Spain has launched 20 new energy community projects as part of its national total of 262, with EU-backed funding totaling €108.4 million. The program aims to deploy solar generation, storage, efficiency, and mobility solutions across regions, delivering 175.3 MW of PV capacity and involving over 111,000 citizens. The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge has launched a public consultation ahead of a second call for technical support and guidance through its Offices for Energy Community Transformation (OTC) program.
The Czech government is considering proposals to increase the threshold for paying electricity tax on solar power plants from 50 kW to 100 kW and prevent double taxation on projects installing both solar and storage systems. The Economic Committee of the Chamber of Deputies has backed these plans, which aim to accelerate the construction of solar power plants in the country. Solar energy associations have been advocating for this change since the government's formation last year, seeking to streamline permitting processes and reduce regulatory burdens.
Negative electricity price hours in EU-27 day-ahead power markets doubled in Q1 2026 to 1,223 hours below zero, more than double the 593 hours recorded in Q1 2025. Spain accounted for 347 of these negative-price hours, with Portugal and Greece also experiencing significant surpluses. Germany's April 2026 data shows large renewable forecast errors leading to oversupply periods and resulting in negative prices.
Ukrainian hospitals and schools are utilizing photovoltaic systems with battery storage to provide backup power during grid outages and cyberattacks, including the installation of nearly 1.5 MW of solar capacity and 2 MWh of battery storage by a local organization. The country's experience has highlighted the potential for renewable energy solutions in crisis situations, particularly in male-dominated industries like the energy sector. A training program is also in place to train women in building photovoltaic systems from the ground up.
A remote Western Australian community has secured planning approval for a 100%-First Nations-owned solar and battery project worth AUD $12 million, which aims to meet 80% of the energy needs of two communities. The 3.25 MW battery energy storage system will be connected to a microgrid and feature 3,408 solar panels arranged in the shape of the Djarindjin community's official symbol. The project is expected to reduce diesel dependence and support broader climate action efforts for the communities.
Iowa, South Dakota, and New Mexico rely on wind and solar power as the largest share, with Iowa at 44%, South Dakota at 34%, and New Mexico at 33% of their electricity generation. These three states are followed by other top producers like Texas and California, which rely heavily on oil and natural gas for energy. The data suggests that while some larger states prioritize renewable energy, smaller states in the Midwest and Southwest lead the way in wind and solar power.
AGL's Liddell and Tomago battery storage systems are expected to increase portfolio returns by 10% in Australia. The addition of the BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) to AGL's existing coal-fired generation will have this effect. This move is part of a strategy to optimize energy returns for the company.
The Maryland Office of People's Counsel has filed a FERC complaint against PJM alleging its transmission cost allocation rules favor data centers over customers, with $1.6 billion in additional costs projected for Maryland customers through 2030 due to new demand from data centers. The complaint argues that these costs are unfair and unreasonable as they benefit data centers located outside of Maryland. The OPC seeks a refund of the date of May 7 as the effective date for revising PJM's cost allocation rules.
The US Air Force is investing in a space-based solar power solution developed by startup Overview Energy to extend the operational hours of existing solar power plants. The goal is to provide continuous energy generation beyond traditional day-night cycles. This project aims to explore the potential of space solar power to enhance global energy reliability and resilience.
Reactivate, a subsidiary of Invenergy, is partnering with Tribal Energy Alternatives to train up to 50 Tribal Nation members in solar workforce skills through a curriculum that includes hands-on installation experience and industry certifications. The training is funded by Reactivate's Renewable Energy Equity Foundation (REEF). Up to 50 Tribal members will benefit from the program.
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