The rapid expansion of small-scale, distributed-generation solar
Small-scale PV systems drove the installation of more than 200 GW of solar capacity last year and could support more than 300 GW this year. That means a reset for utilities.
Michigan energy storage bills can serve as a model for the nation
Passing these bills would make the state among the most ambitious in the Midwest when it comes to growing storage capacity and encouraging business models that unlock the full potential of this technology, like the “virtual power plant” model.
10 best practices for building trust when developing solar projects
Strategies and best practices for building trust and overcoming opposition to solar project development, based on a Clean Power Hour podcast that delved into public acceptance challenges around solar projects.
Is your project underperformance caused by trackers?
In a perfect world, trackers in solar installations track the sun and perfectly minimize row to row shading; however, this is not always the case, as described in examples in which trackers deviate from the idealized tracking angles, go offline and stow down due to high wind speeds.
The missing ingredient in U.S. solar policy
To realize the IRA’s full potential, the solar industry needs well-defined and prompt guidance regarding the IRA’s implementation. Additionally, federal permitting reform is needed to address issues of congestion, interconnection and transmission.
Climate change and solar project flood risk
A well-balanced project design is one that maximizes use of the buildable space for a parcel of land while avoiding costly impacts from flood damage during the operational period.
Local solar offers the lowest-cost pathway to 100% clean energy
Deploying local solar technologies like rooftop and community solar in conjunction with battery storage unlocks a stronger, more flexible electric grid and also creates the lowest-cost pathway to a 100% clean energy future.
IRA equals consolidation, diversification
The funds flowing from the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) could prompt solar installers to diversify their offerings to homeowners. The IRA may also lead to consolidation among solar equipment manufacturers, writes Jessica Fishman, a clean energy marketing professional.
Hydrogen Power: Collaborator, not competitor
While hydrogen is poised for growth, it is not poised to knock off—or even compete with—solar and wind. Instead, if done correctly, hydrogen might help drive further adoption of wind and solar.
Strong policies expand the solar industry, creating more resilient future
The Paris Agreement of 2015 marked a milestone in the effort to combat climate change, and since then, governments including Canada and the United States have undergone a political and economic transformation focused on achieving net-zero goals, with renewable energy resources, particularly solar energy, playing a vital role.
