China urges U.S. to reverse new tariffs on solar, batteries, EVs
China’s Ministry of Commerce has described the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s recent decision to raise tariffs on Chinese solar components, batteries, semiconductors, steel, and EVs as “typical unilateralism and protectionism.” It added that the tariff increases will harm U.S. companies and consumers.
DNV tool predicts hail probability at future solar sites
DNV, an independent energy expert and assurance specialist, has unveiled a service that assesses the probability of hail events at the site of future solar projects across North America, covering a period up to 30 years.
Tigo Energy files patent infringement lawsuit against Chinese company
A unit of US-based Tigo Energy has filed a patent violation lawsuit against Zhejiang Benyi New Energy in the Shanghai Intellectual Property Court, alleging infringement of its rapid shutdown technology.
Canada considers surtax on solar products, batteries from China
The Canadian government has launched a 30-day consultation to determine whether to impose a surtax on solar products, semiconductors, batteries, and battery parts from China. It recently slapped a 100% surtax on Chinese-made electric vehicles.
Kiwa PVEL, Kiwa PI Berlin outline best practices for PV module quality
Kiwa PVEL and Kiwa PI Berlin have published a white paper that uses recent module testing and in-factory data to guide the best use of testing and inspection metrics. The paper aims to ensure that solar modules meet acceptable quality standards.
Oxford PV starts commercial distribution of perovskite solar modules
Oxford PV is delivering its first commercial perovskite solar modules to U.S. customers. The 72-cell solar modules have an efficiency of 24.5% and, according to the company, can generate up to 20% more energy than conventional silicon modules.
Assessing viability of agrivoltaics in corn fields
Researchers from Purdue University have studied the impact of traditional photovoltaic systems and agrivoltaics deployed in corn croplands. They conclude agrivoltaics could offer a viable strategy to ease the current tradeoff between energy production, greenhouse gas emissions, food production and farm profitability.
PV systems can now support grid as fossil fuels decline
A new report by the International Energy Agency’s Photovoltaics Power Systems Programme (IEA-PVPS) says that existing PV systems have the technical capabilities to provide various frequency-related grid services.
World’s highways could host 52.3 billion solar panels, say researchers
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tsinghua University, Chinese Academy of Geosciences, and Columbia University have concluded that solar-covered highways could meet more than 60% of the world’s annual energy needs.
Jera Nex acquires U.S. solar sites from Lightsource bp
Jera Nex has purchased two US solar arrays totaling 395 MW from Lightsource bp. The acquisition marks Jera Nex’s first deal since it launched in April. Lightsource bp will continue to manage assets and provide maintenance services at the projects.
