Utility-scale solar projects require integration of civil design, BOS optimization, and domestic-content strategy years in advance. The terrain's micro-features, such as drainage swales and soil transitions, can significantly impact tracker installation and function. Engineering the drainage system first is crucial to designing a functional and efficient tracker layout.
Basque engineering company Lointek has delivered a 300 MWh liquid air energy storage system with a power output of 50 MW in the United Kingdom, marking a key milestone in LAES technology deployment. The project is considered the largest facility of its kind in the UK and enables up to six hours of continuous energy discharge. Commercial operation is scheduled for 2027 with a design lifetime exceeding 50 years.
ContourGlobal has commissioned a 231 MW solar photovoltaic plant with a 200 MW / 1.3 GWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Chile's Tarapacá Region, marking the largest-duration operational utility-scale BESS project in Latin America, providing up to 6.5 hours of continuous energy supply after sunset. The facility is part of ContourGlobal's solar-plus-storage portfolio in Chile and contributes to the company's goal of improving grid flexibility and supporting higher penetration of renewable energy. The project totals 221 MW of photovoltaic capacity and 1.2 GWh of storage across three acquired assets valued at $962 million.
The European Commission has approved a capacity mechanism for Spain, which will mobilize up to €9 billion over 10 years, starting in May 2026. The scheme aims to ensure sufficient firm and flexible capacity to meet the national reliability standard by remunerating resources during periods of system stress or scarcity. Participants will compete through auctions on the level of remuneration requested per MW of available capacity.
Tesla's Robotaxi service has reported alarming numbers, with some reports suggesting that the company is struggling to find enough drivers to meet demand. Ferrari unveiled its new Luce model with a hybrid powertrain and an electric variant, but sparked controversy over its design and pricing. Meanwhile, Waymo's Ojai autonomous taxi service launched in California, marking a significant milestone for the company.
Anker SOLIX power stations are now permanently cut in price, with prices starting from $123. Lectric's Memorial Day Sale has also concluded, offering discounts on e-bikes and extra batteries ranging from 30% off to $210. Exclusive bonus savings are available for some products during a limited-time window.
ContourGlobal, a global clean energy group, has brought online a major solar-plus-storage project in Chile, featuring Latin America's longest-duration battery energy storage system. The Victor Jara Plant is the company's latest utility-scale solar power facility, marking another milestone in its renewable energy expansion efforts. The project's battery energy storage system provides significant grid stability and flexibility benefits.
Nextpower acquired Prevalon Energy for up to $365 million as part of a strategy to expand into the battery energy storage space. The acquisition aims to strengthen Nextpower's technology platform. This move marks Nextpower's entry into the battery energy storage market.
New York's 2027 state budget includes $200 million in funding for NYSERDA's NY-Sun program, prioritizing new solar construction and grid upgrades. The budget also aims to expand rooftop and community solar projects across the state. This investment is part of a broader effort to prioritize renewable energy sources in New York's energy policy.
Quebec's growing wind power ambitions face a significant challenge due to a shortage of skilled construction management site teams. The province has a robust pipeline of wind projects, but lacks the necessary workforce to support its scale of deployment. This labor constraint is a critical bottleneck in Quebec's efforts to meet its renewable energy goals.
PV Magazine