Kansas

Hail events have historically posed a considerable risk for utility solar projects, with weather instances creating up to $100 million in damages at large projects located in “Hail Alley” states such as Texas.

Also on the rise: Robots may help with the solar workforce challenge. Flipping the switch on the Vanderbilt I Solar Farm. And more.

Kansas is expected to ramp up its solar buildout considerably over the next five years. The state sources much of its clean energy through the operation of wind turbines.

Adding to its $4 billion Kansas electric vehicle battery factory plans, the company now eyes Oklahoma for a second location.

The facility is planned to be built near Kansas City, creating up to 4,000 jobs. It represents the largest economic development project in the history of Kansas.

Also on the rise: Duke seeks to procure an additional 700MW of solar in 2022. Greenbacker annual revenues grow 39% to $107 million. Kansas state Senator Mike Thomas has made several attempts at legislation that is considered anti-solar in his state, and at times shared false information about the health and economic impacts of renewable energy.

Kansas state Senator Mike Thomas has made several attempts at legislation that is considered anti-solar in his state, and at times he has shared false information about the health and economic impacts of renewable energy.

Fort Riley is a top solar energy producer in Kansas, a state that ranks 44th in the nation for solar.

Kansas state Sen. Mike Thompson (R) is supporting new bills that may slow the rate of renewable energy growth in the state.

The Kansas Geological Survey may help address the challenge of intermittent production from solar and other renewable sources.