Asia & Oceania

BlackRock has secured more than US$250 million for a finance vehicle that will invest in renewables and energy storage projects in countries across Asia, Latin America and Africa.

A 60MW floating solar project installed on a reservoir in Singapore has been connected to the grid and is now in commercial operation.

Japan is aiming to have 108GW of solar capacity by 2030, 1.7 times higher than the country’s previous target.

The proven ability to install large-scale floating PV plants on water bodies across Southeast Asia means financing should be readily available for new projects, it was suggested during a panel discussion today.

SmartestEnergy Australia has signed a PPA with Providence Asset Group, to deliver 500GWh of solar power into the national electricity market.

Vietnam remains one of the most attractive destinations of solar finance in South East Asia despite fears of market saturation, but access to capital in the region remains a key hurdle.

Construction risks may have escalated post-COVID and challenges around power purchase agreements (PPAs) remain, however banks in Asia remain committed to lending to solar projects.

Less rigidity during wind speeds and greater susceptibility to cracks under load pressures have been found within oversized solar modules during a new study.

United Arab Emirates developer Masdar has won a bid to develop a 200MW solar farm in Armenia with an investment of US$174 million.

Module manufacturer Q CELLS has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with electronics giant Samsung to develop a ‘zero energy homes’ strategy for global markets.