Cornell University researchers have developed an integrated control framework for agrivoltaic systems that optimizes solar panel tilt angles based on past and future conditions. This framework combines proactive decision-making with reactive strategies to maximize energy production while meeting crop light requirements, outperforming existing methods by reducing light deficits in crops and increasing energy production. The framework is designed to be adaptable across different crops, climates, and system configurations, making it a valuable tool for software developers and solar operators. This solution, outlined in the journal Solar Energy, aims to improve the efficiency of combining agriculture and solar energy production, even in regions with challenging, cloudy climates, making agrivoltaics more viable and scalable.
Category: Electricity & Industry
Cut Emissions:
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AI model uses cloud type and cover to predict solar power swings
A machine learning model, originally trained in Oklahoma, was tested at 15 global sites and showed strong generalizability in predicting rapid changes in surface solar irradiance caused by moving clouds. The model can forecast solar "ramp" events crucial for grid stability, with modifications made for different locations to enhance accuracy. Overall, the model performed well across sites, with half matching or exceeding the original model's predictive performance. A study published in Solar Energy found that most sites have similar or better predictability of solar variability, although extreme environments like mountains, deserts, tropics, and high latitudes showed lower predictability. Collaboration between the University of Colorado Boulder, NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory, and NOAA Global Systems Laboratory contributed to this research.
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North Sea license and onshore fracking bans to be enshrined in UK law
The U.K. is implementing an Energy Independence Bill that will prohibit fracking for gas on land and new fossil fuel exploration in the North Sea, while also addressing delays in power line construction and establishing a Warm Homes Agency for solar and energy-efficiency initiatives. The bill will also offer support to low-income households struggling with energy bills. Furthermore, a Nuclear Regulation Bill is set to be introduced to streamline the process of constructing nuclear reactors.
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Two huge UK offshore wind projects win planning consent
The UK government has approved the development of the Dogger Bank South and North Falls offshore wind farms by RWE, contributing to the expansion of renewable energy sources in the UK. These offshore wind farms are crucial in transitioning to a more sustainable energy system and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, helping to combat climate change. The approval of these projects demonstrates the government's commitment to meeting climate targets and promoting clean energy solutions.
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JinkoSolar, Masdar sign 2GW PV module supply agreement
JinkoSolar and Masdar have signed a supply agreement for 2GW of Tiger Neo photovoltaic modules for Abu Dhabi's round-the-clock renewable energy project, which combines a 5.2GW solar PV plant with a 19GW-hour battery energy storage system to deliver continuous renewable energy output. The collaboration aims to address the challenge of intermittency in renewable energy and support the UAE's clean energy goals, providing large-scale baseload renewable energy at competitive rates and serving as a benchmark for global zero-carbon power production. This agreement further develops their strategic relationship in the Middle East's renewable energy market, showcasing a significant step towards sustainable and reliable energy solutions.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/jinkosolar-masdar-sign-pv-agreement/
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French and African leaders announce $11 billion in renewable energy for Africa
French and African leaders have announced over $11 billion in renewable energy investments in Africa, including projects such as sustainable aviation fuel, hydropower, solar energy, wind generation, and clean cooking initiatives. Companies like TotalEnergies, EDF, Kenya Airways, and Rubis Energy are participating in these initiatives, reflecting global competition for influence in Africa's emerging green economy. African governments are seeking renewable energy financing to expand electricity access while steering clear of high-carbon development pathways. These commitments highlight the importance of sustainable energy solutions in addressing climate change and promoting economic growth in Africa.
https://apnews.com/article/france-africa-renewable-energy-cdc794ac12d3c1cca1c9ebe50ff6b9f5
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Datang plans 14.6 GW renewables cluster in China
A massive renewable energy complex is planned in China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region to deliver clean electricity to Jiangsu province. The project, led by Datang (Ordos) Energy Development Co., Ltd., includes 8 GW of solar, 4 GW of wind, 2.04 GW/8.16 GWh of energy storage, and 2.64 GW of coal-fired power, with a total installed capacity of 14.64 GW and a planned investment of about CNY 58.1 billion. Scheduled for phased development from 2026 to 2030, the project aims to reduce renewable curtailment to below 1%, with the first batch of wind and solar capacity expected to be connected to the grid in 2027. By 2030, the project is expected to deliver over 40 TWh of electricity annually to Jiangsu, with renewable power accounting for more than 60% of the total.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/05/14/datang-plans-14-6-gw-renewables-cluster-in-china/
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€1 Billion To Be Invested In German Electric Truck Charging
The German Ministry of Transport is investing €1 billion over four years to develop more commercial electric truck charging infrastructure in Germany, aiming to have 80% clean, renewable electricity by 2030 and eventually be at zero emissions. Electric trucks produce no greenhouse gas emissions or toxic air pollution, making them a better option for both climate change and human health. This investment in electrifying the German road freight market is a positive move towards a more sustainable future, showcasing the benefits of energy efficiency and cost savings in transitioning away from internal combustion engine vehicles and phasing out coal entirely.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/13/e1-billion-to-be-invested-in-german-electric-truck-charging/
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Solar farms can help to regenerate land while generating energy, new study finds
A new study analyzing 147 individual studies has shown that solar farms have regenerative effects on degraded land by reducing wind speeds, lowering surface and soil temperatures, and increasing soil moisture. Solar power was found to have positive impacts on the environment compared to fossil fuels, with solar farms significantly reducing wind speeds and albedo across different surface types. The majority of solar farms studied were located in arid climate conditions, with the largest number in China, the United States, and India. Solar farms were also found to significantly reduce soil temperature by 2.42°C and increase soil water content by 38.60%, particularly on cropland and grassland. These findings highlight the potential of solar farms to positively influence soil conditions in agricultural and grassland areas.
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Environmental News Network – UC Irvine Team Identifies Where Renewable Hydrogen Delivers the Greatest Social Benefit
Renewable electrolytic hydrogen, produced from wind and solar sources, has been identified as most beneficial for decarbonizing hard-to-electrify industries such as steelmaking, transoceanic shipping, and heavy-duty trucking. A study by UC Irvine researchers shows that transitioning to clean energy in these sectors can significantly reduce climate damage, improve air quality, and enhance human health. Policymakers and industry leaders can utilize this data-driven framework to prioritize hydrogen investments for maximum public benefit. Despite barriers such as high production costs, energy requirements, and limited supply, the potential of renewable hydrogen to decarbonize these sectors remains promising. This study underscores the importance of renewable hydrogen in addressing the challenges of climate change in hard-to-electrify industries and transportation.