Tesla shifts battery chem for its Megapack energy storage system
The US electric car manufacturer is reportedly shifting to cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for its utility-scale battery.
New tech to identify best locations for floating PV
Norway’s Glint Solar and the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute have developed an algorithm that is able to automatically calculate wave heights and wind directions at potential locations for floating PV arrays. It considers the geometry of the water surface as well as 40 years of data on wind conditions.
Solar 101: Working the angles to maximize your solar system’s output
Using Normal, Illinois, as a … well, normal … case study, we look at how a roof’s latitude, pitch, and azimuth affect energy output.
Recycling rare-earth elements from dead lithium batteries
American Resources Corporation is developing a process to separate pure rare earth metals from lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles or power plants based on renewable energy. The technique is described as a two-zone ligand-assisted displacement chromatography (LAD) that is able to produce metals with high yields and purity of over 99%.
Lithium saturation to make old batteries new
Scientists investigating the aging mechanisms affecting today’s lithium-ion batteries observed that the loss of lithium over time is one of the main causes of performance loss. With this in mind, they developed and tested a “relithiation” process that promises to eliminate much of the cost and complexity from recycling battery components and materials.
Bolivia launches call for lithium extraction
Bolivia has launched a second international call, after a first attempt failed in 2019, to seek potential investors for its huge lithium resources.
Leclanché unveils modular, plug-and-play solution for utility scale storage
The proposed solution is claimed to be able to mitigate potential fire risk, improve logistics and reduce costs. It consists of a series of interchangeable wide blocks that are said to be easily movable for simplified transportation.
Meyer Burger unveils 400 W heterojunction solar module
The solar module will be available in three versions – white, black, and glass-glass. The products have an output of up to 400 W, but when the bifacial effect is optimally used, the output of the glass-glass module can reach up to 430 W. Both the white and black modules weigh less than 20 kg.
Solar 101: Attaching your PV system to your roof
A solar racking system’s strength is determined in part by the metal racking, but it also depends on the roof’s underlying structure. Rafters and any supporting structures must be strong enough to withstand your region’s maximum wind and snow loads.
Graphene aluminum ion batteries with ultra-fast charging
The “graphene revolution” is almost here. Australian scientists specializing in aluminum-ion batteries are now working with Brisbane-based Graphene Manufacturing Group to commercialize a technology that could transform energy storage.
