[SMM PV News] Nigeria and Senegal Accelerate Distributed Solar-Storage

GG Power has officially launched a battery energy storage plant in Hung Yen Province, marking a major step in Vietnam’s renewable energy push. The VNĐ300 billion facility has a capacity of 5GWh per year and features over 90% automation, supplying storage solutions for households, businesses, and the national grid. Developed with technology licensed from Goldwind, the plant aims to boost domestic tech capability and reduce reliance on imports. Officials say energy storage will be key as Vietnam targets up to 16GW of battery capacity in the coming years.

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.