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The U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision to overturn the Chevron Doctrine in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo is generating legal uncertainty for the renewable energy sector and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This ruling reverses a 1984 precedent that granted federal agencies like the EPA the authority to interpret ambiguous laws, now empowering courts to make these determinations. As a result, environmental regulations governing emissions and renewable energy projects may face significant challenges. Legal experts are particularly concerned about how this ruling could affect environmental rules under the EPA’s jurisdiction. Regulations that limit greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel pollution may now be subject to scrutiny in court, creating potential risks for the renewable energy industry. Additionally, stakeholders are questioning whether provisions in the IRA will be affected, despite their clearer definitions by Congress. One area likely to see legal scrutiny is the Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit (45V). Experts like Eli Hinckley from Baker Botts highlight that the complexities surrounding this tax credit could lead to disputes over the Treasury Department's regulations. Stakeholders might argue that these regulations are inadequate, creating further room for judicial interpretation and challenge. As uncertainty grows, renewable energy investors may hesitate to commit to projects, fearing the implications of the Loper Bright decision. While the Chevron Doctrine’s reversal does not invalidate existing laws, it opens the door to potential legal battles that could disrupt environmental regulations and delay clean energy initiatives. This period of ambiguity could impact the U.S.'s efforts to transition to renewable energy and achieve climate goals set by the Biden administration through the IRA.

The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) has announced a significant expansion of its community solar program, adding 300 MW to the initiative. This increase will enable the program to power an estimated 57,000 additional homes, enhancing access to renewable energy across the state. The expansion comes as part of ongoing efforts to promote sustainable energy solutions and support community empowerment. Initially established through Senate Bill 84 in 2021, New Mexico's community solar program aimed to facilitate the deployment of clean energy resources. With this latest expansion, the PRC seeks to create a more equitable energy landscape by providing low-income households with easier access to solar energy. A key feature of this expansion is the introduction of true self-attestation for low-income subscribers, streamlining the eligibility verification process and encouraging greater participation. Senator Elizabeth “Liz” Stefanics (D-Bernalillo), a strong advocate for the program, expressed her satisfaction with the PRC's decision. She emphasized the importance of expanding clean energy access to support communities in reducing their electricity costs. The senator’s continued support highlights the growing recognition of renewable energy as a vital component of the state’s economic and environmental strategy. Kevin Cray, Senior Director at the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA), praised the PRC’s expansion, stating, “This decision not only strengthens New Mexico’s energy grid but also opens the door for more communities to benefit from clean energy.” His comments reflect a broader consensus among stakeholders that expanding the community solar program can lead to significant cost savings and increased energy resilience for residents. As New Mexico positions itself as a leader in community solar initiatives, this expansion also allows the state to capitalize on federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). By fostering collaboration with state partners, the PRC aims to ensure the rapid deployment of this new capacity, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for all New Mexicans.

Clearway Energy Group has started construction on the Pine Forest solar and energy storage project in Hopkins County, Texas. This large-scale renewable energy development includes a 300-MW solar farm paired with a 200-MW standalone energy storage system. Together, they will provide enough clean electricity to power over 90,000 homes. The energy storage system is designed to store excess solar power and release it during times of high demand, improving grid reliability and flexibility in the region. The $665 million project is backed by a consortium of international banks, including Société Générale, KeyBanc Capital Markets, and Lloyds Bank Plc. This strong financial support demonstrates confidence in the project's role in advancing Texas' renewable energy landscape. The Pine Forest project will not only help meet local energy demands but also enhance the state’s overall grid stability. Corporate partners like Dell Technologies and Universal Corporation have signed long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) with Clearway Energy. Dell's agreement supports its goal to source 75% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and 100% by 2040, a key part of its sustainability strategy. Universal’s VPPA will allow it to offset all its U.S. electricity consumption with renewable energy, helping the company meet its emissions reduction target ahead of schedule. In addition to environmental benefits, the Pine Forest project will bring significant economic gains to the local community. The project is expected to create 350 construction jobs and generate millions of dollars in local investment, including more than $58 million in property tax revenue over the next 20 years. Several permanent jobs will also be created to manage the facility once it becomes operational in 2025. As the Pine Forest solar and storage project progresses, Clearway Energy is also exploring opportunities to transfer clean energy tax credits, which could further promote corporate investment in renewable energy solutions. This project positions Texas as a leader in clean energy, helping to meet growing demand for sustainable power while creating jobs and supporting the state’s economy.

Moog Construction has introduced a groundbreaking solution for solar farm installations with its semi-autonomous lift-assist vehicle, CrewMate. Recently, CrewMate successfully completed a field trial near Niagara Falls, New York, showcasing its potential to transform how solar workers install photovoltaic (PV) panels. This innovative "cobot" (collaborative robot) is designed to ease the physical burden of lifting and positioning large PV panels, enhancing efficiency and safety on job sites. During the trial, conducted in partnership with Buffalo-based Montante Solar, CrewMate demonstrated its ability to handle challenging terrain, including steep and uneven ground. The vehicle carried pallets loaded with 83-lb PV panels across the solar field, assisting workers in lifting and positioning the panels on module racks. CrewMate's leveling system ensured smooth movement, even in difficult conditions, while keeping a safe distance from workers and other objects, minimizing potential accidents. Steven Erck, Vice President of Montante Solar, highlighted the significance of CrewMate’s capabilities. “CrewMate provides a safer, more efficient way to handle some of the heaviest and largest solar panels on the market,” Erck said. “It’s a game-changer, especially in extreme temperatures and remote areas where solar projects are often built.” Workers quickly adapted to using CrewMate’s gripper system, allowing them to install panels faster with less physical strain, reducing the risk of injuries like sprains or strains. Aditya Sharma, Business Development Manager at Moog Construction, emphasized the role of CrewMate in improving both productivity and worker safety. “CrewMate allows solar teams to achieve more with less effort, addressing the demand for new solar farms without sacrificing safety,” Sharma said. The lift-assist technology also helps prevent costly panel breakages, further enhancing its appeal to solar companies looking to increase efficiency. Following the success of this trial, CrewMate is set for a larger pilot project this fall, where it will be deployed on a new solar farm. As the renewable energy industry continues to expand, innovations like CrewMate are expected to play a crucial role in scaling solar projects and ensuring the safety of workers. With the increasing demand for solar energy, semi-autonomous technology may hold the key to meeting installation challenges while improving operational efficiency.

Ameresco, a leading provider of energy solutions, has completed Utah’s first floating solar array in partnership with Mountain Regional Water Special Service District and D3Energy. The 587.5-kW floating solar system is located on a pond at the Signal Hill Water Treatment Plant and was designed to reduce energy costs while advancing sustainability. This project represents a significant milestone for renewable energy in the state, using water surfaces to generate clean power without consuming valuable land resources. The project received a $400,000 grant from Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky Award program and is expected to offset 92% of the treatment plant’s energy consumption. By reducing energy costs by 80%, the floating solar system enhances the economic feasibility of renewable energy for local communities. This innovative approach demonstrates how underutilized spaces, such as water surfaces, can be effectively used to generate renewable energy. Lou Maltezos, executive vice president of Ameresco, emphasized the potential of floating solar technology. “This project breaks away from the traditional idea that solar panels must be installed on land. By thinking creatively, we can unlock new possibilities for sustainability and energy efficiency,” he said. The floating solar installation serves as a model for future projects looking to minimize land impact while maximizing energy output. Chris Braun, chief technology officer of Mountain Regional, praised the installation as a key step in achieving the district’s goal of 'Net-Zero' energy. “This floating solar project utilizes a resource we hadn't previously considered, helping us meet both environmental goals and operational cost reductions,” Braun stated. The project reflects the district’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible environmental stewardship. Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky program, which has supported over 216 renewable energy projects since 2006, continues to drive sustainable development in the West. With the completion of Utah’s first floating solar project, the state is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy innovation, paving the way for similar projects in other regions. The installation highlights the growing importance of creative solutions in addressing energy needs while protecting natural resources.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced new import duties on aluminum solar racking and other aluminum products from 14 countries, including China, India, Mexico, and South Korea. The decision, made on September 30, 2024, targets aluminum extrusions that were found to be dumped into the U.S. market at unfairly low prices, violating trade regulations. Key products impacted by these duties include aluminum solar panel racking systems, solar tracker assemblies, and components used in electric vehicle battery trays and charging stations. These items will now face antidumping duties ranging from 2.02% to 376.85%, along with countervailing duties between 1.44% and 168.81%. The ruling does not affect aluminum framing on imported solar panels, providing some relief for solar module manufacturers. However, the new tariffs are expected to influence the cost of solar energy infrastructure in the U.S., potentially increasing project expenses in the growing renewable energy sector. This trade action was driven by the U.S. Aluminum Extruders Coalition, which claimed that illegal dumping practices harmed domestic producers. Robert DeFrancesco, trade counsel for the coalition, welcomed the decision, calling it a crucial step in protecting the U.S. aluminum industry. A final determination from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) is expected in November 2024, which could lead to further changes in the imposed duties. The Commerce Department will also review the duties in 2025, potentially increasing rates and enforcing retroactive penalties for U.S. importers. As the U.S. pushes forward with renewable energy projects, these new import duties could impact solar racking prices and alter supply chains, influencing the future of solar installations across the country. Industry experts are closely watching how this decision will shape the cost of solar energy infrastructure in the coming months.

DTE Energy has successfully completed three new solar projects in Michigan, further advancing the state's clean energy goals. The Fish Creek, Mission Road, and Little Trout Solar Parks, which are now fully operational, were funded through the company's CleanVision MIGreenPower program. These solar parks represent a major step toward DTE’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and aligning with Michigan’s renewable energy standard of 60% by 2035. The projects will add a combined 800 MW of renewable energy, enough to power over 220,000 homes across the state. These developments were made possible through the support of nearly 100,000 residential and 1,900 business customers who voluntarily enrolled in the MIGreenPower program. By joining, these customers help fund clean energy projects that contribute directly to expanding Michigan's renewable energy portfolio. DTE Energy’s renewable projects are a reflection of increasing public demand for sustainable energy solutions, which is accelerating the transition to cleaner energy in Michigan. DTE’s Vice President of Renewable Energy Development, Joe Musallam, expressed excitement about the progress. “These new solar parks are a testament to our commitment to growing Michigan’s renewable energy infrastructure and meeting the state’s ambitious goals,” he said. With these projects now online, DTE Energy is building on this momentum and planning additional renewable developments to further expand clean energy access for its customers. In addition to residential customers, corporations like DENSO, a global automotive supplier, are leveraging the MIGreenPower program to meet their sustainability targets. Denise Carlson, VP of DENSO’s North America Production Innovation Center, highlighted the benefits of the program. “Our participation in MIGreenPower allows us to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner energy future in Michigan,” she noted, emphasizing the role of businesses in supporting clean energy growth. Looking ahead, DTE Energy plans to continue its investment in renewable energy through additional solar and wind projects. The company’s ongoing efforts to expand its renewable portfolio are crucial to meeting both customer demand and statewide sustainability targets. With more clean energy projects in the pipeline, Michigan is well-positioned to achieve its renewable energy goals and transition to a more sustainable energy future.

First Solar has officially opened its new 3.5-GW solar panel manufacturing facility in Lawrence County, Alabama, further expanding the company’s U.S. presence in renewable energy production. This $1.1 billion plant is First Solar’s first manufacturing site outside of Ohio and is expected to create 800 jobs, contributing to local economic growth. With this facility, First Solar significantly increases its domestic solar manufacturing capacity, bringing its total U.S. production capability to nearly 11 GW. The company’s innovative thin-film technology, which transforms raw glass into fully finished solar panels in just four hours, is a key feature of the Alabama plant. The factory also uses locally sourced steel, further supporting the regional economy. Mark Widmar, CEO of First Solar, highlighted the importance of the new plant in advancing American energy security. “This facility reflects our commitment to strengthening the U.S. solar supply chain and creating high-quality manufacturing jobs,” said Widmar. In addition to the Alabama factory, First Solar is constructing a second 3.5-GW plant in Louisiana, scheduled to open in 2025. Together, these two facilities will bring the company’s total U.S. capacity to over 14 GW, positioning it as a key player in the nation’s clean energy future. First Solar’s investment in domestic solar production aligns with growing demand for clean energy and supports U.S. efforts to reduce reliance on imported solar panels. The company’s new plant represents a critical step forward in achieving a sustainable energy future. Keywords: First Solar, solar panel factory Alabama, 3.5-GW solar plant, renewable energy, U.S. solar manufacturing, clean energy, American solar panels, solar jobs, energy security, First Solar Alabama plant.

A significant new solar project is set to boost renewable energy in Illinois as Akamai Technologies, Teradyne, and Wayfair partner through a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) to secure renewable energy from the 135-MWAC Prairie Solar project. Developed by BayWa r.e. Americas, this project will contribute to the clean energy transition in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) region, an area heavily reliant on fossil fuels. The Prairie Solar farm, expected to become operational by late 2025, will deliver much-needed renewable energy to Illinois. The MISO region, which generated only 32% of its energy from low-carbon sources in 2023, will benefit from Prairie Solar’s contribution to reducing carbon emissions and improving sustainability. This project is part of the Net Zero Consortium for Buyers (NZCB) initiative, which allows companies to pool their energy demand and access large-scale renewable energy projects. This approach makes it easier for companies like Akamai, Teradyne, and Wayfair to achieve their sustainability goals and lower carbon footprints. "We are thrilled to support our carbon reduction goals through this innovative VPPA," said Anna Vinogradova, head of sustainability and ESG at Wayfair. "Collaborating with other companies allows us to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future." The Prairie Solar project represents a growing trend in corporate renewable energy procurement, showing how collaborative efforts can drive large-scale clean energy adoption, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Interplay Learning has launched two new online training programs, Clean Energy and Solar, to address the growing demand for skills in the renewable energy sector. As green jobs continue to increase—up 50% since 2019, according to Lightcast and WorkingNation—these programs aim to equip learners with the knowledge and certifications needed to thrive in this expanding industry. The Clean Energy and Solar Academies offer comprehensive training to prepare students for entry-level jobs. Participants can also earn industry-recognized credentials, including the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Credential, through Interplay’s partnership with CareerSafe. These certifications make learners more competitive in the workforce, addressing the skills gap in clean energy sectors. One of the key innovations introduced in this update is SAM (Skill Advisor and Mentor), an AI-powered teaching assistant integrated into Interplay’s Academy platform. Unlike traditional AI tools, SAM takes an interactive approach to learning by asking questions and offering context rather than simply providing answers. This helps learners develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making the learning experience more engaging and effective. “With the launch of our Clean Energy and Solar Academies, we’re expanding access to in-demand careers,” said Doug Donovan, CEO of Interplay Learning. “SAM enhances the learning process by offering personalized support, helping students gain practical skills and improve their career readiness.” By adding Clean Energy and Solar programs, along with the innovative AI-driven assistant SAM, Interplay Learning continues to position itself as a leading solution for online workforce training in the trades. These new offerings aim to make career-focused education more accessible and effective in the growing clean energy industry.