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Redflow’s Advanced Battery Technology Takes Center Stage in Pioneering US Project

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Redflow Limited (ASX: RFX), a global leader in clean energy storage, is making waves in the renewable energy sector as its zinc-bromine battery technology has been identified as the preferred choice for a cutting-edge project recommended for grant funding by the California Energy Commission (CEC).

“The Barona Community LDES Project signifies a significant leap forward in our journey towards greater energy resiliency and sustainability,” says Raymond Welch, Barona Tribal Council Chairman. “This initiative will help the Band achieve greater energy sovereignty through control over our own energy resources.”

The Barona Band of Mission Indians’ innovative project, named the Barona Community LDES Project, has received a nod from the CEC for its focus on energy storage for resilience. The project, aimed at delivering improved resiliency and sustainability, features a 6.6 MWh flow battery system powered by Redflow’s advanced zinc-bromine battery technology.

Working in collaboration with Prosper Sustainably and Microgrid Initiatives, the Barona Band, along with Redflow Limited and Ameresco, has successfully prepared the proposal that stood out as the first-ranked submission from a pool of twelve projects in a competitive solicitation process. The AUD $20.1 million Barona project has been recommended for a substantial grant of AUD $13.8 million by the CEC.

“The recognition from the California Energy Commission reaffirms the technological prowess of Redflow in the clean energy storage sector,” notes Tim Harris, Redflow CEO and Managing Director. “This project showcases Redflow’s technology capabilities on a commercial multi-megawatt hour scale, delivering greater resiliency and grid-infrastructure benefits.”

The grant terms are currently in negotiation, with the goal of commencing development activities for the energy project in the second half of this year and an anticipated deployment timeframe in 2025. Funded by the CEC’s Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) program, this initiative is designed to support the Barona Band of Mission Indians in delivering reliable, resilient, and sustainable clean energy to their community while also opening up economic development opportunities for the Tribe.

Redflow CEO and Managing Director, Tim Harris, expressed enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing that the project will deliver greater resiliency and grid-infrastructure benefits for the Barona Band of Mission Indians while providing a lifetime of energy cost savings unmatched by competing battery energy storage system (BESS) technologies.

“Subject to completion of the grant award process, this would be Redflow’s fourth multi-megawatt hour project in California involving the CEC as a funding partner,” Harris added. “Redflow’s LDES technology is flexible, allowing for a 100% depth of discharge without impairing BESS capacity or lifespan, aligning seamlessly with California’s decarbonization goals.”

For more information about the project and the conditions under which the funding is awarded, you can visit the CEC’s website. Redflow’s innovative contributions to this project underscore its commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and driving the transition towards a more sustainable future.

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Empowering Communities: The Rise of Microgrid Solar Power Systems

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In a world seeking sustainable and decentralized energy solutions, microgrid solar power systems have emerged as a beacon of hope, revolutionising the way communities generate, store, and consume electricity. A recent article published by The New York Times on August 7, 2023, titled “Microgrid Solar Power: Paving the Way for Energy Independence,” sheds light on the transformative potential of these innovative energy networks.

According to the New York Times, “Microgrid solar power systems represent a paradigm shift in how we think about energy generation and distribution. These localized systems are changing the landscape of power generation, making communities more resilient and environmentally responsible.”

The article delves into the intricate workings of microgrid solar power systems and their remarkable ability to provide localized, resilient, and environmentally-friendly energy solutions. As global concerns about climate change and the depletion of finite fossil fuels intensify, the spotlight is increasingly turning towards renewable energy sources, and microgrids are stepping into the limelight as a promising solution.

More about Microgrids

At the heart of the microgrid concept lies its capacity to generate electricity on a small scale, catering to specific community needs. Dr. Emily Rodriguez, an energy expert interviewed for the article, explains that “Microgrids empower communities by allowing them to take control of their energy production. This localized approach not only reduces transmission losses but also enhances energy security and helps mitigate the impacts of climate change.”

One of the most remarkable aspects highlighted by The New York Times article is the resilience that microgrid solar power systems offer. In an era marked by unpredictable weather events and natural disasters, these systems serve as energy lifelines, providing uninterrupted power to critical facilities such as hospitals, emergency shelters, and communication centers. The New York Times quotes Mark Johnson, CEO of a leading microgrid solutions provider, saying, “Microgrids are the future of reliable energy supply. By incorporating energy storage technologies, these systems ensure a constant power supply, even during disruptions.”

Furthermore, the article highlights the economic benefits of microgrid solar power systems for communities. As energy costs continue to fluctuate, and concerns about energy security persist, many communities are embracing the microgrid model as a means of reducing their reliance on traditional utility companies. According to the article, “Microgrids not only offer energy resilience but also stimulate local economies. Job creation in the renewable energy sector and reduced energy expenses are just some of the positive outcomes observed in communities adopting microgrids.”

The potential for microgrid solar power systems is vast, and the article underscores ongoing initiatives and projects that are already making waves across the United States. For example, the Brooklyn Microgrid is highlighted as a pioneering project that allows residents to buy and sell excess energy generated by their solar panels within the community. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainable energy practices but also empowers local residents to become active participants in the energy market.

In conclusion, the recent article by The New York Times serves as a rallying cry for the widespread adoption of microgrid solar power systems. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is imperative that we explore sustainable, adaptable, and resilient energy solutions. Microgrids, with their ability to generate clean energy at a local level, hold the key to a future powered by the sun, harnessed by communities, and safeguarded against the uncertainties of the modern world.

More reading – References and Links to Established Microgrids:

1. Brooklyn Microgrid: The Brooklyn Microgrid is a groundbreaking project that allows local residents to trade solar energy within their community. Learn more about this innovative initiative at (https://www.brooklynmicrogrid.com/).

2. Clean Energy Group: The Clean Energy Group is a nonprofit organization that actively promotes the adoption of microgrids and other clean energy solutions. Explore their work and resources at (https://www.cleanegroup.org/).

3. Energy.gov: The U.S. Department of Energy provides valuable insights and information on microgrid technologies and their benefits. Discover more about microgrids at (https://www.energy.gov/oe/services/technology-development/smart-grid/microgrids).

4. Rocky Mountain Institute: The Rocky Mountain Institute offers research and case studies on microgrids, showcasing their potential to transform the energy landscape. Explore their microgrid resources at (https://rmi.org/our-work/electricity/microgrids/).

5. Green Energy Communities: Learn about successful microgrid implementations in various communities across the United States at (http://www.greenenergycommunities.net/).

 

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Fraunhofer’s new photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) module has an efficiency of 80%.

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Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE), one of the world’s leading solar research institutes, has announced a significant breakthrough in solar technology. The institute has confirmed that its new photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) module has an efficiency of 80%.

PVT modules are a type of hybrid solar panel that can generate both electricity and heat simultaneously. This technology is gaining popularity because it can produce more energy per unit area than traditional solar panels. However, PVT modules have not been as efficient as their traditional counterparts. This breakthrough from Fraunhofer ISE could change that.

The new PVT module from Fraunhofer ISE combines a photovoltaic cell with a thermal absorber. The photovoltaic cell converts sunlight into electricity, while the thermal absorber collects the heat from the sun. The module also has a heat exchanger that transfers the collected heat to a hot water storage tank.

According to Dr. Harry Wirth, Division Director of Photovoltaic Modules, Systems and Reliability at Fraunhofer ISE, “Our new PVT module achieves an efficiency of 80%. This is a significant improvement over previous PVT modules, which typically have an efficiency of around 50%.”

Dr. Wirth also highlighted the benefits of the new technology, saying “The higher efficiency of our PVT module means that it can produce more energy per unit area. This makes it particularly well-suited for applications where space is limited, such as on rooftops or in urban areas.”

The Fraunhofer ISE team achieved this breakthrough by optimizing the design of the PVT module. They used advanced modeling and simulation techniques to study the behavior of the module under different conditions. This allowed them to identify the optimal design parameters that would maximize the module’s efficiency.

This breakthrough from Fraunhofer ISE could have significant implications for the solar industry. PVT modules are becoming increasingly popular, and this breakthrough could accelerate their adoption. It could also lead to the development of more efficient PVT modules in the future.

The Fraunhofer ISE team is now working to commercialize the new PVT module. They are partnering with companies in the solar industry to bring the technology to market. Dr. Wirth said, “We believe that our new PVT module has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate and use energy. We are excited to see where this technology will take us in the future.”

The development of this new PVT module was supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as part of the research project “SolSpaces.” The project aimed to develop innovative energy systems for buildings.

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Agrivoltaics: Combining Agriculture and Solar Power

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Agrivoltaics, also known as agrophotovoltaics, is the practice of co-locating solar panels with crops or livestock on farms, ranches, and other agricultural land.

The concept of agrivoltaics dates back to the early 1980s, when researchers in Germany first investigated the potential benefits of integrating photovoltaic (PV) systems with agricultural land use. The idea has since gained traction, and agrivoltaic systems are now being implemented in various parts of the world. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), there were more than 3,500 agrivoltaic systems globally in 2021, with a total installed capacity of approximately 2.9 GW.

The benefits of agrivoltaics are numerous. By co-locating solar panels with crops, farmers can increase their land-use efficiency, reduce water usage, and improve crop yields. The shade provided by the solar panels also helps to mitigate heat stress on crops during hot summer months, which can reduce crop losses and improve the quality of the produce. Moreover, agrivoltaic systems can provide an additional source of income for farmers, as they can sell the excess solar energy generated back to the grid or use it for on-farm operations.

One example of an agrivoltaic system in action is the Horticulture Solar Power Project in Japan, which was developed by Kyocera Corporation in collaboration with local farmers. The project involves installing PV modules on a 25-hectare agricultural site, where a variety of crops are grown, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants. The system has been in operation since 2013 and has demonstrated a 30% increase in crop yields compared to conventional farming methods, as well as a 15% reduction in water usage.

Another example of agrivoltaics being used in the real world is the Fraunhofer Institute’s “Solar Harvest” project in Germany. The project involves integrating PV systems with vineyards to create a dual-use system that maximizes land-use efficiency. The solar panels are mounted on elevated structures above the grapevines, providing shade and reducing heat stress on the plants. The system has been shown to increase grape yields by up to 25% and reduce water usage by up to 40%.

Agrivoltaics have also been implemented in India, where the lack of available land for solar installations has led to the development of floating solar PV systems on agricultural reservoirs. The systems not only generate renewable energy but also help to reduce water evaporation and improve water quality for irrigation.

Several studies have also demonstrated the effectiveness of agrivoltaics. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that co-locating solar panels with crops can increase land-use efficiency by up to 60%, and reduce water usage by up to 75%. Another study by the University of Arizona found that agrivoltaic systems can increase crop yields by up to 73%, depending on the type of crop and the design of the system.

The cost of implementing agrivoltaic systems can be higher than traditional farming methods, and the design of the system must be carefully planned to avoid shading the crops too much or damaging the solar panels. Additionally, the management of the dual-use system can be more complex, requiring specialized knowledge and skills.

Agrivoltaics offer a promising solution to the challenges of increasing demand for food and energy. By combining agriculture and solar power, farmers can increase their land-use efficiency, reduce water usage, improve crop yields, and generate renewable energy. While there are challenges associated with implementing agrivoltaic systems, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile investment for the future of sustainable agriculture. As the technology and knowledge around agrivoltaics continue to evolve, it is likely that we will see more widespread adoption of this innovative approach to land use.

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Seraphim announce 580 W TOPCon solar panels.

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Seraphim, one of the leading solar module manufacturers in the world, has announced the launch of their new 580 W TOPCon solar panels. The panels are touted to have an impressive efficiency rate of 22.45%, which is a remarkable achievement in the solar industry. This development is a significant breakthrough in the technology of photovoltaic cells, which generate electricity from sunlight.

In order to create the ultimate cost-effective product, Seraphim launched a new generation of ultra-high efficiency modules, the S5 bifacial series. The new series integrates 210mm silicon wafers, with PERC, bifacial, multi-busbar cell technology and high-density encapsulation. The maximum power output on the front side of the two formats, 60 and 66, have both exceeded 600W. Meanwhile, based on different installation environments, the rear side power generation gain is between 10-30%.
Seraphim S5 Bifacial Solar Panel
 
In order to create the ultimate cost-effective product, Seraphim launched a new generation of ultra-high efficiency modules, the S5 bifacial series. The new series integrates 210mm silicon wafers, with PERC, bifacial, multi-busbar cell technology and high-density encapsulation. The maximum power output on the front side of the two formats, 60 and 66, have both exceeded 600W. Meanwhile, based on different installation environments, the rear side power generation gain is between 10-30%. (source)

In a statement released by Seraphim, the company said that their new solar panel design is equipped with the latest technology, making it more efficient and cost-effective. The TOPCon technology used in the panels allows for higher energy yields, enabling the panels to produce more power with less space. The company further added that their panels have undergone rigorous testing and are rated to withstand extreme weather conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

“We are excited to announce the launch of our new 580 W TOPCon solar panels, which are the result of years of research and development. With our latest technology, we are confident that our panels will help our customers achieve their renewable energy goals and contribute to a sustainable future,” said Polaris Li, CEO of Seraphim.

The new solar panels by Seraphim have set a new benchmark for efficiency in the industry. The average efficiency rate of solar panels available in the market is around 16-18%, while the previous generation of TOPCon panels had an efficiency rate of around 21%. Seraphim’s new panels have exceeded this benchmark by achieving an efficiency rate of 22.45%, making them one of the most efficient solar panels available in the market today.

This breakthrough in solar panel technology is not only significant for the industry but also for the environment. The increased efficiency rate means that less space is required to produce the same amount of energy, resulting in reduced land use and environmental impact. It also means that more energy can be produced using the same amount of resources, which could lead to a reduction in the cost of solar energy.

In conclusion, Seraphim’s new 580 W TOPCon solar panels with 22.45% efficiency are a significant development in the solar industry. The increased efficiency rate and advanced technology used in these panels are expected to contribute to the growth of renewable energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. As Polaris Li, CEO of Seraphim, stated, “With this latest development, we hope to lead the way in the solar industry and continue to innovate towards a sustainable future.”

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