United States

Virtual power plants (VPPs) coordinate distributed resources and demand for a more resilient, cost-effective energy transition. And they are gaining traction in the United States.

A study conducted by researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory shows that microgrids with solar-plus-storage systems can keep the average levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and annual public safety power shutoffs below 30 cents per kWh and 2 to 3% of annual energy demand, respectively.

Also on the rise: Canadian Solar announces 5 GW Texas module factory. $7 billion in EPA grants to advance low-income residential and community solar. And more.

Holcim plans to install solar on a 100-acre field site on the Alpena, Michigan property, which produces 2.4 million metric tons of cement per year, including the OneCem brand cement.

California has long been the leader in solar adoption, investing over $90 billion in the technology to date.

A new government research framework identifies farms using pollinator services within reach of existing solar facilities. The aim is to determine the financial benefits of these services for both farmers and solar landowners.

The “Solar for All” grant program is expected to begin accepting applications from states and other entities as early as this month, aiming to enable millions of families in low-income and disadvantaged communities to access solar energy.

Representing an investment of $250 million, the facility is expected to bring 1,500 jobs.

Reactivate’s inaugural cohort was trained in solar installation and design based on the criteria of NABCEP PV Associate certification.

Two European energy companies, Meyer Burger and BayWa r.e., have finalized a contract for their U.S. operations in which the developer will purchase 1.25 GW of modules from the manufacturer’s Arizona facility from 2025 to 2029.