Minnesota gets its first large-scale energy storage system (and you get free solar honey!)
Connexus Energy has broken ground on two solar+storage facilities – totaling 10 MW-AC solar and 15 MW / 30 MWh of energy storage. When connected by end of year, they’ll be the first large-scale energy storage systems put online in Minnesota, and the largest energy storage for a co-op in the United States.
11 GW of Texas solar would complement existing wind power
A study by UT-Austin finds that 11 GW of solar power in Texas would be the optimal capacity to complement the state’s existing wind generation in meeting electricity demand throughout the year. While the results reflect a carbon price scenario, they may still provide near-term guidance.
New York recommends “stopgap” measures to modify solar compensation
Two white papers issued by state regulators call for modifying the Value of Distributed Energy Resources calculation and increasing credits available for community solar projects. SEIA describes this as “forward progress”.
Solar power assets included in “AAA” commercial bond offering
CleanFund has closed on a $103 million bond for a portfolio holding building efficiency, seismic, water conservation improvements, as well as solar assets. A 5 MW project was noted as having received a 20-year term at 5.6%.
RI judge rejects solar project, rules solar to be “manufacturing”
A judge in Rhode Island has overturned a proposed solar farm in Portsmouth, ruling that modules “manufacture” the electricity they generate.
Construction begins at 53 MW-AC solar project at Navy Base in Tennessee
McCarthy Building Companies is constructing the project for Silicon Ranch, as one of the few large solar projects being built in the service area of TVA member utilities
Locals push solar power from the bottom up in Maine
In a state whose governor is staunchly anti-renewable energy, more than 25 municipal projects have been built and an island is pushing for energy independence by 2030.
Massachusetts passes energy bill without lifting net metering caps
The bill will increased the state’s renewable portfolio standard to 40% by 2030 and mandated additional energy storage, but the failure to lift net metering caps is expected to hobble mid-sized solar installations.
Construction starts on 450 MW-DC of Florida solar
Black and Veatch has started work on four massive solar plants for Florida Power and Light, which will bring the utility to over 1.2 GW-AC of installed solar some time next year.
Detroit Lions add solar to stadium and team facilities
The Lions become the 12th NFL franchise to add solar power to their facilities, furthering a growing trend that now includes 38% of the league.
