Researchers from the University of Exeter evaluated the potential for integrating floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems with green hydrogen production on UK reservoirs, specifically at Killington and Drift Reservoirs. The study found that hydrogen utilization for heat production offers the greatest potential due to fewer energy conversion losses. Maximum FPV deployment could generate significant amounts of electricity and hydrogen, while also conserving water through reduced evaporation beneath the floating PV arrays. This research highlights the potential for FPV systems to contribute to both renewable energy generation and water conservation, emphasizing their role in decarbonizing energy-consuming sectors in the UK.
Author: Pv Magazine
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EU approves 45 GW energy storage target in bid to reduce gas exposure
The European Council and Commission have signed agreements to significantly increase energy storage deployment in EU member states, aiming to reach 200 GW of storage capacity by 2030. The deals involve various stakeholders, including public sector, financial institutions, clean energy developers, and industrial energy offtakers, to create an investment climate for long-term economic growth. Multinational investors like the EIB Group and EBRD are also increasing support for energy storage projects. This tripartite agreement with renewable energy project developers will drive implementation of energy storage projects and strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy, with member states committing to national capacity pledges. Energy Storage Europe has welcomed these agreements as a crucial step towards recognizing the importance of energy storage at the EU level.
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The virtual power plant era has arrived
Homeowners across the United States are participating in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) to earn money and assist the electric grid during peak times, with companies like Sunrun, Tesla, and Renew Home pooling the energy-saving capabilities of 9 million American homes. The total U.S. VPP market is expected to reach nearly 40 GW by mid-2025, solving regional capacity shortfalls and rivaling traditional power plants. In Puerto Rico, a network of 70,000 Tesla residential battery systems helped mitigate disruptions during grid emergencies, showcasing the potential of decentralized solutions like residential battery systems in ensuring reliable and affordable electricity. Residents are receiving financial rewards for participating in these programs, with enrollment becoming more automatic and less complicated.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/29/the-virtual-power-plant-era-has-arrived/
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Pilot study targets solar and battery access for apartments
UNSW Canberra, Voltval, and JT Solar Technology are collaborating on a pilot study in Sydney to test an AI-powered modular power portal system aimed at improving energy flow between apartments. The project, supported by a grant from the Australian Department of Education, seeks to address the lack of rooftop solar access for apartment dwellers and regulatory hurdles for balcony solar systems. By increasing the use of renewable energy and lowering operating costs for participating buildings, the initiative aims to contribute to a more resilient and inclusive energy future. The advanced AI layer developed by UNSW Canberra researchers will make the platform smarter and more efficient, ultimately benefiting the environment and advancing sustainable energy solutions.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/26/pilot-study-targets-solar-and-battery-access-for-apartments/
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MIT-WPU researchers develop solar thermal battery for hot water supply after sunset
Researchers at MIT World Peace University have developed a solar thermal energy storage system using a phase change material-based thermal battery to provide hot water even after sunset. The system combines a Scheffler solar concentrator with a thermal storage capsule containing paraffin wax, capable of storing and releasing large amounts of heat. This technology aims to reduce dependence on electricity and fossil fuels for water heating applications, reaching Technology Readiness Level 7. Seeking collaborations for pilot deployment and commercialization, the next phase involves field trials, performance optimization, and scale-up for various sectors including residential water heating, industrial process heating, and off-grid rural communities.
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Virtual home-energy trading study lowers costs, boosts access to clean power
Deakin University conducted a trial on a virtual energy network (VEN) that allows households and small businesses to buy and sell solar and battery power, involving 300 sellers and buyers from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The project aims to create a more inclusive and flexible energy system in Australia, supporting the transition to net zero emissions by enabling people with solar power to sell their surplus energy and helping more Australians access clean energy. The initiative is supported by Energy Locals, Enosi's Powertracer software, and funded through Energy Consumers Australia's Grants Program, resulting in cheaper electricity rates and providing a pathway for consumers without solar panels.
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Agrivoltaics in Italy: Sowing the seeds of change
Italy is gaining recognition for its leadership in agrivoltaics, with innovative projects attracting international attention. Despite new laws not leading to a significant increase in deployment, the country continues to develop projects that combine solar energy with agriculture. This trend showcases Italy's commitment to sustainable solutions for both energy production and food cultivation. Climate solutions experts should take note of Italy's progress in this area and the potential for further advancements in agrivoltaics.
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Penumbra-aware irradiance modeling for agrivoltaic orchards
Researchers at Delft University of Technology have developed a Python framework to improve light-simulation workflows for agrivoltaics, focusing on realistic representations of atmospheric conditions and crop geometry. This advancement enhances predictions for crop yield and solar energy production in shared land-use systems, reducing design uncertainty and supporting sustainable food-energy integration. The framework includes site-specific sun and sky spectra across the entire solar spectrum, rendering soft shadows efficiently for crops under semi-transparent PV modules. A new model for agrivoltaic orchards was also developed to optimize sunlight penetration for both crops and solar panels, resulting in a 16% increase in energy production compared to traditional setups. This research, published in the journal Applied Energy, highlights the importance of accurate canopy representation for optimizing light levels and mitigating suboptimal conditions in agrivoltaic systems.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/06/23/penumbra-aware-irradiance-modeling-for-agrivoltaic-orchards/
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Boron nitride nanotubes move lithium ions 31 times faster than expected
Researchers from Rutgers University and the University of Illinois Chicago have developed boron nitride membranes that can transport lithium ions 31 times faster than standard diffusion, as published in Nature Nanotechnology. These membranes can power small electronics using salt-solution gradients, with high power densities and energy-conversion efficiency. Potential applications include lithium recovery from waste batteries and blue energy generation from salt and fresh water convergence.
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Australia’s hybrid projects serving as blueprint for global energy transition
Fluence, a US-based energy storage specialist, highlights Australia as a test bed for hybrid projects combining solar and battery storage behind a shared grid connection. The country's first large-scale solar-battery hybrid facility in New South Wales is setting the standard for future clean power models in the National Electricity Market (NEM). Data shows that all utility-scale solar projects committed in the NEM for 2027 and 2028 are paired with battery energy storage systems (BESS). Co-locating BESS with renewable generation is essential in Australia to ensure grid stability and reliability as renewable penetration increases. The risks associated with integrating solar and battery energy storage systems in Australia are primarily related to meeting Generator Performance Standards (GPS) set by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). Fluence offers advanced system modelling and AI bidding software to mitigate these risks and ensure maximum value for customers. Long-term financial viability of these hybrid systems depends on technological innovation, market design, and operational excellence. Australia is seen as a global pioneer in testing and implementing solar and BESS models due to high levels of rooftop solar, a dynamic energy market, and supportive government policies. The country serves as a blueprint for the energy transition and provides a fertile ground for testing and proving the value of these systems at scale. Investors in Australia's renewable energy sector are seeking long-term policy certainty, stable revenue streams, and confidence in technology and partners. A clear national energy policy supporting renewables and energy storage is crucial. BESS technology is expected to rapidly evolve in the next five years, with advancements in system intelligence and software controls. Integrated BESS and solar assets are seen as key in meeting the energy demand from AI and data centers, supporting the growth of new industries and unlocking the full potential of a renewable-powered grid.