World

Researchers in Malaysia have proposed a new approach to identify the optimal power sizing ratio to balance PV energy capture with inverter costs. The calibrated model is said to accurately reflect the relationship between inverter efficiency and real-world system behavior.

The adoption of smart technologies is reshaping the utilities industry, with a particular focus on smart grids. Smart grids leverage advanced sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and real-time data analytics to transform how electricity is generated, distributed, and consumed.

In its latest monthly column for pv magazine, IEA-PVPS provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art practices, best practices, and recommendations for managing reactive power amidst the growing integration of distributed energy resources (DERs). The article describes the regulatory frameworks and practical applications, underscoring the essential role of reactive power management in maintaining a stable and efficient power grid.

Scientists in Malta have created an after-market cooling solution that can be fitted to existing standard PV modules. The system is based on a water chamber placed at the backside of the module and can reportedly provide a net electrical energy gain of more than 9%.

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.

Multiple factors affect lifespan of a residential battery energy storage system. We examine the life of batteries in Part 3 of our series.

Even though fossil fuels still dominate global energy production at present, the movement for a changeover to cleaner forms of energy is building up. Renewables presently provide some 29 percent of all electricity generated; a figure bound to enormously rise in the next few years.

The integration of renewable energy in agriculture plays a significant role in combating climate change. It aligns with global efforts to transition towards sustainable practices and reduce environmental impact.

Indian researchers have compared the performance of an agrivoltaic system to monofacial and bifacial rooftop PV systems, and have found that the agrivoltaics setup had a shorter payback time and lower levelized cost of energy. Their analysis of performance considered panel temperature, power output, land equivalent ratio, and reliability.

Multiple factors affect the productive lifespan of a residential solar inverter. In Part 2 of our series, we look at solar inverters.