by Catie Owen | Dec 17, 2025 | Electric Vehicles, Europe, Everything Installer
Segen, a UK-based distributor of renewable energy products, has announced an exclusive six-month distribution partnership with EV infrastructure provider 3ti.
The deal focuses on the Papilio3, a rapid-deploy smart solar EV charging “FastHub” designed to bypass traditional installation barriers like grid constraints and lengthy planning processes.
Infrastructure and training
As part of the collaboration, Segen has installed a Papilio3 unit at its Training Academy and Distribution Centre in Medway, Kent. The facility trains approximately 1,600 individuals annually to address the national shortage of qualified renewable energy installers.
The Papilio3, constructed from an upcycled shipping container, features an integrated 20kWp solar PV array and can charge up to 12 vehicles simultaneously at speeds up to 22kW.
Because the unit is portable and free-standing, it requires no planning permission or major groundworks and can be installed in under a day.
James Galloway, Global Product Director at Segen Ltd, said:
“As a leader in the renewables sector, we are committed to setting an example by using innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint. At the same time, we aim to ensure that students have a rewarding and positive experience during their time at the Academy. Providing a convenient and sustainable onsite EV charging solution will help us achieve that goal.”
Market impact
The partnership aims to provide installers with a solution for commercial clients in sectors such as logistics, retail, and business parks. By utilising patented power-management technology, the FastHub operates using a site’s existing electrical infrastructure, removing the need for costly grid upgrades.
Beyond its charging capabilities, the hub includes integrated lighting, CCTV, and a roof cover for weather protection.
While currently serving Segen’s staff and trainees, the hub is also open to the public and nearby businesses, creating an additional revenue stream. The Papilio3 is currently available to order exclusively through Segen.
[Image credit: 3ti]
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by Catie Owen | Dec 17, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Press Release
GoodWe is expanding the ET Series three-phase hybrid inverter with new models ranging from 80kW to 100kW, developed specifically for commercial and industrial (C&I) applications.
As a core product of GoodWe’s C&I energy storage portfolio, the ET 80–100 kW delivers higher efficiency and full-chain flexibility through enhanced power harvest and strong backup capabilities.
Seamless integration with GoodWe’s BAT 112 kWh high-voltage battery and Static Transfer Switch 125 kW (STS) positions the ET 80–100 kW as a leading choice for almost all C&I scenarios.
Full-chain flexibility & efficiency from DC to AC Side
The ET 80-100kW significantly increases energy harvest even in complex C&I scenarios, offering eight MPPTs with up to 42A input current, or 21A per string, making it compatible with M10 and M12 module sizes. AC and DC coupling offer great flexibility and efficiency.
AC coupling is ideal for adding storage to existing PV systems without changing the original PV wiring, MPPTs, cables or PV inverters, while DC coupling reduces conversion stages to cut energy losses and improve round-trip efficiency by more than 2%. Together, they enable flexible system configurations for different project requirements.
The ET 80-100kW has been engineered for flexible configurations and easy expansion over the project lifetime. Dual 110A independent battery inputs provide up to 220A charge and discharge capability, delivering the high power required for C&I peak-shaving, backup and fast response to load changes.
All-round safety, ultimate reliability
Safety and reliability are built into every layer of the hybrid inverter. The ET Series has been awarded the TÜV Rheinland Certificate for Comprehensive Environmental Adaptability, demonstrating its ability to operate reliably in challenging outdoor conditions.
The inverter features a smart fan reversal feature that automatically reverts direction of airflow during low power operation, reducing dust accumulation and corrective maintenance.
The ET Series inverter offers advanced features such as Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI 3.0) and Rapid-Shutdown Device (RSD) 2.0 for enhanced PV-side safety.
Terminal temperature monitoring on both AC and DC connections helps prevent overheating and ensures safe operation. Additional protections, including PV reverse polarity protection and ISO protection, guard the system from risks.
The smart DC circuit breaker option can be selected on a case-by-case basis and adds another layer of protection. It automatically trips in the event of reverse polarity, DC terminal over-temperature or internal short circuits, quickly isolating faults to protect both equipment and personnel.
Backup power and flexible expansion for diverse C&I scenarios
When combined with GoodWe’s STS 125kW, the ET 80-100kW delivers UPS-level switching with a transfer time of less than 4 ms, helping critical loads continue operation through grid disturbances without interruption.
The advanced smart port design of the STS 125kW supports multi-purpose use of a single port, including generator start-stop control and flexible switching between generators and large loads.
When paired with GoodWe’s high-voltage BAT 112kWh batteries, the ET 80-100kW forms an easy-to-deploy, optimally matched storage solution. This pairing allows the battery to discharge close to its maximum capacity and ensures high power performance.
As a truly scenario-ready solution, the ET 80–100kW is designed to serve a wide range of C&I sites. Ultra-low noise operation below 60dB enhances user comfort in noise-sensitive environments such as business parks, office campuses and public facilities.
Reverse rotating fans support dust removal and easy maintenance, making the inverter well-suited for dusty outdoor and industrial environments. The continuous peak output power (without grid) of 110 % and 150 % peak output for 10 seconds ensures strong performance with demanding and uneven C&I loads, including motors, compressors and other impact loads.
For larger projects, the ET 80–100kW can be paralleled in systems of up to 15 units via the SEC3000C smart energy controller. SEC3000C also enables mixed-parallel operation of the ET 80–100kW with GoodWe grid-tied inverters, giving more flexibility to expand with storage.
With STS 125kW, BAT 112kWh battery and SEC3000C, the ET Series 80–100kW offers a safe, efficient and flexible C&I energy storage solution that is ready to grow with customers’ future needs.
[Images credit: GoodWe]
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by Catie Owen | Dec 17, 2025 | Europe, Press Release, Storage
Press Release
In the capacity market auction held in December 2025, R.Power was awarded capacity contracts for five battery energy storage projects with a combined capacity of 1,012 MW and 4,032 MWh.
This further strengthens the company’s position as a leading provider of large-scale energy storage solutions in Poland.
R.Power announces new long-term capacity agreements for five utility-scale battery energy storage projects.
The portfolio includes Dzięgielewo with a capacity of 300 MW and 1,200 MWh, Czekanów with 300 MW and 1,200 MWh, Jawiszów with 202 MW and 808 MWh, Wysoka with 202 MW and 808 MWh, and Wrzosowa with 8 MW and 16 MWh, totalling 1,012 MW and 4,032 MWh. These projects will support the stability of an increasingly renewable power system and enhance the long-term security of electricity supply in Poland.
This outcome builds on R.Power’s successes in previous capacity market auctions. In 2024 the company had already secured contracts for four major BESS projects. These include Herby (5 MW and 10 MWh), Jedwabno (150 MW and 300 MWh), Tursko Wielkie (250 MW and 1 000 MWh), and Gdańsk (250 MW and 1 000 MWh).
Combining all BESS projects with capacity contracts secured, R.Power portfolio in Poland amounts to nine projects with a total capacity of 1 667 MW and 6 342 MWh.
“Reaching a total of around 6.3 GWh of contracted battery storage capacity marks an important moment for R.Power and for the Polish energy system. The scale of our storage portfolio now positions us among the leaders of the emerging BESS market.
“At the same time, we are seeing significant advances in battery technology, which enable the development of increasingly large and complex projects. We remain fully committed to delivering the flexibility solutions that the power system urgently needs,” said Przemek Pięta, CEO and co-Founder of R.Power.
[Image credit: R.Power]
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by Catie Owen | Dec 16, 2025 | Europe, Innovation
Italy has allocated over 1.1GW of solar capacity in a landmark tender reserved explicitly for projects that comply with the European Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA).
The results, published by the energy agency Gestore dei Servizi Energetici (GSE), reveal a highly competitive market ready to support European industrial capacity.
The tender, part of the transitional ‘FER X’ regime, required projects to use modules meeting strict EU manufacturing standards, effectively excluding Chinese-origin components.
Despite these supply chain constraints, demand was robust: 157 applications were submitted, totalling 1.84GW, with 88 projects ultimately securing support.
Competition
The selection process was driven entirely by price reductions, highlighting a market willing to squeeze margins to secure capacity. Successful applicants offered an average discount of 27.696% against the base operating price, with a maximum registered strike price of €73/MWh.
The most aggressive bids exceeded a 41% discount. Crucially, 34 projects – totalling 335MW – were deemed technically eligible but failed to secure funding simply because their offered discounts (mostly under 20%) were not competitive enough to enter the quota.
While small and medium installations were numerous, significant capacity was awarded to utility-scale projects exceeding 20MW, with some individual plants surpassing 100MW.
Geographically, the results confirmed a strong polarisation towards Southern Italy. Sicily secured most of the large-scale infrastructure, followed by Lazio, Puglia, and Calabria.
According to the GSE, this reflects the availability of suitable greenfield land and high solar irradiance in these regions.
Next steps
The publication of the rankings triggers a 36-month deadline for developers to bring these plants online. For the wider industry, this tender serves as a critical stress test for the EU’s solar manufacturing ambitions.
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by Catie Owen | Dec 16, 2025 | Europe, Innovation
EcoFlow has announced full compatibility between its advanced home energy ecosystem, including the EcoFlow PowerOcean Single-Phase system, and Intelligent Octopus Flux, Octopus Energy’s smart solar-and-battery tariff.
This integration builds on EcoFlow’s existing built-in support for the Octopus Agile and Octopus Flux tariffs in the EcoFlow app.
With the latest upgrade, customers can now connect to Intelligent Octopus Flux, allowing Octopus to automatically manage their EcoFlow system for optimised charging, exporting, and savings.
Once connected through the Octopus app, the Intelligent Octopus Flux tariff assumes complete control of the system’s charging and discharging behaviour. It charges the battery during the most affordable import windows, exports energy during high-peak-rate periods, and helps reduce daytime reliance on the grid.
EcoFlow stated that this “hands-free optimisation increases monthly savings, boosts export income, and delivers a faster and more predictable return on investment for households with solar and a battery.”
Craig Bilboe, EcoFlow’s Country Manager UK, IE, & ANZ, said: “Customers have been asking for EcoFlow to integrate with Intelligent Octopus Flux, and we’re thrilled to deliver it. EcoFlow already supported Agile and Flux within our app, but adding Intelligent Flux brings a new level of automation, safety-led optimisation, and financial benefit to UK households.”
The PowerOcean Single-Phase system, which forms a key part of the compatible ecosystem, features long-life LFP battery technology with more than 6,000 cycles, a dedicated fire prevention module, and a multi-layered battery management system.
Its IP65-rated design supports reliable outdoor installation, and the system offers a 15-year warranty. The system’s capacity is expandable up to 45kWh.
The company concluded that with full Intelligent Octopus Flux compatibility now live, users gain a “fully automated, high-efficiency, high-safety energy ecosystem that actively works to lower bills and enhance home energy returns.”
[Image credit: EcoFlow]
by Catie Owen | Dec 16, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar
TotalEnergies and Google have entered into a 21-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to supply certified renewable power to Google’s data centre operations in Malaysia.
The agreement will provide a total volume of 1TWh, equivalent to 20MW, sourced from the Citra Energies solar plant located in the northern Kedah province.
The Citra Energies solar farm, scheduled to begin construction in early 2026, was awarded to a partnership between TotalEnergies (49%) and its local partner MK Land (51%) by the Malaysian Energy Commission in August 2023 under Malaysia’s Corporate Green Power Programme (CGPP).
This PPA extends the collaboration between the two companies, following a similar agreement announced in November for renewable power supply to Google’s data centres in the United States.
Giorgio Fortunato, Head of Clean Energy & Power, Asia Pacific, Google, stated, “We’re thrilled to build on our collaboration with TotalEnergies in Malaysia. This agreement is a key part of our strategy to make meaningful investments that benefit the economies where we operate.
“By enabling this new clean capacity, we are supporting local growth of the electricity system hosting our infrastructure.”
The deal aligns with Google’s strategy to introduce new, clean energy capacity to the grid systems where its operations are located.
Sophie Chevalier, Senior Vice President Flexible Power & Integration at TotalEnergies, commented on the development, saying, “We are delighted to strengthen our collaboration with Google through this agreement to supply renewable electricity to their new data centre in Malaysia.”
The power supply agreement is slated to take effect once the project reaches its Financial Close, which is anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.
by Catie Owen | Dec 15, 2025 | Europe, Storage
Press Release
AlphaESS, a global leader in energy storage solutions and a BloombergNEF Tier 1 certified manufacturer for Q4 2025, has formally signed a cooperation agreement with EPC partner Eltodo a.s. to deliver a combined 320MWh large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) across two strategic sites in the Czech Republic: BESS Chvaletice and BESS Kladno.
Once completed, the projects are set to become the largest Stand-alone energy storage installations in the country, marking a significant step forward in the Czech Republic’s energy transition and grid modernisation efforts.
Aster 5000 deployed at scale to support national grid stability
Under the agreement, AlphaESS will supply 46 units of Aster 5000 for the Chvaletice site and 18 units of Aster 5000 for the Kladno site. The systems will primarily support frequency regulation and other grid ancillary services, enhancing the reliability, flexibility, and responsiveness of the regional power network.
Project background and application needs
As the Czech power system undergoes rapid transformation, the demand for flexible grid regulation resources is steadily increasing.
With renewable energy capacity expanding quickly and traditional balancing units being gradually phased out, the customer has chosen to deploy AlphaESS large-scale energy storage systems to provide fast frequency regulation, stabilise grid frequency, and deliver key ancillary services such as voltage support and reserve capacity.
These large-scale BESS installations also strengthen regional grid resilience, mitigate fluctuations caused by solar and wind generation, and enable higher renewable energy penetration.
Driven by these core needs, the Chvaletice and Kladno energy storage projects were developed to provide essential flexibility and stability support for the Czech grid.
A collaboration built on technical expertise
To meet the demanding requirements of the Czech grid, AlphaESS is supplying the Aster 5000, a 5MWh liquid-cooled energy storage system designed for reliability, rapid deployment, and long-term grid support.
The system features a fully integrated 20-foot design that combines the battery system, BMS, EMS, and fire-protection system into a single container, significantly reducing onsite installation and commissioning time while enabling fast, large-scale rollout.
The Aster 5000 is built with a comprehensive multi-layer safety architecture that ensures robust protection from the cell level to the system level. Its liquid-cooling design, advanced thermal management, and coordinated protection mechanisms deliver stable operation even under demanding grid-side conditions.
To guarantee delivery quality, every unit undergoes a full factory acceptance test (FAT) before shipment, a level of rigor rarely seen in large-scale energy storage manufacturing.
In addition, the system incorporates cell-level bi-directional active balancing, enhancing operational efficiency and extending system lifetime by more than 10%.
This makes the Aster 5000 ideally suited for long-duration grid applications and large commercial and industrial scenarios that require high performance and strong operational resilience.
Eltodo a.s., acting as the EPC, will oversee site development, civil engineering, and project execution. The combined expertise ensures high technical robustness, rapid delivery, and long-term operational reliability.
A strategic milestone for AlphaESS in Europe
With a growing portfolio across the EU region, the Chvaletice and Kladno projects reinforce AlphaESS’s position as a leading global supplier of utility-scale energy storage solutions.
“These projects not only mark a major milestone for the Czech Republic but also reflect AlphaESS’s expanding role in enabling grid modernisation and renewable energy integration across Europe,” said Alfred, CEO of AlphaESS. “We are proud to work with Eltodo and support the country’s transition toward a resilient, low-carbon energy future.”
[Image credit: AlphaESS]
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by Catie Owen | Dec 15, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Visiolar has divested a 95MWp utility-scale ready-to-build (RTB) solar PV asset in Brandenburg, Germany.
The single photovoltaic installation was acquired by Sunovis, a platform company owned by Brookfield. Financial advisory firm Capcora exclusively executed the sell-side M&A mandate for the transaction.
The project has achieved full RTB status, and construction is set to commence immediately following the acquisition.
Dr. Janis Meyerhof, CEO at Visiolar, said:
“We are very pleased to have successfully completed the sale of this landmark project with a capacity of 95MWp. The transaction reflects the strength of our development platform and our commitment to bringing high-quality renewable-energy assets to market, even in a challenging environment for stand-alone PV in Germany.
“We look forward to seeing the project realised under its new ownership and to continuing to scale our pipeline across the region.”
The acquisition itself represents one of the larger stand-alone PV assets recently changing hands in the German market, where smaller, fragmented project structures are more common and investor selectivity has increased due to challenging market conditions.
This was acknowledged by Henning Prigge, Director at Capcora:
“This transaction stands out in an increasingly demanding German PV market, where completing a sale of a stand-alone, ready-to-build project requires deep market knowledge and industry network as well as disciplined preparation and an efficient, investor-oriented process.”
The sale highlights both the robustness of the project’s development and the appetite for German solar opportunities. Markus Renz, Managing Director at Sunovis, added:
“This acquisition represents an excellent addition to our growing renewable-energy portfolio in Germany. We remain committed to expanding our footprint in the German solar market and to contributing meaningfully to the country’s energy transition.”
by Catie Owen | Dec 15, 2025 | Everything Installer, Innovation
UL Solutions has announced the certification of Voltage Energy Group’s full-system Electrical Balance of System (EBOS) solution for 2kV PV cable applications.
The certification, awarded under UL 9703, covers the company’s LYNX, IBEX, IBEX PLUS, and ALEX product series.
This move addresses a growing trend in utility-scale solar projects to shift from 1,500 VDC to 2kV system designs, which are being evaluated to increase energy yield, reduce capital expenditure (CAPEX), and improve long-term reliability.
The certification confirms that Voltage Energy’s 2kV EBOS system successfully completed UL Solutions’ verification testing for 2kV system requirements. This makes Voltage Energy one of the first EBOS solution providers to achieve system-level certification for a 2kV architecture.
Angel Lopez, Director of Quality at Voltage Energy, stated, “Receiving UL certification for our 2kV full-system EBOS solution reflects our commitment to delivering solutions that help the industry scale next-generation PV designs.”
“Moving to 2kV is not just a component upgrade. It requires coordinated progress across the value chain, with modules, inverters, and EBOS validated together, supported by aligned standards and cross-testing that reduce variability in field deployment.”
Evan Xiao, UL Asian regional GM, said: “UL Solutions is striving to support our customers to explore new innovations and safeguard the launch into the market.”
Xiao added, “Unified system validation and repeatable installation practices are essential to scaling the 2kV ecosystem.
Voltage Energy’s certification demonstrates continued investment in system integration and verification, and it provides the market with a clear reference point for evaluating reliable 2kV deployments.”
Following the certification, Voltage Energy plans to continue supporting engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms and developers with design collaboration, technical onboarding, and training, to help teams adopt consistent engineering and installation approaches for 2kV projects.
[Image credit: Voltage Energy]
by Catie Owen | Dec 12, 2025 | Americas, Storage
Press Release
Trina Storage, a global leader in energy storage, announced its expanding strategic partnership with Lightshift Energy (Lightshift), a leading US developer, owner, and operator of energy storage systems. This partnership will deliver a portfolio of energy storage projects totalling more than 1GWh across the United States.
The portfolio will utilise Trina Storage’s Elementa 2.0 & 2.5 energy storage solution, which is engineered for high efficiency, intrinsic safety, and dependable performance under diverse operating conditions. These installations will support utilities and local communities through enhanced grid stability, peak-load management, and flexible capacity, as increased power demand and extreme weather threaten grid stability nationwide.
The partnership will strengthen Lightshift’s unique position deploying fleets of distribution-connected batteries, enabling fast, scalable delivery and direct support for load growth while improving reliability and generating significant savings for Lightshift’s customers.
Trina Storage and Lightshift have previously demonstrated successful collaboration and strong execution, including four projects in Groton, Holden, and Paxton, Massachusetts in 2024. During a Northeast heatwave, Trina Storage commissioned two sites ahead of schedule, providing critical capacity to local utilities during periods of elevated demand.
These results highlighted the effectiveness of coordinated planning, responsive delivery, and consistent system performance in the field.
The continuing partnership and large GWh portfolio highlight Trina Storage’s expertise in US energy storage project engineering, certification, commissioning, and operations. Supported by regional teams and partners, the company delivers local system integration, EMS coordination, grid testing, and onsite commissioning, ensuring efficient project execution and reliable performance.
“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Lightshift through this significant milestone,” said Doug Alderton, Head of Sales, Trina Storage North America. “Our earlier joint projects demonstrate what our strong partnership can accomplish under demanding conditions.
Trina Storage is dedicated to delivering more reliable, flexible energy storage to communities across the US and we look forward to supporting Lightshift in making our shared vision a reality.”
“Lightshift is committed to scaling high-value storage assets that support the reliability and evolution of the US power system,” said Mike Herbert, Managing Partner at Lightshift Energy.
“We are proud to continue our work alongside Trina Storage on projects that advance our strategy and reflect our continued focus on delivering solutions that strengthen grid resilience, address load growth, and provide consistent, high-quality performance for the customers and communities we serve.”
As Trina Storage further grows its presence in North America, this expanded partnership highlights the company’s long-term commitment to supporting secure, efficient, and resilient energy infrastructure for the future.
[Image credit: PRNewsfoto/Trina Storage]
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by Catie Owen | Dec 12, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
RWE has commissioned several new solar farms along the A44n motorway in North Rhine-Westphalia, following approximately eight months of construction. The facilities have a total installed capacity of 86.5MWp.
Utilising about 141,000 solar modules, the plants, located on recultivated land at the Garzweiler opencast mine between Bedburg and Jüchen, are expected to generate enough electricity to supply the equivalent of 27,700 German households.
Katja Wünschel, CEO RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, stated that the project demonstrates RWE’s commitment to expansion, adding: “Next year, we will add several thousand solar modules to the project.
“With wind and solar systems side by side, we are building a renewable energy road on recultivated land along the A44n motorway as a blueprint for further projects in the region.”
A second phase is planned for next year, aiming for 19.9MWp across over 30,600 additional solar modules in the Jüchen municipal area. Subject to planning consent, construction could start in the first half of 2026, with commissioning scheduled for the end of 2026.
Dr. Lars Kulik, CTO Lignite at RWE Power, noted that the projects emphasise that “structural change and the expansion of renewables in the Rhenish lignite area are going hand in hand. There is plenty of space in and around our opencast mines that we are also using for renewables projects.”
He added that RWE Power employees are contributing their expertise to the projects, creating “further prospects for our employees here in the region.”
RWE is also building the Bedburg 3 wind farm, a 60MWp, near the new solar sites. RWE now operates nine solar projects in the Rhenish region, with further photovoltaic schemes, such as the Manheimer Bucht solar farm, currently in the planning stages.
[Image credit: RWE]
by Catie Owen | Dec 12, 2025 | Europe, Press Release, Storage
Press Release
Finnish solar energy company Solnet Group and Dutch energy management software (EMS) and battery specialist iwell are teaming up to help businesses across the UK and Europe build smarter, more resilient energy systems in an increasingly volatile market.
Announced today during the trade mission between Finland and the Netherlands, the partnership primarily targets companies in the UK, Netherlands and Germany, where demand for secure, sustainable, and affordable energy solutions is rapidly increasing.
Utilising its deep technical expertise, Solnet’s strong customer network and full-scope capabilities enable the design, engineering and delivery of large-scale solar and battery installations.
Meanwhile, iwell’s battery storage systems and smart energy management software solutions help businesses optimally use their generated energy. By combining these strengths, an integrated solution emerges that enables companies to generate, store, and better deploy their own energy when the grid is congested or electricity prices spike.
Solution for uncertain energy market
The partnership is cited by both companies as coming at a crucial time, as geopolitical tensions and pressure on the electricity grid are establishing a growing urgency in Europe to become less dependent on external factors.
This is being reflected in the increasing number of businesses seeking control over their energy consumption and supply, as well as ways to reduce costs and ensure continuity.
In the Netherlands, the congested power grid has forced businesses and energy companies to be creative with on-site storage and advanced energy management software.
These applications are generating valuable knowledge that other markets, including Finland, can reference. Solnet sees in iwell’s technology and experience as an opportunity to bring this Dutch advantage to the UK and other European markets more quickly.
Jan Willem de Jong, CEO and founder of iwell, says: “Energy is a key factor for the UK’s security, and also the EU in general. The good news for businesses is that the road to affordable energy independence happens to be based on clean energy.
With this collaboration, we can help businesses in the UK, Finland, Germany and Benelux simultaneously to better manage their energy costs and become more independent.”
Integrated approach for businesses
In practice, the partnership means that Solnet becomes the primary point of contact for customers, overseeing both the build and delivery of the solar energy installations. iwell will provide the batteries and energy management software that controls all energy flows.
Customers will receive an integrated solution combining solar panels, battery storage and an EMS, simplifying implementation while delivering a more efficient, well-balanced energy system.
Arttur Kulvik (Chairman Solnet Group) adds: “By combining our technologies, we can help companies manage their energy more intelligently. They are less dependent on peak prices and can better respond to fluctuations in supply and demand. This makes them more resilient in a changing market.”
Both companies aim to finalise a definitive partnership agreement in the first half of 2026.
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by Catie Owen | Dec 11, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar, Press Release
Press Release
Uniper has taken the decision to start construction of Berryhill Solar Farm just north of Dundee, Scotland. The project has been developed jointly with partner Solar2 and Uniper plans to start the construction process as its sole owner.
The site is supposed to have approximately 152,000 solar panels, with the potential to generate 68.8MWp (45MW) – enough renewable electricity to power the equivalent of over 12,500 UK households each year, one fifth of the population of Angus – contributing to the UK’s net zero targets.
Construction is expected to start in early 2026 with power generation due to start later in the year. The District Network Operator (‘DNO’) for this area – Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks – will be responsible for putting in place the 9km medium voltage (MV) cable to connect the solar farm to the grid point of connection at the Charleston substation on the Kingsway in Dundee.
The solar scheme was first granted planning permission by the planning authority (Angus Council) in 2022, modified in 2024, following the submission of plans by Solar2. Once operational, there will be a community benefit fund associated with the project which will be agreed with the applicable local Community Council – Muirhead, Birkhill and Liff Council.
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by Catie Owen | Dec 11, 2025 | Africa, Large Scale Utility Solar, Storage
EDF power solutions has formally joined the Obelisk hybrid energy project in Egypt, acquiring a 20% stake in the project company.
The project, situated in the city of Nagaa Hammadi, near Luxor, is a large-scale facility combining a 1.1GW solar plant with a 100MW/200MWh battery storage system.
The French firm finalised a shareholder agreement with the existing partners: Scatec, a renewable energy solutions provider that holds 60%, and Norfund, the Norwegian investment fund for developing countries, which owns 20%.
Obelisk is set to supply competitive electricity to the Egyptian grid via a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The project’s commissioning is planned in two phases: phase 1 is scheduled for the first half of 2026, with phase 2 following in the second half of the same year.
This initiative supports Egypt’s national objective to achieve 42GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
This transaction represents a further step in EDF power solutions’ development strategy within the country. The company already operates two plots in the Benban solar power plant and is the largest shareholder of KarmSolar, a leading solar utility company.
EDF power solutions is committed to supporting Egypt’s energy transition through renewables, storage, and low-carbon electricity production assets.
Commenting on the development, Bénédicte Regnier, EDF power solutions Executive VP Africa, stated: “EDF power solutions is thrilled to announce this partnership with Scatec and Norfund in Egypt.
After its investment in Benban and in KarmSolar, and alongside with promising development in green hydrogen, EDF power solutions investment into the Obelisk project is another demonstration of its long-standing relationship with Egypt.”
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by Catie Owen | Dec 11, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar, Storage
According to a report from SolarPower Europe, the European Union’s solar power boom has faded, with annual installations contracting for the first time since 2016.
The EU installed 65.1GW of solar capacity in 2025, marking a 0.7% decline from the 65.6GW installed the previous year.
Despite the downturn, the bloc surpassed a mid-decade milestone, reaching an estimated 406GW of total installed solar capacity across the EU by the end of the year, exceeding the 400GW target set in the 2022 EU Solar Strategy.
However, the slowdown is projected to continue through 2026 and 2027, with the annual installation returning to 2025 levels only around 2030, with roughly 67GW. This trajectory suggests the EU will fall short of its ambitious 750GW solar target for 2030.
“The number may seem small, but the symbolism is big,” said Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe.
“This interruption in solar market growth comes at a pivotal moment when acceleration is essential. Solar is now delivering for Europe; 13% of Europe’s electricity was solar powered in 2025. In June we provided the most power out of all other sources in the EU.”
Hemetsberger added that it is “critical that policymakers now implement robust frameworks for electrification, system flexibility, and energy storage to ensure solar leads Europe’s energy transition for the rest of this decade.”
The market faltering is attributed to several factors, including an uncertain post-energy crisis environment that has led to cuts in rooftop support schemes and a perceived softening of energy price pressure on households.
Home rooftop solar, which was responsible for 28% of EU installed capacity in 2023, dropped significantly to account for only 14% in 2025.
In a segment shift, solar farms accounted for over 50% of installed solar capacity for the first time. However, this standalone solar segment faces increasing challenges to profitability, with a rising number of negative pricing hours reducing revenues.
Report highlights:
- Germany and Spain retained their positions as the EU’s largest, driven by utility-scale projects.
- France overtook Italy for the third-largest capacity, propelled by strong commercial and utility-scale expansion.
- Italy’s rooftop sector contracted following the phase-out of support schemes.
- Romania and Bulgaria entered the top 10 for the first time.
- The Netherlands’ ranking dropped significantly.
- Half of the top ten markets – Italy, Poland, Greece, the Netherlands, and Portugal – installed less solar in 2025 than in 2024.
Addressing common EU-level barriers, the report’s policy recommendations focus on redefining energy security around renewable sources, adopting a comprehensive strategy for flexibility, improving permitting procedures, boosting the rooftop solar market, and making solar supply chains more sustainable.
[Graph credit: SolarPower Europe]
by Catie Owen | Dec 10, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
DAS Solar has announced a new cooperation with Hungarian renewable energy company Tiszta Energiák Kft. to supply high-performance photovoltaic modules for an upcoming 18MW ground-mounted solar project in Slovakia.
The installation, scheduled for grid connection in mid-2026, represents a continued expansion of DAS Solar’s market presence within Central and Eastern Europe.
The project will see DAS Solar providing its N-type module series, noting its “high conversion efficiency, strong reliability, and excellent performance in diverse climate conditions.”
The company suggests these characteristics make the product “ideally suited for ground-mounted applications in Slovakia’s rapidly expanding solar sector.”
The 18MW installation is expected to support local and regional sustainability goals by delivering stable, clean power. According to the release, the partnership “underscores their shared ambition to promote high-quality solar solutions across Europe.”
DAS Solar stated it “continues to strengthen its presence in the European market with reliable technologies, scenario-based PV solutions, and long-term partnerships that contribute to the region’s green transformation.”
Tiszta Energiák Kft. is a Hungary-based company with over 16 years of professional experience, focused on developing and implementing PV projects across Central Europe.
by Catie Owen | Dec 10, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar, Everything Installer
JinkoSolar, a global PV and ESS supplier, has commissioned a 9.728MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system at Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Thailand’s largest railway station.
The installation, carried out by the Hiper Smart Consortium, is intended to meet the high and stable electricity demand for the lighting, cooling, and operational systems of the terminal, which serves over 600,000 passengers daily.
The project, developed by the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), incorporates more than 15,000 high-efficiency Tiger Neo TOPCon modules.
The modules were selected for their superior energy yield and high-power density, features necessary to maximise generation on the station’s vast rooftop and address its intensive, 24/7 energy requirements.
Operating under a self-consumption scheme, the PV power directly offsets electricity purchased from the grid, which is projected to reduce the station’s operational costs and enhance its energy resilience. This project represents a strategic scale-up of Thailand’s distributed PV efforts.
Daniel Liu, General Manager of JinkoSolar Indo-Pacific, said: “Powering a national landmark like this railway station with JinkoSolar’s Tiger Neo technology exemplifies how high-efficiency PV directly translates into economic and operational benefits for critical infrastructure.
“This project sets a powerful, replicable blueprint for Thailand’s clean energy transition, and we are ready to support more such transformative initiatives across the region.”
The initiative highlights the company’s role in delivering large-scale, cost-effective renewable energy solutions for high-impact public infrastructure in support of national sustainability goals.
by Catie Owen | Dec 10, 2025 | Large Scale Utility Solar, Oceania, Press Release
Press Release
More renewable energy solutions are coming online in Australia, including battery energy storage. To support the education and training needs of this evolving sector, the TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries launched its inaugural round of competitive Applied Research Grants.
The round attracted 16 proposals from universities, vocational education and training providers, industry, and not-for-profit organisations. Seven projects were selected, and nearly $1.2 million was awarded – exceeding the initial $1 million allocation. Overall, the research will be carried out over 12 months or less.
Successful round one applicants
Australian National University
Australian National University has been awarded $194,252 to develop consumer engagement training to help installers guide consumers through complex energy technology decisions.
CQUniversity
CQUniversity will receive $171,407 to develop safety and recycling training for the battery energy storage system workforce, with a focus on regional Queensland.
Queensland Farmers’ Federation
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation has been awarded $150,000 to fund energy in agriculture training, helping farmers better understand battery options to support their operations.
Queensland University of Technology
Queensland University of Technology will receive $200,000 to review Australia’s lithium-ion battery disposal against international standards to inform battery lifecycle management training.
South Metropolitan TAFE
South Metropolitan TAFE has been awarded $199,694 to review battery energy storage system workforce needs and develop targeted training aligned to job descriptions and tasks.
Sustainable Lithium Cells Australia
Sustainable Lithium Cells Australia will receive $77,633 to develop affordable, scalable second-life lithium battery systems for mobile solar energy use, developing training to support workers to safely assess, build and manage the systems.
TAFE Queensland Commercial
TAFE Queensland Commercial has been awarded $197,200 to create practical training and career pathways to support emerging occupations in Australia’s mining and critical minerals sectors.
The funding will drive the development of innovative training that tackles industry challenges, supporting the Centre to share best practice teaching and learning with TAFEs nationwide, strengthening the vocational education and training system for the benefit of all Australians.
Further Applied Research Grant funding through the Centre will be available in the coming years, with round two opening in January 2026.
To learn more, visit: tafeqld.edu.au/tce-grants
A joint statement from the Queensland and Australian Governments about the round one funding can also be found here: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/104131
Join us at Solar & Storage Live Queensland, 18-19 March, to hear from Queensland Farmers’ Federation’s Andrew Chamberlin, Project Manager – Energy.
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by Catie Owen | Dec 9, 2025 | Africa, Innovation, Video
Solar & Storage Live UK 2025 in Birmingham was the essential industry hub where innovators and the energy value chain convened to explore solutions driving the UK’s energy transition.
A year after his first interview with Solar&StorageXtra, we caught up with Richard Turner, Director of Fundraising for SolarAid, to hear about the charity’s achievements over the last 12 months.
Richard discussed the success of SolarAid’s ‘Light a Village’ project in Kasakula, Malawi, which has achieved 100% electricity access for one of the poorest communities in the world, and explained its potential for bridging the energy gap for millions across sub-Saharan Africa.
“In contrast to mini-grids, this method of utilising solar home systems allows for rapid deployment and is not significantly constrained by geography.”
Talk to us about the success of your Light a Village project in Malawi.
Kasakula is a community situated in Malawi, and it is recognised as one of the poorest in the country, and Malawi is one of the poorest nations globally.
As such, we deliberately selected this location (in conjunction with the Malawian government) to demonstrate that, if 100% electricity access could be provided to one of the poorest places in Malawi, this achievement could be replicated anywhere.
The Light a Village project has been successfully achieved. The project delivers access to electricity for the first time to many residents; before our intervention, less than 1% of the Kasakula community had access to electricity.
This electricity is financed by the residents through affordable fees, despite 97% of the community living below the poverty line. Therefore, the core challenge was devising a sustainable and workable model for this population.
We devoted significant time to consulting with local leaders, engaging the community, and explaining the concept. The model is fundamentally similar to how most people pay for energy: you don’t pay for the cables or the infrastructure in your home, but you do pay for the energy consumed.
Instead of owning a solar system outright, we install one at no cost to the household, and they subsequently pay a modest daily fee, approximately three pence (GBP), which allows them to activate the unit and have access to lighting. They are also able to charge a mobile phone and potentially a radio.
The initial uptake was significant from the very beginning. We encountered a few unforeseen issues; notably, the rats chewing through the cables, which we had not anticipated.
However, we also gained valuable insights. We discovered that many households would position one of their three provided lights outside their home. When asked about this, they explained that it was a protective measure against the local hyenas!
We proceeded incrementally, starting with 500 homes, then scaling up to 2,500, and this year we successfully reached all 8,813 homes, achieving 100% coverage in Kasakula. We consider this to be a truly significant milestone.
Walk us through the technology and systems SolarAid have brought to Kasakula.
The technology we employ features highly efficient solar home systems. This involves a panel, roughly the size of a laptop, connected to a battery unit, which is mounted on an interior wall of the home.
Once a payment has been made, the unit is activated. The user enters a code to activate it, thereby purchasing seven days’ worth of energy.
The system includes lights which also incorporate wireless switches. Each home receives three of these lights. Furthermore, a battery unit allows for the charging of a radio or a mobile phone, as many residents possess mobile phones.
There are various models available, but we like the one made by Omnivoltaic, manufactured in Hong Kong. We appreciate their willingness to collaborate with us on adaptations. Their model was originally developed for retail, but we require it for a service model, necessitating greater longevity.
Naturally, one component requiring future maintenance, likely after three to five years, is the battery; as such, we are looking to implement enhanced batteries.
To ensure consistent service delivery, we have employed community agents, essentially creating local jobs. They receive a small commission for every payment made, which incentivises them to provide excellent customer care. Throughout the project, we found that the optimal number of customers or households for each agent to manage is 100.
We have community agents who deliver a service directly to the community, with one agent assigned per 100 households. Each agent is also equipped with a specific kit. This includes a graphic displaying the initiative: ‘Light a Village, Kasakula, T/A’, where T/A signifies Territorial Authority.
In fact, Kasakula is named after the Chief, Chief Kasakula, who personally installed the very last light in the 8,813th home. Remarkably, the name of the woman in that household was Charity, which we found particularly apt.
How does working with community agents benefit Kasakulan households?
The community agents are highly effective and mind their customers’ needs. If a replacement is necessary, they manage it because the household does not own the system and therefore bears no risk.
If a lightbulb stops functioning or a battery is somehow faulty, it is replaced at no cost. This is what makes the model viable in a community grappling with such high poverty levels. Moving forward, if we can continue to refine these systems and extend their lifespan, the business model becomes increasingly viable.
We believe this holds immense potential, not just for other regions of Malawi, but throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where 600 million people currently lack access to electricity.
What do you think off-grid solar solutions – such as this project – represent for rural communities worldwide?
We believe the impact is enormous – a paradigm shift. The International Energy Agency (IEA) currently forecasts that by the end of the decade, half a billion people in sub-Saharan Africa alone will still lack access to electricity. This approach can fundamentally alter that prediction.
In contrast to mini-grids, this method of utilising solar home systems, allows for rapid deployment and is not significantly constrained by geography. Traditional grid infrastructure, and even mini-grids, often face challenges due to geographical limitations.
Additionally, the initial cost of deployment for our system is relatively low. We estimate the infrastructure cost to be approximately £100 per household, and the system becomes self-sustaining once the communities begin making payments.
We have established partnerships with other solar enterprises across Africa. The government of Sierra Leone and one of our partners have announced a commitment to reach 40,000 households in Sierra Leone – and have secured funding.
We view this as merely the beginning. We intend to share this model and invite other organisations to participate in this solution. We have established an initiative called REAL, dedicated to enabling others to learn how to develop and implement this energy-as-a-service model.
Can you tell us more about the meet-up session you hosted at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025?
The primary benefit of a meet-up session is the opportunity to network and reconnect with people. SolarAid itself originated from the solar sector. It was founded by a solar business called Solar Century (now acquired), which historically contributed 5% of its annual profits to SolarAid.
A significant number of attendees remember that relationship, including many former employees of that company who now work elsewhere.
As SolarAid has gradually become more widely known, this event serves as a central hub for people to convene, learn about one another’s current activities, receive updates on our progress, and hopefully be inspired to share our story with their own contacts – perhaps within their own organisations.
This type of internal recommendation can sometimes be the decisive factor for a company considering adopting SolarAid as its charity partner.
SolarAid is combating poverty and the climate crisis by collaborating with remote communities on sustainable programmes: creating a local market for solar lights that both provides business opportunities and changes lives for the better.
Donate to SolarAid’s “Big Christmas Challenge 2025” here.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live UK? Get your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London – the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Dec 9, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar, Press Release
Press Release
DMEGC Solar has been awarded international professional services firm Aon’s 2025 “China Best ESG Employer” and “Best DE&I Practice Award”.
Aon’s “Best ESG Employer” award aims to acknowledge outstanding companies that advance ESG practices and promote sustainable business development, renowned for its rigorous evaluation system.
The six-month selection process involved research on 204 companies from various industries through questionnaires, employee surveys, and executive interviews, ultimately presenting “Best Employer” and other individual honours to 27 enterprises.
DMEGC Solar has consistently placed high importance on ESG governance, integrating ESG initiatives into its sustainable strategic decision-making. The company drives forward with its dual-core strategy, focusing on magnetic materials and new energy, accelerating its low-carbon transition, and continuously deepening technological innovation and green manufacturing.
It adheres to collaborative development with upstream and downstream partners to build a sustainable supply chain and strategic partnerships. Upholding a people-oriented principle, DMEGC Solar practices the ethos of ” Co-creation, Co-ownership, Co-prosperity and Co-sharing,” striving to create a high-quality, inclusive, and safe working environment for its employees.
These awards reflect the high recognition from various sectors of society for DMEGC Solar’s long-standing commitment to actively implementing ESG principles.
Moving forward, DMEGC Solar will continue to enhance its ESG governance and disclosure systems while driving collaborative progress across the industrial chain to lead the industry towards high-quality and sustainable development.
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