Energy Storage

Also on the rise: New home battery can provide backup power as well as smart time of use charging/discharging. Connecticut to allow distributed resources to compete with distribution grid upgrades. And more.

Canadian startup Capsolar claims its flexible solar modules can be adapted to any type of low-speed electric vehicle with no extra modification and custom work. The panels have an efficiency of 21.3% and rely on 24%-efficient solar cells provided by US manufacturer SunPower.

Connecticut would join five other states in enabling distributed storage, solar and other non-wires alternatives to compete with traditional distribution system capacity upgrades, under a program being finalized by Connecticut regulators.

Also on the rise: GAF Energy to open solar tile manufacturing facility in Texas. States that enable distributed storage will make room for more rooftop solar. And more.

US scientists have developed a new electrolyte design for sodium-ion batteries to improve their long cycling performance. The low-solvation electrolyte was designed for high-voltage sodium-ion batteries, which retained 90% of their capacity after 300 cycles.

The new program tackles barriers to solar adoption for low-income customers through a net metering rate adder and a one-time $3,500 upfront cash rebate.

In half the states, interconnection procedures for distributed energy resources do not yet mention energy storage. To help states remove that hurdle, and several others, the Interstate Renewable Energy Council is providing guidance on a detailed toolkit.

Also on the rise: BLM approves 500 MW Oberon Solar Project on 2,700 acres in California desert. SOLV Energy, SEI partner to empower women in solar. And more.

The controversial Oberon Solar Project is the third solar installation approved under the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan.

Hard Rock Chapter House in Navajo Nation is now powered by clean, resilient and affordable energy.