India aims to integrate 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, necessitating greater flexibility from thermal power plants. A CEA committee, including NTPC and BHEL, studied coal-fired units and found that most equipment issues stemmed from factors other than low-load operation. Recommendations include advanced control upgrades and two-shift operations to enhance stability and reduce renewable energy curtailment.

The University of Sydney, with AU$7.25 million from ARENA, will develop perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, aiming for commercial use by 2027. Led by Professor Anita Ho-Baillie, the project focuses on enhancing efficiency, reliability, and durability, in partnership with Unison Solar Energy, addressing critical challenges in the solar industry.

Global electricity demand is projected to grow by 3.6% in 2026 and 3.8% in 2027, driven by industrial expansion, electric vehicle adoption, and increased appliance ownership. Renewables will surpass coal generation in 2026, and nuclear power is set to rise. Gas price volatility is impacting electricity markets, emphasizing the need for flexible power systems.

The global solar photovoltaic operations and maintenance market has risen significantly to 348 GWdc, driven by increased solar installations and the need for efficient asset management. Independent service providers dominate, holding a 40% market share. Regional trends vary, with the Americas experiencing high costs, while Asia Pacific leads in cost-competitiveness. Service strategies are evolving, emphasizing outsourcing for labor-intensive tasks and integrating energy storage.