SMM Weekly Review And Forecast For Co3O4)

Maine has become the second US state to legalize plug-in solar systems with the signing of LD 1730. The law permits residents to use UL 3700-certified systems up to 420 W via standard outlets, while units up to 1,200 W require a licensed electrician. Although these systems are ineligible for net energy billing, they can reduce household electricity costs by nearly 20%, saving users approximately $388 per year. Maine's decision reflects a rising national interest in accessible solar, as 34 other states are currently pursuing similar legislation.

Botswana's President Duma Boko has announced an agreement with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to develop a 500 MW solar and battery storage project. According to reports, Oman's NAQAA Sustainable Energy LLC, a subsidiary of the state-owned renewable energy company O-Green, has been selected to design, finance, construct, and operate the facility. Located in the town of Maun within Botswana's northwestern region, the project has a minimum operational life of 25 years and is set for a groundbreaking ceremony on April 16. With only 181.5 MW of operational solar capacity currently recorded, this development represents a crucial step for Botswana to achieve its target of increasing the renewable energy share in its national mix from 8% today to 50% by 2030.

The Dominican Republic and its Unified Council of Distribution Companies (CUED) have unsealed financial bids for a major public tender aimed at integrating up to 600 MW of new renewable generation. A standout feature of this procurement is the strict mandate that all participating utility-scale solar and wind projects, ranging from 20 MW to 300 MW, must incorporate four-hour battery energy storage systems (BESS) to guarantee firm capacity and grid stability. Officials reviewed 20 proposals from qualified developers. Awarded projects are required to become operational within 24 months of signing long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs). These PPAs will be settled in US dollars to attract foreign investment, supporting the nation's broader strategy to hit a 30% re-energy share by 2030.