Grid defection is profitable in some solar-rich U.S. locations
Researchers from Canada’s Western University assessed eighteen case studies across thirteen US states and found in areas an economic case for disconnecting from the electricity grid in some areas with high solar irradiation and high electricity rates. They say economic grid defection and utility death spirals are becoming salient issues in the U.S.
Optimal sites for solar projects are becoming harder to find
A survey conducted by Paces said average acreage and feeder capacity are shrinking in Illinois and New York.
Solar corporate funding down 23% so far this year
Total corporate funding in the solar industry reached $22.3 billion over the first nine months of 2024, representing a 23% year-on-year decrease. Mercom Capital Group says that while global uncertainties are affecting investor confidence, an increase in debt financing and resilience in newly-announced large-scale project funding remain bright spots for the sector.
Solar developer reduces tariff risk by engaging with supply chain platform
For NewSun Energy, the Anza platform serves as part of its procurement arm, helping the developer mitigate module supply risk and secure fixed pricing and terms despite pending tariffs.
California farmers developing 20 GW solar-plus-storage plan
The Golden State recently signed AB 2661, granting the Westland Water District authority to develop transmission lines that will enable solar energy and storage projects on 130,000 acres of drainage-impaired farmland.
Sunrise brief: Tornado rips through solar farm in Florida
Also on the rise: Californians across party lines voice support for solar, distrust of utilities. A look at next generation battery cells. And more.
Californians across party lines voice support for solar, distrust of utilities
Despite broad support for rooftop solar, the state’s Governor Newsom, the Public Utilities Commission, and the state’s investor-owned utilities are making it harder for homeowners, schools and farms to install solar.
Tornado rips through solar farm in Florida
Duke Energy’s Lake Placid Solar Power Plant experienced an EF-2 tornado during Hurricane Milton, shredding a swath of solar modules while leaving most of the facility intact.
California utility offers bidirectional EV charging at dynamic hourly rates
Customers of California utility PG&E who own certain models of electric vehicles may enroll in a pilot program for bidirectional EV charging. The program aims to show how improving distribution circuit utilization can keep customer costs down, by reducing the need for distribution upgrades.
Capstone and Eurowind plan eight-hour, 3.2 GWh battery storage project in California
Energy planning body the California Energy Commission (CEC) is considering an application for a big battery that would be operational by June 2028.
