New Power Generation

The US Energy Information Administration expects solar power to surpass coal in Texas electricity generation in 2026. The projection highlights the rapid buildout of solar capacity in the state, which already leads the nation in wind power, while coal generation continues its long-term decline as utilities shift toward cheaper renewable sources.

Talk about Sony's PlayStation 6 is growing, with early reports suggesting the next generation may launch with few true exclusive games. Discussion is also focusing on the console's expected hardware, including whether Sony has secured exclusivity on AMD's next-generation RDNA 5 chips, which could also power handheld devices and a possible Steam Deck successor. Commenters are questioning whether the new generation will offer enough of a leap to justify an upgrade.

A study titled 'The benefits of concentrating solar hybrid systems: A unified benchmarking framework' has been published in the journal Applied Energy. The work, highlighted by the SolarPACES research network, offers a standardised way to compare hybrid concentrating solar power systems against other generation options. Researchers say such frameworks help quantify when combining solar thermal with other technologies delivers real cost and performance advantages.

The Green party has voted to drop its longstanding opposition to nuclear power, marking a significant shift in energy policy. The change, described by supporters as an evolution rather than a commitment, accepts that nuclear generation will remain part of the electricity mix while the country transitions to a system based primarily on renewables. Members remain divided, with the party not obliged to back new nuclear build.

Rooftop solar power is being put forward as a way to ease the energy crisis while creating employment. The argument, reported by New Age Bangladesh, is that expanding small-scale solar installations on buildings can ease pressure on strained power supplies and generate work in installation and maintenance, though details of policy support and scale remain unclear.

Duke Energy Florida has completed a 74.9 MW solar project in the United States, adding new renewable generating capacity to its Florida fleet. The completion marks another step in the utility's ongoing build-out of solar power across the state.

Axios asks who will bear the cost of the massive electricity demand generated by the rapid buildout of artificial intelligence data centers. The question is drawing attention as AI companies pour billions into computing infrastructure, straining power grids and raising concerns that utilities and consumers, rather than tech firms, will foot the bill through higher energy prices and new generation capacity.

OnePlus has revealed details of its upcoming Buds Pro 4 wireless earbuds, including specifications, new AI-powered features, and an expected price ahead of launch. Reports highlight the buds' upgraded sound and smart capabilities, with tech outlets and gadget watchers sharing the news and speculating about how the earbuds will be priced against rivals.