Canadian researchers have proposed an open-source solar module design using polycarbonate instead of traditional materials, allowing for easy disassembly and reuse of solar cells. The design enables local manufacturing with accessible DIY tools, reducing barriers for community-level fabrication and repair. The polycarbonate encapsulation technique is scalable, lightweight, and requires only mechanical separation for recycling. With a focus on low embodied energy and durability, the prototype module can generate 2.12 W under sunny conditions at a cost of $3.11/W, potentially reduced to $0.06-0.30/W with recycled materials and industrial-scale prices. Future work includes scaling the design, optimizing materials, and testing for long-term durability, as detailed in a study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production.
Author: Pv Magazine
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Small 24/7 clean power commitments could cut costs for long-duration storage
Early demand for 24/7 carbon-free electricity is driving the adoption of advanced energy technologies, reducing costs and making clean power commercially viable. Companies like Google are investing in this initiative, bridging the gap between early investment and commercial viability for emerging clean energy technologies. By committing to 24/7 clean power procurement, companies can incentivize the development of newer energy generation and storage technologies, leading to a virtuous cycle of investment and technological learning. This approach not only reduces emissions but also helps advanced technologies become more cost competitive, with studies showing significant cost reductions for technologies like lithium-ion batteries and iron-air batteries driven by carbon-free energy commitments.
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Photovoltaics for cattle dung gasification
An international team of researchers has developed a solar PV system that efficiently converts cattle dung into syngas, reducing CO2 emissions and demonstrating a net energy recovery of 40.17%. The system has a payback period of 3.75 years and can generate annual revenue of 98,703 PKR ($352.1) at a processing capacity of 5 kg/day. Gasification at 800 C was found to produce optimal syngas yields and is scalable for larger CAFOs. The study highlights the importance of system utilization, operational factors, and maintenance in determining the overall feasibility of biomass energy systems. Further research will focus on scaling up the system, optimizing syngas yield, and evaluating its performance in different environmental conditions.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/09/photovoltaics-for-cattle-dung-gasification/
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Tunisia ussues tender for 300 MW solar plant with 150 MW/540 MWh storage
Tunisia is making significant strides in its renewable energy sector with the issuance of a tender for a 300 MW solar plant with storage, the country's first solar-plus-storage project located near Kébili. Independent power producers have until October 14 to submit offers, as Tunisia aims to reach 1 GW of operational solar capacity with the commissioning of a 120 MW solar project by Amea Power. The government has also granted licenses for four new utility-scale projects totaling 500 MW under a renewable energy tender, highlighting Tunisia's commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure.
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The Hydrogen Stream: bp and Iberdrola set to commission Spain’s largest project
BP, Iberdrola, Moeve, Hyundai Motor Group, ITM, RWE, and Snam are all making significant strides in the development of green hydrogen projects and hydrogen technologies. With projects nearing completion in Spain, final investment decisions being approved, and commitments to develop hydrogen infrastructure in Germany and South Korea, these companies are paving the way for a more sustainable future. From setting up advanced AI and hydrogen technology hubs to shipping final batches of stacks for electrolyzer plants, these efforts are crucial in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Snam's commitment of €200 million by 2030 to develop a hydrogen backbone using existing gas pipelines further demonstrates the growing momentum towards climate solutions in the energy sector.
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BYD unveils EB batteries that can recharge in 10 minutes
BYD has unveiled new EV batteries that can recharge in 10 minutes, with the ability to charge from 10% to 70% in 5 minutes and from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes. The second generation Blade Battery can deliver a driving range of 777 km and extend the range of premium models beyond 1,000 km. The batteries have passed China's national safety standards and will be included in ten new BYD models. The company's FLASH Charging network, which currently includes 4,000 stations, will expand to 20,000 by the end of 2026, with 2,000 stations located on highways. This advancement in EV battery technology and charging infrastructure is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting the adoption of electric vehicles as a key climate solution.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/06/byd-unveils-eb-batteries-that-can-recharge-in-10-minutes/
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AI energy management system to unlock VPP potential
UNSW researchers are collaborating with Aussie Solar Batteries to develop AI-driven energy management platforms for optimizing solar and battery systems to support virtual power plant deployment. The project aims to improve grid stability, lower costs, and unlock greater value from distributed energy assets through forecasting, demand-side management, optimization algorithms, and digital-twin modeling. The partnership is part of the TRaCE initiative funded by the Australian government to fast-track advanced clean-energy technologies. The project, scheduled to run until the end of 2026, focuses on accelerating the commercial readiness of smarter batteries and AI-driven energy systems for more efficient solar and battery networks in Australia.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/05/ai-energy-management-system-to-unlock-vpp-potential/
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Moldova installs 315 MW of solar in 2025
In 2025, Moldova saw a significant increase in solar deployment, adding 315.7 MW of capacity and bringing the total to 710 MW, accounting for 72% of the country's installed renewables. The country held its first renewables auction, oversubscribed with 11 winners receiving fixed-price guarantees for solar projects. Moldova also supports smaller-scale solar installations, with 408 MW deployed under state support. To meet its commitments under the Energy Community Treaty and National Energy and Climate Plan, Moldova approved Government Decision No.599/2025, outlining capacity limits and quotas for renewables through 2030, while also requiring financial guarantees for grid connection permits and introducing guarantees of origin certificates for renewable energy sources.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/03/moldova-installs-315-mw-of-solar-in-2025/
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UK government issues open call for experts to shape AI energy policy
The UK government is seeking AI and energy specialists to identify datasets that can enhance the efficiency, security, and digitization of the energy system. Access to high-quality data is essential for leveraging AI to drive efficiencies and transform operations, with applications such as grid optimization and predicting renewable generation. The call aims to address barriers to accessing data for AI applications in the energy sector, focusing on reducing costs, improving energy security, and supporting economic growth. Companies developing AI and digital products for the energy sector are encouraged to apply and share their expertise to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/03/uk-government-open-call-for-evidence-ai-energy-policy-data/
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US energy storage shatters records with 58 GWh installed in 2025
In 2025, the US energy storage industry experienced a record-breaking year with 57.6 GWh of new capacity installed, showing a 30% increase from the previous year. The utility-scale segment was the main growth driver, contributing nearly 50 GWh, while residential storage also saw a significant surge. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Benchmark Mineral Intelligence report pointed out a "red state" boom in clean energy infrastructure. This surge in energy storage installations signifies a new era of sustained, high-volume deployment in the industry, showcasing promising progress towards climate solutions.