The Solar Product Registry Set to Boost Solar Deployment

T&H Farms, a family-owned farm, announced the successful sale of clean energy tax credits generated by a rooftop solar installation on its poultry houses. The transaction was facilitated by Concentro, which sourced the corporate tax credit buyer and provided comprehensive diligence and legal support throughout the deal.

The 590 kW solar array will generate significant energy savings for the North Carolina farm, owned by third-generation farmers. The project was developed by RED Renewables, who has strong experience in agricultural solar development.  In addition to the federal tax credits, the project received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), as well as financing from Rabo AgriFinance.

"We're proud to support agrivoltaics projects like T&H Farms that help working farms significantly reduce their energy bills through clean energy adoption," said Inigo Rengifo Melia, CEO of Concentro. "Tax credits combined with REAP grants present a powerful opportunity for farms across the U.S., many of which are well suited for co-location of solar without changing land use. With REAP grants covering up to 50% of project costs and tax credits accounting for another 30-40%, farms can access solar with minimal investment."

"This solar project helps us offset rising energy costs and provides us the flexibility to pursue additional initiatives that benefit the quality and efficiency of our operation," said Logan Hoffner, one of the owners of T&H Farms. "Good stewardship of the natural resources we are afforded directly benefits our business in the present, while also building towards a more sustainable operation for our future generations. We're grateful to our partners for their efforts in completing this project."

Concentro | www.concentro.io

Hydrogen will play a crucial role in driving the green transition with demand expected to surge in the coming decades. Around 60 governments have adopted hydrogen strategies, while the number of planned projects is already exceeding 1,500 globally compared to around 200 in 2021 – an increase of around 600%. To realize these projects, a total investment volume of US$680bn until 2030 may be needed, according to the Hydrogen Council and McKinsey, which will trigger a greatly increased demand for insurance to protect against risks as this investment is activated. Europe is leading the way by far with 617 planned projects and the highest total investment announced at $199bn.

While the potential of hydrogen is undoubtable, there are still challenges and headwinds to overcome. The potential size and scope of the hydrogen economy will depend on a range of factors including the evolving political, trade, and economic environment, as well as demand. Policymakers and regulators need to address costs for the development of the infrastructure, so that scaling up at a competitive level towards other energy sources is possible. Across all industries, stringent safety measures will be vital to manage hydrogen's inherent risks. This is where the insurance industry comes into play. According to Allianz Commercial's latest risk report Hydrogen: Opportunities, Uses and Risks in the Energy Transition, as hydrogen becomes integrated into the global economy, insurers can expect to see a significant increase in demand for coverage, with Allianz Commercial expecting the insurance market for hydrogen project coverage to grow to over US$3 billion in premiums by 2030. 

“Insurers have a key role to play in the development of the hydrogen economy, enabling investment and innovation, and providing risk management advice and guidance. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing within this industry are essential for developing best practices and building expertise. By addressing these multi-faceted challenges, the insurance sector can support the growth of the hydrogen economy and help facilitate the transition to net-zero emissions,” says Anthony Vassallo, Global Head of Natural Resources at Allianz Commercial.

Hydrogen offers great potential, but also challenges and risks

While it holds much promise and has been used in the chemical and refinery sectors for many decades, with risks such as fire, explosion and embrittlement being already well-known, the integration of hydrogen into other industries brings a range of challenges with currently planned mega projects requiring a scale-up of risk management. Energy production facilities will involve hydrogen storage and high-temperature combustion, which can lead to leaks and explosions. In transport, applications like hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will also face risks of hydrogen embrittlement and leaks. Port operators, bunkering facilities and fuel handlers will need to manage highly flammable and cryogenic hydrogen fuels, bringing accident and contamination risks. 

“Evolving technologies always pose challenges such as raising the risk of serial losses, where a common fault requires the replacement of equipment across a project or multiple projects. For example, a large hydrogen production facility could involve hundreds of electrolyzers, with the same design replicated at multiple plants. Serial defect claims have already been seen with wind turbines, leading to large losses for companies and insurers. Meanwhile, as the hydrogen industry scales up, supply chains may come under increasing pressure, with the risk of capacity constraints, and delays for replacement parts,” adds Harald Dimpflmaier, a Regional Head of Natural Resources at Allianz Commercial.

Risk management and mitigation are crucial for hydrogen projects

Given hydrogen’s unique properties and high combustibility, ensuring safety throughout the value chain is crucial. Analysis of hydrogen-related incidents shows that undetected leaks can easily lead to explosions. Equipment design, maintenance and training can help prevent the escape of flammable hydrogen gas, while the risks of ignition can also be reduced by locating hydrogen facilities in the open. Embrittlement risks can be managed using hydrogen-compatible materials and specifically designed resistant coatings.

In addition to preventing incidents, organizations can take steps to limit the extent of property damage, business interruption, and third-party liability. Buildings and facilities should be designed and constructed to withstand natural hazards, fire and explosion, and limit damage to adjacent property and equipment. Robust hydrogen leak detection and isolation systems are also paramount. Human error is also a common factor in large losses. Operational, safety, emergency procedures, and training should be frequently updated, including having robust and well-rehearsed plans in place for accidental releases.

“Given the wide reach of the hydrogen value chain and its potential uses, the implications for insurance could be far-reaching, touching on multiple sectors and lines of business over the next decade. However, from an exposure and potential claims perspective, product lines such as Energy, Natural Resources and Liability are likely to see the biggest impact from hydrogen risks over the next five to 10 years, followed by Property and Marine,” explains Vassallo.

Allianz Commercial | https://commercial.allianz.com/  

Linde (Nasdaq: LIN) announced it has commissioned one of the world’s largest helium storage caverns, further strengthening long-term reliability in this critical global market.

The storage facility, located in Beaumont, Texas, has a capacity of more than three billion cubic feet. As one of only three helium salt caverns in the world, it has the capability to store and extract helium helping to balance natural supply and demand cycles.

The cavern is the latest of Linde’s investments to further enhance its existing global helium infrastructure, as demand for the gas continues to grow. Beyond the storage cavern, Linde maintains proprietary technology related to the storage and production of helium. The company also has a diverse, global network of sources, production facilities and assets to supply customers across the world.

Helium plays a vital role in numerous applications, including the production of advanced semiconductor devices and serving as a critical material for nearly all space vehicle launches, as well as life-saving medical imaging equipment.

“Helium’s unique properties make it indispensable for our customers in vital industries, including aerospace, electronics, healthcare and manufacturing,” said Anshul Sarda, Managing Director Global Helium and Rare Gases, Linde. "With this investment, Linde is strengthening its global supply network to ensure our customers have reliable access to helium around the world."

Linde | linde.com

Nextracker (Nasdaq: NXT), a leading solar technology platform provider, announced the launch of a new AI and robotics business initiative, anchored by the appointment of its first chief AI and robotics officer and a series of strategic technology acquisitions. Over the past four quarters, the company has invested over $40 million to acquire three AI and robotics technologies. These acquisitions strengthen Nextracker’s end-to-end digital platform and enhance solar power plant deployment, quality, reliability, and long-term return on investment (ROI) for asset owners.

Nextracker has appointed Dr. Francesco Borrelli as chief AI and robotics officer, a newly created executive role focused on advancing the company’s global AI and robotics strategy. A pioneer in predictive control systems, Dr. Borrelli brings decades of experience developing and commercializing autonomous technologies across robotics, automotive, and industrial sectors. In his new role, he will lead the integration of AI, machine learning, and advanced robotics into Nextracker’s products and solutions to support global scalability and long-term innovation.

“With millions of sensors and control nodes already deployed over approximately 100 GW of operating systems in 40 countries, Nextracker has a unique opportunity to harness AI and robotics at scale,” said Dan Shugar, founder and CEO of Nextracker. “Dr. Borelli brings the vision and expertise to lead this evolution, allowing us to deliver deeper insights, timely and incisive actions, and greater customer ROI across our global technology platform.”

“Scaling solar to meet global energy demand requires a new level of autonomy in how we build and operate power plants,” said Dr. Borrelli. “I’m excited to join Nextracker in this role and help lead the integration of AI and robotics—turning field data into real-time action that drives solar plant performance, reduces risk, and accelerates deployment.”

As a key component of its digital and robotics technology platform, Nextracker acquired OnSight Technology, a pioneer in autonomous robotic inspection and fire detection systems for solar power plants. OnSight’s AI-driven tools enable predictive maintenance by identifying and forecasting common mechanical and electrical failures—helping asset owners reduce operational risk, improve uptime, and manage site health proactively. OnSight’s team of robotics engineers, field operations specialists, and product developers have joined Nextracker, and OnSight products are now commercially available in the U.S. with a global rollout planned for next year.

“Joining Nextracker is an exciting new chapter for OnSight Technology,” said Derek Chase, CEO of OnSight. “From day one, our mission has been to bring advanced robotics and intelligence into the solar field. Together with Nextracker, we can deliver smarter diagnostics at scale to improve response time, reduce risk, and strengthen ROI.”

Nextracker also announced two previously undisclosed complementary acquisitions:

• SenseHawk IP (August 2024): IP that enables the creation of high-resolution 3D as-built maps of solar project sites using AI-enabled drone-captured imagery. The maps support precise geolocation and digital model alignment to enhance site commissioning and integration with optimization software such as TrueCapture®.

• Amir Robotics (March 2025): Developer of a lightweight, water-free robotic cleaning technology designed for daily operation at large-scale solar sites. This innovative solution will be integrated into Nextracker’s existing data infrastructure to reduce soil-related yield loss and is currently being tested at several commercial sites.

“Integrating robotics and AI into Nextracker’s technology platform is a smart move,” said Sheldon Kimber, CEO of Intersect Power. “We were early adopters of OnSight’s robotic inspection technology and believe that Nextracker has the expertise and global footprint to scale these types of products and services to multi-gigawatt deployment levels.”

Nextracker | https://www.nextracker.com/

The U.S. energy storage industry is at a crossroads of economic pressure, regulatory reform and rising energy demand. From tariffs and trade dynamics to the reshaping of material strategies and regulatory compliance, the trends shaping this year reflect a broader industry movement toward resilience, transparency and innovation. Stryten Energy offers a deeper look at what’s driving momentum for the industry’s supply chains in 2025:

1. Tariffs and other trade challenges accelerate the race to reshore

Tariffs dominate the supply chain conversation. Recent trade actions have increased the cost of critical, imported materials and components, including those linked to lithium battery production. These increases are not limited to direct imports − they move through domestic suppliers who rely on foreign-sourced raw materials. This is pushing manufacturers to re-evaluate procurement strategies.

China’s bans and limits on exporting certain critical minerals are also causing disruption. In some cases, the nation is the sole supplier of certain materials.

The impact of these trade challenges will likely stay for years, so many companies are exploring onshoring and nearshoring options. Building a lithium cell plant, though, can often be a $300-$500 million investment, which is a significant hurdle for most companies. Large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and automakers circumvent the cost by partnering with large battery producers, some of which already have battery manufacturing capabilities onshore. 

The cost barrier for onshoring and nearshoring remains a significant issue for the hundreds of small- or mid-sized battery providers in the U.S. To better afford domestic manufacturing investments, many companies may begin consolidating through partnerships, joint ventures, or mergers and acquisitions − a trend that stands to strengthen the entire supply chain over the long term.

The industry was already shifting from importing complete battery packs to assembling modules domestically, with ambitions to eventually localize cell manufacturing and even raw material sourcing. While this transition is both expensive and complex, the goal is to build a resilient domestic supply chain. Though this transformation will take years, many players across the energy storage industry are stepping up to lead the shift.

2. Resilience comes through diversifying the energy storage mix

Energy resilience refers to the ability to recover from and withstand power disruptions. The U.S. electrical grid faces several challenges to reliably deliver a steady source of power to homes and businesses. The integration of more renewable energy sources intensifies pressure on U.S. grid operators to modernize their aging infrastructure. Brownouts and blackouts caused by extreme weather events, like heatwaves, winter storms and floods, are also becoming more frequent and increasing pressure on the grid.

These challenges underscore the urgent need for smarter integration of energy storage systems that can help stabilize the grids, provide backup power and support renewable integration. While lithium has been a leading energy storage material for years, its heavily concentrated global supply chain with China projected to control almost 70% of total capacity by 2030, has raised concerns about strategic reliability. Tariffs are also likely to raise the price of lithium batteries significantly, and a domestic supply chain is years away from being mature.

Therefore, expect to see manufacturers diversifying their battery energy storage system (BESS) technologies this year to provide an ample supply of different, reliable energy storage solutions. Diversification is a key defense against supply shocks and trade bottlenecks. Two alternatives to lithium for BESS systems are  vanadium flow batteries (VFB) and lead BESS batteries.

VFBs, ideal for long-duration essential power applications, can support the deployment of clean energy from renewable sources like solar and wind. Energy storage manufacturers are fielding inquiries from data centers about the technology. A domestic supply chain is already being built to provide a reliable supply of this technology.

Advanced lead BESS is also a key technology, especially when domestically sourced materials are a priority. This technology is designed to safeguard against power outages when conventional sources fail. It can also function as a critical grid support tool, providing rapid response capabilities to mitigate fluctuations, stabilize voltage and enhance overall grid resilience. Lead BESS already has a well-established domestic supply chain and a complete circular economy, making it a sustainable and reliable energy storage option.

By diversifying battery chemistry supply this year, manufacturers can help ensure the grid can withstand whatever comes next.

3. Future-proofing around new rules

We expect regulatory pressure to evolve in 2025. Governments are introducing policies to increase transparency, sustainability and security across many supply chains, including energy storage sourcing. Manufacturers must prepare for a future where traceability is not optional, but foundational to market access and success.

In the U.S., new Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) restrictions are now in place for manufacturers that supply the Department of Defense. Additionally, the clean energy tax credits available to domestic manufacturers in the recent passing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act include FEOC provisions. To qualify for the tax credits, companies must ensure full supply chain transparency and provide detailed documentation of their ownership structure to comply with the new FEOC requirements.

Beginning in 2027, the European Union (EU) will require a Digital Battery Passport for electronic vehicles (EVs), along with industrial and light mobility batteries under Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. This regulation mandates a digital record, which will be accessible through a mechanism like a QR code, that documents a battery’s origin, composition, performance and recycling history throughout its lifecycle. Although U.S.-based companies are not directly subject to EU law, those serving European customers will be expected to comply, putting pressure on global manufacturers to adopt new tracking capabilities.

Additionally, the Critical Mineral Transparency and Reporting in Advanced Clean Energy (TRACE) Act, known to many as H.R. 8187, is a proposed U.S. bill that aims to increase accountability in the sourcing and use of critical minerals. If enacted, the legislation would require digital tracking identifiers for battery components and minerals throughout their lifecycle. This move signals a shift toward deep supply chain traceability as a baseline for market participation. 

These regulatory developments will require major investments in data infrastructure, supply chain visibility and internal coordination. Energy storage manufacturers should continue to closely watch as the EU and the U.S. work to clearly define the rules for each regulation.

Simultaneously, it’s important to remember that global and U.S. regulators are targeting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” because of their environmental persistence and health risks. PFAS, which are in everyday household products like carpets, cosmetics, pesticides and paint, have also been widely used in battery manufacturing and electronic components for their thermal stability and chemical resistance.

Regulatory restrictions are expanding, and as PFAS phase-outs progress, product design and material sourcing will need to evolve.

While the challenge is tough, it also unlocks opportunity. Companies that proactively phase out PFAS and innovate with safer alternatives will lead the pack. Compliance will become a differentiator.

A defining year for energy storage supply chains

For energy storage stakeholders, 2025 is not business as usual. It’s a pivotal moment. This year’s trends signal deep structural changes to how energy storage systems are sourced, built and sustained. To lead through this transition, companies should focus on three strategic moves:

• Embrace domestic sourcing. Structure supply chains under the assumption that domestic manufacturing will be the new norm.
• Invest in chemistry diversity. Integrate alternative storage technologies to ensure energy resilience and mitigate material dependencies, performance risk and pressure on the grid.
• Prioritize compliance and traceability. Equip operations to meet emerging regulations and turn transparency into a market advantage.

In today’s unpredictable environment, those who adapt fastest will lead the way. These companies will shape the future of the energy storage industry.

Stryten Energy | https://www.stryten.com/

Apex Clean Energy announced that four utility-scale wind and storage projects totaling over 625 MW have reached commercial operations across Illinois, Maine, and Texas—bringing Apex’s total operating and construction portfolio to over 3 GW. These facilities—each of which came online in the first half of 2025—underscore the company’s ability to deliver energy solutions across diverse markets and technologies. With a combined local economic impact of nearly $150 million and significant investments in conservation efforts for the regions surrounding these four projects through the Apex Conservation Grant Program, the operational facilities highlight clean power’s role in supporting local economic and ecological resilience.

“From Maine to Texas, these sites reflect the strength of the Apex team and our ability to execute at scale—delivering the infrastructure our country needs at the moment it’s needed most,” said Ken Young, CEO of Apex Clean Energy. “As we continue to expand our operating portfolio, we’re focused not only on supplying the grid with reliable, low-cost energy, but on maximizing the long-term value our projects create for the communities where we work.” 

More about the newly operational facilities:

• In Piatt County, Illinois, Prosperity Wind (300 MW) is Apex’s fifth wind farm in the Prairie State and will generate around $93 million in tax revenue for the surrounding area, including $58 million for neighboring school districts. The facility is also providing $200,000 to support rewilding and restoration initiatives in Rockford and along the Illinois River.
• In Washington County, Maine, Downeast Wind (126 MW) marks Apex’s first operational facility in the ISO New England market. In addition to creating close to $20 million in new revenue for the county and nearby town of Columbia, the project has already driven $156 million of direct, indirect, and induced economic activity statewide and has committed $126,000 to rebuild habitat for the federally endangered Atlantic salmon.
• In Hidalgo County, Texas, Great Kiskadee Storage (100 MW/200 MWh) is the first operational asset of SA Grid Solutions, a joint venture between Apex, SK Gas, and SK Eternix. The facility will enhance the reliability of the Texas grid and is expected to generate more than $23 million in tax revenue over its lifetime, in addition to contributing $100,000 to conserve 200 acres of wetland habitat.
• In Tom Green County, Texas, Angelo Storage (100 MW/200 MWh) is Apex’s third storage facility to reach operations and its latest wholly owned grid asset. The project supports ERCOT’s resilience by absorbing excess renewable generation and responding rapidly to demand and is projected to create more than $13.6 million in local tax revenue over its lifetime.

Apex Clean Energy | https://www.apexcleanenergy.com/

Cabot Corporation (NYSE: CBT) announced the launch of its new LITX 95F conductive carbon developed for use in lithium-ion batteries for energy storage systems (ESS). Engineered for ESS cells used in residential, commercial and industrial applications, this high-performance conductive additive delivers enhanced conductivity, long cycle life, and improved processability, which is essential for systems that demand durability and stability under frequent cycling.

The global ESS market is growing rapidly, driven by the rising demand for grid flexibility, the transition to renewable energy, and the need for reliable power across residential, commercial and industrial sectors. Meeting these evolving needs requires advanced lithium-ion batteries that offer superior cycle life, optimal power delivery and long-term reliability. ​As the market continues to scale, battery manufacturers need to deliver solutions that are both high-performing and cost-effective. Cabot’s LITX 95F solution addresses these challenges by delivering key performance and efficiency advantages that are vital for accelerating ESS adoption.

The LITX 95F grade is formulated to improve cycle life and increase energy density. It has demonstrated excellent capacity retention in pouch cell performance testing with thick electrode design, offering ideal flexibility for battery manufacturers to optimize formulations across a wide range of ESS designs. Its high structure morphology helps to enhance conductivity and stability during repeated charge-discharge cycles. It also enables thick cathode design, helping to reduce material costs without compromising battery performance.

“As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, the ESS market requires advanced materials that deliver both performance and efficiency,” said Jeff Zhu, executive vice president and president, Carbon & Silica Technologies, Battery Materials and Asia Pacific Region. “Our new LITX 95F product is a direct response to the needs of the market and our battery customers — leveraging our deep industry expertise with proven performance to help scale ESS applications faster and more efficiently. This launch reflects our commitment to enabling a more sustainable future by delivering innovative solutions for battery technologies that support the energy transition at a global scale.”

Cabot Corporation | cabotcorp.com/batteries