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Governor Kathy Hochul heralds the groundbreaking of a transformative initiative at John F. Kennedy International Airport, signaling a bold leap toward sustainable aviation. The project, a collaboration between the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the New York Power Authority (NYPA), is set to become the state's largest onsite solar + storage endeavor. At the heart of this venture lies a sprawling solar carport canopy, spanning an area equivalent to 11 football fields within JFK's long-term parking lot 9. Once completed, this innovative structure will not only provide sheltered parking for 3,000 vehicles but will also harness solar energy, generating an estimated 12 MW of clean power on-site. The impact of this initiative extends beyond the airport grounds, with the solar carport poised to supply electricity to power the AirTrain while also contributing to reducing energy costs for residents in low-income neighborhoods across Queens. Moreover, plans include integrating a 6-MW community solar generation facility and 7.5 MW of battery storage to bolster energy resilience, particularly during times of high demand or grid disruptions. TotalEnergies has been enlisted to oversee the construction and operation of the JFK solar project, marking a significant partnership between public and private sectors in advancing sustainable infrastructure development. Governor Hochul emphasizes the project's alignment with New York's ambitious climate agenda, highlighting its role in accelerating the transition to clean energy and creating employment opportunities that support families. The project will unfold in two phases, with Phase 1 aimed at delivering energy to the airport by March 2025, followed by Phase 2, which will extend benefits to the surrounding community starting in April 2026. This timeline underscores the commitment to a sustainable and equitable energy transition. As construction progresses, the JFK solar + storage project stands as a testament to the Port Authority's dedication to sustainability, complementing existing solar initiatives across various airport facilities and advancing the agency's ambition of achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Through the NYS Community Distributed Generation Program, the project will guarantee electric bill savings for historically disadvantaged households, addressing energy affordability concerns and championing environmental justice. The endeavor represents a significant stride towards a cleaner, more resilient future for New York and sets a precedent for sustainable infrastructure development within the aviation industry.

As large-scale solar (LSS) farms continue to proliferate across the country, a recent survey sheds light on the attitudes of residents living near these expansive solar developments. Conducted by researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Michigan State University, and the University of Michigan, the survey provides valuable insights into public perceptions surrounding LSS projects. The survey, the first of its kind on a national scale, polled nearly 1,000 residents residing in proximity to solar projects. Results indicated that within a three-mile radius of LSS developments, positive sentiments outweighed negative ones by almost a 3-to-1 ratio. Key findings from the survey revealed that 42% of respondents expressed support for additional solar development in their communities, while only 18% opposed further projects. However, despite the overall positive sentiment, over 80% of respondents were unaware of the solar projects prior to their construction, with a significant portion learning about them only after completing the survey. Doug Bessette, an associate professor at Michigan State University, emphasized the importance of the survey results. "The generally positive responses from residents are encouraging, considering the anticipated growth of solar development in the coming years," Bessette remarked. "However, there is still work to be done, particularly in addressing concerns related to larger projects and garnering support from neighbors in close proximity to these developments." The survey revealed that attitudes towards LSS projects varied depending on factors such as project size, aesthetics, economics, and perceptions of fairness in the planning process. While smaller projects garnered mostly positive responses, larger projects tended to evoke more negative attitudes. Residents expressed a preference for increased community involvement in the planning process and favored local hiring, procurement, and ownership of solar projects. They also indicated a preference for siting LSS projects on disturbed sites like landfills rather than on farmland. Jake White, a doctoral student involved in the survey, highlighted the desire for greater community engagement in LSS planning processes. "Our findings underscore the importance of providing residents with increased opportunities for participation in planning discussions," White noted. "This presents a significant opportunity for improvement in LSS planning processes and could lead to more favorable outcomes for all stakeholders involved." While the survey results indicate moderate support for solar development, further analysis is planned to delve deeper into influencing factors and address equity concerns. As the solar industry continues to expand, understanding community perspectives is crucial for fostering sustainable and inclusive solar development practices. Source: Michigan State University

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, Nextracker has launched its latest innovation, the NX Horizon low-carbon solar tracker system. This flagship product boasts a remarkable 35% reduction in carbon footprint, representing a significant milestone in the solar energy industry. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and a robust supply chain strategy, Nextracker aims to revolutionize the way solar power is sourced, manufactured, and deployed. The NX Horizon low-carbon tracker solution utilizes electric arc furnace (EAF) manufacturing and recycled steel, positioning it as a frontrunner in environmentally conscious solar technologies. By strategically locating logistics near project sites, Nextracker ensures efficiency and sustainability throughout the entire process. To validate the environmental benefits of its low-carbon tracker system, Nextracker has conducted a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) documented by third-party verification. This analysis highlights reductions in carbon footprint, land use, water consumption, and other key metrics associated with the lifecycle of solar trackers. Moreover, Nextracker has achieved Carbon Trust Product Carbon Footprint label certification, affirming its adherence to global standards for carbon emission reporting and methodology. Dan Shugar, Founder and CEO of Nextracker, expressed enthusiasm for the company's commitment to decarbonizing solar power. "Our low-carbon tracker represents a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future," Shugar remarked. "By prioritizing circular and renewable steelmaking, optimizing logistics, and selecting responsible raw material providers, we are proud to offer a solution that meets the evolving needs of our customers while driving environmental stewardship." Initial orders for the NX Horizon low-carbon tracker have already been secured from leading solar customers in the United States. These customers share Nextracker's vision for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Yuri Horwitz, Co-founder and CEO of Sol Systems, commended Nextracker's commitment to innovation and sustainability. "Nextracker's dedication to advancing low-carbon solutions sets a standard for the energy sector," Horwitz stated. "Together, we are shaping the future of energy infrastructure and paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient energy landscape." Nextracker's emphasis on sustainable supply chain solutions extends to its manufacturing processes, which prioritize controlled upstream sourcing of raw materials and domestic production. By utilizing Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) processing and reducing the use of carbon-intensive materials such as aluminum, Nextracker minimizes environmental impact and promotes resource efficiency. The NX Horizon low-carbon tracker is now available, with the first shipments expected later this year. As Nextracker continues to lead the charge towards a greener tomorrow, the company reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the solar energy sector. Source: Nextracker

In a landmark announcement coinciding with Earth Day celebrations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed the selection of 60 recipients set to receive a collective $7 billion in grant awards through the Solar for All grant competition. This initiative, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, aims to facilitate the deployment of residential solar projects to over 900,000 households across the nation. Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act within the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, the Solar for All program is a pivotal component of the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to combat climate change and advance environmental justice. By delivering solar energy solutions to low-income and disadvantaged communities, the initiative not only reduces energy costs for families but also creates high-quality jobs and addresses climate change impacts. "We're proud to invest in equitable access to clean energy through the Solar for All program," remarked U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. "This initiative will not only create jobs but also provide affordable solar power to communities nationwide." The selected recipients span states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits, all of whom will develop comprehensive solar programs tailored to meet the needs of their communities. These programs will not only provide grants and low-cost financing to overcome financial barriers but also address other obstacles such as siting, permitting, and interconnection. Furthermore, the Solar for All program aligns with President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that at least 40% of the benefits flow to disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by pollution and underinvestment. By expanding access to solar energy, the program contributes to the administration's goal of achieving a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050. "With Solar for All, we're making significant strides toward environmental justice and clean energy," said EPA Administrator [Administrator's Name]. "These grants represent a transformative investment in communities nationwide, driving us closer to our climate and equity goals." The grants awarded through the Solar for All program will not only deploy residential solar projects but also advance workforce development initiatives and support local clean energy economies. With a focus on equity, sustainability, and economic empowerment, this initiative stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive future. As the selected recipients embark on their respective projects, communities across the country can look forward to reaping the benefits of accessible, affordable solar energy, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

In a visionary revelation, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) forecasts a remarkable transformation in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), with suburban areas poised to claim the lion's share of the burgeoning EV market by 2030. According to NREL's groundbreaking report, an astounding 60% of the projected 33 million EVs in the United States are expected to call suburban neighborhoods home, signaling a seismic shift in transportation dynamics and urban planning strategies. The report's insights extend beyond suburban dominance, shedding light on the diverse distribution of EVs across different community settings. Rural regions are projected to accommodate 20% of the EV fleet, mirroring the share anticipated in bustling urban centers. This nuanced forecast underscores the multifaceted nature of EV adoption and the varying charging infrastructure needs across different environments. Delving into charging network demands, the report unveils a fascinating dichotomy: while public DC fast chargers are set to proliferate in urban landscapes, catering to 40% of EV charging needs, suburban and rural areas are expected to heavily rely on residential charging solutions. Level 1 (L1) and Level 2 (L2) chargers integrated into single-family residences are forecasted to satisfy an impressive 64% and 82% of EV electricity needs, respectively, in these settings. The emphasis on residential charging infrastructure highlights its pivotal role in accelerating widespread EV adoption. While public DC fast chargers offer expedited charging, the accessibility and convenience of residential charging stations emerge as critical drivers of the EV revolution. As society navigates the evolving landscape of mobility, these insights serve as guiding beacons, illuminating a future where EVs play a central role in sustainable transportation. With concerted efforts to enhance charging infrastructure, we stand poised to embrace a greener, more innovative era of mobility.

In a significant move towards bolstering renewable energy infrastructure, New York legislators have approved the incorporation of the Renewable Action Through Project Interconnection and Deployment (RAPID) Act into the final FY 2024-25 State Budget. Proposed by Governor Kathy Hochul earlier in January, the RAPID Act aims to streamline the environmental review and permitting processes for major renewable energy and transmission projects. Under the RAPID Act, the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) within the Department of Public Service (DPS) will serve as a centralized hub for project permitting. This consolidation intends to expedite decision-making while maintaining a balanced approach towards environmental protection and community engagement. Governor Hochul emphasized that the RAPID Act seeks to establish a clear statutory framework that facilitates prompt decision-making without compromising on transparency or environmental stewardship. The act is designed to ensure that New York's transmission permitting procedures align with the state's clean energy objectives while remaining responsive to community feedback and environmental considerations. The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) hailed the inclusion of the RAPID Act in the state budget, expressing optimism about its potential to streamline the permitting process for renewable energy and transmission projects. ACE NY's interim executive director, Deb Peck Kelleher, emphasized the crucial role of transmission infrastructure in achieving clean energy goals and underscored the need for improvements in the permitting process. The incorporation of the RAPID Act reflects New York's commitment to accelerating the transition towards renewable energy sources. By facilitating a more efficient permitting process, the state aims to expedite the development of renewable energy projects and strengthen its position as a leader in clean energy innovation. The RAPID Act's inclusion in the state budget marks a significant step forward in New York's renewable energy agenda, signaling a concerted effort to overcome regulatory hurdles and advance towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Clearway Energy Group has announced the successful completion and commissioning of the Victory Pass and Arica solar and storage projects in Riverside County, California. With a combined capacity of 463 MW of solar and 186 MW of battery storage, these projects are set to provide sustainable electricity to power approximately 205,000 homes in the region. Valerie Wooley, Senior Vice President of Origination at Clearway, expressed enthusiasm about the milestone, stating, "We are delighted to bring online the Victory Pass and Arica solar and energy storage complex and begin providing cost-competitive clean energy for California homes and businesses with these projects." The Victory Pass project has secured contracts with Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) and Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), while the Arica project has contracts with Clean Power Alliance (CPA), Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE), MCE, Southern California Edison (SCE), NRG Energy, Inc., and PepsiCo. Peninsula Clean Energy CEO Shawn Marshall emphasized the significance of such projects in addressing climate change, stating, "Increasing our 24/7 renewable power capabilities is critical to helping our region address a rapidly changing climate." Together, Victory Pass and Arica represent a substantial $1 billion investment in Riverside County. Moreover, over their operational lifespan, they are projected to contribute a combined $25.8 million in taxes to support local schools, hospitals, emergency response services, and other public amenities. During the construction phase, the projects created approximately 1,000 union jobs, with expectations to support a permanent workforce throughout their operational lifetime. These projects further solidify Clearway Energy's presence in Riverside County, where the company now boasts over 1.2 GW of operating renewable and storage assets across various utility-scale solar projects and distributed solar installations. The completion of Victory Pass and Arica underscores Clearway Energy's commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and supporting local communities in their transition towards a more sustainable future.

In partnership with Renewable America (RNA), MCE proudly illuminates Marin County with the activation of another 1 MW solar venture. The 4.5-acre Fallon Two Rock solar farm marks MCE’s latest local endeavor, projecting to generate an estimated 2,300 MWh annually, enough to energize 400 homes. "We're thrilled to celebrate Fallon's commercial operation and toast the partnership with MCE at the ribbon-cutting," exclaimed Ardeshir Arian, RNA's President and CEO. "Renewable America's motto 'Think Local. Act Local' drives us to prioritize local projects like Fallon Two Rock that positively impact local communities." The Fallon Two Rock project, launched in January 2024, stands as a testament to MCE's commitment to local energy generation, contributing to their 48 MW portfolio. RNA Services, an RNA subsidiary, spearheaded the project's engineering, procurement, and construction, with continued oversight in operations and maintenance. The Fallon Two Rock project, launched in January 2024, stands as a testament to MCE's commitment to local energy generation, contributing to their 48 MW portfolio. RNA Services, an RNA subsidiary, spearheaded the project's engineering, procurement, and construction, with continued oversight in operations and maintenance. Approved for agricultural-compatible land use, Fallon Two Rock fosters carbon-free electricity production while harmonizing with ongoing agricultural activities. The project employed local firms, including Sunstall and Sierra Tree Company, reinforcing its community-centric ethos. Built with nearly 4,000 hours of prevailing wage labor, Fallon Two Rock showcases RNA's dedication to local economic empowerment. RNA's commitment extends further with a $20,000 contribution to MCE for local workforce development, underlining the holistic approach to sustainable growth. "Celebrating Fallon Two Rock's inauguration underscores our pursuit of a sustainable future," remarked Katie Rice, MCE board director and Marin County supervisor. "RNA's additional funding will propel MCE's efforts to nurture the clean energy economy, offering training opportunities for local residents." As MCE's 16th Feed-In Tariff project in the Bay Area, Fallon Two Rock symbolizes the synergy between renewable energy development and job creation. The FIT program incentivizes local participation by offering competitive rates for renewable energy generation, enriching the region's sustainable landscape.

The California Supreme Court has taken on a significant case concerning the state's NEM 3.0 rooftop solar policy. Filed by the Center for Biological Diversity, the Protect Our Communities Foundation, and the Environmental Working Group, the lawsuit challenges the California Public Utilities Commission's (CPUC) decision on NEM 3.0. The petitioners argue that the policy fails to comply with state laws aimed at fostering the growth of the rooftop solar market, particularly in disadvantaged communities. Implemented on April 15, 2023, NEM 3.0 substantially reduced compensation for homeowners exporting surplus solar power to the grid by approximately 75%. Predictions by industry analysts suggested that NEM 3.0 could lead to a 50% decline in California's rooftop solar market by 2024. Internal research from the California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA) indicated that the state was on track to lose 22% of its solar jobs by the end of 2023 due to the policy changes. Following an unsuccessful lawsuit filed in May 2023 against the CPUC's decision, the petitioners now view the California Supreme Court's decision to review the appeals court's ruling as an opportunity to reverse the adverse impacts of NEM 3.0 and revive the solar industry. Caroline Leary, General Counsel at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), emphasized the importance of the court's intervention in ensuring that societal benefits are considered in setting tariffs for residential rooftop solar generation, as mandated by the NEM statute. Roger Lin, Attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, expressed optimism about the Supreme Court's involvement, foreseeing an opportunity to rectify what he sees as a detrimental policy that undermines the accessibility of rooftop solar benefits for working-class families and jeopardizes California's climate objectives. The legal proceedings are expected to unfold over the summer, with court briefings followed by oral arguments, offering a glimmer of hope for the rooftop solar industry amidst challenging times of declining installations and job losses.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Cook campus is set to revolutionize sustainable farming with the introduction of a vertical solar system on its experimental farm. This innovative project, aimed at exploring the intersection of agriculture and renewable energy, seeks to unlock the potential benefits of agrivoltaics in densely populated regions like New Jersey. As part of the Dual-Use Solar Energy Pilot Program overseen by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), Rutgers is leading the charge in integrating solar panels into traditional farming landscapes. The vertical solar racking system, a first in the northeastern U.S., features ZnShine bifacial panels with a capacity of 170 kWDC. Its strategic design minimizes disruptions to farming operations while maximizing electricity production during peak hours. The project holds significant implications for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. By combining solar energy generation with farming practices, researchers aim to optimize land use efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Moreover, the installation serves as a platform for studying the symbiotic relationship between agriculture and solar energy. Researchers will closely monitor grazing patterns, crop growth, and animal behavior to assess the impact of agrivoltaics on forage production and agricultural sustainability. In addition, the project emphasizes animal welfare with the installation of shelters, drinking facilities, and a handling chute, highlighting Rutgers' holistic approach to sustainable agriculture. This pioneering initiative underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing environmental challenges. With ongoing support from the NJBPU and collaboration with agricultural stakeholders, Rutgers is poised to lead the way in advancing agrivoltaics research and implementation. As New Jersey continues its commitment to renewable energy initiatives, projects like Rutgers' vertical solar system exemplify the potential for sustainable farming practices to shape the future of agriculture and energy production. By harnessing the power of the sun while cultivating the land, Rutgers sets a precedent for sustainable innovation in agriculture nationwide.