Researchers at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland and a collaborative team from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National University of Singapore, University of Ioannina, and Politecnico di Milano have made significant advancements in perovskite solar cell technology. By incorporating rubidium (Rb) into the perovskite lattice structure, they were able to enhance stability and efficiency, achieving champion efficiency levels of 25.77% and 20.65% respectively. The introduction of Rb+ cations at grain domain boundaries and the lattice strain approach led to improved carrier diffusion length, lifetime, and suppression of halide phase segregation. These developments mark a promising step forward in the quest for more efficient and stable solar energy solutions.
Category: Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Production
– Improve Electrical System
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Tata Power Commissions 1.4-Gigawatt Solar Farm Just Before Year End
Tata Power has commissioned a 1.4 GW solar power plant in Rajasthan, India, the largest they have ever built, expected to produce 2.454 TWh of electricity annually. The power will be distributed to Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, utilizing bifacial modules and high-performance inverters for efficiency. Developed under the CPSU Scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, this project showcases a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in the region.
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SPC commences operations at Japan’s first commercial floating wind project
Japan's first floating offshore wind project, the Goto Offshore Wind Farm, has commenced commercial operations, utilizing a hybrid spar-type floater and engaging local companies in construction and maintenance. The electricity produced will be prioritized for retail electricity providers, promoting renewable energy and benefiting local communities. The project, initiated in 2019, officially launched commercial operations in 2026, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in Japan.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/spc-japans-first-wind-project/
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Google acquires Intersect Power for nearly $5 billion
Google has acquired Intersect Power for nearly $5 billion to develop solar and storage projects for its AI data centers, aiming to bypass grid bottlenecks and scale rapidly with energy parks co-locating data centers with generation and storage assets. With $15 billion in assets, Intersect Power plans to have 10.8 GW of capacity by 2028. Google's energy park development strategy, including the Quantum Clean Energy Project in Texas, focuses on clean energy solutions for a more sustainable future.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/01/05/google-acquires-intersect-power-for-nearly-5-billion/
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Japanese airport terminal hosting chalcopyrite solar modules
Kyuden Mirai Energy and Nissan Motor are showcasing the use of flexible, glass-free chalcopyrite PV panels from PXP Corporation in projects at Fukuoka International Airport and a Nissan dealership in Yokohama City, Japan. The goal is to evaluate the potential applications of thin film solar PV technology, raise awareness about flexible solar cell technology, and emphasize Nissan's commitment to sustainability. PXP Corporation has received financial support to advance their technology in Japan, highlighting the growing interest in renewable energy solutions.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/01/05/japanese-airport-terminal-hosting-chalcopyrite-solar-modules/
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On Heat Pumps, Colorado Hits The Ground Running
Colorado is launching a rebate program offering up to $14,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, including heat pumps, to accelerate the transition to clean, all-electric systems and reduce carbon emissions. Zero Home is expanding statewide in Colorado, focusing on cold-climate heat pumps covered by the new rebate program, with up to $8,000 in rebates available. Heat pump sales have increased significantly in recent years, surpassing gas furnaces, with a new wave of cold-climate technology entering the market. Biden-era initiatives are supporting the development of commercial-scale heat pumps, heat pump clothes dryers, and water heaters, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/03/on-heat-pumps-colorado-hits-the-ground-running/
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One Step Closer To The Compostable EV Battery Of The Future
Flint, a Singapore-based startup supported by Shell and OPPO Research Institute, has developed a bio-based paper battery made from cellulose fibers found in plant cell walls. This innovative battery is cost-effective, durable, sustainable, fire-resistant, rechargeable, and offers a lifespan comparable to traditional batteries. It is 1.8 times cheaper per kWh compared to lithium-ion batteries and can naturally biodegrade. WH-Power has also introduced a new energy storage technology with a quasi solid-state electrolyte for stable operation with Li anodes and cathodes, high ion conductivity, and fast-charging capability. These advancements in plant-based and solid-state battery technologies aim to improve the sustainability profile of electric vehicles and other applications, offering promising solutions for the future of energy storage.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/02/one-step-closer-to-the-compostable-ev-battery-of-the-future/
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Battery technology outlook for 2026 sharpens beyond lithium-ion
In 2026, the energy storage industry is focused on advancements in technology to meet the demands of AI-driven load growth, data center demand, and wildfire risks. Longer-duration storage, safer chemistries, and resilient supply chains are key priorities for industry leaders, with a shift towards non-lithium chemistries for safety, affordability, and long-term confidence. Recycling and domestic processing will become essential for maintaining domestic battery supply chains, with a push towards localized materials recovery and finished batteries. Companies investing in secure, scalable supply chains and embracing new chemistries will be well-positioned to succeed in meeting the country's energy needs, particularly in adding flexible power near high-demand areas like AI data centers.
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UK study finds azimuthal trackers boost floating PV performance
A University of Exeter study found that azimuthal tracking systems deliver the largest energy gains and lowest levelized cost of energy for floating solar PV plants in the UK, with a 26.9% increase in production compared to fixed systems. This makes floating solar a competitive option for marine-based renewable energy. Meanwhile, in the United States, Texas has become one of the top states for solar energy production due to its abundant sunlight, large land area, and decreasing costs of solar technology. The expansion of solar power in Texas is helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
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Equinor latest US offshore wind developer to challenge Trump
Equinor has filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's stop-work order on five offshore wind projects, including Empire Wind 1, in a Washington, DC federal district court. This legal action is crucial for the construction of offshore wind projects, which play a significant role in transitioning to renewable energy sources and combating climate change. The outcome of this lawsuit could have a major impact on the advancement of renewable energy solutions and the fight against climate change.