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Buckhorn Children and Family Services – Rogers Cottage Recovery House, a women’s rehabilitation facility in Perry County, Kentucky, has taken a major step in sustainability by expanding its solar energy system. The facility, which provides critical recovery services for women, recently added a 26.9 kW ground-mount solar array to its existing installation. This expansion brings the total solar capacity to 47.4 kW, significantly increasing the facility’s ability to generate renewable energy and reduce its environmental impact. The expansion was made possible through a collaboration with Everybody Solar, HOMES, and the Mountain Association. With the additional 26.9 kW array, Rogers Cottage will generate an extra 36,724 kWh of clean electricity annually. This move not only helps to cut down on energy costs but also contributes to reducing the shelter’s carbon footprint, aligning with broader environmental sustainability goals. The financial savings from the expanded solar array will be directly reinvested into the facility’s recovery programs. Rogers Cottage offers vital services such as mental health support, life skills training, job preparation, and outdoor activities for women in recovery. The reduction in energy costs allows the facility to enhance these services, providing even more resources to support the participants in their journey to wellness and independence. Billy Smith, CEO of Buckhorn Children & Family Services, expressed the positive impact of the solar expansion on both the environment and the community. “This expansion not only helps us reduce our energy costs but allows us to reinvest in the lives of the women we serve. The savings we achieve will be channeled into enhancing the recovery programs and services that make a real difference.” As more nonprofits embrace renewable energy, the solar expansion at Rogers Cottage stands as an example of how clean energy can create financial sustainability and support critical community services. By reducing operational costs through renewable energy, the facility can continue to prioritize helping women in recovery while contributing to environmental conservation.

Generac Holdings has secured a $50 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as part of the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) program. This initiative, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is designed to enhance the resilience of the U.S. power grid. In collaboration with the California Water Association (CWA), Generac will focus on deploying microgrids with battery storage solutions across 100 water utility sites in California. The project aims to improve grid flexibility, especially during extreme weather events and rising energy demands. The project will prioritize Disadvantaged Communities (DACs), with 59% of its benefits directed towards these areas. These microgrids, supported by distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS), will also function as virtual power plants (VPPs). This technology will ensure reliable backup power for water utilities during times of grid stress, reducing the reliance on traditional fossil-fueled generators. This development is particularly important given California's vulnerability to extreme weather, which has strained its aging power infrastructure in recent years. Additionally, the project is expected to generate economic benefits, including the creation of around 200 construction jobs and numerous direct positions. Local businesses owned by underrepresented groups will also benefit, with about $27 million in contracts allocated to these entities. This initiative not only addresses California's energy resilience but also aligns with the state's long-term clean energy goals, supporting its transition to a more sustainable power infrastructure. By integrating clean energy solutions into critical infrastructure, such as water utilities, Generac is playing a pivotal role in California’s journey toward a more resilient and environmentally friendly power grid. This project is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve air and water quality, and provide cost savings in the long run for both the state and its residents​

Solis USA has expanded its lineup of UL9540-certified energy storage solutions by partnering with Pytes HV Series batteries for the S6 Hybrid Energy Storage Inverter. This certification ensures that the S6 inverter meets high safety and performance standards for both grid-connected and off-grid energy storage systems (ESS). UL9540 certification is critical for validating the safety of energy storage devices, particularly in residential and commercial applications where reliability is essential. The UL 9540 certification includes comprehensive testing for electrical, mechanical, and environmental performance, ensuring that energy storage systems are both safe and effective. With this certification, Solis gives customers the confidence to integrate energy storage solutions that adhere to industry-leading safety standards. The addition of Pytes HV Series batteries further enhances the flexibility and efficiency of Solis’ energy storage offerings, particularly for solar energy storage and emergency backup power. The Pytes HV Series batteries combine a battery pack, high-voltage control box, and battery management system, making them highly versatile. They can be used in homes, businesses, and industrial settings for applications such as peak load reduction, power backup, and solar energy storage. This versatility makes Pytes batteries a powerful addition to Solis’ S6 Hybrid Energy Storage Inverter, offering customers a comprehensive energy solution. In addition to its collaboration with Pytes, Solis’ S6 Hybrid Inverter is UL9540-listed with a variety of other leading battery brands, including LG, BYD, HomeGrid, Fortress Power, Pylontech, Soluna, and Goldenmate. This broad compatibility allows customers to choose from a wide range of batteries to create the most effective and resilient energy system for their specific needs. Solis continues to lead the way in providing flexible, safe, and sustainable energy storage solutions for homes, businesses, and industries.

Public Storage, one of the largest self-storage companies in the U.S., has furthered its commitment to renewable energy by completing solar installations on 14 of its Minnesota properties. These projects, with a combined capacity of 2.28 MW, are part of a broader initiative to install solar energy systems across 1,300 facilities by 2025. The company’s investment in solar power supports its goals to reduce its carbon footprint while lowering operational energy costs. A standout among the Minnesota installations is the 350 kW solar array at the Como St. Paul facility, now the second-largest rooftop solar system in Public Storage’s national portfolio. The new solar systems will help these facilities generate clean energy on-site, reducing their reliance on the traditional energy grid. This move aligns with Public Storage’s long-term sustainability strategy, which aims to enhance both energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness across its properties. New Energy Equity, a company specializing in commercial solar projects, partnered with Public Storage to deliver these installations. Nick Kerwin, Senior Vice President of New Energy Equity’s Commercial and Industrial division, emphasized the importance of the collaboration. According to Kerwin, the solar projects were completed on time and will deliver lasting environmental and economic benefits, helping Public Storage meet its renewable energy targets. Public Storage’s VP of Asset Management, Gareth Thomas, highlighted how these solar projects reflect the company’s broader vision for sustainability. As part of its continued push toward solar energy, Public Storage is looking to scale its renewable energy capabilities across the country. Thomas pointed out that this expansion is not only helping Public Storage achieve its sustainability objectives but also making a positive contribution to the clean energy movement. As the company works to meet its goal of solarizing 1,300 properties by 2025, Public Storage is positioning itself as a leader in adopting renewable energy within the commercial real estate sector. By embracing solar power, Public Storage is setting an example for other companies while reducing environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable future. These solar projects demonstrate how renewable energy can offer both environmental and financial returns for large-scale commercial operations.

Excelsior Energy Capital has partnered with Proximal Energy to launch an advanced AI-powered platform aimed at revolutionizing the management of utility-scale solar and energy storage projects. This multi-year collaboration will focus on enhancing Excelsior’s 2 GWh energy storage portfolio by integrating real-time monitoring and performance optimization through artificial intelligence. The platform is designed to improve overall efficiency while ensuring long-term project sustainability in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector. At the core of this initiative is Proximal Energy’s Agentic Asset Management system, which uses generative AI to support asset managers and operations and maintenance (O&M) providers. This system features digital agents that can instantly access critical project documents, such as warranties, contracts, and technical manuals, allowing them to respond to complex questions in real time. This capability helps asset managers make informed decisions faster, improving response times to operational challenges and minimizing downtime. The digital agents also leverage AI to analyze time-series data, identifying performance issues like outages or equipment underperformance. These insights enable asset managers to calculate key performance indicators (KPIs) and pinpoint areas for improvement. By offering real-time data-driven recommendations, the platform helps users address potential problems before they escalate, thus enhancing the overall performance of energy storage assets. Excelsior Energy Capital views this partnership as a significant step toward advancing its asset management strategy. “Integrating AI allows us to optimize our solar and storage projects like never before, improving operational efficiency while reducing costs,” said Chris Frantz, Partner and Head of Operations at Excelsior Energy Capital. The collaboration is expected to not only enhance asset performance but also reduce operational overhead, further solidifying Excelsior’s position as an industry leader in the renewable energy market. As artificial intelligence continues to transform the energy sector, Excelsior and Proximal’s innovative approach demonstrates the potential of AI to reshape how solar and energy storage assets are managed. This partnership highlights the growing role of technology in streamlining operations, extending asset life, and maximizing value for renewable energy investments.

EDF Renewables has announced plans to incorporate sheep grazing as part of its vegetation management strategy for the Eastern Cottontail Solar Project, a 220-MW facility in Fairfield County, Ohio. This innovative approach, known as agrivoltaics, enables dual land use, allowing both renewable energy generation and agricultural activities. By introducing sheep grazing, EDF aims to manage vegetation around the solar panels while keeping the land productive for farming. The solar project will generate enough electricity to power around 42,000 homes, making it a significant contributor to Ohio's clean energy efforts. By partnering with local shepherds, the initiative will ensure that the land remains agriculturally active, while sheep naturally maintain vegetation without the need for harmful chemicals. This aligns with EDF Renewables' goal of promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Nick Lucania, lead developer for the Eastern Cottontail Solar Project, highlighted the community-driven nature of the decision: “We’ve heard concerns about solar projects taking over farmland. By incorporating sheep grazing, we can continue supporting local farming traditions while advancing renewable energy in Fairfield County.” This approach addresses local concerns about land use, ensuring that the project benefits both the energy sector and the local agricultural community. The project has submitted its commitment to sheep grazing as part of its application with the Ohio Power Siting Board, setting a precedent for future solar developments. This strategy not only preserves farmland but also creates a model for sustainable energy projects that integrate agriculture, offering a win-win solution for renewable energy and farming across the U.S.

Walmart is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to renewable energy by investing in 74 community solar projects across Maryland and Illinois, developed by Solar Landscape. This initiative aims to provide affordable solar energy to local communities, further supporting Walmart's sustainability goals. The rooftop solar projects, currently under construction, are expected to generate nearly 43 megawatts of direct current (MWDC) solar power, sufficient to power over 3,600 homes. Notably, around half of the projects are designed to benefit low- and moderate-income (LMI) households, potentially saving subscribers approximately $1 million annually on their energy bills. This focus on energy savings aligns with Walmart's mission to help customers live better and save money. Frank Palladino, Walmart's Vice President of Renewable Energy Strategy, emphasized that this investment aligns with the company's objectives. He stated, “These community solar projects will enhance grid infrastructure in Maryland and Illinois and expand access to affordable clean energy for thousands of households.” By investing in community solar, Walmart aims to make a meaningful impact on local communities. Strategically located on commercial rooftops in densely populated areas known as load pockets, these solar projects will enhance the electrical grid's capacity while minimizing the need for additional transmission infrastructure. This approach promotes equity in the clean energy transition, ensuring that more households can access sustainable energy solutions. As the projects progress toward completion, Walmart and Solar Landscape plan to explore further investments and collaborative opportunities in the community solar sector. This partnership not only aims to increase access to solar energy but also reinforces their shared vision for a sustainable energy future, making solar more accessible and affordable nationwide.

GM Energy has launched its PowerBank energy storage system across all 50 states, expanding access to its advanced stationary energy solutions. Available in 10.6 kWh and 17.7 kWh options, the GM Energy PowerBank can be used with electric vehicle (EV) chargers or as a standalone system, giving homeowners greater control over their energy use. A key feature of the GM Energy PowerBank is its modularity, allowing customers to easily add it to existing setups, including GM's Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) Enablement Kit and PowerShift charger. This flexibility helps homeowners manage power outages, integrate renewable energy like solar, and reduce energy costs. “We’re committed to providing customers with adaptable energy solutions,” said Wade Sheffer, GM Energy’s vice president. “By combining our modular tools with one of the largest selections of vehicle-to-home-capable EVs, we offer a complete solution for energy management.” For those interested in combining the PowerBank with solar energy, GM Energy has partnered with Qmerit, a leading solar installation service, to assist customers with site assessments, compatibility checks, and personalized quotes. The entire system, including solar setups, can be managed through GM's mobile apps, offering users a simple, integrated way to track and control their energy consumption. As demand for resilient and renewable home energy systems grows, the nationwide launch of GM Energy’s PowerBank positions the company as a major player in the home energy market, helping homeowners maximize energy efficiency and enhance sustainability.

Ashtrom Renewable Energy has officially launched its Tierra Bonita solar project in Texas, achieving operational status ahead of schedule. This significant development comes just three years after the company's founding, marking a key milestone in the renewable energy sector. The Tierra Bonita project spans approximately 2,200 acres and boasts a capacity of 306 MWAC. The early commencement of commercial operations underscores Ashtrom's commitment to delivering large-scale renewable energy solutions. CEO Yitsik Mermelstein expressed excitement over the project's launch, stating, "This accomplishment showcases our ability to execute substantial renewable energy projects while promoting sustainable development." The Tierra Bonita project includes a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with CPS Energy for 60% of its electricity output, amounting to 180 MWAC over a 20-year period. The remaining energy produced will be sold on the open market, allowing Ashtrom Renewable Energy to enhance its financial performance and market presence. In addition to its operational achievements, Ashtrom Renewable Energy is leveraging the Inflation Reduction Act to maximize the project's benefits. The company has secured agreements for the sale and transfer of production tax credits, further strengthening the financial and environmental impact of the Tierra Bonita project. With the launch of the Tierra Bonita solar project, Ashtrom Renewable Energy positions itself as a key player in the renewable energy landscape. This initiative contributes to the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions across the United States, reinforcing the company's dedication to innovation and growth in the renewable sector.

Snake Tray has launched the Solar Snake Max, a cutting-edge cable management system designed for messenger wires in solar energy applications. Complying with NEC 310.15 regulations, this system optimizes cable separation for enhanced operational efficiency. The Solar Snake Max can increase energy output by up to 30 watt-hours per meter, outperforming traditional trenched or bundled cables. Its above-ground design eliminates cable derating, simplifying both installation and maintenance while accommodating various cable sizes up to 1,250 Kcmil. A standout feature is the tool-free assembly, allowing components to snap together easily, reducing setup time and eliminating the need for specialized equipment. This user-friendly approach makes it accessible for diverse solar project needs. By introducing the Solar Snake Max, Snake Tray addresses the growing demand for efficient cable management solutions in the renewable energy sector. This innovative system promises enhanced performance and energy production for solar installations. For more details, visit Snake Tray’s website.