This represents a 52% increase compared to the 23 GW achieved in 2022. 2022 saw a reduction in electricity demand, but nevertheless, despite lower demand for electricity, significant declines in wind and hydro generation resulted in reduced growth in renewable electrical energy production.
In 2023, the United States will reach a public sector-scale solar energy record of 24GW of capacity. Small-scale solar accounted for almost 11.6 GW of capacity. The total deployed capacity of 35.3 GW was 52% higher than the capacity reached in 2022.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA) plans to deploy at least 50 GW of solar energy in 2024.

Overall, low-emission electricity sources, excluding nuclear, saw a marginal increase from 962 TWh to 972 TWh of generation. The flat growth was due to hydroelectricity falling just over 6%, while wind fell almost 2%. Overall, renewables, which accounted for 1% growth and 2% decline in electricity demand, covered 23% of all generation, setting a new record. Adding nuclear power, 41.1% of all electricity generated came from zero-carbon sources, another all-time high.

One of the reasons for the strong deployment volume growth in 2023 was a recovery from the slowdown in 2022 due to the pandemic and supply chain constraints. The largest price increase occurred in solar modules, whose prices were heavily influenced by a significant increase in polysilicon costs. However, since then, polysilicon prices have fallen dramatically and module prices have remained near all-time lows in recent months.

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Ford Spain, the Valencian factory that the multinational Ford Motor Company owns in Almussafes, has been leading the INPROBAT project (Research into new production processes to reduce the cost of batteries and their environmental impact) for the last three years, subsidised through the Science and Innovation Missions schedule of the Centre for Technological Development and Innovation (CDTI).

This research project lasted 38 months and had a total budget of more than €5.8 million. CDTI support in the form of a grant accounted for 70% of the budget and has enabled progress to be made in the knowledge of battery manufacturing processes from the point of view of eco-design, for sustainable assembly and disassembly.

The project has been carried out in consortium with major companies in the sector such as Cegasa, Mondragon Assembly, Itera and TSE. These companies have relied on the most cutting-edge research organisations and technology centres in various technologies related to the project, located mainly in two technology centres, the Valencian Community and the Basque Country.

These organisations are: Technological Institute of Energy (ITE), Technological Institute of Metalworking, Furniture, Wood, Packaging and Related Industries (AIDIMME), Ikerlan, Lortek, Tekniker, Eurecat, Oviedo University Foundation and Inatec Foundation.

Power, Cost and Recyclability

Within the framework of this project, work has been carried out on the complete design of the manufacturing process of a prototype battery for electric vehicles (PHEV) that improves the energy densities, costs and recyclability of the designs currently used in vehicles such as the brand’s own Kuga PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid).

The proliferation of hybrid and electric vehicles in recent years, as well as market trends and car company strategies, suggests that the number of batteries from vehicles is going to be one of the major challenge for the society in the next decade.

The recyclability of components and improving the reusability of these components for a second life are emerging as the challenges that companies in the sector must urgently address as part of their social responsibility. All of this without losing sight of the business objectives of improving battery capacity (and therefore autonomy), and reducing the cost of manufacturing, which is ultimately reflected in the end customer.

Ford has taken on its role in this challenge from Valencia through the INPROBAT project, seeking strategies, technologies and materials that reduce the environmental impact of batteries and being a catalyst for SMEs such as TSE or ITERA to find new market opportunities and sustainable products, and large companies such as CEGASA and MONDRAGON ASSEMBLY to exponentially increase their experience in the manufacture of cells and modules for a sustainable automotive industry.

Results achieved

The objective has been achieved, exceeding initial expectations. To this end, efforts have been focused on different lines of research, such as:

  • Researching, designing and testing new materials and composite materials for the manufacture of the different parts that make up the battery pack.
  • Researching, designing and validating new optimised manufacturing processes for the different components and new disassembly processes, seeking simplicity, cost savings and maximising the quality of the final product.
  • Research on the methodological procedure for the characterisation, analysis and validation of the measurables associated with the project, to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data.
  • Research on recycling and reuse technologies in second life, once the automotive life cycle is over.

As a result of these lines of research, it has been possible to design a novel manufacturing process for a battery pack with a substantially lower weight than the reference one, and whose eco-design has allowed improving its power, reducing manufacturing costs and improving the recyclability of the product. It has also been possible to design and validate the safe disassembly process to facilitate its recyclability.

These improvement proposals must now be validated in an industrial manufacturing environment to assess their scalability and possible industrialisation.

In the context of the automotive sector in Spain, moving towards electrification, this project seeks to generate a solid and cutting-edge knowledge base on plug-in hybrid vehicle technologies.

Both the manufacturing plant and the companies and technology centers participating in the project have substantially improved their competencies and know-how to face the coming changes with guarantees and improve their leadership position in this regard.

Consortium Partners:

Collaborating Research Organizations and Technological Centers:

The news, published by Ford Spain, is taken from its website.

France is demonstrating its ability to enhance and increase photovoltaic energy production. Like the rest of the European Union countries, France has experienced significant growth. French solar market grew by around 30% in 2023, reaching 3.15 GW. PV systems for self-consumption accounted for around one-third of all new capacity additions.

France deployed around 921 MW of new PV systems in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to new figures released. For all of 2023, the country added 3,135 MW of new solar capacity. The results represent a 30% increase from 2022, when around 2.6 GW of solar was installed. In 2021, the nation added 2.8 GW of new PV capacity.

Currently, France is in fourth position in the ranking of PV producing countries within the European Union, behind Germany, Spain and Italy.

pv ranking EU

The results represent a 30% increase from 2022, when around 2.6 GW of solar was installed. In 2021, the nation added 2.8 GW of new PV capacity. The total  for 2023 could actually be higher than 3.15 GW. One-third of the capacity installed last year, or around 1,122 MW, came from PV systems under the national self-consumption scheme. It noted that self-consumption PV capacity almost doubled to reach 2,256 MW.

The results of this year must be recognized and supported,” said Daniel Bour, president of Enerplan, the French solar association. “2024 will, logically, amplify these results, following the new regulatory provisions, with an objective that we expect to be well above 4 GW.”

SOLAR MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT

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We are pleased to invite you to the EU Solar Buildings – Strategy day in Brussels on February

Mondragon Assembly, as a partner of the Seamless-PV project, invites you to a workshop and Networking EU Solar Buildings – Strategy day on February 21st at Scotland House (Brussels), where current developments in the field of building-integrated photovoltaics will be discussed, with the aim of defining a new set of priorities and solutions for solar buildings. SolarPower Europe Buildings & Prosumers Workstream and SEAMLESS-PV members, manufacturers, research centers and associations will work together with representatives of related industries and decision makers to exchange knowledge and define the strategic perspective for the BIPV market and industry.

What is the Seamless PV project?

The project started on the 1st of January 2023 and it’s expected to finish on the 31st of December 2026.

It’s the development of a set of advanced flexible automated PV manufacturing equipment based on high efficiency c-Si technologies.

The project also will help to address the industrialisation of new manufacturing processes that present key advantages (e.g., lightness, enhanced integrability) and cost reductions, enabling their seamless integration into final applications.

It will be a development of a set of IPV products demonstrating high-efficiency, cost-competitiveness and compliance with market requirements referencing standardisation frameworks.

Click here to find more information about the conference and also to register for the event. https://www.seamlesspv.eu/news/eu-solar-buildings-strategy-day-in-brussels/

Save the date!

MA-kushan-celebra-10-aniversario

Mondragon Assembly, a global leader in automation and manufacturing solutions, is delighted to celebrate the tenth anniversary of its Chinese subsidiary in Kunshan. The celebration culminated in an event for all the employees of the subsidiary, which took place in the same city.

Important milestone for Mondragon Assembly Kunshan, a benchmark in automation and manufacturing solutions

The occasion of the celebration centers on a decade of accomplishments and continued growth that the subsidiary has achieved in the Chinese market. Since its establishment in 2013, Mondragon Assembly Kunshan has played a key role in expanding the group’s global presence, highlighting its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.

The event in Kunshan witnessed significant moments, including acknowledgements and thanks to all the people who have been part of its journey. Moreover, people from the Mondragon Assembly Group spoke and showed off the great work over the past ten years.

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“This tenth anniversary is a tribute to the dedication and hard work of all our people. We’re grateful to all those who’ve been with us, our customers and partners, for the faith and support that’s also been crucial to our success in the region,” adds Guillermo Palacio, General Manager of Mondragon Assembly Kunshan.

The event concluded with a cake cutting ceremony and toast, marking the beginning of a new decade full of exciting achievements and opportunities for Mondragon Assembly and its subsidiary in China.

Mondragon Assembly Group, 6 subsidiaries and 3 commercial offices that strengthen its international presence

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In 1994, Mondragon Assembly began its internationalization strategy to expand its global presence and attract new projects. After 30 years, the company has six subsidiaries and three sales, engineering, and service offices around the world. This milestone reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to its customers and partners, to innovation, quality, and reliability of its solutions.

With a consolidated presence worldwide, Mondragon Assembly looks to the future ready to lead technologically advanced assembly process automation solutions that best suit the needs of each customer.

The increase of PV manufacturing applications as electric vehicles, energy storage and other forms of electrification are changing the future. However, domestic battery manufacturing is still in its nascent stages.

Just over a year ago, several PV Companies revealed plans to set up shop in the United States, and the announcements continue. Freyr unveiled a multi-phase project that is expected to bring battery manufacturing to Georgia.

Somo Brands decided to build battery cells for electric vehicles and grid-scale storage. For example, LG recently quadrupled its planned investment in two manufacturing plants in USA. While the announced buildout of domestic manufacturing is promising, many questions remain as to whether manufacturers can overcome the many hurdles on the way to meeting growing storage needs.

Note that US manufacturing capacity for lithium-ion battery applications is currently at 60 GWh, while demand for battery energy storage systems in the US market is likely to increase over sixfold from 18 GWh to 119 GWh by 2030.

This supply may be directed toward meeting demand of EV manufacturers, rather than that of non-vehicle application. Manufacturing facilities could increase domestic capacity to over 630 GWh over the next five years. However, most of the new factories have not publicly stated their intended markets, so there is still hope for steady supply.

Most batteries manufactured in the United States are lithium, and while the country has vast reserves of lithium, other materials are needed such as phosphorous and graphite. These materials are sourced primarily from outside the United States, so domestic manufacturers are competing on a global scale, often finding high prices and short supply.

As with the rest of the renewable energy buildout, securing a strong, skilled workforce is a challenge. Roles critical to energy storage supply chains include mining, chemical and electrical engineers, technicians, and more. Growing the workforce long term requires committed collaboration among manufacturers, government agencies, training facilities, and other stakeholders.

Building a domestic renewable energy supply chain includes support for energy storage development at all levels, so that this will require investment, partnerships with experienced manufacturers, and collaboration with allies.

Among the changing renewable energy landscape, the rise of photovoltaic manufacturing applications stands as a beacon of transformation. With electric vehicles, energy storage and electrification initiatives driving unprecedented demand, the role of PV manufacturing emerges as pivotal in shaping the future energy paradigm. This synergy between PV and storage applications announces a new era of innovation and collaboration in renewable energy, and underlines the need for strategic investments and partnerships to strengthen the country’s position in the global PV market.

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Mondragon Assembly Group, leading automation solutions provider, has donated €8,000 to two non-governmental organizations following a charity sporting challenge that mobilized its workforce.

For the second consecutive year, Mondragon Assembly Group has carried out a charity sporting challenge that has involved everyone in the Group. The challenge was to cover 30,000 km across different sporting disciplines within 10 weeks. In other words, to complete a distance equivalent to going round the world. If successful, Mondragon Assembly Group would donate €8,000 to two NGOs: one chosen by the subsidiary with the most kilometers per person and the other by the runner-up. So, with the goal set, they got down to work.

The challenge ended at the end of 2023 and lasted 10 weeks. During this time, participants could practice different sports disciplines, such as running, swimming, hiking, cycling, etc. and then they had to publish their data on an online platform, where they could see their progress and that of the other participants. In total, 191 people from the different Mondragon Assembly Group plants have taken part in the project – demonstrating their sporting spirit and solidarity – and have managed to complete the 30,000 km challenge.

In total, 191 people from the different Mondragon Assembly Group plants have taken part in the project – demonstrating their sporting spirit and solidarity – and have managed to complete the 30,000 km challenge.

Sport, well-being and contribution to society

This innovative initiative has also provided an excellent opportunity for the people of the Mondragon Assembly Group to unite around a common goal: to promote the well-being of its staff and, at the same time, make a contribution to a social cause. It is also an example of how sport can be a tool for personal and professional development and collective well-being.

Mondragon Assembly Orange, champion of the solidarity sports challenge

The French subsidiary, located in the town of Orange, was the winner of the challenge and the prize, 5,000 euros, was donated to the NGO ESAT le Royal, created in 1982 and whose aim is to enable adults with disabilities to gain access to professional life and to promote their autonomy and social integration.

The head office, located in Aretxabaleta (Gipuzkoa), has won second place, and has been awarded a prize of 3,000 €, which will go entirely to Esku Hutsik, a non-profit association created by mothers and fathers whose aim is to support families who have experienced or are experiencing bereavement due to the gestational, perinatal or neonatal death of a child.

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In short, this achievement is an example of the importance of teamwork and cooperation, two fundamental values of Mondragon Assembly. It is also a way to promote sport as a beneficial activity for physical and mental health, and to support NGOs that carry out essential social work. Mila esker to all the people who have made this wonderful initiative possible!

In line with the dynamic European solar landscape, Systovi, a leading French solar solutions company, recently acquired a last-generation membrane laminator, one of the largest in Europe, through a collaboration with Mondragon Assembly. This strategic move puts Systovi in an excellent position to integrate into the changing solar PV market.

Systovi: Pioneering Solar Solutions

Established in 2008, Systovi has consistently demonstrated commitment to solar innovation. The company specializes in high-quality photovoltaic solar products, heating systems, and ventilation solutions. This dedication to sustainability is further emphasized by the recent acquisition of an advanced laminator.

Alignment with European Solar Dynamics: The Last-Generation Membrane Laminator

The acquisition of the last-generation membrane laminator positions Systovi to meet the growing demands of the European solar market by streamlining production processes. This move aligns with Europe’s heightened focus on renewable energy and environmental sustainability, driving the demand for solar PV systems.

Mr. Igor Herrarte, sales manager at Mondragon Assembly adds: “Systovi’s strategic investment in the last-generation membrane laminator reinforces their commitment to sustainable solar energy solutions, aligning with European solar dynamics. This advanced technology positions Systovi as a key player in the European solar PV market, contributing to a cleaner and greener energy future”.

Mondragon Assembly: Engineering Excellence

Mondragon Assembly, a renowned global leader in automation and assembly solutions based in Spain, has been a pivotal force since its inception in 1977. Their collaboration with Systovi exemplifies a dedication to driving innovation and sustainability in the solar sector.

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    Mondragon Assembly and Reden Solar become pioneers with the development of a PV module manufacturing line for the agrivoltaic sector.

    Mondragon Assembly, a global automation and assembly solutions provider, has partnered with French solar industry leader Reden Solar to establish an innovative turnkey PV production line. This line will manufacture cutting-edge photovoltaic modules, boasting an impressive capacity of 400 MWp per year, scheduled to commence operations in Q1 2024.

    Turnkey line for special applications: Pioneering the agrivoltaics sector

    The collaboration between Mondragon Assembly and Reden Solar represents a significant milestone in agrivoltaics, where solar panels are integrated into agricultural landscapes. This sustainable approach optimizes land use, promoting the coexistence of solar energy production and agriculture. The project sets a precedent for harmonizing renewable energy generation with other essential sectors, emphasizing the multifaceted benefits of solar integration.

    Igor Herrarte, Area Sales Manager at Mondragon Assembly, underlines that “Mondragon Assembly’s partnership with Reden Solar to establish a state-of-the-art turnkey production line for photovoltaic modules is a pivotal development in the solar industry. The utilization of cutting-edge technology not only enhances Reden Solar’s competitiveness but also signifies Europe’s potential to drive solar advancements independently. Furthermore, this collaboration sets a notable precedent in agrivoltaics, showcasing the successful integration of solar technology with agriculture, promoting sustainability and innovative land use”.

    A truly European solar manufacturing line

    This joint project stands as a testament to the feasibility of genuinely European solar projects, showcasing that significant advancements can be achieved. The collaboration between Mondragon Assembly and Reden Solar underscores Europe’s potential to lead in solar technology and production, reducing dependency on external markets. Some items of equipment – especially stringers – are protected with patents owned by Mondragon Assembly.

    Close to Customer: Reden’s improved competitive position

    Mondragon Assembly’s collaboration with Reden Solar brings forth a cutting-edge production line that empowers Reden to be more competitive in the solar market. The integration of the latest technology allows for efficient and cost-effective production, enabling Reden Solar to enhance its market position and meet the rising demand for renewable energy.

    India demonstrates day by day that investments in the energy industry focus on the production of photovoltaic energy.

    India’s cumulative solar capacity reached 70.10 GW on June 30. In addition, 55.90 GW is now being installed.

    Among all states and union territories, Rajasthan leads with 17.8 GW of PV, followed by Gujarat with 10.1 GW and Karnataka with 9 GW. The states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka accounted for more than 50% of the total. Rajasthan has the highest solar energy potential of 142,310 MWp, followed by Jammu and Kashmir at 111,050 MWp.

    The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) has assessed India’s solar power generation potential at about 748 GW, assuming 3% of wasteland areas are covered by solar modules.

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