Energy Digest

The Spanish government has launched a new €355 million renewable energy manufacturing program to support the production of various clean technologies. This initiative aims to promote sustainable growth and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The funding will be allocated to equipment manufacturers in specific categories.

Liberty Energy, a Denver-based oil and gas company, has partnered with Vantage Data Centers to develop natural gas-fired power solutions for data centers. This partnership aims to provide utility-scale, high-efficiency power for Vantage's expansion of its North American portfolio. The collaboration marks an effort by Liberty Energy to diversify into the renewable energy sector.

Tata Power has commissioned a 1.4-gigawatt solar power plant in Rajasthan, India, marking the largest solar power project undertaken by the company to date. The INR 54.9 billion ($611 million) investment will produce approximately 2.454 TWh of electricity annually. This milestone signifies significant progress in India's renewable energy sector.

The article states that more than half of upcoming global data centers will be developed in the United States, with power usage varying widely depending on factors such as land availability and services provided. Data centers in the US are larger on average compared to those in other countries due to these factors. The dataset used for analysis may undercount new Chinese data centers, which are not always publicly announced.

A 16.8-MW floating offshore wind farm, the Goto Floating Wind Farm, has come online in Japan, marking the country's first commercial application of a hybrid SPAR-type floater technology. This milestone represents a significant step forward for the country's renewable energy sector and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The project partners include some of Japan's biggest names in energy.

The power and energy systems face a significant challenge in meeting the growing demand for electricity from data centers. The lack of new generation capacity, particularly baseload power sources like combined cycle gas, is putting pressure on existing infrastructure to meet reliability requirements. FERC and RTO markets are grappling with how to address this issue, particularly with regards to financing and building new power plants.

Engie's North American arm has requested the California Energy Commission to pause the review of its Compass Energy Storage project in Orange County, citing a need to assess alternative development sites. This move suggests that Engie may be reconsidering its original site selection due to potential issues or concerns. The pause in the review process will likely provide Engie with more time to explore other options.

China has begun construction on two new nuclear power units, marking the start of work on CAP1000 reactors at the Bailong and Lufeng plants in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Guangdong province, respectively. The project involves pouring concrete for unit 1 at Bailong and unit 2 at Lufeng. This marks an official start to construction on these two new nuclear power units.

Alphabet, the parent company of Google, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Intersect Power, a data centre and energy developer, for US$4.75 billion. This acquisition aims to strengthen Alphabet's presence in the renewable energy sector and expand its offerings in the field of clean energy. The deal is expected to enhance Alphabet's ability to develop and manage large-scale clean energy projects.

The ESIG task force recommends transmission reforms to create a more reliable and efficient grid, with scenario-based planning potentially reducing over-building and easing permitting challenges. This approach aims to balance the need for modernization with the costs associated with new infrastructure development. By considering multiple scenarios, experts hope to minimize waste and optimize investment.

ISO-NE proposes a significant overhaul of its capacity market framework, shifting from long-term three-year forecasts to more accurate "prompt" auctions that buy capacity a month ahead. This change aims to improve the grid operator's load forecasts and key metrics. The proposed shift is expected to enhance the reliability and efficiency of New England's power system.

The EcoFlow New Year Sale is offering up to 65% discounts on power stations and accessories, with some products starting as low as $229. Additionally, there are flash sales on other products such as MOD e-bikes and Jackery power stations. The sale also includes exclusive deals and CES 2026 reveals.

The article discusses the potential of new hydroelectric development to meet increasing energy demand in VMKB province, Tajikistan, through a Power System Plan 2025-2050. The plan was presented by the Hydropower Sustainability Alliance at a ministerial meeting. This initiative aims to ensure sustainable and reliable energy supply for the region.

Storio Energy has successfully enabled behind-the-meter industrial battery systems to participate in the automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve (aFRR) service in France, a milestone that previously saw front-of-the-meter storage dominate this service. This achievement marks a significant step towards integrating behind-the-meter batteries into grid stability efforts. Storio's innovative approach aims to demonstrate that these batteries can contribute to grid stability despite technical challenges.

Verge Motorcycles has unveiled its electric motorcycle, the first production model to feature solid-state batteries. This technology promises improved range and charging speed, with a claimed range of up to 370 miles. The company is positioning itself as a leader in electric motorcycles.

The article discusses a recent power purchase agreement (PPA) deal between IPP Zelestra and utility EDP for a solar-plus-storage project in Spain. This deal is considered a milestone as it marks the first PPA of its kind in Europe, representing "PPA 2.0". The arrangement signifies a significant move forward in the market.

KPI Green Energy Ltd and Power Grid Corporation of India have won tenders for large-scale battery storage projects in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, supported by the VGF (Visvesvaraya Gramin Bank). The wins are significant as they mark a major step forward for India's renewable energy sector. The two companies will implement BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) projects to enhance grid resilience.

Spain has allocated €818.3 million in European Union funding to 126 energy storage projects, which will add 2.2 GW of power output and 9.4 GWh of storage capacity. This is a result of the Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge's (MITECO) call for proposals, which attracted over 1,700 applications. The funding will support various types of energy storage projects, including hybrid, standalone batteries, thermal storage, and pumped storage.

India's renewable energy sector has experienced significant growth in 2025, with over 40 GW of new solar and wind installations, transforming the country into one of the world's lowest-cost renewable energy markets. This expansionary trend is driven by rapid solar and wind deployment, scaling up of domestic solar manufacturing, and project momentum across various segments. Despite this progress, grid constraints, power contracting delays, and supply chain risks continue to affect project execution.

**SUMMARY** Google has agreed to acquire Intersect Power, a solar and storage developer, for nearly $5 billion. The acquisition aims to enable Google to bypass grid bottlenecks and build energy parks that co-locate data centers with generation and battery energy storage assets. This move represents a significant step by Google in its efforts to scale its AI operations rapidly. **KEY TAKEAWAYS** * **Google acquires a renewable energy developer**: For the first time, a Big Tech firm has directly acquired a major renewable energy developer, giving Google control over Intersect Power's solar and storage assets. * **Energy parks to mitigate grid congestion**: The acquisition is expected to help Google build "energy parks" that co-locate data centers with generation and battery energy storage assets, reducing the strain on public grids and enabling faster scaling of AI operations. * **Significant scale and capacity**: Intersect Power currently manages $15 billion in assets and has a portfolio of 2.2 GW of solar and 2.4 GWh of battery energy storage, with plans to expand its capacity to 10.8 GW by 2028.

Greece has awarded permits for over 900 MW of standalone battery storage projects through three auctions, but none have been successfully connected to the grid. Despite having installed approximately 300 MW of awarded capacity, the lack of grid connection remains a significant issue. The reasons behind this delay are currently unclear.

Gujarat is making a bold move to become a leading player in global sustainable energy, aiming to produce 100 GW of renewable capacity by 2030 and 3 million tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of green hydrogen by 2035. The state has launched three new policies to achieve this goal, covering the entire clean power value chain, including solar, wind, hybrid projects, electrolyzer rollout, hydrogen production storage, and pumped hydro storage. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel is pushing Gujarat as a real Indian heavyweight in global sustainable energy arenas.

The Japanese airport terminal Fukuoka International Airport is hosting a demonstration project using flexible, glass-free chalcopyrite solar modules provided by PXP Corporation. The project aims to test the performance of these innovative panels, which are part of Kyuden Mirai Energy and Nissan Motor's renewable energy initiatives. The modules have been installed on the airport terminal roof and will be used to power various devices such as vending machines and smartphone chargers.

**SUMMARY** The article reports on the expansion of green hydrogen production in Namibia with Plug Power's 5 MW GenEco Electrolyzer at Walvis Bay. The facility, powered entirely by renewables, is one of Africa's first fully integrated commercial green hydrogen facilities and sets a blueprint for ports across the continent to reduce fossil fuel use and carbon emissions. The electrolyzer produces high-purity hydrogen for use in yard trucks, cargo cranes, and small vessels. **KEY TAKEAWAYS** * Plug Power's 5 MW GenEco Electrolyzer at Walvis Bay is one of Africa's first fully integrated commercial green hydrogen facilities, powered entirely by renewables. * The facility produces approximately two tons of green hydrogen per day, enough to keep over 40 heavy-duty port trucks rolling 24/7. * The electrolyzer uses electricity from adjacent solar arrays and wind farms, with the oxygen byproduct being either vented safely or captured for industrial purposes.

The University of Tulsa and its venture arm, Hurricane Ventures, have backed Tobe Energy, a clean hydrogen startup co-founded by alumni Colby DeWeese and Caleb Lareau. This partnership aims to support next-generation hydrogen production, leveraging federal incentives designed to reduce heavy-industry emissions. The collaboration will focus on testing the efficiency and feasibility of Tobe Energy's membrane-free electrolyzer technology.

The Hydro Zenith, a hydrogen fuel cell-powered boat, has successfully completed its maiden voyage in South Korea's Yeongam test facility. Powered by two 100 kW proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells and four lithium-ion battery packs, the vessel showcases a hybrid setup that balances range, reliability, and responsiveness. This achievement highlights Vinssen's innovative fuel cell technology for marine vessels.

Huawei and Sungrow top the Wood Mackenzie's global solar inverter ranking, followed by SMA, Fronius, Ginlong/Solis, GoodWe, TMEIC, SolarEdge, Aiswei/Solplanet, and Enphase. The top 10 manufacturers account for 71% of the global market share, indicating increased confidence in product longevity and commitment to matching solar module lifespan. The companies also demonstrate strong sustainability efforts, with six among them holding an EcoVadis ranking of silver or higher.

France, Germany, and Italy have broken records for solar production in December, with Germany reaching a record high of 87 GWh on Christmas Day. The three countries achieved the same feat three days later, registering 66 GWh and 54 GWh respectively. This increase in solar energy production has had a downward influence on electricity prices in many markets.

Chinese authorities are strengthening intellectual property protection in the solar industry to promote a fair and orderly market environment. The government has unveiled a package of policy measures, including promoting high-quality patent filing, improving patent pre-examination efficiency, and strengthening IP risk monitoring. This move aims to encourage technological advancements and reserve basic patents for developing technologies such as perovskites and tandem.

The article reports that hydrogen fuel cell stocks are experiencing a surge in value, driven by growing optimism about the industry's potential for industrial decarbonization and increasing demand for clean energy solutions. Analysts predict a significant growth in the global fuel cell technology market, with market research firms estimating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.3% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by government incentives, corporate sustainability goals, and increasing demand for clean energy solutions.

Jackery has unveiled a new portable power station, the Explorer 1500 Ultra, designed for rugged outdoor use and real-world applications. The company is also showcasing innovative solar-powered products, including a gazebo and autonomous solar robot, expanding its scope beyond traditional portable power.

CATL, a leading battery and energy management system provider, is making significant strides in the maritime decarbonization sector by deploying its systems on over 900 ships and vessels. This deployment suggests that shipping companies are adopting electric propulsion, which is often challenging due to safety, longevity, and certification concerns. CATL's success indicates the growing momentum towards electrification of global ports.

**SUMMARY** The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has revoked the operating license for the Au Train Dam in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, citing a failure to address safety issues that could put lives at risk. The dam, which was built in the early 1900s, had been operated by UP Hydro since 2010 without addressing inadequate spillway capacity, a condition of FERC's transfer of the license. The revocation caps a tumultuous year for the dam and its owners. **KEY TAKEAWAYS** * FERC has revoked the operating license for the Au Train Dam in Michigan due to safety shortcomings that could cost lives. * The dam's owner, UP Hydro, had failed to address inadequate spillway capacity, a condition of FERC's transfer of the license, despite warning from regulatory agencies. * The revocation shifts oversight of the dam to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), which had previously warned about the dam's safety issues.

SANY, a Chinese equipment and heavy truck brand, is introducing an electric semi-truck convoy system that pairs autonomy with human experience by having a seasoned driver in the lead vehicle accompanied by up to four autonomous trucks programmed to follow their lead. This approach allows for a balance between automation and human oversight, mitigating potential risks associated with fully self-driving trucks. By combining technology with experienced human drivers, SANY aims to improve safety and efficiency.

The article discusses the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on offshore wind energy, particularly in terms of policy changes and legal actions that hindered the development of wind farms. Despite initial skepticism about Trump's commitment to dismantling offshore wind, he made significant moves to undermine the industry. His policies and actions had a detrimental effect on the growth of offshore wind energy.