Virginia becomes second U.S. state to advance plug-in solar legislation to the governor’s desk
The Virginia General Assembly has passed companion bills HB 395 and SB 250, creating a streamlined pathway for so-called “balcony solar” devices up to 1,200 W, but significant questions remain around how the law will be implemented.
A winter survival checklist for residential solar and storage
Otovo provides tips for solar customers to avoid getting caught with a dead battery or snow-covered panels when the next winter storm hits the grid.
Maryland residential solar market stifled by permitting and interconnection delays, report finds
A mix of industry representatives and advocacy groups say permitting delays, inconsistent rules between code offices and fees and utility interconnection friction in Maryland undermine the state’s clean energy and affordability goals.
California study finds electrification can put downward pressure on electric rates
Wide adoption of electric vehicles that can displace fossil fuel combustion with renewable power can also lower rates by about 3 cents per kWh, if the needed distribution grid upgrades are built efficiently and with cost constraints, a study found.
Tesla recalls over 10,000 Powerwall 2 battery systems
Tesla says its recall and replacement effort stems from a contained battery-cell defect that has raised safety concerns in both the United States and Australia.
Simplify Solar volunteer campaign launches across the U.S.
A volunteer-based initiative is collecting data on how towns handle residential solar permits with the hope of pushing local officials to cut red tape, reduce costs and speed clean energy installations.
Solar Energy Industries Association president to step down
SEIA president and chief executive officer Abigail Ross Hopper has announced her departure following a transformative nine-year run leading the U.S. solar and storage trade association.
How rooftop solar can complicate residential real estate transactions
Many homeowners assume leased or loaned solar systems will boost their home’s value, but outstanding loans often drag down equity instead.
GreenLancer expands residential solar repair and “orphaned” system services nationwide
The company said it can repair, maintain and activate “orphaned” systems installed by businesses that are no longer operating.
California Supreme Court orders solar net metering policy to be rereviewed by Appeals Court
In a victory for solar, the California Supreme Court ordered the Appeals court to reexamine the decision to defer to the Public Utilities Commission related to a controversial slash to rooftop solar incentives. The ratemaking decision, net energy metering 3.0, led to a crash in the state’s once-thriving rooftop solar market and put clean energy procurement goals in jeopardy.
