Bifacial PV modules are going mainstream but more field data is needed — and NREL is on the case
Getting the most out of a bifacial module requires a rethink at almost every level of system design and the industry is hungry for field data generated by such systems to better inform energy yield modeling and define the best approaches to maximizing yield at minimal cost. NREL’s three-year study into bifacial performance is beginning to yield results.
Lessons to be learned from Italy’s alleged PV recycling fraud
The alleged resale in developing countries of solar modules sent for end-of-life recycling in Sicily could have an important lesson for the PV industry: select reliable recycling entities to avoid potential trouble further down the line. The PV industry should also avoid another potential risk, that of the illegal disposal of PV waste outside the EU.
City of Charlotte, Duke Energy agree to milestone power contract
Charlotte has become the first municipality to come to terms with Duke on a solar contract through the new Green Source Advantage program.
ESA: More records set for US energy storage installs in Q4, massive growth forecasted
“2019 was a remarkable year for energy storage and the record-breaking fourth quarter numbers reaffirm the industry’s tremendous growth.”
Hanergy subsidiary Solibro Hi-Tech is liquidated
No potential investor could be found to take over the thin-film solar business. Insolvency proceedings started a few days ago and the business operations of the CIGS thin-film company were finally halted.
Morning Brief: West Virginia legislature votes down bill to legalize solar PPAs, documentary on Alaskan PV microgrid
Also in the brief: Outback Power releases AC coupling feature for Skybox hybrid inverter, BP Solar customers can be compensated for faulty panels, Martha’s Vineyard considers 100% renewable by 2040, and more.
GAF Energy, part of the world’s largest roofer: The time is now for building integrated PV and solar roofs
GAF Energy’s president, Martin DeBono: “I think that Tesla has it absolutely right. They’re playing the long game, as are we. The industry will evolve from rack-mounted to BIPV.”
Aurora Solar software helps navigate the building code in new reality of the California solar mandate
The mandate means that “solar has to be moved up in front of the design process. You have to plan for a PV system before you start building.”
Morning Brief: Molten aluminum energy storage, Tesla looking for PV and storage project managers based in China
Also in the brief: Virginia Clean Economy Act, Utah’s residential solar future in the hands of its PSC and solar-powered irrigation in India
Germany’s electricity generation was 60% renewable in February — with wind power replacing lignite usage
Wind power generated 45.8% of German electricity in February. Solar power contributed 4.2%, while lignite usage hit a new low.
