Grid defection is profitable in some solar-rich U.S. locations
Researchers from Canada’s Western University assessed eighteen case studies across thirteen US states and found in areas an economic case for disconnecting from the electricity grid in some areas with high solar irradiation and high electricity rates. They say economic grid defection and utility death spirals are becoming salient issues in the U.S.
Optimal sites for solar projects are becoming harder to find
A survey conducted by Paces said average acreage and feeder capacity are shrinking in Illinois and New York.
Solar corporate funding down 23% so far this year
Total corporate funding in the solar industry reached $22.3 billion over the first nine months of 2024, representing a 23% year-on-year decrease. Mercom Capital Group says that while global uncertainties are affecting investor confidence, an increase in debt financing and resilience in newly-announced large-scale project funding remain bright spots for the sector.
In case you missed it: Five big solar stories in the news this week
pv magazine USA spotlights news of the past week including market trends, project updates, policy changes and more.
Large utilities plan to replace only half their fossil generation by 2035
The Sierra Club, an environmental group with a focus on reducing fossil fuel pollution, has graded 75 utilities on their resource plans through 2035. The average grade was a “D.”
Over 60% of surveyed Trump voters in Texas said they support solar tax credits
While some Texas lawmakers are pushing restrictions to solar development, 89% of surveyed Texans, including 83% of self-identified Trump voters, said they support the right for property owners to lease land for solar development.
Enabling distributed battery owners in every state to earn compensation
To help states launch programs to compensate owners of distributed batteries for providing energy at peak times, Solar United Neighbors has developed model legislative language. Under one approach, the owner of a 5 kW battery could earn $1,100 per year.
In case you missed it: Five big solar stories in the news this week
pv magazine USA spotlights news of the past week including market trends, project updates, policy changes and more.
Lithium-ion battery market to top $400 billion in 2035
While low prices are making life difficult for manufacturers, especially outside China, demand remains strong for stationary storage and electric vehicle (EV) devices, according to IDTechEx.
Average U.S. residential solar project breaks even at 7.5 years, said EnergySage
A report from marketplace operator EnergySage noted that average system costs are declining, and payback periods are improving. It highlighted a recent market share capture from Tesla in the inverter and energy storage market.
