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Generac Power Systems has launched a Level 2 EV charger tailored for the North American market. This marks Generac's debut in the electric vehicle charging sector, leveraging its extensive expertise in energy solutions. Kyle Raabe, Executive Vice President of Consumer Power at Generac, highlighted the company's commitment to advancing energy management technologies. The charger features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling remote monitoring and management through the Generac EV Charging app. Users can conveniently schedule and control charging sessions via their smartphones. With five charging modes to accommodate various needs, the Generac Level 2 EV charger comes with a three-year warranty for reliability. It is available through Generac's network of nearly 9,000 certified North American dealers, major online platforms like Amazon, and expanding retail and wholesale distribution channels nationwide. Generac's expansion into EV charging underscores its dedication to delivering high-quality, user-centric solutions that meet evolving energy demands and sustainability objectives.

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps has taken a major step towards sustainability by installing a solar and battery storage system at his Arizona home. The installation includes 90 high-efficiency solar panels, totaling 36.9 kW, and four advanced battery units with a combined storage capacity of 72 kWh. Phelps, a vocal advocate for environmental conservation, shared his enthusiasm for the project. "I am passionate about clean energy and a sustainable future for both my family and the world," Phelps stated. "Having four kids, I want to make the world better for them." The cutting-edge system, designed to maximize energy efficiency, features top-of-the-line solar modules, hybrid inverters, and a sophisticated battery management system. This setup is expected to offset 70% of the Phelps household's annual energy usage and provide backup power for 50% of the home. An energy solutions representative commented, "We’re excited to partner with Michael to provide his family with a comprehensive solar-plus-battery system. This system will effectively power his home and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. The efficient panels are built to last, ensuring the family enjoys the benefits of solar energy for years to come." This initiative underscores Phelps' dedication to sustainability and his commitment to creating a better future for the next generation.

In a significant advancement for clean energy, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed House Bill 5028, removing homeowners’ associations (HOAs) restrictions on solar panel installations. Sponsored by state Representative Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton), this bill nullifies HOA provisions that previously hindered the installation, maintenance, or operation of solar panels on residential properties. House Bill 5028 is a key component of Governor Whitmer’s vision for a 100% clean energy standard and supports the broader objectives of the Clean Energy & Jobs Act. By eliminating barriers to energy-efficient home improvements, the legislation aims to help Michigan achieve its goal of becoming a national leader in renewable energy and sustainability. “With this new law, we are enabling homeowners to install solar panels and make other energy-saving updates without unnecessary obstacles,” stated Representative Puri. “Michigan residents should have the freedom to reduce their energy consumption, save money, and contribute to a healthier environment.” The passage of this law is anticipated to positively impact both the economy and the environment. By facilitating more solar panel installations, Michigan is expected to see growth in clean energy jobs and a reduction in carbon emissions, reinforcing the state's commitment to sustainable practices. Homeowners like Sarah Johnson of Canton express relief and excitement over the new law. “We’ve been eager to install solar panels but were previously blocked by our HOA’s rules. Now, we can finally make the switch to solar and help promote a greener Michigan,” she shared. As Michigan continues to advance its clean energy initiatives, House Bill 5028 marks a crucial step in the state’s journey towards environmental sustainability and energy independence. This legislation not only supports homeowners in reducing their energy costs but also underscores Michigan’s leadership in the renewable energy sector.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has announced the allocation of $18.9 million in grants to streamline the residential solar permitting process across 334 cities and counties. This initiative aims to accelerate solar panel installations, reduce costs, and support California's clean energy goals. Currently, only about 10% of properties in California utilize solar energy, and the state is determined to significantly increase this number. Outdated and slow permitting processes have been a major obstacle, often causing delays and increased costs that deter property owners from pursuing solar projects. The California Automated Permit Processing Program (CalAPP), launched in 2022, addresses these challenges by providing grants and technical assistance to automate the permitting process for residential solar and battery systems. This automation allows contractors to receive permits instantly, speeding up installations and reducing costs. The latest round of applications closed on June 30, 2024, and the final recipients were announced in early July. David Hochschild, Chair of the California Energy Commission, stated, "We are excited to distribute funds to over 330 cities and counties, making it easier for residents to adopt solar energy. CalAPP is already making a positive impact on solar installations in California, benefiting residents, building departments, solar businesses, and the environment." To further support faster and cheaper rooftop solar installations, California has passed legislation requiring local governments to automate residential solar and storage permitting by June 30, 2024. The CEC has published compliance status reports for cities and counties online. Laura Deehan, State Director for Environment California, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "Every rooftop without solar is a missed opportunity to combat climate change, reduce energy costs, strengthen our grid, and transition to fully electric neighborhoods. We need to remove red tape at building departments to facilitate the transition to solar." Cities and counties can automate solar permitting using free software from the federal Department of Energy called SolarAPP+, software from Silicon Valley tech company Symbium, or custom solutions. SolarAPP+, developed by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in collaboration with industry and building safety officials, is the most commonly adopted platform. It meets California’s automated permitting requirements and has significantly reduced permitting timelines, saving 15,400 hours of staff time on solar permitting projects in 2023. The grants and support provided by CalAPP are expected to remove barriers to solar adoption, leading to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for California.

Enphase Energy has begun shipping its IQ8 Commercial Microinverters, now manufactured in the United States thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Designed for 208-V commercial solar installations, these microinverters simplify installation, enhance energy capture, and offer detailed per-panel monitoring. Compatible with solar panels up to 640 W, they are suitable for small- and medium-sized businesses. Gailan Wensil-Strow, director of solar operations at American Design and Build LTD, praised the move, highlighting the benefits of supporting the American economy. The Enphase Energy System includes the new IQ Gateway Commercial 2 for internet connectivity, over-the-air updates, and comprehensive monitoring via the Enphase App. Ron Swenson, senior VP of operations at Enphase Energy, emphasized the advantages of faster delivery times and better service with U.S. production. Distributors in the United States, Canada, and Mexico can now order IQ8 Commercial Microinverters. Enphase will host a launch event at its Arlington, Texas manufacturing facility on July 11 for interested installers and distributors.

In a groundbreaking development, June 2024 saw the successful grid connection of the world’s first large-scale semi-solid-state battery energy storage system in Zhejiang. This 100MW/200MWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) energy storage project is poised to significantly boost the reliability and safety of the power grid in East China. On June 5th, the semi-solid-state battery energy storage station completed its initial testing and was successfully integrated with the grid. This innovative project features four high-performance energy storage converters connected in parallel to a single transformer, achieving a 35kV AC grid-connected output. This setup ensures high efficiency and stability in power transmission. The system has been praised for its superior energy conversion efficiency, excellent grid compatibility, and flexible system configuration. The project can store 200,000 kWh of electricity at one time, with an annual discharge capacity exceeding 60 million kWh. It is expected to save approximately 23,000 tons of standard coal and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 72,000 tons annually. The energy storage station plays a crucial role in managing peak demand and energy storage, significantly contributing to local energy transformation and sustainability efforts. This milestone project not only highlights the potential of semi-solid-state battery technology but also represents a significant step forward in sustainable energy solutions. It paves the way for future advancements in the energy storage industry, showcasing the critical role of innovative technology in achieving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

Power outages are on the rise due to climate change, prompting FEMA and California to fund “resilience hubs” powered by solar and battery systems. These hubs, located in community facilities like schools and libraries, provide essential services such as phone charging and cooling, especially for vulnerable populations. A recent study in Risk Analysis reveals that strategically placed resilience hubs could generate up to 8 GW of solar energy and reduce California’s carbon emissions by 5 million tons annually. The study identified nearly 20,000 potential sites and highlighted the financial viability of solar+battery power in areas with high utility rates and abundant sunshine. Key findings include: Northern California faces winter challenges, while Southern California’s Imperial Valley struggles with summer heat. Candidate resilience hubs could serve 15.8 million people, about 40% of Californians, but accessibility for vulnerable populations needs further study. Solar+battery systems are often financially viable but require additional upfront capital for resilience needs. "Hubs provide year-round services, enhancing community resilience before disasters hit," said Patrick Murphy, a senior scientist involved in the study.

Watts-Willowbrook Church of Christ, known as "The Brook," has installed a 12-kW rooftop solar system and plans to add a battery storage unit. This project, in collaboration with RE-volv and California Interfaith Power & Light (CIPL), promotes clean energy and community resilience in Compton. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Compton Mayor Emma Sharif celebrated the church's leadership in sustainability. The project, supported by a Wells Fargo Foundation grant and RE-volv's solar finance model, is expected to save the church $184,033 in electricity costs over 20 years, aided by the Inflation Reduction Act's Elective Pay provision. The solar installation also provides emergency services, including air filtration and air conditioning during heatwaves. This initiative is part of a broader effort by RE-volv, Interfaith Power & Light (IPL), and Green the Church to bring solar to BIPOC-led Houses of Worship, encouraging clean energy adoption and resilience.

Agrivoltaics Expansion in New York and Rhode Island's Energy Storage Initiative: New York sees a rise in agrivoltaic projects, combining solar panels with agriculture. Rhode Island's new Energy Storage Systems Act aims for 90 MW of energy storage by 2026, supported by financial incentives. DOE and IRS Developments: The U.S. Department of Energy invests $9.5 million to study public attitudes on large-scale solar projects. The IRS finalizes rules under the Inflation Reduction Act for solar project wages and apprenticeships. NYSERDA's Agrivoltaic Funding and New York's Solar Advocacy: NYSERDA offers $5 million for agrivoltaic projects, promoting solar-agriculture integration. The New York Solar Energy Industries Association urges doubling the state’s distributed solar goal to 20 GW by 2035. Massachusetts Senate Advances Renewable Energy Legislation: SB 2829 moves forward to streamline solar permits, boost electric vehicle adoption, and advance renewable energy goals. Texas Launches $500 Million Solar Expansion Act: Governor Greg Abbott introduces a $500 million initiative to add 5,000 MW of solar capacity by 2028, creating jobs and enhancing Texas' renewable energy infrastructure. These updates reflect ongoing efforts nationwide to strengthen solar energy integration and advance sustainable energy solutions.

UL Solutions has launched the UL 9540B Outline of Investigation for Large-Scale Fire Test for Residential Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), enhancing fire safety evaluations specifically for residential settings. This new protocol includes rigorous ignition scenarios and stringent criteria to assess fire propagation behavior, addressing the unique challenges of thermal runaway events in residential BESS. Unlike previous standards focused on larger systems, UL 9540B complements existing UL 9540 and UL 9540A standards, providing a detailed assessment for residential applications. It aims to generate comprehensive fire data to assist fire officials, rather than replacing UL 9540A compliance testing. "UL Solutions listened to fire service concerns and developed a balanced test solution for safer, cost-effective residential BESS," said Robert Marshall, deputy chief of San Mateo Consolidated Fire Protection District. Milan Dotlich, VP and GM of UL Solutions Energy and Industrial Automation group, emphasized the company's commitment to safety in the energy transition. "UL 9540B demonstrates our dedication to providing effective safety resources for the renewable energy shift," Dotlich remarked. This new standard is a vital step in ensuring the safe deployment of residential BESS, aligning with the growing demand for renewable energy solutions.