The benefits and challenges in expanding local clean energy
Local clean energy ownership gives residents decision-making power over the construction, operation and distribution of benefits from clean energy projects, according to a report by Institute for Local Self Reliance.
High-voltage mini solar panel converts laser light into electricity
Scientists developed a monocrystalline solar panel relying on “minicells” based on polysilicon on silicon oxide passivating contacts. The module works with laser light and can reportedly achieve a photoconversion efficiency of over 40% and an open-circuit voltage of 7 V.
Sunrise brief: Bifacial perovskites show 93% backside efficiency
Also on the rise: First Solar inks 5 GW supply deal with Energix. EPA announces two grant opportunities for clean tech projects. And more.
EPA announces two grant opportunities for clean tech projects
Two Notices of Funding Opportunities total $20 billion and aim to mobilize private capital into clean tech projects to create jobs and lower energy costs.
Perovskites show 93% bifaciality
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory demonstrated highly bifacial perovskite cells with a front side efficiency of 23%.
Massachusetts greenlights 800 MWh battery energy storage facilities
The Commonwealth overruled the decisions of its own siting boards and one town’s moratoria on all solar and storage projects, paving the way for the imminent construction of two significant energy storage facilities.
First Solar inks 5 GW supply deal with Energix
The thin film solar module provider is now booking orders to 2030.
First half 2023 total solar corporate funding increased 54% year-over-year
According to Mercom’s Solar Funding report almost 25.5 GW of solar projects were acquired in the first half of the year, totaling $18.5 billion.
Lincoln Park’s first community solar program
Low-income and minority communities are often most affected by extreme and damaging weather storms, as well as to indoor air pollution and higher energy costs. However, one community in Minnesota is actively working to change that.
Solar-plus-storage evaluated for resilience at seven Florida community health centers
Solar-plus-storage systems at any of the nation’s 14,000 community health centers can keep them running through power outages, and preserve medications requiring refrigeration. A Florida study evaluated the systems’ health care value and the financial return.
