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The state has 506 GW of technical solar potential, according to an analysis by the Department of Energy Resources.

Researchers are proposing to use steel zip ties to attach solar modules to fences in animal farms as a low-cost racking solution for agrivoltaic applications. They found the proposed approach is technically and economically viable, provided careful wind load tests are conducted on the fences.

Up to 60 grants will be awarded to states and other eligible entities, ranging from $25 million to as much as $400 million.

This year, DOE recognized five organizations that exemplify the benefits that community solar can bring with $10,000 grand prizes, and recently launched a new round of the Sunny Awards.

Combined with the sale of its utility-scale renewables business, Duke Energy has divested $3.16 billion worth of utility and distributed generation solar assets this year as the utility shifts its business to focus on its core regulated holdings.

A Colorado State University study found that despite a 38% reduction in light availability, a C3 semi-arid grassland only reduced aboveground productivity and photosynthesis by 6%, pointing to the feasibility of grassland agrivoltaics.

Small-scale PV systems drove the installation of more than 200 GW of solar capacity last year and could support more than 300 GW this year. That means a reset for utilities.

Also on the rise: First Solar secures 1 GW module order. DOE advances $1 billion of $7 billion clean hydrogen strategy. And more.

Pew Research reports a steady Democratic support for solar energy while its acceptance among Republicans has fallen, particularly following the most recent presidential transition.

The demand-side initiative will help advance clean hydrogen hubs and support President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for building a clean energy economy with 100,000 jobs.