Author: solarenergy
Late last week, the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) dealt a blow to the state’s goal of rapidly growing local energy storage capacity, according to the California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA). The CSLB voted to approve a new rule that would prohibit licensed solar contractors from installing new battery storage capacity in existing solar energy systems or performing maintenance on battery storage systems, including those they installed themselves. Those projects would now require a licensed electrician. Licensed solar contractors could still install smaller battery storage at the same time solar systems are being installed, but the inability to…
Despite the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a large number of homeowners have not taken advantage of the tax incentives. This presents a unique opportunity for contractors to tie these tax savings into their customer offerings. Educating homeowners on the benefits of the potential tax incentives will drive sales and improve cost savings for consumers interested in electrification products — creating a consumer mindset shift that will positively impact our industry and help us reach our climate goals. What the IRA offers homeowners As the single biggest climate policy in history, the IRA includes $370 billion in investments…
SnapNracka manufacturer of solar mounting solutions, and DefinitelyTeeda North American manufacturer of sustainable building materials, partners to provide free solar energy, shelving, asphalt shingles and craftsmanship guarantees on residential PV projects. Credit: SnapNrack SnapNrack and CertainTeed have introduced a solar and solar mounting option to the market that will not void the limited warranty on asphalt shingles against manufacturing defects. Under the partnership, a solar system installed with CertainTeed asphalt shingles, SnapNrack fasteners and CertainTeed Solstice panels is eligible for CertainTeed umbrella coverage, provided the installation is performed by a CertainTeed Solar approved contractor. “One of the most common questions…
Researchers in China have designed a two-stage, solar-assisted thermochemical heat pump system that uses caustic soda and water as a working pair. The system can reportedly achieve an energy storage density of 363 kWh/m3 and is considered by its creators to be an ideal solution for residential buildings with limited space. April 26, 2024 Emiliano BelliniResearchers from China’s Zhejiang University have designed a new solar-assisted system thermochemical heat pump system that can be used for space heating, cooling and domestic hot water (DHW) in residential applications.“In our work, we proposed a system that aims to achieve greater energy storage density,”…
SkyPower Global has signed a 1 GW solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with a Zambian utility to supply electricity to approximately 4 million households. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema praised the importance of the deal amid ongoing droughts. April 26, 2024 Patrick Jowett Image: Michael Pointner, UnsplashSkyPower Global has signed a 1 GW PPA with state-owned companies utility company Zambia Electricity Supply Corp. (ZESCO). That’s what the Canadian solar developer said the Green Giant Zambia project will provide electricity to approximately 4 million households, create jobs and support infrastructure development.“The Green Giant Zambia initiative is a monumental step towards a sustainable…
As Thanksgiving approaches, we think about what we are grateful for: health, happiness, and a warm, comfortable home. This year, why not thank your Colorado Springs home by investing in its value and durability? Home solar panels turn your home into a green energy powerhouse, delivering significant cost savings and a promising return on investment.
The cost of installing a home solar energy system has rapidly decreased over the past few years, and prices are still on the decline. If you’re considering going solar, the best time to act is during the design phase of your new home. By integrating solar technology into your new home’s construction, you can capitalize on both its environmental and financial benefits, avoiding the need for a more complex and costly retrofit installation later on. Tips for Owners and Builders Designing a “Solar Ready” New Home A recent study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reveals that integrating solar…
Introduction The significance of the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) in the global dialogue on climate action cannot be overstated. Set in Dubai, this gathering of climate leaders, advocates, and civil society representatives marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a more sustainable future, with Climate Finance topics central to the discussions. Climate finance, in its essence, embodies the financial streams and investments aimed at supporting mitigation and adaptation activities to counter climate change. This year, COP28 unfolds against a backdrop of efforts aimed at transforming financial institutions and mobilizing new funds. Significant steps…
Boviet Solar has officially announced its plans to start a solar panel manufacturing facility in Greenville, North Carolina. The move is referred to as “Project Gen” for several months in the provincial archives. Boviet Solar will utilize incentives and grants from Pitt County and the North Carolina Dept. of Commerce for the renovation of an existing 500,000 ft.2 building in the Indigreen Corporate Park. The company plans a second 500,000 ft2 construction on site for the production of solar cells. Both the panel factory and the cell factory will have an annual capacity of 2 GW. The location should create…
S-5!, a mounting systems supplier, plans to release two new mounting components for rooftop PV systems, including a new mount that allows module-level power electronics to be attached directly to solar panel frames. April 11, 2024 David Caroll S-5 headquartered in the USA! claims that the new MLPE Mount provides a versatile method to attach and connect microinverters and power optimizers directly to the underside of solar panel frames mounted on metal roofs.“This provides the versatility needed to better manage wire management from module to module and electrically interconnect the equipment to easily meet grounding requirements,” the company said.S-5! The…