Brazil is solidifying its position as a key player in the solar energy market, with a growing demand for flexibility services, energy backup, and integration of renewable energy sources. The role of energy storage in the solar industry was highlighted at Intersolar South America 2026, with major module suppliers showcasing their BESS solutions. Despite an increase in supply, sales of batteries in Brazil have not kept pace, with only about 15% of inverters imported including storage. The December auctions are expected to drive demand for storage, with forecasts of between 4 GW and 5 GW. Partnerships between international suppliers and Brazilian manufacturers are being explored to meet the requirements of the auctions and restore growth in Brazil's solar sector.
Author: Pv Magazine
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ClearVue announces coating breakthrough for energy-generating solar glass
ClearVue Technologies has achieved a manufacturing breakthrough with their Gen 3 solar vision glass units, allowing them to accept high-performance Low-E coatings to control solar heat entering buildings. This development makes energy-generating glass more accessible for commercial projects, as it can now be coated using existing systems. ClearVue is the only BIPV supplier offering this capability while generating renewable energy, allowing architects and engineers to specify performance requirements while incorporating clean energy generation into building design. This advancement is part of ClearVue's efforts to make energy-generating glass a standard commercial practice, contributing to sustainable building solutions.
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Air-source heat pumps with thermal storage cuts upfront costs by 29.7%
A research team from China's Hebei University of Technology has proposed an innovative air-source heat pump coupled energy storage (ASHPCES) system for buildings, which combines an air-source heat pump with thermal energy storage to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and lower operating costs. The system stores thermal energy during off-peak electricity tariff periods and uses it during peak demand hours, resulting in a significant reduction in energy consumption compared to a conventional ASHP system without thermal storage. Using a storage-assisted configuration led to a 21.9 MWh reduction in annual electricity consumption, an 8.8% decrease in carbon emissions, and a 51.4% cut in annual operating costs, with a dynamic payback period of approximately 3.57 years. This approach also reduced the number of heat pump units needed and upfront investment costs, highlighting the benefits of utilizing time-of-use tariffs and peak-valley electricity prices for improved economic and environmental performance.
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SolarWindow launches 0.85 mm-thick, self-adhesive solar film
SolarWindow Technologies has launched ElectroFlex, a thin and flexible solar product with a power conversion efficiency of 24.4% and a power-to-weight ratio of 73 W/kg, suitable for flat and curved surfaces without frames or support structures. Targeted for transportation, marine, aerospace, and architecture sectors, SolarWindow plans to expand sales to North America and Asia. Additionally, the company is developing LiquidElectricity, a transparent coating to generate electricity from glass and plastic surfaces.
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Quinbrook advances plans for polysilicon factory in Australia
Quinbrook-owned Solquartz has partnered with Townsville City Council to construct Australia's inaugural quartz-to-silicon manufacturing complex at Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct. The project encompasses a polysilicon manufacturing plant fueled by solar and battery energy storage, with the Northern Quartz Campus set to generate silicon products for solar panels and other technologies. With an estimated cost of AUD 8 billion, the initiative is slated to begin operations by 2030, with the goal of positioning Townsville as a center for advanced manufacturing powered by renewable energy.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/08/24/quinbrook-advances-plans-for-polysilicon-production-plant/
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Korean scientists unveil 10 kW chemical adsorption heat pump prototype
Researchers from the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials have developed a chemical adsorption heat pump for cooling applications in commercial buildings, factories, and data centers. This system uses waste heat to release refrigerant, which is then condensed and evaporated to provide cooling or heating. The system is primarily driven by waste heat, requiring minimal electricity for auxiliary equipment. It achieved a specific cooling power of 346.5 W/kg and uses ammonia as a natural refrigerant, making it environmentally friendly.
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EU adopts budget-flexibility guidelines for photovoltaics, heat pumps, and BESS
The European Commission has extended the national escape clause for defense to include energy security measures during 2026-2028, allowing flexibility in budgetary spending to support the transition away from fossil fuels and strengthen energy security. Criteria such as additionality, effectiveness, and sustainability of public finances will be considered for accessing this flexibility. Eligible measures include investments in renewable energy, energy storage technologies, nuclear power plants, electric vehicle infrastructure, and building energy renovations. Member States must provide a list of planned energy security measures and estimated costs for approval by the Commission.
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‘Inclusion means judging ideas on their merits’
Janine Wirth, founder of Ilanco GmbH, specializes in physical cable theft prevention for large-scale solar parks. She challenges the industry's reliance on documenting and responding to theft by focusing on preventing the loss event itself. Since Ilanco's first installation in February 2024, not one cable protected by its system has been stolen. Janine advocates for diverse thinking in renewable energy and believes innovation begins with questioning traditional practices. The success of her system demonstrates that innovation can come from different backgrounds and perspectives, emphasizing the importance of judging ideas based on their merits rather than the background of the person presenting them.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/08/21/inclusion-means-judging-ideas-on-their-merits/
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Bangladesh mandates solar charging for millions of electric rickshaws
Bangladesh has mandated the use of solar power for charging the batteries of millions of illegally operated three-wheelers, aiming to reduce pressure on the grid and fuel resources. This transition is expected to create investment opportunities, generate employment, and contribute to green power generation in the country. Industry experts have welcomed the policy as a significant step towards sustainability, with the recommendation to include net metering for its success.
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Solar powerhouse to storage leader
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https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/08/21/solar-powerhouse-to-storage-leader/