John Fitzgerald Weaver
Solar 101: Go solar, but go with your eyes open
Solar is uniquely virtuous among energy industries. But like all industries, consumers need to pay close attention to protect themselves.
NextEra earnings call points to unprecedented growth as industry tailwinds strengthen
The energy company has already met 75% of its low-end expectations for 2024, with 3+ years to go. Add in multiple potential industry tailwinds and a picture of unprecedented growth may be emerging.
Solar 101: How to calculate your solar system’s payback period
The simplest way to model the payback period is to divide the project’s costs by its expected annual production number. That’s a good start, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.
Tesla Powerwalls in California join the movement to create virtual power plants
Made up of distributed residential energy storage, these “plants” stabilize the grid and often end the need for new fossil generation. Tesla customers in California are the latest to join the movement.
Solar 101: How to pay for your rooftop solar investment
The out-of-pocket cost for a solar power system can be pretty high. We take a look at bank loans, on-the-spot finance, third-party ownership, and the benefits of using cold, hard cash.
California breaks 1 GW energy storage milestone (and looks to a ‘future’ 1.21 GW moment)
Energy storage is making its presence known on California’s electricity grid as projected shortfalls widen and deepen in the coming years. (Dr. Emmett Brown just might be impressed.)
Solar 101: Tips for keeping your rooftop solar system humming over the long term
Solar O&M comes down to mechanical rooftop connections, electrical solar panel connections, panel and connection temperatures, and inverters. Here are four possible plans of attack.
In high tide or low tide, solar plus storage by your side
With apologies to Bob Marley, we take a look at a solar-powered yacht that represents part of a larger push to decarbonize the shipping industry.
Solar 101: Accessorize your rooftop PV with batteries, panels, and EV chargers
Rooftop solar is just the start, as energy storage, smart electrical panels, and EV chargers enter the mainstream for solar owners. Here’s a guide to matching your solar array with some of the most popular accessories.
Solar 101: How to ‘Goldilocks’ your solar project to make it just the right size
Too big? Too small? Just right? Many factors need to be considered when deciding how large or small to make your rooftop solar array. Here are our pro tips.
