Montana

REC Advanced Silicon Material LLC is shutting down one of its two polysilicon production facilities in the United States. It says the decision is primarily due to regional structural imbalances in supply and demand for electricity.

From January through October 2023, solar photovoltaics contributed 5.78% to U.S. electricity, with just over 6% coming from the source in October alone.

Also on the rise: 38% solar growth pushing wind-solar dynamic duo past coal in 2024. Next generation winning legal battles against fossil fuel policy. And more.

A recent landmark decision in Montana is considered a game changer, marking a turning point in efforts to save the planet from the devastating effects of fossil fuel use.

Central inverters still dominate the U.S. utility solar market but string inverters are beginning to get more traction in 10+ MW projects.  

Also on the rise: Puerto Rico moves into seventh place for residential solar per capita. Invested in our planet: Financing the clean energy transition. And more.

At a “flip the switch” event held in Missoula this week, officials christened a 545 kW municipal solar project, which Ameresco will maintain under a 25-year solar energy agreement which had zero upfront cost to the municipality, the companies said.

Montana, dubbed the Big Sky Country state, ranks 30th in the country based on its abundant hydro and wind resources, but is ranked 44th based on solar energy output.

U.S. Court of Appeals rules that an 80 MWac/160 MWdc solar farm, with 50 MW of battery, meets Qualifying Facility status – 80 MWac or less – under PURPA.

The 385-mile North Plains Connector project to be built by 2029 will ease power transmission congestion and allow clean energy onto the grid.