News

Renewable Properties has completed its 3.5-MWDC Clemons Road community solar project in Minoa, New York. The project, in partnership with the Village of Minoa and Ampion, the subscriber manager, has enrolled nearly 100 local residents, making up 20% of the project’s total subscribers. The community-focused initiative aims to provide affordable, renewable energy to Minoa residents, reducing their electricity costs while promoting local sustainability. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on November 19, 2024, at the Clemons Road site, with Minoa Mayor William F. Brazill, Renewable Properties executives, and representatives from Ampion and United Renewable Energy (URE) in attendance. Mayor Brazill highlighted the project’s dual benefits, saying it not only helps Minoa residents save on energy bills but also contributes to the town’s sustainability goals. Local residents were given the first opportunity to subscribe before the project was opened up to others outside the town. Construction of the Clemons Road solar project began in June 2023 and was completed in July 2024. United Renewable Energy (URE), the project’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partner, was responsible for bringing the project to fruition. URE CEO William Silva expressed pride in the project, emphasizing the positive impact of local labor and businesses in making the solar project a reality for Central New York. The Clemons Road community solar project received funding through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) programs, including the NY-Sun Commercial & Industrial Megawatt Block Program and Community Adder, which provided incentives to lower project costs. Renewable Properties, in collaboration with Ampion and URE, plans to expand its community solar initiatives across New York State, helping more residents access affordable, clean energy solutions.

Xcel Energy has launched the second phase of its massive Sherco Solar project in central Minnesota, building on the successful grid connection of 220 MW in October 2024. This phase will add 250 MW of clean solar energy by late 2025, moving the project closer to its final capacity of 710 MW. Once completed in 2026, Sherco Solar will generate enough electricity to power 150,000 homes, cementing its role as a leader in the transition to 100% carbon-free energy in the Upper Midwest. The project is replacing capacity from the retiring Sherco coal plant, aligning with Minnesota's ambitious goals for a carbon-neutral energy grid by 2040. Sherco Solar offers one of the most affordable solar power solutions in the region, ensuring energy reliability while keeping costs low for customers. Xcel Energy’s CEO, Bob Frenzel, emphasized the project’s broader impact, stating that Sherco Solar is “a cornerstone of clean energy innovation that supports communities and builds sustainable infrastructure.” The project is creating significant economic benefits, including $350 million in value for local communities in Sherburne County. It has already generated 400 union construction jobs, with more expected during the second phase. Additionally, Xcel Energy's Power Up workforce program continues to provide training and opportunities for individuals from underrepresented communities, ensuring equitable participation in the state’s clean energy transformation. With the second phase underway, Sherco Solar remains on track to become one of the largest solar energy installations in the United States. By integrating advanced technologies and supporting workforce development, Xcel Energy is demonstrating how renewable energy projects can deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits, setting a strong example for the future of clean energy.

Intersolar & Energy Storage North America (IESNA), a leading platform for renewable energy and energy storage events, has acquired the Midwest Solar Expo (MWSE). This acquisition highlights IESNA’s commitment to advancing the clean energy transition by strengthening its presence in regional markets. Midwest Solar Expo, a premier event for the renewable energy industry in the Midwest, will now benefit from IESNA’s resources and expertise. Jake Rozmaryn, MWSE’s former Executive Director, will serve in an advisory role, while Sharona Kohn will continue as Conference Director. The addition of MWSE aligns with IESNA’s strategic goal of addressing regional clean energy challenges while fostering national growth. Wes Doane, Vice President of IESNA, remarked that the Midwest Solar Expo has long been a key platform for innovation and collaboration in the region. He added that integrating MWSE into IESNA’s portfolio will provide professionals with the tools and connections needed to navigate the rapidly evolving clean energy landscape. This acquisition is part of IESNA’s broader growth strategy, led by its producer, Diversified Communications. Since acquiring Intersolar North America in 2019, the company has expanded its clean energy portfolio to include Energy Storage North America, the Smart Energy Decisions Network, Net Zero Forum, and Intersolar & Energy Storage North America Texas, which debuts this week in Austin. The acquisition of MWSE underscores the growing importance of regional initiatives in advancing renewable energy across the U.S. The next Midwest Solar Expo will take place from June 9-11, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. The event will focus on key topics such as policy, finance, technology, and business innovation, tailored to the unique needs of the Midwest market. As a platform for clean energy professionals, the Expo aims to drive collaboration and equip stakeholders with strategies to address the region’s challenges while contributing to nationwide energy goals.

Bechtel has officially commenced construction of the Copperton Phase 2 Solar Project near Rio Tinto’s Kennecott copper mine in Utah. This solar farm, designed to produce 25 MW of renewable energy, will span 210 acres and integrate advanced bifacial solar panels to maximize energy output. Scheduled for completion in late 2025, the project will complement the existing 5-MW solar array, collectively reducing the mine’s Scope 2 carbon emissions by 21,000 tons annually—a 6% reduction. The Copperton Phase 2 Solar Project is expected to create up to 100 local construction jobs at its peak, delivering economic benefits alongside environmental gains. Scott Austin, Bechtel’s General Manager of Renewables & Clean Power, praised the initiative, stating, “This project is a powerful example of how renewable energy can support industrial operations while advancing decarbonization goals.” This solar expansion builds on Rio Tinto Kennecott’s broader sustainability efforts, which include the closure of a coal-fired power plant, the deployment of battery-electric vehicles, and the use of renewable diesel. Nate Foster, Managing Director of Rio Tinto Kennecott, emphasized the significance of these actions, noting, “We’re proving that mining can be done sustainably, benefiting both the environment and the community.” The Copperton Phase 2 Solar Project aligns with Rio Tinto’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. By integrating renewable energy into its operations, the company is setting a benchmark for sustainable mining practices and showcasing the potential of clean energy to transform heavy industries. This initiative further establishes Utah as a leader in renewable energy innovation.

National Grid Renewables has officially commenced construction on the Apple River Solar Project, a 100-megawatt renewable energy facility in Polk County, Wisconsin. This project is a cornerstone of the company’s mission to bring clean, sustainable energy to rural areas while boosting local economies. Once operational in late 2025, the solar project will generate enough electricity to power approximately 26,000 homes annually, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the Upper Midwest. The Apple River Solar Project is expected to contribute over $36 million to the local economy during its first 20 years of operation. This includes $10 million in tax revenue that will benefit Polk County and neighboring townships, funding community services and infrastructure. Additionally, National Grid Renewables has pledged $500,000 to local charities and organizations through a dedicated charitable fund, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the well-being of the region. The project is being built by Wisconsin-based contractor The Boldt Company, creating 150 jobs across construction and service roles. “We’re proud to contribute to a project that strengthens Wisconsin’s position as a leader in renewable energy,” said Mark Osten, VP of Business Development at Boldt. The facility will feature First Solar Series 6 Plus bifacial solar panels, cutting-edge technology designed to maximize energy efficiency by capturing sunlight on both sides of the panel. Supplying power to Xcel Energy customers, Apple River Solar exemplifies the shift toward renewable energy in the Midwest. Joe Ibrahim, VP of Construction at National Grid Renewables, expressed the broader vision: “Our goal is to bolster rural economies while delivering sustainable, locally produced energy solutions.” By leveraging innovative technology and local expertise, this project underscores Wisconsin’s growing role in the clean energy transition.

Navisun, an independent power producer, has partnered with Queen City Solar, a North Carolina-based solar developer, to bring 30 MW of community solar power to Maryland. This initiative aims to increase access to solar energy for underserved communities across the state. Navisun will take the lead in financing and overseeing the projects, while both companies share the risks and benefits of the venture. The community solar projects will be located across Maryland, with four in Western Maryland on underutilized land such as dormant agricultural lots and former mining sites. The other five projects will be in Central and Eastern Maryland, utilizing underutilized farmland and family-owned plots. Landowners hosting the solar arrays will receive yearly lease payments, benefiting both the local economy and the environment. Once completed, the 30 MW of community solar will provide power to 3,000 customers, with at least half qualifying as low- or middle-income. The projects will be integrated into Maryland's community solar program, expanding clean energy access to a broader range of customers. This effort aligns with Maryland’s goal of increasing renewable energy availability and affordability. The first phase of the projects is expected to begin development in early 2025, with construction slated to begin later that same year. Matt Preskenis, Senior VP of Business Development at Navisun, emphasized the importance of co-development in reaching energy communities that have traditionally been left out of the clean energy transition, making this partnership a crucial step in providing renewable energy to Maryland residents.

EG4 Electronics has launched its new FlexBOSS21 hybrid inverter, a powerful energy solution designed for residential and small commercial applications. With its 21-kW PV power capacity and 24-kW max PV input, the FlexBOSS21 is built to deliver reliable and flexible energy management, making it an ideal choice for households and light commercial setups looking to optimize energy costs and ensure backup power during outages. This high-performance hybrid inverter stands out for its 16-kWAC grid output with PV power and 12-kWAC battery backup power, providing robust energy support even during peak usage. Designed for flexibility, the FlexBOSS21 accommodates sell-back, off-grid, and multi-modal configurations, allowing users to integrate grid, battery, and load requirements seamlessly. With triple MPPTs configured at 26A/26A/15A, the FlexBOSS21 allows for up to five solar panel strings in various orientations, maximizing solar energy intake. Despite its impressive output, this hybrid inverter maintains a compact design for easy installation in tight spaces, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The FlexBOSS21 also meets the needs of modern households and small businesses by supporting large, whole-home energy loads such as HVAC systems, EV chargers, and electric water heaters. It’s an optimal solution for customers using Net Energy Metering (NEM) or Time-of-Use (TOU) plans, allowing them to control costs through smart load management and efficient power distribution. Compatible with AC-coupled solar, generator backup systems, EV charging, and smart load management systems, the FlexBOSS21 seamlessly integrates into existing setups. When paired with GridBOSS technology, the FlexBOSS21 provides comprehensive energy management on 120/240-VAC split-phase services, supporting unified and efficient energy control. Whether for home or small business energy needs, the FlexBOSS21 hybrid inverter empowers users with a reliable, flexible, and powerful energy solution that aligns with modern energy goals, providing clean energy backup and cost-effective management.

Nautilus Solar Energy has completed a 7-megawatt community solar project on a remediated brownfield site in Sanford, Maine, bringing clean energy access to more than 960 subscribers within the Central Maine Power (CMP) service area. Developed in partnership with Walden Renewables, the project demonstrates how contaminated land can be transformed into a productive renewable energy source, supporting local communities and environmental goals. The Sanford solar project is part of Maine’s Net Energy Billing (NEB) program, which aligns with the state’s target to achieve 80% renewable energy by 2030 and a path to 100% by 2050. This initiative allows Maine residents and businesses to subscribe to Nautilus Community Solar, providing an opportunity for electricity savings without the need for rooftop solar installations. Located on a former industrial site, the solar farm’s development involved extensive collaboration with the City of Sanford, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Maine Turnpike Authority. This partnership has transformed the previously unused land into a sustainable energy hub, generating lease revenue for the city and creating job opportunities. With the Sanford project now fully operational, Nautilus Solar continues to lead in community solar development, contributing to Maine’s clean energy transition and local economic resilience. This brownfield solar farm is a model of how community solar can benefit both the environment and the economy.

FranklinWH, a leader in residential energy storage, has announced a partnership expansion with EnergyHub, integrating FranklinWH’s home energy management systems into EnergyHub’s Edge distributed energy resource management (DERMS) platform. This collaboration aims to accelerate the growth of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and support grid stability by enabling more flexibility in energy resource use for utilities and consumers alike. The integration allows homeowners with FranklinWH systems to participate in utility VPP programs, offering them the opportunity to contribute stored energy to the grid during high-demand periods. As a result, utilities can reduce strain on the grid and decrease reliance on fossil fuels, while homeowners receive incentives for their contributions and gain whole-home backup power during outages. “With this expanded partnership, we’re making it easier for utilities to adopt VPP programs and for residential customers to participate with the energy devices of their choice,” said Matt Johnson, EnergyHub’s VP of Business Development. “This integration strengthens our network of energy resources, ultimately supporting a more resilient, reliable, and sustainable grid across North America.” FranklinWH is currently participating in VPP programs with EnergyHub in states like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and North Carolina, where demand for flexible energy options is rapidly growing. As utilities increasingly recognize the benefits of VPPs for managing grid demand, partnerships like this are critical to maximizing the value of distributed energy resources and enhancing grid reliability. Vincent Ambrose, Chief Commercial Officer at FranklinWH, noted the rising interest in VPP participation among FranklinWH customers. “We’re pleased to partner with EnergyHub to support utility needs and offer homeowners new opportunities to use their energy systems for both savings and backup power.” Together, FranklinWH and EnergyHub are focused on expanding VPP programs throughout the U.S. and Canada, aiming to empower more homeowners to manage their energy use actively while enhancing grid stability. As the energy sector moves toward distributed and renewable solutions, partnerships like this play a crucial role in accelerating clean energy adoption and grid modernization.

PV mounting system specialist AEROCOMPACT has expanded its COMPACTMETAL TL series with the release of the TLE25 and TLE38 solar mounts, designed specifically for trapezoidal metal roofs. These mounts feature integrated risers and pre-punched bridges, allowing installation without pre-drilling, thanks to AEROCOMPACT’s self-drilling screws with built-in sealing washers. This innovation aims to improve both installation efficiency and weatherproofing. Standing at 80 mm in height, the TLE25 and TLE38 models offer a secure, watertight connection that can withstand significant wind and snow loads. In addition, AEROCOMPACT has introduced the TSE15 model, part of the COMPACTMETAL TS short-rail system, which features an 80-mm integrated riser and installs along the trapezoidal sheet-metal ribs for quick and economical setup. Both the TLE and TSE mounts allow rear-side module ventilation to optimize performance and provide ample space for wire management and MLPE installation. Designed for durability, these new solar mounts are built with corrosion-resistant materials, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing system longevity. The high load-bearing capacity and secure installation of the TLE and TSE models make them ideal for rooftop solar arrays on trapezoidal sheet metal. AEROCOMPACT will present these new mounts at the upcoming RE+ Midwest event in Chicago, where they will showcase their commitment to advanced and durable solar mounting systems. Each product in the new series comes with a 25-year warranty, reflecting AEROCOMPACT's assurance of quality and long-term reliability for rooftop solar installations.