Energy Digest

AI data centers are experiencing a growing need for power capacity due to their rapid expansion, leading to increased energy consumption and transmission losses. Microsoft is investigating the use of high-temperature superconductors as an alternative to copper wiring, which could improve energy efficiency by reducing transmission losses and increasing grid resiliency. By using HTS, data centers can potentially reduce the space required for power distribution, making them more compact and environmentally friendly.

U.S. electric generating capacity is expected to reach a record high in 2026 with 86 gigawatts (GW) of new utility-scale capacity added. The majority of this growth will come from solar power (51%), followed by battery storage (28%) and wind energy (14%). This represents a significant shift towards renewable energy sources.

Cubenergy's FlexCombo 2.0 is a next-generation flexible energy storage AC block developed after leveraging 12 years of energy storage expertise. It enables the creation of new applications and opportunities in the energy sector. The product represents the next wave of advancements in energy storage technology.

Invenergy has secured a supply deal for infrastructure associated with three new natural gas-fired power plants in Arizona, solidifying its position as North America's largest privately held independent power producer. The agreement is part of Invenergy's efforts to develop renewable energy and energy infrastructure projects across the country. No further details on the specific pipeline operator or project timeline have been disclosed.

The US Supreme Court has ruled that President Donald Trump's 2025 tariff policy is unconstitutional, striking down the administration's justification of the measure under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The court found that IEEPA does not authorize tariffs to address trade imbalances. The decision was made in a 6-3 vote.

Consumers Energy completed nearly 2,700 distribution reliability projects across Michigan in 2025, reducing customer impacts by 130,000 outages. These projects improved the efficiency of their low voltage and high voltage distribution systems, enhancing overall power reliability for customers. The investments resulted from Consumers Energy's efforts to enhance grid resilience and reliability.

Estonia has delivered its largest heat storage facility, begun construction on a 250 MWh battery energy storage system and is preparing to break ground on an 800 MWh battery park in Valga County, set to become the largest in the Baltics. French investment fund Mirova and Estonian developer Evecon have secured a €85 million long-term financing package from Swedbank to support Estonia's energy transition efforts. The country has also executed its first flexibility power purchase agreement (FPPA) in the Baltics, enhancing the 77.5 MWp Kirikmäe solar PV plant with the addition of a battery storage system.

Samsung HVAC's Hylex inverter-driven heat pump system offers 2-5 ton capacity, high efficiency with a SEER2 rating of up to 15.2, and reliable cold-climate performance down to -25°C, featuring Wi-Fi control and compact design suitable for zero-lot-line properties.

New Zealand's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority has selected 32 agricultural businesses to test solar and battery systems across key sectors, with a total installed solar capacity of 3,616 kW. The program aims to demonstrate the viability of technology and share insights to encourage further uptake among New Zealand farmers. Seven farms have installed smaller-scale solar systems ranging from 30-50 kW, while four farms are utilizing batteries only.

The EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra X Power Station is now available for $1,800, a new low of $6,499. Anker's SOLIX 72-hour flash sale offers up to $4,099 off power station bundles starting from $650. Bluetti's February Member Day Sale provides up to 53% off its power stations with bonus savings.