Markets

The solar industry had its best first quarter in history as supply chain challenges fade, according to U.S. Solar Market Insight Q2 2023 report.

Also on the rise: Solar power crosses the political aisle–$75 million for agrivoltaics research. Orsted to recycle all the solar modules in its U.S. portfolio. And more.

The energy giant signed an agreement with Solarcycle to recycle its crystalline silicon modules at end of life from its U.S. solar assets.

A study by the Cleantech Group highlights the rise to $1.8 billion in investment in the technology. The U.S. Department of Energy envisions this growing to as much as $9 billion by 2030.

Oregon’s solar market grew from under 100 MW of installed capacity per year to a respectable 1.4 GW, with more than 176 MW deployed in 2022, ranking 21st in the U.S. for solar generation.

If passed, Ohio would become the 24th U.S. state with a statewide community solar program accessible to residents of all walks of life, including low- and moderate-income communities.

In a political landscape with ever-increasing divisions, solar has repeatedly crossed the aisle. This time, a new bill aims to fund agrivoltaics research and development over five years to help determine how to best integrate solar energy generation with U.S.-style farming operations.

Partial loan forgiveness will be granted for selected large-scale renewable energy projects, plus any associated storage, that will serve a mostly rural population. Loan forgiveness amounts will range up to 20%, 40% or 60%, based on the project’s location.

Job moves in solar, storage, cleantech, utilities and energy transition finance.

Also on the rise: Shoals files patent complaint for solar connectors and wire harnesses. Construction complete on largest solar plant in Texas. And more.