PODCAST: California’s heatwaves and energy storage, and polysilicon’s pricing woes

August 24, 2020
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
California's record-breaking heatwave has caused wildfires and prompted numerous warnings over energy demand. Image: Office of the Governor for California.

Liam Stoker and Andy Colthorpe return for the August 2020 episode of the Solar Media podcast, reflecting on the biggest news stories from the global solar and energy storage ecosystems.

Up for discussion this month are California's ongoing heatwave and its impact on energy demand and storage, why looming volatility in the cost of polysilicon should be on everyone's radar, and what we should be taking from the increasing costs of managing grids worldwide. 

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The podcast can be streamed below:

Alternatively, you can subscribe and listen to the podcast on the Solar Media Editor's Channel, which is now on all popular audio channels, including;

Read Next

Premium
December 5, 2025
In November, the Colorado PUC ordered utility Xcel Energy to provide higher-quality information, and introduce flexible tariffs.
December 3, 2025
Buyers should prepare for increases in the price of vital solar module components, such as polysilicon, wafers and cells, but “remain cautious” of accepting new contractual terms from Chinese suppliers until formal market policies are agreed.
November 27, 2025
Transelectrica has published new rules for the Romanian grid, setting out time frames for auctions involving new energy generation projects.
November 27, 2025
A group of California legislators has called on the state Public Utilities Commission to hold two utilities accountable for delays in connecting solar PV and energy storage capacity to the grid.
November 26, 2025
Chinese manufacturers account for nine of the world’s top ten polysilicon producers, led by Tongwei, GCL Technology and Daqo New Energy.
November 24, 2025
The Moroccan government has announced plans to build a 30,000MT “green polysilicon” production facility, in partnership with Moroccan renewable energy firm GPM Holding.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Webinars
December 17, 2025
2pm GMT / 3pm CET
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA