by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 22, 2024 | Market Reports
Previous Top 10: Unveiling the Globe’s Top 10 Solar PV Manufacturers
In the escalating urgency to transition to sustainable energy models, the spotlight has firmly shifted towards innovative solar and storage solutions. The commitment to reducing carbon footprints, combined with breakthroughs in technology, have created a new wave of start-ups leading the charge in the renewable revolution. Here are the top 10 start-up companies revolutionising the solar and storage industry!
Meggitt
MEGGITT is part of a group of companies that develop, own, and operate renewable assets and trade energy. The company are committed to leveraging technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), to optimise the performance of solar assets. Innovation and excellence has led MEGGITT to position themselves as a premier partner for clients seeking to maximize the efficiency of their renewable energy investments. The use of AI and ML provide sophisticated insights and analytics for data-driven decision-making, aligning well with the growing importance of technology in the renewable energy sector.
Ortus Energy
Ortus Energy specialises in distributed energy projects, saving our clients money on their bills and creating energy security. Ortus Energy focus on reducing their electricity bills for businesses, local authorities, hospitals, and places of education. The company can assess the technical and economic feasibility of solar energy developments to identify the most cost effective and beneficial solution to meet clients’ needs.
EV8
EV8 provides the solutions to help businesses understand when and how to transition to electric vehicles (EV) and enhancing the opportunity of their assets. The company has created an end-to-end solution that helps customers through the process of education and purchasing of EVs, charge point installation and asset optimisation.
IVBOT
ivBOT is a leading provider of innovative solutions for green energy production and management. The company are dedicated in driving the transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon future by leveraging the power of technology and expertise in the energy domain. ivBOT is an Internet of Things (IoT) company that specialises in the energy domain. The company provide innovative solutions for green energy production, management, and optimisation.
Tractorbots
Agriculture and energy independence entwine in Tractorbots’ mission. Their solar-tracking robots move along crops, not just following the sun for optimal energy production, but also identifying and reporting plant health, irrigating fields, and even providing shade when necessary. This integrated approach not only maximizes land use but also minimizes the environmental footprint.
SolRecycle
When discussing a circular economy in the solar industry, SolRecycle’s ‘ReLive’ program is a key player. Their patented method deconstructs end-of-life photovoltaic panels, reclaims rare earth elements, and upcycles components to produce new panels. In a time where e-waste is a pressing concern, SolRecycle offers a sustainable solution that is both viable and vital.
Heliostorage
Heliostorage was initiated by a team of enthusiastic young engineers in 2012, with multiple product pilots being deployed before Heliostorage was officially founded in 2019. The overarching focus of the company is to contribute substantially to the goals set by the Paris agreement to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Heliostorage with it’s efficient thermal and battery storage products hope to contribute to one gigaton in emission reductions for their customers.
Unbound Energy
Unbound Energy provide solar as a service for businesses. The company aims to unlock the tenant landlord dynamic that prevents them from installing solar. Unbound Energy offer free installations for landlords and cheaper, cleaner energy for tenants as a part of contracts that begin from 3 years in length. Landlords improve their EPC rating for free and tenants contribute towards Net Zero goals.
Beyond Batteries
With a focus on redox flow batteries, Beyond Batteries delivers on the promise of a more sustainable energy storage paradigm. Their low-cost system, coupled with high energy density and a closed-loop recycling process, sets a new benchmark. This approach to energy storage not only makes renewable integration more feasible but also ensures a cleaner energy lifecycle from start to finish.
Sention
Sention Technologies are passionate about advancing cell intelligence to drive positive change in the solar industry. Our cutting-edge sensor technology enables rapid, non-destructive diagnostics of any electrochemical cell, including batteries, fuel-cells, electrolysers, and super capacitors. The focus of Sention’s technology is their cell intelligence platform. With this platform, Sention can capture and analyse large datasets using advanced analytical techniques, including machine learning, to provide valuable insights and predictions at any stage of a cell’s life cycle, from production to re-use and recycling.
All start-up companies highlighted in this article are exhibiting at Solar&StorageLive London on April 29-30 at the ExCel Centre in London.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 21, 2024 | Market Reports
SUBMIT YOUR PRESS RELEASES TO SOLAR&STORAGEXTRA!
The Solar&StorageXtra newsletter has generated 20,000 global subscribers in less than 3 months, adding over 500 new subscribers every week! Due to the continued success of Soalr&StorageXtra we’re now able to offer press release submissions for solar and storage market leaders.
Solar&StorageXtra is the new resource for global solar and storage professionals to share, learn and inspire. As well as distributing regular industry news and interviews, we cover agenda sessions and interviews from the global Solar & Storage Live event series – content our readers can’t find anywhere else.
Our mission is to stimulate innovators, business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the globe, uniting the brightest minds in the industry to bring about much needed change. From tackling issues in the solar supply chain to changes in government policy, touching on issues like commercial and industrial solar, battery storage, and innovation, this is an invaluable resource for anyone working in the solar energy ecosystem, globally.
Share your news and announcements with an engaged audience of global renewable energy professionals. Submit your press release to our editorial team here.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 21, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image credit: EcoWatch)
The government in Western Australia announced on the 15th of March that construction has begun on the largest battery energy storage system (BESS) project in the country. The Collie BESS site will have a 500MW output and 2000MwH capacity, which is the equivalent capacity to the country’s entire portfolio under construction in 2022.
Funded by the state as a part of the government energy storage commitment, the site is expected to help manage intermittent renewable energy sources. Solar and wind are the two main sources.
State owned energy generation retailer Synergy are looking to add to the portfolio. The company are now looking to deploy 3GwH of energy storage from batteries by 2025. Collie is to also be completed by the end of 2025 and will consist of two projects, the Kwinana 1 (a 100MW-400MwH capacity) and the Kwinana 2 (with 200MW-800MwH capacity).
The new BESS project in Western Australia will increase its energy security in the region. The region is not a part of the National Electricity Market (NEM) that connects the Southern and Eastern parts to electricity market. Instead, the energy in Western Australia is connected through the Southwest Interconnected System of Western Australia grid network, which is known to be an incredibly volatile market. Energy storage will help manage electricity in the grid preventing potential energy blackouts. Currently, Western Australia is set to need between 12GwH and 17GwH of capacity by 2050.
At the end of 2022, 19 BESS projects worth 1.4GW were under construction in Australia. By the end of 2023, 5GW of BESS projects were under construction. The upgrades continue to be planned at the Collie site. Privately owned French power producer Neoen have already put plans in place to upgrade the site from 200MW-800MwH to 1GW-4GwH to help the local population benefit from thermal generation.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 20, 2024 | Market Reports
Solar photovoltaics (PV) continue to assist the global transition to renewable energy. A global market for solar PV leads to a huge amount of competition between PV manufacturers. This article will highlight the 10-leading solar PV manufacturers competing for the top spot.
1. JinkoSolar – A Head Above the Rest
JinkoSolar, a Chinese powerhouse, has consistently ranked among the top enterprises in the solar industry. Their products have been renowned for efficiency and JinkoSolar has maintained a robust commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness. The company’s comprehensive range of PV modules spans innovative technology, ensuring they stand resilient in the global marketplace.
2. Trina Solar – Charting New Horizons
Trina Solar stands tall as a pioneer of innovations that have navigated the solar market intelligently. Their focus on research has spawned cutting-edge solutions, and their modules boast exceptional performance under varying conditions. Trina Solar is etching a legacy characterized by its stringent quality standards and top-tier technological advancements that enable them to outshine competitors.
3. Canadian Solar – A Vision of the Future
Canadian Solar, with its global presence and extensive research pipeline, continues to push the boundaries in solar technology. Their solar modules are integrated with intelligent features that maximize output efficiency, lending them favour in utility-scale and residential applications. The company’s commitment to sustainability and the environment is matched only by their dedication to pushing for technological progress.
4. First Solar – A Trailblazer in Thin-Film
First Solar has established itself as a leader in thin-film solar technology, offering a significant contrast to traditional crystalline-silicon panels. This has positioned them uniquely as a leader in utility-scale projects, particularly in areas with challenging climatic conditions. The company’s foundations in robust manufacturing processes have further solidified their standing as a premier choice for solar developers.
5. JA Solar – Illuminating the World
JA Solar’s extensive product line is underpinned by a consistent investment in research and development. This has yielded solutions that not only excel in performance but also enable cost-effective installations. Their dual commitments to innovation and high-quality production have entrenched JA Solar as an eminent player in the solar PV domain.
6. Hanwha Q Cells – The Power of Synergy
Hanwha Q Cells embodies the synergy from its parent company, Hanwha Group, integrating diverse expertise to produce top-tier solar products. Their range includes polycrystalline and monocrystalline silicon modules that have set benchmarks in conversion efficiencies. The company’s multi-pronged approach also spotlights their contribution to the entire solar value chain.
7. LONGi Solar – For the Long Haul
LONGi Solar’s focus lies in monocrystalline technology, a domain where they are one of the leading proponents. Their products hold records for the highest levels of conversion efficiency, a testament to their zeal for advancing the monocrystalline segment. LONGi Solar’s unwavering focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability has seen them gain a strong foothold in both domestic and international markets.
8. Risen Energy – A Bright Prospect for Solar
Risen Energy has emerged as an exciting contender among global PV manufacturers, known for its comprehensive product portfolio and consistent product quality. They have made significant strides in expanding their reach globally and promoting clean energy across different countries. Their journey into technological enhancements, such as PERC, bodes well for their future ventures.
9. Astronergy – A Rising Star in Solar Manufacturing
Astronergy, a subsidiary of the Chint Group, has risen through the ranks with its commitment to quality and relentless pursuit of technological evolution. This has placed them as a formidable competitor in the global solar PV market. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and robust product performance showcases their steadfast commitment to being a leading light in the solar industry.
10. Suntech Power Holdings – The Golden Son of Solar
Suntech Power Holdings secures a pedestal in the solar PV elite with its extensive research into silicon and thin-film technologies. Their modules have been the focus of numerous record-breaking installations, a testimony to their engineering prowess. The company’s resolve to provide high-efficiency solar solutions has cemented its position as a significant player in the renewable energy game.
Navigating the Future of Solar
These 10 companies are not operating in isolation. There are other solar PV manufactures contributing to the global solar boom, but these are the companies are leading the way in manufacturing, innovation and deployment.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 20, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image credit: Solstice)
Renewable energy think tank, Ember, have released a report titled ‘Putting the Mission in Transmission: Grids for Europe’s Energy Transition.’ The research focused on 35 national grid development plans from European TSOs in the United Kingdom (UK), European Union (EU) and the Balkans to asses if their plans for solar match their government targets.
The report concluded that many countries in Europe are ‘out of step with reality’ regarding the energy transition with 19 countries underestimating the deployment of solar technologies by 205GW (by 2030). Underestimating the amount of solar being deployed to a region could increase the congestion within its electricity grid and slow down deployment of solar projects.
Only the TSOs in Croatia, Denmark, Finland and the Netherlands anticipated for an increase in available solar capacity. Grid plans for these 4 countries anticipated an additional 81GW of solar (and wind) capacity in excess of each countries targets.
Solar technologies are more likely to be affected by misalignments in solar capacity and targets. France has the highest difference between solar capacity (35GW) and solar targets (54GW). Across Europe, the average difference between capacity and targets stands at 60GW. The main reason for this difference is the time disparity between the publishing of national targets and TSO grid plans. These plans must be aligned.
If solar capacity and electricity grid planning are not completed in collaboration, net zero targets will not be met. There will be no transition to renewable energy without an appropriate transmission network that supports new technologies. Upgrades in the European grid network are being planned to combat these challenges with 25,000km of new transmission lines being planned between now and 2026.
More and more advancements in electricity grids are being placed into political discourse to ensure an
efficient transition to net zero.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 18, 2024 | Innovation
(Image credit: cbarnesphotography)
Solar pv manufacturers in the United States (US) are calling for the Biden Administration to implement stricter tariffs on solar imports.
China is currently the leading solar supplier in the world for solar pv. Chinese based solar panels have assisted in halving the global price of solar pv, reaching 10cents a watt. Whilst this global price decrease has led to a boom for renewable energy developers, it has damaged the success of solar manufactures in the US. Solar manufacturers want the Biden Administration to put stronger tariffs in place on solar imports to help develop a domestic supply chain of solar pv in the US.
Currently, power companies in the US are favouring cheaper imports over more expensive domestic panels.
The government in the US already has a 14% import tax on solar imports, with an additional 25% on Chinese imports. This can raise to 200% if the imports are found to be from a Chinese manufacturer who have set up a factory in another region of Asia to avoid higher import tariffs. The US have imposed such strict tariffs on Chinese imports because of ‘China’s discriminative trade practices’.
First Solar and Heliene are two of the solar manufactures in the US that have called for stronger import tariffs. The conversation around stricter import tariffs on solar pv has put the solar industry in the US in a difficult position, especially when cheaper panel prices are a key part of the deployment of solar technology in the US. With 36GW worth of solar energy expected to be deployed this year, the US must find a solution to efficiently meet net zero targets.
The Solar Energy Industry Association have explained that the US will always have a combination of imported and domestically produced solar panels in its energy mix. The worry is not to completely neglect domestic production because of cheaper prices.
The Bill Gates backed solar wafer manufacturer Cubie PV have already scrapped plans to build a 10GW factory due to the dramatic collapse in solar pv prices. BloombergNEF have found that the US imported 50GW of panels between January-November 2023 and are anticipating cancellations and delays in US solar manufacturing to reach more than 115GW.
To combat this, First Solar have announced new factories in Alabama and Louisiana. Swiss based solar manufacturer Meyer Burger have shut its facility in Germany to boost manufacturing Colorado and Arizona. Meyer Burger have opened these factories in the US because Europe is close to losing its strategic industry due to mass Chinese imports.
These new factories will boost the amount of solar pv manufactured in the US but the country must keep hold of this domestic supply of solar pv.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 18, 2024 | Storage, Video
It was a pleasure to interview Shamala Gadgill, Senior Programme Manager at Coventry City Council, ahead of their participation at Solar&Storage Live London, at the ExCel (April 29-30)!
Solar&StorageXtra is the new publishing part of the Solar and Storage Live event series where we will be interviewing our esteemed speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and attendees to get their live reactions to the event and the important discussions within the industry.
Shamala joined Solar&StorageXtra to discuss the deployment of charging infrastructure, the support that is given to local authorities to deploy this technology and the affect a skills shortage has on an industry.
Shamala explained that a mass deployment of charging infrastructure is needed to support the electrification of public transport. Lots of projects are happening in Coventry, including the integration of solar and battery storage. In collaboration with National Express, Coventry City Council have began to install solar pv on the rooftop of their bus depot alongside a battery storage system. In theory, the solar and storage system could provide enough electricity to power the 10 strong electric bus fleet.
Shamala highlighted that a lot of work is being done by the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to support local authorities with their electric vehicle strategy but more needs to be done. Shamala explained to tackle these challenges to EV infrastructure deployment, like the skills shortage for example, significant collaboration is needed. Measures must be put into place to tackle these issues but attending events, like Solar&StorageLive, help provide a platform for these discussions and assist local authorities to understand what technology suits their town/city best.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 14, 2024 | Commercial & Industrial Solar
(Image credit: Amoria Bond)
Power consumption in the United States are set to reach record numbers in 2024 and 2025. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) have released their Short Term Energy Outlook on Tuesday (March 12). The EIA have projected energy demand to rise from 4000bn kWh in 2023 to 4099bn kWh in 2024 and 4128bn kWh in 2025.
The rise in energy use is because of homes and businesses transitioning from fossil fuels to electricity when powering heating and transportation. The EIA have forecast the power sales of electricity to rise for residential, commercial and industrial customers:
- Residential: 1509bn kWh in 2022 to 1511bn kWh in 2024.
- Commercial: 1391bn kWh in 2022 to 1396bn kWh in 2024.
- Industrial: 1064bn kWh in 2000 to 1042bn kWh in 2024.
Natural gas’ share of the United States’ power generation is expected to hold at 42% in 2024 then expected to decrease slowly to 41% in 2025.
The EIA continue to explain that coal’s share of power is set to decline from 17% in 2023, to 15% in 2024, and 14% in 2025. The decline in coal powered generation is in coordination with the rise of renewable energy generation.
The percentage of renewable generation will rise from 21% to 24% in 2024 and expected to reach 25% in 2025. Nuclear power is expected to hold at 19% power share of renewables total power generation across the 3 years.
As the US’s transition to more renewable forms of generation for heating and transportation, energy use will continue to rise. The positive is, this energy is being generated from renewable sources and not damaging the environment.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 13, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image credit: Power Technology)
The continent of Africa has one of the greatest potentials for solar generation across the world.
Of the 54 countries in Africa, Egypt has the highest solar energy potential. The government in Egypt has set a renewable energy target of increasing the number of renewables in its electricity mix to 42% by 2035.
To reach this target, solar farms have been built in the country. Of the farms that have been built, carbon emissions have been reduced by two million tonnes a year and provides clean electricity to more than one million homes.
The most significant solar farm in Egypt is the Benhan solar farm in Aswan.
Launched in 2018, the Benhan mega-project quickly became one of the largest solar parks in the world.
Overall development of the project was led by the Egyptian New and Renewable Energy Authority and was supported by a $55mn investment by the African Development Bank.
The investment included the deployment of 34 solar plants each with a 50MW capacity. At full capacity the Benhan solar farm is set to produce 3.8TwH of clean electricity annually. The project has created 6000 permanent positions and 20,000 jobs during its construction phase.
Overall, the Egyptian New and Renewable Energy Authority has allowed 39 companies, that specialise in renewable energy production, to operate in their solar facilities for 25years. The Benhan solar farm is not the only significant solar project to take shape in the region. Discussions have begun with the local authority in Aswan to turn the Benhan Industrial High School into a ‘solar energy school’ that will provide training and various aspects of solar energy and electrical engineering.
The Benhan solar farm has set a precedent for clean energy production in Africa, leading the way to reach sustainable goals in line with UN Strategy.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 13, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image credit: Climate Home News)
Electricity generation from solar pv is making a significant impact in India’s electricity mix.
Distributed and decentralised solar technologies have benefitted large amounts of the population regarding their domestic energy needs, subsequently increasing living standards through a continuous supply of clean energy.
Solar is the most secure of all the renewable energy sources because of incredible amounts of availability, especially in India. If harnessed correctly, the potential for mass adoption of solar pv in the country is incredible.
According to the Indian government, a potential generation capacity of 5000trillion TwH per year could be generated if India’s available landmass is covered by solar pv. The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) in India has highlighted the potential of 746GW of solar to be generated if 3% of waste land was covered by solar pv.
Solar is a key part of India’s government strategy to meet the country’s electricity needs and increase its energy security.
In January 2010, India launched its National Action Plan on Climate Change with its ‘National Solar Mission’ as a key strategy. The action plans key targets include:
- Establishing India as a global leader in solar energy.
- To have 50% of India’s total electricity generation be from green technologies.
- Decrease its carbon intensity by 45% (from 2005 levels) by 2030.
By the end of 2022, India stood at the 5th largest solar power producer in the world with its total installed capacity reaching 70.10GW by June 2023.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 12, 2024 | Innovation
(Image credit: Repono)
The European Union investment body EIT InnoEnergy have announced the launch of its new energy storage investment platform, Repono, on March 6. Repono is a platform for owning and operating energy storage assets across Europe and is targeting a 10% market share of an expected 1TwH market by 2030.
Prior to its full launch, Repono acquired the second-life battery storage firm BatteryLoop in November 2023. The company’s acquisition means Repono already has a fully operational energy storage systems in the Nordic region with 25employees. Repono’s launch did not specify which energy storage technologies would be prioritised but because of the projects scale, second-life energy storage technology would not.
Rapid deployment of intermittent renewable energy technologies has put Europe under stress because of higher energy prices and lack of energy security. Repono is designed to directly address these challenges. The company strategically manages storage to buy, charge, sell and discharge electricity at the right time, providing a 24hour decarbonised electricity supply.
Repono has access to EIT InnoEnergy’s 46+ energy storage investments and 800+ members in their ‘European Battery Theatre’. A significant target of the EU’s is to reach 42% of renewable energy by 2030, Repono will help deliver this.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 12, 2024 | Innovation
(Image credit: SunWays)
Switzerland based start-up SunWays has developed a Solar PV system that can be placed between railway tracks.
The project began in May 2023 and has placed connected a mechanically detachable Solar PV plant on a section of a railway line operated by Transport Publics Neuchatetais SA. The technology was developed in cooperation with the Swiss Innovation Agency ‘innosuisse’ and ‘Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lousanne’.
The PV systems themselves are developed in a factory then loaded onto a train. The train itself will then roll out the modules onto the train tracks ‘like a carpet.’ The modules are also designed to be removed at any time to ensure ease of track maintenance. If successful, the project could spread over 7000km and generate 1TwH of solar power.
SunWays are being very ambitious in their growth of the technology. The company want to expand the solar technology across the global rail network to maximise solar generation. Globally the railway network spans 1.16mn km and 260,000km across Europe. SunWays have already contacted investors in Europe and the United States about offering its solution globally.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 7, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Photo credit: Los Angeles Times)
Significant cost decrease of solar has rapidly increased the distribution of solar panels in the United States (US).
A variety of financing options, including leasing and Power Purchase Agreements, have allowed solar to be more accessible and more affordable to distribute.
Solar’s popularity does vary state-by-state based off overall price, number of installers, incentives available and appropriate tax credits.
California is currently leading the solar race in the US generating more solar power than any other state.
It offers a high number of state and local incentives to help reach its ambitious project targets. The state began promoting the use and deployment in solar in 1976 and now produces 30% of the US’ total solar generation at 7880KwH. The Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA) revealed that California is set to add an additional 22,630MW in the next five years.
Texas is the second most successful state regarding solar generation, registering 3086KwH.
A lot of solar generation in the state comes from solar farms but utility-provided incentives have led to an increase in residential solar incentives. As the population in Texas increases, as will the state’s energy demand. A shift to residential solar in the state will increase the energy security of Texas’ electricity users.
In third place of the US solar race is Florida with 1856KwH of generation.
Similar to Texas, the majority of Florida’s solar generation is from large scale solar farms but the state is seeing a rise in residential solar. Those living in the state pay some of the most expensive energy bills in the country. The growth of solar will help lower these. The SEIA reported that Florida is set to add an additional 12,816MW of solar in the next 5 years.
Solar in the US is a continuous rise with California, Texas and Florida taking podium positions in the countries solar race.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 7, 2024 | Innovation
(Photo credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Africa has an incredible potential for solar generation. Mass infrastructure challenges leave many countries across the continent without regular energy supply because of frequent blackouts. It is not for the lack of resources either, the International Energy Agency explained that Africa has 60% of the world’s solar resources but only 1% of the world’s solar generation capacity. Irregular and expensive electricity has led to poorer members of the African population finding it difficult to access electricity. Start-ups across Africa have begun to capitalise of the potential of solar in the region, offering advanced energy solutions to those facing regular blackouts and poor electricity supply.
Start-ups leading the shift to solar energy across Africa include:
SunCulture
The Nairobi based company have currently raised over $40mn to provide farmers with irrigation systems to decrease their reliability on fossil fuel energy systems and the effect of intermittent weather has on their production. SunCulture’s technologies are cheaper, cleaner and require less maintenance. Subsequently, improving the day-to-day activity of their customers. According to research conducted by the company, 89% of farmers experience an increase in their quality of life, 90% increased their total production and 87% increased their earnings.
Mikayla Czajkowski, Chief of Staff at SunCulture told the United Nations:
“Solar is particularly attractive because of its positive environmental impact, job creation potential, and economic development potential… African nations have immense potential to benefit from utilizing solar energy – especially in remote and under-served regions where energy access is limited – and facilitates a reduction in the continent’s carbon footprint, making a valuable contribution to global efforts to combat climate change.”
GridXAfrica
GridXAfrica are another start-up that are assisting Africa’s shift to a more reliable and renewable energy generation. The company offer off-grid solar panels to farms and construction companies in Kenya, Mozambique, and Tanzania to the pay-as-you-go solar company Bboxx and the Egyptian solar developer and electricity distributor KarmSolar. Collaboration, across the board, is incredibly important to assist a reliable and more efficient electricity infrastructure.
Odyssey Energy Solutions Africa
Odyssey Energy Solutions Africa provide technology and finance solutions for distributed renewable energy, offering tools for solar developers to pitch potential projects to finance firms and secure funding.
Innovative companies like SunCulture, GridXAfrica, Odyssey Energy Solutions Africa all require significant to be successful. Only then will a more reliable and renewable energy grid will be developed. Government and non-government schemes have helped with this. The most significant being the US-Africa Clean Energy Finance initiative (US-AFCEF) that has already supported 32 projects in offsetting the cost of early stage development in the hope of increasing investment.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 6, 2024 | Market Reports
(Image credit: Arab News)
The solar industry in Saudi Arabia is on a consistent rise. The solar market has now reached pre-pandemic levels after covid affected the market. Saudi Arabia is now expected to reach 1028MW of capacity by the end of the 2024, registering a compound annual growth rate of 51% in the forecast period. A combination of supportive government policies, decreased fossil fuel dependency, and a conscious effort to distribute solar are expected to drive the market’s growth. The countries’ National Renewable Energy Programme has set a 40GW solar energy installed capacity target by 2030. At its current rate, Saudi Arabia are set to achieve this target.
What are Saudi Arabia’s solar market trends?
Solar PVs are expected to dominate the solar market in Saudi Arabia. The technologies constant decline in cost and versatility makes it the perfect choice for Saudi Arabia’s sun-rich environment. In 2021, the government in Saudi Arabia launched a green initiative to reinforce the countries commitment to have 50% of its total energy generation be from renewable energy. The nation’s ‘Vision 2030’ strategy has set the target of increasing the solar capacity to 40GW and installing 2.7GW of concentrated solar power by 2030. Saudi Arabia’s ‘Renewable Energy Project Development Office’, within the Ministry of Energy, is responsible for delivering the countries National Renewable Energy Program in line with ‘Vision 2030’. In 2012, Saudi Arabia’s total solar installed capacity stood at 14MW and by 2021 this reached 439MW. Solar PVs currently equal 88% of total solar energy capacity in Saudi Arabia.
What solar policies are in place in Saudi Arabia?
In order to reach the nation’s ‘Vision 2030’ strategy the government have directed the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to provide financial support for the renewable strategy. The PIF is currently mandated to invest $40bn annually to reach the ‘Vision 2030’ targets. These include:
- The 40GW and 2.7GW of installed solar capacity mentioned.
- Reach carbon neutrality by 2030.
- Establish net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
- What projects have been launched in Saudi Arabia?
In September 2022, the Saudi Arabia Procurement Corporation launched 5 projects to generate electricity as a part of the National Renewable Energy Programme. 3 are wind projects, the other 2 are solar. Both solar projects are located in Al Hinakiyahand Tabarjalwould with one solar project having a 11MW capacity, the other has a 400MW capacity. In March 2022, Saudi Arabia awarded 1GW of total capacity to solar power projects. Saudi Power Procurement Company signed a 25year PPA for a 700MW plant with Al Ross Solar Energy Company. The company signed an agreement for 300MW solar plant, the contract was awarded to Jinko Solar and set to be built in Riyadh and will cost $213m. ACWA Power have signed an agreement with Badeel, the water and electricity company in Saudi Arabia, to build the world’s largest single-site solar plant in Al Shuaibah, Mecca Province. The facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2025 with a generating capacity of 2060MW. The project is both developed and operated as a 50/50 joint venture between ACWA and Badeel. Each project is backed by the Saudi Arabia Sovereign Wealth fund and the PIF who hold a 100% stake in ACWA and Badeel.
Saudi Arabia’s Energy Industry Overview
Saudi Arabia’s solar industry has a moderately fragmented market that is highly competitive with no dominant players. Significant companies operating in the region are:
- Alfanar Group
- Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company
- EDF Renewables
- Saudi Electricity company
- ACWA Power company
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 5, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image Credit: Power Technology)
Solar PV is on an incredible rise in the UAE.
In Abu Dhabi projects continue to be developed in the region.
The Al Dhafra solar project is the most significant solar site in Abu Dhabi. It is a 2GW capacity independent producer project (iPP) located 35km south of Abu Dhabi City.
The project is currently developed under a public-private partnership scheme with 60% of the project owned by government owned electricity companies Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and Masdor.
The remaining 40% of the project is owned by EDF Renewables and Jinko Power.
A 30year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed by all 4 project stakeholders with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) to sell the electricity generated.
Overall, the project could take Abu Dhabi’s solar capacity to 3.2GW.
In its construction phase, the project created 4000 jobs for the local community.
Once fully operational, the Al Dhafra solar project is set to provide electricity to 160,000 homes across the UAE and cut carbon emissions by more than 2.4million tonnes a year.
Jinko Solar provide the Crystalline Bifacial PV models to ensure a better yield, achieving 22.49% efficiency.
The Al Dhafra solar project is a part of the UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050, where the region is targeting to increase its total share of the energy mix to 50%, from 25%, by 2050.
Two other solar plants in Abu Dhabi include:
The 100MW Shams 1 solar plant. This was the first solar plant of its kind when it was launched in 2013 and currently powers 20,000 households in the UAE.
The 1.17GW Noor Abu Dhabi solar plant is one of the world’s largest plants currently operational. With 3.2million solar panels working on the site, it has the operational capabilities to power 90,000 homes.
by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 5, 2024 | Video
It was a pleasure to interview Daisy Cross, Head of Retail Energy Markets at Energy UK, ahead of their participation at Solar&StorageLive London, April 29-30.
Solar&StorageXtra is the new publishing part of the Solar and Storage Live event series where we will be interviewing our esteemed speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and attendees to get their live reactions to the event and the important discussions within the industry.
Daisy joined Solar&StorageXtra to discuss the importance of Energy UK, the UK’s retail energy market, and the challenges to mass electrification and changing the populations electricity habits to decrease energy prices.
As the main trade body for the energy sector, Energy UK represents a wide range of energy sector companies from those who modernise and decarbonise the energy system to companies that develop products and services for customers.
Daisy explained that achieving a sustainable, stable, and affordable energy sector which meets Net Zero is Energy UK’s objective.
The retail energy market involves energy companies selling electricity directly to energy users, including homes and businesses. Daisy explained the energy market of the future involves a transparency of data and the use of time-of-use tariffs.
The retail market of the future will mean spreading usage more evenly over the course of the day, driven by allowing users to respond to real time information and incentives to help balance the energy system. When consumers change their energy behaviours, fewer spikes in usage will occur. This will then reduce the need for back-up generation to stabilise the grid.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Mar 1, 2024 | Large Scale Utility Solar
(Image credit: Sungrow Floating)
In January, the government in Malaysia announced it would be opening up bids for the nation’s fifth large-scale solar PV project.
A quota of up to 2GW will be made available to developers, where a maximum bid will be 500MW.
The Ministry of Energy and public utilities told SolarEdgeMalaysia about the building process:
“The Execution of LSS programme will be conducted via bidding and with a bigger scale, to ensure a developer selection process that is transparent and fair, as well as to obtain power generation tariff offers at the most competitive rates.”
This new programme will introduce a new category for floating solar, where a 500MW quota will be available to developers.
An additional renewable energy programme in Malaysia includes the ‘Low Carbon Energy Generation Programme’.
With a 400MW total quota, the programme opens up opportunities for low carbon electricity generation from small-hydro, bio-gas, bio-mass, and hydrogen technologies.
Diversifying renewable energy generation can open up new economic opportunities for developers and deal with intermittencies of generation with certain technologies.
Another 400MW quota will be made available to developers through the Net Energy Mechanism (NEM).
The programme is comprised of 10MW bids for household developers and 300MW for commercial and industrial industries.
Both programmes increase the clean energy supply in Malaysia.
The boom of Malaysia’s renewable energy industry has not only supported the move to Net Zero but has also created 36,000 jobs through the government endorsed ‘Integrated Renewable Energy’ programme.
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by Regan Slaymaker | Feb 29, 2024 | Innovation
Spanish utility company Iberdrola and solar developer IB Vogt have signed an agreement to build a 245MW Solar park in Sicily, Italy.
The Fenix solar plant is expected to begin construction in March and is, according to Iberdrola, to be Italy’s largest solar park once fully operational.
Once built, the project has the potential to generate enough clean electricity for 140,000 homes.
Italy only has 60 solar farms that have more than a 10MW capacity, with the average project equalling 26MW.
The Fenix solar site is a significant indicator of Italy’s commitment to net zero targets. Once operational the site will consist of 424,638 solar panels and will generate 400GwH of electricity per year, preventing 119,000 tonnes of CO2 being omitted.
There are even plans in place to have an additional 60MW of capacity added to the project, bringing the total capacity to 305MW.
The project is not only set to help Italy secure its energy security through home-grown solar but will also improve the countries employment rate.
by Regan Slaymaker | Feb 29, 2024 | Video
It was a pleasure to interview Tina Barnard, Chief Executive at Watford Community Housing, ahead of her participation at Solar&StorageLive London, April 29-30.
Solar&StorageXtra is the new publishing part of the Solar and Storage Live event series where we will be interviewing our esteemed speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and attendees to get their live reactions to the event and the important discussions within the industry.
Tina joined Solar&StorageXtra to discuss the importance of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) and the potential impacts of the Government’s Net Zero cutbacks.
Tina explained the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund is a fund for housing providers to assist properties to reach Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standards and ultimately help them reach Net Zero targets.
The key challenge is raising funds. The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund isn’t a full grant, housing providers must match the funds being given.
Once a certainty on funding is confirmed, more properties will be able to reach EPCC standards.
Tina explained Government’s Net Zero cutbacks could be very detrimental to the community housing sector.
“If we haven’t got that leadership, be it Tory or Labour, in terms of reaching Net Zero… housing providers won’t be able to do anything, neither will consumers.”
Tina highlighted that behavioural change from consumers is less likely to occur if there is no incentive from government, whoever is in charge.
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