[SMM PV News] Botswana Partners with Oman for 500 MW Solar-plus-Storage Project

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.

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.