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DCE Solar's Eco-Top Rooftop Mounting Structure has earned UL 3741 certification, a critical safety standard that ensures robust photovoltaic hazard controls. This achievement underscores DCE Solar's commitment to advancing safety and efficiency in the solar industry. The Eco-Top mount features an integrated wire management system, which optimizes workspace by eliminating the need for additional wire management raceways and accessories. This innovation streamlines the installation process and reduces clutter, enhancing overall system efficiency. The Eco-Top system's design includes direct racking-to-module frame bolt-through fastening and east-west rail support, which ensure proper roof load distribution and structural connectivity. These features minimize the risk of solar cell microfractures, thus increasing kilowatt-hour production. By enhancing energy yield and efficiency, the Eco-Top system provides significant value to users. Moreover, the system's integrated wire support channel in the North-South rails further simplifies home run wire management and cable support. A notable advantage of the Eco-Top system is its use of fewer mechanical attachments and ballast blocks compared to previous models. This design choice results in significant savings on materials and labor costs. Additionally, the UL 3741 certification eliminates the need for module-level power electronics on arrays, offering further cost benefits. These factors combine to make the Eco-Top system an economically attractive option for solar installations. Bill Taylor, CEO of DCE Solar, expressed his enthusiasm about the certification, stating, “Passing the UL 3741 certification for our Eco-Top Roof-Top solution underscores our dedication to safety, innovation, and efficiency in the solar industry. This certification validates our product's quality and gives our customers confidence in investing in a top-tier, secure solar solution.” As the solar industry continues to evolve, certifications like UL 3741 play a crucial role in setting high standards and ensuring the reliability and safety of photovoltaic systems worldwide.

Stuttgart, Arkansas – Scenic Hill Solar has achieved a significant milestone with the completion and launch of a 1.2-MWDC distributed generation (DG) project in Stuttgart, Arkansas. This project is notable as the first in the world to incorporate First Solar’s new Series 7 TR1 solar panels, underscoring a major advancement in solar technology. The Stuttgart project began operations earlier this year and highlights Scenic Hill Solar’s dedication to advancing solar technology and supporting American manufacturing. Bill Halter, CEO of Scenic Hill Solar, emphasized the importance of this achievement, noting, “This project demonstrates our commitment to American solar manufacturing and technological innovation.” In 2022, Scenic Hill Solar partnered with First Solar and eight other American solar and battery storage manufacturers to launch the American Made, Arkansas Built Initiative. This initiative aims to use Scenic Hill Solar’s projects as testing grounds for new American-made technologies, reinforcing the focus on domestic innovation. Dr. Mounir El Asmar, Head of Strategic Accounts at First Solar, lauded the collaboration: “Working with innovative partners like Scenic Hill Solar is crucial for expanding solar energy use in Arkansas and beyond.” The Series 7 TR1 panels, manufactured in the U.S., are designed for utility-scale applications, enhancing the project’s efficiency. The Stuttgart project also features the Array Technologies DuraTrack single-axis tracking system and involved key partners including Axium Solar for electrical work, DC Solar for mechanical installation, and PMI for civil construction. This landmark project not only demonstrates the potential of American-made solar technology but also sets a new standard for innovation and sustainability in the solar energy sector.

Nexamp has teamed up with Starbucks to bring over 40 MW of new community solar projects to Illinois. This initiative will boost renewable energy, provide cost savings to residents, and create jobs. Highlights: 40 MW Solar Projects: Six new community solar projects will add more than 40 MW of solar capacity to Nexamp’s portfolio in Illinois. Community Benefits: Over 1,100 residents in the ComEd and Ameren utility territories will see significant electricity savings. Job Creation: The construction and operation of these solar farms are expected to create several hundred jobs. Workforce Development: Nexamp’s fellowship programs, in partnership with City Colleges of Chicago, Chicago Urban League, Uplift Community High School, 22C, and other Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) training organizations, will support job training and development. Starbucks’ Role: Starbucks will serve as a long-term renewable electricity purchaser, supporting these projects and reinforcing their commitment to sustainability. Future Expansion: Nexamp and Starbucks plan to expand this community solar program to more locations nationwide. Michael Kobori, Starbucks' chief sustainability officer, stated, "We’re proud to support Nexamp’s efforts to bring community solar into areas where it can have the most impact and make savings opportunities available to community members." Project Timeline Construction of the new solar projects is underway, with completion expected in 2025. This partnership highlights a scalable model for community solar that benefits local communities through clean energy, cost savings, and job creation.

New Mexico has begun accepting applications for the Supplemental New Solar Market Development Tax Credit program. This new initiative is aimed at taxpayers who were denied solar tax credits from 2020 to 2023 due to funding limitations. The program’s director has expressed gratitude to state lawmakers and the governor for their support in creating this supplemental fund. The New Solar Market Development Tax Credit program, established in 2020, offers up to 10% off the cost of installing solar thermal and photovoltaic systems, with a maximum credit of $6,000 per taxpayer per year. Due to funding caps being quickly exhausted in previous years, many applications were rejected. This year, $20 million has been allocated to cover missed applications, and the annual funding cap has been increased to $30 million. Alongside the supplemental credits, applications are also being processed for solar systems installed in 2024. Taxpayers can apply for both the supplemental and 2024 tax credits through the official website. Since its launch, the program has provided tax credits to over 13,000 residents, averaging $3,078 per taxpayer. This has led to annual energy savings of about $1,624 and added more than 100 MW of solar power to the state’s grid, advancing New Mexico’s clean energy goals. For more details and to apply, visit the official website.

Romania aims to expand its energy storage capacity to 2.5 GW by the end of 2025 and 5 GW by 2026, aligning with Transelectrica’s recommendations. Investment and Support The Ministry of Energy, led by Sebastian Burduja, is offering non-refundable grants for mature projects to balance the energy system. Under the national recovery and resilience plan (PNRR), EUR 80 million has been allocated for 1.8 GW of storage capacity. An additional EUR 380 million through the Modernization Fund aims to support 3 GW of new capacity. Recent Developments Earlier this year, Romania sought 240 MW and 480 MWh of storage for renewable energy integration. In April, the country's largest battery storage system (24 MWh) became operational, part of a 216 MW project connected to the Mireasa wind farm (50 MW) with a 35 MW solar plant expected by the end of 2024. Future Outlook Romania’s goal of 5 GW of energy storage by 2026 highlights its commitment to renewable integration and grid stability, positioning itself as a key player in the European energy storage market.

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