A 15% efficient solar window that delivers 40% of US electricity
University of Michigan team hopes to offer a 15% efficient solar window product, that allows 50% of the light through, and have received $1.3 million from the Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office to develop it further.
Pro-clean energy candidates for governor identified by AEE win 7 “open” elections
The new governors favor policies such as a higher renewables mandate, community solar, increased use of storage, and expanding the Western grid, reports the nonprofit Advanced Energy Economy.
EQ Research: Utilities failing at fixed charge increases
The research firm’s latest analysis of utility rate case filings finds regulators often rejecting the hikes on fixed charges that many utilities are asking for. However, the general direction of fixed charges is still upwards.
Land secured for massive solar farm in Michigan
The project, developed by Ranger solar, would represent a 200% increase in Michigan’s entire installed capacity as a state by the time of its anticipated completion in 2020.
Democrats sweep AEE clean energy scorecards
Trade group Advanced Energy Economy has published a scorecard which ranks candidates in nine gubernatorial races on clean energy issues, and one of the two major parties is largely missing in action.
Michigan resumes PURPA in Consumers Energy territory
With state regulators settling on conditions for PURPA contracts after a 10-month suspension, SEIA says that the state’s solar market can now move forward. However, the devil may still be in details yet to come.
Michigan rules on five solar programs: three move forward
State regulators have authorized two Consumers Energy green pricing programs, while telling a third – by DTE Energy – to do a bit more cost calculations. Additionally, Consumers’ Solar Gardens program was approved.
Scientists claim 10% saving for black silicon cell production with dry etching
Researchers from Michigan Technological University and Finland’s Aalto University say they have demonstrated that the cost per unit of power of black silicon PERC cells could fall 10.8%, despite an increase in cell processing cost.
RBI Solar integrates, literally and figuratively, SolarBOS
Gibraltar Industries, owner of solar racking company RBI Solar, of Cincinnati, OH has acquired balance of system designer SolarBOS, of California.
Michigan municipality going 100% renewable
The Traverse City Light and Power Company has approved a plan to move to 100% renewable energy by 2040. The interim plan inlcudes a goal of 15% renewable by 2021, and 40% by 2025.
