The good news: The US added 13.3 GW of solar in 2019, beating wind and gas in new capacity
You know the bad news. Here are five takeaways from the pre-COVID-19 U.S. solar industry. As for how the coronavirus will impact 2020 foreacasts, supply chains, component costs and project timelines, stay safe and stay tuned.
Bifacial PV modules are going mainstream but more field data is needed — and NREL is on the case
Getting the most out of a bifacial module requires a rethink at almost every level of system design and the industry is hungry for field data generated by such systems to better inform energy yield modeling and define the best approaches to maximizing yield at minimal cost. NREL’s three-year study into bifacial performance is beginning to yield results.
How the new generation of 500 watt panels will shape the solar industry
With three models of 500-watt solar panels officially unveiled, here’s a look at what that means for the future of project development and the solar industry at large.
Morning Brief: Longroad acquires 160 MW of First Solar projects, Glidepath Ventures sells 887.5 MW PV portfolio
Also in the brief: Pollinator-friendly solar projects in Virginia, register for the Energy Storage Grand Challenge and more.
Morning brief: $1.8 billion FPL solar plan gets state approval, Bernie Sanders on public ownership of power sector
Also in the morning brief: Solar irradiance and coal deliveries fall, Schletter goes with extra-strong pile-driven foundations
Freedom Solar: record profits and growth in Texas residential and commercial PV
“You’d never get payback for a battery unless your considerations are the zombie apocalypse or secession.”
Solar could be installed on coalfields in West Virginia if The Nature Conservancy succeeds
Some former surface coal mines in central Appalachia could be repurposed for solar development. The Nature Conservancy, a global land conservancy with $1 billion in annual revenues, is exploring the options.
Morning Brief: Kauai is 55% renewable, Dominion’s Virginia battery pilot approved
Also in the brief: Engie and JLL develop an energy program for State Fund, Oklahoma Gas and Electric is set to develop solar projects for the Chickasaw and Choctaw tribes, PG&E pays Topaz in January.
Pennsylvania solar advocates call for 6 GW by 2025
Pennsylvania’s solar trade association and a state renewables association both call for an update of the state’s solar and renewable goals.
Morning Brief: South Dakota’s largest project has a buyer, largest solar-plus-storage project in the Caribbean
Also in the brief: Safari Energy completes 60th commercial solar development, a 28 MW installation in New Jersey, Nautilus Solar acquires 3.5 MW Rhode Island project, solar aircraft designed to stay aloft for a year makes maiden flight.
