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Utility-Scale Solar Developments: Global Updates and Trends

Utility-Scale

Utility-Scale Solar – pv magazine China

Panama Installs 143.4 MW of Solar Power in 2024
In 2024, Panama has added 143.4 MW of solar power, bringing its total installed photovoltaic capacity to 695.55 MW by the end of the year.

Thailand Launches Bidding for 205 MW Floating Solar-Hydro Hybrid Project
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has initiated a bidding process for the construction of a 205 MW floating solar-hydro hybrid project at the Bhumibol Dam, which is the largest arch dam in Southeast Asia and currently has 779 MW of hydroelectric capacity.

European Photovoltaic Industry Association Forecasts Morocco’s Solar Capacity to Reach Nearly 3 GW by 2028
According to a recent report from SolarPower Europe, Morocco’s solar capacity is expected to reach 2.97 GW by 2028 under moderate scenarios, with the potential to rise to 4.35 GW in high growth scenarios.

Pakistan’s Net Metering Solar Capacity Surpasses 4 GW
As of this month, Pakistan’s net metering solar capacity has exceeded 4 GW in 2024, marking significant growth in its solar market before changes to the program are set to take place later this month.

Scatec Signs Power Purchase Agreement for Large Solar + Storage Project in Egypt
Norway’s Scatec has signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Egypt Aluminium for the construction of a 1.1 GW solar power plant along with a 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage system. This agreement is regarded as Egypt’s first utility-scale PPA with an industrial buyer.

Spain’s Renewable Energy Share Reaches 54.1% in February
In February, renewable energy sources accounted for 54.1% of Spain’s total electricity consumption. The primary sources of electricity generation were nuclear energy (22.1%), followed by hydropower (20.2%), wind energy (17.3%), photovoltaics (14%), and combined cycle generation (13.8%). Additionally, 237 GW of power was directed towards storage facilities, and 1214 GWh was planned for export to neighboring countries.

Impact of Wind Load on Floating Solar PV Systems
Researchers studied the aerodynamic performance of a single floating PV unit consisting of 16 panels and an array composed of 15 such units. They found that the distribution of drag coefficients and wind pressure impacts the PV system differently depending on the wind angle. Furthermore, material optimization revealed opportunities for cost savings.

Orsted and PS Renewables Apply for Approval of 740 MW UK Solar + Storage Project
Project developers have applied for development consent to construct a new utility-scale project in England. This will be Orsted’s first solar project in the UK and one of four large solar power stations being developed by PS Renewables in the country.

Global Golf Courses Occupy More Land Than Utility-Scale Solar and Wind Farms
Researchers have noted that in the 10 countries with the most golf courses, the land used for these courses could accommodate up to 842 GW of utility-scale solar or 659 GW of wind projects.

Daytime Charging of Electric Vehicles Further Increases PV Adoption
The capacity of photovoltaic generation continues to grow rapidly, with 2024 marking another record year for solar PV deployment. Despite recent obstacles in some countries regarding the adoption of electric vehicles, their usage increased by 25% last year. Assuming each new electric vehicle requires 10 kWh of energy daily, the 17 million new electric vehicles sold in 2024 will necessitate an additional 50-70 GW of solar power generation globally.

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