TERREPOWER, BBB Industries’ solar division, has introduced a solar panel recycling line at its Sparta, Tennessee facility. Using its automated recycling machine, TERREPOWER aims to efficiently separate aluminum, glass, precious metals, silicon, plastic, and components for reuse. The new facility can process up to 160,000 panels annually, covering both monocrystalline and polycrystalline types. In the past year, TERREPOWER recycled over 2,000,000 lbs. (about 907,184 kg) of solar panels, equivalent to about 40,000 panels, through partnerships. With in-house recycling, it aims to recycle 8,000,000 lbs. (about 3,628,736 kg) annually. The company is also planning to collaborate with partners to repurpose materials like glass for construction and aluminum locally.
GameChange Solar wins 500 MW deal in Southern Africa
GameChange Solar, a global solar tracking solutions provider, has secured four contracts for over 500 MW of solar projects in Southern Africa. The projects, situated in South Africa and Zimbabwe, aim to bolster regional energy supply, particularly for mining operations. In South Africa, projects include a Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Program (RMIPPP) project and two private sector initiatives in the Northern Cape and Limpopo regions for mining operations. The Zimbabwe project involves phase 1 of the Zimplats solar plant, catering to Zimplats’ platinum mining operations. These ventures underscore collaboration among private entities, government bodies, and energy stakeholders. Additionally, GameChange Solar has recently announced the establishment of a training and service center in South Africa for its Genius Tracker products.
Azerbaijan launches its first PV auction for Gobustan
The Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), has announced the nation’s inaugural renewable energy auction for a 100 MW solar power plant in Gobustan. Interested parties can access application details on the Ministry’s website and request documentation starting April 30, with submission deadlines by June 14. Azerbaijan’s recent governmental reforms and legislative efforts are geared towards attracting private green finance, with the EBRD assisting in establishing legal and regulatory frameworks. The EBRD has facilitated key green projects in Azerbaijan, including financing the first utility-scale solar plant in Garadagh and the largest wind farm in Absheron and Khizi.
Hecate Energy gets approval for Cumberland Solar
Hecate Energy, a leading US renewable energy developer, has secured approval for its Cumberland Solar Facility, a 150 MW project in Cumberland County, Virginia. The project, valued at $200 million, was approved by the Cumberland County Board of Supervisors on March 12, promising $14 million in direct payments to the county and significant regional economic benefits. Spanning nearly 1,000 acres in Northern Cumberland County’s Cartersville community, the solar farm aims to begin construction in 2028, with operations scheduled for 2030. Once operational, the plant is planned to generate 300,000 MWh annually, powering 37,500 Virginia households and offsetting 138,800 tons of CO2 emissions each year. Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality is expected to issue a permit by 2024 or early 2025.
Nextracker introduces low carbon solar tracker solution
Nextracker has announced the availability of its flagship NX Horizon™ solar tracker system, boasting a 35% reduced carbon footprint. The low carbon solution, initially available in the US, is supported by comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) documentation and Carbon Trust Product Carbon Footprint label certification. Through Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) processing, utilizing recycled steel and electricity, Nextracker minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, unlike traditional Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) methods. This strategy not only aligns with environmental objectives but also utilizes the American scrap steel supply, promoting efficiency and fostering growth in the US steel industry. Additionally, Nextracker has reduced carbon-intensive materials like aluminum in its NX Horizon low carbon offering.
KACO unveils inverters tailored for C&I applications
KACO new energy has introduced blueplanet 50.0 NX3 and 60.0 NX3 inverters, designed to cater to the specific requirements of commercial and industrial solar applications. With five Maximum Power Point (MPP) trackers, these inverters offer flexibility in managing complex roof configurations, enabling efficient energy production even in challenging conditions. They offer versatility to accommodate various roof types, including angled and partial roofs. These inverters employ shade management technology to mitigate shading effects from structures like chimneys. Additionally, the inverter’s ability to operate from 200 V in low light conditions. These inverters support high-power PV modules featuring 182 mm (M10) and 210 mm (M12) wafers.
Maxeon alleges patent infringement by Hanwha Q CELLS
Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Hanwha Q CELLS in the Eastern District of Texas. The lawsuit alleges infringement of Maxeon patents related to TOPCon solar cell technology. Maxeon boasts nearly 40 years of solar research and development, with over $0.5 billion invested since 2007. The company holds a global patent portfolio of over 1,650 granted patents and more than 330 pending patent applications for its IBC, Shingled Hypercell, and TOPCon technologies. This legal action follows Maxeon’s previous TOPCon patent infringement investigation in the United States initiated in November 2023.
Two Texas-based solar projects reach completion
Monarch Private Capital, an investment firm, and Elawan Energy, a global renewable operator, have announced the completion of two solar projects in Q4 2023. The projects total around 147 MW and are located in Hill County and Bosque County, Texas. Pitts Dudik has a capacity of 60.26 MW, and Dileo adds 86.67 MW. The projects are projected to abate 4,688,232 CO2e MT over 40 years, equal to emissions from a million gasoline cars driven for a year, while creating nearly 600 jobs.
UVcell Solar expands reach with SolarFeeds acquisition
UVcell Solar, a prominent player in large-scale solar solutions, has acquired SolarFeeds.com, a leading online marketplace for solar equipment. This acquisition aims to bolster UVcell Solar’s services and digital presence. Willie Jiang, the founder of SolarFeeds, will now serve as UVcell Solar’s Chief Marketing Officer, bringing his industry expertise to the team. This strategic move aligns with the shared vision and strengths of both companies, promising exceptional value for customers. Together, they aim to establish a comprehensive platform for commercial and industrial solar solutions worldwide, offering seamless experiences for both buyers and suppliers.
Trina Solar wins Top Energy Innovation Award
Trina Solar’s Waterloo Terrace project has garnered the “Top Energy Innovation of the Year Award” in the Environment + Energy Leader Awards. The 250 KW Waterloo rooftop PV system, powered by Trina’s Vertex modules, was installed at Foundation Communities’ Waterloo Terrace apartment complex in Austin, Texas. Spear, an Austin-based EPC company, executed the installation. Commissioned by Foundation Communities, the system has generated over 583 MWh of renewable energy. Foundation Communities, a non-profit housing organization, manages multiple affordable housing communities, including Waterloo Terrace. Trina’s comprehensive solar solution enabled Spear to fulfill Foundation Communities’ sustainability objectives effectively.