregate. Looking at the aggregate earnings estimate revisions, it appears that analysts have lost confidence in this group’s earnings growth potential over the past few months. The industry’s bottom-line estimate for the current fiscal year has moved down 6.7% to $1.40 since Aug. 31.
Before we present a few solar stocks that you may want to consider for your portfolio, let’s take a look at the industry’s recent stock-market performance and valuation picture.
Industry Lags Sector & S&P 500
The solar industry has underperformed both its sector and the Zacks S&P 500 composite over the past year. The stocks in this industry have collectively lost 36.5% over the past year, while the Oils-Energy sector has risen 25%. The Zacks S&P 500 composite has surged 9.4% over the same time frame.
Industry’s Current Valuation
On the basis of the trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA, which is commonly used for valuing solar stocks, the industry is currently trading at 9.23X compared with the S&P 500’s 16.03X and the sector’s 5.49X.
Over the past five years, the industry has traded as high as 33.13X, as low as 4.55X and at the median of 12.26X.
3 Solar Stocks to Watch
Sunrun: Based in San Francisco, CA, the company develops, owns, manages and sells residential solar energy systems. The company offers solar services through three channels: direct-to-consumer, solar partner and strategic partnership. Sunrun reported third-quarter 2026 revenues of $1.10 billion, up 52% year over year, while net income attributable to common stockholders increased to $153.2 million from $16.6 million in the prior-year quarter. 
The company continued to see growth in its direct business, with installations rising 9% year over year. Its storage-first strategy gained traction, as the storage attachment rate reached a record 75%, compared with 70% a year ago, while networked storage capacity expanded to 5.0 GWh.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Sunrun’s 2026 earnings per share (EPS) indicates an improvement of 2.9% from the prior-year reported figure. The consensus estimate for 2026 sales indicates an improvement of 17.2% year over year. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. 
First Solar: Based in Tempe, AZ, the company is a leading global provider of comprehensive PV solar energy solutions and specializes in designing, manufacturing, and selling solar electric power modules using a proprietary thin-film semiconductor technology. First Solar reported third-quarter 2026 net sales of $1.23 billion, down 23% year over year, primarily due to lower third-party module sales volumes. 
However, net income increased 25% to $571 million, or $5.30 per diluted share, compared with $456 million, or $4.24 per share, in the prior-year quarter. Its contracted sales backlog was 44 GW as of Sept. 30, 2026. First Solar also authorized a $500 million share repurchase program, signaling management’s confidence in the company’s long-term prospects. 
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for First Solar’s 2026 EPS indicates an improvement of 24.6% from the prior-year reported figure. The consensus estimate for 2027 EPS indicates growth of 40% year over year. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). 
Tigo Energy: Based in Campbell, CA, the company is a provider of intelligent solar and energy storage solutions. Tigo Energy is set to benefit from the launch of its next-generation software-enhanced Tigo GO Battery in North America. It reported third-quarter 2026 revenues of $24.0 million, down 21.5% year over year. However, the company returned to GAAP profitability, recording net income of $0.4 million compared to a net loss of $2.2 million in the prior-year quarter. 
Gross margin improved to 46.2% from 42.7%, supported by a better cost structure, while operating expenses declined 10% to $11.2 million. Tigo Energy shipped 698,000 units, representing 517 MW of Module Level Power Electronics, during the quarter. The company updated its full-year 2026 revenue outlook to $95-$97 million and plans to prioritize investments in faster-growing markets, particularly Eastern Europe and Australia, to expand market share in 2027.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 EPS indicates an increase of 116.7% from the prior-year reported figure. The consensus estimate for 2027 sales implies an improvement of 3.58% year over year. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3. 
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Clear skies. Low 24F. Winds light and variable..
Clear skies. Low 24F. Winds light and variable.
Updated: November 13, 2026 @ 9:15 pm
FILE – Workers put switches and connectors after they come out of automated framing at a ReNew solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, India, Aug. 21, 2025.
FILE – Workers travel in a vehicle past transmission towers toward the construction site of Adani Green Energy Limited’s Renewable Energy Park in the salt desert of Karim Shahi village, near Khavda, Bhuj district near the India-Pakistan border in the western state of Gujarat, India, Sept. 21, 2023.
FILE – Solar panels cover the land at the Unchahar solar power plant, Raebareli district, India, Oct. 15, 2026.
FILE – Employees work on a wind turbine blade at the Adani New Industries Limited in the port town of Mundra in Western India’s Gujarat state, India, Sept. 20, 2023.
FILE – Lights are reflected in the Sabarmati River from the coal-based AMGEN power plant of Torrent Power in Ahmedabad, India, March 27, 2023.

FILE – Workers put switches and connectors after they come out of automated framing at a ReNew solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, India, Aug. 21, 2025.
FILE – Workers travel in a vehicle past transmission towers toward the construction site of Adani Green Energy Limited’s Renewable Energy Park in the salt desert of Karim Shahi village, near Khavda, Bhuj district near the India-Pakistan border in the western state of Gujarat, India, Sept. 21, 2023.
FILE – Solar panels cover the land at the Unchahar solar power plant, Raebareli district, India, Oct. 15, 2026.
FILE – Employees work on a wind turbine blade at the Adani New Industries Limited in the port town of Mundra in Western India’s Gujarat state, India, Sept. 20, 2023.
FILE – Lights are reflected in the Sabarmati River from the coal-based AMGEN power plant of Torrent Power in Ahmedabad, India, March 27, 2023.
BENGALURU, India (AP) — With the United Nations climate talks underway, India has set an ambitious goal of installing enough clean power to supply more than 1 billion homes by 2035, and has approved nearly $20 billion in power grid upgrades to ease bottlenecks that prevent some solar and wind energy from reaching consumers.
The world’s most populous country and one of the biggest carbon polluters is also among the fastest to expand clean power. Accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels is a key goal of this year’s climate talks, known as COP31, in Turkey.
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Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Construction Review

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Published on Nov 13, 2026
Eugene Frank
The 800MW Springwell solar farm project in Lincolnshire, England, has cleared a major legal obstacle after the High Court rejected an attempt by two local authorities to challenge its government approval. The ruling removes a significant legal hurdle for the proposed 800MW renewable energy project, which is expected to become the UK’s largest solar farm by generating capacity once developed.
The legal challenge was brought by Reform UK-led Lincolnshire County Council and Conservative-led North Kesteven District Council. Both authorities had sought to overturn the government’s April 2026 approval, arguing that the planning decision did not adequately consider the project’s potential effects on rural communities, surrounding landscapes and agricultural land.
However, on November 11, 2026, Mr Justice Kimblin ruled that the councils’ proposed challenge could not proceed. The judge considered the alleged procedural defects in the government’s assessment not arguable, effectively preventing the judicial review from advancing to a full hearing.
The ruling represents a significant development for the project, which is being jointly developed by EDF power solutions UK and Luminous Energy.
With the legal challenge unsuccessful, the developers can continue preparations to move the project towards construction.
Springwell Solar Farm is an 800MW utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) project proposed on approximately 1,280 hectares (3,163 acres) of predominantly agricultural land between Lincoln and Sleaford in North Kesteven, Lincolnshire.
The project will comprise ground-mounted solar PV panels and battery energy storage facilities. It will also have an on-site substation and electricity transmission infrastructure. Once construction in complete, Springwell solar farm will connect to the National Grid. This will be through a proposed new 400kV substation at Navenby. The connection will also be supported by an underground cable connection.

Once operational, the facility is expected to generate enough electricity to supply more than 180,000 homes annually. This is equivalent to about half of all households in Lincolnshire.
Additionally, Springwell solar farm is designed to operate for 40 years. After the four decades, the solar panels and associated infrastructure can be removed and the land restored for agricultural use.
An important feature of the development is its land-use strategy. Although the overall project covers approximately 1,280 hectares, 623 hectares, is allocated to above-ground infrastructure such as solar panels, battery storage and the substation.  This is equivalent to around 48% of the site. The remaining area is intended to accommodate landscaping, ecological enhancements, recreational facilities and opportunities for continued agricultural production.
The developers also propose approximately 12km of new footpaths, more than 15km of hedgerows and a community growing area.
The Springwell solar farm project has faced considerable opposition from local authorities and community campaigners, particularly over its proposed use of agricultural land and its potential impact on rural landscapes.
Lincolnshire County Council and North Kesteven District Council argued that the government’s assessment did not adequately address several important issues. These include:
The councils also initially opposed the development during the planning examination. They subsequently pursued legal action after the government granted development consent to Springwell solar farm on April 8, 2026.
Their judicial review application was formally submitted in May 2026. The authorities also identifying nine grounds on which they believed the government’s decision should be challenged.
However, the High Court ruling on Wednesday this week rejected the request for the case to advance to a full judicial review hearing.
The legal outcome is significant for Springwell solar farm project. This is because it leaves the government’s development consent in place, allowing the project to continue through its pre-construction preparations.

The Springwell Solar Farm is jointly backed by EDF power solutions UK and Luminous Energy, combining the former’s renewable energy investment and delivery capabilities with the latter’s experience in developing utility-scale solar and energy storage projects.
EDF power solutions UK, formerly known as EDF Renewables UK, is part of the EDF Group. The company is responsible for developing and investing in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar, battery storage, onshore wind and offshore wind projects.
Luminous Energy is a UK-based renewable energy developer established in 2013. It develops solar and battery storage projects across several international markets, including the UK, United States, Chile and Australia.
The company is working alongside EDF power solutions to advance the Springwell development through planning, construction preparation and eventual operation.
National Grid is a critical infrastructure stakeholder in the project. Springwell has a grid connection agreement allowing it to export up to 800MW of electricity through a proposed new National Grid substation at Navenby.
Importantly, the Navenby substation is a separate National Grid development and does not form part of the Springwell Solar Farm development consent itself. Its delivery is therefore an important dependency for the project’s planned grid connection.
Springwell solar farm project is estimated to cost approximately £922 million (US$878 million). The project also includes several significant infrastructure components beyond the solar panels themselves. These include battery storage, electrical substations and underground grid connection infrastructure.
One of the project’s notable community commitments is an annual benefit fund of £400 per megawatt of installed capacity. At the proposed 800MW capacity, this would represent up to £320,000 annually if the full planned capacity is installed.
Additional community and environmental provisions include:
The project also has an anticipated operational lifespan of approximately 40 years.
Following the April 2026 Development Consent Order and the November 2026 High Court ruling, the project remains in the pre-construction phase. The developers have indicated that electricity exports to the National Grid are planned to begin in 2029.
Further site surveys, construction planning, procurement and coordination with National Grid will be important milestones before the development enters full construction.

The High Court decision is a considerable victory for the project’s developers, but several important delivery questions remain.
First, the developers must progress from pre-construction preparations to actual construction. This includes finalizing the implementation program, undertaking additional site investigations and coordinating the procurement and installation of solar panels, battery storage systems and electrical infrastructure.
Second, the proposed Navenby substation remains a particularly important consideration. Since the substation is being developed separately by National Grid, its delivery and commissioning must align with Springwell’s construction and grid connection program.
Third, the project will need to maintain engagement with surrounding communities. This is especially important given the strong opposition that emerged during the planning and legal processes.
Additionally, the unsuccessful judicial review does not necessarily end local opposition. Community concerns surrounding agricultural land, landscape changes and the cumulative impact of large-scale solar developments in Lincolnshire are likely to remain part of the wider debate over Britain’s renewable energy expansion, as seen with projects such as the 800MW Tillbridge Solar Project.
Nevertheless, with government development consent intact and the latest legal challenge dismissed, Springwell solar farm is in a stronger position to advance towards its planned 2029 electricity export target.
If delivered as proposed, the 800MW Springwell solar farm project will represent a major addition to Britain’s utility-scale solar capacity. It will also demonstrate the growing importance of large-scale renewable energy and battery storage infrastructure in the country’s transition towards cleaner electricity.
Project type: Utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage
Location: North Kesteven, Lincolnshire, England
Developer: Springwell Energy Farm Ltd
Project partners: EDF power solutions UK and Luminous Energy
Proposed generating capacity: 800MW
Site area: 1,280 hectares (3,163 acres)
Above-ground infrastructure area: 623 hectares
Expected electricity supply: More than 180,000 homes annually
Battery storage: Included. Final capacity not yet established.
Grid connection: Proposed 400kV connection to National Grid’s Navenby substation
Planning approval: April 8, 2026
Judicial review challenge: Rejected November 11, 2026
Court: High Court of England and Wales
Judge: Mr Justice Kimblin
Project status: Pre-construction as of November 2026
Target electricity export: 2029
Expected operational lifespan: 40 years
Community benefit fund: £400/MW annually
Proposed footpaths: 12km
Proposed hedgerows: More than 15km
Grid infrastructure stakeholder: National Grid
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Tunisia’s Société Tunisienne de l’Electricité et du Gaz (STEG) has secured a €50 million financing package from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) to finance a solar power plant integrated with Tunisia’s first utility-scale battery energy storage system.
The project, located in Beni Mhira in the southern governorate of Tataouine, will comprise a 50 MWac solar photovoltaic plant integrated with a 10 MW/20 MWh battery energy storage system. It will also include a 1.2 km high-voltage transmission line connecting the facility to the national grid.
The package consists of a €30 million sovereign-guaranteed loan from EBRD alongside technical cooperation. The remaining €20 million concessional loan will come from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF). Under the Global Energy Storage Program, the CTF’s concessional financing makes the investment more affordable and supports the deployment of battery storage technology in Tunisia.
Combining solar generation with battery storage aims to increase the flexibility of Tunisia’s power system as more renewable capacity comes online. The battery storage stores excess electricity generated during peak sunlight hours and then supplies it to the grid when demand increases or when solar generation drops. 
As the country’s first utility-scale battery storage project, the investment will also help STEG to develop the technical and operational capabilities needed to integrate storage into the national grid.
Aida Sitdikova, Director of Sustainable Infrastructure, Middle East and Africa: “Tunisia has outstanding solar potential, and storage will help the country to make greater use of it. This first utility-scale battery is an important milestone for Tunisia’s energy security and its energy transition. Beyond the asset itself, it will help build the experience and frameworks needed for further storage projects, including private-sector investments.”
Faycel Tarifa, Chief Executive Officer of STEG: “This project marks a new chapter for STEG and for Tunisia’s power system. As our grid takes on more renewable energy, the ability to store and dispatch it becomes essential to keep supply secure and reliable. With Tunisia’s first utility-scale battery, STEG will build the know-how to operate storage at scale and integrate it into the national grid. We thank the EBRD and the Clean Technology Fund for their continued trust and support in this important step.”
The project is part of STEG’s wider programme to develop 380 MWac of solar generation capacity and 100 MWh of battery storage, and is aligned with Tunisia’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels.
It builds on the EBRD’s longstanding support for Tunisia’s power sector, including grid reinforcement, the first large-scale private renewable energy projects, and the ELMED electricity interconnector between Tunisia and Italy.
www.ebrd.com
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Upfront Ventures has backed Outer Spaces, whose backyard structures combine solar generation and battery storage, giving homeowners an alternative to rooftop panels.
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FILE – Workers put switches and connectors after they come out of automated framing at a ReNew solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, India, Aug. 21, 2025.
FILE – Workers travel in a vehicle past transmission towers toward the construction site of Adani Green Energy Limited’s Renewable Energy Park in the salt desert of Karim Shahi village, near Khavda, Bhuj district near the India-Pakistan border in the western state of Gujarat, India, Sept. 21, 2023.
FILE – Solar panels cover the land at the Unchahar solar power plant, Raebareli district, India, Oct. 15, 2026.
FILE – Employees work on a wind turbine blade at the Adani New Industries Limited in the port town of Mundra in Western India’s Gujarat state, India, Sept. 20, 2023.
FILE – Lights are reflected in the Sabarmati River from the coal-based AMGEN power plant of Torrent Power in Ahmedabad, India, March 27, 2023.

FILE – Workers put switches and connectors after they come out of automated framing at a ReNew solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, India, Aug. 21, 2025.
FILE – Workers travel in a vehicle past transmission towers toward the construction site of Adani Green Energy Limited’s Renewable Energy Park in the salt desert of Karim Shahi village, near Khavda, Bhuj district near the India-Pakistan border in the western state of Gujarat, India, Sept. 21, 2023.
FILE – Solar panels cover the land at the Unchahar solar power plant, Raebareli district, India, Oct. 15, 2026.
FILE – Employees work on a wind turbine blade at the Adani New Industries Limited in the port town of Mundra in Western India’s Gujarat state, India, Sept. 20, 2023.
FILE – Lights are reflected in the Sabarmati River from the coal-based AMGEN power plant of Torrent Power in Ahmedabad, India, March 27, 2023.
BENGALURU, India (AP) — With the United Nations climate talks underway, India has set an ambitious goal of installing enough clean power to supply more than 1 billion homes by 2035, and has approved nearly $20 billion in power grid upgrades to ease bottlenecks that prevent some solar and wind energy from reaching consumers.
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Africa’s largest copper mine is now running on solar baseload power thanks to a large-scale solar-plus-storage power plant.
The Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, located in the Central African Copperbelt near Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been powered by a 233 MW solar plant coupled with a 123 MVA/526 MWh battery energy storage system since the facility entered commercial operation on Aug. 12. The system provides the copper complex with a continuous 30 MW power supply, with output currently peaking at 55 MW.
The facility is owned and operated by project developers CrossBoundary Energy, with Germany’s Dhybrid Power Systems GmbH responsible for engineering the battery system and providing the facility’s control platform.
Figures provided by Dhybrid state that during its first month of operation, the facility displaced around 4 million liters of diesel, worth roughly $11 million.
The project combines over 357,000 solar modules from Aiko, Sungrow solar inverters and medium-voltage stations, battery containers from Risen SYL and EPC Power power conversion systems.
Dhybrid says its universal power platform (UPP) acts as the central control layer for the entire plant, coordinating the solar and battery inverters, power quality meters, protection relays, meteorological sensors, UPS and HVAC units and managed network switches, equating to over 1,300 devices in total.
A statement from the company explains the UPP’s forecasting algorithm tells the operator twenty-four hours ahead what the plant can deliver. “The operator sets the value, and the platform decides every second how to split up to 180 MW of solar between the mine and the batteries, how far to charge for the night, and how to hold the setpoint through cloud cover and load swings,” the statement explains. “The customer only sees constant power output.”
Dhybrid has been awarded a contract to expand the battery system by a further 35 MWh, to an installed capacity of 561 MWh, with targeted commercial operations in January 2027.
The complex has also set a target of raising its on-site solar baseload capacity to 120 MW within 18 months.
The project is the DRC’s largest operational solar asset, according to figures available in the Africa Solar Industry Association’s (AFISA) project database. The database lists a total 1,381 MW of operational solar in the country, alongside a further 132 MW under construction.
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In Talatan, Qinghai Province, 609 square kilometers of Gobi terrain were once described by locals as a place where “wind blows stones across the ground and not a blade of grass grows,” suffering from a 98.5% desertification rate. Today, over seven million photovoltaic (PV) panels stretch across the plateau—forming the world’s largest solar park by installed capacity.
Yet what captured global social media attention was a flock of sheep: as wild grasses flourished beneath the shade of the solar arrays, local herders moved their flocks into the park to graze. Images of this “solar-grazing” (agrivoltaic) synergy went viral overseas—and were soon reposted by a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, drawing millions of views worldwide.
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Sheep grazing peacefully beneath rows of solar panels in Qinghai. (Source: CNR photo)
The ecological metrics are equally striking: the massive solar arrays reduced local wind speeds by 50% and cut soil moisture evaporation by 30%, allowing vegetation coverage to rebound to 80% within three years. The barren desert transformed into a thriving pasture—so lush that local sheep reportedly required scheduled grazing limits to avoid overeating. This represents the greenest chapter of the “Chinamaxxing” narrative: international observers are captivated not just by the visual novelty, but by an integrated framework uniting ecological security with economic livelihoods.
A panoramic view of Talatan’s “solar sheep,” showing the sharp boundary between blue solar arrays and restored green grassland. (Source: Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Government photo)
Green Living Through Foreign Eyes: From City Streets to Offshore Winds
For international visitors, this green shift begins in everyday urban life. Shenzhen—the world’s first megacity to achieve 100% electrification of its public bus and taxi fleets—operates roughly 16,000 pure-electric buses, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 440,000 metric tons annually. The World Bank distributed Shenzhen’s transit electrification case study to its 189 member states as a blueprint for developing economies. When foreign travelers step onto Shenzhen’s streets, every taxi they hail is electric—demonstrating that low-carbon living is not a showroom exhibit, but the default factory setting of modern Chinese cities.
A fleet of pure-electric buses operating along Shenzhen’s avenues. (Source: Sohu photo)
A row of BYD electric taxis lined up at an urban fast-charging hub. (Source: Didi Chuxing photo)
Market adoption data underscores this scale: in 2025, global New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sales reached 23.542 million units, with China accounting for 70.3%. By comparison, annual EV penetration stood at 9.6% in the US and just over 20% in Europe. During the first three quarters of 2026, more than one in every two new passenger vehicles registered on Chinese roads bore a green license plate.
The other half of this energy transformation rises offshore as a “white forest” of wind turbines. Spanning 18,000 kilometers of coastline and over 3 million square kilometers of maritime territory, China is building the world’s largest offshore wind fleet, featuring massive 100-meter-class turbine blades that repeatedly break engineering records—including 102-meter and 123-meter blades hoisted into position high above open waters. By the end of 2025, China’s cumulative wind power capacity reached 640 GW (640 million kW). Combined with solar capacity, total wind and solar installations hit 1,840 GW (1.84 TW)—historically surpassing coal-dominated thermal power capacity for the first time.
Three Gorges Group hoists a 123-meter offshore wind turbine blade into place—an industrial spectacle over open waters. (Source: Tencent News photo)
Ecological Security: Nearly 4 in Every 10 Kilowatt-Hours Are Green
This transformation rests on newly released national energy figures. According to the National Energy Administration, China added 452 GW (452 million kW) of renewable energy capacity in 2025—a 21% year-on-year increase representing 83% of all new power generation capacity nationwide. By year-end, total renewable capacity reached 2,340 GW (2.34 TW), accounting for roughly 60% of the country’s entire power grid.
Even more notable is the structural shift in consumption: nearly four out of every ten kilowatt-hours consumed across Chinese society now come from clean energy, and 100% of the incremental growth in national electricity demand was met by newly added renewable generation. Behind these figures lies a binding national roadmap: raising non-fossil energy’s share of total primary energy consumption to roughly 25% by 2030, and exceeding 80% by 2060—treating carbon neutrality not as an abstract pledge, but as an operational schedule.
The Dual Impact of China’s Green Calling Card
The strategic value of this green transition lies in solving two challenges simultaneously. Domestically, it turns carbon constraints into industrial competitiveness: clean-tech sectors—spanning photovoltaics, wind turbines, EVs, and grid storage—accounted for 6.6% of China’s total exports in the first half of 2026. Internationally, Chinese clean-energy engineering offers developing nations a pathway to energy autonomy—from the Karawang solar plant powering 112,000 households in Indonesia to the RMB 13.962 billion ($1.92 billion) integrated solar-plus-storage megaproject in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
This commitment drew international recognition at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), which opened on November 9 in Antalya, Türkiye, gathering delegates from nearly 200 countries and regions under the theme “From Goals to Delivery.” On opening day, Stelios Pesmajoglou, Director of the Mitigation Division at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), addressed the Guangdong session at the China Pavilion. He praised green innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a “forward-looking and truly inspiring commitment,” commending Guangdong’s steady progress in carbon market infrastructure, carbon footprint tracking, and climate finance, while encouraging the region to contribute further “Bay Area solutions” to the global green transition. Former Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu echoed this sentiment: “China not only contributes to the international community; domestically, every measure it takes in green energy and related fields represents a monumental contribution to addressing global climate change.”
Delegates at the China Pavilion during COP31 commend China’s green transition and climate action initiatives. (Source: CGTN video screenshot)
Ecological security clears China’s skies, while clean electricity fortifies its industrial supply chains. When viral clips of “solar sheep” win admiration abroad and electric taxis in Shenzhen form the quiet everyday backdrop for visiting travelers, China’s green calling card achieves its most effective outreach: relying not on slogans, but on grass thriving beneath solar panels and quiet, low-emission cities—allowing the world to draw its own conclusions.

Chinamaxxing
** 博客文章文責自負,不代表本公司立場 **
BENGALURU, India (AP) — With the United Nations climate talks underway, India has set an ambitious goal of installing enough clean power to supply more than 1 billion homes by 2035, and has approved nearly $20 billion in power grid upgrades to ease bottlenecks that prevent some solar and wind energy from reaching consumers.
The world’s most populous country and one of the biggest carbon polluters is also among the fastest to expand clean power. Accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels is a key goal of this year’s climate talks, known as COP31, in Turkey.
India announced the 900-gigawatt goal in late September. It covers nonfossil power sources, including solar, wind, hydropower and nuclear energy. It is nearly twice India’s existing target of 500 gigawatts of clean power by 2030. India’s current clean power capacity of just over 300 gigawatts ranks it third behind China and the United States.
Experts say meeting the target could lower electricity costs, curb coal construction and accelerate the transition to clean energy.
The push comes as India struggles to use all the renewable electricity it can generate because of inadequate transmission infrastructure. The new goal refers to installed generating capacity, rather than the amount of electricity actually produced.
“If the grid doesn’t catch up, then there is no way India can meet this target,” Nikit Abhyankar from the India Energy and Climate Center at the University of California, Berkeley, said. “A robust and innovative transmission grid is an absolute must.”
The government also approved nearly $20 billion in funding for transmission infrastructure and battery storage under its Green Energy Corridor plan.
Economist Ajay Shah of the Mumbai-based XKDR Forum described the transition as the emergence of an Indian “electrostate,” in which electricity increasingly replaces coal and petroleum products.
“So now in India you have two assets — not only do you have cheap labor, you also have cheap energy,” Shah said.
The shift mirrors a global trend toward cleaner power, even as fossil fuel energy remains a key energy source amid rising electricity demand. Brazil, which ranks close behind India in clean energy capacity, projects renewables will supply nearly 90% of its electricity in the next decade, even as it expands oil and gas production. In the United States, where President Donald Trump supports fossil fuels, electricity demand is expected to grow by 40%, with natural gas remaining a major source.
India’s clean energy expansion could help industries replace costly imported fossil fuels with domestically produced electricity. Abhyankar said solar and wind power, even when combined with battery storage, are increasingly cost-competitive with power from coal, oil and natural gas.
Lower generation costs could eventually translate into cheaper electricity for households, though utilities also factor in transmission costs and other expenses.
However, India’s continued dependence on coal presents a major challenge to its clean energy transition. Coal generated about 71% of the country’s electricity in 2025, according to energy think tank Ember.
India’s power planners remain concerned about meeting growing demand and maintaining reliable electricity when solar and wind output fluctuates. Ghanshyam Prasad, chair of the Central Electricity Authority, said earlier this month that India could need as much as 150 gigawatts of additional coal-fired generating capacity by 2035.
Ember energy analyst Neshwin Rodrigues said coal will remain important for years, particularly until large-scale batteries can store solar energy to reliably meet demand when the sun isn’t shining.
Existing coal plants also pose operational challenges. Many cannot quickly reduce output when renewable electricity becomes available, making it difficult for the grid to accommodate growing solar and wind power.
Researchers at Berkeley estimate that beyond approximately 35 gigawatts of coal capacity already under construction, additional coal plants would not be economically necessary under the country’s new clean energy goals. Berkeley’s Abhyankar warned that newly built coal plants could become stranded assets if the government meets its renewable energy targets.
Meeting the 2035 target requires more than building more renewable power plants. Their electricity must be able to reach consumers.
India’s rapid clean energy expansion is already testing the grid’s limits. Although clean power accounted for 55% of installed power capacity by September, it generated about a third of the country’s electricity in the preceding three months, according to government data.
Over the past 16 months, India curtailed enough solar generation to power about 10 million homes because the grid could not accommodate it, according to government data and Ember.
The Green Energy Corridor plan aims to help states accommodate up to 135 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2033 by adding thousands of kilometers (miles) of transmission lines. The plan also includes additional battery storage.
But analysts question whether that’s enough. The Berkeley researchers estimate that India needs as much as 250 gigawatts of energy storage to integrate renewable electricity over the next decade.
“You either have more transmission to get the power out and transfer it. Or if you cannot get the power out, you store it and then transfer it during some other hours,” Ember’s Rodrigues said.
Shah, the economist, said two types of government policy could discourage investment in renewable energy: requirements that businesses pay higher rates to subsidize other consumers, and restrictions on electricity producers selling directly to private buyers.
He said India needs to allow electricity prices to rise and fall based on supply and demand, and make it easier for foreign investors to fund power projects. Domestic financing alone would not be enough to meet the country’s growing energy needs, he said.
“Currently, the government is a man in the middle, trying to interfere in a transaction between a private generator and a private buyer,” which creates a “choke point,” Shah said.
Battery supply chains pose another challenge, particularly India’s dependence on imported battery cells, mainly from China. Abhyankar said expanding domestic battery manufacturing could help India capture more economic benefits from the transition.
Despite those challenges, Abhyankar said India has already overtaken the United States in annual renewable energy growth, and its experience in expanding clean energy could be a model for other developing countries.
“What India is doing can be replicated in many countries in the Global South and can help these countries make the energy transition in an economically affordable manner,” he said.
Sibi Arasu can be followed on X at @sibi123. Reach him at sarasu@ap.org.
The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
FILE – Lights are reflected in the Sabarmati River from the coal-based AMGEN power plant of Torrent Power in Ahmedabad, India, March 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File)
FILE – Employees work on a wind turbine blade at the Adani New Industries Limited in the port town of Mundra in Western India’s Gujarat state, India, Sept. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool, File)
FILE – Solar panels cover the land at the Unchahar solar power plant, Raebareli district, India, Oct. 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh, File)
FILE – Workers travel in a vehicle past transmission towers toward the construction site of Adani Green Energy Limited’s Renewable Energy Park in the salt desert of Karim Shahi village, near Khavda, Bhuj district near the India-Pakistan border in the western state of Gujarat, India, Sept. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool, File)
FILE – Workers put switches and connectors after they come out of automated framing at a ReNew solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, India, Aug. 21, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)
© 2023 Bastillepost. All rights reserved.
© 2026 Bastillepost. All rights reserved.

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Energies Media
A vineyard needs the right amount of sun, shade, and airflow.
One Spanish winery has fitted agrivoltaic solar panels over its vines while still leaving the ground free for growing grapes and operating harvesting machinery. This provides shade for the vines while producing energy simultaneously.
But how can panels fare with crops that need sunlight?
Weather plays a large role in wine production. Temperature, sunlight, and rainfall impact the grape ripening cycle and the start of the harvest.
Rising temperatures are challenging for vineyards in Spain’s Penedès region. Warmer temperatures can speed up grape ripening, bringing harvests forward and affecting wine quality.
Wineries are rethinking ways to survive the heat without interfering with vineyard work.
An opportunity is provided by solar power. Wineries rely on electricity for their production, storage, and hospitality services, so having another source of generation on site can be very beneficial.
Vineyards require open rows for the vines, workers, and machinery. The challenge is to find space for the panels without taking away productive land.
The Familia Torres winery installed a pilot agrivoltaic system in its organic vineyard in the Penedès region of Catalonia.
The installation is part of the SOLARWINE project, which examines the use of photovoltaic technology in combination with wine production.
It will research the effect of the panels on the vineyard’s microclimate, on the grape development, and on energy production. Sensors will monitor soil and climate conditions to help the team compare agricultural and energy performance.
The electricity produced will be used for the Torres Brandy ageing cellars and the Familia Torres Restaurant Mas Rabell, both located nearby.
It is one of two SOLARWINE pilots, the other being in Castilla-La Mancha. Other trials include Virginia crops growing under solar panels.
The installation covers 1,000 square meters, with solar panels raised five meters above ground. That’s around 16 feet, which is enough room for a harvesting machine to pass underneath.
This allows harvesting machines to continue moving along the rows.
The pilot has two PV designs: opaque panels and semi-transparent bifacial panels. Opaque panels provide a solid cover, while semi-transparent panels let some light through.
Bifacial technology can capture sunlight from both sides of the panel.
By testing the two designs, it will be possible to compare their effect on harvest and electricity production.
Vines need sunlight, but the hot summer sun can cause heat stress. The panels are meant to shade the vines and protect them from direct sunlight. The goal is to slow grape ripening with rising temperatures and earlier harvests.
Sensors will determine whether the approach works in practice and if it is technically and economically feasible.
Another model is a Sicilian project that combines solar panels with sheep grazing.
The Penedès installation is not yet proof of increased wine production with elevated panels. It’s meant to show how elevated panels affect vines, the local environment, and energy output.
But it shows the potential of adding renewable generation to an existing agricultural operation.
If the results are positive, the trial could help guide the vineyards through hotter seasons and rising energy demands.
How can farms produce food and clean power without sacrificing either? That’s the question posed by Spain’s solar panels above a working olive grove.
The value of the project will be shown through the results over time. Vineyard owners will need sufficient evidence that adding the panels supports grape production overall. 
The project offers a practical example of how using agricultural land could serve two purposes at the same time, which could be a good solution in the end.
Bronwyn has over 20 years of experience in media, digital publishing, and storytelling as a journalist, content creator, and publishing editor. She writes about various niches and has a keen interest in science, technology, energy, and innovation.
Bronwyn has over 20 years of experience in media, digital publishing, and storytelling as a journalist, content creator, and publishing editor. She writes about various niches and has a keen interest in science, technology, energy, and innovation.
Bronwyn has over 20 years of experience in media, digital publishing, and storytelling as a journalist, content creator, and publishing editor. She writes about various niches and has a keen interest in science, technology, energy, and innovation.

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One of the largest floating solar developments in Southeast Asia, Chereh is expected to generate sufficient clean electricity to power the equivalent of 100,000 homes. The project will create around 1,500 jobs during development and construction.
The project combines Masdar’s floating solar experience, including its work on the 145MW Cirata project in Indonesia, with Citaglobal’s infrastructure and energy development capabilities and TIZA Global’s project development and local stakeholder engagement experience.
The ceremony was attended by His Royal Highness Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, the Sultan of Pahang; His Excellency Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Chief Minister of Pahang, together with senior leadership from the project partners.
Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, the Sultan of Pahang said, “Pahang is committed to supporting initiatives that advance sustainable development and create lasting value for our people. The Chereh Floating Solar Project reflects how our natural resources can be used responsibly to contribute to Malaysia’s renewable energy ambitions, while bringing opportunities for local communities and industry. I look forward to seeing the project deliver meaningful benefits for Pahang and the nation.”
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, commented, “Malaysia is a strategically important market for Masdar, with rising electricity demand, strong renewable energy potential and growing investment in advanced industries and digital infrastructure. As our first project in the country, Chereh marks an important milestone in our long-term commitment to Malaysia and our expansion across Southeast Asia.
“By combining Masdar’s global floating solar expertise with strong local partnerships, we will support Malaysia’s energy ambitions while creating jobs and new economic opportunities in Pahang.”
Financial close was reached on the project on October 27, with approximately 580 million MYR raised in Malaysian ringgit from three international lenders. The financing structure aligns project funding with future project revenues while attracting international capital into Malaysia’s renewable energy sector and supporting long-term local economic participation.
Chereh Solar Sdn Bhd signed the power purchase agreement (PPA) with Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Malaysia’s national utility company, in December 2025. The agreement provides for the sale of electricity generated by the project for 21 years from commercial operation. The project was secured through a competitive tender process under Malaysia’s Large Scale Solar (LSS) Cycle 5+ program, with the consortium’s bid offering the lowest tariff in the floating solar category.
Through its investment in Chereh Solar, Citaglobal is expanding its participation in renewable power generation alongside its established infrastructure activities. Chereh forms a key component of the Group’s New Energy platform, which spans solar, hydropower and Bio-CNG initiatives.
For Masdar, Chereh is its first project in Malaysia and will be the inaugural project under the 10-gigawatt renewable energy roadmap agreed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in 2023. Masdar is also progressing a feasibility study for a major floating solar installation at the Murum reservoir in Sarawak.
The partners will work closely with Malaysian authorities, local communities and stakeholders throughout development, construction and operations. A Site Agreement has also been signed with Pahang Water & Energy Resources to support the project’s development.
By using an existing reservoir for solar generation, the project reduces the need for land-based solar sites. Malaysia has targeted increasing the share of renewables in its installed electricity-generation capacity to 35% by 2030, with floating solar expected to contribute significantly to this target.

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Heavy rains flood shelters, damage solar power systems and threat essential healthcare services.
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Deir el-Balah, Gaza Strip – As the rain intensified, 65-year-old Abu Sajed rushed to place buckets and pots strategically around his modest room in central Gaza.
The stone walls and tarpaulin roof offered little protection to his makeshift home, east of Salah al-Din Street, near the “Yellow Line” in Bureij refugee camp.

“We could no longer stay in bed because of the heavy rain. We moved to chairs in the only part of the room the water had not reached and waited for the rain to stop,” said Abu Sajed, who has diabetes.
He searched for his blood glucose monitor in the darkness. But it was soaked and no longer working.
His family’s solar power system, used for lighting and charging phones, was also damaged. Water also flooded his daughter’s neighbouring tent, soaking her clothes and belongings and destroying the inverter connected to her solar system.
“I did not know what to do. I could not protect myself or my family. Even going to the toilet had become difficult because of all the water,” he said.
His ordeal continued after the rain stopped. The following morning, as he tried to leave the room, his foot slipped on the muddy floor and he fell. Because of poor health, he could not get up alone. His wife and daughter struggled to lift him.
“I felt helpless and exhausted,” he said.
Recent rainfall has added to Gaza’s suffering, and due to Israel’s siege, most people lack adequate housing.
But the impact extends beyond flooded shelters and damaged belongings. It also threatens the energy sources residents depend on, particularly amid Gaza’s continuing electricity crisis.
In a room inside a damaged building in northern Gaza, Mohammed al-Hour uses sunlight to charge people’s phones through his solar power system. But rainwater also seeps through the cracked walls and damaged ceiling of his room.
“People come to me asking to charge their phones, even for a little while, so they can have lighting at night. But when the clouds persist and the sun disappears, it becomes difficult,” he said. “Whether you live in a tent or a house, rainwater will find its way in. The bombardment has destroyed almost everything.”
Companies trying to maintain electricity services are struggling with the damage.
Despite preparations in advance of the winter, Abu Zayed Electricity Company could not prevent water from entering several facilities, damaging equipment and causing generators to malfunction. It temporarily suspended services at affected branches over fears of electrical contact and short circuits.
Aya Shaheen, the company’s general manager, said distribution panels and electricity metres were covered with plastic sheeting and tarpaulins, exposed wires were insulated, and municipalities were asked to pump out accumulated water. But the damage exceeded available resources.
“However much we try to prepare and protect our equipment, we continue to face major obstacles because of the extensive destruction of infrastructure,” she said. “Municipalities are also dealing with enormous pressure. Flooded tents need urgent intervention, so they cannot respond to every request for assistance.”
Water entered one of the company’s sites, even though its generators are housed in specially equipped prefabricated structures, Shaheen said. Restoring services and repairing equipment can take hours or days, depending on the damage.
According to UNICEF, the recent rainfall affected more than 106,000 people. About 950,000 displaced people live in flood-prone areas, including 400,000 in particularly high-risk locations.
A joint assessment by the World Bank, the United Nations and the European Union estimated that 80 percent of electricity generation and distribution assets had been destroyed or rendered inoperable during the war. This has severely limited access to reliable electricity, particularly as solar generation declines on cloudy days and equipment becomes vulnerable to water damage.
Mohammed Abu Khaled, an engineer specialising in energy systems and equipment used in the health sector, warns that rainwater entering solar systems can damage batteries and inverters, causing short circuits and corrosion of electronic circuits.
“The inverter is the weakest link and the component most likely to fail. It contains sensitive electronic circuit boards that are often not adequately protected against water,” he said.
He estimated that malfunctions in household solar systems and those used in displacement camps increased by more than 40 to 50 percent following recent rainfall. Repairing a damaged inverter can cost between $200 and $500, while families may have to replace an entire battery if it is damaged.
Solar panels’ electricity output can also drop by 60 to 80 percent on cloudy days, slowing battery charging and reducing the hours households can rely on stored electricity, he added.
The risks become more serious when rainwater reaches hospital equipment, particularly as many health facilities have been forced to operate from prefabricated structures and temporary buildings offering inadequate protection against the weather.
Abu Khaled said strong winds and heavy rainfall can cause water to seep into hospital departments, exposing operating-room equipment, portable oxygen generators, vital-signs monitors, laboratory devices and lighting systems to moisture and damage.
Some equipment has already been affected by damp conditions, adding pressure to healthcare facilities struggling with severely limited resources, he said.
As rainfall continues, Gaza’s residents face another winter with little infrastructure to protect them and few resources to replace damaged belongings and equipment.
With water seeping into shelters, electricity systems at risk of failure and medical equipment increasingly vulnerable, the weather is adding another burden to families struggling to maintain the most basic conditions for survival amid the destruction.

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APAC data center firm AirTrunk has signed a new energy contract in Australia.
The operator and European Energy Australia have signed an exclusivity agreement to progress two renewable energy projects in the Hunter region of New South Wales.

– AirTrunk

The proposed projects include a 260MW solar farm, an 800MWh+ battery project, and an up to 350MW wind project in the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone. The projects are expected to begin operating between 2030 (solar and battery) and 2032 (wind).
Robin Khuda, founder and CEO of AirTrunk, said: “Digital growth must bring new energy with it. The Australian government’s expectations and NSW’s guidelines set a high bar for the industry. This partnership is an important step towards delivering on that commitment.”
Catriona McLeod, managing director, European Energy Australia, added: “It’s great to see AirTrunk and the tech sector embracing renewable energy – partnerships like this allow us to bring more renewables online and add more energy to the grid.”
AirTrunk has committed to matching 100 percent of its electricity use with renewable energy by 2030 as part of its Net Zero 2030 target. In FY26, the company said around 73 percent of its electricity use was matched with renewable energy across its portfolio.
The company and European Energy Australia have previously partnered on the 31MW Mulwala Solar Farm in New South Wales, which officially opened this week. The farm includes a 100MWh battery. Construction on the farm began in September 2025, with the project including more than 25,000 panels.
“Having Mulwala operating at full output is an important step for our activities in Australia. We’ve taken the project through development, construction, energization and commissioning, and we are now delivering renewable electricity in New South Wales,” McLeod said last week.
Founded in 2018, AirTrunk was acquired by Blackstone and the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) for US$16.1bn in 2024, in what was the largest-ever deal in the space at the time.
The company has data center campuses in operation and under development in Sydney and Melbourne in Australia, as well as Singapore; Hong Kong; Johor, Malaysia; Tokyo and Osaka, Japan. Earlier this year, the company announced it had acquired Indian operator Lumina CloudInfra, officially marking its entrance into India.
Denmark-based European Energy was founded in 2004 and develops solar and wind farms. It has more than 2GW of projects in operation and development around Australia.

Empowering data centers for sustainability & cost savings

AWS in-row heat exchanger to reduce water use by 9% over evaporative air-cooled data centers

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SubCo plans three subea cables in Indo-Pacific

AirTrunk to delay IPO amid rising interest rates – report

Firmus proposes third data center project in Tasmania

Read the orginal article: https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/en/news/airtrunk-signs-1gw-energy-deal-with-european-energy-australia/

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Duke Energy plans 4 new Central Florida solar farms, projects $1B in customer savings  The Business Journals
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Renewables Now is a leading business news source for renewable energy professionals globally. Trust us for comprehensive coverage of major deals, projects and industry trends. We’ve done this since 2009.
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The Intelligent Energy Association has reached a major milestone in its fight against extreme energy poverty. With the 12th edition of its “Energy for Life” project, the organisation has electrified its 100th household in Romania, bringing light, safety and new opportunities to families living in some of the country’s most isolated areas.
For thousands of people across Romania, access to electricity remains far from a given. In remote communities, where geographical isolation and a lack of infrastructure make connection to the national power grid difficult or impossible, everyday activities that most people take for granted can become a challenge.
Against this backdrop, the Intelligent Energy Association continues to expand its “Energy for Life” project, providing off-grid households with access to electricity through photovoltaic systems. The initiative focuses on homes that are not connected to the national distribution network and for which conventional grid connection is not a viable option in the foreseeable future.
The project’s 12th edition marks a particularly significant achievement: the electrification of its 100th household in Romania. Beyond the symbolic importance of this milestone, it represents 100 families whose daily lives have been changed through access to a necessity of modern life.
For the beneficiaries, a photovoltaic installation means far more than having electric light. It brings safer living conditions, greater comfort and better opportunities for children to study and learn. It also offers families living in isolated areas a chance to overcome some of the limitations imposed by their geographical circumstances.
Bringing modern energy to one of Romania’s most remarkable landscapes
The latest stage of the project took place in Fundătura Ponorului, one of Romania’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Often referred to as “God’s Palm”, this secluded area in the Șureanu Mountains is a place where traditional rural life and unspoilt nature have remained closely connected.
Surrounded by forested hills and mountain slopes, the valley unfolds across a broad landscape shaped by the winding waters of the Ponor stream. Traditional houses, shepherds’ shelters, hayfields, green pastures and grazing livestock create a picture of rural life that seems largely untouched by the pace of the modern world.
Here, nature has shaped the landscape over centuries, while local communities have learned to adapt their lives to the rhythms of the mountains and the changing seasons. Yet, behind the extraordinary scenery lies a less visible reality: geographical isolation continues to create significant challenges for those who live here, particularly when it comes to accessing essential services and infrastructure.
The “Energy for Life” project seeks to bridge this gap. By installing photovoltaic systems, the initiative brings the benefits of modern technology to households that remain beyond the reach of the conventional electricity grid. Rather than changing the character of this unique landscape, the project uses the energy of the sun to improve living conditions while preserving the traditional way of life.
At Fundătura Ponorului, the beauty of nature has been complemented by an act of human solidarity – bringing electricity to those who need it most.
100 households electrified, thousands still waiting
Launched in the summer of 2021, “Energy for Life” was created to draw attention to a largely overlooked issue in Romania: extreme energy poverty. While electricity is an essential part of everyday life for most households, thousands of people across the country continue to live without access to this basic resource.
Over successive editions, the project has demonstrated that renewable energy can provide practical and sustainable solutions for communities that conventional infrastructure has failed to reach. For households in remote locations, photovoltaic systems can offer a viable alternative, bringing electricity where extending the national grid is not currently feasible.
The scale of the challenge is reflected in the National Electronic Register of Households Without Electricity in Romania (RENGEER), developed in 2024 by the Intelligent Energy Association with the support of the Ministry of Energy.
According to the register, Romania has 5,494 households without access to electricity, home to 11,611 people. Among them are 4,777 children and young people under the age of 18.
These figures reveal the extent of a problem that often remains invisible in public debate. Many of the affected households are located in hard-to-reach areas, where limited infrastructure, low incomes and the absence of cadastral documentation make conventional electrification particularly difficult.
Reaching the 100-household milestone is therefore both a significant achievement and a reminder of how much work remains to be done.
For the families already reached by the initiative, however, the impact is tangible. One hundred households now have access to electricity, and one hundred families have taken an important step towards safer and better living conditions.
The challenge ahead remains considerable, but every household brought into the light is proof that practical solutions, sustained commitment and cooperation can make a real difference.
Since 2004, ‘The Diplomat – Bucharest’ aims to bring a fair and balanced analysis and comprehensive coverage of the political and business scene in Romania.
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Solar Microcells Wirelessly Align Cells for Bioprinting
Researchers at Penn State have demonstrated that miniature solar cells can wirelessly control the alignment of biological cells, offering a potential method to shape 3D-printed tissues without the need for invasive wiring. The team, led by engineering professor Ibrahim T. Ozbolat, published their findings in Advanced Functional Materials, describing how they used light-activated photovoltaic microcells to influence the orientation of fibroblasts grown on computer chips. This approach eliminates the bulky electronic interfaces and tethered electrodes traditionally required to apply electrical currents to cells, marking a significant step toward more flexible bioprinting techniques.
Bioprinting involves using living cells and molecular signals to construct biological tissues and organs layer by layer in a laboratory setting. A critical challenge in this process is maintaining the correct alignment of the bioink, a blend of cells and materials, to ensure the resulting tissue grows in the desired structure. Historically, researchers have used electricity to guide this alignment, but the method typically relies on wired connections that can be cumbersome and invasive. The new study introduces a wireless alternative that uses light energy to generate the necessary electrical influence directly at the cell interface.
The study was an experimental investigation focused on the interaction between photovoltaic cells and biological samples. The researchers utilized commercially sourced lung and dermal fibroblasts, which are common cell types found in connective tissue throughout the body. These cells were placed on silicon wafers, the fundamental base used to build computer chips, that had been patterned with arrays of tiny solar cells. By varying the configuration of these solar cells, the team aimed to observe how different electrical fields affected cell behavior over time.
The experimental design involved two primary strategies for adjusting the layout of the photovoltaic cells on the chips. In the first strategy, the researchers varied the diameters of the individual solar cells, ranging from just smaller than a millimeter to a mere 80 micrometers, which is less than the width of a human hair. In the second strategy, the diameters remained constant, but the overall shape of the patterned array was altered. These variations allowed the team to test how changes in size, shape, and spacing between the individual solar cells influenced the electric field generated by the array.
During the experiment, the chips were exposed to various intensities of light for seven days, allowing the fibroblasts to grow. The light was captured by the photovoltaic cells and converted into an electrical current, which in turn influenced the cells. At the conclusion of the seven-day period, the researchers compared the alignment of the cells on the illuminated chips to those grown on chips that did not receive light exposure. This comparison served as a control to isolate the effect of the photovoltaic-generated electrical fields on cell orientation.
The results indicated a strong correlation between the patterning of the solar cells and the alignment of the fibroblasts. In the control chips that were not exposed to light, the cell alignment was largely random, with no specific directional preference. However, in the illuminated chips, the cells aligned in a manner that clearly mirrored the underlying pattern of the photovoltaic cells. This finding suggests that the electrical fields generated by the solar cells are sufficient to guide cell orientation without the need for direct physical wiring or external electrodes.
Yifan Tao, the first author of the paper and a doctoral candidate in engineering science and mechanics, noted that the intensity of the illumination also played a role in the process. The testing showed that the activity of the photovoltaic cells was influenced by the brightness of the light source. This means that researchers can adjust cell alignment not only by changing the physical pattern of the solar cells but also by modifying the light intensity or the distance of the light source from the sample.
Ozbolat explained that while scientists have known for years that weak electrical currents can influence cell alignment, the traditional methods have been limited by the need for bulky systems and invasive wiring. Photovoltaic cells, the same materials used in solar panels, have previously been shown to offer a wireless approach to electrically influencing biological cells. However, it was previously unclear whether manipulating the layout of a photovoltaic cell array could effectively align larger clusters of cells into specific shapes. This study provides evidence that such manipulation is possible and effective for the cell types tested.
The researchers acknowledged that the method does not offer complete control over cell alignment, as cell-to-cell interactions can still play a role in the final structure. Nevertheless, the findings light the path toward wirelessly influencing tissue growth, which could have significant implications for the field of regenerative medicine.
Future work will focus on testing more sensitive cell types, such as cardiac or muscle cells, to understand how the electrical influence may impact cell function alongside alignment. The current study was conducted on a flat, planar surface, but the researchers hope to extend the method to three-dimensional spaces in the future.
The study was supported by chair funds from the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State, as well as grants from the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The research team included several doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers from engineering science and mechanics.
Subject of Research: Wireless cell alignment control using photovoltaic microcells for bioprinting
Article Title: Microscopic solar panels could help shape 3D-printed biological tissue
Article References: Microscopic solar panels could help shape 3D-printed biological tissue. Original publication (Bibliographic details unavailable.)
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: Not provided
Keywords: bioprinting, photovoltaic cells, cell alignment, fibroblasts, tissue engineering, wireless control, light-activated, silicon wafers, electrical fields, regenerative medicine, microcell arrays, bioink, cell migration, 3D printing, connective tissue, optical stimulation, material science, biomedical engineering, light intensity, cell orientation
News Source: Gregory Coleman. (November 13, 2026). Solar Microcells Wirelessly Align Cells for Bioprinting. Scienmag.
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New Jersey homebuyer get conflicting information from seller on solar panel warranty  Yahoo
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Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC), the Kingdom’s Principal Buyer, has released the request for qualification (RFQ) for Round 8 of the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP). The round covers three independent power projects (IPPs) with a combined capacity of 3,200 MW: two solar PV plants and one wind farm.
The RFQ is the first stage of the tender. Developers apply to be qualified, and SPPC then invites the qualified bidders to submit proposals.
The winning developers have built, owned and operated (BOO) their plants. Each project company signs a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with SPPC, which buys all the electricity the plant produces. SPPC carries out the pre-development studies, runs the tender and signs the PPAs. It also signs storage services agreements for battery projects.
Saudi Energy has already started tendering the grid connections for these sites. In March 2026 it invited bids for 380kV bulk supply point (BSP) substations for upcoming renewable projects. A BSP is the high-voltage substation where a power plant connects to the national grid. The packages included:
Outside the competitive rounds, the ACWA Power, Badeel and Aramco Power consortium signed PPAs for 15,000 MW of solar and wind in July 2025.
SPPC is also running other power tenders:
The NREP aims to raise the share of renewables and energy storage in Saudi Arabia’s installed capacity to about 50% by 2030, depending on how fast electricity demand grows. Saudi Energy reported about 19.3 GW of renewables connected to the grid by the end of September 2026.
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THE refusal of planning permission for a largescale solar farm in the Ballyglunin, Abbeyknockmoy and Monivea areas has been appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála.
Heron Solar Ltd’s application for the extensive Belville Solar Farm development was turned down by Galway County Council last month. However, the applicant has now appealed this and is seeking for the decision to be overturned.
County Council planners refused permission citing 11 grounds. These included a lack of legal consent from local landowners, an inadequate environmental impact assessment and the absence of detailed designs for the PV panels.
The decision also referenced an incomplete archaeology and cultural heritage assessment and the inclusion of land zoned ‘less likely viable’ in the Local Authority Renewable Energy Strategy (LARES).
Submissions
The proposed solar farm spanning almost 600 acres in Ballyglunin, Abbeyknockmoy, Monivea and surrounding townlands was first proposed by Power Capitals Renewable Energy (PCRE) (Heron Solar Ltd) in June last year.
It sparked considerable opposition from residents in the area and more than 300 submissions were lodged by residents, community groups and public representatives.
One of those groups, the Oakwood Residents Group, believes further submissions are needed to voice their concerns to An Coimisiún Pleanála. The group is holding a public meeting this evening (Wednesday) at 8pm in the Abbeyknockmoy Community Centre.
The appeal is currently being considered by An Coimisiún Pleanála and a decision is not expected until early next year.
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Dear EarthTalk: “What’s up with “solar windows” that generate solar electricity and remain transparent? Can this tech put a dent in our carbon emissions?” — Mark Jackson, Cary, N.C.
Modern urban skylines are dominated by towering skyscrapers with expansive glass facades that absorb large amounts of solar heat while leaving vast surface areas unused for renewable energy generation. Traditional architectural designs treat windows as passive barriers, but this paradigm is shifting as cities search for new ways to combat climate change. By transforming transparent building skins into active power generators, urban centers can harness millions of square feet of previously wasted vertical space.
Transparent luminescent solar concentrators and transparent photovoltaic glass operate by harvesting invisible wavelengths of light, like ultraviolet and infrared, while letting visible light pass through cleanly. These advanced materials use specialized organic salts or nanoparticles embedded within glass panes to absorb non-visible solar radiation and direct it toward thin photovoltaic strips lining the frame edges.
A major advantage of solar windows over traditional rooftop panels is their ability to scale clean energy generation in densely built environments without requiring additional land. Retrofitting existing commercial towers with power-generating glass multiplies potential exponentially. As Ana Almerini, marketing and communications manager at SolarReviews, argues: “Unlike traditional solar panels, solar windows can filter UV and infrared sunlight and use it to generate electricity.” This allows entire building skins to function simultaneously as architectural viewing panes and distributed power plants.
Integrating transparent solar technology into building envelopes also holds tremendous potential to cut carbon emissions, reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-powered HVAC systems, and shrink urban footprints. Buildings consume a massive share of global electricity, much of it driven by cooling loads on sunny days. As Martin Deil, global CEO of ClearVue Technologies, notes regarding market validation: “This is a pivotal moment… This sale of our solar envelope solution confirms our commercial strategy and shows the value the market is starting to place on energy-efficient smart building solutions.”
Achieving widespread viability requires careful balancing of costs, efficiency and total optical clarity. Integrating these systems demands advanced coatings and specialized interlayer films within double- or triple-pane glass units to maintain structural thermal insulation. When modern building-integrated photovoltaics connect directly to a property’s local microgrid, they provide localized backup generation that stabilizes energy loads during peak demand hours. While efficiency metrics and production economics are still being optimized, transparent solar windows are a vital frontier for zero-net-energy cities. Harnessing the invisible spectrum of sunlight turns ordinary glass into a global warming weapon.
CONTACTS: Let the sunshine in: Exploring the benefits of solar glass, renewableenergymagazine.com.
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https//earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.
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Supported by Innovate UK, Power Roll is developing, testing, and implementing lightweight, low-cost, flexible solar mini grid systems in India and Africa.
This content has been archived, as Innovate UK are now part of UKRI. For the latest information from Innovate UK, please visit the Innovate UK council page on the UKRI website.
Power Roll has installed two mini solar grid systems in rural locations in Africa and India. These grids demonstrate the use of their innovative solar film and energy storage technologies that have the potential to disrupt the global solar power market.
Paul Laidler, project lead at Power Roll, explained:
The mini solar grid systems use flexible solar PV that is thin, light, easy to install and can be used off-grid. This makes it very attractive to communities who might struggle to get access to technology, particularly if their location is remote.
Power Roll’s solar film will be produced as a roll and can be used on a variety of surfaces in off-grid settings; for example, curved around a technology pole or attached to a fragile roof. Its lightness and versatility give it numerous advantages over silicon solar panels not only where it can be deployed, but also in ease of transport.
The technology can be applied in a number of ways in off-grid settings, including lighting, charging laptops and mobile phones and pumping water for irrigation purposes.
Laidler said:
We want to make solar energy affordable and available to everyone – and that means having a low-cost solution that works in off-grid locations where people have previously found it difficult to access power.
At scale, Power Roll’s solar technology will generate electricity at a cost which is at least 40% cheaper than silicon PV, and it weighs as little as 2% of current silicon PV products, which is a distinct advantage.
The technology will also help the UK achieve its target of becoming net zero by 2050.
Power Roll participated in two Energy Catalyst brokerage events and achieved funding as a result. It received £492,000 in grant funding from the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) to develop, test and demonstrate its technology at an Energy Catalyst round 5 event.
It recently attracted a further £515,000 in grant funding from the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) in Energy Catalyst round 7. This second round requires the Sunderland-based company to include improvements to social inclusion and gender equality in its project scope.
Laidler explained:
Until now it’s been about proving the technology, but now we are measuring what difference it can make to people’s lives; for example, allowing women entrepreneurs to expand their business and making it easier for kids to learn because they can study at night.
Although the programme is concentrating on rural, off-grid locations in developing countries, Laidler says the mini grids could be installed anywhere in the world, including in developing countries, where they could open up the underdeveloped commercial rooftop market and enable solar power to be generated where it is not possible today.
As well as participating in the Energy Catalyst events, Power Roll was able to benefit from the government’s Future Fund, which was launched in May 2020 in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. The Future Fund was designed to support firms across the UK to get through the pandemic by stimulating investment, so that they can continue to break new ground in technology and innovation.
Power Roll secured an initial £250,000 convertible loan from the Future Fund, which formed part of a £2.8 million funding round closed in August 2020.
Neil Spann, managing director at Power Roll, commented:
We were able to leverage the value of the Future Fund loan as part of our highly successful investment round in the summer of 2020. As of early 2021 we are close to completing a follow-up round that will raise a similar amount.
Spann continued:
The success of our funding round and the quality of our investors reflects the global commercial potential for our technology. Our investors are excited about the new markets we can exploit and disrupt. There’s huge potential for solar and energy storage in a vast range of new applications including non-loadbearing rooftops, building integration, transport, off-grid and even powering Internet of Things sensors.
Through investment from Finance Durham and other investors, Power Roll is currently constructing a pilot plant in County Durham to further scale-up and commercialise its solar film technology.
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The Mukwonago Town Board is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Deputy Clerk/Treasurer Kelly Mueller, Town Chairman Peter Topczewski, Town Attorney John Macy, Town Planner Ben Greenberg, and Supervisor Lyle Boucher.
The Mukwonago Town Board is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Supervisor Gilbert Yerke, Supervisor Richard Wrasman and Supervisor Kay Clabault.
The Town of Mukwonago Plan Commission is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Rob Schuett, Kathryn Bell, Bill Moulas, Bob Usarek, and Peter Bratz.
Peter Murphy of OneEnergy Development LLC is seen at a Town of Mukwonago Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. Murphy represents OneEnergy, which seeks to install a solar project near the intersection of Highway I and Section Road in the Town of Mukwonago.

The Mukwonago Town Board is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Deputy Clerk/Treasurer Kelly Mueller, Town Chairman Peter Topczewski, Town Attorney John Macy, Town Planner Ben Greenberg, and Supervisor Lyle Boucher.
The Mukwonago Town Board is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Supervisor Gilbert Yerke, Supervisor Richard Wrasman and Supervisor Kay Clabault.
The Town of Mukwonago Plan Commission is seen at a Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. From left: Rob Schuett, Kathryn Bell, Bill Moulas, Bob Usarek, and Peter Bratz.
Peter Murphy of OneEnergy Development LLC is seen at a Town of Mukwonago Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting on Wednesday night. Murphy represents OneEnergy, which seeks to install a solar project near the intersection of Highway I and Section Road in the Town of Mukwonago.
MUKWONAGO — A public hearing for a proposed 6-megawatt solar energy project in the Town of Mukwonago on Wednesday night wound up being mostly discussion between members of the Town Board and Plan Commission, with residents only getting about 15 minutes to ask questions at the very end of the night.
The Joint Plan Commission and Town Board meeting held at Brooklife Church, 857 S. Rochester St., on Wednesday included a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for the proposed Spring Lake Solar project on its agenda. The public hearing was a continuation of a previous public hearing at St. James Catholic Church on Oct. 26, which was adjourned after several hours of public comment.
On Wednesday, the Town Board and Plan Commission reopened the public hearing and gave the floor to the applicant, Peter Murphy of Seattle-based OneEnergy Development LLC, the company wanting to install 13,000 solar panels across approximately 28 acres on property northwest of Highway I and Section Road in the Town of Mukwonago.
Murphy spent about 45 minutes providing answers to questions posed by residents at the previous public hearing. He addressed concerns, including how many projects were included within OneEnergy’s proposal, with Murphy confirming that only the 6-megawatt project is part of the proposal, and that the project would coordinate smoothly with the Mukwonago Fire Department.
The Town Board and Plan Commission then decided to hold off on further public comment, instead spending the next hour allowing Town Board and Plan Commission members to question the applicant. The most frequently discussed topic among board and commission members was that OneEnergy plans to sell the solar project to We Energies once construction is complete.
Town Board Supervisor Kay Clabault questioned who would be responsible for decommissioning the project at the end of its 30to-50-year useful life; Murphy confirmed that the project owner, We Energies, would be the decommissioner.
Several members of the Town Board and Plan Commission, including Clabault, Supervisor Gilbert Yerke, and Town Chairman Peter Topczewski, expressed concern about whether We Energies would honor the decommissioning of the project at the end of its useful life. Murphy said a condition of the CUP is that the project must be decommissioned at the end of its useful life, meaning the project owner, regardless of who that may be in 30-50 years, would be legally required to decommission the project.
“The conditional use permit has the decommissioning plan that requires that to happen,” Murphy said. “So, your permit is legally enforceable. That’s the local enforcement pursuant to the permit, and then (there is an) additional level of regulation from the state Public Service Commission.”
Topczewski said his concern stems from the town not being a signatory to the lease agreement for the project. He said he wants to see a copy of the lease agreement before moving forward.
“I’m going to be dead probably in 30 years,” Topczewski said. “My obligation here is to protect the interests of the town.”
Among other comments about the project, Supervisor Lyle Boucher said he believes there isn’t enough local benefit to Town of Mukwonago residents.
“The benefit I get as an electrical customer (in the Town of Mukwonago) is not greater or no less than a We Energies customer in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan,” Boucher said.
Residents did not get to take the microphone until about 9 p.m. Residents were limited to only questions, not comments, about the project that had not already been discussed earlier in the evening. Answers to those questions will be provided at another continuation of the public hearing on Dec. 2 at Mukwonago Town Hall, W320-S8315 Beulah Road, according to Town Attorney John Macy.
Residents who spoke included Tarri Stanzer, who asked how much power would be generated by the solar panels on cloudy days as opposed to days with more sunlight. Tony Kuczynski, who said he lives a few doors west of the development, asked why the power provided by the solar project is needed at all. Meanwhile, multiple residents, including Brent Radobicky, disputed an earlier claim by Murphy that OneEnergy attempted to reach out to all nearby residents who might be affected by the development; Radobicky said he did not receive any correspondence.
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The wars disrupting global energy markets have exposed the strategic weakness of an economy built on fossil fuels. Countries dependent on imported oil and gas can find their growth, public finances and energy supplies hostage to conflicts thousands of kilometres away. A threatened shipping route or an interruption in supplies can quickly raise the cost of transport, electricity and food. For India and much of the developing world, this is not an occasional inconvenience. It is a structural vulnerability.
The case for domestic clean energy has never been stronger. Solar and wind power do not have to pass through contested shipping routes, and once installed, they provide electricity without the recurring cost of importing fuel. Electrifying transport and industry can reduce dependence on oil and gas. The transition is no longer simply an obligation born out of the climate crisis. It is now an economic and a strategic necessity.
But there is a distinction that governments cannot afford to overlook. Energy security is not the same as a just transition. A country can reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels while creating new dependencies on critical minerals, intensifying competition for farmland and water, or leaving consumers with unreliable and unaffordable power. Developing countries face the harder task of building clean energy systems while coping with high borrowing costs, limited access to technology and far fewer financial resources than wealthy economies.
That is the choice confronting delegates at the United Nations climate summit COP31 in Türkiye. The energy crisis has made the case for moving away from fossil fuels harder to dismiss. The challenge is to turn that urgency into a transition that is cleaner, more secure and fairer.
The latest Global Carbon Budget, released on November 10, captures the contradiction. Fossil fuel CO2 emissions are projected to fall by 0.4% in 2026 to 38.2 billion tonnes. Oil emissions are expected to decline by 1.9%, partly because the war in Iran has disrupted supplies and pushed up prices. Yet coal emissions are projected to rise by 0.6%, while total CO2 emissions, including those from land use change, are expected to increase to 43.3 billion tonnes, up from 42.8 billion tonnes last year.
“A decline in fossil CO2 emissions is encouraging, but a reduction driven partly by geopolitical shocks is not a sustainable climate solution,” said Pierre Friedlingstein, the director of the Global Carbon Budget Office at the University of Exeter and the lead author of the report. The warning is fundamental. Higher prices and disrupted supplies can temporarily suppress fuel consumption. When markets stabilise, demand can return. A lasting decline in emissions requires countries to replace fossil fuels, not simply use less of them because they have become expensive or difficult to obtain.
Clean technologies are already changing the equation. A companion study in the Nature Climate Change journal estimates that solar, wind and electric vehicles could offset 64% to 79% of the additional emissions associated with rising energy demand through 2028. But the deployment must accelerate. The geopolitical crisis has strengthened the economic case for clean energy. It has not made the transition inevitable.
For India, the strategic case is particularly strong. The country imports about 88% of its crude oil, exposing its economy to price shocks, supply disruptions and vulnerable shipping routes. More than 93% of its primary energy supply still comes from fossil fuels, according to the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), a think-tank. Reducing that dependence would strengthen the economy and advance its climate goals.
India has made substantial progress. Renewable electricity generation exceeded 500 terawatt-hours in 2025, supplying about a quarter of the country’s electricity, according to the International Energy Agency’s assessment of India’s renewable energy market. It estimates that without the solar, wind and bioenergy capacity added since 2010, coal imports in 2025 would have been about 110 million tonnes higher. It also estimates that these sources reduced cumulative spending on coal and natural gas imports by more than $100 billion between 2011 and 2025. These are significant gains in energy security.
But India has reached a more difficult stage. The task is no longer to add renewable capacity. It is to make renewable energy displace fossil fuels. Solar power is abundant during the day, while cooling demand can remain high after sunset. Wind generation varies by season. Without storage, stronger transmission and a more flexible electricity system, coal will continue to fill the gaps.
The problem is already visible. Around 2.1 terawatt-hours of renewable electricity was curtailed in 2025-26 because coal plants could not reduce generation below their minimum operating levels, according to an analysis of India’s power system by Ember, an energy consultancy, published in June. Clean electricity was being wasted to keep coal plants running. “Coal’s remaining hold is after dark,” said Neshwin Rodrigues, a senior energy analyst at Ember and the author of the analysis. India needs storage and a more flexible grid to use renewable power when demand is highest. The operating requirements of its coal fleet cannot be allowed to dictate the pace of the transition.
The challenge extends well beyond electricity. Transport remains heavily dependent on petroleum, while steel and cement production rely on coal and gas. A renewable power boom cannot transform an economy that continues to consume fossil fuels across these sectors. India must electrify road transport and industrial processes, improve energy efficiency and develop cleaner alternatives where direct electrification is difficult. Progress must be measured by how much fossil fuel the economy stops using.
The latest emissions projections underline the gap. India’s fossil fuel CO2 emissions are expected to rise 4.4% in 2026, with coal emissions up 5.9%, according to the Global Carbon Budget. Renewable generation is growing, but demand and industrial activity are also expanding. India will not secure its energy future by adding clean power alone. It must change the way its economy consumes energy.
India’s ethanol blending programme illustrates how the pursuit of energy security can create new vulnerabilities. By August 2025, blending ethanol with petrol had saved more than ₹1.44 trillion in foreign exchange and substituted about 24.5 million metric tonnes of crude oil, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26. These savings matter for a country heavily dependent on imported oil. But the programme has also increased demand for agricultural feedstocks, bringing energy policy into competition with other uses of land, water and crops.
Between 2021-22 and 2023-24, maize accounted for 20% of ethanol feedstock supplied. Damaged food grains and rice from the Food Corporation of India accounted for 11% and 8%, respectively. In comparison, sugarcane-related feedstocks made up the remaining 62%, according to PRS Legislative Research, a think-tank.
The Economic Survey notes that administered ethanol prices, alongside improvements in maize cultivation, are reshaping farm incentives and could affect crop diversity and food security. A maize dashboard on Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) prepared by Crisil, a research and analytics firm, also points to rising diversion of maize towards ethanol production.
The implications go beyond the farm price of maize. The crop is used for animal feed and other agricultural purposes. Sugarcane, rice and maize require substantial water, often in regions where supplies are already under pressure. Directing more land and water towards fuel production can narrow farmers’ choices and intensify competition for scarce resources.
“The costs of blending go beyond just the procurement of inputs from farmers and their processing,” said Karthik Ganesan, a fellow at CEEW. The full cost includes public support for agriculture and distilleries, water use and the opportunity cost of land that could grow other crops. Anasuya Gangopadhyay, a research scientist at the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy, a think-tank, said, “food insecurity is not an immediate threat.” But she warned that continuing current cultivation patterns could increase risks over time.
The climate benefit of ethanol also depends on how it is produced. Fertiliser, irrigation, processing and land-use changes affect the emissions saved by replacing petrol. A 2026 study in PLOS One, which uses land use modelling, identifies trade-offs between biofuel production, land, nitrogen emissions and food security under different feedstock scenarios. Domestic production alone does not make a fuel sustainable.
For developing countries, the greater obstacle is often the cost of building the infrastructure needed to make clean energy reliable. Solar and wind projects require transmission networks, storage and stronger distribution systems. Industry and transport need investment to move away from fossil fuels. India has access to domestic capital, but high borrowing costs and financially stressed electricity distribution companies raise project risk and expense. Poorer economies face even steeper barriers.
This is where the international response has fallen short. Developing countries are being asked to reduce emissions and strengthen energy security while paying more for capital and often relying on imported technology.
At the UN summits, India has emphasised predictable climate finance and countries’ right to determine their own transition pathways. The negotiations in Türkiye must turn these demands into practical support.
The geopolitical crisis has given governments a powerful reason to move away from fossil fuels. Countries that build domestic clean energy systems will be better placed to withstand supply disruptions, reduce exposure to volatile prices and tackle climate change.
The Türkiye climate summit, which is set to conclude on November 20, is expected to make the path to a just energy transition easier. World leaders at Summit have urged governments to keep climate action a priority, amid the ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
 
Banner image: Workers at a solar panel manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Jaipur, Rajasthan. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)
India is promoting deep-sea fishing with the promise of better incomes for the country’s traditional fishers. Government schemes have sought to accelerate this transition by providing financial support for deep-sea fishing vessels. Yet the move into deeper waters has proved far more complicated than policy documents suggest. Across the coastal states of India, fishing communities […]
© 2026 Copyright Conservation news. Mongabay is a U.S.-based non-profit conservation and environmental science news platform. Our EIN or tax ID is 45-3714703.

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Saudi Arabia issues RFQ for three solar and wind projects with a combined capacity of 3,200 MW under NREP Round 8.
November 12, 2026. By EI News Network
Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC), the kingdom’s principal buyer of electricity, has issued a request for qualification (RFQ) for the eighth round of solar and wind power projects under the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP), covering a combined capacity of 3,200 MW.
The eighth round comprises three projects, including two solar photovoltaic (PV) independent power producer (IPP) projects with a combined capacity of 1,900 MW and a 1,300 MW wind power project.
The solar projects include the 900 MW Tumair Solar PV IPP in the Riyadh Region and the 1,000 MW East Al Amoah Solar PV IPP in the Aseer Region. The wind project, Al Mozeraah Wind IPP, has a planned capacity of 1,300 MW and will be located in the Makkah Region.
SPPC, as the principal buyer, is responsible for conducting pre-development studies, managing the tendering of power generation projects and signing power purchase agreements (PPAs) and energy storage services agreements with project developers.
The NREP is led and supervised by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Energy. The programme aims to increase the share of installed capacity from renewable energy sources and energy storage systems to around 50 percent of the kingdom’s energy mix by 2030, subject to electricity demand growth.

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Solar Power Most Cost-Effective for Water Pumping in Nigeria  Mirage News
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DS1 takes on construction of Lithuania’s ‘largest’ PV project  PV Tech
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For the past five years, Brighter Kerry has been laying the groundwork for Ireland’s first 100 per cent community-owned solar farm.
The Goodbody EIIS fund managed by Azets has recently committed to investing up to €9m in the initiative and with this, the company see any funding risk significantly reduced in the project. With this in mind, Brighter Kerry is now launching a Private Placement EIIS round.
The volunteer-led organisation, has ‘operated on a shoestring for years by getting help, often pro-bono, from the right specialists for each particular task’.
And its co-founder, Hugh Reynolds says it has ‘drawn heavily on the talents’ of its ‘incredible volunteer team, many of whom work in the energy space in their day jobs’.
“We’ve come a long way,” he said. “And we are now on track to be supplying energy to the grid by Spring 2028.”
“Technically we are a Renewable Energy Community (REC), which is essentially a group of citizens who come together to fund a renewable power generation project,” said co-founder Stephen O’Sullivan. “We aim to be open to everyone, benefit the community and operate on democratic principles. The idea is rather than have a wind or solar farm imposed on you, a community or locality takes ownership of what is built and where the benefits flow. While this is a first for Ireland, this particular model of community owned energy has actually been around in Europe since the early 2000s.”
Reynolds says that the project ‘benefits from an ideal location, technical and financial setup’.
“With regard to location, full planning permission has been secured from Kerry County Council, alongside a secure connection offer to the local ESB substation just 1.7 kilometres away,” he said. “ The project has also secured support under the State backed Small Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS), providing a 15-year supported tariff for qualifying electricity exported to the grid. This gives us predictable, long-term cash flows insulated from volatile wholesale market swings. In fact, because we are a REC, we get a premium on the price we get for our electricity.”
O’Sullivan said that ‘once lenders and shareholders get a fair return from their investment, 100% of the excess profits will be donated to charity’.
“How the profits are distributed will be decided democratically each year by the local owner investors,” he said. “ We believe the project brings together a number of characteristics which investors increasingly look for: long-term infrastructure, renewable-energy generation, community ownership and potential EII tax relief. Brighter Kerry delivers the so-called triple bottom line – a positive result for profit, people and planet. The investment is ultimately supporting tangible energy infrastructure, with long-term government-backed contracted revenues.”
Beyond its powerful social dividend, Brighter’s 2026 private placement EIIS round also offers a highly attractive financial structure for Irish taxpayers.
“ Because the company will only commence trading upon energisation in 2028, qualifying investors can avail of up to 50 per cent income tax relief on their investment against their taxable income,” said Reynolds. “Furthermore, private placement investors rank pari-passu alongside institutional co-investment partners, ensuring a transparent and equitable capital structure.
“So, as Ireland battles to meet its binding 2030 climate targets, the State is actively looking for models that can accelerate renewable deployment while maintaining public buy-in. And, Brighter Kerry proves that you don’t have to choose between commercial viability and social purpose. By harnessing our rich tradition of cooperatives and community action, the project is laying down a template which other communities and counties can and should replicate.
“As our Private Placement Round officially opens, we are inviting investors to back a vision that is already built on solid ground. You aren’t just funding a solar farm – you are investing in a permanent economic legacy for community-owned energy.”
Visit brighter.ie for additional information.
You can contact the company directly by email [email protected] or alternatively to learn more contact Robert Leen of O’Connor Pyne & Co by email [email protected] or phone (021) 481 0080. Closing date for Private Placement is Dec 15, 2026.

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Octopus Energy has launched plug-in solar panels for small businesses after selling out of its household kits within two weeks.
The energy supplier said cafés, shops, hairdressers and offices can now buy the panels, which are designed to plug directly into a weatherproof outdoor socket and don't require rooftop installation or an electrician.
The move follows the legalisation of plug-in solar for UK households in August. Octopus was among the first major suppliers to offer the technology and said it has since restocked its household kits twice in less than a month because of high demand.
Its new business kits use 460W bifacial panels, which can generate electricity from sunlight hitting both sides. They can be mounted on a wall or placed on the ground, making them potentially suitable for businesses that rent their premises or do not have access to a suitable roof.
Prices start at £450, with businesses able to choose between one- and two-panel systems.
Octopus estimates that a small business could cut its annual electricity bill by up to 23 per cent using a two-panel system, although the actual saving will depend on factors such as their electricity consumption, sunlight levels and how much of the power generated by the panels the business is able to use on site.
The energy company's estimate is based on a business using around 2,500kWh of electricity a year and a two-panel system generating 828kWh annually. Octopus said businesses could also earn money by exporting surplus electricity to the grid.
The company claims a two-panel setup costing £650 could pay for itself in around three years if the business uses the electricity generated and exports excess power through a smart export tariff such as Octopus's Panel Power.
Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy for Business, said: "Energy bills are having a big impact on a small business' bottom line. Plug-in solar gives SMEs a simple way to generate their own cheap, green power – and because so many rent their premises, they don't need to own a building or have a suitable roof to benefit.
"We've been blown away by the demand from households, so bringing it to small businesses was a no-brainer."
A YouGov survey commissioned by Octopus Energy for Business found that 62 per cent of small businesses were aware that solar could reduce energy costs, but only 18 per cent had installed it. The survey questioned 1,034 SME decision-makers across the UK, excluding Northern Ireland, between 17 and 27 April 2026.
Minister for local energy and jobs, Martin McCluskey, added: "We have seen thousands of plug-in panels registered since we made them legal this summer as a simple, affordable way for people to benefit from clean, homegrown power.
"I fully support extending the bill-saving benefits to businesses and would encourage as many cafés, corner shops and pubs as possible to plug in and save money straightaway."
The newborn required intubation and later tested positive for both cocaine and cannabinoids, according to a criminal complaint
The Federal Aviation Administration's decision to ground all flights nationwide Friday threw the sports world into chaos, leaving NBA, NHL and college teams stranded as they tried to reach their destinations, and NFL teams were left to wonder whether the issue would be resolved in time for them to travel to their games this weekend.The FAA issued a notice that said the ground stop was “due to extraordinary circumstances and for reasons of safety.
The pulses are coming from a star over 5,000 light-years away from Earth
Strictly Come Dancing and Dune stars featured in Friday’s action-packed show
(AP) — Hye-Jin Choi opened with two bogeys, made up ground with a 15-foot eagle putt late and finished with a 3-under 67 Friday that gave her a three-way share of the lead at The Annika and another chance to win for the first time in 127 tries on the LPGA Tour.It was far more effective than the bogey-free round of Nelly Korda, the No.
Some 300 stores will close in 2026 and 2027, the company said earlier this year
Google unveiled plans earlier this month to block access to its search engine for schools that opt out of its AI tools
Leading by four points with just over two minutes left after intercepting Jayden Daniels twice in the span of five plays, the New York Giants somehow did not hold on and were dealt a stinging defeat in primetime by rival Washington."Every loss stings," top receiver Malik Nabers said Friday.
The American Heritage was docked near the Port of New Orleans Administration Building when it was struck by a tanker around 12:30 p.m. Friday, port officials said
(AP) — Coco Gauff came agonizingly close to extending her stellar season at the WTA Finals. If not for the vagaries of the event's convoluted round-robin play, one of the game's brightest stars would be still be around for the final weekend of the $10 million event.
The FAA said there was a “temporary telecommunications outage” and that “out of an abundance of caution all flights have been halted.”
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Anthony Santander apologized Friday for sharing anti-Muslim social media posts, saying the content caused hurt and fell short of his own convictions.In a statement on Instagram, Santander said reflection and conversations with people he trusts made him recognize he should have been more thoughtful about what he shared and the responsibility that comes with having a public voice.
The new recruitment video uses midcentury footage featuring zero people of color and states, “The way it was. They way it can be.”
“Seeing a black cat is actually good luck because you get to see a cat”
The 41-year-old was arrested earlier this week near Gloucester
MADRID (AP) — Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono has been suspended for 12 games after he received a red card for a reckless on-field collision with Jesús de Miguel that resulted in the death of the Tenerife striker.The Spanish soccer federation’s disciplinary committee issued the suspension for Owono on Friday, 10 days after De Miguel died a day after his clash with Owono.
Lt Col Michael Morris was flown back to the US in August before he could be questioned by UK police
Family Dollar will pay $63 million to settle state and federal allegations that it routinely charged customers more at the register than the prices displayed on its shelves, website and mobile app.The Federal Trade Commission and 17 states filed federal charges against the company Thursday and announced the proposed settlement the same day.
FRISCO, Texas (AP) — DeMarvion Overshown said he didn't know inactive players in street clothes couldn't run on the field to celebrate before committing the 14th and final penalty by the Dallas Cowboys last weekend.Whether the linebacker nursing hamstring and back injuries should have known — and whether it's emblematic of a discipline problem under Brian Schottenheimer and his staff — went unanswered by the second-year coach.
HuffPost obtained a copy of Biden’s new memoir, “Promise Me, America.”

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Energies Media
A massive solar facility at a Florida airport had to relocate state-threatened species to meet conservation regulations.
The Sunshine State is rapidly expanding its renewable energy infrastructure across major public lands to meet surging electricity demand.
However, utility-scale photovoltaic facilities often overlap with vital local habitats.
To avoid ecological conflict, comprehensive mitigation strategies must be deployed before land clearing can begin.
Can Florida successfully expand its clean energy capacity while protecting sensitive local species?
Florida has grown in popularity due to its warm climate, extensive coastline, entertainment, and favorable economy.
This triggered rapid population growth, ranking it as the country’s third most populous state.
With thousands of new residents relocating daily, residential and commercial power demand has significantly increased.
Furthermore, shifting climate patterns have escalated summer temperatures.
As a result, air conditioning systems are being pushed to record limits.
Florida has an installed generation capacity of more than 72,000 MW to support 22 million residents.
However, state utilities predict that peak electricity demand will increase by 15% to 30% over the next decade.
This rapid surge is further compounded by statewide data center and electric vehicle expansion.
Continuously rising demand is placing severe strain on Florida’s power grid.
To relieve this pressure and prevent sudden electricity outages, the growing supply gap must be bridged urgently.
Solar energy is a core pillar for the state’s grid stability, but deployment must accelerate.
Natural gas currently fuels almost 70% of Florida’s power generation.
Continued reliance on fossil fuel infrastructure during peak demand spikes significantly inflates carbon emissions.
This complicates the state’s ability to meet national climate mandates aiming for rapid decarbonization.
That is why utility-scale solar capacity growth must accelerate.
Major utilities plan to add thousands of megawatts of solar capacity over the next decade.
This will help the state achieve clean grid goals and save customers billions in fuel costs.
However, tens of thousands of acres must be secured to deploy massive photovoltaic arrays.
This creates spatial conflict with native ecosystems.
It also sparks local opposition, as large solar developments on undeveloped land often overlap with fragile wildlife habitats.
Fortunately, environmental firms like Stantec help navigate regulatory and ecological challenges.
This ensures that clean energy growth is balanced with specialized environmental oversight.
Stantec works with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to create mitigation protocols and secure necessary permits.
Solar facilities are becoming common at major airports, as these sites offer flat, open spaces and clear regulatory pathways.
However, some still face significant ecological challenges due to overlapping native wildlife habitats.
The large-scale solar expansion at Tallahassee International Airport exemplifies this.
The 62-megawatt, 350-acre facility required clearing land that directly threatened local subterranean ecosystems.
Within the construction site were active underground burrows used by state-threatened gopher tortoises and other commensal species.
Heavy machinery operations could trigger burrow collapse and direct wildlife mortality.
Stantec established a species protection and mitigation program to prevent these risks.
The site was systematically surveyed, underground burrows excavated, and fauna safely captured before construction began.
This enabled the successful relocation of 20 gopher tortoises and 55 commensal snakes to conservation sites.
Thanks to these innovative mitigation efforts, the Tallahassee International Airport solar farm is fully operational.
The facility is one of the largest airport-based solar installations in the U.S.
It now produces clean electricity for thousands of homes across the regional grid.
Ultimately, implementing these nature-based mitigation and conservation strategies will fast-track the development of prospective utility-scale solar facilities at airports.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.
Anke Maree is a writer with a clear and engaging editorial style. Her work focuses on making complex topics accessible, informative, and relevant for readers across different areas of interest.

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Tribal Business News
Business, economy, and community news from Indian Country
The Rappahannock Tribe announced it installed a 12.32-kilowatt rooftop solar array at the Rappahannock Lodge on Cat Point Creek in Virginia, helping reduce electricity costs at the tribe’s environmental and conservation education facility.
The 28-panel system has generated nearly 2 megawatt-hours of electricity since entering service, reducing utility costs at the lodge and providing data the tribe can use to evaluate future energy projects, according to a news release from the tribe and its partners. 
Native-owned Polaris EcoSystems helped manage the project from grant writing through planning and installation at no cost to the tribe. Funding came from a 2025 capacity-building grant through Tribal Energy Alternatives’ Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund.
The Piedmont Environmental Council also supported the project. The organization worked with Polaris EcoSystems to secure initial technical assistance funding through the U.S. Department of Energy for solar siting research.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service transferred the 7,520-square-foot lodge to the tribe in 2023 for use as an Indigenous environmental and conservation education center. Cat Point Creek is the site of the tribe’s ancestral capital town.
The solar installation also serves as a demonstration project at the lodge, allowing the tribe to monitor electricity production across seasons and incorporate system performance data into its education and conservation programs, according to the release. 
Never miss the biggest stories and breaking news about the tribal economy. Sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every Monday morning.
To reach the newsroom or submit news, email editor@tribalbusinessnews.com. Subscribe Today! More by Tribal Business News Staff
New York has sued the Interior Department over a decision to place 207 acres of Seneca Nation land on Grand Island, near…
A leadership dispute within the Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town has drawn prediction market operator Kalshi into a lawsuit over who had authority to…
Eight Wisconsin tribal nations have joined the defense of a lawsuit challenging a state law that could pave the way for statewide…
The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians, also known as the Colusa Indian Community, added 519 acres to its trust land base,…

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Abu Dhabi clean energy company Masdar has announced the completion of its $950 million Lockhart Solar and Storage complex in California, adding significant utility-scale generation and grid-stability assets to the U.S. market. 
Developed by Terra-Gen, which is jointly owned by Masdar and Igneo Infrastructure Partners, the facility features 365 MW of solar photovoltaic generation paired with 173.7 MW of battery energy storage systems. Combined, the installation is designed to generate enough electricity to meet the annual needs of approximately 350,000 homes and businesses. 
The multi-year construction effort drove substantial localized economic activity across the region. Over a four-year development span, the project supported more than 1,000 peak on-site construction jobs and accumulated roughly 880,000 working hours. Over its operational lifecycle, the facility is projected to deliver upwards of $40 million in local property tax revenue alongside direct community benefit funds. Commercially, the project is backed by a hybrid of long-term power purchase agreements with California load-serving entities and corporate offtake agreements. 
The milestone underscores Masdar’s aggressive growth trajectory in the United States, where it has already invested approximately $3 billion. Backed by its shareholders TAQA, ADNOC, and Mubadala, the company plans to inject an additional $20 billion into the U.S. market over the coming decade. 
Masdar is targeting an expansion of its U.S. renewable energy portfolio to as much as 25 GW by 2030, driven heavily by surging power demand from commercial data centers, industrial electrification, and domestic manufacturing load growth. Globally, the Abu Dhabi clean energy powerhouse continues scaling toward a 100 GW portfolio capacity target by the end of the decade. 
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: [email protected].
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Tuesday, November 24, 2026
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The new issue of pv magazine Global is out now!
Available in print and digital – get your copy today!
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© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
“Have them document it so you have legs to stand on.”
Photo Credit: iStock
A California homeowner is facing worsening roof leaks beneath an eight-year-old solar installation, raising concerns about repairs despite a warranty they believed was still active.
After inheriting the system with their home, they turned to Reddit for guidance on where to start: with the solar installer or an independent roofer.
They identified the company that installed the system in the post. Their account on the r/solar community described successive winter rainy seasons bringing both additional leaks and worsening leakage.
The installation drew suspicion because the leaks were confined to the roof beneath the panels.
“The side/slope without the panels is pristine,” the original poster observed.
Negative online reviews, the homeowner explained in a reply, were behind their reluctance to contact the company, even though they thought the warranty had a couple of years left.
For households considering residential solar, potential electricity savings make installer selection especially important. $0-upfront solar leases may offer savings of hundreds of dollars per month, depending on the home and agreement. EasyHome offers a free explorer tool to estimate possible savings and find vetted local installers, helping homeowners weigh options before committing.
Whether an independent inspection would carry any weight if the installer denied responsibility was another concern. With a ceiling hatch providing attic access, the homeowner asked if a roofer could examine the rafters and insulation.
With energy prices through the roof, there’s never been a better time to go solar — and EasyHome can help you find the best prices from the best installers in your area.
EasyHome takes the guesswork and headaches out of energy upgrades by showing you estimated savings from a network of vetted local partners. To get started, just enter your ZIP and share a few details about your home — seeing your estimate is really that easy.
Flashing installed incorrectly around vents or other roof features was one possible cause raised in the comments. The same commenter asked about snow or ice buildup before the leaks and recommended a professional roofer’s inspection.
“Have them document it so you have legs to stand on,” they advised.
Another user noted that in California, where the homeowner was based, solar has a minimum 10-year penetration warranty that could compel the installers to play ball.
Prompt photographs of the affected areas were part of one commenter’s top-rated advice, along with making the solar company the first call.
“They may take care of it with no trouble,” they explained. “If you run into problems/pushback, that is the time to call in a 3rd party IMHO.”
The original poster said the advice was the “lil push” they needed to begin the process.
“Whatever the outcome, we have to get that roof fixed and get this ball rolling,” they concluded.
For homeowners evaluating an inherited system’s longer-term usefulness alongside repairs, EasyHome also offers options for exploring battery storage. Pairing solar with batteries can help manage electricity costs by storing energy for later use and can provide backup power during outages, depending on the system’s configuration.
Other homeowners with leaks beneath their solar panels have also had questions about warranty coverage and repairs. 
• California homeowners facing a leak near solar panels were urged to get photos.
• A homeowner says their solar installer demanded $2,300 to check a leak and barred outside work.
• A solar system owner says a warranty swap left a gap while contract terms blocked repairs.
• In New York, a homeowner found an attic leak beneath solar panels, complicating repairs.
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.
© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.

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SMA Solar stock traded at EUR 49.17 on Lang & Schwarz at 08:35 CET on Friday, November 13, 2026, down 0.30% against the Xetra close of Thursday, November 12, 2026.
SMA Solar Technology AG develops photovoltaic system technology for residential customers, commercial businesses and large-scale renewable power projects. The company says it has more than 4,000 employees in 20 countries and provides solutions designed to support decentralized and digital energy supply. Further company information is available on the SMA investor-relations page.
SMA’s investor-relations calendar listed the January-to-September 2026 quarterly statement and analyst conference call for Thursday, November 12, 2026. That update was the latest scheduled operating milestone in the company’s published calendar.
For investors, the next focus is how the nine-month business update shapes expectations for the remainder of 2026 and whether management’s operating priorities translate into sustained demand across its photovoltaic markets.
In the broader German market, investors can follow the DAX as a benchmark for the domestic equity backdrop.
More news and analyses on SMA Solar stock

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Soda ash dependency threatens India’s clean tech ambitions, reveals new report  The New Indian Express
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Laser Recycling Method Achieves Over 95% Silver Extraction Selectivity From Solar Panels  AZoOptics
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Solar roofing continues to evolve as manufacturers look for ways to integrate energy generation more directly into the roof system. Recent developments range from solar shingles designed for conventional residential applications to photovoltaic components built into insulated metal panels and emerging flexible solar materials.
For North American roofing contractors, these products offer an early look at where the market may be headed. The following four products and concepts highlight some of the latest approaches shaping the next generation of solar roofing.

Photo: Certainteed
CertainTeed has introduced Landmark PWR, a building-integrated photovoltaic roofing system that combines residential solar generation with the appearance and functionality of an asphalt shingle roof. The system uses frameless, 85-watt solar shingles that install directly to the roof deck and feature 24 half-cut monocrystalline cells with 21.1% cell efficiency. Each shingle also incorporates two bypass diodes to minimize power losses from localized shading.
Landmark PWR pairs with CertainTeed’s Protect FR self-adhering underlayment, which provides fire and weather protection and enables a Class A fire rating over combustible roof decks. Designed with roofing contractors in mind, individual solar shingles can be removed and replaced without disturbing surrounding roofing materials. The system is also compatible with third-party microinverters and power optimizers. CertainTeed backs Landmark PWR with 25-year limited power and workmanship warranties. Availability is scheduled to begin Nov. 1, 2026.

Photo: The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research
The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, or TNO, has developed a flexible perovskite photovoltaic module that can be integrated onto a curved roof tile, demonstrating a potential new approach to building-integrated solar. Developed with ASAT B.V., the concept applies a flexible perovskite solar module on foil to a composite roof tile. The individual modules reached efficiencies of up to 13.8%, while the finished curved roof tile retained 12.4% efficiency.
According to TNO, it is the first electrically functioning solar roof tile concept based on flexible perovskite solar cells. The technology is designed for roll-to-roll production, which could eventually enable lightweight solar foils to be manufactured at scale and incorporated into roofing and other building surfaces that aren’t well suited to conventional rigid solar panels. TNO launched spinout Perovion Technologies in March 2026 to advance flexible perovskite technology toward industrial production and commercialization.

Photo: ArcelorMittal
ArcelorMittal Building Solutions’ Helioroof combines an insulated steel roofing panel and photovoltaic generation into a single factory-manufactured building component. Helioroof incorporates TOPCon silicon solar cells directly into a PIR-insulated steel sandwich panel. Custom modules can measure from 2 to 12 meters long and deliver between 307 Wp and 2,148 Wp, with the solar laminate producing up to 200 Wp per square meter.
Depending on insulation thickness, the complete panels weigh approximately 13.5 to 17.5 kilograms per square meter. ArcelorMittal says the integrated design can be installed 40% faster than traditional insulated roofs with separately installed solar panels and adds only 2.5 kilograms per square meter for solar generation.
Electrical connections are located inside the building, eliminating exterior roof cabling. Commercial production began at ArcelorMittal’s Contrisson, France, facility following the production line’s October 2025 inauguration. Initial projects include industrial buildings, a brewery and a residential project.

Photo: ML System
Poland-based ML System has introduced PhotonRoof, a building-integrated photovoltaic roofing system that gives architects and building owners more aesthetic options than conventional rooftop solar. PhotonRoof combines photovoltaic generation and weather protection in tiles designed to integrate with conventional roofing. The portfolio includes Modern and Vintage styles along with finishes intended to replicate materials such as slate, wood and copper, allowing the technology to be considered for residential, commercial and architecturally sensitive projects.
Depending on configuration, PhotonRoof modules range from small individual tiles to modules measuring up to 1,828 by 465 millimeters. The highest-output Modern configuration reaches up to 136 Wp per square meter. Matching passive tiles and edge components can be used around dormers, valleys, chimneys and other roof details to maintain a consistent appearance.
The system has been tested for conditions including hail and high winds and carries a 30-year manufacturer performance warranty. PhotonRoof can also connect with ML System’s building energy-management platform for monitoring, load management, battery optimization and remote diagnostics.
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Austria plans to overhaul solar subsidies after financing for small solar PV systems was exhausted in seconds during the country’s last funding call.
The Austrian Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism has announced the conclusion of the third and final funding round for photovoltaic systems and electricity storage in 2026.
According to State Secretary for Energy Elisabeth Zehetner, while the results show a positive interest in solar PV and storage, they also highlight that the current funding system has reached its limits.
A total of 41,322 applications were submitted, requesting approximately €192 million in funding. However, only 7,007 funding commitments were issued.
According to the Ministry statement, the need for funding reform was especially obvious for smaller solar PV systems of up to 10kWp. Funding was only available for applications submitted within the first 29 seconds after the funding call opened.
Zehetner suggests the results show a need for a redesign of the existing funding system. “When a few seconds determine whether a small system receives funding, then we need to change the rules of the game. We are therefore working on a new model that will create greater planning certainty and focus on intelligent storage solutions. We are currently preparing the necessary legislation."
Zehetner explains that solar PV is a well-established technology in Austria. The focus now needs to be on better utilising self-generated electricity and relieving the strain on our grids.
“For this, we need more intelligent storage systems and a funding system that enables reliable planning for both households and installation companies. An installation company must be able to plan its orders according to its customers' needs, not according to a few seconds in the funding calendar," said Zehetner.
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Renewable energy financing enters a new era in Europe
To allow for these advances in the market, amendments to the Renewable Energy Sources Act are being planned. These include revisions to the existing PV investment subsidies, as well as a storage system bonus to replace the traditional subsidies for PV modules.
This bonus will support both storage systems in new installations and the retrofitting of existing PV systems.
Intelligent energy management systems will also be a prerequisite to ensure solar power is used and stored most efficiently for households and the overall energy system.
The policy reforms will emphasise European value creation. Zehetner argues that the current first-come, first-served system creates uncertainty and disadvantages applicants. For this reason, this principle will be abolished and replaced with a continuous application process following project completion.
Furthermore, the Ministry states that for new solar plus storage systems, a "Made in Europe" inverter will be mandatory.
For retrofitting existing PV installations, an additional "Made in Europe" bonus for storage systems will still be available.
Besides redesigning the subsidy programme, the planned amendment to the Renewable Energy Expansion Act aims to create a framework to reduce the renewable energy subsidy lump sum to zero for 2027.
Together with the planned suspension of the renewable energy subsidy contribution, this would help to ease the financial burden on households and businesses.
The goal is to bring the redesign of the funding programme, along with the legal prerequisites for suspending the renewable energy flat rate and the subsidy contribution for 2027, to parliamentary debate as early as next week.
"We want to achieve two things simultaneously: reduce electricity costs for households and businesses and further develop the subsidies so that we can achieve more for our energy system with the available funds. Preparations for this are in full swing. Our goal is to bring the legal framework to parliament next week. This requires a two-thirds majority. I hope that all parties recognise this opportunity to take an important step together towards affordable energy and a more efficient energy transition," said Zehetner.
Zehetner emphasised Austria's position on creating value for Europe in her in Vienna this week.
"Our ambition must be to decarbonise Europe's industries without driving out production of Europe,” declared Zehetner. “If a factory closes here and its products are imported from somewhere else with higher emissions, we have lost jobs without solving the climate problem. Climate policy and industrial policy must therefore go hand in hand, and the energy transition will then succeed when investing in cleaner production also makes sense from a business perspective.”
Zehetner made it clear that any European energy investment should help European companies build the strength that enables them to compete on the international stage. She said: “This is why Made in Europe matters. We need strong capabilities along strategic value chains; from research and components to manufacturing, from deployment to recycling – and reliable international partners are part of this effort.”
It’s EIFO’s largest financing commitment to date and will form part of the £12 billion investment needed to finance the Vanguard East and Vanguard West projects
SNETP brings together industry, research organisations, academia and policymakers to develop reliable nuclear systems, writes Abderrahim Al Mazouzi
The responsibility towards the next generation should be at the heart of Europe's energy strategy hears Enlit Europe audience from Stephan Sharma
Volkswagen Poznań’s Crafter factory is now fully energy self-sufficient on sunny days, thanks to the completion of an 18.3MW solar power plant.
In response to the growing increase in energy demand in recent years, Siemens and Sarpel have taken a step forward in the construction of electrical substations.
In this Energy Transitions podcast, Jostein Røynesdal of Hydro and Hélène Lavray of Dow, unpack the complexities of the CBAM mechanism.
Market design, energy trading, policy changes and energy communities, all in one place – plus the key companies and projects in the sector. 

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Friday, 13 November 2026 at 15:43
Earlier this year Manx Utilities was granted approval for 1,200 panels (735kW) on the NSC
Approximately 1.3 percent of government-owned buildings currently have solar panels installed, based on 11 buildings from an estate of approximately 825.
That figure was provided by Infrastructure Minister Jason Moorhouse in a written answer to Glenfaba and Peel MHK Katryna Baptist. 
Mr Moorhouse said there are currently no plans for a significant increase in installations across the government estate in the short term. 
He added: "While PV will continue to be considered where it is technically and financially appropriate, the operating profile of many government buildings means that the electricity generated does not always align sufficiently with periods of demand to provide an attractive financial return. 
"The department is, however, currently working with Manx Utilities to explore the potential for a direct to-grid solar array at the NSC."
Earlier this year Manx Utilities was granted approval for 1,200 panels (735kW) on the NSC roof. 
Mr Moorhouse said that instead of a standalone programme solar panels will be 'one element of its wider programme to decarbonise Government buildings'.
He added: "A decarbonisation roadmap has been developed covering 336 buildings and identifying potential retrofit requirements and investment priorities through to 2050. 
"The roadmap considers an investment pathway of approximately £5 million per annum across the wider decarbonisation of the estate and is not a dedicated solar PV budget.
"Investment will be prioritised across a range of measures, including insulation, LED lighting, building controls, low-carbon heating and, where appropriate, solar PV."
In response to the part of Mrs Baptist's question which centred on a payback period, Mr Moorhouse said there isn't a single period that can be applied, adding 'immediate focus is on those decarbonisation measures that provide the strongest financial and carbon benefit across the estate'.
King William's College received £2.25m loan in 2025
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“As long as the specs are equal, you could have 20 different brands on your roof.”
Photo Credit: iStock
After a gutter worker spotted a damaged solar panel, a homeowner was told they would need to replace a 21-panel rooftop array.
The baffled homeowner went to Reddit for advice.
The homeowner reported in Reddit’s r/solarenergy community that they contacted the solar company and were told they couldn’t replace just one panel.
The company’s proposal was a new rooftop array. “They’d have to replace all of them as those panels were no longer available,” the original poster wrote. “Is this really a thing?”
Commenters were skeptical of that assessment.
Residential solar can help lower electricity bills and provide energy independence. Some households may also save hundreds of dollars per month through $0 upfront solar leases. EasyHome offers a free explorer tool to estimate potential savings and connect homeowners with vetted local installers.
Whether the panels used series or parallel wiring would determine which specification a replacement needed to match, commenters said.
“All you need is a panel with either same amps or volts,” one said. “You want amps if they are wired in parallel or volts if they are wired in series.”
With energy prices through the roof, there’s never been a better time to go solar — and EasyHome can help you find the best prices from the best installers in your area.
EasyHome takes the guesswork and headaches out of energy upgrades by showing you estimated savings from a network of vetted local partners. To get started, just enter your ZIP and share a few details about your home — seeing your estimate is really that easy.
Another added, “As long as the specs are equal, you could have 20 different brands on your roof.”
For homeowners considering adding storage to their setup, EasyHome also offers options for exploring battery storage quotes. Pairing solar with an appropriately configured battery can allow you to use electricity when it costs less and provide backup power during outages.
Other solar owners have run into expensive repair quotes and trouble replacing aging equipment. 
• A cracked 430W panel still worked, but DIYers questioned how long it would last.
• In North Carolina, a homeowner facing a $10,000 repair quote found one bad microinverter.
• A solar owner lost monitoring, then received a $2,000 inspection quote for the 10-year-old system.
• A U.K. homeowner reported scratches and crooked rows after a 13-panel solar installation.
• In California, replacing 13-year-old solar panels requires longer rails or more roof holes.
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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The US solar project pipeline expanded by 88% in the twelve months through October 2026, yet close to half of all utility-scale projects never reach completion, according to pv magazine. Data compiled by software supplier PVcase, drawing on a survey of utility-scale solar professionals, points to recurring patterns behind these failures, though the source notes that every project is distinct.
The findings suggest that common failure modes can be identified across the sector despite the uniqueness of individual developments. The source does not specify which failure modes were most prevalent or the size of the survey sample.
The publication also highlighted a series of industry events, including a session on solar quality and outstanding technical risks, alongside discussions of cybersecurity and procurement questions facing European solar projects in 2027 and beyond. A separate session was scheduled to address Europe’s solar and storage markets for 2027 and the business cases for co-locating solar with storage across three markets.
The pipeline growth figure and the completion shortfall together indicate that volume in early-stage development does not reliably translate into operating capacity. The source did not provide a breakdown of where attrition occurs within the project lifecycle.
Interactive table based on the Store Companies dataset for this report.
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China’s solar export market shows significant shifts in 2025, as global solar supply chains increasingly diversify. Ember now tracks and publishes cell and wafer exports from China in addition to panels, on a monthly basis, available via the interactive data tool and open dataset. 
In this commentary, we provide a brief analysis of the cells and wafers dataset. The key takeaways are:
Cell and wafer exports are more than making up for the stagnation in Chinese solar panel exports so far in 2025. To understand the growing global solar supply chain, it’s now crucial to track products upstream of panels. India is driving growth in cell exports, whilst panels must now find new markets to go to.
China exports not only significant amounts of solar panels, but also increasingly significant amounts of solar cells and wafers. China accounts for the largest share of manufacturing capacity at every stage of the solar panel supply chain. According to the IEA’s latest Photovoltaic Power Systems report, in 2023 China produced 98% of solar wafers, 92% of cells and 85% of panels globally.
As global pressures to manufacture panels locally have increased, the supply chain is changing and it is no longer sufficient to track only panel exports. Based on the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) and Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) reporting of exports, Ember now reports the monthly exports of these products by country. Details of how this dataset is compiled can be found in the Methodology.
For the first time since GACC reported panel and cell exports separately in 2022, panel export growth is stagnating. Cumulative panel exports have fallen by 5.2% year-on-year in the first 6 months of 2025 (-6.7 GW). Cell and wafer exports, however, have increased by 76% (+19 GW) and 26% (+8.6 GW) respectively. This increase means that combined solar product capacity exported by China is 11% higher than in the first half of 2024. The 208 GW that has been exported so far this year is more than twice Germany’s total installed solar capacity as of the end of 2024.  
The growth in cell and wafer exports is a multi-year trend. From 2022 to 2024, cell exports have increased from 23 GW to 57 GW (+144%). Wafers increased from 36 GW to 60 GW (+67%) over the same period. So far in 2025, China has exported more solar cells (7.5 GW) and wafers (7 GW) on average each month than the total installed solar capacity of Portugal (6.3 GW). This growth has pushed cells and wafers to now make up more than 40% of China’s exported solar products.
Prices of solar products have fallen dramatically in recent years, with production innovations and the rapid expansion of manufacturing capacity contributing. After a silicon price spike in 2021-2022, caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, cells now cost less than a quarter of the average price across 2022. Meanwhile panel prices have fallen 63% over this period. Prices of Chinese products have stabilised since late 2024, amid intensifying industry and government efforts to maintain profitability. China’s extraordinary solar capacity installations in H1 2025, driven by a rush to deploy ahead of market rule changes, have helped buoy prices. It is not clear how prices will evolve in the second half of the year.
Panel price reductions are in large part due to the fall in cell prices. Since August 2022, the price of cells and panels exported from China has fallen by $0.16 and $0.20 per Watt respectively (cells from $0.19/W to $0.03/W, panels from $0.29/W to $0.09/W). More than 50% of the raw cost of Chinese solar panels is now contributed by components other than solar cells, such as glass facing and the aluminium border.
As installations slow and stockpiles are accessed, European and Latin American panel imports are down in 2025, driving a fall in China’s total panel exports. Amid slowing deployment of rooftop solar and drawdown of warehouse stocks, EU solar capacity additions are expected to fall for the first time since 2016. The Netherlands, a major re-export hub of solar panels for Europe, is importing 30% fewer (-7.5 GW) panels in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. This is the second consecutive year of decline in solar exports to Europe. In Brazil, meanwhile, panel imports from China decreased by 42% and solar installations by 36% in the first half of 2025, partly because of delays in grid connection availability. 
Whilst Europe dominated demand for total solar product exports until 2023, in the first 6 months of 2025, Asia imported 114 GW, more than twice as much as Europe’s 54 GW. Increased demand for cells in India, Indonesia and Türkiye is reshaping solar trade. In the first half of 2025, these countries accounted for 75% of global demand for Chinese solar cells.
India is rapidly building up its domestic panel and cell manufacturing industry. The Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has reported that in the financial year of 2024, 36 GW of panel capacity and 16 GW of cell capacity were added. As of March 2025, panel and cell manufacturing capacities stood at 68 GW and 25 GW respectively, more than double the solar capacity India installed in 2024 (32 GW). 120 GW of panel capacity is targeted by 2030.
This manufacturing capacity aims both to supply the domestic market, and to export to other countries. So far exports have been almost entirely to the US, which restricts Chinese imports via the UFLPA. Following recent scrutiny of Indian panels containing Chinese cells, and the US’s efforts to protect its own domestic industry, Indian exports to the US have fallen by 30% in GW terms in the first half of 2025.
With panel manufacturing capacity outpacing cell capacity, India currently relies on cell imports to feed its panel factories. In the first half of 2025, India’s cell imports have almost doubled compared to the same period last year, increasing from 11 GW to 21 GW. This increase accounts for 52% of the growth in Chinese cell exports between H1 2024 and H1 2025.
With the recent decision to extend ALMM status to domestic cell manufacturers from June 2026, India is now aiming to accelerate its domestic cell manufacturing capacity, with 65 GW expected by 2030, less than current panel manufacturing capacity. Wafer imports are now also accelerating to feed cell production.
Beyond its role in global solar trade, India’s domestic clean energy buildout is also accelerating. In June 2025, India hit a milestone of over 50% capacity from clean sources for the first time, with solar now making up 24% of India’s total capacity. With solar capacity set to double in many states by 2030-35, India’s development of local industry underpins its commitment to clean power.
Ember is an independent, not-for-profit energy think tank that aims to shift the world to clean electricity using data. It gathers, curates and analyses data on the global power sector and its impact on the climate, using cutting edge technologies and making data and research as open as possible. It uses data-driven insights to shift the conversation towards high impact policies and empower other advocates to do the same. Founded in 2008 as Sandbag, it formerly focused on analysing, monitoring and reforming the EU carbon market, before rebranding as Ember in 2020. Its team of electricity analysts and other support staff are based around the world in the EU, UK, Türkiye, India, China and Indonesia.
The IEA has stated that China’s solar photovoltaic exports account for 80% of the global market. While there is a wide variety of products that make up the solar supply chain, panels, cells and wafers make up the majority of exports by trade value, and can be expressed in GW terms. Ember tracks these products to give a clearer picture of the global solar supply chain.
Ember’s China solar exports dataset is sourced from the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC):
Average monthly panel, cell and wafer prices are sourced from weekly InfoLink Consulting Group publications. Prices are reported in USD/W for panels and cells and USD/pc for wafers. The market shares of each type for panels, cells and wafers are based on annual shares reported by the IEA and InfoLink. These annual shares are scaled to estimated monthly market shares, used to weight the types and calculate an average monthly price.
Prices are interpolated for missing months in 2017. The monthly product prices are included in the data download.
The capacity (MW) of the solar export products in this dataset is not reported by GACC. Ember estimates it using the following methods:
GACC releases the monthly solar export data with a one month lag (except for January and February data, which is released together in March). The GACC release is usually available on the 20th of the month, and this dataset is updated shortly afterwards.
GACC export data records the first country products are exported to, which may not be the final destination country. This is particularly evident for exports to The Netherlands, which is a major re-export hub for European countries.
The price to capacity conversion of panels and cells is based on the average prices of each product type reported for that month. This should be regarded as an indicative value useful for comparing broad trends. In reality, the exact amounts of each product type and price they were traded at are not available in the customs data, and may vary by country.
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Michele D’Ottavio / Alamy
Ember is an energy think tank that aims to accelerate the clean energy transition with data and policy. Ember is the trading name of Ember Energy Research CIC, a Community Interest Company registered in England & Wales #06714443. ‘Ember’ is a trademark held at the United Kingdom and European Union Intellectual Property Offices. All content is released under a Creative Commons Attribution Licence (CC-BY-4.0). Website powered by 100% renewable electricity.
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Visitors traversing Catalina Island wildlands near the Airport in the Sky will soon encounter an unexpected silhouette on the landscape. It’s not that of an animal, rather it’s the steel structure and panels of a solar array designed to offset power at the airport and other Conservancy buildings, according to a statement released this week.
According to Conservancy spokesperson Pepe Barton, this initiative is designed to bring more renewable energy to the Island will become reality with completion of the project, which is the largest solar energy array on Catalina.
The installation began Sept. 1, which aligned with the end of bird nesting season so that work didn’t disrupt their breeding patterns. The project includes several features designed to protect native species and their habitats while allowing wildlife to move through the area.
“The fencing is raised about 8 inches around the bottom so [foxes and squirrels] can easily get in and out of the structure,” said Conservancy Director of Capital Planning Carlos Rodarte in the statement.
“We’re installing a camera system facing the solar field so we can monitor to make sure no animals or critters are stuck or endangered inside the fence. We’re not disturbing the land – we’re actually elevating the platform to keep as much of the native landscape intact as possible.”
The project is a 170-kilowatt system, which is about 10 times what a home solar system produces. This solar photovoltaic (PV) system converts sunlight into electricity, providing a renewable source of power that helps reduce reliance on conventional energy sources and supports more sustainable operations on Catalina Island.
Investments in renewable energy help the Conservancy reduce its environmental footprint while advancing its mission to protect and restore Catalina Island for future generations.
Small units exist at the Trailhead Visitor Center and University of Southern California Wrigley on Catalina, but they generate only a fraction of this system’s capability. Bringing solar to the Island at this scale is about six years in the making and was initiated by a Catalina tourist with a passion for clean energy.
“I was on holiday on Catalina Island maybe 10 years ago, and being an energy nerd, I looked up how does Catalina Island get their power,” said Mark Tholke. “Turns out it’s diesel generators. I realized we’ve got to do something better than this.”
Tholke, who is the managing principal of Golden State Renewable Energy, began making calls and sending emails to Conservancy leadership to encourage adoption of solar power. Once the Conservancy was awarded a grant from Edison International, the effort began.
Conservancy facilities staff, Tholke and Sattler Energy have been collaborating to bring the project to fruition. On one particularly hot September morning, crews could be seen along the road beneath the airport pouring concrete and installing solar panels.
“People don’t generally think it’s hot weather here, but it’s 100 degrees today,” said Rodarte. “It’s very warm. We’re in a canyon. It’s difficult to get water, supplies, etc. There are serious challenges. On the mainland, if you’re missing a screw or piece, you can drive down to the hardware store and pick one up. Here, it’s a three-day delay.”
Tholke said a project of such unique challenges would not be possible without the expertise and location-specific insight of the Conservancy facilities team.
“We could not have done the project without the Conservancy,” Tholke explained. “I’m not just saying the arrangement with the land being owned by the Conservancy, but the talent that Conservancy employees have brought to the cement, trucks, trenching, ground crews, weed abatement. It’s been remarkable and impressive to not just me, but others on the team who at one point said, ‘I would not be driving that truck.’ These guys are really that skilled.”
The Conservancy will utilize renewable energy tax credits. Implementation of the system is expected to reduce energy costs by at least $40,000 annually. But it’s not just about cost savings. Rodarte said the impact on the environment here and on the mainland is a strong motivator to support renewable energy sources on Catalina.
“As a conservation organization, it’s important that we put the right step forward in all we do, not just preserving the land – but the earth,” said Rodarte. “It’s not just isolated to where we are on our land, but showing we are a good steward of the planet as a whole.”
The Catalina Island Conservancy gratefully acknowledges Edison International for its generous support of this renewable energy project and its investment in a more sustainable future for Catalina Island, the statement concluded.

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Kyrgyzstan’s pilot floating solar plant at GES-5 near Bishkek/ egov.kg
Kyrgyzstan plans to build a 15 MW floating solar power plant on the reservoir at Hydropower Plant No. 5 (HPP-5), about 10 kilometers northeast of Bishkek, as the country seeks to reduce its dependence on electricity imports.
Kyrgyzstan expects to import 4.1 billion kWh of electricity in 2026, about one-fifth of its projected consumption of 19.6 billion kWh. The country relies heavily on hydropower, leaving electricity supplies vulnerable to low reservoir levels. Energy officials have warned that shortages could occur during peak demand this winter.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) describes the proposed plant as Kyrgyzstan’s first utility-scale floating solar power plant. A 100 kW pilot plant has operated on the same reservoir since March 1, 2024. The state-owned Chakan GES OJSC built it with an ADB grant.
The larger project is being developed under a cooperation agreement between Chakan GES and the ADB. The bank has proposed $20 million in financing, comprising a $19.55 million concessional loan and a $450,000 grant. The project has not yet received approval, and no construction timetable has been announced.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the pilot plant generated 141,100 kWh in 2025. The ministry says installing panels on water saves land, can reduce evaporation, and allows the project to use existing hydropower infrastructure.
The ADB expects the HPP-5 project to establish a technical and commercial model that can be used at other reservoirs. The bank estimates that those sites could host floating solar plants with a combined capacity of about 176 MW. Future projects could involve private investors.
Kyrgyzstan opened its first large-scale solar power plant in December 2025 in the Kemin district of the Chui region, about 100 kilometers east of Bishkek. The 100 MW plant was built with Chinese investment at a cost of $56 million. The Ministry of Energy estimates that the plant could generate about 210 million kWh a year.
If the proposed HPP-5 plant and all 176 MW of additional floating solar capacity were developed, they would have a combined capacity of about 191 MW. Based on the performance of the existing pilot plant and projected generation at Kemin, this could produce roughly 300 million kWh of electricity annually, equivalent to about 1.5% of Kyrgyzstan’s projected electricity consumption in 2026.
However, the much larger 1,900 MW solar project being developed by Vietnam’s ROX Energy Global near Lake Issyk-Kul could make a more substantial contribution. Its first 175 MW phase began operating in June 2026, and the Ministry of Energy estimates that the completed plant could generate around 3.3 billion kWh annually, equivalent to nearly 17% of the country’s projected 2026 electricity consumption. The remaining phases are expected to come online in 2027 and 2028.
Sergey Kwan
Sergey Kwan has worked for The Times of Central Asia as a journalist, translator and editor since its foundation in March 1999. Prior to this, from 1996-1997, he worked as a translator at The Kyrgyzstan Chronicle, and from 1997-1999, as a translator at The Central Asian Post.
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Kwan studied at the Bishkek Polytechnic Institute from 1990-1994, before completing his training in print journalism in Denmark.
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The Times of Central Asia © 2023

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Rooftop additions surged 122% YoY in Q3 2026
November 12, 2026
Follow Mercom India on WhatsApp for exclusive updates on clean energy news and insights
India installed 27.3 GW of large-scale solar capacity in the first nine months (9M) of the calendar year (CY) 2026, up 21% year-over-year (YoY) compared to 22.5 GW, according to Mercom India Research’s newly released 9M and Q3 2026 India Solar Market Update Report.
Utility-scale projects accounted for 70.9% of installations in 9M 2026, while rooftop solar contributed 29.1%. This marks a shift from 9M 2025, when utility-scale solar accounted for 81.5% of additions and rooftop solar represented 18.5%.
Total solar additions reached a record 38.5 GW in 9M 2026, up 40.3% YoY. Solar accounted for 77% of the 50 GW of new power capacity added during 9M 2026.
“India has already added more solar capacity in the first nine months of 2026 than in all of 2025, but the Q3 slowdown in large-scale installations shows where growth is being held back. Demand remains strong across utility-scale, open access, and rooftop solar, but transmission bottlenecks, domestic cell availability, higher costs, and delays in land, connectivity, and power offtake are slowing commissioning. The size of the project pipeline is significant, but what matters now is how much of that capacity can actually be brought online and on schedule,” commented Raj Prabhu, CEO at Mercom Capital Group.
Installation growth was driven by installations concentrated in the first half of 2026, as developers accelerated commissioning ahead of the June 1 implementation of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II requirements for solar cells and the phased reduction in interstate transmission system (ISTS) charge waivers beginning in July. These deadlines pulled some commissioning forward into the first half.
Priya Sanjay, Managing Director at Mercom India, said that ALMM List-II has exacerbated domestic solar cell shortages, driving module prices higher due to demand-supply imbalances rather than underlying component costs. “Unforeseen price increases are squeezing developer margins and disrupting financial projections. Concerns over module quality, bankability, and supplier availability could intensify demands for an extension.”
India added nearly 11 GW of solar capacity in Q3 2026, the fourth-highest quarterly total on record. Installations declined 9.5% QoQ but increased 19% YoY.  India added 6.3 GW of large-scale solar capacity in the third quarter of 2026, with installations down 24% quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) and 11% YoY. Large-scale projects accounted for 58% of total quarterly solar additions.

Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra led large-scale solar additions in Q3 2026, accounting for 28%, 25%, and 14% of quarterly capacity additions, respectively.

Rooftop solar installations climbed 22% QoQ to 4.7 GW, from 3.8 GW in Q2 2026, and rose 122% YoY from 2.1 GW in Q3 2025.
Sanjay noted that the PM Surya Ghar program has accelerated residential rooftop installations ahead of its March 2027 deadline, while electricity cost savings continue driving commercial and industrial adoption.
Rooftop solar made up a record 42% of quarterly solar additions, signaling a significant shift in the installation mix.

As of September 2026, India’s cumulative installed solar capacity reached 176.6 GW. Large-scale solar projects accounted for 82% of installed capacity, while rooftop solar made up the remaining 18%.
Solar comprised 31% of India’s total installed power capacity and 58% of installed renewable energy capacity.
The top 10 states accounted for 98% of large-scale solar capacity commissioned during Q3 2026.
Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka continued to lead the country in cumulative large-scale solar capacity, accounting for 30%, 22%, and 11% of installations, respectively.
In Q3, government agencies issued 9 GW of large-scale solar tenders, up 61% QoQ and down 51% YoY. Auctions totaled 4 GW, down 10% QoQ and up 64% YoY.
In 9M 2026, 22.6 GW of large-scale solar tenders were announced, down 47% compared to 42.6 GW in 9M 2025. Large-scale solar auctions totaled 13 GW, a 23% decline compared to 16.6 GW in 9M 2025.
Sanjay highlighted that unsigned power purchase agreements and power supply agreements have tied up developers’ working capital, while rising module costs threaten tariff competitiveness.
While solar demand remains strong, uncertainty over post-2030 renewable energy targets complicates investment planning, financing, and long-term demand visibility.
The report also provided installation trends by state, project pipeline analysis, tender and auction activity, and market forecasts to help developers, manufacturers, investors, and other industry participants assess emerging opportunities and execution risks.
Mercom’s 9M and Q3 2026 India Solar Market Update report covers all facets of India’s solar market. For the complete report, visit https://www.mercomindia.com/product/q3-2026-india-solar-market-update
Melvin Mathew
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© 2026 by Mercom Capital Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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T1 Energy has reported its third-quarter 2026 financial results, posting $196.6 million in net sales and a net loss from continuing operations of $34.7 million. The module manufacturer reported negative $16.4 million in Adjusted EBITDA during the quarter.
The company says full-year module production volume from its G1_Dallas facility is now expected to be between 4 GW and 4.2 GW, approaching the high end of its prior guidance range of between 3.1 GW and 4.2 GW. Looking ahead to 2027, T1 plans to produce 5.3 GW of modules.
During the quarter, T1 received a Section 232 waiver from the Commerce Department to import up to 1.725 GW of solar cells. On the company’s earnings call, executives said the company plans to pursue “a robust onshoring plan” with the U.S. Commerce Department, which could allow it to import cells and other polysilicon products without having to pay Section 232 duties. 
Other key topics introduced during the call included the delay of cell manufacturing at its G2_Austin facility until April, the differences in the company’s expected pricing for modules produced using imported and domestic cells, a decision to retain 326 megawatts of module inventory during the quarter and a letter of intent to potentially monetize a Nordic data center asset.
Cell manufacturing pushed out to April
When it first announced its G2_Austin cell manufacturing facility, T1 said it planned to begin producing cells by 2026, but that timeline has slid into 2027 as the company works to close financing for the completion of construction at the facility. 
On the company’s Q3 earnings call, T1 CEO Daniel Barcelo said the company was “attempting to keep the schedule on track” at the facility despite the delays in finalizing the funding. The CEO noted that process equipment for the facility is currently stored in warehouses in the United States and is fully owned by T1, while permitting and access to power and water are on track.
“Assuming we’re doing financial close by year-end, we would expect to finish construction, installation, commissioning and ramping by about midyear,” Barcelo said.
In a statement announcing its Q3 financial results the company said “Closing a comprehensive financing solution for G2_Austin remains T1’s top priority; however, there can be no assurance that definitive documents will be agreed, or that any such financing will be completed, on a timely basis on terms acceptable to T1, or at all.”
Pricing in the age of Section 232
During the earnings call, Barcelo reported that the company’s module pricing is currently “in the mid-30s” (cents per watt) for modules made using imported cells, and “going towards 40 and mid-40s” for modules made using its forthcoming domestic cells that are scheduled to be delivered in 2027.
Barcelo and T1 CFO Evan Calio noted that contracts it has locked in for 2027 at those pricing levels are for modules using the 1.725 GW of cells imported under its Section 232 waiver, and Calio noted that pricing could go higher in the future.
The Trump administration’s Section 232 proclamation put into place a price floor of $0.38/W for imported solar modules, along with 15% of ad valorem tariffs on all incoming polysilicon products, meaning the theoretical price of imported solar modules will be $0.437/W when the Section 232 duties take full effect on Dec. 4, 2026.
The demand for modules made using imported cells remains high, the executives said during the call. Calio noted that the company’s module production at its G1_Dallas facility is sold out through 2027 and said contracts between T1 and its customers are “significantly weighted towards an imported cell.” 
Barcelo pointed out that the company’s customers were pursuing a mix of modules made using imported and domestic cells. 
“A lot of customers are looking for blending to maximize the benefits of different tax incentives that may exist to minimize cost structure and also to ensure that they have a stronger and growing domestic content, which a lot of customers are seeking,” the CEO said.
Despite the setbacks announced in the earnings report, Barcelo closed the call with an upbeat assessment of the company’s future. 
“It’s really been night and day in terms of demand post 232,” he said. “The waiver has been very powerful. The new contracts we announced are a strong indicator. Our pipeline is robust. Pricing is good, and we’re really excited about advancing G2_Austin and getting these domestic cells online and helping to build the American solar industry.”
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Shinsung E&G, a solar module manufacturer based in South Korea, has introduced two new series of bifacial solar modules built on n-type tunnel oxide passivated contact cell technology, according to pv magazine. The lineup comprises the SS-JM-TK series intended for ground-mounted installations and the SS-JM-TN series aimed at floating photovoltaic and agrivoltaic applications, with each series offered in three versions rated at 640 W, 645 W and 650 W.
Both series use 156 bifacial monocrystalline cells and deliver conversion efficiencies between 22.89% and 23.25% under standard test conditions. The ground-mounted modules measure 2,465 mm by 1,134 mm by 30 mm and weigh 33.5 kg. The largest unit in that series, the SS-JM650TK, reaches 650 W of maximum power output at 23.25% efficiency, with an open-circuit voltage of 55.71 V and a short-circuit current of 14.52 A.
Under the manufacturer’s bifacial nominal power irradiance conditions, the ground-mounted series produces 700 W to 710 W, with efficiencies of up to 25.40%. The company notes that actual rear-side generation depends on ground reflectivity and installation conditions.
The floating and agrivoltaic modules share the same length and width as the ground-mounted units but carry a thicker 35 mm frame. They also weigh 33.5 kg and provide maximum front-side output of 650 W at efficiencies reaching 23.25%. Under bifacial nominal power irradiance conditions, this series delivers 705 W to 717 W, and the highest-rated model reaches a bifacial-equivalent efficiency of 25.65%.
Both lines feature dual-glass construction with 2.0 mm heat-strengthened glass on the front and rear, an anodized aluminum alloy frame, and an IP68-rated junction box with three bypass diodes. The modules are designed for a maximum system voltage of 1,500 V and operating temperatures from -40 C to 85 C.
According to the manufacturer, the ground-mounted modules carry a maximum power temperature coefficient of -0.34% per degree Celsius, compared with -0.29% per degree Celsius for the floating and agrivoltaic variants. The ground-mounted series is rated for mechanical test loads of 5,400 Pa on the front and 2,400 Pa on the rear, while the floating and agrivoltaic modules carry a 5,400 Pa test-load rating on both sides.
Shinsung E&G offers a 12-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty across both series. The company guarantees at least 99% of initial power output after the first year and 87.4% after 30 years, with maximum annual degradation of 0.4%.
In August, the company opened a new 350 MW solar module production line at its Gimje factory in South Korea, lifting the facility’s total capacity to 600 MW. Shinsung E&G said the line would produce n-type modules for projects in the Saemangeum development region, including an 80 MW ground-mounted installation, a further 74 MW project and a 300 MW floating solar facility.
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