Energy Storage

Australian redox-flow battery specialist Redflow has upped the ante on its plans to expand into the US market, announcing that it has completed testing to pave the way for its battery energy storage system to be used in conjunction with hybrid inverters manufactured by US storage technology company Sol-Ark.

Also on the rise: The town of Christiana, population 1,235, is attempting to block construction of 300 MW Wisconsin solar farm. Empire State getting into solar development. US Department of Energy launches partnership to speed interconnection.

The awards represent the largest land-based renewable energy procurement in the state to date, and once installed, will bring the state’s renewable energy mix to 66% renewable, in pursuit of 70% by 2030.

The 42 MW solar and 168 MWh storage facility will help the Navy to make strides toward its goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030.

The Interstate Renewable Energy Council and the International City/County Management Association will share the $10 million award to update and expand SolSmart over the next five years.

Also on the rise: Jigar Shah begins a series on the challenges that come with achieving a zero-carbon electric grid and the role of virtual power plants. The US Navy aims for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. Solar Decathlon opens programs for high school students and professionals.

“Climate change is one of the most destabilizing forces of our time, exacerbating other national security concerns and posing serious readiness challenges,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, in announcing the target.

Also on the rise: Solar farm anticipated to power nearly one-quarter of Philadelphia government buildings. Hydrogren research advances. Californian shares his story on going solar.

North Carolina State University (NCSU) has developed an energy-efficient strategy for room-temperature hydrogen release from liquid hydrogen carriers, which uses less rhodium. Elsewhere in the world, Airbus launched its Zero Emission Development Centre in the UK, Toshiba ESS teamed up with Fusion Fuel to target Australian and European markets, and Corfo signed agreements to finance three renewable hydrogen projects with GNL Quintero, iCAP, and Air Liquide in Chile.

In Texas ERCOT country where batteries cannot send power to the grid, Tesla filed a request for a rule change and has called on Powerwall owners to demonstrate capability by forming a Virtual Power Plant.