Replacing MPPT with direct PV-battery coupling
Researchers in Germany have assessed direct coupling and integration between PV and batteries at the scale of a single PV module. They say their solution could be cheaper and provide superior performance than maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in optimizing PV system performance.
Guidelines for pumped storage projects in India
The draft guidelines released by the power ministry include concessional climate finance and utilization of exhausted coal mines as sites for pumped storage projects.
BPCL launches 12 fast EV chargers on Delhi-Jalandhar highway
The DC fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers will be available at BPCL fuel stations between Delhi and Jalandhar. BPCL plans 200 such fast-charging corridors along national highways by March this year.
New EV battery offers 50% more density than traditional lithium-ion batteries
Ionblox says it will use $32 million of series B funding to support the buildout of a novel silicon anode electric vehicle battery.
Sodium aluminum battery for renewables storage
US researchers have designed a molten salt that could potentially reach an energy density of up to 100 Wh/kg at a cost of $7.02/ kWh. The battery uses an aluminum cathode that charges quickly and reportedly enables longer-duration discharge.
Dutch startup unveils controller to store excess PV power in hot water
Solyx Energy has developed a device to maximize solar self-consumption in residential homes. The sensor measures how much solar power can be fed back into the grid at different times, while a controller redirects that excess energy into an electric water heater.
Prime Minister flags off OIL’s hydrogen bus at India Energy Week
Oil India Ltd (OIL) indigenously developed this hydrogen fuel cell-based bus under its Startup incubation program SNEH. The bus is powered by a 60 kW PEM fuel cell.
AC vs. DC in residential buildings equipped with solar-plus-storage
Scientists in Sweden have compared AC and DC topologies in PV-powered buildings using battery storage. They have found that DC distribution systems can achieve energy savings when they are combined with solar-plus-storage systems.
Enphase demonstrates bidirectional EV charger
Enphase’s new bidirectional EV charger enables vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid applications, and can be integrated with its home energy systems.
Reliance Industries unveils India’s first hydrogen combustion engine technology for heavy-duty trucks
Reliance Industries Ltd developed the hydrogen internal combustion engine technology solution for heavy-duty trucks together with Ashok Leyland and other technical partners. It plans the technology’s first commercial deployment at scale initially across its captive fleet following extensive test and validation.
