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India’S Solar Power Surges Past 123 Gw, Driving Renewable Energy Growth In 2025India has made remarkable progress in renewable energy, with solar power emerging as the leading contributor. By the end of August 2025, the country had installed 123,130.13 megawatts of solar photovoltaic capacity, which makes up more than 63.96 percent of its total renewable energy portfolio, excluding large hydro projects. This growth has been supported by falling solar panel prices, technological improvements, strong policy measures, and greater awareness about clean energy.
Between January and August 2025, India added 25,265.41 megawatts of new solar capacity. In August alone, installations touched 4,113.59 megawatts, recording a 3.46 percent increase compared to July. Wind energy also continued to expand, with 541.1 megawatts added during the same month. These numbers highlight India’s determination to scale up clean energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Government policies have played a critical role in this transformation. The Production-Linked Incentive scheme has encouraged domestic solar manufacturing, while the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers policy has ensured better quality standards. Reintroduced on April 1, 2024, this policy requires government projects to use only certified solar modules. From June 1, 2026, the same requirement will apply to solar PV cells, ensuring improved reliability and efficiency across projects.
As of August 2025, India’s renewable energy capacity, excluding large hydro, stood at 192.517 GW. Solar and wind together contributed nearly 175.81 GW, or over 91.32 percent of this total. Ground-mounted solar remains the largest segment, with 93.90 GW installed, while rooftop solar has grown to 20.85 GW, gaining popularity among households, businesses, and industries. Rooftop systems are being adopted widely for cutting electricity bills and offering more energy independence. In addition, solar-wind hybrid projects have reached 3.26 GW, improving land use and transmission efficiency.
Off-grid solar systems are also making an impact, particularly in rural areas where they replace diesel generators and provide reliable energy access. These include solar lanterns, solar water pumps for agriculture, and local mini-grids. Their combined capacity has crossed 5.12 GW, reducing costs for rural users and cutting pollution.
However, challenges persist. Acquiring suitable land for large solar parks is increasingly difficult, and integrating higher volumes of solar power into the grid requires better transmission infrastructure and modern balancing technologies. Without these, fluctuations in supply could pose risks to stability.
Global developments are also shaping India’s solar journey. Recently, higher U.S. import duties on solar modules redirected many suppliers to India, boosting module availability and lowering costs. This shift has supported faster capacity growth, providing additional momentum for India’s renewable energy targets.
With rapid installations, supportive policies, and rising investments, India is consolidating its position as one of the world’s leading renewable energy markets. The strong push in solar and wind shows that the country is moving steadily toward its clean energy goals, even as it works to resolve land and grid integration challenges.
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powerplant
16 September 20253 min readIndia’S Solar Power Surges Past 123 Gw, Driving Renewable Energy Growth In 2025
Solar Quarter
16 September 2025
powerplant
Divergent Raises $290 Million To Scale 3D Printing For Defence And AerospaceSubscribe to our free newsletter today to keep up to date with the latest manufacturing news.
The aerospace and defence sectors are facing a critical moment. Supply chain bottlenecks, rising geopolitical tensions, and the demand for faster, leaner manufacturing have converged to create pressure across the industry. Divergent Technologies has secured $290 million in new funding at a $2.3 billion valuation. The raise, backed by both equity and debt, is designed to accelerate the company’s push into advanced aerospace and defence production.
By leveraging digital manufacturing, Divergent aims to change how complex structures are designed and built. Its approach combines additive manufacturing, automated assembly, and software into a single adaptive system. This strategy not only targets efficiency but also strengthens the industrial base at a time when the US is seeking resilience in its defence supply chains.
The funding package consists of $250 million in equity and $40 million in debt. Rochefort Asset Management led the investment, underscoring the confidence capital markets have in Divergent’s potential to disrupt traditional manufacturing. For investors, the attraction lies in Divergent’s ability to deliver a repeatable, scalable process rather than one-off engineering projects.
Compared with other major defence-tech financings in the past three years, Divergent’s raise places it among the upper tier of venture-backed manufacturers. The investment reflects a wider trend in capital markets: interest in startups that blend advanced manufacturing technologies with mission-critical applications in defence and aerospace.
This momentum is not limited to early-stage interest. Across the sector, funding rounds are increasingly directed toward scaling production capacity, signaling investor recognition that cutting-edge manufacturing must move beyond the lab and into deployment. Divergent’s $290 million round exemplifies this shift.
At the center of Divergent’s strategy is the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS). The platform integrates digital design, additive manufacturing, and automated assembly into a single workflow. Unlike traditional factories that depend on tooling and fixed infrastructure, DAPS operates as a flexible production system. Engineers can redesign parts digitally, print them using high-end metal additive processes, and assemble them through robotic automation.
This approach appeals to defence and aerospace customers for several reasons. It allows for rapid prototyping and iterative design. It reduces the dependence on global supply chains by enabling local production. And it cuts down material waste, a persistent issue in aerospace manufacturing where parts are often machined from large billets of expensive alloys.
Divergent has already established partnerships with industry leaders including General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon. These collaborations highlight the practical application of DAPS to projects that demand both precision and scalability. By demonstrating results with such high-profile clients, Divergent is building credibility not only as a technology innovator but also as a strategic partner in mission-critical programs.
Supply chain disruption remains one of the most significant risks facing aerospace and defence manufacturers. From raw materials to specialized components, delays and shortages have slowed programs worldwide. The traditional reliance on fixed tooling and long production lead times compounds these challenges.
Additive manufacturing provides an alternative to these vulnerabilities. By shifting more of the production process into digital design and localized printing, companies can reduce exposure to logistics bottlenecks. For the defence industry, this flexibility is particularly important. In times of conflict or rapid deployment, the ability to print and assemble components on demand can provide a strategic advantage.
Divergent’s system adds another layer of benefit: scalability. Unlike one-off 3D printing applications often confined to prototyping, DAPS is designed to operate as a production-level platform. It enables aerospace and defence firms to move from small-batch experimentation to full-scale manufacturing within the same framework. This capability aligns directly with Pentagon priorities to strengthen America’s industrial base and reduce dependency on fragile global supply networks.
Divergent’s funding signals more than growth for a single company. It represents a larger shift in how the aerospace and defence sectors think about manufacturing. For decades, production has been dominated by large, inflexible facilities that required long lead times and heavy capital investments. Today, the industry is increasingly looking to digital, modular, and adaptive systems that can be scaled as needed.
For defence planners, the appeal extends beyond efficiency. In an era defined by strategic competition, particularly with near-peer rivals, the ability to innovate and produce quickly is seen as vital to national security. Divergent’s approach of combining software, hardware, and robotics into a single platform aligns with this priority.
The implications also extend to allied industries. Commercial aerospace, automotive, and energy infrastructure could benefit from production systems that enable lighter, stronger, and more adaptable designs. As Divergent grows, its influence may ripple outward into sectors beyond its current focus, potentially setting new standards for advanced manufacturing.
Divergent’s $290 million raise is more than a financial milestone. It underscores a shift in the manufacturing model for aerospace and defence, moving from rigid, tooling-heavy production lines to digital-first adaptive systems. By investing in capacity expansion and scaling DAPS, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of a reindustrialization wave that blends advanced software with additive manufacturing.
The long-term success of this approach will depend on execution. Scaling production while maintaining precision is not without challenges. However, if successful, Divergent could demonstrate a template for how future aerospace and defence platforms are built.
Sources:
Tech Funding News
Manufacturing Today
factory
16 September 20255 min readDivergent Raises $290 Million To Scale 3D Printing For Defence And Aerospace
Manufacturing Today
16 September 2025
factory
Commanders’ $3.8B D.C. Stadium Nears Key Council VoteThe Commanders’ planned return to the District of Columbia is up for another vote Wednesday, and this time, the proposed $3.8 billion project is expected to face far less drama.
The Council of the District of Columbia initially approved about $1.1 billion in public funding on Aug. 1 for a domed facility and mixed-use development on the grounds of RFK Stadium, the NFL team’s former home. Now, that measure is back for a second and final vote as a result of local rules requiring the multistage process to approve legislation.
D.C. council chair Phil Mendelson reiterated Tuesday that he believes he still has the necessary votes to complete the Commanders’ stadium funding. The first reading of the bill passed by a 9–3 vote, but only after considerable debate and significant modifications to the original proposal, and a similar sentiment is expected this time. In this second reading of the bill, a straight majority of “yes” votes among the 13-member council, amounting to seven votes, is required for passage.
Expected changes to the bill include establishing further clarity around specific milestone dates within the broader redevelopment of the RFK Stadium campus.
“We can focus on the negative, that the Commanders are supposedly ne’er-do-wells, or we can focus on the positive, the reality, which is that this is a very attractive development opportunity,” Mendelson said.
In addition to the forthcoming amendments, the second vote will include the return of Ward 8 council member Trayon White, who was previously expelled from the council following an indictment on bribery charges. White then won a special election to reclaim his seat and was sworn back into the legislative body.
The Commanders are set to contribute at least $2.7 billion toward the stadium and are responsible for all cost overruns. The team and District leaders are aiming for a 2030 opening for the new venue.
The team is also part of a fast-growing stadium development wave across the NFL. In addition to projects for the Bills and Titans that are well into active construction, teams such as the Bears, Broncos, and Browns are all actively pursuing new venues, and others, such as the Eagles, are considering ones as well.
Front Office Sports
stadium
16 September 20252 min readCommanders’ $3.8B D.C. Stadium Nears Key Council Vote
Front Office Sports
16 September 2025
stadium
Rystad Energy Says Kuwait’S Renewable Capacity To Reach Just 3.3 Gw By 2030, Falling Short Of 15% Electricity TargetKuwait is facing growing challenges from extreme heat, aging power infrastructure, and frequent unplanned outages, prompting major investments to improve the country’s electricity grid. At present, renewable energy makes up less than 1% of Kuwait’s electricity generation. The government has set a target to increase that share to 15% by 2030, with natural gas serving as a key transitional fuel.
However, analysis by Rystad Energy suggests this goal may not be achievable within the planned timeline. Their projections indicate that Kuwait’s renewable capacity is likely to reach only 3.3 gigawatts (GW) by 2030, representing about 7% of power generation. A more realistic milestone would be 15% by 2035, when renewable capacity is expected to exceed 11 GW and account for around 20% of Kuwait’s electricity mix.
Kuwait currently has 21 GW of installed power capacity, but only about 17 GW is reliably available during the hottest months. Aging plants and planned maintenance reduce capacity at the time when it is most needed. With summer temperatures reaching as high as 50 degrees Celsius in recent years, demand for electricity peaked at 17.7 GW in July. The strain on the grid forced scheduled power cuts to begin two months earlier than the previous year, while unexpected outages added further pressure, resulting in shortages of more than 1.5 GW during peak demand in May.
Natural gas is expected to play a central role in Kuwait’s energy transition. Rystad Energy forecasts that gas-fired power generation will grow by 17%, reaching 77 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030. To support this growth, gas production is projected to rise by 38%, while overall gas demand is expected to increase by 30% over the next five years. The increased demand will be met through a combination of expanded domestic production and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports.
To secure supply, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) has signed a 15-year LNG sale and purchase agreement with QatarEnergy, providing up to 3 million tonnes per year of LNG. Additionally, Kuwait plans to build five new large-scale gas-fired power plants, adding 18 GW of capacity. This will raise the country’s total gas power capacity from the current 14 GW to more than 32 GW by 2035.
Nishant Kumar, Analyst, Renewables & Power Research, Rystad Energy, stated, “Blackouts in Kuwait have underscored the strain on the country’s power system, making imports unavoidable if such outages persist. As Kuwait modernizes and turns to renewables to address these challenges, high-profile events like the 2025 Iberian outage have raised questions about the reliability of renewable energy.
Still, it would be myopic to dismiss the capabilities of renewables outright. Kuwait has plans to invest heavily in solar PV, for instance, benefiting from a natural advantage of more than 3,300 hours of sunlight each year. This abundant sunlight supports PV output of 4.6 to 4.9 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per kilowatt-peak per day, helping to meet peak afternoon demand when electricity use is highest.”
A major objective of this strategy is to reduce Kuwait’s reliance on oil for power generation, which currently accounts for 40% of its energy use. By replacing oil with gas in the electricity mix, Kuwait can free up more crude oil for export, which remains the cornerstone of its economy and government revenues. Shifting toward gas will help secure export earnings, stabilize public finances, and meet growing domestic energy needs.
Kuwait’s annual gas demand is currently between 24 and 25 billion cubic meters (Bcm), with the power sector being the largest consumer. Approximately 40% of this demand is currently met through LNG imports, while about 35% comes from associated gas production. This dependence on associated gas ties supply to OPEC+ crude production levels, making it vulnerable to output cuts.
To reduce this risk, Kuwait has invested in non-associated gas development, including both onshore and offshore exploration. Significant progress has been made, with non-associated gas now providing nearly 600 million cubic feet per day—about 25% of total demand. All of this supply currently comes from the onshore Jurassic project located in northern Kuwait, which has become a critical part of the country’s energy strategy.
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16 September 20254 min readRystad Energy Says Kuwait’S Renewable Capacity To Reach Just 3.3 Gw By 2030, Falling Short Of 15% Electricity Target
Solar Quarter
16 September 2025
powerplant
Energean Wins Us$4 Billion In Israeli Gas Contracts In H1 2025The move has bolstered the company’s contract pipeline to US$20 billion (£14.77 billion) over the next 20 years.
Energean, a gas producer, secured US$4 billion worth of new long-term Israeli gas offtake contracts in the first half of 2025 (H1 2025), ended 30 June.
This strategic move has significantly bolstered the company’s contract pipeline to US$20 billion over the next two decades.
Despite this positive development, Energean’s financial performance in the first half of the year has been affected by a series of operational challenges including a planned shutdown for essential works and a government-mandated suspension of production.
The company's operations across Egypt, Italy, Croatia, the UK and Greece, which collectively produced 44 000 boe/d in H1 2025, remain a focus for maximising value.
However, Energean reported an 11% decline in core profit for the six months leading up to 30 June, while its after-tax profit increased by nearly 24%.
Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortisation and exploration expense (EBITDAX) stood at US$505 million, with after-tax profit reaching US$110 million.
The temporary suspension of production in Israel in June and a delay in commissioning the second oil train have led Energean to revise its production forecast for the year.
The company now expects production to range between 145 000 boe/d and 155 000 boe/d, a decrease from the previously anticipated 155 000 boe/d to 165 000 boe/d.
In Egypt, Energean's CEO, Mathios Rigas, told Reuters there is an estimated further 3 trillion ft3 of gas beneath its existing platforms.
Offshore Israel, the company is considering drilling into untapped formations in deep Mesozoic rocks in Block 23, which Rigas believes could be a "new play opener for the whole East (Mediterranean)".
However, Energean is seeking a partner for this well and anticipates that drilling will have to wait for regional stability.
Rigas also mentioned that Energean expects to produce up to 2 billion m3 a year from its Katlan field off Israel, which is set to begin production in 2027.
This output is due to be transported via the proposed Nitzana pipeline from Israel to Egypt, which is yet to be constructed.
Read the article online at: https://www.oilfieldtechnology.com/drilling-and-production/15092025/energean-wins-us4-billion-in-israeli-gas-contracts-in-h1-2025/
The deal encompasses a comprehensive range of OCTG supplies including pipes and VAM premium connections.
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Oilfield Technology
oil & gas
15 September 20252 min readEnergean Wins Us$4 Billion In Israeli Gas Contracts In H1 2025
Oilfield Technology
15 September 2025
oil-gas
First Step Taken For Multi-Billion Dollar Metro Project In MeccaThe Royal Commission for the City of Mecca and the Holy Places (RCMC) has launched a long-planned initiative aimed at transforming the city's transportation infrastructure. Mecca metro network project The Commission has taken the first important step towards this mega project. The Commission has invited potential contractors to an early consultation meeting to share their interest and feedback on this massive project.
The RCMC announced that it is seeking to gauge market interest in the multi-billion-dollar metro network project and obtain detailed feedback on the proposed procurement approach from companies attending the event, to be held on September 21. This meeting will play a key role in the project's financial and operational planning.
Following the business announcement meeting on September 21, the RCMC will carefully consider questions and feedback from interested companies. The results of the early market participation will be shared with the public in early November. This process is a significant step toward providing a modern and sustainable solution to Mecca's transportation challenges.
Railly News
railway
15 September 20251 min readFirst Step Taken For Multi-Billion Dollar Metro Project In Mecca
Railly News
15 September 2025
railway
Port Of Tyne Unveils £150 Million Clean Energy RedevelopmentThe £150 million ($203 million) investment aims to support offshore wind, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing, with an independent WSP study estimating up to 12,000 new jobs and £5.6 billion ($7.6 billion) in economic impact.
The project will be presented at the Port Investment Panel during London International Shipping Week on 17 September.
It has been endorsed by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, who sees the development as a key part of the region’s clean energy and industrial growth strategy.
READ: Port of Tyne gains UK’s first electric foiling pilot boat
Located within an Industrial Strategy Zone, the site offers similar incentives to freeports, including Business Rates relief, enhanced capital allowances, and employer National Insurance relief.
The redevelopment includes 1 kilometre (1 km) of new and upgraded deep-water quay and a 230-acre development footprint.
Phase one—Howdon Quay—has been completed following a £6 million ($8 million) upgrade. It includes a 23,000 square foot warehouse and a dedicated berth, and is now operational.
READ: Port of Tyne names new Innovation Partnerships Manager
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “The Port of Tyne’s clean energy terminal and deep-water dock will support our efforts to make the North East a hub for the green energy revolution. The site has huge potential to generate thousands of jobs and strengthen our offshore and renewables industries.”
Matt Beeton, CEO, Port of Tyne, stated: “Accelerating offshore wind, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing is a national priority. With Industrial Strategy Zone status and deep-water access, the Tyne Clean Energy Park is uniquely placed to support this UK-wide initiative.
“Phase one at Howdon Quay is complete, with a new warehouse and berth ready for business. We’re working with local and national partners to unlock the region’s potential and attract global investment.”
In August, the Port of Tyne hosted key UK and European stakeholders to share progress on the Green North Sea Shipping Corridor, a major initiative to decarbonise maritime transport between the UK and the Netherlands.
Port Technology International
port & ship
15 September 20252 min readPort Of Tyne Unveils £150 Million Clean Energy Redevelopment
Port Technology International
15 September 2025
port-and-ship
Taraf, Masdar City Join Forces To Develop Residential Project In Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi - Taraf, the real estate division of Yas Holding, has partnered with Masdar City to develop a 1.40 million square meter residential community featuring more than 1,000 villas and townhouses.
The project will offer two- to six-bedroom homes set within neighborhood clusters designed to encourage social interaction and family-friendly living, according to a press release.
Residents will have access to green spaces, shaded walkways, cycling routes, clubs, parks, and modern infrastructure, with direct connections to Al Masar Park.
The community also introduces rare freehold ownership opportunities in Abu Dhabi.
Low Ping, Group CEO of Yas Holding, said: “This partnership with Masdar City reflects Taraf’s strategy of shaping communities that inspire modern living where design, sustainability, and innovation come together to enrich everyday life.”
Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, added: “Our partnership with Taraf combines their design-led approach with our proven sustainability framework to deliver a residential community that enhances Abu Dhabi’s lifestyle offering and sets a new global benchmark for modern low-carbon living.”
All Rights Reserved - Mubasher Info © 2005 - 2025 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Zawya
mixed-use
15 September 20251 min readTaraf, Masdar City Join Forces To Develop Residential Project In Abu Dhabi
Zawya
15 September 2025
mixed-use
Crc To Acquire Berry In $717 Million All-Stock Merger, Expanding California Oil AssetsCalifornia Resources Corporation (CRC) will acquire Berry Corporation in an all-stock transaction valued at about $717 million, including Berry’s net debt, the companies announced on Sept. 15.
Under the agreement, Berry shareholders will receive 0.0718 shares of CRC stock for each Berry share, representing a 15% premium based on Sept. 12 closing prices. Once completed, CRC shareholders will own roughly 94% of the combined company. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both boards and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.
CRC President and CEO Francisco Leon said the combination will strengthen the company’s California-focused portfolio. “The combination of CRC and Berry will create a stronger, more efficient California energy leader. This transaction is attractively valued and immediately accretive across key financial metrics, strengthening our ability to deliver sustainable value to shareholders,” Leon said.
Berry Chair Renée Hornbaker called the merger a timely opportunity: “The industrial logic of this merger will allow Berry shareholders to benefit from the creation of a larger and more sustainable business, with an improved capital structure and significant operational synergies.”
The combined company would have produced about 161,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in the second quarter of 2025, with 87% of reserves already developed. CRC said it expects to generate $80–90 million in annual synergies within a year of closing and maintain a leverage ratio below 1.0x.
The merger also gives CRC access to Berry’s Uinta Basin acreage in Utah, providing what the companies described as additional operational and financial optionality. CRC will assume Berry’s debt and may refinance it through existing cash and credit lines.
World Oil
oil & gas
15 September 20252 min readCrc To Acquire Berry In $717 Million All-Stock Merger, Expanding California Oil Assets
World Oil
15 September 2025
oil-gas
Multi-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway DepotA major milestone in the rollout of one of Britain’s newest train fleets has been reached following an £80 million investment into a key railway depot in Bletchley.
London Northwestern Railway (LNR) and Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, officially announced the completion of the redevelopment of Bletchley Traction Maintenance Depot (TMD) alongside local representatives and members of the rail industry at a special event on Friday 12 September.
The train operator carried out the works to enable the site to stable and maintain LNR’s new fleet of class 730/2 electric trains which entered service on routes to and from London Euston over the summer.
The fleet, which is made up of 36 five-carriage trains, brings an overall 20% uplift in capacity to the West Coast Main Line and will carry millions of passengers to and from the capital each year. They feature open gangways, charging points at every seat and intelligent air conditioning.
To run these modern trains, Bletchley Depot’s main shed has been extended with new modernised carriage servicing sidings, improved inspection facilities and new train lifting equipment. The overhead electrified lines have been replaced and a new overhead gantry now offers roof access to the full length of the train.
The improvements will benefit passengers in dozens of locations across the country, with the new fleet serving routes between Crewe and London and Northampton and London.
John Doughty, engineering director at London Northwestern Railway, said: “We are so pleased to celebrate the completion of these important and transformative upgrades. Having cutting edge equipment and more space in our sidings means our trains can be serviced and maintained more quickly, so we can offer a more reliable service for our passengers.”
Lord Peter Hendy, the Minister of State for Rail, said: “I’m delighted to see the transformation that has taken place at Bletchley depot, made possible by significant government support and a great collaborative effort between London Northwestern Railway and its delivery partners.
“The new trains entering service will provide a much better experience for passengers along the route, connecting millions of people to jobs, education, and leisure opportunities. I look forward to seeing their smooth introduction being completed and enjoying a journey myself in the coming months.”
Bletchley TMD also maintains and stables the Class 150 fleet which runs on the Marston Vale line from Bletchley to Bedford, as well as the trains which will serve the East West Rail route from Oxford to Milton Keynes.
The upgrades were primarily funded by rolling stock company, Porterbrook, with additional support from the Department for Transport, and were carried out by Taylor Woodrow.
They come as part of a major £1billion investment into new trains and infrastructure by LNR and its sister company West Midlands Railway. Separate upgrade work is underway at the company’s depot in Tyseley in Birmingham.
Stefan Rose, chief investment officer at Porterbrook, said: “Working in partnership with London Northwestern Railway and the Department for Transport, these impressive upgrades highlight the important role that private finance can play in maintaining and enhancing rail infrastructure to deliver a better service for passengers.”
For more information on LNR’s investment programme, visit www.lnr.uk/newtrains.
Rail Business Daily
railway
15 September 20253 min readMulti-Million-Pound Upgrades Completed At Key London Northwestern Railway Depot
Rail Business Daily
15 September 2025
railway
Das Solar Enters Back-Contact Business With 5 Gw Cell FactoryDAS Solar has taken a formal step toward industrializing BC solar cells after local authorities in Guizhou published an EIA public-participation notice for a 5 GW BC high-efficiency cell project.
The Weining County filing, dated Sept. 8, identifies the developer as Das Solar New Energy Technology (Weining) Co. and lists a 177,000-square-meter site planned for cell workshops, chemical stores, wastewater treatment, a 110 kV substation and associated support infrastructure.
The project remains at the EIA disclosure stage. The company and local government have not published a detailed construction timetable or final capital budget.
Das Solar signed a CNY 2 billion (280.7 million) agreement with the Weining authorities in April 2024 for a related n-type cell project. The company’s existing Weining manufacturing base also completed a 2.4 GW n-type tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) module line in January 2024 with a reported investment of CNY 310 million and an annual output value of about CNY 2.5 billion. If the earlier CNY 2 billion framework corresponds to the new 5 GW factory, that would imply a development cost of roughly CNY 400 million per GW – a notional figure that requires official confirmation.
Technically, the move reflects a deliberate shift from DAS Solar’s established TOPCon expertise toward a dual-track strategy. The company describes its BC approach as “DBC” – a hybrid that transfers TOPCon’s SiOx/Poly-Si passivated contact architecture to the rear of the cell and combines it with a full back-contact design. The intended result is a front surface free of metal busbars, higher current density and retention of TOPCon’s cost characteristics.
DAS Solar claimed third-party verification for recent performance gains: a DBC cell registered at 27.77% efficiency with an open-circuit voltage of 745.7 mV, certified by the China Photovoltaic Testing Center (CPVT). It said it has filed more than 60 patents related to BC technology and has led drafting of some 20 industry and group standards.
DAS Solar added that its “DBC 3.0 Plus” is compatible with TOPCon-5.0 process flows and ready for scale-up in 2025, with an initial market focus on distributed generation and BIPV. At the module level, the company showcased a “Diamond” DBC product at SNEC PV+ 18th (2025) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Conference and Exhibition, advertising a 670 W output and 24.3% module efficiency.
DAS Solar remains an active TOPCon player. Since its founding in 2018, it has advanced TOPCon through successive generations, reporting a 2024 mass-production average module efficiency of 26.7% and continued process upgrades into 2025. The company said it has built about 40 GW of battery and module capacity across several Chinese provinces and aims to lift component capacity toward 50 GW by the end of 2025.
According to market research firm PV InfoLink, DAS Solar was the world’s ninth-largest module supplier in 2024.
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PV Magazine
powerplant
15 September 20253 min readDas Solar Enters Back-Contact Business With 5 Gw Cell Factory
PV Magazine
15 September 2025
powerplant
Construction Begins On $130 Million Utas Stadium RedevelopmentWork is officially underway on the main construction phase of the $130 million redevelopment of UTAS Stadium in Launceston, marking a major milestone in Tasmania’s journey towards entering the AFL.
Jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, who are each contributing $65 million, the project aims to transform the historic York Park venue into a modern, elite-level stadium while continuing to serve the local community.
Tasmanian firm Fairbrother has been awarded the contract to deliver the extensive works, which will include the construction of a new Centre West Stand, a revamped Eastern Stand, and significant upgrades to amenities for players and fans.
Stadiums Tasmania CEO James Avery said the commencement of this stage signals the most significant progress yet in the redevelopment timeline, ensuring the project remains on track and within budget. He emphasised the importance of creating a venue that meets the needs of both professional sport and community use.
During the 2026 AFL season, the stadium’s capacity will temporarily drop to around 9,000 while work progresses. Once new seating areas are completed in 2027, that number is expected to increase to approximately 17,000.
Demolition of the existing Centre West Stand begins the week commencing 15th September 2025.
Despite the ongoing construction, the venue will continue hosting major events including Hawthorn’s AFL games, AFLW fixtures, and Tasmania Football Club VFL matches.
Fairbrother Chairman Craig Edmunds said his company was proud to play a leading role in such a landmark Tasmanian project. He highlighted the economic benefits for the region, saying the redevelopment would support local jobs and showcase Northern Tasmania’s construction capabilities.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our people, subcontractors, and suppliers to be part of something that is both professionally rewarding and significant for the state,” Edmunds said.
The project is scheduled for completion in October 2027, positioning UTAS Stadium as a key piece of infrastructure for the future of elite sport in Tasmania.
The Main Works package includes:
Austadiums
stadium
15 September 20252 min readConstruction Begins On $130 Million Utas Stadium Redevelopment
Austadiums
15 September 2025
stadium
Dedham-Westwood Water District Awarded More Than $4.9 Million From 3M Pfas SettlementThe Dedham-Westwood Water District will receive more than $4.9 million in settlement funds from 3M Company through a lawsuit filed in Feb 2023 against several manufacturers of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). The suit addressed the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that have contaminated groundwater supplies in the district’s service area.
The first disbursement of $984,124 will be received this month, with a further $2.24 million due by the end of 2025. The remaining balance will be provided in smaller annual payments over eight years, concluding in 2033.
PFAS have been used for decades in AFFF, industrial processes, and the manufacture of thousands of household and commercial products due to their heat-, stain- and water-resistant properties.
The district conducts monthly PFAS testing at both of its treatment plants. Results show current levels remain below the maximum contaminant threshold set by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, which is 20 parts per trillion on a quarterly basis.
“Design plans for PFAS treatment at the White Lodge Water Treatment Facility are shovel-ready, and construction will begin shortly,” said executive director Blake Lukis. “Although these funds will help with the costs associated with removing PFAS, they only cover a fraction of the overall remediation.”
Construction at White Lodge is expected to cost around $15.55 million. The district has secured a 20-year interest-free loan from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust, which, together with the settlement funds, will reduce the financial burden on ratepayers.
PFAS are entirely man-made chemicals that have impacted surface and groundwater across the US, leading to hundreds of lawsuits by water providers against manufacturers. These are being heard under a Multidistrict Litigation process supervised by a federal judge in South Carolina.
“We are honoured to have helped the Dedham-Westwood Water District assert its rights to ensure the quality and availability of water resources,” said Ken Sansone, senior partner at SL Environmental Law Group. “It is the corporations whose products contaminated the water that should shoulder the clean-up costs. By acting early and filing a lawsuit before the drinking water settlements were reached, the district secured a higher settlement payment. This increase, known as a litigation bump, rewards proactive action.”
The district is represented by SL Environmental Law Group, which focuses on water contamination litigation on behalf of public and private water providers. The firm has recovered more than $1.2 billion from corporate polluters for its clients.
Water waste water asia
water
13 September 20252 min readDedham-Westwood Water District Awarded More Than $4.9 Million From 3M Pfas Settlement
Water waste water asia
13 September 2025
water
Bhp Injects $1.4 Billion Investment Into Port HedlandBHP has given the green light to its $1.4 billion port debottlenecking project 2 (PDP2) at Port Hedland, marking a major investment aimed at enhancing long-term operational resilience.
The project will see the installation of a sixth car dumper (CD6) along with additional conveyors and supporting infrastructure.
“We have medium-term plans to maintain WAIO’s production of 305 million tonnes per year, and this upgrade of infrastructure and technology allows us to support it,” BHP Western Australian Iron Ore asset president Tim Day said.
“The project is a major step forward to boost our supply chain resilience, unlock capacity and drive productivity across our operations.
“The Pilbara is the engine room of the Australian economy, and this investment will ensure it keeps firing.”
Car dumpers at Port Hedland tip two 135-tonne rail cars at a time, enabling up to 16,000 tonnes of Pilbara iron ore to be unloaded per hour.
The ore is then moved via 5km of conveyor systems to stockpiles or directly to ships. BHP currently operates five car dumpers across its Nelson Point and Finucane Island operations.
Once operational, CD6 will significantly increase car dumper availability, with the port running with at least five car dumpers more than 90 per cent of the time, up from around 60 per cent today.
The project is designed to improve operational reliability, consistency and ore blending and screening capabilities.
Beyond productivity, PDP2 is expected to deliver local economic benefits. Over the three-year construction period, BHP will prioritise awarding contracts to Indigenous and Traditional Owner businesses as well as local Port Hedland suppliers.
Work on the project is scheduled to begin in December 2025, with first ore expected by the fourth quarter of 2027–28 financial year (FY28). PDP2 follows the successful completion of the port debottlenecking project 1 (PDP1), which unlocked enhanced car dumper and ship loader performance.
Last financial year, BHP’s Western Australia Iron Ore set a full-year record production of 290 million tonnes on a 100 per cent basis, alongside record shipments.
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Australian Mining
mining
12 September 20252 min readBhp Injects $1.4 Billion Investment Into Port Hedland
Australian Mining
12 September 2025
mining
Maharashtra Approves 25Km Elevated Road To Navi Mumbai AirportThe Maharashtra cabinet recently approved the construction of a 25-kilometre elevated road connecting Thane to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Alongside this project, the cabinet also cleared extensions to the Pune and Nagpur Metro lines, new stations in Pune, and plans for an international business hub in Nagpur. Several policies concerning energy and tribal development were also passed during the meeting.
The Thane–NMIA Elevated Road
The six-lane elevated road, stretching 25 kilometres, will connect Thane and Mira-Bhayander to the airport. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 6.43 billion by the City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Limited (CIDCO), the road will feature six interchanges and is expected to cut travel time from 90 minutes to 30 minutes, offering faster access and reducing congestion on existing routes.
The Atal Setu
The Atal Setu, also known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), is a key infrastructure project connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai by spanning approximately 22 kilometres across the Mumbai Harbour. The route starts from Sewri in South Mumbai and stretches eastward over the sea to Nhava in Navi Mumbai.
The sea bridge eases congestion on the Vashi and Airoli bridges and facilitates quicker access to major areas of Navi Mumbai, including NMIA, via connecting roads and highways. It plays a vital role in improving connectivity between Mumbai’s island city and the expanding satellite city.
As of January 2025, a concessional toll of Rs 250 is applicable for four-wheelers on the Atal Setu for both one-way and return journeys. A return toll of Rs 125 applies if the return trip is completed within 12 hours. Electric vehicles, including electric cars and buses, are exempt from toll charges on the Atal Setu for the next five years as part of Maharashtra’s sustainable transport initiative.
Thane–NMIA Elevated Road: Toll Rate
The newly approved elevated road is expected to ease access to NMIA, with a one-way toll of Rs 365, according to reports. The airport is projected to handle 2 million passengers annually in its initial phase and up to 9 million by 2038. Authorities believe that saving travel time and reducing congestion will benefit millions of commuters over the long term, despite the higher toll cost.
Beyond providing convenience to travellers, the elevated road is expected to support economic growth in the region. Enhanced airport connectivity is likely to attract businesses, boost real estate development, and generate new job opportunities.
Construction World
road-bridge
12 September 20253 min readMaharashtra Approves 25Km Elevated Road To Navi Mumbai Airport
Construction World
12 September 2025
road-bridge
Yorkshire Water Kicks Off £250 Million Amp8 Storm Overflow Improvement Plan For South YorkshireContract partners, Ward & Burke, will start work to create a new underground storm tank to hold excess wastewater and reduce storm overflows discharging into the river Dearne during periods of prologued and excessive rainfall.
The programme immediately follows a £180 million investment over the past two years, which has helped to reduce storm overflows discharging into watercourses by 12% in 2024, compared to 2023.
The upgrade is the first of a £95 million investment package to upgrade 28 Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO) across Barnsley - one of nearly five hundred separate schemes - to improve storage capacity across Yorkshire over the next five years.
Tom Broderick, senior project manager, Yorkshire Water, said:
“We made great strides in reducing the number of storm overflow incidences in the last year. But we know there is more to do, and we are working hard to make sure that we tackle storm overflows operating more often than we and our customers would like.
“This marks the first of 92 projects across South Yorkshire to bring down the number discharges over the next five years. It’s part of our largest ever environmental investment and we are really pleased to start this huge phase of work here in Darton, Barnsley.”
The new storage tank will hold up to a capacity of 190m3 of water - the equivalent of 1,266 bathtubs – holding the excess wastewater will reduce the number of overflows discharging into the river and help to improve water quality of the Dearne. Flows are sent for treatment once capacity in the network has returned to normal levels. The upgrade At Darton Church Street should be completed by May 2026.
Water Briefing
water
12 September 20252 min readYorkshire Water Kicks Off £250 Million Amp8 Storm Overflow Improvement Plan For South Yorkshire
Water Briefing
12 September 2025
water
