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As of May 2024, solar and wind energy have surpassed 20% of the total U.S. electrical generating capacity, according to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Solar energy alone added 10,669 megawatts (MW) this year, and wind added 2,095 MW. Renewables now account for nearly 30% of the U.S. capacity. In 2024, solar has been the largest source of new capacity for nine months, while wind frequently holds the second position. Solar represents 8.78% of the total utility-scale capacity, overtaking hydropower. By mid-2027, solar is expected to make up 14.65% of the total capacity, with renewables collectively reaching 36.10%. FERC forecasts significant growth in renewable capacity over the next three years, with solar leading the way. If these projections hold, renewables could surpass fossil fuels, highlighting a major shift towards sustainable energy sources.

On July 19, 2024, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed House Bill 4876, aiming to boost the state’s solar and energy storage sector. The bill introduces new incentives for deployment, streamlines permitting processes, and improves grid interconnection, addressing key industry challenges. Valessa Souter-Kline of the Solar Energy Industries Association praised the bill for its potential to accelerate clean energy adoption and reduce regulatory barriers. The bill now heads to a conference committee before being presented to Governor Healey. Enacting this bill would help Massachusetts enhance its clean energy capacity and reclaim its leadership in the renewable energy sector. Stay tuned for updates as the bill progresses.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has committed a conditional loan guarantee of up to $861.3 million to Clean Flexible Energy for solar PV and battery storage projects in Puerto Rico. This funding will support the construction of two solar farms and two standalone battery storage systems in Guayama (Jobos) and Salinas. Key Details: Project Marahu: Includes 200 MW of solar PV and 285 MW of battery storage. Energy Output: Expected to generate 460,000 MWh annually, powering about 43,000 homes. Job Creation: Will create 750 construction jobs and over 50 permanent positions. Energy Goals: Aims to replace fossil fuels, enhance grid stability, and contribute to Puerto Rico’s goal of 100% clean energy by 2050. Community Impact: Supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative to benefit disadvantaged communities. Will help reduce Puerto Rico’s high energy costs and replace polluting coal and diesel power. The project is part of broader efforts to modernize Puerto Rico’s energy infrastructure, supported by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and the Puerto Rico Energy Resilience Fund.

OnSight Technology has launched OWL, its cutting-edge rooftop fire and smoke detection system designed to enhance fire safety across diverse facilities, especially those with solar installations. OWL incorporates advanced AI technology to deliver real-time alerts for fire, smoke, and abnormal heat signatures, ensuring swift response and minimizing potential damages. Key features include AI-driven local data processing for rapid detection, high-resolution cameras, and a robust detection system. OWL can be easily installed on a 25-ft non-penetrative pole and operates independently with 4G/LTE connectivity. It supports 120-VAC power with options for battery and solar, ensuring uninterrupted operation. The OWL V2 model features four 16MP cameras with a 100° field of view, covering up to 500 m (200 acres). Users can monitor in real-time via a dedicated dashboard and receive customized alerts via SMS and email. Derek Chase, CEO of OnSight Technology, highlighted OWL's role in advancing fire safety: "OWL represents a significant leap in safety technology for facilities across North America. Our goal is to provide a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-install solution that enhances safety and reduces risks." With OWL, OnSight Technology aims to set new standards in fire safety, empowering facilities to proactively manage fire threats and safeguard lives and property effectively.

Enphase Energy has introduced the CS-100 EV Charger, designed for commercial fleet EVs in the United States. Offering up to 19.2 kW of continuous power, the CS-100 is Enphase’s most powerful Level 2 charging station yet. Key features include customizable charging schedules and smart capabilities via Enphase’s COSMOS interface, enabling digital load management, load sharing, and access control. The charger is UL certified with a NEMA 3R-rated enclosure for durability in indoor and outdoor settings. It supports all J1772-compatible EVs and includes a 25-ft charging cable with a robust J1772 connector. Phil Haupt of Phil Haupt Electric in California highlighted the CS-100's reliability and efficiency for fleet operations, while Dan Lulich from OpConnect Inc. praised its industry-leading power and versatility. Enphase Energy continues to innovate with the CS-100, enhancing efficiency in commercial fleet operations across the U.S

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.