DOE funds $12 million in solar-generation modeling research
Despite some fears that the Department of Energy might stop funding solar research under the leadership of Secretary of Energy Rick Perry, the department continues to provide money for solar research.
Edison Electric Institute tries to rebrand demand charges
A joint report of the Energy and Policy Institute and the Center for Media and Democracy says utilities are trying to confuse consumers about what demand charges are and how they affect their electricity bills.
Clean Focus purchases Greenskies Renewable Energy
The acquisition will allow the California company to expand its commercial/industrial portfolio, while Greenskies receives an infusion of cash.
37 energy-storage advocates ask Congress for ITC clarification
Saying a lack of definitive rules is causing uncertainty in the market, the group urged the representatives to put energy storage on the same ITC schedule as the solar industry.
New Mexico co-op signs 4.5 cent/kWh PPA for community solar project
The 3 MW project is expected to come online in March.
IREC offers regulatory guide on grid modernization
Using new analytical tools and state-level case studies, the Interstate Renewable Energy Council hopes its publication will give regulators the tools they need to optimize the grid for distributed resource use.
Trump team argues strongly for tariffs
Reports say an unreleased memo circulating within the White House lays out arguments for the strongest of trade sanctions against foreign PV cell and module makers in what is likely a bad sign for U.S. solar markets.
Montana lawsuit hopes to halt cuts to the rates paid to IPPs
Montana’s small-scale solar community has filed a lawsuit in a state district court to stop the Montana Public Service Commission from slashing the rates, saying the decision was “arbitrary” and “unreasonable.”
Texas slaps El Paso solar customers with $30 minimum bill
A settlement between the solar industry and the El Paso Electric Company grandfathers current solar customers for 20 years from having to pay the minimum bill – but new solar customers will feel the bite.
70 U.S. mayors: We support and will enact long-term solar programs
While federal policies remain uncertain, mayors representing more than half of the states say they will power forward in the Solar Century to deploy solar energy with or without federal support.
