The latest renewable energy news includes announcements on CEZ, Jakson Solar, Renewable Energy and Battery Storage Auction Programme in Maryland, and others.
CEZ Signs 10-Year Solar Power Agreement to Supply 10 GWh Annually to Orlen Unipetrol
Czech energy company ČEZ has signed a 10-year solar electricity supply agreement with refinery operator Orlen Unipetrol. Announced October 27, the contract covers electricity generated by a new 9.65 MW photovoltaic facility near Litvínov in the Czech Republic. The solar installation is expected to generate approximately 10 GWh annually. Orlen Unipetrol will purchase the plant’s complete annual output under an off-site power purchase agreement supported by renewable electricity guarantees of origin. The project is being developed on industrial land previously used for waste storage. The companies also signed a broader cooperation agreement covering energy efficiency, additional photovoltaic projects and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The solar plant is approaching completion.
Maryland Launches $200 Million Renewable Energy and Battery Storage Auction Programme
The US state of Maryland has launched a $200 million clean-energy auction programme to accelerate solar, wind and battery storage development. Announced October 28, the Megawatts for Maryland initiative will provide financial support over approximately two years. Eligible projects include renewable electricity generation, battery storage, geothermal energy and selected other qualifying technologies. The programme aims to bring several hundred megawatts of additional electricity capacity into development while improving grid reliability and managing rising electricity costs. The state will use competitive procurement to select qualifying projects. Initial applications are due by November 30, 2026. The announced funding represents an available programme allocation rather than completed investments or commissioned generation capacity.
Jakson Solar Plans Up to ₹5,000 Crore Investment in 3 GW Solar Cell and Wafer Manufacturing Plants
Indian photovoltaic manufacturer Jakson Solar plans to invest up to ₹5,000 crore, approximately $525 million, in expanding domestic solar manufacturing. The investment plan was disclosed October 26. The company intends to establish a 3 GW solar cell manufacturing facility and a separate 3 GW ingot and wafer production plant. These investments would expand Jakson’s participation in upstream photovoltaic manufacturing, complementing its existing solar equipment activities. Domestic production of wafers and cells is becoming increasingly important as Indian manufacturers seek to reduce dependence on imported components. The proposed facilities would serve India’s growing utility-scale and distributed solar markets. Jakson has not disclosed confirmed construction schedules, factory locations or final financing arrangements.
