Africa's largest off-grid solar-plus-storage project, the Cazombo Photovoltaic Park in Angola, has been successfully launched with 75.26 MWh of battery storage and 25.40 MW of solar power. This project aims to provide electricity to over 136,000 people in the region by relying on solar energy during the day and battery storage at night, completely eliminating the need for fossil fuels. Part of Angola's Rural Electrification Project, the focus is on developing solar power plants with battery storage in off-grid areas. The financing for this innovative project came from British Standard Chartered Bank and German export agency Euler Hermes.
Category: Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Production
– Improve Electrical System
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Construction begins on Engie’s Pelican Point BESS in South Australia
Sungrow and Engie are constructing the Pelican Point grid-forming battery energy storage system (BESS) in South Australia, set to be operational in H2 2027. The 200MW/400MWh BESS will enhance the region's renewable-rich power grid, providing storage, grid stability services, and system resilience for over 29,400 homes. Utilizing Sungrow technologies, the project will support South Australia's energy transition, enabling greater renewable integration and grid flexibility. Additionally, AI-enabled Microgrid Management SystemTM and networked microgrids are being implemented to rebuild the grid for a more flexible, resilient, and sustainable energy future.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/construction-engies-pelican-point-bess/
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World’s first high-power aluminum-ion battery system for energy storage
The INNOBATT project led by the Fraunhofer Institute has developed a lithium-free, high-power aluminum-graphite-dual-ion battery system for energy storage applications. This rechargeable aluminum-ion battery technology offers stability, fast response, and recyclability, with energy densities of 160 Wh/kg and power densities exceeding 9 kW/kg. The system uses easily obtainable materials like aluminum and graphite, providing a cost-effective and non-flammable solution for grid applications. Climate solutions experts can benefit from this new battery system's ability to allow rapid charging and discharging at high C-rates, contributing to sustainable energy storage solutions.
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CATL Expects Oceanic Electric Ships in 3 Years
CATL's marine division is leading the way in providing zero-carbon marine transportation by developing comprehensive battery solutions for electric ships, collaborating with shipping partners, and supplying batteries for over 900 vessels. Recent advancements in sodium-ion battery technology and price drops are making long-range electric shipping more feasible, with a focus on electrifying the maritime sector and removing barriers to widespread maritime electrification.
https://cleantechnica.com/2025/12/05/catl-expects-oceanic-electric-ships-in-3-years/
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M-Tec launches modular propane heat pump for residential, commercial use
Austrian manufacturer M-Tec has launched a new residential propane heat pump system with a heating capacity of up to 26 kW, expandable to 78 kW with an electric heating element for peak loads. This system is versatile, compatible with different heat sources like geothermal energy, groundwater, and photovoltaic-thermal modules. It also integrates with M-Tec's energy management platform, offering features like variable electricity tariffs and self-consumption optimization for efficient and sustainable heating solutions.
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IEA: Slow energy transition would cost millions of jobs
The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that a slower shift to clean energy could result in 1.3 million fewer energy sector jobs by 2035, with continued growth in oil and gas demand until 2050 under the Current Policies Scenario (CPS). However, a faster energy transition could create more jobs in construction, electricians, solar panel installers, and transition mineral miners. The IEA also highlights potential shortages of skilled workers in key areas like electricity grids and the nuclear industry, urging governments to train workers for these roles to ensure a smooth transition to clean energy. Additionally, the establishment of the Belém Action Mechanism at COP30 aims to make the energy transition fairer for workers in industries like oil and gas, giving trade unions a role in shaping just transition policies for the first time. This is seen as a decisive win for the union movement and workers in transition industries.
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Sulfur battery innovator clears key milestone to commercialisation – and to compete with li-ion
Gelion, an Australian energy storage innovator, has achieved a key milestone in its sulfur battery technology, demonstrating stable cycling and high energy density performance in coin cells. This advancement brings the technology closer to commercialization and competitiveness with lithium-ion batteries, offering advantages such as operating at high temperatures without air-conditioning, dischargeable to zero volts, and being more energy dense and longer-lasting than lead-acid batteries. The company has raised funds, acquired patents, and formed partnerships to further develop its sulfur battery technology for applications in e-aviation, electric mobility, and stationary storage. This development has the potential to revolutionize energy storage in various industries, including automotive, industrial, and consumer technology, making it a promising solution for a sustainable future.
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Offshore wind farms could be used as charging hubs for electric and hybrid ships
Two Danish companies are exploring the integration of offshore wind with marine electrification to reduce vessel-related greenhouse gas emissions. Stillstrom, a leader in marine technology, aims to provide offshore power and charging solutions for battery powered vessels. A joint white paper with the Port of Roenne on the Danish island of Bornholm will explore how offshore wind can support charging solutions for electric ferries and cargo vessels. Bornholm, designated as an energy island, is central to one of the busiest shipping corridors in Europe and plans to build offshore wind farms to support maritime electrification. The concept of "energy islands" as hubs for offshore power transmission is discussed, with estimates of 17 terawatt-hours of electricity needed for battery-powered vessels. This transition could save €2 billion in oil imports and reduce marine gas oil emissions. The Port of Roenne sees itself as well-positioned to contribute to the infrastructure needed for maritime electrification, including ferry and cruise vessel charging. Energy Island Bornholm is seen as a valuable opportunity to understand future maritime energy needs and support the wider transition to clean energy in Europe's shipping corridors.
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Vertical PV system at Japanese parking lot operating under PPA
As climate solutions experts, it is crucial to stay informed on the latest developments in addressing climate change. This includes advancements in renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, as well as initiatives to reduce carbon emissions from industries and transportation. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals is key to implementing effective climate solutions and achieving global climate goals. It is important to prioritize sustainable practices and policies that will lead to a more resilient and environmentally-friendly future.
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Environmental News Network – Climate-Friendly Metals From Deep-Sea Ores
Manganese nodules found in the deep sea could provide critical metals needed for the energy transition with low CO2 emissions, as the demand for metals increases with the electrification of industrial processes, transport, and heat generation. Deep-sea mining of manganese nodules offers a more sustainable solution compared to land-based mining, which has negative environmental impacts. A new process developed by the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials utilizes hydrogen for reduction, significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to traditional methods. This innovative approach to sourcing critical metals could play a key role in advancing climate solutions and promoting a more sustainable energy transition.
https://www.enn.com/articles/77529-climate-friendly-metals-from-deep-sea-ores