Recurrent Energy – Canadian Solar’s wholly owned subsidiary for global project development and power services – has secured $112 million in project financing for its 160 MW North Fork Solar project, located 100 miles southwest of Oklahoma City. NordLB acted as coordinating lead arranger and joint lead arranger. Rabobank acted as joint lead arranger. The project is expected to be operational in 2024.

Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority (OMPA), which serves 42 municipally owned electric systems in Oklahoma, will purchase 100% of the energy produced by North Fork Solar under a 15-year agreement. OMPA’s power purchase agreement with Recurrent Energy marks the municipal utility’s first solar energy transaction. OMPA’s power supply comes from a variety of resources, including 151 MW of Oklahoma wind.

Recurrent Energy began development of North Fork Solar in 2018. It is Recurrent’s first project in Oklahoma and first project in the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the bulk electric grid and wholesale power market operator across 15 states in the central United States. Solar energy currently makes up less than 1% of the energy resource mix in SPP.

Recurrent Energy selected Blattner Energy as the engineering, procurement and construction partner for North Fork Solar. Once operational, the project will produce enough electricity to power 35,000 homes.

Photo by Justin Bennett on Unsplash

Continue reading

AEROCOMPACT, an Austrian company producing PV racking systems for diverse roofs and ground-mounted setups, has unveiled its new rail-based mounting system – the COMPACTFLAT SN 2, ideal for large solar panels. This solution caters to all common module sizes, including large-format solar modules measuring up to 2348 mm wide by 1303 mm long.

The COMPACTFLAT SN 2 complements AEROCOMPACT’s existing bracket-based flat roof system, the COMPACTFLAT S. Featuring long side clamping for optimal loading capability, this modular system offers versatility for all flat roofs. The SN 2 system uses the same components for both south-facing and east/west-facing configurations.

The COMPACTFLAT SN 2 is a large module racking solution that has substantial load-bearing capacity and resilience against extreme weather events. Designed for quick installation, it also comes with multiple options for mechanically attaching the system to the roof. Intelligently designed components ensure straightforward, efficient installation. By year’s end AEROCOMPACT will introduce additional variants and accessory options to the SN 2 product.

AEROCOMPACT is also introducing its SN 2 Q+ system, which places modules in an east-west configuration that can accommodate high wind and snow loads. The SN 2 Q+ system uses a shared rail design resulting in a more cost-effective product. SN 2 Q+ can accommodate module sizes up to 1310 mm wide by 2500 mm long.

Continue reading

Doing so requires a modification of the project’s grid connection, and the costs of connecting a grid-scale battery to the grid are still to be fully clarified by the transmission system operator (TSO).

Mirko Medenica, head of CEE and Southeast Europe development for Woodburn, expects the regulations to be finalised by TSO Hrvatski operator prijenosnog sustava (Croatian transmission system operator, or HOPS) in the first 15-20 days of September.

“We have some expectations around what these will look like but for now we are designing our BESS project to be 25-30% of the size of the solar PV plant,” Medenica said.

Effective regulations and a stable business case

Medenica also noted that the regulations around BESS technology providing capacity market, balancing and ancillary services on the grid has already been finalised and the technology is eligible to provide all of them.

Assuming the regulations and cost of connection do not affect the business case of the BESS, he expects the company to be able to reach commercial operation on the project around Q3 2024. Meanwhile, the solar PV plant will start construction in September of this year and will take around three months.

The company then plans to apply a similar model to other co-located projects in Croatia. Woodburn’s background is mainly in biomass generation but in recent years it has increasingly expanded into solar and wind.

The BESS project’s participation in the market will be managed by an aggregator while Woodburn has not yet settled on a BESS technology provider. The irony is that the aggregators active in the Croatian market originate from Czechia, where BESS is still not allowed to provide capacity market or balancing services on the grid. As such, Czechia has seen next to no new grid-scale energy storage announced in recent years.

The Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development in Croatia issued a €20 million (US$21.7 million) funding call for renewable energy, energy efficiency and energy storage projects earlier this year, and Medenica said that next year will see one dedicated to co-located projects.

Energy-Storage.news’ publisher Solar Media will host the inaugural Energy Storage Summit Central Eastern Europe on 26-27 September this year in Warsaw, Poland. This event will bring together the region’s leading investors, policymakers, developers, utilities, energy buyers and service providers all in one place, as the region readies itself for storage to take off. Visit the official site for more info.

Continue reading

The lithium batteries will have a five-hour duration, will be provided by inverter and battery storage technology supplier Sungrow and be charged by the energy generated from the 114MW solar plant that reached commercial operation in February 2022.

This is not the only BESS project the company is currently developing, and expects to soon reach over 1GWh of storage capacity, thanks to BESS Coya which is expected to have a storage capacity of 638MWh.

“We believe that storage systems are a fundamental pillar of our ESG commitment, and this is why we will continue developing this technology”, said Rosaline Corinthien, CEO of ENGIE Chile.

Chile has seen it’s activity in BESS projects accelerate since the passing of a major bill late last year to facilitate energy storage activity in the country’s electricity market, all while the Chilean government is seeking multiple-gigawatts of large-scale storage in the coming years.

Last month AES Andes, a subsidiary of US utility AES Corporation, completed Latin America’s “largest” battery system project with 112MW/560MWh of capacity in Antofagasta.

Enel Green Power Chile started construction on a solar-plus-storage project with a 67MW BESS in the Metropolitan region, near the capital, Santiago, while developer Colbun commissioned the first of an 800MW pipeline late last year.

BESS units being built in Chile are set to have a discharge duration of 4-5 hours in order to capitalise on the capacity market, solar load shifting and energy trading revenues that will account for the bulk of project revenues.

Returning for the second edition in Santiago, Chile, the Energy Storage Summit Latin America will explore opportunities in countries such as Chile, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. Join Solar Media on October 17-18 to meet with investors, policy makers, developers, utilities, network operators, technology providers, EPCs, consultants, law firms and more to make sure you are a part of the rapidly evolving storage landscape in Latin America.

Continue reading

Clenera, an Enlight Company specializing in utility-scale solar farms and energy storage, has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Arizona Public Service (APS), Arizona’s largest utility, for 258 MW of solar and 824 MWh of battery storage at the CO Bar complex outside of Flagstaff, Ariz.

The CO Bar complex is a solar and storage complex being developed by Clenera, a subsidiary of Enlight Renewable Energy. The complex comprising a total of 1.2 GW and 824 MWh of battery storage is expected to be one of the largest renewable energy installations in the United States.

“We are excited to work with APS to develop the first combined solar and storage project at the CO Bar complex and help drive Arizona’s clean energy initiatives to deliver affordable, clean power to households in the state,” says Gilad Yavetz, CEO of Enlight.

The agreement with APS reflects the third power purchase agreement signed at the complex – but the first with battery storage. Post execution of the PPA with APS, the entire complex is now contracted to leading utilities in Arizona. The complex is on schedule to commence construction by the end of the year and to reach operation in phases over the course of 2025.

Image by tawatchai07 on Freepik

Continue reading

Peregrine said that its pipeline spans ten states and five independent system operators, and the capacity of this pipeline exceeds 7GW of standalone solar, energy storage and wind projects.

Alternative investment and asset manager AB CarVal, which owns the ‘largest’ low-income community solar project in California, Fresno’s DAC solar farm, provided funding for Peregrine’s upcoming projects.

Energy-Storage.news has covered Peregrine Energy Solutions’ BESS operations in the past. In February, the company announced investment from South Korean alternative asset management company IMM Investment Global for a BESS portfolio, after acquiring two projects from Black Mountain Energy with a combined capacity of 490MW.

To see the original version of this article go to PV Tech Power.

Continue reading

The project was awarded under Phase 2 of the UK’s Stability Pathfinder programme, which aims to replace the synchronous fossil fuel generators that have historically worked to provide stability through those services. National Grid ESO completed Phase 1 of the Stability Pathfinders programme, which comprised 12 new units, earlier this year, as reported by our sister site Current. Fluence’s announcement did not say when the project would be commissioned, however.

Lloyd Godwin, Principal Project Manager at Statkraft commented: “We are pleased to be working with Fluence who will be providing the technology for our Neilston Greener Grid Park project, which has recently started construction.”

“The project will provide an essential service to stabilise the power grid and allow more renewable energy to be transmitted through the network, without relying on coal and gas-fired power stations,” added Godwin. “This means fewer harmful emissions, and lower bills for consumers, because renewable energy is cheaper.”

It is Fluence’s first BESS project connected directly to the transmission network, the company said. This means it connects directly into the high-voltage transmission network run by National Grid, rather than the lower-voltage distribution networks run by distribution network operators.

The benefits of direct connection are a more reliable grid connection and greater visibility in the National Grid ESO control room. In the past, it also meant a quicker grid connection as fewer companies were deploying projects on the high-voltage network, although this has shifted over the last few years.

It brings Fluence’s total BESS deployments in the UK and Ireland to 1.4GWh, and is its third in partnership with Statkraft.

Fluence has also earmarked the BESS-as-a-transmission-asset segment as a strategic focus, launching a dedicated product, the Ultrastack, for projects solely serving the needs of transmission system operators. It recently won its second order for such a project in Germany and is deploying them elsewhere too.

The company also today announced the opening of an India Innovation Centre which will serve as a global center of excellence to support Fluence’s growth globally.

“India has set tremendous energy transition targets and the rapid build-out of energy storage is needed for meeting those targets,” said Fluence senior vice president and president, APAC Jan Teichmann. “The future in India is bright and we look forward to continuing to partner with customers locally and supporting the clean energy transition in India and globally.”

Continue reading

“We are excited to work with APS to develop the first combined solar and storage project at the CO Bar complex and help drive Arizona’s clean energy initiatives to deliver affordable, clean power to households in the state,” said Gilad Yavetz, Enlight CEO.

The news follows Clēnera’s signing of two PPAs for the CO Bar facility with the Salt River Project, a separate Arizona utility, and the entirety of the project’s planned solar capacity is now accounted for with corporate arrangements. The deal with APS, however, is the first PPA to include the project’s battery storage components.

The agreement is APS’ latest involvement in the Arizona battery sector, following the signing of a toiling arrangement with Canadian Solar for a 1.2GWh battery storage project. The US Solar Energy Industries Association reported that, in the first quarter of this year, Arizona contained the fifth-most solar capacity of any US state, and expects the state to add 10.6GW of new capacity over the next five years.

This article was originally published on our sister site PV Tech.

Continue reading

Under the theme “Renewing what’s possible,” RE+ 2023 brings together top companies and experts in the clean energy sector to present cutting-edge solutions. BLUETTI will take center stage, showcasing its upcoming EP800 system ahead of its official release on September 15.

The EP800 is an off-grid home energy storage system with a power output of 7,600W at 120V or 240V. It meets the energy needs of large household appliances and power tools such as clothes dryers, electric stoves, and pool pumps. Its modular design allows users to choose from two to four B500 battery packs for a maximum of 19,840Wh, which can power an entire home for several days during an extended power outage.

An outstanding feature of the EP800 is its compatibility with existing and newly-installed solar systems using DC coupling. This allows it to store excess solar power at a maximum rate of 9,000W for later use, ensuring a continuous power supply even at night and during blackouts.

Additionally, the EP800’s installation is hassle-free. Within hours, it can be up and running under the roof or in the garage, providing sufficient emergency power backup to live off the grid.

Its NEMA4X rating enables indoor and outdoor installation, protecting against dust, splash, and corrosion. The EP800’s long-lasting LiFePO4 battery and a 10-year warranty ensure worry-free usage for years to come.

BLUETTI’s new arrival is further proof of the company’s strong R&D capabilities and focus on user needs. Before the EP800, BLUETTI launched the EP900, a 9,000W on/off-grid system that has been very successful in the market. Using the same B500 batteries, the EP900 also offers a flexible capacity from 9,920Wh to 19,840Wh.

Both the EP900 and EP800 share features such as a long-life LiFePO4 battery, a 10-year warranty, BLUETTI APP connectivity, and peak-load-shifting function. Users can store low-cost grid power during off-peak hours and discharge it during peak hours, optimising energy consumption and saving on energy bills.

Those with rooftop solar can benefit even more from this grid-tied battery system. The EP900 comes with triple MPPT charge controllers that maximise solar input at 9,000W, making it easier for users to achieve solar energy independence and earn additional credits by selling excess solar power back to the grid.

In addition to powering homes, BLUETTI recognises the diverse energy needs of customers outside the house and has developed a range of portable energy storage products. Among the most popular products are the camping companions EB3A, EB55, EB70S, and the mid-size RV travel must-have AC200P.

At RE+ 2023, BLUETTI will spotlight its two new offerings: the water-resistant AC60 and the powerful AC180. The AC60 has a capacity of 403Wh in a compact package weighing only 9.1kg. It is also expandable with up to two B80 battery packs, bringing its peak capacity to 2,015Wh.

Featuring industry-leading Power-Lifting technology, the AC60 can handle resistive loads up to 1,200W, including electric blankets, kettles, hairdryers, and other heating devices. With an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, the AC60 can power more scenarios such as boating, beach parties, sailing, and more. Charging the AC60 is easy and flexible, either via wall outlets, solar panels, or car ports. It takes just one hour to fully charge the AC60 with 600W fast AC charging.

The AC180 delivers a powerful 1,800W of continuous power and can handle heating devices up to 2,700W in Power Lifting mode, making it suitable for all off-grid essentials from BBQ grills to refrigerators, and heaters. Its 1,152Wh power storage provides ample juice for devices without compromising mobility. With built-in handles, it can be carried anywhere.

A variety of outputs, including AC outlet, USB-A, USB-C, 12V DC outlet, and wireless charging pad, are designed for versatile charging for off-grid living or emergency backup. It also supports a 45-minute charge from 0% to 80% with 1,150W turbocharging. Both generators have garnered rave reviews since their debut, and their offline versions will be available this September.

How to see the products, and the BLUETTI team, at RE+

Event Details

Date: Sept. 11 to Sept. 14, 2023

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. PDT

Booth: #20074, Hall G, Level 1

Location: The Venetian Convention and Expo Center, Las Vegas, NV

At RE+ 2023, BLUETTI has prepared a series of expert presentations and product demonstration sessions, allowing the audience to get an up-close look at its state-of-art energy storage products and engage in in-depth conversations with BLUETTI’s technical experts. The company also plans to host various interactive activities to enrich the overall experience for visitors.

BLUETTI’s participation in RE+ 2023 is a testament to its commitment to making clean energy accessible to every household for a sustainable future.

Through its latest offerings, BLUETTI is introducing eco-friendly energy solutions for an easy transition to solar power and energy independence. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the BLUETTI booth at RE+ 2023 and experience the future of clean energy.

Try BLUETTI EP800 Free for 30 Days!

BLUETTI is currently running an Energy Freedom Program to help households reduce their energy bills and achieve power independence. 30 households with monthly bills over US$100 can apply for a free trial of the EP800 system for a full month. After the trial, they can either return the product at no cost or keep it for an incredible 40% off the retail price. Give it a try as the trial is totally money and worry free. All it takes is a few clicks to sign up, and BLUETTI will take care of everything from shipping to installation.

Limited offer, grab it now!

About BLUETTI

BLUETTI has been committed to promoting sustainability and green energy solutions since its inception. By offering eco-friendly energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use, BLUETTI aims to provide exceptional experiences for our homes while also contributing to a sustainable future for our planet. This commitment to sustainable energy has helped BLUETTI expand its reach to over 100 countries and gain the trust of millions of customers worldwide.

Continue reading

Avangrid Inc., a sustainable energy company and part of the Iberdrola Group, has partnered with LineVision Inc. on a pilot project to unlock additional capacity on its transmission lines for renewable energy in New York state.

The project will deploy advanced monitoring for overhead transmission lines in the area of Hornell, N.Y., with the goal of reducing grid congestion by providing real-time data on where additional power can safely flow through the existing transmission infrastructure. This critical data and visibility could aid in linking more renewable energy resources into New York’s electrical grid and supporting the state’s clean energy goals.

The amount of energy that electric transmission lines can safely carry is variable. Historically, the lines have been operated using static line ratings that tell grid operators a lines’ energy capacity based on conservative and fixed values for assumed weather conditions. However with LineVision’s advanced monitoring, Avangrid will be able to see real-time data, allowing for more flexibility to safely increase the amount of energy flowing through the transmission lines based on current conditions.

The advanced monitoring provides dynamic line ratings, which determine capacity limits of the power lines by combining real-time properties such as sag, temperature and forecasted weather conditions. This results in more informed grid operations and increased carrying capacity of the transmission lines without the need to make any large grid upgrades.

As part of the project, LineVision will partner with Avangrid’s electric utility operating company New York State Electric & Gas to install non-contact LiDAR sensors to monitor overhead transmission lines. The sensors will be installed on two of the company’s transmission lines: one that runs from Elma (Erie County) to Strykersville (Wyoming County), and the other that runs from Warsaw to Perry (both in Wyoming County).

Funding for the project was awarded to Avangrid and LineVision through round two of NYSERDA’s Future Grid Challenge program.

Continue reading