Today’s renewable energy news includes announcements on Colbun, Transgrid, PowerCell’s contract for hydrogen bulk carriers, among others.
Colbun Breaks Ground on 228-MW Battery at Atacama Solar Farm, Chile
Chilean utility Colbun has started construction of a 228-MW battery energy storage system (BESS) at its Atacama solar farm, enhancing the integration of renewable energy in northern Chile. The project will store solar generation, providing grid flexibility, frequency regulation, and reliable power supply, supporting Chile’s energy transition goals. The investment aligns with Colbun’s strategy to expand low-carbon capacity and leverage advanced storage technology for operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. The BESS deployment represents innovation in combining utility-scale solar with large-scale storage, enabling stable electricity delivery even during periods of low solar output. Benefits include improved grid reliability, reduced curtailment, and strengthened energy security for industrial and residential customers in the region.
Transgrid Plans 1-GW Grid-Forming Battery Tender in NSW
Australian transmission operator Transgrid is preparing a 1-GW tender for grid-forming battery energy storage systems (BESS) in New South Wales. The project aims to strengthen grid stability and support integration of large-scale renewable energy, particularly solar and wind. Grid-forming batteries provide synthetic inertia and voltage support, critical for maintaining reliable electricity supply amid growing renewable penetration. This move aligns with Transgrid’s strategic investment in modern, flexible infrastructure to enhance system resilience and enable the country’s clean energy transition. The tender encourages innovation and adoption of advanced storage technologies. Benefits include improved energy security, reduced dependence on fossil-fuel peaking plants, and enhanced capacity to meet NSW’s 2030 renewable energy targets and long-term decarbonisation goals.
PowerCell Wins SEK 40 Million Contract for World’s First Hydrogen Bulk Carriers
PowerCell Group has secured a SEK 40 million contract to supply 14 Marine System 225 fuel cell units for two hydrogen-powered bulk carriers being developed by GMI Rederi AS. The ships, each 85 meters long with a 4,000-ton deadweight capacity, will become the world’s first hydrogen-powered bulk carriers when launched in 2027. The order includes more than 3 MW of clean power capacity and engineering services, with deliveries scheduled for 2026–2027.
Each vessel will be equipped with seven Marine System 225 units, enabling full zero-emission operations by replacing fossil fuels with renewable hydrogen. The project is supported by Norway’s Enova fund and the NOx Fund, under the Green Shipping Programme. eCap Marine, a German green propulsion integrator, will handle engineering, integration, and certification. The deal further expands the Marine System 225’s role in maritime applications, underscoring its flexibility and competitiveness for sustainable shipping.
Faheema P