SolarWorld Americas secures $5 million loan
Creditors will allow SolarWorld Americas to borrow more than $5 million, which SolarWorld says should bring operations up to full capacity in the coming months. The company has now seen offers from five investors.
Vietnam files WTO complaint over US solar tariffs
Vietnamese authorities have submitted a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) to request formal consultations with Washington over its recently announced 30% tariff on crystalline silicon PV imports.
IRS rules energy storage upgrade to solar tax credit eligible
In a Private Letter Ruling published on Friday, the IRS said that a battery added to a solar pv system a full year after solar installation was completed is eligible for a the full 30% tax credit – as long as it is 100% powered by solar.
Virginia legislature passes sweeping energy bill
The bill rescinds a 2015 rate review freeze to defend consumers against potential Clean Power Plan costs, and calls for much larger and faster deployment of renewable energy.
Maine Senate fights back with bill to fix solar policies
A bill which would return an essential feature of the state’s net metering policy has passed the Maine Senate, but has a long road ahead of it.
Trump’s steel, aluminum tariffs to increase solar costs
The president has announced a 25% tariff on imported steel and 10% on aluminum. While the details remain unclear, this will inevitably raise prices for PV installations.
HECO seeks 300MW of renewable energy in new RFP
Utilities on three Hawaiian islands have put out a request for proposals to build wind and solar projects, with an option of energy storage. The goal is to maximize ITC value before it drops down in 2022.
Enphase seeks Section 201 exclusion for AC modules
The company has registered as a lobbyist with K Street’s most experienced WTO law firm – Sidley Austin LLP.
12 hours of energy storage enough for U.S. to run on 80% solar+wind
Scientists in California have modeled a solar-heavy/wind power electricity grid, without nationwide HVDC, that could reliably deliver 80% of U.S. electricity needs. 100% of needs would require 3 weeks of energy storage.
SEIA plays defense with new strategic vision
SEIA has publicly outlined its strategy, which focuses on defending existing policies, and offers goals for solar adoption which represent a slow-down from current growth rates.
