Fortescue Metals is making significant progress in its renewable energy plans in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, with the construction of the 440 MW Solomon Airport solar farm and plans for additional solar farms. The company aims to achieve "real zero" emissions by 2030 by focusing on using solar and wind power, along with battery storage, to provide 24/7 firm power for its operations. Fortescue's efforts to reduce reliance on diesel and gas have been proven to be more economical through the use of solar energy. The potential for automation in solar panel installations could further simplify the process and make solar energy more accessible and widespread, contributing to climate solutions in the region.
Category: Electricity & Industry
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Cut Fugitive Emissions
– Shift Production
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The US Offshore Wind Industry Gets An Assist From Singapore
The Empire Wind offshore wind farm off the coast of New York, initially halted by President Trump, is back on track with the use of shuttle models and a Jones-compliant vessel from Singapore for construction. Seatrium has built a new WTIV for the US offshore wind industry, designed to handle large turbines and comply with the Jones Act. Despite challenges, including Trump's attempts to halt projects, the vessel is now in use at the Empire Wind project. The global offshore wind industry is growing, with advancements in technology and construction progressing worldwide, showcasing the potential for renewable energy industries to thrive.
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How women transformed a Vanuatu community with off-grid solar
In Vanuatu, women are facing challenges to their rights, including in climate action, but are organizing in resistance and leading transformative projects like the women-led off-grid solar project in Lawital village on Tanna Island. This initiative has provided electricity to all 115 homes, improving safety, livelihoods, education, and wellbeing. Women have become primary leaders of transformation by mastering technical skills and bringing reliable solar-powered light to their community, revolutionizing education and breaking traditional barriers. The project showcases collective determination and the resilience of women in the face of climate crises, highlighting the importance of supporting women-led initiatives for sustainable change and gender equality. Sustainable funding for such movements is crucial to create lasting impact and promote the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
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Texas Seizes the Solar Crown From California, and Other Key Points From the Latest Electricity Data
Texas has surpassed California as the leader in utility-scale solar generation, producing 58,634 gigawatt-hours in 2025, while California remains ahead in small-scale solar electricity generation. Utility-scale solar was the fastest-growing electricity source in the US last year, increasing by 35 percent, with renewable energy, including wind and hydropower, as the second largest electricity source after natural gas, showing a 9.5 percent increase. Data centers and electrification are driving the trend of total electricity generation from all utility-scale sources increasing by 2.8 percent in 2025. Indiana is increasing its use of coal power despite concerns about costs and environmental impacts, but there is also investment in utility-scale solar projects, such as the Mammoth Solar project. The energy transition is accelerating, with large-scale solar projects becoming more common, highlighting the importance of renewable energy solutions in the face of climate change.
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/05032026/inside-clean-energy-texas-utility-scale-solar/
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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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PPC Group, METLEN sign JVA for 1.5GW BESS projects
PPC Group, METLEN, and Jinko ESS have formed partnerships to develop over 4.5GW/6,000 megawatt-hours of battery energy storage system projects in various European and South American countries. The projects will utilize advanced battery technology to store excess energy from nearby solar and wind parks, aiming to stabilize electricity systems, optimize renewable energy management, and enhance grid reliability. These collaborations align with the companies' strategies to establish a significant presence in energy storage markets and support the transition to cleaner energy sources, ultimately contributing to the maximization of renewable energy contributions and improvement of grid stability.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/ppc-group-metlen-jva-bess-projects/
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Last panel goes up at first solar-battery hybrid project to connect to Australia’s main grid
Australia's first large-scale solar-battery hybrid facility, the Quorn Park Hybrid Solar facility in western NSW, has been completed with the installation of its final panel. The project combines 80 MW of PV generating capacity with a 20 MW, 40 MWh battery, connected to the main grid, aiming to deliver clean energy to power around 45,000 homes in NSW annually. By storing solar energy during the day and dispatching it during evening peaks, the facility is expected to strengthen grid reliability and marks a milestone in Australia's transition towards advanced hybrid renewable energy projects.
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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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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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New state investment vehicle launches with $34 billion renewables push
The New South Wales government has fast-tracked 16 projects worth $34.4 billion, with 13 focused on delivering new renewable energy and storage capacity. The Investment Delivery Authority aims to accelerate planning approvals for these projects to support private sector investment, with the goal of generating enough electricity to power 5.5 million homes and reducing greenhouse emissions by 50% by 2030. Among the selected projects are large-scale wind generation projects and the Port of Newcastle Clean Energy Precinct for hydrogen and ammonia production. Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody expressed commitment to working with the NSW Government on the next phase of the Project, with completion of FEED and EIS studies nearing and positive signs for global investors. The Project's momentum is expected to continue as it moves into the critical phase of approvals.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/new-state-investment-vehicle-launches-with-34-billion-renewables-push/