Grid-forming inverters enter prime time with DOE funding
As fossil generators are phased out, grid-forming inverters will need to be phased in so that the grid can be restarted after any blackout.
DOE grants aim to drive down inverter costs, advance PV fire prevention tech
Several of the projects also aim for lower costs for PV module materials or PV racking, as well as for lower defect rates on module assembly lines.
NREL projects solar generation and costs for 10 U.S. zones
The national laboratory developed the baseline products to develop and document transparent, normalized technology cost and performance assumptions.
Wärtsilä joins a growing field of OEMs testing hydrogen as a fuel for electric power generation
The engine manufacturer is the latest to test technology that can combust hydrogen blended with natural gas. The goal of reaching 100% hydrogen for electricity production will require more work.
Federal clean energy standard ‘one of the best ways’ to reach decarbonization goals, report says
A meta-analysis of seven studies that model clean energy policy packages highlights the “profound benefits and feasibility” of achieving 80% clean electricity by 2030.
Renewables up to 90% by 2050 would cost less than current generation mix: NREL study
Even 100% renewables could be reached with existing technology, the study said. Stanford University’s Mark Jacobson commented that system costs would be even lower with additional measures.
Renewable energy group challenges Mississippi Power plan that sidelines solar
The group called on regulators to reject the plan and asked why solar — at a near-term cost of $20 per MWh — was not selected over an existing fossil generator at $51.70 per MWh.
California explores real-time retail pricing to enable more renewables
Widespread demand flexibility is seen as vital for California to reach its renewables goal. Real-time electricity pricing is one tool being considered.
Clean energy advocates bring lawsuit to roll back FERC’s latest PURPA rules
New rules “effectively gut” the only federal policy requiring utilities to buy renewable energy, the lawsuit says, arguing that FERC’s rulemaking exceeded its authority and conflicts with Congress’s goals.
Role of distributed solar at issue in California’s net metering update
Industry groups focus on solar-plus-storage, or preserving the distributed solar industry, while a state agency aims to compensate rooftop solar at avoided costs and add a grid service charge.
