Solar
Erika and Achim Ginsberg-Klemmt
Solar
Jonathan Lwowski
Solar
Dr. Eric Schneller
Prysmian, a world leader in the energy transition and digital transformation, continues its support and partnership of the Andretti Formula E Team for a third consecutive year and for the ABB FIA Formula E Miami E-Prix on Saturday, April 12, 2025. In addition to the sponsorship, Prysmian will also provide solutions to support the Andretti team during the race through a pit garage monitoring system, Omhero, a technology that will identify energy consumption, power load and transmission for each vehicle.
“As the number one cable maker in the world and the industry leader for sustainable and innovative solutions, we are proud of our partnership with the Andretti Formula E Team for the Miami E-Prix race,” said Andrea Pirondini, CEO of Prysmian North America. “Formula E represents the pinnacle of innovation in electric vehicle technology and sustainable performance, and we are excited to play a role in powering the future of electric racing and to support the development of technologies that will shape the next generation of mobility.”
Prysmian, the first cable manufacturer to partner with a Formula E team, is renewing its partnership with Andretti for the 11th season. The collaboration supports the company’s ongoing efforts to advance innovation and sustainable development across strategic sectors, including e-mobility, renewable energy transmission and distribution, and digital infrastructure. Through this partnership, Prysmian continues to strengthen its role in enabling technologies that contribute to a more sustainable and connected future.
"Our partnership with Prysmian continues to be a pivotal factor in our pursuit of excellence on the track,” said Roger Griffiths, Team Principal, Andretti Formula E. “As we gear up for the Miami E-Prix, we are more confident than ever that this collaboration will help us push boundaries and deliver a standout performance.”
Prysmian will continue to be an integral force in advancing Andretti Formula E’s mission toward sustainable electrification. Building on a strong foundation of innovation, Prysmian’s cutting-edge technologies—such as the in-garage Omhero monitoring system—will remain essential in delivering real-time insights on energy usage, power quality and consumption, ensuring each vehicle operates at peak performance.
A dominant force in Formula E since its debut in 2014, Andretti has built its legacy on a foundation of precision engineering and high-performance excellence.
Created in 2011, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is a single-seater motorsport championship for electric cars. Taking place at the legendary Homestead-Miami Speedway, the World Championship returns to the U.S. after 11 seasons.
Prysmian North America | https://na.prysmian.com/
Researchers from Dongguk University have achieved a significant breakthrough in lithium-ion battery technology by developing a novel hybrid anode material. This innovative study introduces a hierarchical heterostructure composite that optimizes material interfaces at the nanoscale, resulting in remarkable enhancements in energy storage capacity and long-term cycling stability. This engineered structure integrates graphene oxide's superior conductivity with the energy storage capabilities of nickel-iron compounds for future electronics and energy solutions.
Lithium-ion batteries are the dominant energy storage technology powering everything from portable electronics to electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. However, the demand for higher energy density, faster charging, and longer lifespans necessitates continuous innovation.
Researchers, led by Professor Jae-Min Oh of Dongguk University, in collaboration with Seung-Min Paek of Kyungpook National University, are addressing these challenges by engineering materials at the nanoscale. Their work, available online on January 28, 2025, and published in volume 506 of the Chemical Engineering Journal on January 15, 2025, focuses on a novel hybrid material designed to maximize the synergistic effects of its components. This innovative composite is a hierarchical heterostructure that combines reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with nickel-iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe-LDH). This unique composite leverages the properties of its components: rGO provides a conductive network for electron transport, and the nickel-iron-oxide components enable fast charge storage through a pseudocapacitive mechanism. The key to this innovative design is the abundance of grain boundaries, which facilitate efficient charge storage.
To achieve the final composite, the researchers employed a layer-by-layer self-assembly technique using polystyrene (PS) bead templates. First, the PS beads were coated with GO and NiFe-LDH precursors. The templates were then removed, leaving behind a hollow sphere architecture. Following this, a controlled thermal treatment induced a phase transformation in NiFe-LDH, leading to the formation of nanocrystalline nickel-iron oxide (NiFe₂O₄) and amorphous nickel oxide (a-NiO), while simultaneously reducing GO to rGO. This synthesis resulted in a well-integrated hybrid composite (rGO/NiFe₂O₄/a-NiO), with enhanced conductivity making it an efficient anode material for lithium-ion batteries. This hollow structure prevents direct contact between the a-NiO/NiFe₂O₄ nanoparticles and the electrolyte, improving stability.
Advanced characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, were then used to confirm the composite's formation. Electrochemical tests revealed the material's exceptional performance as a lithium-ion battery anode. The anode demonstrated a high specific capacity of 1687.6 mA h g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 after 580 cycles, surpassing conventional materials and highlighting its excellent cycling stability. Furthermore, the material exhibited good rate performance, maintaining high capacity even at significantly increased charge/discharge rates.
Professor Seung-Min Paek emphasized the collaborative nature of the research, "This breakthrough was made possible through close cooperation between experts in diverse materials. By combining our strengths, we were able to design and optimize this hybrid system more effectively. "
Professor Jae-Min Oh added, "We anticipate that, in the near future, energy storage materials will move beyond simply improving individual components. Instead, they will involve multiple interacting materials that create synergy, resulting in more efficient and reliable energy storage devices. This research offers a pathway to smaller, lighter, and more efficient energy storage for next-generation electronic devices."
This development targets significantly improved batteries (longer life, faster charge, lighter) within 5-10 years, benefiting both device users and sustainable energy initiatives.
Dongguk University | https://www.dongguk.edu/eng/
Reference
Title of original paper: Phase change-induced heterointerface engineering of hollow sphere structured graphene oxide/layered double hydroxide composites for superior pseudocapacitive energy storage in lithium-ion batteries
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2025.159671
Galp, Portugal’s leading integrated energy company, and Powin, a U.S. based global energy storage integrator, completed the commissioning and injected the first electrons of stored energy to the grid from a utility-scale battery energy storage system at Galp’s largest solar power plant in the country.
Installed near Alcoutim, in the southern region of the Algarve, the 5 MW/20 MWh battery system, Powin’s first project in Europe, enhances the site’s ability to dispatch renewable energy to the grid when it needs it most and optimizes grid stability, thus becoming an important tool in the expanding market for grid system services.
With a combined capacity of 144 MW, the plants in the Alcoutim region produce enough energy to power 80,000 homes while avoiding 75,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year.
“We are leaping ahead in the learning curve, managing complex energy systems and offering a new range of services and opportunities to customers, while contributing to a stable and sustainable energy system,” said Georgios Papadimitriou, Galp’s Executive Vice-President of Renewables, New Business, and Innovation.
“This project represents a critical step in Powin’s journey as we expand internationally to meet the growing demand for energy storage solutions in Europe,” said Brian Kane, Chief Projects Officer at Powin. “By partnering with forward-thinking organizations like Galp and leveraging high-performance converter technology from Hitachi Energy, we’ve demonstrated our ability to deliver reliable and innovative solutions that help decarbonize the grid.”
The battery energy storage project utilizes Powin's Centipede Stack750 and a power conversion system from Hitachi Energy, underscoring the importance of partnership between global companies in supporting Europe’s energy transition.
“We appreciate the ongoing relationship with Powin and Galp,” said Alberto Prieto, Head of Power Conversion Solutions for Hitachi Energy. “Our converters remain the prime choice for IPPs and integrators seeking grid stability and flexibility, along with digital enablement for operations and business processes for a more sustainable and secure grid.”
Galp is one of the main producers of photovoltaic solar energy in the Iberian Peninsula, with 1.5 GW of installed renewable generation capacity and 400 MW new renewable capacity to be installed by 2026.
Galp | www.galp.com
Powin | www.powin.com
Vesper Energy hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 10, 2025, to celebrate the commercial operation of its flagship energy project, Hornet Solar, which is now fully operational. The event marks a major milestone not only for Vesper Energy, but also for Texas as a national leader in solar energy production.
Hornet Solar includes over 1.36 million modules and spans more than six square miles in Swisher County, Texas, making it one of the largest solar installations in the country. The project will contribute more than $100 million in new tax revenue to Swisher County and deliver 600 MWac of energy.
"Hornet Solar is a testament to how large-scale energy projects can deliver reliable, domestic power to American homes and businesses," said Juan Suarez, Co-Chief Executive Officer at Vesper Energy. "This project isn't just about solar panels—it's about making energy more affordable while strengthening our nation's energy security. With Hornet Solar fully operational, we're helping power a community with domestically generated electricity, ensuring businesses & communities have the energy they need to grow and thrive."
The event marked this milestone toward energy independence with guided tours of the project, speeches by Vesper executives, and networking. Attendees included:
Vesper Energy began construction on Hornet Solar in the Fall of 2023 and announced that it secured $590 million in financing to further advance the project in January 2024. Since its inception, Hornet Solar has achieved several major milestones, including the installation of its one-millionth solar panel in December 2024 and the installation of its final module in January 2025.
"The scale of Hornet Solar speaks for itself—1.36 million panels, over six square miles, and 600 MW of capacity. But the real impact is what this project delivers to Swisher County: more than $100 million in new tax revenue and meaningful investments in schools, infrastructure, and healthcare," said Zach Wald, Vice President, EPC.
Hornet Solar is generating significant economic benefits for Swisher County and the surrounding region. The project created over 300 jobs during construction and will contribute new tax revenue to essential public services, including $61 million for the Tulia Independent School District, $25 million for the County, and $12 million for the Swisher Memorial Hospital District.
Vesper Energy | www.vesperenergy.com/about
NovaCHARGE, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, is proud to highlight its ongoing partnership with Carter Electric Inc., a trusted and certified installer of NovaCHARGE’s comprehensive range of charging solutions. Carter Electric Inc. has been instrumental in installing reliable EV charging stations across multiple high-profile locations, including entertainment venues, hospitals, resorts, and more.
At the heart of this partnership is NovaCHARGE's commitment to reliability—both in hardware, software, and installation services. Carter Electric's dedication to ensuring that every installation meets the highest standards has allowed the Orlando-area businesses and institutions to confidently provide dependable charging solutions for their staff, guests, and customers. Since partnering with NovaCHARGE, Carter Electric has completed extensive training with our master electrician to become certified in installing our full range of EV charging systems, including Level 2 and DC Fast Charging (DCFC) stations.
“Reliability is the foundation of everything we do at NovaCHARGE, and Carter Electric Inc. has been an outstanding partner in ensuring that our EV charging infrastructure works flawlessly across a variety of environments,” said Oscar Rodriguez, CEO of NovaCHARGE. “From our cutting-edge hardware and intuitive software to the expert installations performed by Carter Electric, we can offer our clients the confidence that their charging stations will perform reliably day in and day out. Their commitment to our installer training program ensures that the installations are done right, contributing to the long-term success of every project.”
A Word from Carter Electric Inc.
"At Carter Electric Inc., we've been thrilled to partner with NovaCHARGE in bringing their innovative and reliable commercial EV charging solutions to businesses and organizations throughout the greater Central Florida area," said a representative from Carter Electric. "From the amazing Evermore Resort to your local [hospital] location, we've consistently found NovaCHARGE's products to be of exceptional quality, and their team to be a true asset to our EV operations."
Carter Electric highlights the benefits of NovaCHARGE’s innovative technology: "Their innovative AI self-diagnosis technology, NovaBOT, has been particularly beneficial for our clients and has allowed them to seamlessly integrate EV charging into their operations. On top of that, they are creating some of the most aesthetically pleasing units on the market; they are stunning and look great in all settings."
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
• Reliable Hardware: NovaCHARGE provides high-performance, dependable Level 2 and DCFC units designed to withstand the demands of high-traffic locations. With a reputation for durability and efficiency, our hardware ensures guests, employees, and businesses can rely on their charging stations, minimizing downtime and maximizing the user experience.
• Reliable Software: With NovaCHARGE's ChargeUp software, businesses can confidently manage their entire EV charging network. The software provides seamless integration, real-time monitoring, and performance analytics, ensuring the charging infrastructure remains operational and efficient at all times.
• Skilled and Reliable Installers: Carter Electric’s technicians are trained and certified to install NovaCHARGE’s full suite of EV charging solutions. Their expertise and commitment to quality installation ensures that every unit operates at peak performance and reliability. The training, led by our master electrician, equips Carter Electric's team with the specialized knowledge needed to handle complex installations and ensure long-term operational success.
• Commitment to Reliability Across All Areas: Reliability isn’t just about the hardware; it’s about the entire ecosystem. From the technology behind the charging stations to the quality of installation and the software that manages them, NovaCHARGE and Carter Electric Inc. ensure that every step of the process is designed for maximum reliability. This provides businesses and consumers alike with a seamless, dependable charging experience.
NovaCHARGE’s collaboration with Carter Electric is a key component of its strategy to provide high-performance, reliable, and scalable EV charging infrastructure. As the demand for electric vehicle charging continues to grow, NovaCHARGE and Carter Electric are committed to ensuring that the infrastructure is always up and running, helping to accelerate the transition to electric transportation and meet the increasing need for reliable charging solutions across various industries.
NovaCHARGE | www.novacharge.net
Carter Electric I https://www.carter-electric.com/
Enerflo, the premier residential solar sales and installation software platform, has announced a strategic partnership with OneEthos, powered by Climate First Bank, to transform the solar financing and installation experience. OneEthos provides solar installers and homeowners with access to the nation’s most ethical solar financing platform and is one of the only fintechs in the United States regulated by the Federal Reserve Bank. This collaboration enables residential solar installers and homeowners across the nation to benefit from a seamlessly integrated and affordable financing solution - helping accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.
Through this partnership, Enerflo users can offer homeowners access to solar financing with no dealer fees, a 30.5-year term*, and no prepayment penalties, making it the most affordable ethical solar financing option in the nation. Loan origination and processing are provided by Climate First Bank, the world’s first FDIC-insured digital community bank founded to combat the climate crisis, and the fastest growing new bank in the United States since 2009. This integration simplifies the financing process for installers while ensuring homeowners receive affordable solar loan options. Financing is available to all Enerflo partners now - Enerflo partners can access the offering by becoming an approved installer with OneEthos.
Key Benefits for Installers and Homeowners
No Dealer Fees Means Affordable Solar Financing
OneEthos never charges a dealer fee, saving your client up to 30% when financing solar and making the product the most affordable on the market. OneEthos also boasts no prepayment penalties and a 30.5-year term* - maximizing affordability and long-term savings.
Affordable Solar from Day One
By eliminating dealer fees from project costs which can add up to 30% to the cost of solar, the 30.5-year* loan is designed to lower monthly payments, making solar more accessible than ever before. In many cases, homeowners start saving on day one, making it one of the most cost-effective loan options available.
Faster Approvals & 100% Financing
Enerflo’s seamless integration with OneEthos eliminates friction in the loan process—installers can offer 100% financing, and most homeowners receive real-time loan decisions in as little as 30 seconds, accelerating project timelines.
Streamlined Sales & Install Experience
Installers using Enerflo benefit from an all-in-one sales and installation workflow, removing inefficiencies that typically delay solar projects. The financing process is now built directly into the Enerflo sales platform, reducing administrative work and keeping projects moving.
Nationwide Network of Vetted Installers
Homeowners can choose from a trusted network of accredited solar installers, ensuring quality installations that align with the mission of sustainable, responsible energy adoption.
Driving a More Sustainable Future, Together
"We're excited to partner with OneEthos, powered by Climate First Bank to make affordable solar financing more accessible,” said Spencer Oberan, Co-Founder of Enerflo. "This integration allows installers to focus on what they do best—delivering solar solutions and closing deals—while giving homeowners a seamless and affordable financing experience."
"This collaboration between Enerflo and OneEthos represents a major leap forward in making affordable solar financing the new standard," said Marcio deOliveira, Founder & CEO of OneEthos. "Our model provides the nation’s most competitive ethical solar financing program and together, we’re empowering installers to provide their clients with an affordable lending option, creating a more sustainable future for all."
Beyond the technology, the partnership will also include community outreach and education initiatives to drive awareness about sustainable energy solutions and their role in fighting the climate crisis.
*As an example, on a $80,000 loan a homeowner might pay $586.96 per month over 366 months at 8.00% APR. Loans are provided by Climate First Bank, Member FDIC, and are subject to credit check and approval.
Enerflo | www.enerflo.com
OneEthos | www.oneethos.com
Climate First Bank | www.climatefirstbank.com
Spruce Power Holding Corporation (NYSE: SPRU) (“Spruce” or the “Company”) announced the signing of a new Spruce Pro servicing partnership with commercial & industrial (“C&I”) and residential solar installer Hot Purple Energy (“Hot Purple”) to monetize Solar Renewable Energy Credits (“SREC”) in California.
This partnership is part of a broader Spruce initiative to leverage the Company’s platform and experience to capture the unrealized benefit of SREC credits for installers and C&I operators. As part of this agreement, Spruce will be responsible for initial and ongoing registration and monetization of Hot Purple’s SRECs with the Western Renewable Energy Generation Information System (“WREGIS”). The Company will also manage the monthly reporting of production and sale of SRECs for Hot Purple’s solar generation assets, generating cash flow for both Spruce and Hot Purple.
“Recent market changes in California have made registering SRECs financially rewarding for the first time, more closely aligning with mature SREC markets in certain states on the East Coast,” said Chris Hayes, Chief Executive Officer of Spruce. “We view scaling SREC registration in California as a low cost, low risk opportunity to generate high margin, cash flow for the Company.”
Hayes continued, “Spruce is among a very small number of companies that have completed the approval process to enable monetization of dormant SREC revenue within all three of California’s largest utility zones. This puts Spruce in a unique position to capitalize on a meaningful market opportunity. We are in active discussions for the rights to acquire SRECs from significant 3rd party installers as well as numerous mid-size and local companies that own residential and C&I solar sites in the state.”
Hayes concluded, “The monetization of SRECs plays to our strengths and has strong potential to deliver capital-light growth. Typical contracts will generate approximately 7 years of cash flow, allowing Spruce to grow our SREC trading book in California.”
Spruce Power | www.sprucepower.com
Alternative Energies Mar 31, 2025
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