REC Silicon to suspend production at Washington State polysilicon factory
REC Silicon has revealed plans to halt operations at its Moses Lake facility in 17 days’ time. The company says it has taken the decision to maintain liquidity for its semiconductor business with American workers set to pay the price for President Trump’s trade war with China.
2018 solar power year in review (part 2)
In part 2 we look at more of some of the action in 2018, from the dramatic growth of the 100% renewable energy movement to California’s mandate for rooftop solar on new homes.
The details of Washington’s call for carbon-neutral power
Governor Inslee is calling for the state to entirely eliminate fossil fuels in its electricity supply by 2045, as part of a package of reforms. This should boost a nascent solar market in the northwestern state.
Washington State carbon tax rejected soundly, again
Initiative Measure No. 1631, a tax of $15/ton on carbon pollution, was rejected 56-43% on almost 2 million votes. It was the most expensive ballot measure ever in the state with over $46 million in advertising dollars spent.
Top states and races to watch for clean energy on election day
Clean energy is on the ballot on November 6, and these are the states where voters will be making the biggest decisions.
Washington’s largest solar plant comes online
Avista Utilities, Strata Solar and Swinerton Renewables have come together to build a 28 MW-DC single axis tracker facility in Adams County, Washington. The facility will sell its electricity to 61 unique customers.
REC Silicon struggles with even lower demand, Chinese tariffs
Revenue for the polysilicon maker’s solar materials segment fell almost 70% on the previous quarter, and the company reports its Moses Lake, Washington facility is running at only 25% capacity.
Members of congress warn of REC Silicon plant closure
A group of senators and representatives from Washington and Montana led by the top democrat on the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee are calling on President Trump to negotiate with China and save REC’s Moses Lake facility.
GRID Alternatives launches fund to solarize Native American communities
The nonprofit has partnered with more than 40 Native American tribes to install about three megawatts of solar capacity since 2010, and train 550 individuals.
REC Silicon hit by falling demand in Q2
The polysilicon maker has been a casualty of the trade war between the United States and China. Following layoffs, the company expects its plant in Washington to run at only 25% capacity until the trade war is resolved.
