They’re back: Campaign for Accountability asks FTC to investigate solar industry
The last time the government watchdog group made solar news, they asked the Oregon attorney general to investigate what they called ‘deceptive sales practices’ in the state. Now they’re asking the Federal Trade Commission to do the same nationwide.
NYSERDA offers toolkit for navigating payments to local governments
The toolkit is designed to help local municipalities understand and negotiate payment-in-lieu-of taxes agreements with solar developers.
New Hampshire solar rebate program hits a granite wall
The state’s Public Utility Commission froze the program on July 14, delaying processing until at least September and putting hundreds of applications on ice.
NCCETC: Net metering slowly shifting to value of solar
This quarter’s report on policies and rate design that affect distributed solar showed many of the same themes as previous reports, but also a glacial shift in approach.
A Florida first: South Miami to require solar on new homes
The new regulation, the first of its kind outside of California, mandates 2.75 kW of solar for every 1000 square feet on new homes, as well as those that increase their square footage by 75% or more.
Hawaii regulators approve HECO’s 100% renewable energy plan
After years of trying to get utilities fully on board, HECO has issued a five-year plan to double solar and renewables on the road to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2040.
You install 1600 megawatts and what do you get? Another 1600 MW!
Massachusetts has installed 1600 MW of solar three years ahead of schedule, but will the state’s next 1600 plan be as SMART? A plan has been filed and comments made, while the state’s existing solar program is getting capped out.
California’s energy transition needs more than cap and trade
The state’s landmark program, which includes carbon price high enough to affect the electric power sector, has been extended. However, California may have bigger challenges when it comes to transforming its energy system.
Trump appoints uncontroversial energy lawyer to head FERC
Kevin McIntyre has a lot of experience with federal energy cases but has made few waves, and so far the solar industry is taking a wait-and-see approach.
Leaked DOE study draft: U.S. grids are getting more reliable, not less
A leaked draft of the study ordered by DOE Secretary Perry appears to show what we already knew: That grids are getting more reliable, not less, as wind and solar are added. But the political tampering with the facts may already be happening.
