SOLAR PANELS
In 2022, North Carolina farmer Lance Tabor used a 40-acre solar site for sheep grazing; he brought 41 animals onto the property to expand his operation
Lance Tabor has pioneered an innovative sheep farming method by integrating his operation with solar panel installations in North Carolina. This dual-use approach not only enhances renewable energy production but also allows the sheep to effectively control vegetation, minimizing maintenance for the solar company. Ongoing research aims to optimize grazing methods within this unique intersection of agriculture and renewable energy, with rising interest in the promising field of agrivoltaics.
Planning to invest in gold and silver this Diwali? 7 experts decode the risks, outlook and allocation strategy
During the festive season of Diwali, many investors in India turn to gold and silver as traditional investment choices. With the backdrop of rising energy costs and inflation, the prices of these metals have seen fluctuations. Financial experts recommend that in the face of current market volatility, it might be wise for investors to reassess their strategies.
How China's clean-tech machine is reshaping the global climate fight
In 2024, China took the lead as the top investor in global clean technology, directing $132 billion to developing nations to aid carbon reduction efforts. This unprecedented infusion of resources could potentially reshape the landscape of international climate finance.
In a divided world, COP31 aims for agreement on electrification
COP31, kicking off November 9 in Antalya, Turkey, is all set to spotlight the global push for electrification. With a target to raise electricity's contribution to final energy demand to 35% by 2035, nations are keenly examining how electrification can effectively curb fossil fuel use.
In 2024, Cornell researchers grew radishes and radicchio between solar panels near Albany; shade reduced light and crop biomass, with radishes more affected
In a groundbreaking study, Cornell University researchers evaluated agrivoltaics in Albany, New York, focusing on crops like radishes and radicchio. Their findings revealed that solar panel shading led to considerable reductions in light and biomass. With agrivoltaic land usage in the U.S. having more than doubled since 2020, they advocate for strategic adjustments in planting schedules and crop choices to optimize synergy between agriculture and solar energy.
China cleantech stocks surge on hopes of stronger US clean energy support
Chinese cleantech stocks rallied on Thursday as Democrats' strong US midterm election performance fuelled hopes of stronger support for renewable energy. Investors expect potential policy shifts to benefit solar, battery and clean energy companies, although existing US tariffs and trade restrictions could limit Chinese exporters' access to the American market.
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Renewable energy key to India's energy security, German envoy Jasper Wieck says
Germany underscores the critical role of renewable energy in fortifying energy security for India. During recent discussions, German Ambassador Jasper Wieck highlighted the necessity for India to domestically produce solar panels and batteries. The Bharat Renewable Energy Summit is instrumental in establishing partnerships between Indian and German firms for local production.
India's solar manufacturing industry can generate 32 lakh jobs, attract $89 billion investment by 2047: ISMA
Titled Vision 2047: Solar Manufacturing from Polysilicon to Power Plant, the report presents a pathway for India to move beyond module assembly and set up manufacturing capabilities across the entire solar value chain -- from polysilicon and ingots to wafers, cells and modules, the statement said.
Tesla, Samsung oppose new US tariffs on Vietnam as probe deadline nears
Businesses are divided over whether Washington should propose new tariffs on Vietnamese goods this month, with Tesla and Samsung not in favour, while others have called for penalties, submissions to the US government show.
Tesla, Samsung oppose new US tariffs on Vietnam as probe deadline nears
A trade investigation into Vietnam's intellectual property practices is nearing a conclusion with a November 29 deadline. Various industries have conflicting views on whether new tariffs should be imposed on Vietnamese goods. Tesla and Samsung are against additional tariffs, while steel and wood sectors advocate for penalties. Vietnam has faced escalating exports to the US, surpassing its previous trade standings.
Silver loses more than half its value from record high: What went wrong and will it recover?
Silver has plunged more than 58% from its February record high of nearly $120 an ounce to around $50, as profit-booking, weaker industrial demand and shifting macroeconomic conditions weigh on prices. Geojit’s Hareesh V explains what drove the rally, why it unravelled and what could shape silver’s recovery.
China's secret reusable spaceship spotted in US intelligence report: What we know about this mysterious plane and its mission
A recently declassified US intelligence report has revealed a satellite image that confirms China's reusable spaceplane is currently orbiting. This significant development has sparked concerns about China's expanding capabilities in space and the potential military implications. The spacecraft is noted for its ability to interact with smaller objects during missions, amplifying worries about the competitive landscape of space exploration, as tensions between nations continue to rise.
Silver market’s big problem may be ending, but a new worry is coming for investors
Silver could move from a supply deficit to a surplus in 2027 as rising inventories, weak jewellery demand and slowing industrial consumption ease market tightness, Metals Focus said. Silver has underperformed gold amid expectations of higher interest rates and falling investor demand.
Scientists caught a tiny piece of space dust outside the ISS. What they found was unusual
A tiny particle caught outside the International Space Station and brought back to Earth in 2005 turned out to have an unusual minerals mix. The particle, named Hoshi, was studied in a 2011 paper that looked at its texture, its minerals and its oxygen isotopes. The work gave researchers another way to study primitive material from the early Solar System.
US releases rare photo of China's secretive Shenlong space plane: What does it reveal?
China's Shenlong space plane was recently photographed in orbit, showing its design and structure. The Defense Intelligence Agency included the photograph in a report assessing threats in space. This image revealed the spacecraft's delta-shaped wings and open payload bay doors while docked with another satellite. Shenlong's history includes missions in which it has released and interacted with objects in orbit.
ISRO to launch NVS-03 navigation satellite on October 30: Why the mission is crucial for NavIC
On October 30, ISRO will launch the NVS-03 navigation satellite using its GSLV-F18 rocket. This mission aims to enhance the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system, which currently struggles with aging satellites and insufficient atomic clocks. Successful deployment of NVS-03 is crucial for reviving reliable positioning services in India, with future launches, NVS-04 and NVS-05, planned to further solidify the system's dependability.
In 2019, Cornell began testing sheep grazing beneath New York solar panels; the project examined vegetation control, shade, and forage for the animals
Cornell University researchers have launched an innovative solar grazing initiative aimed at optimizing vegetation management in solar farms. Their experiment evaluates the potential of using sheep to graze beneath solar panels, fostering a dual benefit for energy production and farming. This sustainable method enhances biodiversity and diminishes reliance on traditional vegetation management practices, presenting a promising opportunity for harmonizing agriculture with renewable energy advancements.
India considers measures to boost local production of 100 critical inputs to cut import reliance, government official says
India is taking steps to encourage the local manufacturing of 100 key items that are currently imported. This initiative aims to decrease dependence on foreign suppliers, especially from China, to enhance domestic production capabilities. The government has identified these crucial items from a broader import list valued at $51 billion, which includes various sectors. By reducing reliance on imports, India hopes to strengthen its economy and mitigate supply chain risks.
In 2016, a North Carolina solar company began using 80 sheep alongside mechanical and chemical methods; the operation later grew to 590 sheep across 300 acres
North Carolina has employed sheep for vegetation management in solar farms to reduce mechanical maintenance. This strategy began as an experiment in 2016 and has expanded significantly since then. A study showed higher organic matter and soil health in grazed areas, though longer-term data is needed. Grazing costs can be competitive with mechanical methods over extended periods. The solar energy sector is growing, necessitating sustainable management solutions like sheep grazing.
Flexible workspace providers expand solar capacity
In a significant move towards sustainability, managed workspace providers like IndiQube and WeWork India are ramping up their investments in solar energy. With plans to evolve towards renewable power in the near future, WeWork India specifically aims to establish a large-scale solar power plant in Karnataka. Similarly, Table Space is also enhancing its renewable energy capabilities through strategic collaborations and investments.
In 2019, New York farmer Erica Frenay sent 59 sheep to graze at a solar farm for five months; she earned $2,325 while allowing her own pasture to recover
At Shelterbelt Farm in New York, Erica Frenay has taken a creative approach by leasing her sheep to graze beneath solar panels. This arrangement not only provides her with additional income but also helps manage her livestock while reducing overcrowding. Moreover, solar grazing curtails the need for fuel-powered mowers, showcasing a harmonious relationship between agriculture and renewable energy.
Microtek invests over Rs 400 cr to accelerate solar business growth
Microtek has announced a significant investment over Rs 400 crore for its solar business expansion in Jaipur. The new solar panel manufacturing plant is expected to become operational by November 2026 and will support the company's energy vision. The company is also highlighting its new Battery Energy Storage System to improve energy management for households.
Sri Lanka seeks faster green energy shift after oil shocks
Sri Lanka is facing significant challenges in its transition to renewable energy due to rising oil prices. The government plans to increase electricity generation from renewable sources to 70 percent by 2030. Communities have expressed concerns about the impact of wind turbines, leading to a reassessment of project locations. Additionally, changes in solar power pricing are necessary to maintain economic viability and fairness for consumers.
In 2019, Purdue began growing corn and soybeans around solar panels in Indiana; after 4 years, even the most shaded corn plots lost only 7.7 percent of their yield
Purdue University researchers have been examining how solar panels affect crop production since 2019, particularly focusing on corn and soybeans, two key crops in America. Their experiments show that significant crop yields are still possible despite shading from solar arrays. The study aims to refine solar panel designs that provide energy while also benefiting agriculture, paving the way for solar energy to support irrigation and farming operations.
In 2024, Rutgers planted soybeans between solar panels in New Jersey; the first harvest found no significant yield difference between two solar panel designs
Rutgers University recently performed a groundbreaking experiment on agrivoltaics to assess soybean yield productivity beneath solar panels. The results were promising, as both single and double-panel systems outperformed non-panel plots. However, given the preliminary data, ongoing research is crucial. The unique dry conditions experienced in 2024 required additional irrigation, influencing the experiment's results. Continued evaluation will uncover the long-term potential of integrating agriculture with solar energy.
New policy in works to boost agrivoltaics in India; enhance farmers' income via energy generation
India's government is formulating a policy to enhance the adoption of agrivoltaics across the country. This initiative aims to increase farmers' income by combining agricultural production with solar energy generation. States with significant agrivoltaic potential include Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, accounting for nearly half of India's cropland suitable for this practice.
China signals intent to push back against cleantech tariffs at COP31
China aims for the COP31 summit to discuss new challenges like tariffs on its clean technology. The country emphasizes the need for climate finance for developing nations as a priority at the conference. Officials have raised concerns over unilateralism and protectionism affecting global climate efforts. China also highlights its leadership in producing renewable energy technology such as solar panels and electric cars.
California’s endangered fox is surviving inside solar farms; how a small gap in the fence could help save them
The San Joaquin kit fox has adapted to residing alongside solar panels in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Researchers discovered that a purposely designed gap in the fencing permits safe access for the foxes while keeping larger predators at bay. Their studies indicate that the survival rates and home ranges of these foxes are comparable to those in nearby habitats, highlighting the viability of renewable energy coexistence with wildlife.
In 2024, a New York dairy farmer wanted solar income without losing his fields; the 6.5-megawatt project was designed around crops and cows
A pioneering dairy farmer in northern New York is merging the realms of agriculture and solar energy by partnering with a solar developer on a transformative agrivoltaics initiative. This groundbreaking design features ample spacing between solar panels, enhancing operational efficiency for farming tools. Expected to generate consistent revenue, the project aims to sustain existing agricultural work.
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