by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 8, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
Italian energy agency GSE has awarded Contract for Difference (CfD) tariffs to European Energy for five solar projects in Italy, totalling a combined capacity of 513MW.
The utility-scale assets are distributed across Sicily, Apulia, and Molise, establishing a portfolio supported by stable revenue frameworks.
The awarded projects, which include large-scale photovoltaic installations ranging from 20MW to 225MW, represent one of the most substantial solar development portfolios currently advancing under the FerX auction scheme.
The CfD mechanism is set to provide each project with a predictable price structure, offering essential revenue stability throughout its operational lifespan.
Alessandro Migliorini, Director and Country Manager of Italy at European Energy, explained: “The auction outcome provides clarity for the next steps in progressing these photovoltaic projects across Sicily, Apulia and Molise. The awarded tariffs offer a stable framework for the development of these projects.”
A key component of this portfolio is the Vizzini solar park in Sicily. This agri-PV installation is designed to integrate agricultural production with energy generation from solar panels.
Upon completion, the Vizzini park is projected to become the country’s largest solar park and the first of its kind in Italy, contributing significantly to the nation’s renewable energy goals.
Thorvald Spanggaard, Executive Vice President and Head of Project Development at European Energy, added: “This project underscores European Energy’s role in advancing Europe’s green transition.”
“The company’s continued commitment to the Italian market is reflected in this development, which supports Italy’s renewable energy ambitions.”
European Energy has a history in the Italian renewable energy sector, having previously developed and constructed solar and onshore wind parks. This includes the Troia solar park, which was completed in 2021 and grid-connected in 2022, holding the title of Italy’s largest solar park at the time.
As of 2025, European Energy has secured or signed 15 CfDs or Power Purchase Agreements across its various markets.
[Image credit: European Energy]
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 8, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
A major overhaul of Great Britain’s electricity grid connection process was confirmed on 8 December by the National Energy System Operator (NESO).
The initiative will prioritise a new pipeline of “shovel-ready” energy projects that are expected to generate £40bn in clean investment annually. The transformation is designed to accelerate progress towards the government’s Clean Power by 2030 target.
The overhaul of the connections process comes after the queue for grid access grew tenfold in five years, reaching over 700GW – approximately four times the nation’s projected need by 2030.
Chris Stark, Head of Mission Control for Clean Power 2030, said: “This overhaul of the connections process is the single most important step we will take towards a clean power system.
“The energy projects our country needs now have the green light to deploy at a pace we haven’t seen for decades.”
The new approach moves from a first-come, first-served model to one that prioritises projects ready to meet Great Britain’s energy and economic needs.
NESO’s official release states that thousands of projects, including wind and solar farms, battery storage, and hydrogen, will join the new pipeline. This includes 283GW of generation and storage capacity and 99GW of transmission-connected demand.
“Transforming the grid connections process is a vital first step in unlocking the capacity needs for a secure, affordable energy transition,” stated Kayte O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer at NESO.
“These changes will cut grid bottlenecks by prioritising ready-to-build projects, giving certainty about when and where they can connect and unlocking billions in clean energy investment.”
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “We inherited a broken system where zombie projects were allowed to hold up grid connections for viable projects that will bring investment, jobs and economic growth.
“To fix this we embarked on ambitious, once in a generation reforms to clean up the queue and prioritise the projects that are ready to help us deliver clean power by 2030.”
The first protected projects scheduled to connect in 2026/2027 will begin receiving formal offers with confirmed connection dates through December and into the new year. Remaining offers to be finalised by Q3 next year.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 5, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Great British Energy (GBE) has released a Strategic Plan, outlining a practical five-year roadmap to accelerate the UK’s transition to renewable power and bolster the nation’s industrial capacity.
The publicly owned energy company’s publication details its priorities to drive investment, support workers, and ensure communities benefit from the energy transition.
Through GBE expenditure between now and 2030, the organisation plans to deliver at least 15GW of clean energy generation and storage assets, which is sufficient to power the equivalent of almost 10 million homes.
This investment is projected to mobilise £15bn of private finance over time through GBE’s long-term partnerships and investments. Furthermore, the plan includes support for over 1,000 local and community energy projects, aiming to expand public participation and local control within the energy system.
The initiative is also projected to support more than 10,000 jobs directly through GBE-backed and funded projects, including in regions historically dependent on oil and gas.
GBE will function as a developer and equity investor, granting the public a sustained stake in clean energy infrastructure. The returns from publicly owned assets will be reinvested into new capacity, jobs, and opportunities across the UK, forming an income-generating portfolio.
The plan sets three priority investment areas to support its mission: GBE Local, focusing on direct community and public service benefits; Onshore Energy, aiming to strengthen grid stability and unlock land-based energy potential; and Offshore Energy, intended to accelerate UK leadership in deep-water offshore wind.
The Strategic Plan provides additional detail on the £1bn “Energy – Engineered in the UK” programme, a major initiative scheduled for formal launch later this month.
This programme is designed to strengthen the UK’s industrial base, support the nation’s Industrial Strategy, and build a resilient, long-term supply chain for clean energy, supporting high-quality jobs nationwide.
In comments on the plan, GBE’s CEO, Dan McGrail, said, “We are proud to be putting public ownership to work, unlocking investment, powering communities, creating jobs, and building an energy system that delivers for the UK.
“This Strategic Plan marks a major milestone in our mission to accelerate clean energy and the industries that support it.”
GBE’s Chair, Juergen Maier, stated, “This plan puts the UK public at the heart of our energy future. By investing in clean power, supporting local projects, and unlocking British industry, Great British Energy will help deliver an energy system that works for everyone.”
Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, added, “We set up Great British Energy to be a national champion that allows us to reap the benefits of Britain’s natural resources. This plan shows what a publicly owned energy company will deliver: an abundance of clean, homegrown energy for British people and thousands of good jobs across the country.”
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 5, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Alight, a Nordic solar developer and independent power producer, has officially commissioned the Lidsø solar park on Lolland, Denmark.
The facility, which is now operational, represents the company’s first asset in the Danish market and is currently the second-largest solar park in the country, boasting an installed capacity of 215 MWp.
The park spans 253 hectares near Rødby Harbour on Lolland. Alight owns and operates the site, which will supply the Danish grid with new renewable energy enabled by a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with DSB, Denmark’s state-owned railway company.
According to the company’s official release, the Lidsø solar park is an important step in Alight’s growth across the Nordics, diversifying its portfolio into a new market with growing demand for renewable energy.
“We are extremely proud to inaugurate one of Denmark’s largest solar parks today,” said Warren Campbell, CEO of Alight. “Lidsø solar park will be an important part of Denmark’s energy transition and is proof that solar power can contribute on a large scale.
“Thanks to long-term Power Purchase Agreements, we can deliver new, additional sustainable capacity to the Danish grid, while strengthening our position as a leading player in the Nordic market.”
The park features approximately 350,000 solar panels. About half of these panels are mounted on trackers, which generate more energy by following the sun’s path.
Furthermore, the facility is designed as an agrivoltaics project, combining energy production with agriculture by having around 1,700 sheep grazing within the park year-round.
On DSB’s sustainability goals, Aske Mastrup Wieth-Knudsen, Head of Sustainability at DSB, said:
“It is crucial for us to contribute to increased production of renewable energy in Denmark… this project contributes to our goal of more train journeys powered by renewable energy with minimal impact on the climate and environment.”
Alight acquired the park from European Energy in March, with the €127 million acquisition financed by SEB and SEK.
[Image credit: Lidsø solar park]
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 5, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar
LONGi and Petronas Group, Malaysia’s state-owned energy company, have formalised a strategic cooperation order focused on advancing renewable energy projects across key Asia-Pacific markets. The partnership aims to support a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Petronas, operating through its clean energy subsidiary, Gentari, provides integrated low-carbon solutions encompassing renewable energy, hydrogen, and green mobility.
According to the announcement, LONGi’s technological capabilities, brand influence, and shared commitment to sustainability closely align with Petronas’s strategic vision.
The collaboration is intended to move beyond a buyer-supplier dynamic. A core focus will involve fostering joint research between LONGi’s Central Research Institute and Petronas’s own research entity.
This alliance is designed to accelerate innovation and co-develop high-level demonstration projects showcasing future clean energy technology.
Regarding the cooperation, Frank Zhao, President of LONGi Asia-Pacific, said: “We are delighted to deepen our partnership with Petronas, a key strategic client in the Asia-Pacific region. This collaboration is built on a foundation of shared vision and relentless pursuit of a sustainable future.
“Through our close communication and technical synergy, we are confident that our high-efficiency products and solutions will provide significant value and support Petronas in achieving its ambitious clean energy goals.”
Looking forward, the two companies plan to deepen project cooperation across multiple Asia-Pacific markets. They will also explore new opportunities in renewables, energy storage, and green mobility, working together toward a net-zero future.
This partnership marks a strategic step in LONGi’s global commitment to building lasting customer relationships and promoting the widespread adoption of clean energy.
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 4, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar, Storage, Video
The future of the UK’s energy sector hinges on a skilled workforce. At this autumn’s Solar & Storage Live UK, we caught up with Sturge Mazzocchi, Head of Solar Careers UK at Solar Energy UK, a key initiative dedicated to meeting the industry’s ambitious growth targets.
With the support of Solar Energy UK, Sturge is driving the programme’s clear vision to guide everyone into solar employment.
In this interview, he details the strategy for supporting recruitment and training, the challenge of securing 15,000 new workers by 2030, and the innovative work being done through the Recruitment Zone and the Installer Training Hub at the show.
“For us to reach our targets, those priority roles need to come mainly from deployment. Once you can fulfil your deployment side… your supply chain follows off the back of that.”
What is the Solar Careers Programme, and how has it evolved since launch?
The Solar Careers programme is a key action stemming from the government and industry solar roadmap, which aims to reach 60GW of solar by 2030. Since its launch, I’d say we’ve become far more crystalline – and by that, I mean clearer – in its vision, which is to guide every person possible into solar careers.
We do that in three principal ways. Firstly, we promote career opportunities to key audiences. We’re very much focused on deployment and maximising the number of qualified people we can get into those roles, primarily to raise awareness of the roles we have.
Secondly, we support recruitment in the area. This isn’t just about awareness but actively getting people into jobs and growing the workforce. And the third part is to promote training opportunities to keep the workforce upskilled and current.
By focusing on these three areas, we are meeting the aims and the vision of the Solar Careers programme.
In your view, what does success look like for the Solar Careers programme?
Given the target of 60GW by 2030, how do we measure the success of the Solar Careers programme by then? In numbers, success looks like an uplift of around 15,000 more people working in the industry.
Our industry needs to grow to 43,000 jobs. At the moment, we have around 20,000 people in the workforce, and by 2035, we need to get to 43,000. That’s an uplift of 23,000 in total.
When designing the strategy for the Solar Careers programme, you need to know exactly how many people you need to grow by per year. It’s quite a difficult forecast to make because there are so many factors that could stimulate that amount of growth. For example, if there aren’t the right specific apprenticeships, how are we going to educate people in the right way?
We recognised that it would take a few years to put these things in place, so in years one and two, we’re starting to make progress. We’re looking to support the growth of the industry by 500 people in year one (2025).
In 2026, we feel we could go to an extra thousand, so 1,500, and then 1,500 by 2027. That gets us to an extra 3,000. From there, you’d be in a position to start ramping up, as much of the necessary infrastructure would be in place. That’d get us to the 15,000 I mentioned.
This is what the runway looks like for the Solar Careers Programme, and we’re monitoring the ways we’re supporting the growth of the industry.
What are some of the biggest challenges the programme has faced so far?
One of our biggest challenges is securing skilled workers for our most in-demand roles.
At Solar Energy UK, we are in a position to mobilise and bring together all the different sectors of the industry, as well as businesses that perform different functions and services. They come together and highlight the most in-demand roles that they may need support fulfilling.
For us to reach our targets, those priority roles need to come mainly from deployment. Once you can fulfil your deployment side – installers, engineers, those sorts of roles – your supply chain follows off the back of that.
Our biggest challenge is essentially developing a skilled workforce. In the domestic and commercial sectors, we mainly need installers, as well as design engineers and project managers. For utility-scale, the main role is operations and maintenance site technicians.
These are the most in-demand roles that we need to grow the industry. Once we can start to fulfil these roles at scale, the rest will follow on afterwards.
What innovations has the Solar Careers Programme developed to encourage interest in the sector?
In terms of innovation, I would say that we’re trying to adopt and use the latest technologies and advancements available at our disposal. But we’ve also created some new functions this year to further our goals.
Our new skills steering group has created standardised job descriptions that have been agreed across businesses. They have an agreed set of roles and responsibilities and required qualifications, which we can then begin to promote as one of the most in-demand roles.
Alongside this, we’ve routes to competence. As part of that, we’ve developed a career map for people coming into the industry. Solar Energy UK has been helping the initiative I’m heading up, Solar Careers UK, to make these. We can then use that to mobilise an audience interested in entering the industry.
We are building a solar talent pool. This addresses the challenge of continuing engagement with interested individuals after their initial interaction, whether through our website or a recruitment event. Instead of relying on them to return unguided, we capture their interest.
How can we continue that engagement, given that they wanted to come into the industry? We ask them to register their interest, and we create a talent pool of people we can communicate directly with, giving them all this guidance over time. We currently have 7,200 people who are interested in joining the industry, which we’ve grown in a short space of time.
We will continue to do as much as we can to meet our vision, which is to guide every person possible into a solar career.
Your partnership with Solar & Storage Live UK has helped establish the Installer Training Hub and the Recruitment Zone. What does this mean for Solar Energy UK?
Firstly, I would really want to thank Solar & Storage Live for working in partnership to put these features on. Without us working together and putting them together each year and providing that platform, it really wouldn’t be possible.
If we look at the Recruitment Zone, across the show’s three days, over 250 candidates will come and meet businesses that have live job vacancies for introductory interviews.
This is really important for us because that’s 250 more people we can promote the different types of jobs, the different technologies, and the different services we have in the industry, and show why it can be an attraction.
For the Installer Training Hub, this addresses the third part of what we aim to deliver: promoting training opportunities and upskilling the workforce.
We’ve got nine businesses in there that are putting on training workshops throughout the three days. There will be over 2,500 installers who will engage with approximately 20-minute workshops and practical installer demos across a range of areas.
We have ground-mount installations, domestic and commercial mount and module installations, battery and inverter technologies, and MCS training, covering the latest fire classifications and how to be certified.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 4, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Press Release
Press Release
BayWa r.e. has successfully completed the sale of two UK solar farms – Clump and Yanel Solar Farm – to Capital Dynamics, an independent global asset management firm specialising in private assets and a leading investor in global green energy.
The projects have both received full planning consent and have a combined capacity of more than 121 MWp, contributing significantly to the UK’s renewable energy generation.
Clump Farm, located in Leicestershire, has an expected capacity of around 77 MWp, with the potential to supply renewable electricity to approximately 19,000 homes each year. Yanel Solar Farm, situated in North Somerset, will provide a capacity of 44 MWp, supplying up to 11,000 households.
Developed under a joint venture with Grüne Energien Solar, the two solar farms have been designed with a focus on improving and protecting the local landscape and environment by improving biodiversity.
With the completion of this transaction, BayWa r.e. continues to strengthen its role as a trusted developer and supplier of high-quality renewables assets across Europe, driving forward the energy transition.
John Milligan, Managing Director of BayWa r.e. in the UK, said: “These projects showcase the powerful results our teams can achieve together. We are proud of the quality and long-term impact of these solar farms and pleased to see them transition to the hands of a strong partner like Capital Dynamics.
“Looking ahead, we remain committed to delivering high-value renewable projects that accelerate the UK’s clean energy transition, in close collaboration with communities and local stakeholders.”
Dr. Daniel Gaefke, COO of BayWa r.e., added: “This transaction builds on a series of successful project sales in recent months, underscoring the strength of our development strategy. The portfolio reflects the scale and excellence we aim to provide – both in the UK and internationally – and highlights our ability to create strategic assets for our trusted partners.”
BayWa r.e. has marked a major year of progress in the UK, reaching a total of 235 MW of consented solar power in 2025, including the company’s first Development Consent Order (DCO) approval for Oaklands Farm Solar Park, and securing planning permission for Redshaw BESS, BayWa r.e.’s largest battery energy storage project in Europe.
The UK development pipeline currently includes over 3.3 GW of onshore wind, solar and battery energy storage projects. BayWa r.e.’s asset operations business in the UK manages over 1.7 GW of solar, onshore wind and BESS sites across the UK and Ireland.
[Image credit: BayWa r.e.]
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 4, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Enso Energy has received development consent for the 190MW Helios Renewable Energy Project following an examination by the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The project will be built in the ceremonial county of North Yorkshire.
The scheme involves the installation of ground-mounted solar arrays, energy storage, and all associated grid connection and infrastructure necessary for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the development. It is designed to generate over 50MW of electricity.
The application for the project, to be jointly developed by Enso Energy and Cero Generation, was accepted for examination on 30 July 2024.
The project completed its examination within the statutory timescale set out in the Planning Act 2008, marking the 102nd energy application out of 169 applications examined to date to meet this deadline.
The Planning Inspectorate highlighted the role of local communities in the process. The examination involved a six-month period during which local people, the local authority, and other interested parties were invited to give evidence to the Examining Authority.
The authority noted that local communities continue to be offered the opportunity to participate in the examination of projects that may affect them.
Before submitting its recommendations to the Secretary of State on 3 September 2025, the Examining Authority affirmed that it considered all local views and the evidence collected during the examination.
“It is an important project to deliver the UK government’s Clean Power 2030 targets and support the UK’s transition to homegrown renewable power,” commented Enso Energy’s Managing Director Bill Rees.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 3, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar, Electric Vehicles
Octillion has announced the successful conversion of one of its three Indian battery system manufacturing factories to facility-wide solar energy, establishing a site that now operates entirely on carbon-free power.
This achievement anchors a larger initiative to make all the company’s India-based facilities carbon neutral via solar power generation by 2027.
Global President of Octillion, Paul Beach, commented on the commitment: “India’s electric vehicle market is accelerating rapidly, and we’re committed to ensuring this growth is truly sustainable.
“By converting our manufacturing to solar power, we’re closing the loop – producing the clean energy storage solutions of tomorrow, using clean energy today. This is just the beginning of our journey toward our goal of carbon-neutral operations across all our India facilities by 2027.”
The Pune facility, which spans approximately 8,200 square meters, generates 3GWh of total annual battery capacity.
Its new rooftop solar installation is set to provide approximately 545MWh of dedicated clean energy annually, fully covering the factory’s entire power requirements. The conversion began in June 2024 and achieved full operational status by July 2025.
Nikhil Parchure, Senior Vice President at Octillion, noted the company’s role: “Accelerating cleaner, more efficient transportation in India is central to our mission as a global battery company.
“With three large-scale battery manufacturing facilities in India… Octillion is uniquely positioned to serve the fast-growing needs of India’s electric vehicle sector… We will continue to advance our efforts in India and globally by providing cutting-edge, safe battery systems, working to leave the least environmental impact possible in the transportation sector.”
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 3, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Innovation
Plans for the UK’s largest floating solar energy project at the Port of Barrow have been approved by Westmorland & Furness Council’s Strategic Planning Committee.
Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s leading port operator, confirmed the decision on Monday 24 November, which marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
The Barrow EnergyDock project involves the installation of a floating solar array of up to 40MWp on Cavendish Dock. This renewable energy source is expected to generate enough electricity annually to power the equivalent of approximately 14,000 homes, with the energy primarily intended for use by the advanced manufacturing sector.
The project aims to help control electricity costs at the port, reduce carbon emissions, and improve energy resilience for local industry.
The installation will feature around 47,000 panels mounted on floating pontoons, fixed at an optimum angle for generation and secured to the dock bed by an anchoring system.
The proposed array would cover around one-third of the dock’s water area. This floating approach is intended to preserve valuable port land for operational and manufacturing uses, supporting local jobs and the wider economy.
Kirsten Abbott, Senior Project Manager (Energy Generation and Storage) at ABP, commented on the development, stating: “We are delighted to receive approval for this landmark project, which represents a significant step towards cleaner, more resilient energy for the region.
Barrow EnergyDock demonstrates our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that support industry and reduce carbon emissions.”
The project not only highlights ABP’s dedication to renewable energy but also underscores its efforts to secure economic growth for the Barrow and Furness area. Bryan Davies, Divisional Port Manager (Northwest and Scotland), added:
“The development marks a major milestone in realising ABP’s exciting plans for the Port of Barrow, which are designed to drive economic growth and support the region’s advanced engineering sector. We look forward to taking this project forward.”
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 3, 2025 | Oceania, Press Release, Storage
Press Release
The Centre, led by TAFE Queensland, is a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland Governments to support the growth of current and emerging battery technologies through innovative education and training.
With demand for battery installations rising, driven by the Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program, the pilot program responds to urgent workforce needs by offering funded training.
Developed in close consultation with industry, the pilot program aims to address skill gaps and reduce safety risks.
The TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries Executive Director Shawn O’Sullivan said the training is open to the entire energy workforce, including trade assistants, apprentices and licensed electricians.
“The funded training aims to reduce barriers to access, participation and skill development across the industry,” O’Sullivan said. “Through the Centre’s pilot program, seven micro-credentials and one skill set will be delivered by TAFE Queensland.
“Five micro-credentials are open for enrolment now, with the remaining courses launching in early 2026. The micro-credentials can be completed in a few hours, they’re self-paced and online, providing accessible learning opportunities for battery workers across Australia,” he said.
The pilot program will also promote the harmonisation of delivery in battery installation standards across Australia’s TAFE network, with educators also able to access the funded courses, equipping them with the skills to deliver consistent, high-quality training.
Energy and battery workers can enrol in the free online micro-credentials by visiting the Centre’s website.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 2, 2025 | Electric Vehicles, Innovation, Video
Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, the nation’s largest event for renewable energy innovation, built anticipation for the technologies redefining our power landscape.
Amidst the buzz, we sat down with Cameron Millar, Application Engineer for Eaton, a company actively championing the distributed energy future. In this interview, Cameron outlines Eaton’s mission to transform static energy consumers into dynamic prosumers, driving the concept of “buildings as a grid”.
He also shares his perspective on the most impactful emerging technologies set to revolutionise both storage and EV charging, particularly the promise of solid-state batteries and megawatt charging.
“The current limitations in battery technology revolve around weight, size, and energy density. As these technologies improve over time, we gain more energy per kilogram.”
What is the role of Eaton in the industry?
Cameron: Eaton is fundamentally focused on advancing the idea of buildings as a grid.
Our core role is to encourage people to view their premises as a potential energy hub, making them less dependent on the main grid and enabling them to become prosumers, individuals or entities that both produce and consume their own energy.
This concept is realised by integrating on-site renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, with battery storage systems. Since adequately sized solar arrays often generate a substantial surplus, the storage captures this excess energy for later use.
Additionally, installing EV chargers allows the stored or generated excess power to be utilised for vehicle charging. We tie all these components together with an energy management system to ensure optimal energy flows.
This system allows us to implement predictive control. For example, by ensuring batteries are empty to maximise solar capture on a predicted sunny day or dynamically managing EV charging loads to prevent high building demand from overloading the system. We treat the entire building as a holistic energy ecosystem.
What are you showcasing at Solar & Storage Live UK?
Cameron: At the exhibition, we’re highlighting Eaton as a one-stop shop for comprehensive energy solutions. We are showcasing a wide range of products covering both AC and DC charging, from low-power solutions to high-power units, alongside our integrated battery storage systems.
Specifically on the stand, we have our Duo AC charger (2x22kW), various DC chargers, including the 22kW mobile unit and fixed 30kW and 60kW DC chargers. We also feature the ChargePoint CP6K charger, following our recent partnership.
Completing our display is our xStorage Hybrid BESS. Essentially, we are demonstrating that Eaton is the source for all necessary components: power distribution, EV charging, and energy storage.
Talk to us about the commissioning challenge happening this week.
Cameron: We are running a commissioning challenge onsite to underscore how simple and user-friendly our installation process is – we are ultra confident in the ease of commissioning our chargers!
The challenge uses our Green Motion Building AC charger (7.4kW up to 22kW). We challenge installers to take the unit from a full factory reset state, fully commission it, connect it to the charge point back end, and initiate a charge session within five minutes.
We set this up because, while the physical electrical install is routine for installers, they often find the connection to the software back end difficult and time-consuming. We are here to prove it doesn’t have to be – it is easy.
And, if you are the quickest of the day, you will get a little pack of Torx screwdrivers as a prize.
What feedback have you received from installers and decision makers?
Cameron: We have received very positive feedback from both groups. Installers are particularly pleased with the ease and speed of commissioning our units.
For key decision-makers, the most valued feature is the scalability of the chargers. This allows them to install units initially set at a lower power (e.g., 7.4kW) if they currently lack the necessary DNO connection or overall capacity.
The chargers can then be upgraded later to 22kW simply through a rewire or a settings change, avoiding the expense and hassle of a full hardware replacement. This inherent flexibility is a major selling point.
How do you ensure that the EV chargers meet the UK’s 99% reliability requirements?
Cameron: Achieving the required 99% reliability is a significant objective, driven partly by government initiatives aimed at improving the frustrating experience of drivers encountering broken chargers. Our strategy hinges on robust software intervention.
We utilise Charge Central, a system that sits between the charger and the back end. It performs predictive maintenance by continuously monitoring the unit’s operational parameters, such as detecting a fan running too quickly or the unit running too hot.
This allows us to diagnose potential issues and manage remote firmware updates. By catching these problems early, before they escalate into faults that cause downtime, we effectively maximise the charger’s reliability.
Which emerging technologies are you most excited about for EV charging and energy storage integration?
Cameron: I am most excited about advancements in emerging battery technologies. The current limitations in battery technology revolve around weight, size, and energy density. As these technologies improve over time, we gain more energy per kilogram.
This will benefit EVs (lighter vehicles, greater range) and for battery and building storage systems, where reduced physical size is crucial for fitting megawatt-hours of capacity into limited space. We are excited about technologies like solid-state batteries and the impact they will make on this challenge.
Additionally, I find the development of ultra-high-powered charging interesting. Specifically, MCS charging (megawatt charging) will be a game-changer, and we are interested in seeing the innovations that emerge in that space.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 2, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
R.Power, a European independent renewable energy producer, has begun construction on its Klotze Solar Park in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
This project signifies the company’s first utility-scale photovoltaic installation in the country.
The Klotze Solar Park, which has an installed capacity of 20MW, was awarded a 20-year support contract through the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) auction system.
This installation is a key development in R.Power’s strategy for expansion into Western Europe and supplements the company’s existing German portfolio, which includes over 115MW of solar capacity recently secured in the German Innovation Auction organised by Bundesnetzagentur.
Speaking on the development, Przemek Pięta, CEO and Co-Founder of R.Power, said: Germany is a strategically vital market for R.Power, and the start of construction at Klotze Solar Park is a milestone for our company.”
He added that the project “follows our recent success in the German Innovation Auction, where we secured 115.5MW of capacity for new PV projects integrating innovative elements such as storage and hybrid configurations.”
Pięta concluded that, “Together, these achievements demonstrate our strong development capabilities and our long-term commitment to the German market.”
Once operational, the Klotze installation will provide clean electricity to thousands of households, thereby supporting Germany’s decarbonisation objectives and contributing to the national renewable energy mix.
The project aligns with R.Power’s approach of combining photovoltaic and battery energy storage assets to increase system flexibility and value creation, reinforcing its capacity to execute projects across various European markets.
[Image credit: R.Power]
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 2, 2025 | Everything Installer, Press Release
Press Release
DMEGC Solar has launched a new full black PV module that balances performance and reliability.
The G48HBB module stands out with a remarkable maximum power output of up to 475W and a conversion efficiency of 23.8%. Its main power class will be 465W in Q1 2026. This notable performance boost is largely attributed to its innovative encapsulation technology, which enhances both energy yield and long-term reliability.
Unlike bifacial dual-glass modules that use transparent back film, the G48HBB adopts black EVA on the rear side, creating additional internal reflection that increases performance by +1%.
Reliability remains a core principle of the new INFINITY RT series. The module uses 2 mm-thick glass on both the front and back sides, providing exceptional mechanical strength and environmental protection.
To demonstrate its confidence in long-term durability, DMEGC Solar offers an industry-leading warranty package, including a 30-year linear performance warranty and a 25-year product warranty.
This comprehensive protection is designed to offer customers unparalleled long-term peace of mind, setting a new benchmark in the competitive rooftop solar market.
For residential users, the module delivers both aesthetics and practicality. DMEGC Solar’s well-known Advanced Black Technology ensures a consistent, stylish appearance across the entire panel and all individual cells, resulting in a premium, unified look for any rooftop installation.
Aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable products, the INFINITY RT series is a certified green solution. The modules are manufactured without PFAS and are produced with a low carbon footprint.
This commitment is supported by DMEGC Solar’s high traceability standards and production facilities that have earned SSI ESG Silver certification.
The launch of G12RT-G48HBB is on track to solidify DMEGC Solar’s position as an innovator focused on delivering high-efficiency, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing solar solutions. It is expected that this module will continue the success of DMEGC’s full black module series in the residential PV market, reigniting growth in this sector.
[Image credit: DMEGC Solar]
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 1, 2025 | Asia, Commercial & Industrial Solar
The Embassy of Switzerland in China has installed its first PV system, moving toward a greener future with technology provided by GoodWe.
This initiative places the Swiss Embassy among the early diplomatic missions to embrace renewable energy solutions as the world pursues carbon neutrality.
Explaining the motivation behind the project, Swiss Ambassador to China, Jürg Burri, noted Switzerland’s high priority on sustainable buildings. “This year, we’ve taken many measures to make this embassy green,” Burri said.
He detailed the challenge of reducing the embassy’s substantial energy use, stating that conventional measures would only achieve a limited cut. “Adding photovoltaics helps us make a real, substantial difference,” he affirmed.
GoodWe supplied a tailored Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) solution, featuring 143 Galaxy Ultra 335W solar panels and an SDT series inverter. The 47.9kWp system is projected to generate approximately 58,856kWh in its first year, providing power to the ambassador’s residence and the main office building.
The system’s design also had to respect the nearly 50-year-old historic embassy building in Beijing’s Chaoyang District. Ambassador Burri stressed this point, stating, “While we’re making this embassy green, we must respect it as a historic building.”
He added, “We were looking at the product which is not changing the optics or the aesthetics of the embassy too much.” GoodWe’s frameless Galaxy Series panels were selected for their ability to integrate seamlessly with the architecture.
The installation was completed efficiently and with minimal disruption. Ambassador Burri remarked that “The installation was really smooth, very fast.”
Daniel Huang, CEO of GoodWe, highlighted the company’s role in the transition, stating, “This project is another example of how GoodWe delivers integrated solutions that meet specific energy needs while making installation and maintenance simple.”
Ambassador Burri concluded by positioning the partnership within the broader context of international climate action: “China leads in manufacturing capability, and Switzerland is at the forefront of innovation. This partnership shows how our strengths can come together to support global climate goals.”
[Image caption: The Embassy of Switzerland in China. Image credit: GoodWe]
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 1, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
Q ENERGY officially inaugurated the 8.5MW Cahuzac-sur-Adour solar park in the Occitanie region of France on Friday, 28 November, alongside numerous local representatives.
The project involved converting a former quarry site in the Gers department into a renewable energy facility, marking Q ENERGY’s first park in that area.
The site, a Classified Installation for Environmental Protection (ICPE), was used for crushing and screening materials between 1993 and 2019. Its redevelopment into a solar power plant on an already artificial space supports the region’s development and the production of renewable energy.
The 14,500 solar panels across 7.5 hectares now provide renewable energy for nearly 5,000 people and avoid approximately 2,600 tonnes of CO2 annually.
The project aligns with the national plan to increase renewable energies and with Occitanie’s strategy to become an “energy-positive region” by 2050. With this addition, Q ENERGY now has 12 solar parks and 14 wind farms developed and/or built in Occitanie, supplying renewable energy to almost 400,000 people.
Maud Gaide, Solar Director at Q ENERGY, said: “This project was led in an exemplary manner by the teams at Q Energy. Collaboration with local elected officials enabled the development of a solar farm that is well integrated into its territory and whose economic benefits will enable local authorities to carry out projects and investments”.
The solar park incorporates an exemplary ecological approach alongside clean energy generation. Environmental measures include adapting fences for small wildlife movement, installing amphibian barriers, and planning hedge planting.
Soon-to-be implemented measures involve installing educational panels near the Adour hiking trail to raise public awareness of biodiversity and energy transition issues and reshaping an embankment to encourage the settlement of European bee-eaters.
Véronique Sauzay, Regional Solar Manager at Q ENERGY, noted: “The entire team working on this project was committed to developing a project that is consistent with environmental protection values.
“It is important that our green electricity production projects respect the natural characteristics of the sites on which they are located and enhance their ecological value”.
[Image caption: Solar parc Cahuzac-sur-Adour, France. Image credit: Absoludrones, Q ENERGY]
Are you involved in France’s solar market, or looking to get a foothold? Explore the benefits of attending Solar & Storage Live Paris – taking place 14-15 October 2026.
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Dec 1, 2025 | Asia, Large Scale Utility Solar
Huasun Energy has introduced its Himalaya 760 HV heterojunction (HJT) solar module, marking an advancement for the company in ultra-high-power module commercialisation.
The new module delivers an output of 760W, an efficiency of 24.5%, and features an industry-first 2000 V system voltage, designed to boost system returns for customers.
Huasun’s Chairman Xu Xiaohua commented that the photovoltaic industry is now “entering a new phase in which system-level cost reduction and lifecycle value are becoming the primary drivers of competitiveness.”
The 760W module is primarily designed for large-scale utility and desert-based projects, leveraging its high output and high-voltage operation to maximise project economics.
The key innovation is the upgrade from the current industry-standard 1500 V system voltage to 2000 V. This modification, as demonstrated in a simulated 100 MVA utility project in Hami, Xinjiang, unlocks substantial system-level optimisation.
Compared with a 1500 V system, the 2000 V configuration is shown to reduce BOS (Balance of System) costs by approximately RMB 0.1157/W (≈ US 1.6 cents/W), cut foundation pile demand by more than 5,000 units, and significantly improve land-use efficiency.
Further analysis comparing the HJT 760W (2000 V) system with a TOPCon 725W (1500 V) system revealed BOS cost reductions of RMB 0.1521/W (≈ US 2.1 cents/W), resulting in approximately 11.95% in BOS savings and an increase of 0.86 percentage points in the project’s Internal Rate of Return (IRR).
These performance gains translate directly into stronger investment returns for utility-scale solar projects.
The Himalaya 760 HV integrates several design upgrades, including a 132-half-cell dual-string architecture, large-size silicon wafers, negative spacing design, and high screen coverage.
The module achieves an active area ratio of 95.8%, contributing to an approximate 20W power gain and a 0.66% efficiency improvement.
To guarantee safety under ultra-high-voltage operation, the module incorporates an innovative butyl edge-sealing process to enhance insulation without compromising efficiency.
The design is fully compatible with existing high-efficiency production lines, requiring only minor equipment adjustments for mass production.
Combining 760W output, 24.5% efficiency, and the 2000 V platform, the Himalaya 760 HV establishes a new benchmark for next-generation utility PV systems. Xu concluded: “760W is not an endpoint, but a new starting point.
This platform will continue evolving toward higher power, higher efficiency, and higher value for the global clean energy transition.”
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Nov 28, 2025 | Africa, Commercial & Industrial Solar
Press Release
ACCIONA Energía has reached an agreement with Cennergi, Exxaro Resources Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary and one of South Africa’s leading renewable energy producers, for the sale of its stake in two renewable energy assets totalling 232MW of capacity, for an enterprise value (EV) of €255m.
The two projects are the Gouda wind farm (138MW) and the Sishen PV plant (94MWp), which have been in operation since 2015 and 2014, respectively.
ACCIONA Energía owns 55% of each project through ACCIONA Energía Internacional – a company in which AXA (20%) and Bestinver Infra FCR (5%) also participate –, while the remaining 45% is held by Royal Bafokeng Holdings (25%), Soul City (10%) and Community Trust (10%).
The transaction also includes ACCIONA Energía’s 80% stake in the company responsible for the operation and maintenance of both projects.
It is expected to close in 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals, and to generate a capital gain of around €65m. The assets are backed by project financing of €100 million.
This transaction is yet another step forward in the asset rotation strategy announced by ACCIONA Energía in November 2023.
Since then, the company has reached agreements to sell more than 1.4GW of renewable capacity in Costa Rica, Spain, and Peru for more than €2bn, highlighting the attractiveness of its assets in the market and strengthening its financial position through value crystallisation.
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by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Nov 28, 2025 | Innovation, Storage
As the global energy transition accelerates, a new report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights the critical role of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) in the future of stationary energy storage.
‘Sodium-Ion Batteries: A Technology Brief’ demonstrates that, with renewable capacity expanding, “energy storage technologies, including batteries, are crucial for improving the flexibility of power systems while maintaining grid stability”.
For the solar storage sector, which requires reliable and scalable solutions, SIBs offer a compelling alternative to dominant lithium-ion chemistries. The report finds that “one of the most promising applications for SIBs is stationary storage”, driven by distinct advantages in resource availability.
Unlike lithium, “sodium is far more abundant than lithium – around 1,000 times more abundant in the Earth’s crust”, which offers significant insulation against market volatility. Consequently, “wide material availability can reduce supply chain risk, support lower costs, and make SIBs a promising alternative to LIBs”.
This cost-effectiveness is vital for large-scale solar integration. The report explains that battery storage aids in “optimising the operation of renewable generation”, a key requirement for managing the intermittency of solar power.
Furthermore, SIBs can facilitate “peak shaving, that reduces demand for power generation during periods of peak demand”, thereby enhancing the economic viability of renewable projects.
While SIBs currently trail lithium-ion batteries in energy density, their environmental profile is competitive. The report states that “overall, the lifecycle environmental impact of SIBs per kWh could be comparable to that of the best performing LIBs”.
Additionally, “their cost-effectiveness, safety and sustainability make them particularly attractive for large-scale energy storage”.
Looking ahead, the technology is poised for growth, though it remains in the early stages of commercialisation.
The report suggests that “SIBs could ease supply constraints and price volatility linked to lithium-based batteries” by diversifying the market. As the sector matures, these batteries may become essential for a resilient, renewable-powered grid.
[Graph credit: IRENA]
by Solar&StorageXtra Team | Nov 28, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
A new three-way collaboration between global renewable energy firm Zelestra, the Aragón-based nonprofit ECODES, and Microsoft has been announced, designed to boost social and environmental community investment across Aragón, Spain.
The initiative is built upon a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under which Microsoft will purchase the clean energy generated by Zelestra’s Escatrón II and Fuendetodos II solar projects in Zaragoza, Aragón. The projects, currently under construction, will deliver a combined capacity of 95.7 MWac.
A key component of the agreement is the funding provided to ECODES to implement direct impact programmes and lead grant-making activities.
These Community Funds are specifically targeted at supporting community-led sustainability initiatives for vulnerable populations, expanding access to sustainable infrastructure and healthy environments, and advancing economic inclusion.
The partnership aligns with Zelestra’s 3 Es (Education, Energy and Environment) strategy and supports Microsoft’s carbon negative goals and Datacenter Community Pledge to create local benefits.
Scarlett Alvarez Uzcategui, Zelestra’s Chief Stakeholder and Sustainability Officer, said the partnership “aligns perfectly with our commitment to deliver meaningful, positive impact in the communities where we operate.
“We will be present in Aragón for the long-term… and we are certain that the benefits of this initiative will also have a lasting positive impact for communities nearby.”
Eoin Doherty, Vice President, EMEA Regional Leader, Cloud Operations + Innovation, at Microsoft, emphasised this local commitment: “As Microsoft grows its presence in Aragon, we are committed to advancing community prosperity, well-being, and sustainability.
“This collaboration with Zelestra and ECODES is an important part of fulfilling this commitment and ensuring that we meet our clean energy goals in a way that delivers lasting benefits to the local community.”
The project also adheres to ECODES’ mission to ensure an inclusive transition. Cecilia Foronda, Head of Action for a Just Ecological Transition at ECODES, called the collaboration a “unique opportunity to help accelerate the transition to a green, inclusive, and responsible economy in Aragon and across Spain.”
She added: “ECODES commits to listen to local stakeholders so that the benefits of this collaboration reach those who need them most, strengthening social participation and territorial balance and leaving no one behind.”
With Spain’s solar market remaining a crucial topic, don’t miss your free ticket for Solar & Storage Live España 27-28 May 2026.
