Energy Digest

Energy is no longer a topic exclusive to insiders, but a strategic asset and matter of security, emphasizing the importance of diversification for resilience. Gender diversity and inclusion are crucial components of this resilience, with diverse voices shaping the sector's growth. Listening to and valuing diverse perspectives is essential for a growing and accepted sector.

Vietnam's government has ordered provincial and municipal authorities to introduce rooftop solar incentives by the end of December 2026, with a focus on reducing peak electricity demand and improving local energy self-sufficiency. The government aims to accelerate the deployment of rooftop PV and battery energy storage systems, particularly in northern provinces. Local authorities will need to propose deployment targets, installation capacities, and commissioning schedules for rooftop solar systems, and introduce support policies for households investing in self-consumption systems.

A Brazilian couple, Alessandro De Franceschi and Maria Eduarda Cardoso, traveled through 10 African countries in a solar-powered motorhome, using a system combining rooftop solar panels, lithium batteries, and charging from the vehicle's alternator. The system allowed them to operate multiple appliances, including air conditioners and refrigerators, without relying on external power connections for extended periods. The motorhome's energy system, designed with Victron Energy's equipment, enabled the couple to maintain their usual electricity consumption for approximately a year.

GM is investing in Peak Energy to develop sodium-ion battery cells for grid-scale energy storage projects, not electric vehicles. The company is partnering with Peak Energy to create next-generation battery cells that don't use lithium. GM Ventures is making a strategic investment in the partnership.

A 704-kW community solar garden in Minneapolis is now producing power for 100 low-moderate income (LMI) residents, with 25 spots remaining. The system, developed by MRES and Greenway Solar, was funded in part by a $150,000 grant. The garden serves as a resource for LMI subscribers who may not be able to install solar panels on their properties.

Solar panel efficiency measures the percentage of sunlight a panel converts into electricity, with most residential panels in 2026 operating between 20-23% efficiency under standard test conditions. Higher efficiency rates result in more power per square foot, making it more suitable for limited roof space. Standard test conditions (STC) are the basis for measuring solar panel efficiency.

The global energy storage market is expected to see a 45% year-on-year growth surge in 2026, driven by sustained and rapid growth over the next decade. The cumulative capacity of the global energy storage market is projected to reach 3.1TW by 2036.

Solar energy is lowering electricity costs in both red and blue states, with a 42% decrease in average wholesale electricity prices in Texas driven by growth in solar and energy storage. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) analysis found that solar and energy storage are key contributors to affordable energy. This trend is emerging as a defining issue in the upcoming midterm elections.

NeoVolta is launching a third-party ownership solar and storage program, funded by tax equity partners, to deploy energy solutions for both residential and commercial customers. The initial focus will be on the residential market, with plans to expand to commercial customers in the future. The program will offer financing options for customers without upfront costs.

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