Archives: Exclusive Articles

Prioritising sustainability and innovation

With the UK solar sector seeing a 52.9% increase in 2023 and ambitious government plans to triple solar power, the timing is perfect for Recom Technologies to introduce its high-quality, EU-manufactured solar products. This move is consistent with its core values of sustainability, reliability, and ethical business practices. Jon Camp, UK Managing Director, explains to… Read more »

Leading the charge in PV inverter solutions

Photovoltaic (PV) inverters play a crucial role in solar energy systems, converting direct current into alternating current for use in homes, businesses, and the grid. PES sat down with Yao Qu, President, Europe, at Sineng Electric, to look at its strategic approach to market demands, its commitment to sustainability, and how its products stand out… Read more »

Maximizing efficiency with solar project management

Sitetracker’s Director of Product Marketing, Energy and Utilities, Emily Obenauer, sheds light on the challenges solar developers face across project phases, from permitting complexities to construction coordination. PES wanted to ask her how Sitetracker’s platform streamlines processes, centralizes data, and integrates AI, fostering efficiency and sustainability in solar development. PES: It’s good to talk to… Read more »

Shining light on Puerto Rican solar policy

In the sun-drenched landscape of Puerto Rico, a shift towards sustainable energy is illuminating the path to a greener future. As the island grapples with the dual challenges of building environmental resilience and recovering from extreme climate events, policymakers are spearheading initiatives to harness the abundant solar potential. On the island, it all comes down… Read more »

A complex challenge feed-in management and peak shaving

As renewable energy sources become more prevalent, the traditional electricity grid model has shifted. Historically, power flowed from a few large centralised plants to consumers in a one-way system. Now, consumers can also be producers who both use and contribute electricity. This shift introduces complexity for grid operators managing stability, requiring feed-in management to ensure… Read more »

Maximizing solar inverter performance: emerging opportunities in repowering

In the rapidly evolving field of renewable energy, repowering solar inverters has emerged as a strategic solution to enhance the performance, efficiency, and longevity of photovoltaic (PV) systems. In simple terms, repowering involves upgrading or replacing components of existing solar system setups to adapt to technological advancements, mitigate operational issues, and comply with evolving regulatory… Read more »

Making solar power plants safer

Why is safety a priority for the solar industry? Why are meticulous handling methods and installation procedures of the smallest components in photovoltaic systems so important? PES wanted to find out more about this topic by talking to Dominic Buergi, Global Head of Services Renewable Energy at PV connector market leader Stäubli. PES: Thanks for… Read more »

Enhancing grid stability: the vital role of inverters in renewable energy integration

In the context of sustainable development, addressing the widespread integration and consumption of new energy is crucial for achieving carbon peak and neutrality goals. Integrating new energy sources into the power grid is a key focus of the power industry. However, the intermittent nature of new energy poses challenges, potentially impacting the stability of regional… Read more »

The role of electrification and innovative adhesive solutions for a sustainable future

The Global Energy Perspective 2023 explores scenarios for a sustainable energy future, emphasizing electrification to reduce global emissions. With solar and battery technologies needing significant scaling, companies like tesa offer innovative adhesive solutions for automotive and industrial sectors, overcoming bottlenecks and supporting the shift toward green, carbon-neutral power generation. The global energy landscape is undergoing… Read more »

The business case for gender equality in the solar industry: a women’s issue

WiSEu Network (Women in Solar Europe) has become a driving force for gender equality since its creation in February 2023. With over 1,000 members across more than 15 countries and supported by leading organisations in the industry, the network focuses on supporting career development for women in the solar and energy storage industry. In this… Read more »

Pioneering PV planning: fast, safe, accurate, and now with AI

Through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) PV project planning is significantly accelerated. That means even more time-savings for planners. The planning software K2 Base, provided free of charge by the globally active mounting system specialist K2 Systems, is constantly being optimized with new products, new functions and adaptations for new requirements. No wonder it… Read more »

The Sub 1 GHz revolution in microinverters

In the ever evolving world of solar energy, staying ahead requires constant innovation. One groundbreaking stride in this journey is the integration of Sub 1 GHz communication technology into microinverters. Hoymiles explores its benefits and possibilities for elevating communication in solar panel systems.

Pyranometer calibration explained

In the realm of solar energy and atmospheric research, pyranometers play a pivotal role. These instruments are essential for accurately measuring solar radiation at a specific location, a key factor in optimizing the design and efficiency of solar energy systems. Pyranometers, classified under various accuracy categories, are not only crucial in the planning stages of… Read more »

Superpower your solar meteorological data with advanced quality control

Solar meteorological data is only as useful as it is accurate. The quality control process is critical to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data used in solar energy analysis, forecasting and system operation. Solar power plant performance monitoring is essential to maximise return on investment, extend the lifespan of the system, ensure safety… Read more »

Commercial and industrial projects with three-phase microinverter tech

In 2023, the photovoltaic power installed in Europe was estimated at about 56 GW according to the latest Solar Power Europe report. That is a growth of more than 40% compared to 2022. With 14 countries among the 27 member states exceeding 1 GW of annual installations in 2023, Europe continues to show great dynamism… Read more »

Effective DC wiring optimizes CAPEX and OPEX of your PV system

In this exclusive PES interview, Andrea Viaro, Global Head of large-scale systems at PV connector market leader Stäubli Renewable Energy, provides valuable insights into development since he joined the company, as well as wider trends in the field of photovoltaics. The company is famous for its Original MC4 electrical connectors, a staple in the solar… Read more »

Driving progress and electrification

Michael Geiger, Senior Vice President Energy Solutions, and Jos Theuns, Senior Director Strategy and Partnership Energy Solutions at Exide Technologies, talk to PES about the company’s transition from lead-acid to advanced lithium-ion solutions, and towards a net-zero future. How does the business innovate to meet the diverse industry needs, advancing renewable energy integration and grid… Read more »

The role of outdoor testing and robotic cleaning to reduce LCoE

Amidst surging global adoption of photovoltaic (PV) plants in desert regions, dust accumulation poses a significant challenge to performance and reliability. Here, we explore the transformative potential of robotic cleaning systems, leveraging automation and advanced technologies to optimize maintenance practices, maximize energy production, and ensure the long-term sustainability of solar PV installation in harsh desert… Read more »

Rethinking lithium battery production for a greener future

The vision of a sustainable future, characterized by solar panels lining the roof of every home, roads bustling with battery-powered vehicles, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels, hinges on the pivotal roles played by electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems. This dream is refined with extended ranges for EVs, rapid charging capabilities, and… Read more »

Securing solar investments: strategies for world class performance and reliability

A recent study found that ‘solar assets are underperforming by an average of 8%’. Part of the problem is that the average photovoltaic project is designed based on standard values for climate-related losses that bear no relation to reality. PVRADAR empowers project developers to achieve world class performance and reliability, across all climatic zones, starting… Read more »

Reducing costs and protecting the environment

At Hyacintgatan 45 in the Holma district of Malmö, Sweden, there is a large residential complex which, like similar large projects before it, has now been equipped with a photovoltaic system. In the 1970s, as part of the ‘Million Programme’, numerous housing estates were built over a short period on what was then farmland in… Read more »

Maintaining PV systems with advanced AI software

PVision, a young AI startup based in Stuttgart, Germany, has developed innovative software that enables electricians to inspect photovoltaic systems for damage using drones and AI analysis. In this article, we take a closer look at the challenges faced by the industry in maintaining these systems.

Counting the cost of solar inverters

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right inverter for a solar project, including ease of installation, performance, reliability and the levelized cost of energy (LCoE). As the renewable energy industry matures, there are more elements to think about too, such as compatibility with batteries, electric vehicles and their ability to keep key… Read more »

Harness the sun

Henkel is dedicated to developing materials that offer formulations, which support sustainable practices for solar system developers. This commitment stems from its belief that the reliability of power conversion and energy storage is crucial to harnessing the advantages of solar power.

Powering tomorrow

PES spent time talking to Carlos Lopez, CRO of PV Hardware, exploring the company’s journey as a leading manufacturer of solar tracking solutions. With over 29 GW delivered worldwide and a strategic focus on international growth, it looks poised to help shape the future of solar energy.

Powering growth, innovation, and sustainability

In a revealing discussion with Lin Sun, Head of Sustainability Development at JinkoSolar, she shares the strategic decisions that led to its impressive market share in 2023. How does the company maintain quality standards, what is its global positioning, and what’s the secret to balancing sustainability with growth?

Scaling up shingle matrix technology

Shingle matrix is synonymous with superior connection technology for solar cells. It is aimed at achieving high module efficiencies, enhanced product aesthetics, and outstanding shading resilience. These are all important properties, especially in integrated photovoltaics (xIPV). The uniqueness of shingle matrix technology clearly stands out in a market with a very homogeneous product range. The… Read more »

Setting a new standard for module reliability with testing innovation

As the solar industry matures, manufacturers and project developers are becoming more and more focused on ensuring the long-term reliability of solar modules. There are inherent challenges to predicting the performance of a module over a potential lifespan of 30 years or more, but innovative approaches are emerging from leading manufacturers. PES spoke with LONGi… Read more »

Illuminating the future

The renewable energy sector in the United States is thriving, buoyed by political support and climate awareness. Soltec, a Spanish firm specializing in solar trackers, has seized opportunities in this market, demonstrating leadership through innovation and executing large-scale projects across the country.

Unveiling renewable energy innovations across continents

In a world grappling with climate change and environmental concerns, the need for sustainable energy solutions has never been more pressing. The Intersolar and The smarter E events have emerged as beacons of innovation, bringing together experts, professionals, and enthusiasts from around the globe to explore, discuss, and shape the future of clean energy. As… Read more »

Agri-PV: merging solar power with agriculture

The importance of renewable energy is increasing significantly worldwide. Clear proof of this is the boom in the photovoltaic industry, which has become one of the central pillars of the global energy mix. Agri-PV, the combination of agricultural activities with solar parks, is considered an extremely promising concept in the field of renewable energies, offering… Read more »

Boosting utility-scale PV plant efficiency: the critical role of MET stations

In a discussion with PES, PowerWise SOLAR’s Founder and CEO, Carsten M. Steenberg, highlights the critical role of MET stations in monitoring the performance of utility-scale photovoltaic plants. Boasting an impressive global installation of over 10,000 units, the company is at the forefront of the industry in this domain. Fitted with diverse sensors they provide… Read more »

Sustainable solar panel selection

As solar panels increase rapidly in number, the industry faces the dual challenge of meeting immediate energy needs while safeguarding against future environmental impacts. There needs to be a shift towards innovative solutions blending efficiency, longevity, and sustainable manufacturing. Homeowners, eager to mitigate climate change play a pivotal role by choosing responsibly made solar panels…. Read more »