McGill University researchers utilized deep-learning computer vision to analyze 719 solar projects in the Western U.S., setting a new "land-sparing" benchmark for developers. The study revealed a link between geographic irradiance and land efficiency, showing that sunnier regions and compact system designs result in higher energy density. A global study further emphasized the potential for rooftop solar integration, indicating that targeted policy could make it more cost-effective than ground-mounted systems. These findings underscore the importance of strategic land management and integrating solar into the built environment to help achieve net-zero targets and minimize environmental impact.
Author: Pv Magazine
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Solar, storage to lead record 86 GW of US capacity in 2026
Solar and battery storage are set to account for 79% of 86 GW of new utility-scale capacity planned in the United States in 2026, with analysts projecting one in eight American homes will have solar, many with storage for self-consumption. Distributed small-scale solar generation is increasing, with a focus on integrated energy systems and high battery attachment rates. Renewables and storage are expected to make up 93% of new utility-scale capacity this year, with a significant growth in solar generation. The key focus now is on how quickly the infrastructure can be interconnected to the grid to ensure grid stability and maximize the benefits of these climate solutions.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/26/solar-storage-to-lead-record-86-gw-of-us-capacity-in-2026/
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Bolivia creates net metering scheme for medium-voltage distributed generation
Bolivia's government has approved Supreme Decree 5549, establishing a medium-scale distributed generation category for renewable projects between 1 MW and 6 MW. This decree simplifies procedures for connecting to medium-voltage networks, sets a remuneration scheme for energy injected into the system, and aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the electricity market. It promotes self-consumption, decentralization of generation, and the use of resources such as solar, hydropower, and biomass. Implementation will follow a phased approach, starting with the private sector and later extending to commercial and residential users.
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Google to deploy world’s largest iron-air battery for US data center
Google has partnered with Xcel Energy to implement a 300 MW/30 GWh iron-air battery system in Minnesota, alongside 1.6 GW of new wind and solar energy. Developed by Form Energy, this project aims to offer long-duration energy storage to stabilize intermittent renewables. The iron-air batteries have the capability to store renewables-generated electricity for up to 100 hours, making them a viable alternative to traditional power plants. This initiative is a key component of Google's commitment to decarbonization and meeting the energy needs of the AI era.
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How to protect animals from lightning in agrivoltaics
Researchers in Germany and Costa and her colleagues have identified key lightning risks in livestock-integrated agrivoltaic systems, emphasizing the need for animal-specific earthing designs and protection measures to prevent economic losses for farmers. The studies establish safe step and touch voltage limits under lightning conditions and propose mitigation strategies to reduce hazards to animals. The importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar power, is highlighted as a key climate solution, with government policies and incentives playing a crucial role in promoting adoption. The overall goal is to maintain public acceptance of agrivoltaic concepts by quantifying potential risks and implementing optimized design to limit the impact on the cost of energy.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/24/how-to-protect-animals-from-lightning-in-agrivoltaics/
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How airflow modifications in agrivoltaics affect crop yield, energy output
Research from France shows that PV panel height influences airflow and evapotranspiration in agrivoltaic systems, with heights under 3 meters affecting crops. Scientists emphasize the need for accurate measurements and computational fluid dynamics for water and energy exchanges. Panel height is crucial for determining impact on agricultural yield and energy production. Airflow modifications can significantly affect energy, water, and gas exchanges, as well as photosynthesis. High panels with proper spacing can reduce panel temperature and enhance energy generation. The section discusses a study on an experimental agrivoltaic plant with bifacial PV modules mounted on trackers, showing that soil moisture in the agrivoltaic section remained above field capacity until spring, while the control zone experienced water stress by May. PV panels affected airflow, reducing wind speed and turbulence, with variations depending on panel tilt and wind direction. The researchers emphasized the need for a specific evapotranspiration formulation for agrivoltaic systems, considering panel geometry, airflow, radiation, and plant height, with computational fluid dynamics simulations confirming the qualitative trends observed in the study.
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Deloitte urges India to align renewables with AI data growth
India has the opportunity to become a leading data center hub by aligning policy, grid infrastructure, and renewable deployment. Key challenges include an energy supply gap, grid stability limitations, regulatory differences, and lack of a unified national framework. Recommendations include accelerating renewable integration, expanding green PPAs, upgrading transmission networks, and leveraging AI for energy optimization. Incentivizing decentralized renewable energy models, such as co-located solar and storage infrastructure, can increase access to clean energy, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and make communities more resilient to climate change impacts. Policymakers and stakeholders must support and invest in these sustainable energy solutions to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/23/deloitte-urges-india-to-align-renewables-with-ai-data-growth/
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Amorphous silicon-silicon tandem solar cell achieves 12.3% efficiency via new honeycomb-shaped micro-structures
Researchers at TU Delft have developed a novel hexagonal microtextured glass that enhances light scattering by up to 50%, improving optical performance in thin-film silicon solar cells. The technology shows promise for multijunction, flexible, and low-power solar applications, with high light scattering even at near-infrared wavelengths. The use of hexagonal texturized glass resulted in a photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 9.3% in a single junction nc-Si:H solar cell and 12.3% in an amorphous silicon/nanocrystalline silicon tandem solar cell. The researchers foresee the technology being used in solar cells for consumer electronics, solar-powered sensors, and off-grid low-power applications, offering a potential solution for increasing solar energy efficiency in various settings.
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NexWafe, Talon PV sign 7 GW solar wafer supply agreement
NexWafe has partnered with Talon PV to supply 7 GW of solar wafers for their TOPCon solar cell manufacturing plant in Texas, focusing on improving cell performance with EpiNex substrates. The partnership aims to enhance material quality, reduce oxygen content, and optimize junction engineering for higher efficiency and reliability. NexWafe's EpiNex silicon wafers are manufactured through a gas-to-wafer epitaxy process, reducing energy consumption. Talon PV is establishing a pilot production line at Fraunhofer ISE to conduct initial qualification work with EpiNex wafers, aiming to strengthen domestic content in solar products and develop a resilient Western-aligned supply chain for next-generation photovoltaics.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/20/nexwafe-talon-pv-sign-7-gw-solar-wafer-supply-agreement/
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German consortium launches web guide for BIPV planning
Germany's SolarEnvelopeCenter project has launched a web-based planning guide for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), offering standardized design solutions for roofs and facades that meet building codes and industry standards. The collaboration between research institutes, architects, façade planners, and solar companies has resulted in 15 construction principles for BIPV integration, enabling early incorporation of solar elements in projects. The tool includes an input form and online configurator for refining parameters, with information on available products for each construction principle. Additionally, the German Solar Energy Society has developed training courses for industry professionals to effectively utilize the web-based tool.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/20/german-consortium-launches-web-guide-for-bipv-planning/