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.
CPUC vote expected to keep California community solar from reaching its full potential
Coalition for Community Solar Access says the 3-1 vote ignored the will of the California Legislature and the broad coalition of ratepayer, equity, environmental, labor, agricultural, and business groups who have demanded a functional community solar program for more than a decade.
CPUC’s revised proposed decision could decimate California’s community solar market
Just as an increasing number of states are implementing pro-active community solar policies, the California Public Utilities Commission is set to vote on a revised proposed decision that fails to seize on the opportunity to create a vibrant market, according to the Coalition for Community Solar Access.
Texas is the proving ground for a new way of electric grid operation
Texas is uniquely suited to adopt virtual power plant technology due to its competitive, deregulated market. Its success highlights the “perverse incentive” of vertically integrated utilities in other states to make capital expenditures without discretion to raise profits.
Sunrise brief: Solar industry panel cautions about 2025 Texas Legislature
Also on the rise: Florida does a heel-turn on renewables, solar provides 31% of California’s electricity in April, and perovskites move into production.
Solar peaks at 123% of grid, supplies 31% of California’s April electricity
The Golden State set multiple clean energy records in April, with solar power increasingly dominating the grid, supported by robust energy storage solutions.
Sunrise brief: Rooftop bladeless wind energy innovation secures $9 million in funding
Also on the rise: A faltering SunPower now offers Tesla Powerwall 3 to residential solar customers. California is now a batteries-included rooftop solar market. And more.
California is now a batteries-included rooftop solar market
About 60% of customers have included battery energy storage with their rooftop solar installation, up from roughly 10% prior. However, a “sustained downturn” is expected for the market.
Strong state solar policies boost adoption of distributed energy
Of the 29 GW of solar installed in the U.S. in 2023, 31% was distributed solar, according to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.
Sunrise brief: U.S. solar exceeds five million installations
Also on the rise: Push back on net billing. The U.S. multi-pronged approach to onshoring solar manufacturing. And more.
