New flywheel energy storage systems can be located largely underground, offering aesthetic benefits and potential for lower costs, longer duration, and less reliance on overseas supply chains. This technology supports the integration of wind and solar power into the grid, providing a reliable and efficient way to store excess energy generated by renewable sources. Underground placement also eliminates the visual impact often associated with traditional above-ground energy storage systems.
China has consistently met or exceeded its renewable energy targets, often beating them years early, while missing nuclear power capacity targets despite continued support and construction. The country's delivery record suggests that forecasts based on current policies may not accurately reflect future outcomes. This divergence highlights the challenges of predicting China's long-term energy policy progress.
The Sherco coal generating station in Minnesota is converting to solar power, batteries, and a new transmission line that will deliver more clean energy. This transition occurs despite efforts by the Trump administration to support coal producers. The move marks another shift away from coal power towards cleaner energy sources.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will impose reforms on PJM if it fails to adopt changes by September, with potential reforms including an advisory stakeholder process and increased state influence. Broad support exists among stakeholders for strengthening grid operator independence. Codifying the public interest in PJM's mission is also being considered as a possible reform.
A team of Japanese researchers has developed cylindrical solar tubes that may find a place in the Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) market, despite historical failures similar to Solyndra's. These devices capture direct, diffuse, and reflected sunlight from multiple angles, enabling lightweight and low-profile installations on large commercial rooftops. They experience less temperature rise due to solar radiation compared to flat-plate solar cells, making them suitable for urban rooftop and building facade applications.
Next-generation European submarines will be equipped with lithium-ion batteries supplied by Saft, replacing traditional lead-acid technology, which promises improved energy density, faster charging, and increased underwater endurance. The upgrade is part of a larger effort to modernize naval defense systems with electric vehicle-style technology. This move represents a significant shift towards more efficient and sustainable propulsion for European naval vessels.
Ford and Geely plan to create a joint venture at Ford's assembly plant in Spain to build "multi-energy" cars for the European market, which are reportedly plug-in hybrids. The partnership aims to produce vehicles that combine different energy sources, such as battery-electric powertrains and internal combustion engines.
The Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix concluded with an awards ceremony, while 39 teams competed just days prior. The winning team will move on to compete in the 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge, a cross-country event. No specific results or winning teams are mentioned in the article.
Canadian Solar has officially opened its 2.1-GW phase of heterojunction technology (HJT) solar cell manufacturing facility in Jefferson, Indiana, marking the US's first production of HJT cells. The site is part of Canadian Solar's CS PowerTech subsidiary and will supply HJT cells to their modules.
German startup Revolta has launched a high-voltage sodium-ion battery storage system for residential applications, with a capacity of up to 20 kWh, and features compact design, flexible module configuration, and efficient performance. The system is designed for simplified installation and commissioning through an "over-the-air" process, allowing customers to manage the battery remotely via a smartphone app. Revolta aims to expand its list of compatible inverter models and plans to launch the system officially in September with several pilot projects already underway.
CleanTechnica