Solar Now

Many homeowners are going solar to save money, to go “off the grid,” or to make a positive impact on the environment. No matter the reason, installing a solar system is a big purchase with many aspects to consider.
Be cautious when evaluating installation offers, as scammers might use misleading sales tactics to trick homeowners out of money and personal information.
You might be contacted by someone claiming to represent a solar company through email, phone, social media or even in person. They promote a special deal, offering to install solar panels at little or no cost.
In reality, those offers often involve financing that is not clearly explained. What sounds like a free or low-cost installation may actually be a long term loan with monthly payments. Some offers may also require credit checks or quick contract approvals, which can be a sign to slow down and review the details carefully.
One Ohio consumer reported they were told they could get solar panels at no cost. After asking more questions, they learned they had actually been approved for a $52,000 loan with monthly payments. The consumer said the offer was misrepresented and the financing details were not clearly explained.
● Ask for referrals and research local solar installers. Ask friends and family members who already went solar for referrals. Search online for local solar installers and research each company carefully. Read customer reviews and check out the company’s business rating at BBB.org. As you learn more about each installer, pay attention to the cost of installation, the equipment they use, the quality of their work and how many years of experience they have with solar systems.
● Get competing bids. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, get estimates from at least three installers. Make sure each estimate details the same kind of systems and installation so as to better compare.
● Ask plenty of questions and consider the answers. Ask questions about any aspect of a contract or proposal you don’t understand. If the company gets upset about your questions, refuses to answer them or is vague with their answers, consider it a red flag.
For more information: Need help with your home improvement project? Visit our Home Improvement HQ or our Roofing HQ.
For BBB information: Visit BBB.org/canton or call 330-454-9401 to look up a business, file a complaint, write a customer review, read tips, find our events, follow us on social media and more!

source

By the People, for the People
News
Plaque reveal mishap highlights tension between symbolic action and practical climate solutions.
Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:50pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
During a visit to Oxford PV, a solar technology company, King Charles experienced an awkward moment when the silk sheet covering a commemorative plaque toppled over during the unveiling ceremony. While a minor incident, the moment highlighted the juxtaposition between ceremonial gestures and the real-world challenges of scaling up renewable energy solutions.
The king’s visit to Oxford PV underscores the broader narrative around renewable energy technologies being at a crossroads between breakthrough science and mass adoption. The royal endorsement can help accelerate interest and investment beyond policy circles, but the real story is about scaling manufacturing, supply chains, and cost curves as much as clever science.
What happened was a simple plaque unveiling that went off-script as the silk sheet betrayed its royal expectations and toppled. The human reaction around it – the quick recovery, the shared laughter, the sense that even a king is subject to the friction of real-world moments – humanized a figure whose occasional aloofness can feel baked into the institution. The incident highlighted how such minor mishaps can actually strengthen public trust when handled with composure and humor.
The reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, who was visiting the solar technology company Oxford PV.
A solar technology company that is working on developing more efficient and cost-effective solar panels, including using perovskite materials to boost performance.
“The technology is so vitally needed and I’m full of admiration for your perseverance.”
— King Charles
The king’s visit highlighted the importance of scaling up renewable energy solutions beyond the lab and into widespread deployment. Oxford PV will continue working to commercialize its perovskite-based solar technology and drive down costs to compete with traditional energy sources.
This small royal moment offers a revealing snapshot of how elite attention can be repurposed to boost practical optimism around clean energy. The awkward gaffe becomes a teachable moment: leadership, when paired with genuine progress on scalable solutions, can humanize the climate project and mobilize broader support.
Apr. 12, 2026
Apr. 14, 2026
Apr. 14, 2026
We keep track of fun holidays and special moments on the cultural calendar — giving you exciting activities, deals, local events, brand promotions, and other exciting ways to celebrate.

source

Personalise the news and
stay in the know
Emergency
Backstory
Newsletters
中文新闻
BERITA BAHASA INDONESIA
TOK PISIN
Find any issues using dark mode? Please let us know
Topic:Solar Energy
The rise of solar power shows no sign of slowing down, with the International Energy Agency predicting it will overtake coal as the world's biggest source of electricity next year. Behind its success is a little-known Australian inventor.
On a crisp, sunny morning overlooking the beachfront at Bronte, in Sydney, a smartly dressed man strolls along the pavement.
The glorious winter weather has brought out a crowd as he navigates the bustling footpath.
He has to step between surfers carrying boards, mums pushing prams and any number of other passers-by.
His kindly bearing draws smiles and acknowledgements, which are returned in kind.
But seemingly nobody recognises him.
"I'm Martin Green from the University of New South Wales in Sydney," he tells the ABC in an interview at his home nearby.
"And I've been researching on solar cells for over 50 years and had a bit of success in developing new technology and having it commercialised."
Others regard Green as the godfather of modern solar power.
The man behind the technology that's in nine out of every ten solar panels around the world today.
To understand the explosion in the adoption of solar one can look no further than the basic economic principle of supply and demand.
Since the late 1970s the cost of solar has fallen roughly 400 times.
Fierce competition between Chinese manufacturers has led to an oversupply, causing prices to plummet.
Which in turn has seen installations of the green technology outstrip expectations at every turn.
Australia's former chief scientist — and top energy adviser — Alan Finkel says none of that would be possible without Martin Green, who, arguably, has done more to advance solar research than anyone else.
Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull describes Green as "really one of the handful of people that ultimately made the transition" towards renewable energy possible.
And Zhengrong Shi, a protégé of Green's who was the world's first solar billionaire, says the global solar industry would not be what it is today without Green's contribution.
So, how is it that Green can enjoy virtual anonymity in his own country?
In his own, adopted home town, no less?
Turnbull says it's no coincidence Green has largely escaped the limelight.
"Well, look, he is by nature a little bit shy," the former PM says.
Another with a clue is Renate Egan, a professor at UNSW who runs the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics.
To understand Green, Egan says it is necessary to understand that he is, first and foremost, a scientist.
"Martin Green started in 1974 to do research into solar energy in Australia, when the concept that we would be powering our homes from solar was just basically a dream," Egan explains.
"Martin was from Brisbane, he was a child of the sun and the Sunshine Coast.
"It was the same thing that attracted me into solar.
"And that was to do something in the sciences where it made sense in Australia and where I could see a net positive from the research that was being done."
At the time, solar research was in its infancy.
Green might have been chosen to lead a new team investigating the field, but resources were scarce, as were expectations.
Egan says the first of the big oil shocks — in which Arab petrostates cut supply to the US and its Western allies in 1973 — had given the first impetus to solar research.
But as the shock eventually wore off, she says dependence on — and investment in — oil returned with gusto.
Conversely, she says interest in solar power as an alternative source of energy sharply fell away.
There was one exception, however.
"What they found was there was one place where you couldn't rely on oil, and that was in space," she says.
"So space solar has had continuous amounts of research for a long time."
Indeed, Green notes that space had been a proving ground for solar power in ways that defied expectations.
"Actually, the fourth satellite to go up worldwide, and the second US one, had some solar cells on it," Green explains.
"This is in 1958.
"And they worked really well.
"In fact, they worked too well in that they didn't put an off button on the satellite, and the solar cells kept powering the satellite, sending out radio signals for the next six or seven years, blocking up the airway."
For all the practical success of these early photovoltaic cells, fundamental obstacles remained.
Green says the technology was simply too expensive to produce competitively.
In the titanic world of energy, he says it was barely at the margins.
"Probably quite rightfully, you know, the cells were so incredibly expensive, and the numbers being made for these satellites were so puny," he says.
"And this was the era when nuclear was very highly regarded.
"One of the nuclear scientists or administrators of that era is on record as saying the impact of solar would be like a flea on an elephant's back in any energy future.
"So the prospects weren't regarded too highly."
In a development with eerie echoes to the present, Green says it was the Iranian Revolution in the late 1970s — and the resulting oil crisis — that gave renewed vigour to solar research.
Governments across the developed world poured money into research programs.
Then US president Jimmy Carter famously installed solar panels on the White House.
Meanwhile, Green and his colleagues were making breakthroughs that would ultimately have profound consequences for the cost problem bedevilling the technology.
These breakthroughs centred on a key theory Green had been mulling for years.
Boiled down, the theory amounted to adding an extra layer to solar cells to trap more of the escaping light and electrons, making them far more efficient.
"The biggest eureka moment was a couple of years into the project," Green says.
Finkel, who has spent much of his distinguished career communicating science to the layman, says Green and his collaborators have achieved many milestones in solar research.
But his development of passivated emitter and rear cell technology — otherwise known as PERC — was perhaps his crowning achievement.
It is a technology that is used in about 90 per cent of solar panels installed worldwide today.
"It was one of many breakthroughs, but it's a very significant one for cost and efficiency," Finkel says.
The breakthrough catapulted UNSW — and Green — to the cutting edge of solar research.
From "just battling to keep the team growing" and using "very rudimentary equipment", the school carved out a reputation for excellence.
Such was their momentum, they even streaked ahead of NASA — a patron and pioneer of solar development — before going on to claim the world record for cell efficiency.
As they pushed the efficiency of solar cells ever higher — from 16.5 per cent to as much as 26 per cent — the record stayed in their hands for more than three decades.
More importantly, perhaps, the centre's burgeoning reputation began attracting some of the best and brightest researchers in the world.
Among them was a young student named Zhengrong Shi, who capitalised on reforms to open up China to the world in the 1980s by moving to Australia to study.
"At the time, my intention was actually quite simple," Shi says.
"Just do my PhD and later on maybe get a tertiary position or professorship in the university as an academic. It was very simple.
"But sometimes you never know in your life. Sometimes just opportunity pops up. If you are there and ready, you can grab them."
Shi did more than grab his opportunities.
With the lessons he learned at UNSW, Shi moved back to China in 2002 with "$US6 million in his kitty" according to Green.
From there, he set up the country's first commercial solar manufacturing line.
"I sometimes slept on the desk because I had to deal with Europe and the US at different times," Shi recalls.
"I had to build a factory. I went to Europe and Japan to look for all the equipment. Because I designed the process myself, I had to look for the equipment. So that's what I did."
Shi's venture was called Suntech and it became an enormous success, tapping into rapidly growing demand for solar power fuelled by subsidies in rich countries such as Germany.
Green says the measure of Shi's success came when Wall Street bankers started throwing money at his business.
"Zhengrong's became the first private Chinese based company to list on the US on the New York Stock Exchange in 2005," Green explains.
"And he listed and raised $400 million by listing.
"Only part of his company was up for offer … he still held the majority of the company. So he became, overnight, the first solar billionaire on that listing."
According to Green, the stunning success of Suntech triggered an "avalanche" of other listings by Chinese solar manufacturers eager to expand and grab a share of a rapidly growing market.
He says more than $7 billion was injected into 10 Chinese solar companies which listed in America around that time, pumping up the industry and super charging growth.
As is with way with such breakneck growth, however, he says supply quickly started to exceed demand as Chinese firms competed fiercely for business.
"The competition between these companies, these cashed up companies, the only way to sell what they were making was to drop the price," Green says.
"So that's what they did.
"And it caused a rapid price reduction. It dropped by a factor of four over four years or something like that."
The cut-throat competition was devastating for many of the fledgling solar companies, including Suntech, which went bankrupt in 2013.
Crucially, however, it entrenched prices at levels that had once been unimaginably low.
"They've driven the price down in manufacturing by a factor of 100," says Egan from UNSW.
Egan says the secret to the stunning falls in the cost of manufacturing solar lies in its simplicity.
"The silicon technology is really quite simple, and it's infinitely scalable," she says.
"Once you've got it right, you can just perfect it by doing it over and over and over again.
"And what's also happened in the last 20 years is automation of the processes.
"So the automation of the processes in China, there's basically very little human interaction in the manufacturing processes in China now."
Turnbull, Australia's prime minister between 2015 and 2018, agrees.
"The remarkable thing about solar photovoltaics is that a solar panel is the same panel regardless of where it is," Turnbull says.
"Whether it's one panel sitting on somebody's caravan or their hut somewhere and just being there to charge their phone perhaps or run a light bulb, or whether it's one of a million or 10 million solar panels in some vast industrial solar farm."
He says those lamenting solar manufacturing a lost opportunity for Australia ignore the reality.
Australia, he says, could never have competed with China in developing an industry that requires such deep pockets — and such manufacturing muscle — to establish.
"It's difficult to think of any mass commodity product like solar PV where it is going to make sense to be manufacturing in Australia," he says.
"The idea that the global solar supply could be built out of a couple of factories in Australia — that was never going to happen."
Imbued with so many of the lessons learned by Green, his collaborators and his pupils, the Chinese solar industry now sits astride a global market worth hundreds of billions of dollars a year.
As Finkel notes, when people refer to extraordinary growth in the uptake of solar around the world, they are not exaggerating.
The amount of solar installed has been doubling roughly every three years, becoming 10 times what it was in a decade.
Satellite imagery reveals the staggering rise of solar farms around the world in recent years.
Last year, about 650 gigawatts of solar was installed worldwide — a figure more than 10 times' the size of Australia's main electricity grid.
"The number of solar panels is just exploding," Finkel says.
"We are looking, literally, globally at exponential growth of the manufacturing and deployment of solar panels."
Analysis from energy think tank Ember suggests solar contributed 6.9 per cent of global electricity supply in 2024, compared with practically nothing 20 years ago.
UNSW's Egan says for all these gains, its share of supply will need to rise much further if the world is to have any chance of meeting emissions reduction goals.
"We need that to get to around 50 per cent by 2050," Egan says.
"We need almost tenfold growth.
"So there's still a lot of work to do to get that much extra solar produced sustainably and integrated."
Given the technology's low cost — the International Energy Agency says it's the cheapest source of power in history — Shi doesn't doubt this will happen.
The man once dubbed the "Sun King" says solar power is not without its limitations — the most obvious one being it only generates when the sun is shining.
But he argues its extremely low cost — and the rapid development of technologies that will complement it such as batteries — make solar a compelling choice.
"You look at the demand for electricity globally with artificial intelligence and data centres," Shi says.
"You look at the US, the natural gas turbine, you have to wait five years to get the equipment.
"They talk about nuclear, but that will take maybe 10 plus years to develop.
"What can be done now is solar. It's so fast and cheap."
It's a view echoed by Turnbull, who says the rise and rise of solar is nothing short of a "revolution".
"It's remarkable.
That such a phenomenon should have such an Australian story behind it is remarkable, says Turnbull.
It should be, he says, a celebrated story nationally.
But he says Green is far too modest to demand the limelight.
"Well, I don't think Martin Green's work is recognised enough by the general public, but this is not to say he is hard done by," he says.
"Martin is laden with honours of every type."
Finkel goes one step further.
The former chief scientist knows Green well after they both served together on a board advising Mukesh Ambani, Asia's richest man, on the energy transition.
He says Green could have sought fortune — and recognition — beyond most people's wildest dreams.
Instead, Finkel says Green consciously took a path to further solar research in the public interest.
"I think that Martin, you could say, is one of our best kept secrets," Finkel says.
"Part of the reason… is he chose to stay with the academic and educational training route rather than the commercial route.
"He didn't chase patents. He promoted publications and sharing of information.
As he sits at his Bronte home, which, of course, has solar panels on its roof, Green is optimistic about the changes he was so instrumental in unleashing.
The septuagenarian notes the solar manufacturing in China capacity is "well over one terawatt" these days.
By comparison, he says a large coal-fired power station has a capacity of one gigawatt.
"So that's 1,000 large coal-fired power stations a year is what the Chinese industry is capable of manufacturing now," Green says.
"And that number is growing very rapidly."
It's a scale that's hard to comprehend, even for the man whose life's work has been dedicated to it.
"People aren't used to things changing as quickly as they've changed in the solar industry or with the speed that the industry has developed from a small industry to one that could now very rapidly provide all the energy that the world needs," he says.
"20 years ago, even I would not have believed them.
"With a reputation for being overly optimistic, I've proved to be overly conservative in my prediction of what the future… of the industry might look like."
Bronte
China
Globalisation – Society
Inventions
Kensington
Manufacturing
Renewable Energy
Solar Energy
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
LIVE
LIVE
Analysis by Alan Kohler
Topic:World Politics
LIVE
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
Analysis by Alan Kohler
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
LIVE
LIVE
Analysis by Alan Kohler
Topic:World Politics
Topic:Athletics
Topic:Cyclones
Topic:Churches
Topic:Immigration
Your home of Australian stories, conversations and events that shape our nation.
This service may include material from Agence France-Presse (AFP), APTN, Reuters, AAP, CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced.
We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work.
Sign up to get the latest on your favourite topics from the ABC

source

A new UNSW study shows that laser-enhanced contact optimisation can boost industrial TOPCon solar cell efficiency by improving contact properties and reducing recombination losses. By combining optimised firing conditions with LECO “repair” of contacts, the approach balances recombination and resistance, offering a practical path for conventional TOPCon cells to compete with PV technologies offering higher efficiencies.
Image: UNSW
A new study by researchers from University of New South Wales (UNSW) and Chinese solar cell specialist Laplace suggests that laser-enhanced contact optimisation (LECO) could unlock further efficiency gains in industrial TOPCon solar cells, potentially pushing performance past 26% through improved contact engineering.
The LECO process consists of using a highly intense laser pulse on the front side of the solar cell at a constant reverse voltage of more than 10 V, with the resulting current flow of several amperes considerably reducing the contact resistivity between semiconductor and metal electrode.
The researchers combined numerical simulation and process modeling to better understand how LECO reduces recombination losses at the metal-emitter interface, which is considered a long-standing bottleneck for high-efficiency n-type TOPCon devices.
“Our work provides a detailed, physics-based understanding of how LECO improves contact passivation and reduces recombination losses in industrial TOPCon solar cells,” corresponding author Bram Hoex told pv magazine.
“It also provides a clear physical explanation for the performance gains observed with LECO in industrial applications.”
“It highlights that contact geometry, beyond just materials or firing conditions, is a critical lever for optimizing next-generation TOPCon cells. Furthermore, it offers practical guidance on how to balance recombination and resistive losses through coordinated process and design optimisation. Ultimately, it establishes a viable pathway for conventional TOPCon cells to narrow the performance gap with more advanced architectures.”
The researchers found that lowering the peak firing temperature during metallisation plays a key role in reducing recombination. Rather than altering the boron doping profile, which remains largely unchanged during firing, lower temperatures lead to non-uniform, partial metal contacts.
This partial contact formation reduces the effective recombination current density, as less of the emitter surface is in direct contact with metal.
“The suppression mechanism is not driven by dopant redistribution, but by changes in contact morphology,” the authors of the study explained.
While partial contacts help reduce recombination, they typically increase contact resistance, which is a trade-off that can hurt overall performance. This is where LECO comes in. The laser-based process locally improves poorly formed contacts, enabling low-resistance silver–silicon interfaces without requiring high-temperature firing.
According to the research team, LECO effectively “repairs” underfired regions while preserving the benefits of reduced recombination.
Using a simulated industrial TOPCon cell with a baseline efficiency of 25.5%, the team demonstrated that combining optimizsed firing conditions to reduce contact fraction and selective emitter doping to lower intrinsic recombination could increase efficiency to 26.07%.
A key parameter is the partial metal contact ratio, which is the fraction of a solar cell’s emitter surface that is actually in direct physical contact with the metal electrode, rather than being separated by a passivating layer. In the baseline device, this value was around 37%. The study suggests it could be reduced to nearly 1% with optimised processing, without significantly increasing contact resistivity.
The authors concluded that LECO-enabled optimisation provides “a viable path” to extend the lifetime of mainstream TOPCon technology in the rapidly evolving solar market and compete with heterojunction (HJT) and back-contact (BC) PV technologies.
This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
More articles from Emiliano Bellini
Please be mindful of our community standards.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.


Δ
By submitting this form you agree to pv magazine using your data for the purposes of publishing your comment.
Your personal data will only be disclosed or otherwise transmitted to third parties for the purposes of spam filtering or if this is necessary for technical maintenance of the website. Any other transfer to third parties will not take place unless this is justified on the basis of applicable data protection regulations or if pv magazine is legally obliged to do so.
You may revoke this consent at any time with effect for the future, in which case your personal data will be deleted immediately. Otherwise, your data will be deleted if pv magazine has processed your request or the purpose of data storage is fulfilled.
Further information on data privacy can be found in our Data Protection Policy.
By subscribing to our newsletter you’ll be eligible for a 10% discount on magazine subscriptions!
Δ
Legal Notice Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy © pv magazine 2026
pv magazine Australia offers bi-weekly updates of the latest photovoltaics news.
We also offer comprehensive global coverage of the most important solar markets worldwide. Select one or more editions for targeted, up to date information delivered straight to your inbox.
Δ
This website uses cookies to anonymously count visitor numbers. To find out more, please see our Data Protection Policy. ×
The cookie settings on this website are set to “allow cookies” to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click “Accept” below then you are consenting to this.
Close

source

© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
With the window method, anyone experiencing an English ivy invasion now has a far easier and far more rewarding way to keep their trees safe.
Photo Credit: TikTok
This method tackles a common invasive plant by going straight to the source of the problem.
TikTok creator Abby (@yarrowcity) used her platform to spread the word about her preferred way to kill off English ivy.
She starts by explaining how many trees around the area of her home had been overtaken by the ivy, climbing up the trunks and out into the branches.
Such an act often causes a loss of nutrients for the tree itself, as the ivy is able to photosynthesize and block off the tree’s leaf access to the same resources.
Abby then points out that her most effective method of stopping invasive ivy growth is what she calls the “window method.”
“What you need to do is cut a window so that … everything that the roots are gathering and the hydration are not getting to all the other parts of the English ivy,” she says.
She emphasizes that by chopping a window into the rootstock of the ivy plant, essentially taking out a segment altogether, it can no longer properly supply the rest of its vines higher up on the tree.
That way, instead of spending countless hours of tedious work pulling down ivy, a simple clip at the source will slowly kill the rest of the plant like a domino effect.
English ivy is a commonly invasive plant that can often wreak havoc on neighborhoods right under people’s noses.
Being aware of the consequences of ivy spread is crucial to maintaining a healthy yard, especially with regard to proper tree growth.
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
Starting at $50
Starting at $99
Starting at $60
Starting at $80
Which of these savings plans for rooftop solar panels would be most appealing for you?
Save $1,000 this year 💸
Save less this year but $20k in 10 years 💰
Save less in 10 years but $80k in 20 years 🤑
Couldn’t pay me to go solar 😒
Click your choice to see results and earn rewards to spend on home upgrades.

With the window method, anyone experiencing an English ivy invasion now has a far easier and far more rewarding way to keep their trees safe.
Additionally, choosing native plants to the area can grow the local ecosystem by contributing to the natural environmental cycle, without the interference of invasive species.
Commenters were pleased with the helpful guide Abby gave in her video, with one shocked at the idea that the ivy could be so detrimental: “I had no idea English ivy [was] such a nuisance!”
Another added that “this is good work,” and they “like the window method,” to which Abby responded with a proud quip about the tip being “effective mechanical control.”
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.

source

Please enable JavaScript to proceed.

source

Almost everyone positions home solar panel systems with home batteries as backup grid power insurance – and while that can be vitally important in a whole host of “what if” scenarios, keeping the lights on is the LEAST interesting thing your home battery can do.
Home backup battery. It’s written right there on the tin, after all – but while keeping the lights on, the water running, and the insulin between 36 and 46° F can be critically important, more and more home solar + battery customers are looking at their systems as a tool to help them understand how they use and consume energy.
And that little bit of understanding can lead to some big savings.
When we talk about the cost of electricity, we often think of it in terms of price per kWh (example: $0.20/kWh). As more and more people move towards time-of-use rates, however, they’re starting to see huge swings in pricing, with the same kWh costing $0.50 one day, and close to zero – or even dipping into the negative – on another.
In that scenario, a home battery becomes less about planning for when the power goes out, and more about planning for when the power gets expensive.
A home battery turns your electricity buy into a Costco run, allowing you to stock on on electrons when the utility is practically giving them away, storing them in your garage freezer battery, and using them when the utility decides to price them higher. The end result isn’t just lower utility bills, it’s increased predictability in your monthly budget, and more control over an expense that most people consider out of their control.
In practice, someone with a 20 kWh home battery system in Illinois’ ComEd territory (where I live), electricity that typically costs about $0.10/kWh has spiked to more than $2/kWh during extreme weather events, with a theoretical ceiling of $3.70/kWh. That means the 20 kWh sitting in you battery that’s worth about $2 on a normal day can be worth as much as or as much as $40, $50, or even $70 when prices surge.
When matched up with a home solar panel system that generates electricity and an EV that runs on electric fuel, a home battery system starts to look a lot like your own private fuel supply, allowing you to top off your tank with cheap gas electrons you made yourself.
“This is Energy Dominance,” writes GM Energy’s Jim Reilly, describing his own home’s high-end energy setup. “I own the refinery and the delivery system. While the world reacts to the price at the pump, my costs are a flat line.”
What really sets a home solar panel system apart from most other big-ticket purchases is that it can behave a lot like an investment, with the average homeowner breaking even on their installation in about 10 years – with another 10-15 years’ worth of energy production still to go.
Those returns don’t just show up on your utility bill, either. A recent study tracking the sales of more than 5,000 single-family home deals showed that homes with solar panels installed sold for 5-10% more than comparable homes without solar. For those of you doing the math at home, “(that’s) an eye-popping $39,500 to $79,000 boost.”
In other words, there’s a tipping point where your home energy system stops costing you money, and starts making you money. Add in decades of avoided electricity bills and what’s sure to be a future of ever-rising energy costs, and a comprehensive home energy solution stops looking like a simple upgrade and starts looking like that rare kind of asset that saves you money now, and pays you again when you exit.
The best part? You can add a new battery to a home with an existing solar panel system, or a home without solar (with a little work). Ask your installer for more about how to make the tech work for you, and be sure to read Uncle Jojo’s disclaimer, below.
Financing a new energy project can be complicated and confusing, but talking to a qualified professional installer can help you understand what’s being offered and how a given deal is being structured, and help you get a better handle on all the associated costs.
One you have that, take the information to an accountant or financial expert you trust to make sure you understand what’s real, what’s marketing, and what actually makes sense for you. And, if there’s and money on the table in the form of local utility incentives or tax credits, make sure you don’t leave it there.
Unless, you know, you don’t actually care about money.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
Original content from Electrek.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast.
I’ve been in and around the auto industry for over thirty years, and have written for a number of well-known outlets like CleanTechnica, Popular Mechanics, the Truth About Cars, and more. You can catch me at Electrek Daily’s Quick Charge, The Heavy Equipment Podcast, or chasing my kids around Oak Park, IL
Find a reliable home solar and battery installer and save 20-30% compared to going it alone.
Qmerit makes electrification easy — connecting you with trusted pros who get it done right.

source

© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
“A Palmetto Energy Plan lets you go solar by swapping the upfront cost of buying and installing solar panels for predictable monthly payments.”
Photo Credit: Palmetto
Although investing in solar is one of the best ways to reduce your utility bills amidst rising energy costs, the upfront investment can be a sticking point for some homeowners looking to upgrade. 
For this reason, solar leasing programs are becoming a more popular option across the country, especially after the rollback of lucrative tax credits for solar installations. A solar lease is similar to a car lease or even a Netflix subscription. 
When a homeowner or renter leases panels, they can benefit from lower energy bills and clean solar power while avoiding upfront installation costs by paying a monthly fee instead. 
Palmetto is one company changing how homeowners get solar through its solar leasing program, LightReach. If you sign up for LightReach, Palmetto owns the panels, but you get the power that they generate. 
“A Palmetto Energy Plan lets you go solar by swapping the upfront cost of buying and installing solar panels for predictable monthly payments,” Palmetto’s website noted. “Palmetto owns, monitors, and maintains the system, and you get all the electricity.”
In turn, you pay a monthly fee while Palmetto covers the solar mapping, system design, permitting, installation, and even maintenance for $0 down. Essentially, you’re avoiding the large upfront payment in favor of dispersed monthly charges. 
Plus, Palmetto even offers verification testing to ensure homeowners can trust their new solar system will generate as expected. 
Although homeowners typically see more returns on their investment by buying solar panels outright, solar leasing offers a model for homeowners concerned about the initial costs. Plus, by ditching harmful fossil fuels for solar power, homeowners can rest easy knowing their lights and appliances are powered by clean, renewable energy.
FROM OUR PARTNER
Whatever your solar budget, Palmetto can help you save.
If you want to buy your own panels, Palmetto’s advisors can help you save up to $10,000 on installation through a network of preferred installers. And if you’d rather get solar savings without upfront costs, Palmetto’s revolutionary LightReach subscription program can deliver — including an exclusive $1,000 cashback offer for TCD readers.
LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it painless to lock in long-term savings of up to 33% off your current power bill. Palmetto covers a 25-year warranty for the panels, which means you’ll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs.
To get started, just book a short meeting with Palmetto’s experts to explore your options and find the solution that’s right for you.
To fully maximize your bill savings with solar, you might want to consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances like heat pumps. Luckily, Palmetto can help you here, too, with its HVAC leasing program. 
In a similar way to LightReach, Palmetto HVAC leases offer super-efficient heating and cooling options on a subscription model. Plans start as low as $99 per month and include 12 years of free maintenance.
Which of these savings plans for rooftop solar panels would be most appealing for you?
Save $1,000 this year 💸
Save less this year but $20k in 10 years 💰
Save less in 10 years but $80k in 20 years 🤑
Couldn’t pay me to go solar 😒
Click your choice to see results and earn rewards to spend on home upgrades.

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.

source

The mayor of Greater Lincolnshire says she is considering launching a judicial review after the government approved plans to build the UK's largest solar farm in the county.
Dame Andrea Jenkyns said she was "deeply disappointed" about the decision to allow Springwell Solar Farm near Navenby to go ahead.
It will cover an area the size of 1,700 football pitches and incorporate a battery storage facility and provide power for 180,000 homes, its developer EDF said.
Announcing the decision on Wednesday, Energy Minister Michael Shanks said the solar farm would help provide "clean homegrown power that we control to protect the British people and bring down bills for good".
Dame Andrea said she had campaigned against other similar developments, adding: "We can't be the dumping ground for the government with the solar farms."
The Reform UK mayor said she had held meetings and taken legal advice, which is "currently being looked at by barristers who are experts in this field".
"They will decide whether they feel we've got a strong case to take this to a judicial review," she said.
"I'm not going to just step aside with this, I'm going to fight right to the end to try to make sure this doesn't happen."
The development was approved by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero following a public inquiry by the Planning Inspectorate.
Local campaigners had raised concerns about the loss of farmland, the impact on the landscape and the safety of the lithium-ion batteries.
Announcing the decision on Wednesday, Energy Minister Michael Shanks said the solar farm would help provide "clean homegrown power that we control to protect the British people and bring down bills for good".
"It is crucial we learn the lessons of the conflict in the Middle East – solar is one of the cheapest forms of power available and is how we get off the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets and secure our own energy independence," he said.
The site is expected to start producing electricity from 2029.
Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.
Download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad or Google Play for Android devices
Government approves UK's largest solar farm
Concern over impact of large-scale solar farm
Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority
After a 17-year wait for his first green jacket, McIlroy has collected a second straight, becoming just the fourth player to win back-to-back at Augusta.
Futures on the major US gauges dropped ahead of the week's open as negotiations for peace in Iran fell apart.
Bednar has facial fractures and a corneal abrasion but is expected to make a full recovery without surgery.
The Brewers are falling in the standings and facing a potential extended absence by one of their best players.
After stints as the manager of the Milwaukee Brewers and Detroit Tigers, Garner led the Houston Astros to their first pennant in 2005.
Starting pitching has not been an issue for the White Sox, but the 6-foot-10 Schultz should be an impactful addition.
Momcilovic was one of the best 3-point shooters in college basketball during the 2025-26 season.
Colman Domingo made his SNL hosting debut Saturday. Here's what happened, from the Melania Epstein cold open to the Artemis II sketch and Anitta's performance.
While geopolitical tensions keep the market on edge, some experts see a rare opening in hammered tech names.
Trump announced a U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after nearly 20 hours of peace talks in Islamabad collapsed over Iran's refusal to abandon its nuclear program. "Iran will never have a nuclear weapon," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

source

Recibe las noticias más leídas de la semana directamente en tu email
Respetamos tu privacidad. Puedes darte de baja en cualquier momento.

The municipality of Junín announced the construction of one of the most important solar parks in the province of Buenos Aires, with an investment close to 20 million dollars.
The project combines private investment, renewable energy generation, and local development, consolidating the district as a leader in the energy transition.
The work is being developed on a plot of 50 hectares and includes the installation of more than 42,000 solar panels.
With an installed capacity of 20 megawatts (MW), the park will be able to supply energy to more than 10,000 homes, becoming one of the most significant photovoltaic ventures in the interior of Buenos Aires.
According to official estimates, the park will avoid the emission of 17,500 tons of carbon dioxide per year, significantly contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases.
This contribution reinforces Junín’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.
The construction will generate between 80 and 120 direct jobs, in addition to boosting sectors related to services, logistics, maintenance, and regional suppliers. In this way, the project impacts not only the energy matrix but also the local economy.
The work will be carried out by Genneia, a leading renewable energy company in Argentina, with experience in wind and solar parks in different provinces.
Their participation guarantees technical and operational support for the development of the project.
Solar energy has become a key tool for:
The province of Buenos Aires combines solar energy with lithium batteries to meet demand outside solar hours. Studies from the Biblioteca Digital UNCUYO indicate that the central region is suitable for the expansion of this energy. Although it faces investment challenges, as warned by SolarPower Argentina, the sector presents a great growth projection.
The Junín solar park represents a milestone in the Buenos Aires energy transition. With environmental, economic, and social benefits, the initiative reinforces the district’s profile as a city prepared for the challenges of sustainability and the democratization of energy access.
Compartí esta nota

Director/Propietario:
Luis Pavesio
Registro DNDA en trámite
Fecha: 12/04/2026
N° de Edición: 4942
2022 © Noticias Ambientales | Todos los derechos reservados.

source

source

A solar farm has been granted a 15-year extension despite concerns it will impact the look of the neighbouring countryside.
The site in Northamptonshire, located on a field to the south of the Eckland Lodge Business Park between Braybrooke and Desborough, was originally granted a 25-year limited lifespan.
Despite concerns about the visual impact, North Northamptonshire Council's planning committee approved the extension.
It means the site will run until 2057, instead of 2042, at which point it will be decommissioned.
The site was first approved in 2015 and became operational two years later.
Eckland Lodge Business Park submitted plans for the extension with conditions that the land be reinstated when the site is decommissioned, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The council's planning committee heard the original time limit was imposed as the operational life of the solar panels was incorrectly thought to have been around 25 years.
The applicant has now said that, with proper maintenance, the site could be operational for 40 years and that decommissioning it any earlier would be "wasteful".
However, Braybrooke Parish Council objected, saying that extending the life of the solar park would be a "material shift from temporary to long-term land use — prolonging a non-agricultural, industrialised visual character".
They also raised concerns that the extension could set an "unintended precedent" that long-term energy infrastructure is acceptable in rural locations.
Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.
Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
Dame Andrea Jenkyns is "deeply disappointed" the government approved Springwell Solar Farm.
The Springwell solar farm in North Kesteven would cover an area the size of 1,700 football pitches.
If approved, the solar panels will generate up to 735 kW of electricity, enough to power hundreds of homes.
The plan for Withington, near Hereford, includes solar panels, a substation and a weather station.
A States vote means the default position on solar farms on agricultural land will be to refuse them.
Copyright 2026 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.
 

source

© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
“When we promulgated the regulations, that fee was based on simple math.”
Photo Credit: iStock
Maryland EV drivers may soon have more public charging options after state officials announced plans to reduce a controversial inspection fee for newly built EV chargers. 
According to a report by Maryland Matters, Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks told public officials that his agency will use money, known as SEIF funds, allocated by the state for clean energy projects to help pay for the charger inspection program. In turn, the fee for charging operators would be lowered from $150 per charger port to $75.
The program was initially supposed to take effect in January, but the Department of Agriculture delayed its launch after local pushback. 
“When we promulgated the regulations, that fee was based on simple math,” Atticks said, per Maryland Matters. “Since then, the equation has changed a little bit, and we have a great partnership with the Maryland Energy Administration.”
In the market for a home EV charger? Qmerit makes it easy to get instant quotes on Level 2 charging stations that can save you hundreds of dollars per year.
To get an instant estimate, just answer a few questions about your garage and electrical panel. Within a few days, Qmerit will contact you with a final proposal from a certified installer, and their expert electricians make the process a breeze from there.
While the expansion of public charging is vital to the widespread adoption of EVs in the U.S., many drivers avoid public stations entirely by opting for at-home charging. By charging at home, EV owners take advantage of electricity rates, which are often far cheaper than public stations. 
Over time, those savings can seriously add up. To find out how much an at-home charger can save you, consider connecting with Qmerit to get free information and installation quotes for Level 2 chargers.  
Despite the reduced fee, some EV advocates are still wary of the inspection program. 
“[This] solves a problem we don’t have, and creates a problem we didn’t have,” Wiley Hodges, a member of the Electric Vehicle Association of Washington, D.C., said, per Maryland Matters.
FROM OUR PARTNER
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area.
To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
Solar panels can save you more than $50k over their 25-year lifespan, and EnergySage can help you save as much as $10k on installation. Which begs the question — isn’t that worth an email or two?
Another EV advocate, Lanny Hartmann, noted that he would prefer that available SEIF funds go towards solar panel installations or the expansion of charging stations rather than an inspection fee. 
Hodges also urged the agency to exempt Level 2 chargers from the charge. Level 2 chargers tend to bring in less income for developers compared to fast chargers, so the $150 per port fee could be a limiting factor for this type of unit. 
Which of these savings plans for rooftop solar panels would be most appealing for you?
Save $1,000 this year 💸
Save less this year but $20k in 10 years 💰
Save less in 10 years but $80k in 20 years 🤑
Couldn’t pay me to go solar 😒
Click your choice to see results and earn rewards to spend on home upgrades.

“The cost of the program is unreasonably high for the operators of essential Level 2 charging infrastructure, likely leading to fewer Level 2 chargers being available to Maryland EV drivers,” Hodges said.
Although this inspection fee could affect Level 2 charger installations for developers in Maryland, upgrading your home charging system can still be a worthwhile investment that helps you avoid the higher costs of public charging. Consider connecting with Qmerit to learn how a Level 2 charger can speed up your at-home charging.
For even more savings, you might want to consider installing solar panels to charge your EV using the energy from the sun. 
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.

source

More from The Sun
INCREDIBLE drone pictures reveal Britain’s biggest operational solar farm spanning 500 football pitches – but locals are not happy.
Staggering video shows the site with sprawling solar panels stretching as far as the eye can see over the countryside near Faversham, Kent.
Please provide a valid email.
Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy
You'll now receive top stories, breaking news, and more, straight to your email.
Cleve Hill Solar Park covers more than 900 acres with 550,000 huge solar panels on it which are more than 9ft off the ground.
The firm says the site can provide enough energy to power 102,000 homes with 373-megawatt capacity.
But this output will be split between Tesco – to power up to 144 supermarkets – and Shell – to charge evs – after a deal struck in 2024.
The power will enter the national grid as normal, but then the equivalent amount will be sucked up by the two giant firms.
Read more News
ALL FALLS DOWN
Wireless Festival CANCELLED as Kanye banned from UK after antisemitism row
ON THE MAP
UK will get new COUNTY in huge change to national maps under fresh plans
And this revelation deepened local fury around the mega project, especially those in the village of Graveney.
Tom King, 69, parish councillor for Graveney with Goodnestone for the past seven years, told The Sun: “There’s a lot of unhappiness in the community.”
Located between Faversham and Whitstable, it was given government planning permission in 2020.
And the “final phase” of the site’s construction is set to be finished by June – with the array first becoming operational last year in 2025.
Chagos U-turn shows PM is finally seeing real world
Economy will continue to drift into danger with Labour's anti-business mindset
Dad of Jamie Lea describes horror as 'loving' Lurcher savaged daughter to death
No Glasto or Wireless but still lots of festival action – our ultimate guide
However, some locals living around the site have told The Sun said the construction has been a nightmare – but they are learning to live with it.
They lamented the loss of the countryside and asking why the solar panels couldn’t have been placed on top of buildings instead.
Planning permission was granted by the government in 2020 because the site is deemed a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).
Locals had fought against the project – but were overulled by the government.
Cleve Hill bosses say the project has provided jobs and £500,000 funding to the area.
And they insisted they are working to preserve natural habitats around the site.
One of the local businesses impacted by the panels is The Sportsman Gastropub which has been run by owner Phil Harris, 66, for over 26 years.
Phil told The Sun: “Why does it have to be here in a field when [Tesco] have got an enormous amount of roof space everywhere.
“They could put roofs over their car parks.”
Lut Stewart, one of the villagers who campaigned against the solar park, said: “The constant thud, thud of piledriving from early in the morning and into the evening, drove us all mad.
“It was so intrusive that even when it stopped we felt we could hear it still, it had become so much of our world.”
During the construction, she claimed lorries trundled through the village daily on weekdays from 7am and 6pm and on Saturdays from 7am to 1pm.
With around 22 construction vehicles passing through the rural roads per day, the verges became destroyed and littered with mud and potholes.
Lut says residents still feel powerless and claims that local wildlife and habitats have been damaged.
The panels have been built just outside the childhood home of former borough councillor William Boggia, 97.
He said: “I learned as a boy about the value of farmland and how one should be a steward of it rather than own it.
“I’m very much for solar energy, we’ve got solar panels on the roof as it happens, but stuff in the right place,” he added.
The site is surrounded on three sides by areas of scientific interest, making locals even more worried about the park.
Whilst the villages of Graveney, Goodnestone and Hernhill were given community benefits of £500,000 by the developers of the solar park, some residents don’t believe it’s enough.
Councillor King doesn’t think the handout is equal to the size of the project.
He said: “There’s a lot of unhappiness in the community about the money we got.
“It just doesn’t equate to the amount of disruption the village.”
Christopher McGowan, 67, said: “I’ve kind of let it go now, because it is what it is.
“It’s there and there’s nothing anybody can do. It’s just a shame.”
“It’s solar panels, it’s clean energy – yes but where are you putting it? Put it on the roofs of decommissioned industrial sites.
“There’s loads of places rather than covering up the countryside.
“And it keeps happening.”
He added: “We need solar energy, clean energy but I think just stop chucking it anywhere around the countryside.”
A married couple in Graveney, who asked not to be named, used to walk a country path along the shore of the Themes where the solar park is now situated.
The husband said: “It’s a carbuncle.”
He added: “They said it could supply 100,000 homes with electricity.
“Then we found out Tesco and Shell are buying the electric from it.”
A spokesman for Cleve Hill Solar Park said: ““The UK has an ambitious target of delivering 100% clean power by 2030.
“Large-scale projects like the Cleve Hill Solar Park are critical to meeting this goal, and play an important role in providing affordable, clean, homegrown energy.
“Throughout the construction of the Cleve Hill Solar Park we have prioritised community engagement and worked closely with residents to mitigate the impacts where possible, including a construction traffic management plan.
“Cleve Hill has also established a community benefit fund to support local initiatives, administered by GrantScape.
RECOMMENDED STORIES
“Cleve Hill has worked closely with ecologists and specialist agencies to support a biodiversity program that seeks to deliver a net gain of over 65% biodiversity, including the planting of 50 hectares of new grassland, hedgerows and reedbed habitat.
“Cleve Hill has created hundreds of jobs for local workers in Kent and over its lifetime the project is expected to support over 2,500 direct and indirect jobs and generate more than £114 million in local socio-economic benefits.”
Chagos U-turn shows PM is finally seeing real world
Economy will continue to drift into danger with Labour's anti-business mindset
Dad of Jamie Lea describes horror as 'loving' Lurcher savaged daughter to death
No Glasto or Wireless but still lots of festival action – our ultimate guide
©News Group Newspapers Limited in England No. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. “The Sun”, “Sun”, “Sun Online” are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. This service is provided on News Group Newspapers’ Limited’s Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. View our online Press Pack. For other inquiries, Contact Us. To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO)
Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/

source

An official website of the United States government
Here’s how you know
Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
–These projects are inactive–
The Lightweight Integrated Module Package is a flexible, foldable, and modular solar panel assembly designed for quick and simple installation on flat commercial and industrial roofs without the need for heavy ballast. Photo by SUNY Polytechnic Institute.
The Photovoltaic Manufacturing Initiative (PVMI) invests in manufacturing-focused research projects that strengthen the competitiveness of the photovoltaic (PV) module industry and supply chain in the United States. PVMI also establishes manufacturing development facilities that provide infrastructure for demonstrating, testing, optimizing, and manufacturing new technologies with reduced capital requirements. These awards were announced on April 5, 2011.
PVMI focuses on coordinating teams in industry and academia to generate new solutions for PV manufacturing that reduce the cost of module-scale production. It establishes joint-use facilities that provide PV companies and suppliers access to equipment and services that accelerate development of new PV technologies while making the transition to domestic, commercial-scale production. The partnerships strongly leverage industry, state, and local funds and are expected to grow over time, adapting to market conditions and continuously adding new industrial and academic participants.
PVMI will help the solar power industry overcome technical barriers and reduce costs for PV installations. It will also help the U.S. regain the lead in the global market for solar technologies, providing support for clean energy jobs for years to come.
Location: Stanford, California
The Bay Area PV Consortium (BAPVC) funds industry-relevant research and development to impact high-volume PV manufacturing using a competitive selection process open to all universities. This project, managed by Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley, develops and tests innovative new materials, device structures, and fabrication processes necessary to produce cost-effective PV modules in high volumes. The research advances technologies that bring down manufacturing costs and improve device performance characteristics to help achieve SunShot cost targets. Member companies determine the specific topics for research and development to ensure close alignment with industry and manufacturing needs, then review individual projects as they progress.
Location: Albany, New York
Solar Rochester is creating a first-of-a-kind PV manufacturing development facility (MDF) that will support the growth and maturation of a strong, domestic PV manufacturing industry. This facility will ensure industry participants have access to the cutting-edge manufacturing equipment and production expertise needed to accelerate the transition of innovative technologies from research and development into commercial manufacturing. This project is being completed through an open access environment, which can accelerate the process of moving products from labs into production for universities, colleges, and national laboratories. This includes protecting companies’ intellectual property, enabling them to develop proprietary, innovative technologies while removing barriers to market entry.
The MDF will support silicon-based PV technologies, providing a range of services and equipment, including complete manufacturing lines, access to individual tools, manufacturing experts, secure fabrication space for users’ proprietary tools, and pilot production services in an intellectual property (IP) secure environment. Companies will work in the MDF fabrication space, collaboratively with MDF staff, to achieve the same touch-and-feel development experience as obtained in their own labs.
Location: Albany, New York, and Palm Bay, Florida
Managed by SEMATECH, the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium (PVMC) is coordinating an industry-driven initiative to accelerate the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of next‐generation copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin film PV manufacturing technologies, tools, and materials. PVMC seeks to drive down the cost and risk of bringing CIGS technologies to the marketplace. In partnership with the PV industry, PVMC will develop a PV Technology Roadmap to guide the industry in assessing research and development needs and opportunities for innovation. In addition, PVMC will operate complementary programs to foster new PV technologies and firms, and to develop the U.S. PV workforce.
PVMC with its major partner, the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering at the State University of New York at Albany, is establishing manufacturing development facilities that PV companies and researchers can use for product prototyping, demonstration, and pilot‐scale manufacturing to evaluate and validate CIGS thin film and PV manufacturing technologies. PVMC is also working with the University of Central Florida to develop cost-effective in-line measurement and inspection tools to enable increased PV manufacturing yield for silicon-based technologies.
 
Learn more about SETO’s other funding programs.
Committed to Restoring America’s Energy Dominance.
Follow Us

source

DIHOOL 2-Pole DC Molded Case Circuit Breaker – 300 Amp, 500VDC For Solar Panel PV Systems & Battery Banks  ruhrkanal.news
source

source

Tell us what’s working and what’s missing.
Your feedback helps guide our reporting.
El Paso Matters
📣 We use your feedback to strengthen our reporting. Tell us what’s working and what’s missing. Take our 2026 reader survey.
El Paso Electric customers in Texas will see a mix of changes to their monthly bills starting in May — including a rate increase, new charges tied to the controversial Proposition K political fight and higher costs for some rooftop solar users. That comes after state regulators approved a sweeping update to the utility’s pricing structure earlier this month.
The rate that the Public Utility Commission of Texas approved will increase average residential bills by about $13 a month, according to the utility, going from about $98 to about $111. 
“The rate case reflects investments already made to maintain system reliability and support continued growth across our service territory,” Jacob Reyes, a spokesman for El Paso Electric, said in a statement. 
In the final decision, the state’s utility commissioners trimmed El Paso Electric’s initial request and lowered its requested shareholder profit margin. Still, the PUC approved most of what El Paso Electric requested.
El Paso Electric applied for this rate increase nearly a year and a half ago. The utility has said it needs to collect an additional $85 million from customers annually to pay off $1.55 billion in capital investments it’s made since its last rate hike in 2021 – in addition to its requested profit margin. 
Among the investments are the $217 million Newman 6 natural gas power plant in Northeast El Paso, $560 million in improvements to its distribution system, and $180 million in enhancements to its transmission system. 
El Paso Electric has said that commercial and industrial customers have historically paid higher rates to subsidize rates for residential customers, but the utility will now charge different customer classes more equally. As a result, residential customers are seeing the largest rate increase, while some business customers could see a decrease. 
Monopoly utilities can’t set their own rates. Instead, utilities have to seek approval from state public utility commissions to raise their rates to recover their investments and their authorized profit margin. 
In 2021, the PUC authorized the utility to earn a return on equity of 9.35%. For this rate increase, the utility requested a profit margin of 10.7%, but the PUC approved a return of only 9.4%. 
That decreased profit margin is a big reason the monthly residential rate increase is  $13 and not $23 the utility initially requested. 
El Paso Electric’s approved shareholder profit margin is in line with other utilities. The average profit regulators throughout the U.S. authorized for electric utilities was 9.68% in rate cases decided during the first half of 2025, according to research published by S&P Global. 
PODCAST: How will El Paso Electric power Meta’s $10 billion El Paso data center?
We read every response. Your feedback helps us understand what information is most useful.
One of the major changes for residential customers is a higher fixed monthly fee. That’s because the PUC approved an increase in the residential customer charge — the flat fee customers pay regardless of how much electricity they use — from $9.25 to $13.71 .
That shift means a larger share of electric bills will be unavoidable, even for customers who cut back on energy use. Utilities often seek to implement higher fixed charges because that helps them recover the fixed costs – such as having to maintain poles and wire infrastructure – that stay the same regardless of how much energy customers consume. 
But consumer advocates argue higher flat customer charges reduce incentives to conserve energy and hit low-usage households hardest.
Some large customers such as local public school districts and governmental entities will also see a significant change to their electricity rates.
For years, customers such as the El Paso and Ysleta school districts, El Paso County and other public-sector and large institutional users that consume large amounts of electricity paid a discounted rate.
But in its final order, the Public Utility Commission eliminated that discount and required those customers to pay rates fully aligned with the actual cost of serving them. The decision reflects a broader philosophical shift for El Paso Electric: that each class of customers should pay for the costs they impose on the electric system, rather than relying on some customers to cover costs for others.
RELATED: El Paso Electric filings detail power plant impact behind Meta’s $10 billion data center
Having business customers subsidize households is “not usually good rate-making, because what you do is you put down the pressure on (commercial and industrial) growth, which doesn’t give jobs, which gives you the ability to pay your electric bill,” El Paso Electric CEO Kelly Tomblin said during an April 1 City Council meeting. “So, it’s sort of a spiral.”
For large public entities, the change could flow through to taxpayers who will have to pay for higher operating costs for local schools and governments facing elevated electricity bills. 
The Public Utility Commission also approved major billing changes for customers with rooftop solar panel systems that will result in an increase of monthly bills of around $7.50, according to El Paso Electric.  
In the power company’s Texas service area, over 25,400 customers had rooftop solar panels as of 2024, the most recent year with available data. Those panels made up a combined 141 megawatts of generation capacity distributed on rooftops across the city. By comparison, El Paso Electric’s single largest power plant unit – Newman 6 – has a generating capacity of 228 megawatts. 
El Paso Electric has long argued that rooftop solar panel customers don’t pay their fair share of the utility’s grid maintenance costs, so the utility for years has charged solar customers a $30 minimum bill even if a customer’s panels produced more energy in a month than the customer used. 
Now, the utility will get rid of the minimum bill and replace it with a so-called demand charge for customers with solar panels.  
“As a result of El Paso Electric’s rate case, rooftop solar customers (or DG customers) will now have to pay a monthly ‘demand charge’ fee that will range, on average, from $28.50 to $47.50 for most DG customers,” said Sam Silerio, Texas Program Director for the advocacy organization Solar United Neighbors. 
Silerio said El Paso Electric should conduct a detailed study to look at the benefits rooftop solar customers bring as a decentralized source of electricity generation. And they want the utility to eventually pay customers more for the electricity their panels produce. 
SEE ALSO: El Paso leaders approve city’s first climate action plan. What happens now?
Customers with rooftop solar “contribute many benefits to the electric grid. EPE will tell you that (rooftop solar) customers also bring their own unique costs to the grid,” Silerio said. “EPE needs to show their work and appropriately value the individual El Pasoan’s contributions to the electric grid.”
The city of El Paso intervened in the rate increase case to push back on El Paso Electric’s request. In a statement, the city said it is reviewing the final order. 
Get the in-depth, local reporting El Paso deserves—straight to your inbox. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter today.
The City Attorney’s Office will seek a rehearing in the coming days to continue arguing over certain aspects of the rate increase, although it’s unclear if regulators will allow a rehearing.  
“From the City’s perspective, the case is not fully resolved. We will continue advocating for fair, evidence-based rates and for protections that help reduce impacts on El Paso customers,” spokeswoman Laura Cruz-Acosta said in a statement. “The City’s rehearing will focus on issues that could further reduce customer impacts, including matters related to credits and residential cost allocation.”
There’s another much smaller but controversial item El Paso Electric is seeking to charge to customers as part of its proposed rate increase.
El Paso Electric in 2021 agreed to a settlement with New Mexico environmental groups who were seeking to block construction of the Newman 6 plant, which is located near Chaparral, New Mexico, just south of the Texas-New Mexico state line. 
In exchange for the groups dropping their opposition to the plant’s construction, El Paso Electric made various commitments such as controlling the facility’s air pollution, and the utility also paid $440,000 to the environmental groups, including the Sierra Club and others.
Environmental advocates in turn used a portion of that settlement cash to fund the 2023 campaign for the ballot measure Proposition K, also known as the climate charter. The measure sought to enact a wide range of environmental policies in El Paso, including studying a city takeover of El Paso Electric. But it was soundly rejected by over 81% of voters in the November 2023 election. 
El Paso Electric now will charge customers to recover that settlement cost. In other words, El Paso Electric’s customers in Texas will pay back some of the money that environmental groups used to fund the Proposition K campaign.
“EPE did not agree to forgo recovery of the settlement payments in this base rate case,” El Paso Electric said in filings.
The utility plans to spend $4.4 billion on capital projects over the next several years. That mirrors a nationwide trend as spending across the U.S. utility industry has accelerated rapidly in recent years to renovate aging power grids and meet higher electricity demand – caused by factors such as more widespread refrigerated air conditioning in households and power-hungry large data center developments. 
For El Paso Electric, much of that planned spending will go toward building multiple big solar farms and battery storage arrays over the next couple of years, as well as to upgrade the regional power grid.
We believe everyone in El Paso deserves access to trusted local news, without a paywall. Every story we publish informs, empowers, and uplifts our region.
But producing this kind of journalism takes resources — and without donor support, we can’t continue delivering the critical information our community depends on.
If you value fair, local reporting, join our mission today.
Your contribution makes an impact.
Diego Mendoza-Moyers is a reporter covering energy and the environment. An El Paso native, he has previously covered business for the San Antonio Express-News and Albany Times Union, and reported for the… More by Diego Mendoza-Moyers
Get critical news about El Paso city government, public schools, immigration, and more. Delivered Monday and Thursday mornings.
In early 2019, a trail camera captured a beaver sitting at the Rio Bosque wetlands park at dawn. It wasn’t the first time the park’s managers had seen signs of a beaver at the park — a kind of sanctuary for wildlife in El Paso’s urban landscape — but it’s the first time a beaver made the park it’s home and began developing beaver dams and changing the park’s landscape. El Paso Matters reporter Priscilla Totiyapungprasert joins the podcast to share her experience reporting on El Paso’s celebrity beaver. You can read Priscilla’s reporting at elpasomatters.org.
Want faster access to local news? You can add El Paso Matters to your home screen in just a few taps — like an app, but without a download. Here’s how to do it on Android or iPhone.
Republish This Story

Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license. We ask that you follow some simple guidelines: https://elpasomatters.org/republishing-guidelines/
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license. We ask that you follow some simple guidelines: https://elpasomatters.org/republishing-guidelines/ Do not edit the piece. Please ensure that you attribute the author, provide a link back to the original article and mention that the article was originally published on El Paso Matters.
by Diego Mendoza-Moyers, El Paso Matters
April 12, 2026
Link Copy link

source

source

Personalise the news and
stay in the know
Emergency
Backstory
Newsletters
中文新闻
BERITA BAHASA INDONESIA
TOK PISIN
Find any issues using dark mode? Please let us know
Topic:Solar Energy
The rise of solar power shows no sign of slowing down, with the International Energy Agency predicting it will overtake coal as the world's biggest source of electricity next year. Behind its success is a little-known Australian inventor.
On a crisp, sunny morning overlooking the beachfront at Bronte, in Sydney, a smartly dressed man strolls along the pavement.
The glorious winter weather has brought out a crowd as he navigates the bustling footpath.
He has to step between surfers carrying boards, mums pushing prams and any number of other passers-by.
His kindly bearing draws smiles and acknowledgements, which are returned in kind.
But seemingly nobody recognises him.
"I'm Martin Green from the University of New South Wales in Sydney," he tells the ABC in an interview at his home nearby.
"And I've been researching on solar cells for over 50 years and had a bit of success in developing new technology and having it commercialised."
Others regard Green as the godfather of modern solar power.
The man behind the technology that's in nine out of every ten solar panels around the world today.
To understand the explosion in the adoption of solar one can look no further than the basic economic principle of supply and demand.
Since the late 1970s the cost of solar has fallen roughly 400 times.
Fierce competition between Chinese manufacturers has led to an oversupply, causing prices to plummet.
Which in turn has seen installations of the green technology outstrip expectations at every turn.
Australia's former chief scientist — and top energy adviser — Alan Finkel says none of that would be possible without Martin Green, who, arguably, has done more to advance solar research than anyone else.
Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull describes Green as "really one of the handful of people that ultimately made the transition" towards renewable energy possible.
And Zhengrong Shi, a protégé of Green's who was the world's first solar billionaire, says the global solar industry would not be what it is today without Green's contribution.
So, how is it that Green can enjoy virtual anonymity in his own country?
In his own, adopted home town, no less?
Turnbull says it's no coincidence Green has largely escaped the limelight.
"Well, look, he is by nature a little bit shy," the former PM says.
Another with a clue is Renate Egan, a professor at UNSW who runs the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics.
To understand Green, Egan says it is necessary to understand that he is, first and foremost, a scientist.
"Martin Green started in 1974 to do research into solar energy in Australia, when the concept that we would be powering our homes from solar was just basically a dream," Egan explains.
"Martin was from Brisbane, he was a child of the sun and the Sunshine Coast.
"It was the same thing that attracted me into solar.
"And that was to do something in the sciences where it made sense in Australia and where I could see a net positive from the research that was being done."
At the time, solar research was in its infancy.
Green might have been chosen to lead a new team investigating the field, but resources were scarce, as were expectations.
Egan says the first of the big oil shocks — in which Arab petrostates cut supply to the US and its Western allies in 1973 — had given the first impetus to solar research.
But as the shock eventually wore off, she says dependence on — and investment in — oil returned with gusto.
Conversely, she says interest in solar power as an alternative source of energy sharply fell away.
There was one exception, however.
"What they found was there was one place where you couldn't rely on oil, and that was in space," she says.
"So space solar has had continuous amounts of research for a long time."
Indeed, Green notes that space had been a proving ground for solar power in ways that defied expectations.
"Actually, the fourth satellite to go up worldwide, and the second US one, had some solar cells on it," Green explains.
"This is in 1958.
"And they worked really well.
"In fact, they worked too well in that they didn't put an off button on the satellite, and the solar cells kept powering the satellite, sending out radio signals for the next six or seven years, blocking up the airway."
For all the practical success of these early photovoltaic cells, fundamental obstacles remained.
Green says the technology was simply too expensive to produce competitively.
In the titanic world of energy, he says it was barely at the margins.
"Probably quite rightfully, you know, the cells were so incredibly expensive, and the numbers being made for these satellites were so puny," he says.
"And this was the era when nuclear was very highly regarded.
"One of the nuclear scientists or administrators of that era is on record as saying the impact of solar would be like a flea on an elephant's back in any energy future.
"So the prospects weren't regarded too highly."
In a development with eerie echoes to the present, Green says it was the Iranian Revolution in the late 1970s — and the resulting oil crisis — that gave renewed vigour to solar research.
Governments across the developed world poured money into research programs.
Then US president Jimmy Carter famously installed solar panels on the White House.
Meanwhile, Green and his colleagues were making breakthroughs that would ultimately have profound consequences for the cost problem bedevilling the technology.
These breakthroughs centred on a key theory Green had been mulling for years.
Boiled down, the theory amounted to adding an extra layer to solar cells to trap more of the escaping light and electrons, making them far more efficient.
"The biggest eureka moment was a couple of years into the project," Green says.
Finkel, who has spent much of his distinguished career communicating science to the layman, says Green and his collaborators have achieved many milestones in solar research.
But his development of passivated emitter and rear cell technology — otherwise known as PERC — was perhaps his crowning achievement.
It is a technology that is used in about 90 per cent of solar panels installed worldwide today.
"It was one of many breakthroughs, but it's a very significant one for cost and efficiency," Finkel says.
The breakthrough catapulted UNSW — and Green — to the cutting edge of solar research.
From "just battling to keep the team growing" and using "very rudimentary equipment", the school carved out a reputation for excellence.
Such was their momentum, they even streaked ahead of NASA — a patron and pioneer of solar development — before going on to claim the world record for cell efficiency.
As they pushed the efficiency of solar cells ever higher — from 16.5 per cent to as much as 26 per cent — the record stayed in their hands for more than three decades.
More importantly, perhaps, the centre's burgeoning reputation began attracting some of the best and brightest researchers in the world.
Among them was a young student named Zhengrong Shi, who capitalised on reforms to open up China to the world in the 1980s by moving to Australia to study.
"At the time, my intention was actually quite simple," Shi says.
"Just do my PhD and later on maybe get a tertiary position or professorship in the university as an academic. It was very simple.
"But sometimes you never know in your life. Sometimes just opportunity pops up. If you are there and ready, you can grab them."
Shi did more than grab his opportunities.
With the lessons he learned at UNSW, Shi moved back to China in 2002 with "$US6 million in his kitty" according to Green.
From there, he set up the country's first commercial solar manufacturing line.
"I sometimes slept on the desk because I had to deal with Europe and the US at different times," Shi recalls.
"I had to build a factory. I went to Europe and Japan to look for all the equipment. Because I designed the process myself, I had to look for the equipment. So that's what I did."
Shi's venture was called Suntech and it became an enormous success, tapping into rapidly growing demand for solar power fuelled by subsidies in rich countries such as Germany.
Green says the measure of Shi's success came when Wall Street bankers started throwing money at his business.
"Zhengrong's became the first private Chinese based company to list on the US on the New York Stock Exchange in 2005," Green explains.
"And he listed and raised $400 million by listing.
"Only part of his company was up for offer… he still held the majority of the company. So he became, overnight, the first solar billionaire on that listing."
According to Green, the stunning success of Suntech triggered an "avalanche" of other listings by Chinese solar manufacturers eager to expand and grab a share of a rapidly growing market.
He says more than $7 billion was injected into 10 Chinese solar companies which listed in America around that time, pumping up the industry and super charging growth.
As is with way with such breakneck growth, however, he says supply quickly started to exceed demand as Chinese firms competed fiercely for business.
"The competition between these companies, these cashed up companies, the only way to sell what they were making was to drop the price," Green says.
"So that's what they did.
"And it caused a rapid price reduction. It dropped by a factor of four over four years or something like that."
The cut-throat competition was devastating for many of the fledgling solar companies, including Suntech, which went bankrupt in 2013.
Crucially, however, it entrenched prices at levels that had once been unimaginably low.
"They've driven the price down in manufacturing by a factor of 100," says Egan from UNSW.
Egan says the secret to the stunning falls in the cost of manufacturing solar lies in its simplicity.
"The silicon technology is really quite simple, and it's infinitely scalable," she says.
"Once you've got it right, you can just perfect it by doing it over and over and over again.
"And what's also happened in the last 20 years is automation of the processes.
"So the automation of the processes in China, there's basically very little human interaction in the manufacturing processes in China now."
Turnbull, Australia's prime minister between 2015 and 2018, agrees.
"The remarkable thing about solar photovoltaics is that a solar panel is the same panel regardless of where it is," Turnbull says.
"Whether it's one panel sitting on somebody's caravan or their hut somewhere and just being there to charge their phone perhaps or run a light bulb, or whether it's one of a million or 10 million solar panels in some vast industrial solar farm."
He says those lamenting solar manufacturing a lost opportunity for Australia ignore the reality.
Australia, he says, could never have competed with China in developing an industry that requires such deep pockets — and such manufacturing muscle — to establish.
"It's difficult to think of any mass commodity product like solar PV where it is going to make sense to be manufacturing in Australia," he says.
"The idea that the global solar supply could be built out of a couple of factories in Australia — that was never going to happen."
Imbued with so many of the lessons learned by Green, his collaborators and his pupils, the Chinese solar industry now sits astride a global market worth hundreds of billions of dollars a year.
As Finkel notes, when people refer to extraordinary growth in the uptake of solar around the world, they are not exaggerating.
The amount of solar installed has been doubling roughly ever three years, becoming 10 times what it was in a decade.
Satellite imagery reveals the staggering rise of solar farms around the world in recent years.
Last year, about 650 gigawatts of solar was installed worldwide — a figure more than 10 times' the size of Australia's main electricity grid.
"The number of solar panels is just exploding," Finkel says.
"We are looking, literally, globally at exponential growth of the manufacturing and deployment of solar panels."
Analysis from energy think tank Ember suggests solar contributed 6.9 per cent of global electricity supply in 2024, compared with practically nothing 20 years ago.
UNSW's Egan says for all these gains, its share of supply will need to rise much further if the world is to have any chance of meeting emissions reduction goals.
"We need that to get to around 50 per cent by 2050," Egan says.
"We need almost tenfold growth.
"So there's still a lot of work to do to get that much extra solar produced sustainably and integrated."
Given the technology's low cost — the International Energy Agency says it's the cheapest source of power in history — Shi doesn't doubt this will happen.
The man once dubbed the "Sun King" says solar power is not without its limitations — the most obvious one being it only generates when the sun is shining.
But he argues its extremely low cost — and the rapid development of technologies that will complement it such as batteries — make solar a compelling choice.
"You look at the demand for electricity globally with artificial intelligence and data centres," Shi says.
"You look at the US, the natural gas turbine, you have to wait five years to get the equipment.
"They talk about nuclear, but that will take maybe 10 plus years to develop.
"What can be done now is solar. It's so fast and cheap."
It's a view echoed by Turnbull, who says the rise and rise of solar is nothing short of a "revolution".
"It's remarkable.
That such a phenomenon should have such an Australian story behind it is remarkable, says Turnbull.
It should be, he says, a celebrated story nationally.
But he says Green is far too modest to demand the limelight.
"Well, I don't think Martin Green's work is recognised enough by the general public, but this is not to say he is hard done by," he says.
"Martin is laden with honours of every type."
Finkel goes one step further.
The former chief scientist knows Green well after they both served together on a board advising Mukesh Ambani, Asia's richest man, on the energy transition.
He says Green could have sought fortune — and recognition — beyond most people's wildest dreams.
Instead, Finkel says Green consciously took a path to further solar research in the public interest.
"I think that Martin, you could say, is one of our best kept secrets," Finkel says.
"Part of the reason… is he chose to stay with the academic and educational training route rather than the commercial route.
"He didn't chase patents. He promoted publications and sharing of information.
As he sits at his Bronte home, which, of course, has solar panels on its roof, Green is optimistic about the changes he was so instrumental in unleashing.
The septuagenarian notes the solar manufacturing in China capacity is "well over one terawatt" these days.
By comparison, he says a large coal-fired power station has a capacity of one gigawatt.
"So that's 1,000 large coal-fired power stations a year is what the Chinese industry is capable of manufacturing now," Green says.
"And that number is growing very rapidly."
It's a scale that's hard to comprehend, even for the man whose life's work has been dedicated towards it.
"People aren't used to things changing as quickly as they've changed in the solar industry or with the speed that the industry has developed from a small industry to one that could now very rapidly provide all the energy that the world needs," he says.
"20 years ago, even I would not have believed them.
"With a reputation for being overly optimistic, I've proved to be overly conservative in my prediction of what the future… of the industry might look like."
Bronte
China
Globalisation – Society
Inventions
Kensington
Manufacturing
Renewable Energy
Solar Energy
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
LIVE
Topic:Explainer
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
Topic:Missing Person
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
LIVE
BREAKING
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
LIVE
Topic:Explainer
Topic:Unrest, Conflict and War
Topic:Missing Person
Topic:Mental Health
Topic:Weather Forecasts
Topic:Explainer
Analysis by Luke Pentony
Your home of Australian stories, conversations and events that shape our nation.
This service may include material from Agence France-Presse (AFP), APTN, Reuters, AAP, CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced.
We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work.
Sign up to get the latest on your favourite topics from the ABC

source

JMK Research’s report on India’s fiscal 2026 renewable additions crossed my screen and forced a wider question. If India had just added 44.6 GW of solar in a single fiscal year and reached 150.26 GW of installed solar by March 31, 2026, what did the broader global league table of wind, water, and solar actually look like? India’s totals of 150.26 GW of solar, 56.09 GW of wind, and 51.41 GW of large hydro put it at 257.8 GW of WWS capacity. That is no longer an emerging promise. It is one of the largest clean electricity systems in the world by built capacity.
The comparison is simple enough to be useful. Add up installed wind, hydroelectric, and solar capacity. Call it WWS. It is not a perfect measure. It says nothing on its own about capacity factors, curtailment, storage, transmission strength, demand response, grid stability, or the pace of electrification of transport, buildings, and industry. But it does capture something concrete. It captures what has actually been built. Towers, dams, turbines, panels, substations, and interconnections are not theoretical. Installed capacity is a rough but powerful way to map which countries and regions are physically building the backbone of low-carbon electricity systems.
The first thing the table should make obvious is that China is not merely ahead. It is operating in a different category. Official Chinese reporting for the end of 2025 put wind at about 640 GW and solar at about 1,200 GW. The International Hydropower Association’s latest regional profile put China’s hydro capacity at 435.95 GW. That yields a combined WWS total of roughly 2,276 GW. For context, that is about 6 times the United States and close to 9 times India. Any conversation about the global energy transition that still defaults to the US and Europe as the unquestioned center of gravity is using an old map. China is now the center of gravity in built clean electricity infrastructure.
Europe remains a huge force, and that matters because it shows what long-running policy alignment across multiple countries can achieve. WindEurope reported 304 GW of installed wind across Europe in 2025. The International Hydropower Association reported 262.7 GW of hydro. Solar is harder to pin down with one clean headline number for all of geographic Europe, but IEA PVPS put Europe at roughly 399 GW of solar at the end of 2024, and 2025 additions across the region support a rounded 2025 comparison figure of about 480 GW. That yields a total WWS base of about 1,047 GW. Europe remains enormous by any historical standard. It is still less than half of China’s total.
That total WWS chart tells several stories at once. China towers over everything else. Europe remains a serious clean power complex. The United States is still substantial at about 380 GW, based on roughly 161 GW of wind, 139 GW of solar, and 80 GW of hydro, but it is no longer close to the frontier. India has broken into the top tier. Brazil, at 206 GW, is clearly one of the world’s major renewable power systems rather than a side case. Canada and Spain are more substantial than many casual observers would expect. Pakistan, once the distributed solar boom is counted, becomes much more important than official grid-connected statistics would suggest. The ranking is not just a list of who is biggest. It is a map of where the physical energy transition is actually happening.
India is the trigger for the whole exercise because it changes the mental model. It is one thing to say India is growing fast. It is another to say that India’s single-year solar additions in fiscal 2026 were larger than the entire estimated solar base of many countries. A 44.6 GW annual addition is not a pilot phase. It is industrial scale deployment. India’s wind additions in the same fiscal year were about 6.05 GW, taking cumulative wind to 56.09 GW. The important point is not just speed. It is that a country with 1.464 billion people and a 2025 nominal GDP around $4.51 trillion is building a clean electricity base at a scale that places it in the first rank globally. Large-scale renewable deployment is no longer a rich-country luxury. India has made that clear.
Hydro still matters more than many wind-and-solar-centered narratives admit. Brazil is the best example in this comparison. By early April 2026, Brazil had 68 GW of solar. Its wind fleet was about 34.8 GW. Its hydro fleet remained about 103.2 GW. That yields a WWS base of 206 GW, and more importantly it yields a system with a large legacy balancing asset already in place. Canada is even more hydro-weighted, with about 82.3 GW of hydro compared with 18.4 GW of wind and 6.6 GW of solar. Europe’s 262.7 GW of hydro matters for the same reason. India’s 51.41 GW of large hydro matters too. Countries that already possess large hydro systems are not starting from the same place as solar-heavy systems. They begin the transition with clean dispatchable capacity and balancing value already embedded in the grid.
That makes the United States harder to excuse. The country has continental scale, strong solar resources, world-class wind corridors, large hydro assets, deep capital markets, strong engineering capability, major equipment supply chains, and the world’s largest nominal GDP at $30.6 trillion in the comparison set. Yet it sits at about 380 GW of WWS, with Europe ahead by about 667 GW and China ahead by about 1,896 GW. India, with an economy around one-seventh the size of the US, is already at more than two-thirds of the US total. This is not a question of lacking sunshine, wind, water, money, or technical capability. It is a question of policy coherence, transmission expansion, market design, permitting friction, and political economy. The US is not absent from the transition. It is behind in both absolute and relative terms.
Normalizing by GDP sharpens the picture. On the comparison table, the United States lands at roughly 12 GW of WWS per $1 trillion of GDP. China lands around 110. Brazil comes in around 90. India is around 57. Spain is around 52. Canada is around 47. Türkiye is around 46. Europe is around 37. Australia is around 31. Pakistan, using a broader estimate of total solar capacity rather than only official grid-connected numbers, also lands around 110. That reordered ranking matters because it removes the comfort of saying the US is large and wealthy, and therefore hard to compare using raw totals. Once normalized for economic size, it looks weaker, not stronger. The country is building less WWS infrastructure per unit of GDP than every other major comparator in the table.
Pakistan is worth pausing on because it is both a warning about data quality and a signal of real deployment. Official utility-scale solar and even official grid-connected solar figures understate what has happened there. Analysis from Renewables First, reported by pv magazine and others, suggested Pakistan’s total solar base had reached about 32 GW by mid-2025, with the majority of that in distributed systems that standard official reporting does not fully capture. NEPRA’s official operational plant reports show a much smaller utility-scale number, and even the net-metered figures do not tell the full story. So Pakistan’s position in the table comes with a methodological note. But the broader lesson is more important. In countries where rooftop and behind-the-meter solar are growing quickly, official statistics can lag physical deployment by years. Pakistan is not a statistical rounding error. It is an undercounted solar breakout case.
The land-area-normalized chart is useful, but it has to be read with care. What it shows most clearly is that raw territorial size does not explain renewable buildout. Spain ranks high because it has built a large wind, water, and solar system on a compact land base. China also stands out because it has combined enormous absolute scale with high deployment density across a vast territory. India looks stronger on this measure than many would expect, which reinforces the point that it is not only building a large renewable system in total terms, but is doing so with real geographic intensity. By contrast, Canada and Australia look sparse, but that does not mean they are weak performers in any simple sense. It means their very large land areas dilute the ratio, and much of that land is far from demand centers, transmission, or suitable project locations. However, it makes it clear that they have absolutely no excuses about land use. And as a reminder, a lot of Canada’s WWS is hydroelectric dams that are in very remote areas. The chart is best understood as a measure of deployment density, not of performance. It helps make one point well. If compact countries can build a lot, sprawling countries don’t have any excuses.
The population-normalized chart is one of the more revealing views because it shifts the question from who has built the most in absolute terms to who has built the most relative to the number of people their electricity system has to serve. On that basis, Canada, Australia, and Spain look much stronger than they do in the raw capacity rankings, each sitting around 2 to 2.7 GW of WWS per million people, while the United States is only about 1.1. China also looks impressive, not just because of its enormous total, but because even after dividing by 1.416 billion people it still sits well ahead of the US and Europe. India’s position changes the other way. Its 257.8 GW is enormous in absolute terms, but spread across 1.464 billion people it comes out to only about 0.18 GW per million, essentially the same as Pakistan. That does not diminish India’s achievement. It clarifies where India is in the transition. It is already a giant by total installed capacity, but still early in the buildout relative to the scale of the population it will ultimately need to support with clean electricity.
The energy consumption per capita chart reframes the earlier renewables deployment comparisons by separating countries that have built a lot of wind, water, and solar from countries that have built enough to make a large dent in the energy demands of each person in the economy. Canada, the United States, and Australia sit high on total energy use per person, at roughly 96.9, 75.5, and 61.9 MWh per person, while India and Pakistan are far lower at about 7.4 and 3.7 MWh per person using the consistent Energy Institute primary energy series.
That matters because it shows that India’s and Pakistan’s WWS buildouts look different depending on the denominator. In absolute terms, India is already a giant at 257.8 GW of WWS and Pakistan is a noteworthy breakout case at 45.2 GW once distributed solar is counted, but against the much lower energy consumption of their populations, those deployments look less like underperformance and more like early-stage systems in economies that still consume far less energy per person than rich countries. India’s low WWS per person figure is not just a sign that it has more building to do. It is also a sign that the country is adding clean capacity before reaching the very high per-capita energy consumption levels seen in North America. Pakistan’s case is even sharper. Its WWS per person remains low, but so does its total energy consumption per person, which makes its solar surge more significant than a raw comparison with the United States or Europe might suggest. The chart therefore changes the story from a simple ranking of renewable buildout to a question of how much clean infrastructure countries have built relative to how energy-intensive their economies and societies currently are.
The composite chart that compares installed WWS capacity per person with average total energy demand per person adds an important layer to the earlier comparisons because it brings renewable buildout and energy intensity into the same frame. It shows that countries can rank well on raw renewable capacity and still look weak once the scale of the energy system they are trying to displace is taken into account. The United States is the clearest example. It has a large WWS base in absolute terms and a middling position on WWS per person, but once set against roughly 75.5 MWh of total energy consumption per person it falls to the bottom of this comparison. Spain, by contrast, rises to the top because it combines relatively strong WWS per person with much lower total energy demand per person than North America. China and Europe also look strong because they have built large clean systems without carrying the same per-capita energy burden as the US and Canada. The chart also reframes India and Pakistan in a useful way. Both look weak on a simple WWS-per-person basis, but Pakistan rises sharply here because its energy consumption per person is so low, making its distributed solar surge much more significant relative to the scale of the energy demand it serves. India also improves, though less dramatically, which underlines that its renewable buildout is happening in an economy where per-capita energy use remains far below rich-country levels. The chart is not a measure of clean energy share, because it compares installed electric capacity with total primary energy demand, but it is a useful indicator of how far countries have built clean electricity infrastructure relative to the energy intensity of the societies they are trying to power.
The country archetypes are revealing. China is the all-of-the-above scale builder, with giant hydro, giant wind, and giant solar in one system. Europe is the diverse multi-country clean power zone, held together by policy durability, interconnection, and cumulative investment. India is the breakout developing-world giant. Brazil is the hydro-plus-growth case. Canada is hydro-rich but still light on solar. Spain is a compact, high-performing wind-solar-hydro system. Australia is the solar-forward, rooftop-heavy, resource-rich case. Türkiye is a strong middle-power builder, with about 25.8 GW of solar, 15 GW of wind, and 32.3 GW of hydro. Pakistan is the undercounted distributed-solar story. The United States is the country with every structural advantage and a result that remains weak in both raw total capacity and capacity relative to GDP, punching far below its weight on key measures of the energy transition.
The wider lesson is that the global energy transition is no longer mainly a story of wealthy Western countries demonstrating technical feasibility. It is now a story of Asian scale, multiple development pathways, and increasingly uneven performance among major economies. IRENA’s 2026 capacity statistics show that solar accounted for about 510 GW of global renewable additions in 2025 and wind another 159 GW. China drove a large share of that. India is now adding at a pace that makes it impossible to relegate to the future tense. Europe remains large and serious. Brazil shows how hydro-rich systems can compound their structural advantage. The US remains important, but it is no longer plausible to describe it as leading on the physical buildout of clean electricity.
WWS capacity is not the whole transition, but it is the physical foundation under most of the rest of it. Countries that build large clean electricity systems give themselves options. They can electrify transport and buildings more easily. They can support industrial load growth with less fossil dependence. They can lower exposure to imported fuel volatility. They can position themselves for electricity-intensive industry, data centers, storage, and the parts of synthetic fuel production that may eventually make sense. Countries that move slowly are not just keeping emissions higher. They are choosing slower, more expensive, and more brittle economic pathways.
India’s breakout was the thing that crossed my screen. The deeper lesson was that the global table has changed, and the United States is behind both on the sheer quantity of wind, water, and solar it has built and on how much it has built relative to the size of its economy. The denier and delayer catch phrase should turn from “But what about China/India?” into “But what about the United States?”
CleanTechnica’s Comment Policy
Michael Barnard works with executives, investors, and policymakers to navigate the pathways toward decarbonization. He helps make sense of complex transitions by combining insights from physics, economics, and human systems, turning them into practical strategies and clear opportunities. His work spans sectors from sustainable building materials and aviation fuels to grid storage and logistics, always with an eye on how they fit together in the larger picture of the clean economy. Informed by projects across North America, Asia, and Latin America, his perspective is both global and grounded in real-world application. Michael shares his thinking through regular publications on technology trends, innovation, and policy frameworks — not as final answers, but as contributions to an ongoing conversation about building a sustainable future.
Michael Barnard has 1356 posts and counting. See all posts by Michael Barnard

source

Credits: Original: SVKMBFLY; this edit: MPF, CC BY 4.0, no changes made
The protection of animal life in energy-producing endeavors is of paramount importance.
As our society has progressed, balancing the need for more energy with conservation of animal life is paramount for future generations. That being said, how does one species of bird in India lead to the suspension of a massive solar power project in a nation that desperately needs power?
Which bird has caused all these changes in the iconic nation of India?
We have come to understand the vast differences in power demand across the world.
The overall energy consumed by nations depends heavily on where on Earth you’re talking about. This nation consumes roughly 12,000 TWh of primary energy every single year.
That number is dependent mostly on how many people live in a specific region of the world.
Nations with far denser populations, like India, need far more power. India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer, and electricity consumption is only headed in one direction in India: up.
Recent estimates are that the nation will see its energy consumption triple by 2035.
We have come to better understand the need to wave a not-so-fond farewell to the oil industry.
The conflict in Iran has seen the price of Brent crude oil skyrocket as oil shipping vessels are stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. And that’s just the latest in a long line of issues that have affected the global oil market in recent years.
The war in Ukraine saw many nations, including this one, imposing sanctions on Russian oil companies.
Although that certainly has not stopped a clandestine oil “superhighway” from selling sanctioned Russian oil on the black market. An investigation found several seemingly unconnected companies selling over $90 billion worth of Russian oil.
And as the geopolitical issues devastate the oil industry, the green energy transition has been gaining momentum over the past few decades.
Many states across the nation have committed to drastic reductions in electric bills for residents. But how can this be achieved without the help of the clean energy sector over the years to come?
The iconic nation of India has become one of the top destinations for the renewable energy subsector.
Huge clouds of smog regularly cover cities like New Delhi, making the air almost unbreathable. To avert a nationwide health crisis, the government fast-tracked the adoption of the renewable energy sector.
Solar power was the obvious solution as India experiences almost year-round sunlight.
And new solar power technology has made the sector the natural choice for the now climate-minded Indian government. Other significant and unexpected benefits of solar panel arrays have emerged in recent months. But this development in India may see a huge solar panel project being halted altogether.
The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard bird has seen its numbers drop to around 150 recently.
This forced the Indian Supreme Court to mandate that the government designate land that was earmarked for a massive solar project for the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard bird.
The bird has been found to fly directly into power lines that emerge out of solar panel farms.
This ruling by the Indian Supreme Court has effectively suspended large-scale solar projects in the Rajasthan and Gujarat regions in favor of prioritizing environmental conservation for these critically endangered birds.
Similar mandates have emerged around the world to save near-extinct species of animals, but at the cost of powering the world. So we need to better develop a balance between lighting up our lives while keeping the world of animal life in the forefront of our minds.
© 2026 by Ecoportal
© 2026 by Ecoportal

source

Four new EV fast chargers running on solar power have been launched in California between LA and Vegas at 65857 Rasor Rd, Baker, CA. The company that launched them is PowerStation, which is making the charging sessions at the new station free until the end of May.
The four charging ports are CCS, and there are six more fast chargers planned for this summer which will have NACS ports. The charging station has 1,080 solar panels to generate clean, renewable electricity and battery storage to store excess electricity to provide charges at night.
One EV driver said he was able to charge at 170 kW. The CCS chargers have a peak of 360 kW, but not all EVs can charge at such a high rate. The NACS chargers coming in summer will be much faster than 360 kW. The new charging station is located close to I-15 and is open 24/7.
It must be stated that EV chargers can be operated using clean, renewable electricity. Gas pumps at gas stations can only use dirty, toxic fuels that will never be clean or renewable.
Video comments
Solar-powered EV chargers are not so common at the moment but they do exist and more and more EV chargers will likely be powered by solar and wind power in the future. In Oregon there is a fast charging hub with solar power and a huge one in Southern California.
Every time a new public EV charger is installed, the addition increases the number of public EV chargers available, and, in turn, demonstrates the approaching end of gas stations and gasmobiles. More fossil fuels is the harm, not the solution, and the online trolls, critics and haters never have any solutions.
CleanTechnica’s Comment Policy
Hello, I have been writing online for some time, and enjoy the outdoors. If you like, you can follow me on BlueSky. https://bsky.app/profile/jakersol.bsky.social
Jake Richardson has 1360 posts and counting. See all posts by Jake Richardson

source

Copyright: Any unauthorized use or reproduction of The Daily Star content for commercial purposes
is strictly prohibited and constitutes copyright infringement liable to legal action.
China’s long-term strategy of diversifying energy sources and building stockpiles is helping it weather disruptions from the Iran war, although some sectors still face major snags, analysts say.
China is a net importer of oil and more than half of its seaborne crude came from the Middle East last year, according to analytics firm Kpler.
The conflict triggered by Israel and the United States against Iran has halted almost all shipments from the Gulf area for six weeks now, with a shaky ceasefire deal struck this week extremely unlikely to lead to an immediate recovery.
However, Beijing’s long-running prioritisation of energy security has left it well-prepared for such shocks, analysts told AFP.
A “general concern about the geopolitical situation” in recent years has spurred Chinese leaders to ensure sufficient storage construction and stockpiling of strategic reserves, said Muyu Xu, senior oil analyst at Kpler.
Those efforts mean China now sits in a far better position than several of its Asian neighbours, such as Japan and the Philippines, she said.
But so far Beijing has not been “in a rush” to initiate releases from its substantial strategic reserves, said Xu.

‘Vindicated’
This is partly because China’s decades-long mission to diminish its traditional reliance on coal and fossil fuels is beginning to flourish.
The large-scale efforts to transition to renewable energy mean “China is relatively well placed” to deal with the current situation, said Lauri Myllyvirta, co-founder of the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.
Wind, solar and nuclear capacity has been added to China’s populous coastal provinces, while improved grid infrastructure carries electricity to them from inland.
“There would be much more oil and gas imports needed to power those provinces” otherwise, said Myllyvirta.
While dependencies still exist — including in the vast manufacturing sector — renewable energy is “helping a lot on the margin”, he said.
Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society, told AFP that the current energy crisis “vindicates China’s long-standing ‘all-of-the-above’ strategy”.
President Xi Jinping is seeking to leverage the renewables build-out even further as geopolitical turmoil mounts.
State broadcaster CCTV aired a segment on Monday in which Xi was quoted as calling for accelerated construction of a “new energy system” to safeguard energy security, although it did not mention the Middle East war.

‘Teapot’ trouble brewing
For Beijing, the “more serious risk” is not immediate energy shocks but a potential global economic downturn caused by the conflict, the Asia Society’s Li said.
Some sectors will inevitably feel the pinch, presenting new hurdles for leaders struggling to jumpstart sluggish activity.
Among them are “teapot” oil refineries — small, private outfits that have historically benefited from access to sanctioned Iranian and Venezuelan crude acquired at a discount.
The loss of Iranian crude could be a death knell for many of these operations, which are mainly concentrated in the eastern province of Shandong and are already reeling from Washington’s military intervention in Venezuela this year.
Beijing likely has “mixed feelings” about that, Kpler’s Xu told AFP.
On the one hand, teapots account for around one-fifth of China’s refining capacity, also providing substantial employment, she said.
However, their lax environmental standards, less predictable tax generation and competition with state-owned giants means that their shutting down is “not entirely bad news for China”, said Xu.
Chipmaking, which Xi has declared a strategic priority, is another sector likely to encounter challenges as the Strait of Hormuz remains shut.
Qatar is one of the world’s few large-scale producers of helium — vital for semiconductor manufacturing — and supplies have ground to a halt since the war began.
The chemicals industry could also face “significant pressure” from the disruption, Michal Meidan from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies wrote in a recent report.
On a national level though, she said, “the impacts can be smoothed out”.
“While the economy will not be immune to higher prices and reduced economic activity, stakeholders are already taking pre-emptive measures in case the disruption is protracted,” she wrote.
Copyright: Any unauthorized use or reproduction of The Daily Star content for commercial purposes
is strictly prohibited and constitutes copyright infringement liable to legal action.

source

PG Solar Panel Bird Proofing Mesh Speed Clips – 30mm, No-Drill Installation, 100 Pack For Pigeon & Pest Protection  ruhrkanal.news
source

It is time we focused on solar PV waste disposal  The Statesman
source

Posted on: Nov 2024
Reading time: 9 min
Share:
At COP26 in 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India would meet 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030 and that it would have 500 GW of non-fossil¹This includes large-scale hydro and nuclear power as well as renewables. electricity capacity by the same date. India’s 2022 revision to its Nationally Determined Contribution commits to achieving 50% of electricity (rather than total energy) capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.²Nationally Determined Contributions (or NDCs) are statements from signatories to the Paris Agreement setting out their national efforts to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. 
The government claims that these objectives represent the world’s largest expansion plan for renewables, and there has been a rapid growth of renewables generation in the last 10 years. However, achieving the targets will require a sustained effort – including building up its domestic manufacturing and recycling capacities to secure India’s access to renewable technologies. There is clear evidence that the targets will not be achieved: meeting the 2030 target for 500 GW of renewable electricity capacity has slipped to 2031-32 as the country struggles to drive sufficient deployment of renewables.
China dominates global manufacturing of clean energy technologies. While India has some profile in solar PV manufacturing, it does not have a significant presence in manufacturing other clean energy technologies (figure 1).
The International Energy Agency does not expect the concentration of solar PV manufacturing in China to be reduced over the next decade despite investment plans in India and the US. This is because much of China’s existing solar manufacturing capacity is not currently being used. As demand for more solar PV grows, this excess capacity is expected to enter use, diluting the impact of additional capacity elsewhere. 
With 80% of the market, China currently leads global solar PV module manufacturing capacity. In comparison, India had 1.9% of the market in 2022. China also dominates PV cell production, producing 331 GW of solar cells in 2022, around 84% of total global production, while India produced 0.6% of PV modules globally.
China is also responsible for more than 95% of wafer manufacture, with 371 GW of wafers produced in 2022 and an annual production capacity of 673 GW. Indian companies plan to expand wafer production capacity up to 41 GW a year by 2025.³The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) has a slightly more pessimistic assumption, and estimates that ingots/wafers and polysilicon production facilities could be added by 2026 rather than very rapid growth by 2025. However, given that manufacturing costs in India are higher than those in China, the total production capacity might not all be used as there remains significant excess capacity in China.
The excess capacity in the global solar PV market presents India with a dilemma. The government is actively encouraging new manufacturing capacity to be built through its Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.⁴The Production-Linked Incentive is intended to encourage manufacturing of high-efficiency solar PV modules by reducing investment costs in new manufacturing facilities through payments linked to sales of the modules. However there is no guarantee that the capacity will be used in the short term, especially if prices for Indian solar components are higher than for those produced in China. 
Currently, India’s solar PV industry is heavily dependent on imports, with around 90% of PV modules coming from China. The top three module suppliers in India are also Chinese (Jinko, LONGi and Trina), although their market share might decline as a result of the Indian government’s implementation of an approved list of models and manufacturers (ALMM) from April 2024.⁵The ALMM sets out which manufacturers are eligible for government subsidy and support and is limited to companies that manufacture PV modules in India. 
India has exempted imports of some solar PV components used in the manufacture of modules from Basic Customs Duty. In effect, India is performing a balancing act: trying to encourage a domestic solar PV industry while also recognising that importing some components for solar modules is necessary and will have to be as cheap as possible to enable the industry to compete with Chinese manufacturers.
Driven by the PLI, large Indian companies are considering building domestic supply chains for solar PV modules to challenge Chinese dominance. For example, Adani Solar hopes to develop a fully vertically integrated supply chain from ingots to modules, as well as building the 648-MW Fatehgarh/Kamuthi solar park.
Wind turbines are complex machines. Companies often manufacture one or more components but not necessarily the whole turbine. For example, a company might manufacture turbine blades or assemble nacelles but not be involved in gearbox or tower manufacture. Other companies might assemble components made elsewhere to produce the final turbine.
Overall, India ranks third globally for wind turbine and component production, behind China and Europe, but ahead of the US and Brazil.
India has 7% of global nacelle assembly capacity, with 13 facilities capable of producing 11.5 GW of nacelles a year. There are no offshore wind nacelle facilities in India, and none are planned. In comparison, China has 97 operating nacelle facilities, of which 20 are for offshore wind, with a further 47 planned in the offshore segment.
Around 70-80% of wind turbines deployed in India are made there, whether by domestic companies or global players with a presence in the country. At the moment, however, wind manufacturing capability in India is underutilised because of low demand in the domestic market. 
India does have a sizeable export market though, notably to the US. It was the largest wind-related exporter to the US in 2022, with an estimated value of USD 518 million. Generating sets – including nacelles and turbine blades – and hubs made up the bulk of these exports. Overall, the value of global wind exports from India outweighs the value created in the country.
As with other energy technologies, renewable technologies are manufactured using a wide range of minerals.⁶Table 1 shows a selection of minerals but others are also relevant, including manganese and silicon. The degree to which individual technologies rely on these minerals varies (table 1).
There is no universal definition of ‘critical minerals’ – the concept is instead related to an individual country’s assessment of the importance of any given mineral to its security and economic development, as well as threats to the availability of that mineral. The Indian government conducted an assessment of the importance of minerals to their economy in 2023 which categorises copper, cobalt, lithium, Rare Earth Elements and Platinum Group minerals as critical for India (table 2).
Cobalt, nickel and lithium are not produced domestically, leaving India reliant on imports. While aluminium and copper are produced in India, there are also significant imports of both materials (around 35% and 20%, respectively), meaning that ensuring the international supply chains for these minerals becomes central to developing domestic manufacturing industries in wind and solar.
The IEA states that increasing efforts to recycle critical minerals is essential to mitigate possible supply constraints in future. End-of-life recycling of equipment built using these minerals can help reduce this reliance and therefore boost security of supply and limit vulnerability to price spikes, as well as lowering new resource use and environmental impacts of a net-zero transition.
The need to recycle PV panels to recover critical minerals will become an increasingly pressing problem in India as panels reach the end of their operating lives (after around 30 years). The Council on Energy, Environment and Water estimates that meeting India’s PV targets will result in cumulative waste of almost 600 kilotonnes (kt) from existing and new PV capacity by 2030 and nearly 19,000 kt by 2050, a 30-fold increase.
Up to 95% of the materials used in PV panels can be recovered at the end of their life. Recycling solar panels is increasingly common worldwide and some European countries are recycling or reusing 100% of their PV panels waste.⁷France, Portugal and Spain achieved 100% recycling or reuse in 2021.
India has established a system of extended producer responsibility (EPR) for e-waste and set up recycling targets for electronic equipment with a goal of achieving 80% recycling by 2028-29. The rules apply to manufacturers, producers, refurbishers and recyclers of PV modules or panels and require them to register for an EPR certificate. One of the aims of the system is to formalise the e-waste recycling sector and reduce reliance on informal, unmonitored recyclers.
Solar panels were added to the e-waste management rules in 2022. However, the e-waste recycling targets for equipment do not apply to PV wastes.
There is some data on the number of EPR certificates granted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the amount of materials involved on the EPR e-waste portal. However, there is no data on the levels of recycling achieved, whether that is from PV panels or other e-wastes. 
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change published data on e-waste recycling in February 2024. This shows a significant increase in e-waste recycling between 2016 and 2022 and also provides data per state. There is no information on whether e-waste recycling targets are being achieved, what materials are being recycled or how much PV waste was recycled.
Between 80% and 94% of a wind turbine’s mass can be easily recycled. This includes steel, aluminium and copper used in the turbine’s tower, gearbox and generators. While nacelles are made of composite materials which are more challenging to recycle, it is increasingly possible to recycle them too.
There is a lack of information on wind turbine recycling in India. The key components would be steel for the towers and components in the nacelles. Recycling steel is a well-established industry in India, using about 32 million tonnes in 2022/23 for new steel production. The government is reported to be aiming to increase the use of recycled steel to 50% of steel production by 2047.
ZCA Team
This is the product of ZCA’s hive mind. Writers and editors collaborated together on this piece, making it more than the product of a single author. See more about our team here.
May 2023
Renewables represent a more cost effective, reliable and climate friendly alternative to increasing liquified natural gas imports.
Apr 2022
The report covers the major developments in our knowledge of mitigation since the IPCC’s AR5 was published in 2014.
Oct 2020
The finance sector has a crucial role to play in redirecting capital towards decarbonising the global economy.

source

source

Rajasthan officially became the first Indian state to surpass the 30 Gigawatt (GW) installed solar capacity mark today. This milestone was achieved with the commissioning of a new 500MW unit at the Bhadla Solar Park, which already holds the title of the world’s largest solar farm. This achievement alone accounts for nearly 20% of India’s total solar energy goal, positioning the desert state as the “Green Powerhouse” of the subcontinent. The state government estimates that this capacity is now enough to power over 15 million households while offsetting millions of tons of carbon dioxide annually.
Grid Integration and Energy Storage The challenge for Rajasthan now shifts from “generation” to “storage.” To manage the intermittent nature of solar power, the state has launched India’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Jodhpur. This facility allows the grid to store excess solar energy generated during the day and discharge it during peak evening hours. Union Power Ministry officials have hailed this as a “Proof of Concept” for other solar-rich states like Gujarat and Karnataka. The integration of AI-driven weather forecasting has also allowed the state to predict generation dips with 95% accuracy, ensuring grid stability.
Social Impact in the Thar Desert The solar boom has transformed the local economy of the Thar region. Landowners who previously struggled with arid farming are now earning steady “sun-rentals” from energy companies. Additionally, the government has mandated that 5% of all solar revenue be reinvested into local water conservation and education projects. As Rajasthan eyes a new target of 50GW by 2028, the state is also exploring “Agrivoltaics”—where crops are grown underneath solar panels—to maximize land use efficiency and provide shade in the scorching desert heat.
Before relying on or taking any action based on the news, articles, or sponsored content published on this website, we strongly recommend reviewing our Legal Disclaimer . By accessing and using this website, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined therein.
newspress.co.in is your news, entertainment, music fashion website. We provide you with the latest breaking news and videos straight from the entertainment industry. Fashion fades, only style remains the same. Fashion never stops.
Contact us: Bigsoftcompany@gmail
Copyright – newspress.co.in

source

T1 Energy: Solar, AI, And Load Growth (NYSE:TE)  Seeking Alpha
source

source

Turnips grown under solar panels boost productivity, could add nearly $36B in economic benefit  Yahoo
source

By Joe Wilkins
Published Apr 12, 2026 8:15 AM EDT
Sign up to see the future, today
Can’t-miss innovations from the bleeding edge of science and tech
What’s not to love about solar energy? Using photovoltaic cells — tiny semiconductors that convert light directly into electricity — we’re able to harness the power of the Sun itself, turning it into wattage to power our homes.
It’s great in theory, but there’s a huge catch. Of all the power our star graciously beams to us, only about 33 percent of it can ever be turned into usable electricity, and most commercial solar panels don’t even come close to that.
This ceiling is known as the Shockley-Queisser limit, named after the two physicists who first theorized it back in 1961. The reason comes down to thermodynamics: sunlight comes to us as a vast rainbow of light energy, but we can only convert a narrow slice of that spectrum into usable electricity. The rest either passes through, or is lost as excess heat.
But now it’s possible that a novel process could blow the Shockley-Quiesser limit wide open. In a new paper published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, a team of scientists in Japan and Germany detail a method they say can capture the parts of the light spectrum that would otherwise be burned off as residual heat.
Basically, the researchers found that if you blast a certain compound with high-energy blue light — a part of the light band that we normally can’t convert to electricity — you can split the incoming energy into two usable parts. Using their method, the team was able to achieve around 130 percent energy conversion efficiency, meaning that for every 100 photons that entered, they could harvest 130 usable energy carriers.
To achieve the breakthrough, the team mixed the organic molecule tetracene with the metallic element molybdenum. While scientists had previously used tetracene to harness this kind of high-energy blue light before, there were practical issues preventing prolonged energy conversion, which they say the addition of molybdenum solved.
“We have two main strategies to break through this [Shockley-Queisser] limit,” Yoichi Sasaki, a chemist at Kyushu University and one of the study’s coauthors, said in a press release. “One is to convert lower-energy infrared photons into higher-energy visible photons. The other, what we explore here, is to use singlet fission to generate two excitons from a single exciton photon.”
It’s important to highlight that these are controlled lab tests so far. The most efficient commercially available solar panels still ring in with around a 25 percent efficiency rate, and that probably won’t change anytime soon. Still, it’s the biggest crack so far in a theoretical ceiling that’s stood for over 60 years.
More on solar energy: $60 Million Startup Says It’s Invented a New Particle to Dim the Sun
I’m a tech and labor correspondent for Futurism, where my beat includes the role of emerging technologies in governance, surveillance, and labor.
By Victor Tangermann
By Frank Landymore
By Frank Landymore
By Joe Wilkins
By Victor Tangermann
By Frank Landymore
By Frank Landymore
By Maggie Harrison Dupré
By Frank Landymore
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
By Dan Robitzski
By Jacob Banas
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
By Joe Wilkins
By Frank Landymore
By Joe Wilkins
By Kristin Houser
By Frank Landymore
By Joe Wilkins
By Joe Wilkins
By Frank Landymore
By Joe Wilkins
By Frank Landymore
By Victor Tangermann
By Frank Landymore
By Jacob Banas
By Dan Robitzski
By Victor Tangermann
By Joe Wilkins
By Frank Landymore
By Victor Tangermann
By Victor Tangermann
Sign up to see the future, today
Can’t-miss innovations from the bleeding edge of science and tech
Disclaimer(s)
Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service.
© 2026 Recurrent. All rights reserved.

source

A team at the National University of Singapore found a way to make tandem solar cells work better and last longer. They used a specific molecule, 2-mercaptobenzothiazole, to stabilize the perovskite layer that sits on top of the silicon.
Standard silicon solar panels have a physical limit to how much energy they can convert. By adding this molecule during manufacturing, the team controlled how the crystals formed. This resulted in a power conversion efficiency of 32.76 percent, beating traditional silicon-only arrays.
Durability is usually the biggest problem for these high-efficiency cells. The team ran the experimental panels for 1,700 hours straight. Even after that stress test, the panels kept 91 percent of their original efficiency. This suggests the panels could survive the heat and weather changes of real-world use for years.
This discovery matters because it fixes two major hurdles at once the need for high energy output and the need for a panel that doesn’t break down quickly. It gives manufacturers a clearer path to move this technology from a university lab to actual rooftops.
Welcome to Technetbook, your premier destination for Tech

source

Anti-Reverse Charging Diode Rectifier Module MD200A 1600V – For Solar Panels, Battery Systems, PV Combiner Box | High Voltage, Low Leakage, 150℃ Rated  ruhrkanal.news
source

Bracket Z Shape Photovoltaic Solar Panel Mounting Aluminum Bracket For Rv Yacht  primetimes.id
source

source

Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More
Continue in Browser
Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts.
Please enter a valid zipcode.
Save
MADISON — Wisconsin has historically lagged behind its Midwestern neighbors in clean energy production.
Minnesota has five times the wind capacity and more than 16 times the solar capacity of Wisconsin, according to a report by the Environmental Law and Policy Center.
But environmental activists said that’s starting to change. Amy Barrilleaux, with Clean Wisconsin, is expecting the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to approve about 11 clean energy products in 2026 alone. She said that’s more in one year than usual.
“We do rely more on coal than a lot of our neighbors, so this is a good thing to try to get us away from those harmful fuels that we have been using,” said Barrilleaux.
She said a bitter cold snap this winter showed how Wisconsin’s reliance on coal and natural gas for energy production puts more of a cost burden on consumers.
“It caused a terrible strain on natural gas supplies, so here in Wisconsin we saw the prices in our energy bills go up, because it’s a commodity, you see the prices go up, and we are feeling that in a lot of ways right now with fossil fuels,” said Barrilleaux. “The important thing for people to understand is that we don’t have commodity prices on wind or on solar, and that’s what makes these sources for energy now the least expensive ways to get energy in Wisconsin.”
There’s been a push statewide for solar energy production. The Darien Solar Energy Center in Walworth and Rock counties became fully operational last year. It has more than 600,000 solar panels and can power roughly 75,000 homes. It’s a joint project serving customers of Wisconsin Public Service, Madison Gas and Electric and We Energies.
We Energies spokesperson Brendan Conway said the company is investing billions in new solar and wind projects to replace fossil fuel plants. 
“Once they are built, they take very little maintenance,” said Conway.
However, the cost of building all this clean energy infrastructure is part of the reason Wisconsinites pay some of the highest electricity rates in the Midwest.
“They cost at the front end, but in the long term, we expect they will help to keep customer bills down because they don’t require fuel,” said Conway.
Barrilleaux said there’s another way clean energy is more cost-effective.
“Wisconsin spends $14 billion a year bringing energy from other states, because we don’t mine for coal, frack for gas, or drill for oil here. So, we have to ship or pipe it all in from other states,” she said. “But we do have the unlimited natural resources of wind and sun.”

source

From daily news and career tips to monthly insights on AI, sustainability, Aerospace, and more—pick what matters and get it in your inbox.
Access expert insights, exclusive content, and a deeper dive into engineering and innovation.
Engineering-inspired textiles, mugs, hats, and thoughtful gifts
We connect top engineering talent with the world's most innovative companies.
We empower professionals with advanced engineering and tech education to grow careers.
We recognize outstanding achievements in engineering, innovation, and technology.
All Rights Reserved, IE Media, Inc.
Follow Us On
Access expert insights, exclusive content, and a deeper dive into engineering and innovation.
Engineering-inspired textiles, mugs, hats, and thoughtful gifts
We connect top engineering talent with the world's most innovative companies
We empower professionals with advanced engineering and tech education to grow careers.
We recognize outstanding achievements in engineering, innovation, and technology.
All Rights Reserved, IE Media, Inc.
Researchers started with balsa wood, not for its strength, but for its internal architecture.
Solar energy has a simple but annoying weakness. It disappears when the sun does. Even the most efficient systems struggle with this basic reality—no sunlight means no power. Scientists have long tried to fix this by storing solar energy as heat, but doing it efficiently has proven tricky. 
Most designs rely on stacking different materials together—one to absorb sunlight, another to store heat, and then another to protect the system. These layers don’t work seamlessly, wasting energy at every boundary.
Now, researchers have taken a very different approach to overcome this problem. Instead of assembling multiple parts, they’ve turned wood into an all-in-one solar energy system. 
By redesigning its internal structure at the nanoscale, they’ve created a material that can absorb sunlight, store it as heat, and keep generating electricity even after the light is gone. 
“Our work presents a scalable and environmentally friendly wood-based platform for advanced solar thermal energy harvesting,” the researchers note in their study.
The researchers started with balsa wood, not for its strength, but for its internal architecture. Under a microscope, balsa looks like a bundle of aligned microtubes, each about 20–50 micrometers wide. These channels can guide heat and hold materials, making them a natural scaffold.
However, raw wood reflects sunlight and absorbs water. So the researchers first stripped the wood of lignin, the component that gives it color and rigidity. This delignification step boosted porosity above 93 percent, exposing a dense network of reactive surfaces inside the channels. 
Think of it as hollowing out the wood and turning it into a highly porous sponge—but one that still retains its directional structure. Next, instead of burning the wood (a common method called carbonization), they chemically engineered its inner surfaces. 
They coated the channel walls with ultrathin sheets of black phosphorene—a material that absorbs sunlight across ultraviolet, visible, and infrared wavelengths and converts it into heat. Unlike carbon, phosphorene also brings flame-retardant properties, but it has a weakness. It degrades quickly in the air.
To solve this, the researchers wrapped each nanosheet in a protective layer made from tannic acid and iron ions. This metal–polyphenol network acts like a molecular shield, preventing oxidation while also improving light absorption through charge-transfer effects. Even after 150 days of solar exposure, the coated material remained stable.
The team then added silver nanoparticles, which enhance light absorption through plasmonic effects—basically amplifying how the material interacts with sunlight. Finally, they grafted long hydrocarbon chains onto the surface, making it extremely water-repellent. The finished structure had a contact angle of 153°, meaning water simply rolls off.
With the scaffold ready, they filled the channels with stearic acid—a bio-based phase-change material. When heated, this substance melts and stores energy; when cooled, it solidifies and releases that energy. 
This stability translated directly into strong performance. It stored about 175 kJ of heat per kilogram, converted 91.27 percent of incoming sunlight into usable heat, conducted heat nearly 3.9 times more efficiently along the wood’s natural grain, and, when paired with a thermoelectric generator, produced up to 0.65 volts under standard one-sun illumination.
“As a proof of concept, stable solar–thermal–electric conversion is demonstrated with an output voltage of up to 0.65 V under one-sun irradiation,” the study authors note.
When sunlight hits the material, it heats up and melts the embedded stearic acid. When the light is removed, the stored heat is released gradually, maintaining a temperature difference across a thermoelectric generator. This allows the system to keep producing electricity even after the light source is gone.
Moreover, the material proved to be durable. After 100 heating–cooling cycles, its performance barely changed. It resisted burning by self-extinguishing within two minutes, and its antimicrobial surface prevented bacterial growth that could degrade performance outdoors.
Our design “integrates flame retardancy, superhydrophobicity, and antimicrobial activity, thereby mitigating dust adhesion and microbial colonization that would otherwise deteriorate the outdoor photothermal performance,” the study authors added. 
This work suggests a simple way to build a highly efficient solar system. Here, wood isn’t just a support structure; it absorbs sunlight, stores heat, and protects itself at the same time. 
Also, since the researchers avoided high-temperature carbonization, the material also keeps the chemical features needed for further tweaks.
Moreover, the idea could go beyond solar energy. Similar designs might help manage heat in electronics, improve energy-efficient building materials, or support small, off-grid power systems where reliability matters more than peak output.
However, these are future possibilities. First, the researchers need to make sure their system can work at scale while delivering desirable energy output. 
If successful, it could be adapted to other nanomaterials and biomass structures, giving rise to a new generation of solar power systems capable of capturing, storing, and managing energy on their own.
The study is published in the journal Advanced Energy Materials.

Rupendra Brahambhatt is an experienced writer, researcher, journalist, and filmmaker. With a B.Sc (Hons.) in Science and PGJMC in Mass Communications, he has been actively working with some of the most innovative brands, news agencies, digital magazines, documentary filmmakers, and nonprofits from different parts of the globe. As an author, he works with a vision to bring forward the right information and encourage a constructive mindset among the masses.
Exclusive content, expert insights and a deeper dive into engineering and tech. No ads, no limits.
Exclusive content, expert insights and a deeper dive into engineering and tech. No ads, no limits.
Premium
Follow

source

© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
“So far, it’s just impressive being off the grid.”
Photo Credit: Reddit
As U.S. power prices continue to rise, more and more homeowners are pairing solar panels with whole-home batteries to take control of their own energy production. One homeowner recently posted on Reddit to share their review after pairing a Tesla Powerwall 3 with solar panels. 
In the forum r/solar, the original poster discussed that their family had just finalized the installation of 30 solar panels and two Tesla Powerwalls. 
“Today was the first real use, completely off the grid. We’re waiting for city inspection and re-metering by the power company before we can export surplus power back to the grid,” the OP wrote. “However, so far, it’s just impressive being off the grid.”
According to their estimates, the solar panel and battery system should pay for itself in utility savings in six to eight years. With modern solar panels having a lifespan of a few decades, the OP should see some major savings after that. 
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area.
To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
“We are … looking [at] 30 or so years of lowered electricity bills,” they said. 
If the OP’s testimony has you curious about how much solar and batteries can shave your energy bills, EnergySage can help by connecting you with quick installation estimates, competitive quotes, and information about how to get the best deal when upgrading. 
This homeowner isn’t the only one seeing the savings after investing in solar. There are plenty of online testimonials that reveal just how quickly solar panels pay off. 
Over the lifetime of a system, homeowners can usually see anywhere from $31,000 to $120,000 in savings by producing their own energy with solar. 
FROM OUR PARTNER
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers that can help you save as much as $10k on installation.
To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best local options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
If you’re curious about solar, but are concerned about the upfront cost, EnergySage can help you here, too. The average homeowner who uses its free tools can save up to $10,000 on the cost of installation. 
EnergySage even has a helpful mapping tool that can show you, on a state-by-state level, the average cost of solar panels and get you details on all of the incentives available, ensuring you get the best price possible for your home solar system. 
Which of these savings plans for rooftop solar panels would be most appealing for you?
Save $1,000 this year 💸
Save less this year but $20k in 10 years 💰
Save less in 10 years but $80k in 20 years 🤑
Couldn’t pay me to go solar 😒
Click your choice to see results and earn rewards to spend on home upgrades.

Plus, you can save even more by pairing your solar panels with a home battery backup. Essentially, batteries store the energy your solar panels generate during the day and use it to power your home after the sun goes down, often when electricity rates are at their highest.
Battery and solar solutions can help you take control of your power bills, dodge frustrating outages, and, depending on the size of your system and how much energy you use, cut ties with the power grid entirely. EnergySage also has information about battery storage options and competitive installation estimates. 
💡Go deep on the latest news and trends shaping the residential solar landscape
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.

source

Residents ‘devastated’ by new mega solar farm plan
Rory McIlroy's historic 36-hole lead is gone.
The two-legged quarterfinal matchups will take place April 7-8 and 14-15.
"Usyk has earned the right to do whatever he wants," said the 21-year-old Itauma, "but I don't think it's correct for Rico to be able to fight for the world title in his first fight."
The Trump administration's position on refunding all tariffs declared illegal by the Supreme Court has been slow to take shape. But a new court filing this past week seemed to acknowledge that a wide array of duties will eventually be eligible for refunds.
It's stock market reality-check time.
For all that Tiger Woods has done on the golf course, his life outside the ropes continues to spiral.
A federal judge on Friday threw out two subpoenas the Justice Department issued to the Federal Reserve, a significant victory for the Fed and its embattled Chair Jerome Powell.
"WWE Raw" featured a blockbuster night of big names at Madison Square Garden, with CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Gunther and more make their presences felt.
Brock Lesnar never intended to get a massive sword tattooed onto his chest.
Local time in Melbourne, Australia, is 15 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern time zone. So kickoff for the 49ers-Rams game will be at 10:35 a.m local time on Friday, Sept. 11.

source

Homeowner shares story after solar panels spark ‘neighborhood debate’: ‘The HOA has something to say’  Yahoo
source

Search Farmers Guardian
Call 01772 799500 and place your ad today!
Find new and used Farm Machinery,Farm Equipment, Livestock and Property for sale
Search FarmersGuardian
Greater Lincolnshire Mayor Dame Andrea Jenkyns said: "​Yet again, he [Ed Miliband] has ignored common sense and the voices of local people to grant the UK's largest solar farm. At the planning hearing last month, I warned that with escalating global instability, food security is national security. We cannot eat solar panels. I will not roll over while our prime agricultural land is destroyed."
A Reform UK mayor is assessing the possibility of building a case to take to Judicial Review after the Government approved plans for the UK's largest solar farm development on productive farmland. Greater…
Login
New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.
 
IHT story is far from over, but campaign must continue in a different way
What are the next steps farmers can take to stop the family farm tax at a time when some have argued that the fight to raise thresholds is 'dead' under the current Labour Government?
The Institute of Economic Affairs has called on the Government to end Inheritance Tax
MP George Freeman highlighted the role of new technology in protecting the UK’s future food security
All material is copyright Farmers Guardian Limited. Farmers Guardian and Farmersguardian.com are registered trademarks of Farmers Guardian Limited, Unit 4 Fulwood Park, Caxton Road, Fulwood, Preston, England, PR2 9NZ. Farmers Guardian Limited is registered in England and Wales with company registration number 07931451. Part of Arc network, www.arc-network.com.

source

Many people installing solar panels on their vehicles or remote setups face the challenge of finding the right battery to store and use the energy efficiently. The best car battery for solar panels can make a significant difference in performance and reliability.
This type of battery is designed to handle frequent charging and discharging cycles while providing steady power over time. Whether you are powering a campervan, RV, or other off-grid solar systems, choosing the right battery helps ensure your energy needs are met without interruption. In this review, we will explore key features, pros, and potential limitations of some leading car batteries suited for solar panel use.
The goal is to help you make an informed decision that matches your specific requirements and budget.

Featuring SUNER POWER’s Ultra-Smart MPPT (Max Power Point Tracking) technology, this charger achieves tracking efficiency of up to 99% and conversion efficiency as high as 98%. It improves energy capture by approximately 20%-30% compared to standard solar chargers.
The enhanced 3-stage charging process—bulk, absorption, and float—optimizes battery health and performance.
The charger automatically stops charging once the battery is full and resumes when discharge is detected. This trickle maintenance mode prevents overcharging, ensuring battery longevity without the need for manual intervention. Multiple protections guard against overcharge, over-discharge, reverse polarity, short circuits, temperature issues, and more, adding a layer of safety.
Multiple protections guard against overcharge, over-discharge, reverse polarity, short circuits, temperature issues, and more, adding a layer of safety.
Constructed with premium Grade A+ solar cells and tempered glass, the charger is weather-resistant and built to withstand harsh environments. It’s compatible with various 12V batteries including flooded, gel, AGM, SLA, maintenance-free, and LiFePO4 lithium types. Easy installation with included suction cups and plug-and-play cables enhances user experience.
Easy installation with included suction cups and plug-and-play cables enhances user experience.

Pros

• Highly efficient MPPT technology boosts solar power usage up to 30%
• Three-stage charging extends battery life and maintains optimal charge
• Robust safety features protect against common electrical risks

Cons

• Suction cups may not be included in all packages, requiring alternative mounting methods

Reliable and weatherproof, the SUNER POWER solar battery charger presents a practical and smart solution for maintaining 12-volt batteries across many vehicle types. Its ease of use, superior build quality, and safety features make it a valuable addition for anyone looking to preserve battery health effortlessly.

2. POWOXI Upgraded 7.5W-Solar-Battery-Trickle-Charger-Maintainer-12V Portable Waterproof Solar Panel Trickle Charging Kit

Keep your vehicle’s battery reliably charged with the POWOXI Upgraded 5W Solar Battery Trickle Charger. Designed to harness solar energy efficiently, this portable and waterproof kit delivers stable and safe charging wherever your car is parked.
Designed to harness solar energy efficiently, this portable and waterproof kit delivers stable and safe charging wherever your car is parked. Its smart design supports a variety of 12V batteries, making it a versatile solution for maintaining battery health over time.
Whether you’re using it for cars, motorcycles, or farm equipment, this solar charger features enhanced durability and intelligent protection to prevent overcharging or damage. The compact size and clear LED indicators make monitoring charging status simple and hassle-free. Experience uninterrupted power maintenance with this thoughtfully engineered solar kit.

Built with high-transparency tempered glass, the solar panel withstands harsh weather without sacrificing efficiency. Its energy conversion rate ranges between 25% and 30%, ensuring steady power flow to your battery. The integrated smart charge controller adds layers of protection against overvoltage and short circuits, preventing damage during use.
The ABS+PC frame provides exceptional strength to resist scratches and bending, avoiding issues typically caused by metal frames. Installation is straightforward, using alligator clips or a car’s cigar lighter socket, facilitating easy setup across various devices.
This charger supports multiple battery types including LiFePO₄ and Lithium-Ion, broadening its usability beyond just standard car batteries. The solar panel’s LED lights clearly indicate charging status—red for sunlight detection and green for active charging—making it easy to track performance. Customer feedback highlights reliable operation even under cold conditions, confirming its effectiveness in preventing battery drain on seldom-used vehicles.
POWOXI backs this product with CE/ROHS certifications and offers lifetime technical support, reinforcing its quality assurance. Compared to other solar chargers, this model balances power output, durability, and intelligent safety features, providing solid value for anyone needing dependable battery maintenance without frequent manual intervention.

Pros

• Intelligent charge controller protects battery from overcharging and short circuits
• Durable construction with impact-resistant tempered glass and scratch-proof ABS+PC frame
• Easy installation with versatile connection options and clear LED charging indicators

Cons

• Alligator clips may require careful handling to avoid damage on larger battery terminals

The POWOXI 5W solar battery charger is an effective and user-friendly device well-suited for maintaining 12V batteries in vehicles and equipment.

3. Voltset 12V Solar Battery Charger – 20W Waterproof Solar Panel

Harness the power of the sun to keep your 12V batteries energized with the Voltset 12V Solar Battery Charger. Designed for versatility, this 20W waterproof solar panel offers reliable and efficient charging, perfect for cars, RVs, boats, and trailers. Its durable construction ensures performance in all weather conditions.
Its durable construction ensures performance in all weather conditions.
The advanced MPPT technology accelerates charging speed, capturing more sunlight for faster energy conversion. Easy setup and smart protection features make it a convenient and safe choice for maintaining your battery’s health over time.

The Voltset 12V Solar Battery Charger delivers consistent power with its 20-watt monocrystalline panel, known for high efficiency and lasting durability. It comes with an integrated MPPT solar controller that boosts charging speed by 20-30%, reducing wait time while optimizing battery health.
This charger supports a wide range of 12V battery types, including LiFePO4, AGM, Gel, Flooded, and Lithium Ion, making it adaptable across many applications.
Constructed from marine-grade materials, the panel withstands harsh climates from freezing cold to extreme heat. Its IP67 waterproof rating guarantees protection against rain and snow, extending its lifespan beyond 25 years. Installation is hassle-free with pre-drilled mounting holes and an adjustable bracket that sets up within seconds without tools.
Installation is hassle-free with pre-drilled mounting holes and an adjustable bracket that sets up within seconds without tools. The intelligent controller ensures the battery won’t overcharge or drain, auto-stopping when fully charged and resuming when necessary. LED indicators provide real-time charging status, adding ease and monitoring convenience.
This charger is highly practical for maintaining batteries in vehicles or off-grid solar systems. The robust build quality combined with smart technology offers great value by saving you frequent battery replacements. It is especially suitable for users needing a dependable solar trickle charger for everyday battery upkeep in outdoor and mobile environments.

Pros

• Advanced MPPT technology for 20-30% faster charging
• Wide battery compatibility including LiFePO4 and AGM
• Durable, weather-resistant IP67 waterproof design

Cons

• MPPT controller may not fully charge lead-acid batteries without specific settings

With efficient power conversion and rugged construction, the Voltset 12V Solar Battery Charger offers a dependable solution for maintaining your 12V batteries in outdoor conditions. It combines smart features and easy installation, making it a practical choice for extended battery life and reliable off-grid energy use.

4. SUNER POWER Waterproof 30W 12V Solar Battery Charger & Maintainer

Introducing the SUNER POWER Waterproof 30W 12V Solar Battery Charger & Maintainer, a reliable solution to keep your 12-volt batteries charged effortlessly. Designed for durability and high efficiency, this solar charger offers a hassle-free way to maintain batteries in vehicles, boats, and more.
Perfect for long-term battery care, it prevents discharges and extends battery life with smart charging technology. Its waterproof design adds to the convenience, ensuring performance even in challenging outdoor conditions.

Equipped with SUNER POWER’s Ultra-Smart MPPT technology, this solar charger maximizes energy conversion with up to 99% tracking efficiency. The enhanced three-stage charging process uses Bulk, Absorption, and Float modes, guaranteeing thorough and safe battery charging. This method helps increase battery longevity and overall performance without manual intervention.
This method helps increase battery longevity and overall performance without manual intervention.
Maintenance is effortless as the device automatically stops charging once the battery is full and resumes when needed. Users can visually monitor charging progress with clear indicators showing 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% levels.
Multiple charging modes—12V, AGM, and Lithium—allow compatibility with most 12-volt battery types, including flooded, gel, SLA, and LiFePO4. Its built-in safety features protect against overcharge, short circuits, and reverse polarity, making the charger both safe and dependable. The compact setup with pre-drilled mounting holes and plug-and-play cables adds to user-friendliness, allowing quick installation wherever required.

Pros

• Advanced MPPT technology boosts charging efficiency by 20-30%
• Automatic 3-stage charging algorithm extends battery life safely
• Waterproof and durable design suitable for outdoor use

Cons

• 30W power output might be limited for larger battery banks

The SUNER POWER 30W solar charger blends efficiency, safety, and simplicity, providing a smart maintenance solution for various 12V batteries. Its robust features and reliable performance place it among the best options for solar charging needs, especially when compared to other models that lack advanced MPPT control and multi-mode compatibility.

5. SOLPERK Solar Panel Kit 20W 12V, Waterproof Solar Battery Trickle

Harness the power of the sun with the SOLPERK Solar Panel Kit 20W 12V, a practical solution for keeping your 12V batteries charged and ready. Its durable, weatherproof design makes it ideal for outdoor use on trailers, boats, and vehicles.
This kit includes a high-efficiency solar panel combined with an intelligent charge controller to maintain battery health. The adjustable mounting bracket ensures the panel remains optimally positioned to capture sunlight throughout the day.

Designed with monocrystalline A+ solar cells, the SOLPERK panel achieves impressive efficiency between 21% and 30%, delivering reliable power output. It’s compatible with various 12V rechargeable batteries such as LiFePO₄, Lithium Ion, AGM, SLA, and more, making it versatile for multiple applications.
The construction features low-iron tempered glass and a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame, ensuring complete waterproofing and rust resistance. This rugged build withstands extreme weather, including hail, blizzards, and strong winds, providing durability that extends up to 25 years.
An upgraded 8A charge controller enhances charging efficiency by up to 30% compared to standard controllers. It employs a three-stage charging process to protect batteries from overcharging and short circuits, while two indicator lights keep you informed of the charging status.
Installation is straightforward thanks to pre-drilled mounting holes and included hardware. The 360-degree adjustable bracket allows you to tilt the panel for maximum sun exposure, improving power generation wherever it is placed, from RVs to electric fences.
Users praise its dependable performance in maintaining batteries during storage and extended use. The product offers excellent value by combining efficiency, durability, and ease of use, making it suitable for anyone needing a steady solar energy source for 12V batteries.

Pros

• High solar conversion efficiency that enhances charging speed.
• Robust waterproof and rustproof design for long-lasting outdoor use.
• Smart 8A charge controller with protection features and status indicators.

Cons

• Power output is modest at 20 watts, limiting use to smaller battery systems.

With its reliable performance and sturdy build, the SOLPERK Solar Panel Kit stands out as a practical choice for maintaining 12V batteries under varying conditions. It combines ease of installation with intelligent charging control, making it a strong contender for users seeking dependable solar power solutions.

6. ECO-WORTHY 10W Solar Car Battery Charger Maintainer 12V Waterproof Portable

Maintaining your vehicle’s battery can be effortless with the ECO-WORTHY 10W Solar Car Battery Charger Maintainer. Designed to keep your 12V batteries charged even when vehicles remain unused for extended periods, this solar charger offers convenience and peace of mind. Its portable and waterproof structure enables reliable outdoor use in various conditions.
This solar charger is perfect for sustaining the charge of cars, boats, motorcycles, and other vehicles. The integrated indicator light allows you to monitor the charging status easily. Lightweight and compact, it supports hassle-free installation through either a cigarette lighter plug or alligator clips for battery terminals.

The ECO-WORTHY charger features a 10W monocrystalline solar panel that delivers steady trickle charging without overcharging the battery. Its built-in blocking diode prevents reverse current flow, which enhances battery protection during nighttime hours.
An upgraded PCB adds reverse and overcharge safeguards to improve charging safety and efficiency.
Despite limited sunlight, including cloudy weather, the charger continues to generate positive voltage. The frosted surface design eliminates the need for additional film protection, boosting durability.
Installation takes mere minutes and requires no extra tools or setup, making it accessible for all vehicle owners.
Performance-wise, many users have reported stable battery voltage retention even under demanding battery drainage conditions. The charger suits a range of vehicles such as cars, trucks, boats, lawn mowers, trailers, RVs, and utility vehicles. It’s a reliable, cost-effective maintenance tool that helps extend battery lifespan and reduces unexpected failures.

Pros

• Waterproof design suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions
• Easy installation with SAE cable, cigarette lighter plug, or alligator clips
• Advanced protections against reverse charging and overcharging for battery safety

Cons

• Limited 10W power may require longer charging time for larger batteries

Overall, this solar charger maintainer offers reliable battery care for various vehicles. Its combination of durable build, safety features, and adaptability makes it a smart choice for anyone seeking to preserve battery health without frequent manual recharging. It stands out as an efficient option among other solar maintainers in its category.
It stands out as an efficient option among other solar maintainers in its category.

7. SUNER POWER Waterproof 20W 12V Solar Battery Charger & Maintainer

Maintain your vehicle’s battery power effortlessly with the SUNER POWER Waterproof 20W 12V Solar Battery Charger & Maintainer. Designed to provide reliable trickle charging, this solar charger keeps 12-volt batteries charged and healthy, making it a perfect companion for extended outdoor use.
Whether you need a dependable power source for your car, boat, or RV, this solar battery maintainer combines efficiency and smart technology. Its waterproof construction ensures durability in various weather conditions, allowing worry-free battery management.

The SUNER POWER charger features innovative Ultra-Smart MPPT technology, which maximizes energy conversion and improves solar panel efficiency by up to 30%. This technology ensures fast and stable charging for 12-volt batteries, enhancing battery performance and longevity with an advanced 3-stage charging process.
Charging modes for 12V, AGM, and Lithium batteries provide versatility, making it compatible with many battery types, including flooded, gel, and LiFePO4. Setup is straightforward, with pre-designed mounting holes and plug-and-play cables for quick installation wherever power maintenance is needed.
Safety is prioritized with multiple built-in protections such as over-charge, short circuit, and reverse polarity, ensuring safe operation. The intuitive charging level indicators display battery status visually, simplifying battery monitoring during use.

Pros

• Ultra-Smart MPPT technology increases charging efficiency by up to 30%
• Multiple charging modes suitable for a wide range of 12V battery types
• Waterproof, durable design built for outdoor conditions

Cons

• 20W power output may be limited for larger battery systems

Overall, the SUNER POWER Waterproof 20W 12V Solar Battery Charger delivers efficient, safe, and convenient battery maintenance. Its smart features and robust design make it a valuable choice for anyone looking to keep their 12V batteries charged without constant manual intervention.

8. POWOXI-9W-Solar-Battery-Trickle-Charger-Maintainer -12V Portable Waterproof Solar Panel Trickle Charging Kit for

Maintain the power of your vehicle’s battery effortlessly with the POWOXI-9W Solar Battery Trickle Charger Maintainer. Designed for durability and efficiency, this portable solar panel ensures your 12V batteries stay charged using clean solar energy even during extended periods of inactivity. Its waterproof and weather-resistant design makes it ideal for outdoor use in various conditions.
Perfect for cars, motorcycles, boats, and other 12V battery-powered devices, the POWOXI solar charger combines intelligent charging technology with robust construction. Stay confident that your battery remains healthy and ready without the need for constant manual charging or maintenance.

This solar battery charging kit features an upgraded intelligent charge controller that protects your battery from overcharging and electrical faults. It uses high-quality solar silicon materials to achieve energy conversion efficiency between 25% and 30%.
The solar panel is built using high-transparency tempered glass combined with an ABS+PC frame that resists impact and external damage. This sturdy design prevents worries about bending or weather-related wear, making it highly reliable outdoors. Installation is simple: connect either through a car power outlet or alligator clips, offering flexible use options.
Equipped with an LED indicator, you can easily monitor the charging status at a glance. The device is suitable for several battery types including LiFePO₄ and lithium-ion, as well as applications such as tractors, ATVs, and snowmobiles.
Its no-fuss maintenance and waterproof qualities make it a practical solution for everyday battery care and power preservation.

Pros

• Smart internal protection system prevents overcharging and short circuits
• Durable construction with high-transparency tempered glass and ABS+PC frame
• Easy installation with options for cigarette lighter plug or alligator clips

Cons

• 9W output may be insufficient for very large batteries or heavy power demands

The POWOXI-9W solar charger is a reliable investment for maintaining 12V batteries across various vehicles and equipment. Its thoughtful design and protective features deliver peace of mind when leaving batteries unused.

9. Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer 12V Solar

Maintain your vehicle’s battery effortlessly with the Sunway Solar Car Battery Trickle Charger & Maintainer. Designed for convenience and reliability, it harnesses solar power to keep 12V batteries topped up without overcharging. Its compact design fits securely on your windshield or dashboard for continuous charging while parked.
The charger supports a wide range of vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, boats, and RVs, making it a versatile choice. Its simple plug-and-play setup connects through the cigarette lighter socket, while the included suction cup ensures stable mounting. The included LED indicator informs you of the charging status at a glance.

The Sunway Solar charger uses an amorphous solar panel that performs well even under cloudy skies, delivering up to 8 watts of power. It features durable ABS plastic housing and ultra-clear PV glass, adding robustness and efficiency to its build.
It features durable ABS plastic housing and ultra-clear PV glass, adding robustness and efficiency to its build. Its compact size and inclusion of both cigarette lighter adapter and alligator clamps maximize installation options.
It’s designed to protect your battery by preventing reverse charging, thanks to its built-in diode. The device provides a safe trickle charge ideal for maintaining healthy batteries rather than performing full charging. For users who drive infrequently or store vehicles for long periods, this charger helps combat parasitic drain effectively.
While it won’t restore dead batteries, it excels at maintaining charge, extending battery life, and reducing the need for frequent engine starts. Its ease of use combined with practical design makes it ideal for vehicles with a moderate parasitic load.
Compared to higher wattage solar chargers, its simplicity and efficiency keep maintenance hassle-free and cost-effective.

Pros

• Efficient maintenance charging without risk of overcharging
• Durable construction with PV glass and ABS housing for longevity
• Easy installation with cigarette lighter plug and suction cup mount

Cons

• Limited power output unsuitable for charging dead or severely drained batteries

For those seeking a reliable, no-fuss solar charger to maintain their vehicle battery, Sunway’s 12V maintainer offers excellent value. Its thoughtful features and solid performance make it a dependable choice for keeping batteries ready during extended periods of inactivity.

10. 7.5W Solar Battery Maintainer & Trickle Charger, 12V Waterproof Panel

Maintain your vehicle’s battery health effortlessly with the 5W Solar Battery Maintainer & Trickle Charger.
Its waterproof design allows reliable outdoor use in various weather conditions.
Utilizing advanced monocrystalline silicon paired with SmartTrack technology, this charger optimizes sunlight absorption to combat battery drain. Easy to install and highly durable, it suits a wide range of vehicles, ensuring your power sources stay ready when needed.

The 5W solar panel charger delivers a 30% boost in energy conversion efficiency thanks to proprietary SmartTrack technology.
Combining this with premium monocrystalline silicon leads to superior performance, actively maintaining battery charge and preventing downtime. Its integrated 3-color LED system offers clear visual feedback during charging.
Built for rugged use, the panel features 2mm low-iron tempered glass and a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame. It holds an IP68 waterproof rating, allowing it to withstand rain, snow, and wind without compromising function.
Installation is simplified by the included 360° adjustable mounting bracket, suitable for walls, roofs, and uneven surfaces.
Compatibility extends across various 12V battery types including LiFePO4, AGM, and GEL, making it ideal for cars, motorcycles, boats, trucks, pick-ups, and RVs. The smart safety system protects against reverse charging and overvoltage, enhancing battery longevity.
Users praise the solid build quality and efficient charging, noting how it keeps batteries reliable through seasonal breaks.

Pros

• High efficiency with SmartTrack technology for maximized solar intake
• Robust construction using tempered glass and anodized aluminum for all-weather durability
• Universal compatibility with multiple 12V battery types and vehicles

Cons

• Lower power output may require longer charging times for larger batteries

Reliable charging combined with practical features makes this solar battery maintainer a solid choice for preserving vehicle battery health. Its durable build and versatile ease of use provide excellent value for owners looking to avoid unexpected battery failures without complex setups.

Top Car Batteries for Solar Panels: Buying Guide 2026

Capacity and voltage requirements

Understanding the ampere-hour (Ah) rating helps gauge how long a battery can supply power before needing a recharge, which is particularly useful when pairing it with solar panels. Matching the battery’s voltage with that of the solar system ensures compatibility and efficient energy transfer; most small to medium solar setups use either 12V or 24V batteries.
Calculating power needs involves estimating the total watt-hours required by your devices over a specific period, then selecting a battery with sufficient capacity to meet that demand without frequent depletion. Considering these factors can guide buyers toward a battery that maintains steady performance and extends the usability of their solar power system.
When selecting the best car battery for solar panels, paying attention to how well it accepts charge from solar input is key since different batteries vary in their ability to efficiently store solar-generated energy. A battery with a higher charge acceptance rate will replenish faster under solar charging conditions, making it more suitable for off-grid or mobile solar applications. Compatibility with charge controllers also plays a significant role, as a battery must work seamlessly with the solar system’s controller to prevent overcharging and extend battery life.
Compatibility with charge controllers also plays a significant role, as a battery must work seamlessly with the solar system’s controller to prevent overcharging and extend battery life. Additionally, batteries with a low self-discharge rate tend to maintain their charge longer during periods without sun, which reduces maintenance needs and enhances overall reliability. Keeping these factors in mind helps match the battery’s characteristics with the specific demands of solar panel setups while minimizing upkeep and maximizing performance.
The longevity of a battery hinges greatly on its cycle life and depth of discharge, as these determine how many charge and discharge cycles the battery can endure before its performance declines. Batteries designed to handle deeper discharges typically offer extended usability for applications involving frequent energy use and replenishment. Another important aspect is the battery’s resistance to temperature fluctuations since exposure to extreme heat or cold can accelerate wear and reduce efficiency.
Another important aspect is the battery’s resistance to temperature fluctuations since exposure to extreme heat or cold can accelerate wear and reduce efficiency. Choosing a battery with robust temperature tolerance helps maintain consistent performance in various environments. Warranty coverage also plays a significant role in assessing expected service life, offering peace of mind through protection against premature failure.
Generally, batteries backed by longer warranties reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in durability and often correspond to a longer operational lifespan.
When selecting a battery that pairs well with solar panels, physical dimensions and the space you have available play a key role. Batteries come in various sizes, so measuring the area intended for installation can help avoid surprises and ensure a suitable fit.
The weight of the battery also influences portability, especially if you plan to move or reposition the setup frequently; lighter models make handling easier without compromising performance. Installation ease depends on the battery’s design and compatibility with your existing equipment, with options varying from plug-and-play units to those requiring more technical setup. Maintenance demands should be considered to match your willingness and ability to care for the battery over time, as some require regular checks and fluid refills while others offer a more hands-off approach.
Taking these factors into account aids in finding a battery that integrates smoothly into your solar power system while matching your lifestyle and space constraints.
When choosing a power source for solar energy storage, understanding the differences between leadacid and lithiumion batteries can greatly impact performance and longevity. Leadacid batteries have been used for many years and are generally more affordable. They perform well in delivering large bursts of power and are often found in traditional setups.
However, they tend to be heavier and require regular maintenance. On the other hand, lithiumion batteries are lighter, offer higher energy density, and have longer lifespans with less maintenance needed.
These qualities make them a preferred choice for more advanced or space-conscious applications, though their upfront cost is typically higher. For solar panel systems, deep cycle batteries are particularly suited because they can be discharged and recharged many times without significant degradation, which is essential for consistent energy storage and usage. Considering these factors, evaluating the balance between initial investment, maintenance requirements, and expected performance will guide buyers toward the best solution for their solar power needs.
Considering these factors, evaluating the balance between initial investment, maintenance requirements, and expected performance will guide buyers toward the best solution for their solar power needs.
When choosing a car battery suitable for solar panel setups, balancing price with performance is key to making a smart investment. Opting for products that provide long-lasting power and durability without excessive cost can help maintain efficiency in your solar-powered system. Brands with a solid reputation often offer reliable batteries backed by positive customer reviews, which can give confidence in the product’s real-world performance and longevity.
Brands with a solid reputation often offer reliable batteries backed by positive customer reviews, which can give confidence in the product’s real-world performance and longevity. Access to responsive customer support and the availability of replacement parts should also factor into the decision-making process, as these elements contribute to hassle-free maintenance and extend the usability of the battery. Paying attention to these factors will contribute to selecting a battery that meets both your energy needs and practical requirements over time.
A standard car starting battery is not ideal for use with solar panels because it is designed to provide short bursts of high current to start an engine, not for deep and continuous discharge cycles. Solar power systems require batteries that can handle frequent charging and discharging over long periods without degrading quickly. Special batteries, such as deep cycle batteries or lithium-ion batteries, are recommended for solar applications. These batteries are built to deliver consistent power over extended time and have a longer lifespan when used with renewable energy systems.
Battery capacity directly influences the performance of a solar panel car battery system by determining how much energy can be stored and utilized. A higher capacity battery stores more energy collected from the solar panels, allowing the car to run longer and support more power-intensive functions without needing frequent recharging. Conversely, a lower capacity battery limits the energy available, reducing driving range and operational time. Additionally, sufficient battery capacity ensures the system can handle charging and discharging cycles efficiently, maintaining performance and battery lifespan. Matching battery capacity with solar panel output is essential to optimize energy use and overall system reliability.
When pairing a car battery with solar panels, key features to consider include battery type, capacity, and compatibility. Deep cycle batteries are ideal because they can handle repeated charging and discharging cycles, unlike standard starter batteries. Capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), should match your solar panel output and energy needs to ensure efficient storage. Additionally, look for batteries with good cycle life and low maintenance requirements to enhance durability. Proper voltage compatibility with your solar system is crucial to prevent damage and maximize performance. Selecting a reliable, weather-resistant battery also supports long-term use in varying conditions.
Deep cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide a steady amount of power over an extended period, making them ideal for solar panel systems. Unlike regular car batteries, which deliver short bursts of high current to start engines, deep cycle batteries can be discharged and recharged repeatedly without significant damage. This durability ensures a reliable energy storage solution for solar setups, supporting consistent power supply. Additionally, deep cycle batteries typically have thicker plates and a more robust build, enhancing their lifespan in renewable energy applications. Regular car batteries, on the other hand, are not optimized for deep discharges and may degrade quickly if used in solar systems. Therefore, deep cycle batteries are generally a better choice for solar energy storage.
The best type of car battery for use with solar panels is a deep cycle battery. Unlike regular car batteries designed for short bursts of high energy to start an engine, deep cycle batteries are built to provide a steady amount of power over a longer period. This makes them ideal for storing energy generated by solar panels. Among deep cycle batteries, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and lithium-ion batteries are popular choices. AGM batteries are maintenance-free and handle discharge cycles well, while lithium-ion batteries offer higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and lighter weight, though at a higher cost. Choosing the right battery depends on budget, energy needs, and system design.
Choosing the best car battery for solar panels involves balancing durability, capacity, and compatibility with your solar setup. While traditional lead-acid batteries may be cost-effective, lithium-ion options typically offer longer life spans and better efficiency, making them suitable for consistent solar energy storage. However, these batteries can come with higher upfront costs and specific maintenance needs.
This type of battery is ideal for individuals seeking reliable power storage for off-grid or backup energy systems connected to their vehicles. Potential buyers should weigh factors like budget, usage frequency, and environmental conditions before deciding.
Overall, selecting a battery that aligns with your solar panel’s output and energy demands will ensure dependable performance without unnecessary expense or complexity.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Finding the right helmet for snowmobiling can be challenging, especially when safety, comfort, and weight all matter. A reliable helmet…
Read More Best Carbon Fiber Snowmobile Helmet That Will Blow Your Mind
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Handling ceramic tiles can be tricky, especially when it comes to drilling holes without cracking or damaging them. Using the…
Read More Best Drill Bits For Ceramic Tiles That Never Fail You!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Many professionals find that clearing leaves, debris, and dust quickly and efficiently can be a challenge, especially when working on…
Read More Best Commercial Handheld Blower That Outperforms All Others
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Many homeowners and gardeners find yard cleanup challenging, especially when dealing with leaves, grass clippings, and debris that gather after…
Read More Best Corded Electric Blower That Will Blow You Away!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Choosing the right motorcycle helmet can be challenging, especially when balancing safety, comfort, and price. A quality full face helmet…
Read More Best Affordable Full Face Motorcycle Helmet You Need Now
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Many people struggle with finding a reliable drill that offers both power and convenience without being tethered to a cord….
Read More Best Battery Powered Drill You’ll Wish You Owned Today
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. texasdiamondgarage.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
Home | About Us | Contact Us | Affiliate Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
Copyright © 2026 Texas Diamond Garage. All Rights Reserved. Developed by: KEA Estudio

source

Developer of Massachusetts offshore wind farm sues to stop turbine manufacturer from walking away  AOL.com
source

Voltalia (ENXTPA:VLTSA) Valuation Check As Bolobedu Solar Farm Reaches Full Commissioning  simplywall.st
source

Topic: Solar photovoltaic energy in France  Statista
source

source

Lincolnshire residents are “very upset” by the approval of the UK’s largest solar farm on their doorstep.
The Springwell Solar Farm will cover 3,163 acres near the villages of Metheringham, Scopwick and Navenby, and will potentially be in operation for up to 40 years.
The 800MW project would be able to generate more energy than any other solar farm, and will come online in 2029.
Spilsby horse centre’s urgent appeal for help as rising costs put ‘real strain’ on charity
University faces financial ‘challenges’ as multi-million deficit revealed
The government’s decision, which was released on Wednesday (April 8), was widely-expected but has proved unpopular with local residents.
One small business owner in Navenby told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Everyone is very upset about it – there have been signs protesting about it everywhere for months.
“It will ruin the rural landscape of the Cliff Villages. I’ve not met a single person who wants it.
“It’s not come as a surprise. It feels like it was already decided months ago – the consultation was a foregone conclusion.”
The project would be able to power 180,000 homes – around half of the total number in Lincolnshire – which the government says is essential as the energy becomes more unpredictable.
Another Navenby shopkeeper, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “If only we paid farmers more, this wouldn’t be an issue. Why wouldn’t they take the money if they’re struggling to make a profit?
“The big problem happens at the end – do all the panels and cables get removed properly and the fields restored?
“It would be better to see these in dead space such as beside motorways or above car parks.”
Sid Hamish, who lives in Canwick and was visiting Scopwick, said: “It’s going to ruin the landscape – it’s too much what with other solar farms planned near Nocton and Bracebridge.
“Farmers’ land is more important for growing crops.”
Another Navenby resident said: “I’m not happy about it at all. It will look an eyesore, turning green fields into solar panels.
“It won’t really change the village itself, but the countryside will look very different.”
A spokesperson for developers EDF power solutions and Luminous Energy said: “As the project moves forward, we remain committed to working collaboratively with local communities and partners to reduce the impacts of construction while delivering long-term benefits for the region.”
Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: “We are driving further and faster for clean homegrown power that we control to protect the British people and bring down bills for good.
“It is crucial we learn the lessons of the conflict in the Middle East – solar is one of the cheapest forms of power available and is how we get off the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets and secure our own energy independence.”
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk unveiled what might be his grandest overarching vision for where he sees his companies headed.
The two-legged quarterfinal matchups will take place April 7-8 and 14-15.
"Usyk has earned the right to do whatever he wants," said the 21-year-old Itauma, "but I don't think it's correct for Rico to be able to fight for the world title in his first fight."
The Trump administration's position on refunding all tariffs declared illegal by the Supreme Court has been slow to take shape. But a new court filing this past week seemed to acknowledge that a wide array of duties will eventually be eligible for refunds.
The battle for AI supremacy turns political as the president doubles down on Palantir's "great war fighting capabilities" against Michael Burry's bearish bets.
For all that Tiger Woods has done on the golf course, his life outside the ropes continues to spiral.
"WWE Raw" featured a blockbuster night of big names at Madison Square Garden, with CM Punk, Roman Reigns, Gunther and more make their presences felt.
"There's too much involved," Harry Trombitas said. "There are too many ways people can get caught."
Local time in Melbourne, Australia, is 15 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern time zone. So kickoff for the 49ers-Rams game will be at 10:35 a.m local time on Friday, Sept. 11.
Nate Tice and Matt Harmon join forces to buy & sell NFL teams and their offseason plans so far.

source

View or submit an obituary
Videos, Podcasts, & Gems
Stories, scores, & more
Support local journalism
The latest local listings
Engagements, weddings, anniversaries
Shirts, Mugs, & More
What can we help you find?

QUINCY–A special permit request for a solar power project along Wisman Lane near North 42nd Street is on the city council agenda for Monday, April 13.
Alderman Mike Adkins (R-Ward 3) made a motion at the last city council meeting to reject the plan commission’s recommendation for the project. Alderman Kelly Mays (R-Ward 3) offered the second of that motion.
The full council voted to table the issue for another week.
Quincy, IL Solar 5, LLC has requested a special use permit to allow for the construction and operation of a three-megawatt community solar project at 3909 Wisman Lane.
It is outside city limits near Ward 3, but is close enough to be under the purview of the Quincy City Council.
It is zone M3 (planned industrial district).
After Adkins and Mays made their motion, Eric Entrup (R-Ward 1) referenced past discussions on the project.
“Is there any new evidence to go against the plan commission’s decision?” Entrup said. “Just curious.”
It was then that Mayor Linda Moore called on the city’s planning director, Jason Parrott, to address the council.
While they waited for Parrott to walk up to the podium, Mays interjected.
“As a council, we have yet to approve a special use permit for solar panels,” Mays said. “That’s why.”
“If you looked at the sites that have been proposed for these, this would really be one that fits the most with our code,” Parrott said. “Because when we added our solar ordinance, we established that as a special use permit, it could be located in an Industrial (district). Anything else would require a special permit for planned development.”
Parrott went on to explain that the area offers no residential opportunity because, with industrial zoning, there is no construction of residential.
“So that’s why we wanted to gear these towards industrial,” he said. “The only other one that has been considered since we adopted that ordinance was the one that was in the rural area at 36th and Ellington.”
But Mays said she thought if it was the right zoning then a project wouldn’t need a special use permit.
Parrott said there’s nowhere in Quincy that is a permitted use by right.
“The next phase is the special use permit,” Parrott explained. “That is where we would intend these to go toward industrial. Anything else, if it’s residential, if it’s rural, if it’s commercial, then they would have to get a special permit for planned development, which requires conditions you could have placed on it.
“These-the only condition is-must follow the actual code because if we wanted a solar farm, we would want it to be industrial versus other types of property.”
Entrup raised the question of possible legal action against the city if the council voted against the project.
“I was always told you had to have some sort of new evidence,” Entrup said.
According to City of Quincy Corporation Counsel Bruce Alford, there would have to be a reason why the permit doesn’t meet code standards. For example, if it were detrimental or endangers health.
“We’ll find that out in the first hail storm,” Adkins said.
“I know the hail storm will damage the solar panels,” Alford said. “I don’t know if it endangers the neighbors or public health.”
Alford said he understood Adkins’ concerns about potential damage, but, up until the night of the meeting, was unaware of Adkins’ issue with the project.
“We’re going to need a reason why one of those seven conditions (in the ordinance) isn’t met,” Alford said.
Parrott added that the item was part of the most recent plan commission meeting, where no one spoke on this particular project.
“Because I did not anticipate anything on this, the individual who is representing this company was willing to fly out to be here, I told them not to,” Parrott said. “I would ask to table for a week, so that she can fly out and answer questions.”
Adkins and Mays agreed to withdraw their motion to reject the proposal, and the full council, on a unanimous voice vote, agreed to give it a week.

Click the Purchase Story button below to order a print of this story. We will print it for you on matte photo paper to keep forever.
Cloudy skies with periods of rain this afternoon. High 76F. Winds SSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
Do you want to receive the Muddy River News newsletter in your inbox every morning at 8:00 AM?
Enter your email address, click “Subscribe,” and don’t forget to check your email to confirm your subscription.
Muddy River News LLC
535 Maine, Suite 4A
Quincy, IL 62301
Copyright © 2026 • Muddy River News • All Rights Reserved • Privacy and Use Policy

source