Giv Robotics and Civ Robotics are utilizing AI-powered navigation systems at solar parks in the US to streamline construction processes and combat labor shortages in the solar sector. CivNav, a GPS sensor box mounted on construction machines, provides operators with precise guidance for the placement of piles, pallets, and PV modules with up to 5 cm accuracy, eliminating the need for manual surveying. This technology has the potential to accelerate construction timelines, reduce staff requirements, and generate daily reports with real-time operational data to help managers identify bottlenecks. Civ Robotics' innovative solutions have already contributed to over 20 GW of solar projects worldwide and are being utilized by major companies in the industry.
Category: Buildings & Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Energy Sources
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More US States Are Promoting Balcony Solar
Balcony solar is a concept that allows apartment dwellers to generate their own electricity by hanging solar panels on their balcony railings, democratizing the energy supply and reducing utility bills. States like Utah, New York, and Pennsylvania are passing legislation to allow for the installation of balcony solar systems, seen as a game changer for renters and low-income individuals. Despite some utility companies' hesitancy due to grid issues and threats to their business model, the growing interest in balcony solar systems at the state level is a response to federal negativity towards clean energy. Legislation exempting balcony solar systems from interconnection agreements with utility companies, along with a typical break-even point of around 3 years, is expected to make balcony solar more accessible in the future.
https://cleantechnica.com/2025/12/01/more-us-states-are-promoting-balcony-solar/
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Building the perfect perovskite, one layer at a time
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a precise layer-by-layer vapor-phase growth method for halide perovskites, specifically CsPbBr3, on a 2D perovskite single crystal. This advancement could lead to more thermally stable perovskite solar cells, with scalable, solvent-free, and industrially compatible processes suitable for various optoelectronic applications. The research also demonstrated that uniform thickness control allows for tunable band offsets, improving charge transport and recombination dynamics. The team is now focused on integrating these structures into fully functioning devices such as solar cells and LEDs, offering promising solutions for advancing renewable energy technologies.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2025/12/02/building-the-perfect-perovskite-one-layer-at-a-time/
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Ethio Telecom Expands Its EV Charging Network with the Launch of a Third Super-Fast Smart Station in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia has made significant strides in promoting electric vehicles by restricting the import of internal combustion engine vehicles and investing in electric vehicle infrastructure. The country has seen a surge in electric vehicle registrations, with over 60% of new vehicle registrations being electric in 2024. Ethiopia's energy mix is already over 90% sourced from renewables, with projects like the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam contributing clean electricity. Ethio Telecom has launched electric vehicle charging hubs with ultra-fast and super-fast chargers to support the growing electric vehicle ecosystem in the country. This transition to electric vehicles and renewable energy not only helps reduce emissions and improve air quality but also frees up scarce foreign currency resources by substituting imported fossil fuels with locally generated clean electricity, showcasing that electrification is not just happening in Europe but also in countries heavily dependent on fossil fuel imports like Ethiopia.
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Another EV Charging Hub Running On Renewable Energy Launches In California
Terawatt Infrastructure has launched a new fleet charging hub in Rialto, California, with 18 fast chargers for fleet vehicles powered by 100% renewable energy. The hub includes amenities like a driver lounge, license plate recognition for seamless entry, and 24/7 security, part of Terawatt's vision to create a connected, electrified network for EV fleets. Solar power canopies at the hub generate electricity, provide shade, and protect vehicles from precipitation, contributing to emissions reduction. The installation of new EV chargers not only benefits the environment by reducing harmful air pollution but also creates jobs in the EV industry, with Southern California employing 119,200 workers in the sector.
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Historic icons, modern energy: Why heritage buildings need solar roofing
Historic buildings in the UK are facing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, with sustainable retrofits like LED lighting and heat pumps being easily implemented. However, solar technology integration faces challenges due to visual impact, despite UK heritage guidance allowing for solar integration. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solar roofs offer a solution by blending into the architecture, as seen in examples like York Minster, Westminster Abbey, and Canterbury Cathedral. Roofit.Solar CEO Andres Anijalg emphasizes the importance of marrying historic buildings with modern climate solutions, showcasing the potential for genuine, scaled climate leadership that protects both the history of buildings and the planet they stand on.
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All-perovskite tandem solar cell with dipolar passivation achieves 30.1% efficiency
Researchers in China have developed a dipolar passivation method that reduces defects and improves charge transport in solar cells based on narrow-bandgap tin lead perovskite, enabling the fabrication of all-perovskite tandem solar cells with efficiencies of around 30% and enhanced stability. The dipolar passivation strategy strengthens the ohmic contact, promotes efficient hole injection into the hole transport layer, and repels electrons from the perovskite interface, reducing non-radiative recombination and carrier transport losses. The cell achieved a power conversion efficiency of 24.9% and retained around 87% of its initial efficiency after 1,025 hours, showing promising long-term stability. The researchers aim to further improve the dipolar passivation method for enhanced stability in tandem devices, contributing to the ongoing efforts to develop more efficient and sustainable solar energy solutions.
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1.48GWh storage partnership to drive Europe’s energy transition forward
EVE Energy and Vimab BESS AB have signed a three-year MoU to deploy 1.48 gigawatt-hours of energy storage projects in Northern Europe to enhance energy security and support the energy transition. The collaboration aims to address the need for grid flexibility in renewable-rich Nordic markets as wind and solar power capacity grows. Large-scale storage is seen as crucial for stabilizing prices and ensuring reliable power supply. EVE Energy will supply battery systems and technical support for projects in Sweden and neighboring countries, with the first orders set for delivery in December. The partnership focuses on advancing carbon neutrality and energy efficiency in Europe through localized cooperation.
https://www.modernpowersystems.com/news/1-48-gwh-partnership-to-drive-energy-transition-forward/
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Environmental News Network – 3-D Printing Researchers Develop Fast-Curing, Environmentally Friendly Concrete Substitute
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a quick-setting, environmentally friendly alternative to concrete for 3-D printing homes and infrastructure, aiming to address the global housing crisis and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cement. This innovation could help speed up construction projects by eliminating the long curing time and structural supports required for traditional concrete, potentially making a significant impact on the 8% of global emissions attributed to cement production. Climate solutions experts should take note of this promising development in sustainable construction materials.
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Joined up sustainable transition (JUST): Fossil fuel generators
Gold Standard is consulting on a new methodology for replacing fossil fuel generators with renewable energy systems, such as solar PV, wind power, and energy storage technologies, to reduce emissions. This transition aligns with Just Transition requirements and helps displace electricity generated from fossil fuels like diesel and natural gas. The methodology can be applied to off-grid communities, commercial facilities, and residential buildings relying on fossil fuel generators for power, providing a sustainable solution for reducing emissions and promoting clean energy alternatives.
https://www.goldstandard.org/consultations/just-fossil-fuel-generators-consultation