Researchers from the University of Virginia have developed a laser-based method to remove backsheets from end-of-life solar modules without damaging the glass or silicon wafers. The process involves controlled heating of the silicon-EVA interface through the front glass, enabling clean mechanical delamination with preserved device performance. This method offers a lower-energy, lower-cost alternative to conventional thermal or chemical recycling methods. The IR-CW laser technology allows for precise thermal activation of the silicon-EVA interface while minimizing stress on surrounding materials. The research team confirmed that the silicon and metallization layers remain intact, with no significant degradation in device performance after laser treatment. This sustainable photovoltaic recycling method supports circular economy strategies for end-of-life solar modules and has low energy consumption and efficient operation, with equipment amortization and electricity costs totaling $0.22 per module.
Category: Electricity & Industry
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Cut Fugitive Emissions
– Shift Production
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15,000 E-Bike Rebates Provided By Ava Community Energy
The benefits of e-bikes in reducing carbon emissions and providing a practical alternative to car trips are highlighted in the article. Ava Community Energy's e-bike program supports local businesses and aims to make clean energy more accessible. E-bikes are becoming a popular choice for households due to their affordability, low maintenance costs, and environmental benefits. The upcoming E-bike Test & Ride event on June 27th at Coliseum BART Station, in partnership with Bike East Bay, aims to provide residents with a hands-on opportunity to experience e-bikes before making a purchase decision. Ava has dispersed 15,021 rebates, with 26% going to income-qualified customers, and customers can choose between Ava and PG&E for electricity generation, with Ava offering service plans that draw primarily from renewable sources.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/13/15000-e-bike-rebates-provided-by-ava-community-energy/
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AI Data Centres Need Big Batteries But Lithium Isn’t Fit-For-Purpose
The biggest constraint facing AI data centre expansion is storage and the unique way they use power, leading to unpredictability in drawing electricity from the grid. Traditional generation sources like coal and nuclear may still be necessary due to the volatile energy demand of AI data centres. Data centres require buffering capacity to reconcile intermittent supply with intermittent demand, with lithium-ion batteries degrading rapidly under constant cycling. Flow batteries offer a solution by allowing energy and power capacity to scale independently, enabling relentless cycling without degradation typical of lithium-ion systems. The world's renewable build-out is accelerating, but most large-scale batteries remain short-duration systems, highlighting the need for innovative storage solutions for AI-driven data centres. Investing in storage technologies designed for high-cycle operation can help harness renewable energy and prevent the reliance on fossil fuel backup, ultimately allowing AI data centers to contribute to a clean energy future.
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Firm solar and storage costs fall to $54/MWh, says IRENA
IRENA's new report highlights the economic and strategic advantages of round-the-clock solar and wind paired with battery storage, showing that they are cheaper than new fossil fuel generation in high-quality resource regions. Firm levelized costs of electricity for solar-plus-storage range from $54/MWh to $82/MWh, compared to $70/MWh to $85/MWh for new coal in China and over $100/MWh for new gas globally. The decreasing capital costs have made dispatchable "anytime" solar electricity commercially viable in regions with high PV potential, allowing for more reliable and consistent renewable energy generation. These advancements in renewable energy systems emphasize their reliability, resilience, and ability to optimize grid connections while reducing price volatility, making them key solutions in the fight against climate change.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/05/06/firm-solar-and-storage-costs-fall-to-54-mwh-says-irena/
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ADB unveils $70bn plan for Asia’s energy and digital infrastructure
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a $70bn Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative to enhance energy and digital infrastructure in Asia and the Pacific by 2035. The initiative aims to connect national and subregional power systems to facilitate the cross-border flow of renewable energy, integrating 20GW of renewable energy and reducing regional power sector emissions by 15%. ADB plans to raise $50bn by 2035 to develop extensive cross-border power infrastructure, prioritizing transmission, grid integration, and renewable energy projects. This initiative will also establish 22,000 circuit-kilometres of transmission lines, enhance energy access for 200 million people, create 840,000 jobs, and involve private sector co-financing alongside ADB's own resources.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/adb-70bn-plan-asias-energy-digital-infrastructure/
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IFC, Norfund back 315 solar hybrid minigrids in Nigeria
The International Finance Corporation and Norfund are providing $83.2 million in financing to develop 315 solar hybrid minigrid sites in Nigeria, aiming to facilitate over 494,000 new electricity connections. This initiative will expand access to reliable electricity, reduce energy costs, strengthen local economies, and enable income generating activities. The Africa Solar Industry Association has identified over 4.8 GW of operational solar in Nigeria, with 115 MW from solar minigrids. IFC also plans to grant Virtuitis $16 million to build and operate 97 solar minigrids, connecting over 140,000 off-grid consumers by 2027.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/05/04/ifc-norfund-back-315-solar-hybrid-minigrids-in-nigeria/
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The energy transition has a rare earth problem: These startups are solving it
The Advanced Electric Machines (AEM) plant in northeastern England and Silicon Valley startup Conifer are leading the way in developing rare earth-free electric motors for electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce supply chain risks and environmental harm associated with rare earth mining. Niron Magnetics is also working on iron-based magnets to decrease manufacturing costs and dependency on Chinese rare earth supplies, with support from major automotive companies and Western governments. The US, Canada, and the European Union are investing in subsidies and research to mine and produce rare earth materials, while also exploring recycling and alternative materials to create a circular supply chain that reduces costs and environmental impact in the production of motors and other technologies.
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Record battery output, big winds push monthly gas generation to lowest level in more than two decades
In April, Queensland led in wind, solar, and battery output, with a notable increase in wind energy generation. The state also achieved a record-breaking month for big batteries, with over 100 GWh discharged by utility-scale battery energy storage systems. Australian utility PV and wind assets collectively generated 4.7 TWh, marking a 24% increase from the previous year. Gas generation across the National Electricity Market decreased by 49%, showcasing the ongoing trend of batteries displacing gas during the evening peak.
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Dominion to open nation’s biggest offshore wind farm next year
Dominion Energy's Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, the largest in the U.S., is moving forward with nine turbines already in the water and plans to have all 176 turbines operational by June 2027. Despite a temporary halt by the Trump administration, construction resumed in January, and the project's estimated cost was reduced to $11.4 billion after the Supreme Court struck down tariffs. Virginia ratepayers are expected to save $5 billion in fuel costs during the first decade of operations, highlighting the significant economic and environmental benefits of this renewable energy initiative.
https://www.eenews.net/articles/dominion-to-open-nations-biggest-offshore-wind-farm-next-year/