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Sundrenched News is journalism that delivers the latest solar news and renewable energy innovation pertaining to climate change, social justice, and shifting the world from dirty energy to clean energy.
Saturday, December 29, 2018
How Freedom Forever Became One of the Top Solar Energy Companies
Managing a #solar #energy company today is unlike operating a traditional business or utility company. Due to the many challenges and rapidly accelerating developments that occur monthly in the solar energy field, businesses in this sector must have leaders on staff that know how to navigate accelerated growth and continual advancements. Those currently successful in the solar energy industry have a strong background in business, but also the flexibility to grow a company as the field continues to change rapidly.
One particular solar energy company known as Freedom Forever is an excellent example of integrating sound business management with creativity in order to handle rapid changes and growth in the field. Freedom Forever and their staff are all too familiar with the challenges that come about when working in business management. CEO of Freedom Forever, Brett Bouchy, with his former experience as a private equity executive for Arena Football League, is well versed in management and organization. His business sense and leadership style has grown nearly as much as the solar industry itself, making him the perfect fit for this ever-growing solar company.
Leading and Serving the Solar Industry
In a recent interview with Chief Executive, Bouchy detailed the personal leadership philosophies he adheres to in order to maintain Freedom Forever’s position in the solar energy industry. As the revenue for Freedom Forever has doubled every year since 2017, Bouchy has stuck to two primary processes in order to help perpetuate this growth in the solar field. Primarily, he believes working as a team is the best way to help the company flourish. He shies away from embodying the traditional CEO or head manager stereotypes. Instead of telling his team what to do, he works with them to solve problems unique to their role in the solar industry. He deeply values the idea that, “the best way to lead is to serve everyone around you,” and it is from this perspective that Freedom Forever has become such a positive entity in the solar energy field.
His second focus is on standardization. This is primarily because standardized processes will allow Freedom Forever to maintain consistency. When Bouchy first joined Freedom Forever back in 2015, he was taken aback by the lack of processes surrounding cash flows and general customer relationship management. These are especially critical for solar energy and solar utility management companies and some of the first processes he implemented.
Focus on Employee Well-Being
Another secret to this solar energy company’s success is focus on employee morale. Freedom Forever is unlike any other solar energy business. Located right in their building, will find a 6,000 square foot space known as the Fun Room. Filled with 60 retro arcade-style video games, ping-pong tables, and foosball tables, here employees can take a mid-day break to truly relax and have fun. Bouchy expressed that it is important to him that he knows his employees enjoy their time while they are there.
It is truly remarkable that Bouchy has been able to enter into the solar energy field for the first time in his career and establish processes in Freedom Forever’s financial and customer management systems that work efficiently, build rapport with Freedom Forever’s solar energy customers and associated solar utility networks, and grow the company beyond expectation. Additionally, Bouchy has been able to create a culture within a solar energy company unseen by any other competitor. The focus on practical, effective business strategy, as well as knowing how to keep customers and employees happy, has created the perfect environment for Freedom Forever to thrive.
Serving Solar Energy Customers
Freedom Forever helps solar energy customers find ways to lower their utility bills through solar energy utility investments. Their dedication behind-the-scenes allows them to help solar utility customers in the best possible ways. They primarily help solar energy customers manage and take advantage of tax credits. Freedom Forever also works with their customers to help them choose the best possible solar utility investments, as well as providing exceptional warranties. Saving their customers money, as well as creating a positive experience with solar energy, are goals all solar energy companies should aspire to achieve.
Resources
https://chiefexecutive.net/freedom-forever-ceo-brett-bouchy-talks-solar-energy-success/
Flexible Solar Panels Being Used for Search and Rescue Vehicles
A #solar #energy technology provider in California known as Sunflare has made headlines recently due to the creation of their innovative solar panels and the flexibility their panels provide. Sunflare has been working closely with the King County Search and Rescue team in Bellevue, Washington this past year. Their primary mission has been to place solar panels on search and rescue vehicles and test the efficiency of the solar panels in a wilderness setting. Initial tests for the solar panels have been done using a former Swiss Army Pinzgauer vehicle. The electronics inside the interior of the vehicle will be powered using the solar panels, as well. Prior to the solar panels being used to power such vehicles, the electronics and vehicle itself were powered via gasoline.
How the Panels Work
Sunflare’s solar panels are flexible, light, thin, and precisely engineered to produce the best possible reliability and performance. The solar panels are known as copper gallium indium diselenide solar panels, or CIGS for short. These solar panels can be placed on different surfaces such as plastic, glass, steel and aluminum. Compared to traditional silicon solar cell panels, CIGS solar panels are more efficient.
CIGS solar panels do not require the same maintenance or procedures that traditional solar panels do. There is no need to mount the solar panels or frame them and no glass or silicon purification processes are needed for the panels to work. Additionally, traditional silicon solar cells are made from grains melted down from high temperatures, whereas gallium is a by-product of mining other metals.
Sunflare’s Mission in the Solar Energy Field
Getting the CIGS solar technology perfected took over a decade. It was not until recently in the last two years that Sunflare was able to mass produce CIGS solar panels and offer this technology on a larger, commercial scale. For their search and rescue vehicles, Sunflare placed ten 12-cell panels on the rooftop within a stainless-steel frame. If the team were to have placed traditional solar panels to the rooftop of the vehicle, nearly 100 pounds of extra weight would be added. With Sunflare’s panels, however, the vehicle only carries an additional 22 pounds. According to Sunflares’s CEO, Phillip Gao, traditional silicon solar panels would not just add extra weight, they would not last long in the rugged terrain required to be searched by rescuers.
Branden”Ben” Powell, a volunteer for King Country Search and Rescue and operator of one of Sunflare’s solar-powered vehicles, mentioned to Forbes.com this winter that having the vehicle has made his experiences much more positive. He remarked that the solar-powered vehicle is quieter and cleaner than other vehicles he has used in the past for rescue missions. He also stated that the vehicle adds new positivity to the work that he already does. Powell is thrilled to be able to help individuals and families return home safely and in the most efficient way possible.
Luckily, most of those who go missing are found within 24-hours. Having a solar-powered vehicle this efficient may just enable rescuers to reach those who need it most even faster. The most common kinds of calls Powell receives for search and rescue missions include finding and assisting injured or lost hikers, finding missing children that may have wondered of, working with authorities to investigate crime scenes, and helping with aircraft crash recovery.
Sunflare’s Other Innovative Projects
In addition to their incredible and admirable work with Washington search and rescue teams, Sunflare has multiple goals in sight for how they plan to continue to excel in the solar realm. Their solar energy solutions are primarily targeted at helping businesses implement this kind of technology. Business owners who want to take advantage of CIGS solar technology have hired Sunflare to help them make the switch from traditional utility to solar technology. Sunflare has also worked with RV companies and recreational boat manufactures to use their solar energy technology for other kinds of transportation. Sunflare also has covered parking solutions where they can place their solar panels on existing covered parking structures. Many businesses are opting for covered parking solar panel installations due to the money and space it saves.
To find out more about Sunflare visit their website here: http://bit.ly/2EUM5HF
Resources
How Freedom Forever Became One of the Top Solar Energy Companies
via Sundrenched News http://bit.ly/2Sp2FmQ
Friday, December 28, 2018
Even on Darkest Days, Solar Power Lights Up Duluth
#Solar power is becoming a popular source of clean #energy across the globe, but some worry about how it would work in places that see a lot of days without much sunlight. Nonetheless, out in #Duluth, even on the darkest day of the year, power bills are decreasing thanks to the usage of solar power. Read on to learn exactly how this is happening in #Minnesota.
Solar is Within Reach
Tom Griffin is one person enjoying a reduced electric bill in Minnesota. Below his home in Duluth is an impressive solar array. Duluth averages 185 overcast or cloudy days each year. Additionally, on the Winter Solstice, there is an average of just under seven and a half hours less sunshine than on the Summer Solstice. Nonetheless, solar power is within reach.
Paul Helstrom is the lead for the renewable energy program at #Minnesota Power. He says that even on cloudy days, they are producing at least a small amount of energy. According to Helstrom, roughly 100 customers in the Duluth area have a solar array on their property. There are an additional 150 customers in the greater coverage area of the utility and 98 customers who purchase into the community solar program. Helstrom refers to solar as a phenomenal energy source, and discussed how affordability has changed a lot over the years.
Solar: A Price Worth Paying
As for #Tom Griffin, his 5-kilowatt system (before incentives and rebates) was in the ballpark of $25,000 – this is more than the average homeowner would spend on a solar array – but his electric bill shows just how worth it everything has been. Going solar has reduced his power consumption from the grid a great deal. He was told going solar had the potential to drop the amount of power used by approximately 50 percent.
Griffin was not purely motivated by money in his decision to go solar – he had a career in renewable energy and wanted to make positive changes in his life for the planet. In order to set up his solar array, rock had to be scraped down, anchors had to be drilled, and there was a great deal of engineering involved. The secret to having power even when the sun is not shining is to feed surplus electrons to the grid, and not to only rely on the solar array with a battery. This technique is a very environmentally-friendly approach to solar. How? Because electricity that can’t be stored is not wasted.
There are continuous improvements being made with regard to technology, making having a home solar system tied to the grid beneficial during the Winter Solstice. Helstrom discussed how using solar is allowing people to do things “better than plants” – this is because typical panels are converting roughly 18 percent, meaning 18 percent of photons are being converted into functional electricity. The numbers for photosynthesis come in at roughly 2 percent.
Even though solar system costs fall in the range of $15,000 to a little over $20,000, incentives and rebates can cut the upfront price in half. Moreover, there are other options available, such as buying into community solar projects. There is currently a wait list for a local solar garden.
Continuous Solar Changes for Minnesota
According to a report released recently, “Solar Pathways” from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, the state of Minnesota could generate a large percentage of its electricity from solar and wind by the year 2050 – 70 percent, to be exact. This would be huge, and absolutely worth talking about. Clearly, the state of Minnesota is on a very positive solar path.
Solar is truly becoming a more popular source of energy all across the planet. It is fascinating to learn about the latest projects coming up. The creativity and drive people have to better our planet is palpable, and the changes being made are remarkable. Continue to follow solar news to stay on top of the latest developments – and pay attention to the solar changes coming to your area!
Sources:
https://finance-commerce.com/2018/12/sustainable-batteries-bolster-solar-in-a-first-for-minnesota/
Thursday, December 20, 2018
MIT Study Explains Why Solar Power Costs Have Declined Dramatically
The reasons to use #solar #energy as the number one source for utility production worldwide are numerous, but as solar power develops, one particular perk continues to make solar power even more appealing year after year. Cost for solar power installation over the past four decades has dropped by nearly 99 percent. The reasons for this dramatic drop in cost have not been entirely clear, until now. Researchers at MIT, with support from the U.S. Department of Energy, set out to find what accounts for the declining costs of solar energy and renewable energy utility.
Low-Level and High-Level Solar Mechanism Impacts Evaluated
MIT researchers looked at solar power technology from two primary perspectives in order to understand the reasoning behind the decline in costs. The first focus was on low-level factors, with the second on high-level factors. Associate professor and researcher on the project at MIT, Jessika Trancik, noted in a write-up about their findings on solar power that low-level mechanisms deal with the psychical solar energy products themselves. They would include any sort of costs associated with the processes of solar power production and manufacturing. For example, as technology has developed, solar cells have increased their efficiency in converting sunlight into usable energy. As the efficiency of solar panels has increased, their costs have decreased. High-level mechanisms of solar power production include research and development, as well as economic influence. Examples of high-level factors would include larger factories or solar production, along with their ability to cut down on defective solar cells during production.
The Key Role of Government Policy in Reduction of Solar Costs
In identifying these mechanisms, MIT was able to determine a few necessary components that lead to the decline of solar power costs over the past several decades. Their researchers were able to pinpoint the cause of the savings as being rooted not just in the acceleration of technology, but in government policy. It has only been through governments’ willingness to invest in and form policy around solar technology that has given solar power the room to advance technologically. MIT found that it has been government participation has been a dominant factor in reducing costs and these findings bring to light possibilities for how solar energy can continue to take off worldwide.
According to Trancik, any policy put in place that stimulated market growth, was responsible for around 60 percent of the solar energy cost decline. Trancik noted that these findings play a critical role in the current debate about whether or not solar energy policies actually work. Based on their research, it is clear that government policy and global markets play a role in the reduction of costs. MIT researched stated that various subsidies, feed-in tariffs, and renewable standards were most helpful in the overall reduction of solar energy costs.
The overall implications of the study exemplify the importance of government policy in the implementation of solar power, as well the role governments play in keeping costs low and on the decline. Additionally, the report highlights the need to continually improve solar production processes and manufacturing components of solar and renewable energy.
Solar Energy Policy in the Hands of the Government
Government policy undoubtedly plays a role in solar energy costs, production, and the overall future of renewable and solar energy technologies. Advocates for solar energy can take from these findings a renewed sense of encouragement, as many government leaders worldwide are already jumping on board with solar technology for their own cities, states, and regions. The findings here will also encourage, if not incentivize government leaders, to support solar energy on a larger scale if they have not already. Essentially, by supporting advancement in solar technology, as well as implementing policies that push for the use of solar energy, government officials can reduce costs overall, help provide more reliable and cleaner energy for their citizens, and support a more sustainable energy future for all of us.
Resources:
https://news.mit.edu/2018/explaining-dropping-solar-cost-1120
https://www.sciencealert.com/here-are-the-wonderful-reasons-why-solar-is-cheaper-than-ever
MIT Study Explains Why Solar Power Costs Have Declined Dramatically
via Sundrenched News https://ift.tt/2T5Pqrn
Monday, December 17, 2018
Lund University Researchers Making Solar Panels from Iron to Increase Efficiency and Decrease Costs
#Solar #energy is being buzzed about in nearly every city in the United States, not to mention worldwide, as solar energy leaders and scientists push to find more efficient solar utility methods every year. Down to their very molecular structures, scientists are looking at various components in natural metals in order to determine if a cheaper and more effective method of solar energy can be extracted using such materials.
The latest material and its molecules to be examined for solar energy production is iron. Lund University in Sweden has been working on a solar energy project involving iron molecules and has since stumbled upon some impressive results thanks to their dedicated research.
How Iron Benefits to Solar Energy
Traditional solar cells are often made of various types of metals, sometimes referred to as metal complexes. These metal complexes within solar cells act to absorb solar energy rays, as well as utilize the energy stored. Metals such as iridium, osmium, and ruthenium, for example, are often used for solar cell production and while there is nothing inherently wrong with such metals for solar cells, they are fairly rare and also quite expensive.
This is why the breakthrough with the iron molecule is so pertinent. Researchers at Lund University are hopeful that based on their findings, the iron molecule, in time, may be able to replace these more expensive metals currently used in solar cell production and other solar-based utilities.
Professor of Chemistry, Kenneth Warnmark and his colleagues, have been studying various metals with the intent to replace the standard metals used for solar cell production for quite some time now. Warnmark stated in an interview with Solar Daily that the results of their research show that it will be possible to use iron to replace these more expensive metals, thanks to the advanced molecule design. Additionally, because iron is so common on Earth’s crust, access to the material for solar energy production will not only be far easier, but much more cost-effective compared to former metals typically favored for solar panels. In fact, in the Earth’s crust, iron has a six percent prevalence and is easy to obtain.
Lasting Impacts by Bringing Iron into Solar Energy Production
Researchers at Lund University are now moving forward with studies that will test the development of a new, iron-based molecule to be used for solar cells. Their primary focus has been and will be on optimizing the iron-based solar cells by working with the very molecular structure of iron atoms, according to Petter Persson, a fellow colleague on the project.
This new innovation and the continued tests that will be performed to perfect the use of iron in solar cell production will likely have lasting impacts and contribute to the trend of decreasing costs for solar and renewable energy overall in the coming years. Lund researchers are encouraged overall that they have been able to achieve such tangible and important results so quickly through their exploration and use of iron molecules with the intent to improve solar energy cells. Within a span of just five years, the team at Lund was able to achieve the desired results they had originally set out for when examining the properties of iron molecules. Warnmark mentioned that he believed the entire process of achieving what they have thus far would have taken, “at least ten years.” Their findings offer a promising glimpse into the future of solar energy, as well as open the doors for new technology to be developed that can utilize similar techniques in the field of solar energy and otherwise.
About Lund University
Lund University was founded in Sweden in 1666. It is regarded as one of the world’s top universities, with around 7,400 staff members and over 40,000 students across their various campus locations. The university primarily advocates for understanding, explaining, and improving the human condition, with major focuses on economics, law, medicine, science, fine arts, humanities, and social sciences. Lund University is also home to two of the world’s most widely renowned research facilities, the MAX IV which was founded in 2016, and the ESS which will open for evolutionary neutron research in 2023.
Resources
https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about/about-lund-university
California Requiring Solar Panels on All Newly Built Homes by 2020
Earlier this month it was announced that the state of California will now require any homes built in 2020 and after to be outfitted with #solar panels. In a historic move, the Building Standards Commission for the state voted in an unanimous decision to add this new provision to California’s already strict solar and renewable #energy goals. Requiring all new homes in 2020 and beyond to be solar-powered is a mandate not yet seen before by any other state or organization in the United States. This is just another move in a series of steps California has taken in order to become a primary leader in solar energy utility production in the nation.
Solar Options for Homeowners
Beginning in 2020, homebuyers in California and those building homes in the state will have several options for implementing solar panels. Homeowners can decide to buy the solar panels upfront at cost, lease the solar panels, or enter into something known as a power purchase agreement with solar developers. Power purchase agreements are common among solar energy providers and the customers they serve. Typically, a power purchase agreement, or an electricity power agreement as it is sometimes called, will outline certain legal conditions between a customer and their solar energy service provider. Most often, non-profit organizations and other similar entities may be able to take advantage of these types of solar energy contracts in order to help reduce the cost of the solar panels overall. Additionally, homeowners may also be able to take advantage of community solar panels, instead of having to install solar panels separately to each individual home.
Solar Cost Savings Over time
Executive Director for the Building Standards Commission, Drew Bohan, mentioned in an interview with National Public Radio that the addition of these panels to homes in the state will save individual homeowners upwards of $19,000 over the time span of a 30-year mortgage. These savings, thanks to the solar panels, will ultimately offset the initial building and construction costs of rooftop solar panels, according to Bohan. The solar panels for new homes may add an additional $10,000 in construction costs for homes up front, but the Building Standards Commission and other California officials are confident that this investment in solar energy panels is ultimately worth it and will balance out, especially as lower energy bills over time add up in savings.
Addressing Real Estate Market Cost Impacts
Earlier this month, a public hearing was held where various concerns were addressed in regard to this new solar energy provision. Many wondered how it might affect the already pricey housing market. Additionally, especially in wake of the recent fires that have devastated portions of California, some questioned if solar panels becoming a requirement might hinder those in the rebuilding process due to additional and newly mandated costs. Cost savings overtime and the long-term impacts solar panels will have for homeowners over the lifespan of their homes have state and energy officials sure that this is ultimately the best possible move for the state, residents, and the housing market as a whole. Officials are determined to work together with real estate developers, industry groups, and local communities in order to help keep costs low.
Working Towards the Bigger Picture
Overall, support for the implementation of solar panels for new homes by 2020 has been largely supported and celebrated by environmental leaders, solar energy companies, and other renewable utility advocacy groups. This unprecedented and bold mandate will be positive for the state of California and its residents overall, as well as set a standard for other states to follow in the future.
California has proven time and time again in recent years that solar energy utility and renewable energy are at the top of the priority list. The state’s position as a leader and example in the solar energy realm only continues to grow with each passing season. These new solar energy provisions, which require solar panels for new homes, are just a small part of a larger picture for the state of California when it comes to solar energy. These and other requirements are intended to push California closer to their ultimate goal of establishing 100 percent renewable utility by the year 2045.
Resources:
https://ift.tt/2RGGGaR
https://ift.tt/2rmGrGf
Solar Could Become Most Affordable Form of Energy in U.k.
In the British Isles, the price to generate #solar electricity has dropped below previous predictions. By the year 2030, solar costs could be in the ballpark of $50USD/MWh.
Thanks to changes made with certain policies, the #Solar Trade Association (STA) has modified its evaluation of solar’s #LCOE (levelized cost of electricity), or the price of electricity per unit over the lifespan of a project. The solar market in the U.K. is gearing up to see some changes in the year 2019 after a recent period of inactivity. Basically, industry expectations for the year 2019 have already been defied because of technology, and solar is on the path to becoming the least expensive source of #energy in the U.K.
This is a huge step in a positive direction.
Beating Solar Expectations
Regardless of policy complications, a report printed by Solar Trade Association claims that solar’s levelized cost of electricity has dropped more rapidly than was predicted back in 2014. Policy complications include the extension of tariffs on solar imports, and a surge of taxes on solar generation. Clearly, solar costs are still dropping as the solar power market continues to be on a fast-track to some serious growth.
Nicholas Gall, policy analyst for Solar Trade Association, discussed how the solar power market is outpacing official cost estimates, and that the hope is to see revitalization in terms of the solar market in the U.K. He wants decision-makers to comprehend how policy contexts which are effective can permit lower costs for solar. This, of course, is a perk for consumers.
Solar Costs Are Falling
Back in 2014, Solar Trade Association predicted the LCOE for solar to fall around GBP 80/MWh. However, the latest report estimates solar’s LCOE will fall between GBP 50 and GBP 60/MWh in 2019. This, of course, would make solar very competitive with onshore wind and gas. The previous estimates were made based on the assumed elimination of tariffs and continuous steadiness with regard to financial and policy support.
Solar Trade Association believes that with the right policies, by the year 2030, solar generation could see costs as low as GBP 40. STA is calling on the government to bring together policies – including supporting the commercial sector through a climate change tariff exemption for clean energy obtained from a corporate power purchase arrangement, technology neutral auctions, and restructuring rules for network access.
As per Chris Hewett, Solar Trade Association Chief Executive, there is a strong message for corporate energy buyers and government – that solar electricity is reasonable in comparison to fossil fuels in terms of costs. Moreover, by having the right policies in place for solar and storage, technology could reach its full potential with the help of the government, in delivering an inexpensive, low carbon energy system.
Solar has already attained costs lower than $30/MWh in high isolation rate markets, and although costs in Europe are still slightly higher than this, there is a great deal of potential for these cost reductions to endure. In the majority of the world’s major economies, according to BloombergNEF, wind and solar are the cheapest energy sources.
Price Drops, Huge Projects and Big Goals
A study was recently released regarding obtaining 100 percent renewables by 2050 in Europe, and in accordance with this study, it is predicted that LCOE’s are expected to decrease substantially in Europe by the year 2050. What could these price drops lead to? Well, for one, they could lead to large-scale PV projects becoming as competitive as onshore wind power and gas turbines. Maintenance and operations costs are also dropping, and solar equipment is being built to last longer. Panel degradation is slower than formerly believed, too, as conversion efficiency is dropping.
All of this is good news for those interested in saving money on their electric bills, enjoying a healthier planet, and making the world a cleaner, better place. Using clean, renewable energy is so important, which is why places all across the planet are making the decision to make moves in this direction. Keep following solar news to stay on top of changes happening across the globe – there are great things to come!
Sources:
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2018/12/12/solar-could-soon-be-uks-cheapest-source-of-energy/
https://www.power-technology.com/news/uk-solar-power-sta/
Monday, December 10, 2018
Rhode Island Building Solar Plants on Top of Former Landfills
CME #Energy, Hectate Energy, and many other supports in the area are bringing this innovation of #solar plants on landfills to life. This is the second solar energy landfill project to be completed in a series of projects knowns as the Forbes Street Solar Project II (FSSPII). This second solar landfill project will be nearly identical to the first solar energy project, capable of generating 3 megawatts of photovoltaic energy and producing around 5.35 gigawatts hours of electricity per year. Based on the project’s location and the size of the solar plant altogether, this second solar energy project in the series for Rhode Island will produce enough energy to service up to 500 households in the area.
The first solar landfill project was completed around 5 years ago in conjunction with Narragansett Electric Company, and was placed on top of a capped and abandoned landfill, which was in service up until 1979. Both Hectate and CME believed in repurposing the landfill site for a more productive use. These initial unifying goals led to the partnership between CME and Hectate and the continual involvement they have had as a unit in establishing newer, cleaner and more efficient ways of utilizing property and optimizing existing structure for solar energy construction purposes.
The Power of the CME and Hecate Energy Partnership
Preston Shultz, Hecate Energy’s development director told Solar Energy World last month that he is proud to be a part of a team that is using the latest in solar energy expertise and innovation to help solve the environmental and energy problems that have sprung from the consistent use of traditional utility sources in the past decades. Shultz continued on, stating that this latest solar energy project is just another proud addition to their portfolio solution-based projects, in which they are helping to advance solar energy implementation across the country.
Additionally, CME is humbled to partner with Hecate to help bring the solar energy landfill projects to life. William Martin, President of CME Energy, mentioned several important factors that make FSSPII so influential for Rhode Island energy utility, but also for solar energy innovation as a whole. For one, the solar energy landfill project offers a brand new renewable and clean energy source via solar utility for consumers and customers in the region. Second, using a former landfill, a property which constitutes few other uses, offers a way to revitalize a space that in other circumstances may be deemed useless. Next, solar energy landfill projects offer a brand-new revenue stream for the city and state economies. Lastly, the solar project helps protect our environment, not only by reusing natual land space but with mechanisms that will ultimately help the planet heal.
Recognized for Their Innovation in the Solar Community
Grow Smart Rhode Island recognized FSSPII as an outstanding Smart Growth Project, being described as a solar utility innovation that offers a primary example of maintaining environmental integrity while also implementing new solar energy utilities and resources. Additionally, the Forbes Street Solar project, the first of its kind in the series, built back in 2015, received a Clean Energy Future Award, along with being named best renewable energy project in the state of Rhode Island.
Even Carol Grant, Rhode Island state energy commissioner, expressed her confidence in the project and the smart use of former spaces for more productive means, like solar utility. She believes the work that CME and Hecate Energy are doing with landfills is an example for other solar utility and renewable energy companies to follow. Recyling former landfills to be made into solar energy production sites is essentially a win-win or the environment. Grant also is encouraged by the progression and implementation of the solar energy landfill projects, as they are in conjunction with helping Rhode Island reach their goal to grow clean and renewable energy supply in the state ten-fold by 2020.
Resources
https://ift.tt/2QI2OnT
https://ift.tt/2Patgl9
Second Biggest Solar Array in Long Island Is Coming Online
In #Long Island, NY, the former #Tallgrass Golf Course in Shoreham is about to go solar. Toward the end of November, it was announced by a Duke #Energy subsidiary that a 24.9 megawatt #solar array is getting ready to launch in the most recent wave of comprehensive solar energy projects. The focus on renewable energy is clearly becoming more and more popular, and this is very exciting news!
What’s Happening?
This massive #solar project was sold to Duke Energy in 2017 after being developed by Invenergy. The expectation is that 3,500 homes will be able to be powered by the amount of solar energy produced. There is a 20-year contract with Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) and the cost will be roughly $177 million. Since July, it has been producing power. Shoreham Solar Commons, where the solar project is located, is roughly 60 miles east of Manhattan.
The solar project sits on 150 acres. Another solar project is nearby on 60 acres. Both of these properties were previously owned by DeLalio Sod Farms. Some demonstrated concern regarding home values that might be impacted by the huge field of panels. However, according to people like #Jane Bonner, Brookhaven Town Councilwoman, the solar arrays are a passive use of the property. She stated that tax payments from this solar project are anticipated to go up to $900,000 per year, for the fire departments, local library and primarily for the Shoreham/Wading River school district.
Shoreham Solar Commons
Shoreham Solar Commons is the Invenergy array and it is the second biggest on Long Island. Number one is Brookhaven National Laboratory’s solar farm. However, the title isn’t expected to hold for too long. Why? Because Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) has contracted for numerous other big solar arrays on farmland as well as other plots of land in Riverhead/Calverton. According to Public Service Electric and Gas Company (#PSEG) Long Island’s director of power resources and contract management, Jim Parmalee, one of these solar arrays will be a 36-megawatt project that might be up and running by the year 2020. He anticipates bigger solar projects in the future because of more land becoming available and technology continuing to develop. This makes sense and it is an obvious step in a positive direction for our planet.
More than 50 business, energy and community leaders came out to a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month for the #Shoreham Solar Commons Project. The goal is to provide renewable energy to customers that they can afford. Who doesn’t want to use clean energy in an effort to improve our planet and overall heath, for a price that is budget-friendly?
President of Duke Energy Renewables and Distributed Energy Technology Rob Caldwell expressed excitement over being part of the first large-scale renewables venture in New York State. Caldwell discussed how the solar project is going to deliver environmental and economic benefits alike to both the state of New York and the local community. If this sounds like a concept worth talking about, that’s because it is!
Why Is This Solar Project So Important?
Integrating this massive solar project into the Long Island Electric System offers many benefits. It offers clean energy and assists Long Island in lowering its fossil fuel dependence, according to vice president of power markets, PSEG Long Island’s Paul Napoli. The goal, for the record, is for New York State to achieve 50 percent renewable energy by the year 2030.
Here are the key points to keep in mind: as previously mentioned, this impressive solar project has the ability to generate up to $900,000 in annual tax revenue. The clean energy produced could end up displacing tons of greenhouse gas emissions – think 29,000 tons a year. Close to one million megawatt hours of renewable energy could be produced over its lifetime.
The second largest solar array in Long Island has a lot to offer. Continue following solar news so you can stay in the know regarding the latest developments!
Sources:
https://www.newsday.com/long-island/solar-project-shoreham-1.24380143
Community Solar Programs: Determine the Good Ones
Definition of Community #Solar
Before determining the difference between a good and bad community solar program there is the importance of knowing the definition of community solar. Most often renewable #energy is installed upon an independent building with solar or ground panels, producing the electricity for each individual location first.
The popularity of community solar exists as well, especially among those locations where there are a number of homes or buildings combined where there wouldn’t be convenient access to effective panel installation on the roof or ground. Basically, the community solar program works in the same manner as the fossil fuel and other carbon-based power grids that maintain the electricity of entire cities and regions.
The Need for Community Solar
Solar power is effective for low-cost community energy, and while it may not be completely difficult there is a decent amount of planning that is required. In some communities, buildings do not have the access or enough room for the solar panels to provide energy for all the units included, and other buildings may not have either enough roof-based or ground-based solar accessible space to have panels that will collect enough energy.
Cells including photovoltaics may only fulfill renewable energy needs in part, therefore solar is needed in a much larger capacity. In this way, the need for community solar comes into play. With many nonprofits and other community charities, there has been the growth for the solar programs that provide renewable energy for buildings and units that are not able to do so on their own.
Sometimes corporate buyers even find this out when there is not enough sun-accessible space on their office property for the transfer to solar. With the drop-in cost for both the purchase and installation of solar panels, there is much to gain from the movement to solar. However, without the ability of all buildings to independently install renewable energy there is a need for the current power grids to be replaced by solar in these cases.
With the rise of consumer demand, increasing market, and expanding access for homeowners and renters alike, additionally for shaded properties, there is an added reason for the production of community solar systems. Community solar programs will have financial benefits for those involved as well as other economic improvements in those regions working toward cost-cutting, carbon reductions, and many other improvements.
Preparation and Setup for Community Solar
Well over half the country (36 states) already has community solar moving actively. Much success has been found from those in practice the longest, and there is still a great amount of positive work being done on those in progress for setup and initiation. Both in setting up the community solar program and keeping it running, there are certain steps that have been put into place. These include the following:
- Growth of solar access: Enough PV capacity is required to satisfy the demand, with a focus on guaranteeing low-income customers a decent share.
- Rates should go down: Community solar best practices include bill credits, not premiums. Financing should be paid by the bill, not paying deposits or up-front costs that are not returnable.
- Must be economically beneficial: Programs led by utilities work with scaled economies and strategies that gain land and minimize development costs.
- Consumer experience: Protection should be included, and bills should clearly reflect easy payment. Subscriptions should be transferrable.
- Programs should be competitive: Drive down ratepayer costs, becoming consumer-friendly. Therefore, developers of community solar programs should use local workers and pay the best wages.
- Program optimization for maximum benefit: Place PV projects at locations where community solar provides grid resiliency and community development (i.e. when located at or near a school could be paired with a micro grid working for the school).
- The project must complement existing programs: Community solar projects bring additional renewable elections and pair with other programs benefiting the population including like workforce development, STEM education, and helping low-income households pay utilities.
Advancement of U.S. Solar Programs
American cities are continually growing toward the desire for complete reliance on renewable energy. In this case, community solar programs are becoming more common. While existing community solar is about one gigawatt currently, it is expected to increase to about 50-80 gigawatts within the next decade. This is much to be seen for the potential of solar as it will continue to grow for all of us.
On top of community solar there is also the development of community choice aggregation. In this platform local governments negotiate the purchase of large-scale renewable energy through utility companies. While this is only available in a few states at this time it has the potential to grow into other areas very soon.
In addition, national promotion of solar is growing incredibly even with the White House placing great emphasis on the need for coal in the American economy. Luckily, the number of solar incentives available to taxpayers across the country, the SolSmart program also helps with the adoption of community solar. The Solar Foundation runs this program in an effort to help local governments with solar permitting processes and incredible competition for marketplace growth.
Reference:
https://cleantechnica.com/2018/11/17/how-to-tell-a-good-community-solar-program-from-a-bad-one/
Friday, December 7, 2018
Solar and Wind Production Increasing in Germany
Big changes are happening in #Germany. The country plans on increasing #energy generation from #solar and wind farms by an additional 8 gigawatts (GW) through the year 2021. More specifically, the governing coalition in Germany has approved supplemental tenders to add 4 gigawatts of solar in addition to 4 gigawatts of wind onshore. The government, as it seems, is attempting to make up for its choice to previously abandon firm emissions objectives.
The arrangement was accepted by the Social Democratic Party and Chancellor Angela Merkel’s Union alliance earlier this year. In said agreement, there was a pledge to add 4 gigawatts of solar and an equal amount of onshore wind through special auctions. There is an obvious dedication to going solar and shifting the focus to clean, renewable energy. This is something we are seeing across the globe, and for good reason! But why the change in Germany?
Solar-Friendly Changes and Improvements
What led to this solar-friendly decision? What is changing in this beautiful country? Well, in Germany, power capacity has been increasing over the last few years as it relates to wind and solar by 5 gigawatts per year. And the 8 gigawatt solar and wind increase through 2021 is going to be in addition to these numbers. The fear was that Germany was at risk of missing its 2020 national emissions objective if no additional steps were taken, to some extent due to a higher than anticipated population and robust economic development. Boosting solar energy and clean energy generation overall seems to be a no-brainer.
Note: Government strategies to boost solar/clean energy production were approved by the Bundestag lower house (one of the legislative chambers of the Federal Republic of Germany) toward the end of November.
Perhaps just as exciting, there is a new objective which has been set forth by the government to increase the share of solar and green energy in the country’s consumption of electricity by the year 2030 to 65 percent (which is up from a third this past year).
According to this plan, the solar energy production subsidy will be cut to just under 9 euro cents, down from 11.09 euro cents.
Other Key Changes in Germany Worth Talking About
It is also worth noting that German electric utility, #Greenpeace Energy, planned a takeover bid for power plants and lignite open-cast mines presently belonging to RWE (German electric utilities company). The goal? To shut them down over the course of the next seven years. What would happen to these power plants? They would be replaced with #solar power and wind power plants! Clearly, solar and clean energy are becoming quite popular.
Why the Interest in Solar?
Why the push toward solar? People everywhere are enticed by solar and other clean energy sources for various reasons – one being a desire to save money on their utility bills. They also have an interest in helping the environment. Additionally, many believe that going solar is better for their health. It would be difficult to argue with these concepts. All across the globe, solar power is on the rise. As a matter of fact, according to Trinasolar, experts believe that solar power could become the largest source of electricity in the world by the year 2050. According to the same source, a pair of reports were released by the International Energy Agency representing a map outlining how up to 16 percent of the world’s electricity could be produced by solar PV systems. Moreover, an additional 11 percent of generation could come from solar thermal electricity. Let’s say these numbers are realistic – by the year 2050, this would drop global emissions each year by more than 6 billion tons of carbon dioxide.
The numbers are fantastic. It is great to see countries all across the globe taking advantage of the benefits of clean, green energy like solar power. Think about how clean/solar energy is being used where you live – are you seeing changes take place around you? What could your neighborhood or city do to make a positive difference for our planet? Perhaps others should follow Germany’s lead! Stay in the know by continuing to follow the latest solar news!
Sources:
https://cleantechnica.com/2018/11/30/what-changed-in-the-solar-energy-industry-in-november/
https://www.trinasolar.com/us/resources/blog/why-solar-power-so-popular
Thursday, December 6, 2018
Solar PV Generation on Track to Dominate
Year to date over the course of 2017 to 2018, in accordance with the #Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration, electricity generation from #solar PV grew just under 30 percent. This year, #solar PV has only provided a little more than 2.3 percent of the total electricity produced in America. While development of solar PV generation is slowing down, it is still on track to dominate. Read on for more information on changes to anticipate. Clean #energy is certainly seeing a great deal of popularity in the United States, and it’s easy to see why!
Clean Energy Growth
Solar wasn’t the only form of energy to grow – natural gas expanded by roughly 15 percent from a big base; coal has actually been down just under 5.5 percent; wind happens to be up 14 percent; and nuclear is up a little more than 2 percent. In the first nine months of the year, solar and wind equaled 8.7 percent of all electricity.
Electricity generation would be expected to increase if the United States were to deploy close to an equal amount of solar capacity as it did in 2017, in 2018. Therefore, the progression of overall solar electricity would drop to roughly 22 percent, which would be the lowest rate of growth over the last 10 years. But this doesn’t mean solar won’t continue to be an extremely popular form of energy.
Growth Over Previous Years
How do these #solar growth rates compare to previous years? Take a look…
In 2015 over 2014, rates were roughly 35 percent. In 2016 and 2017 over previous year, the number was 44 percent. From 2019 to 2022, expanded volumes of solar PV are anticipated to be installed. Toward the end of this time frame, rates of solar growth are expected to increase heavily.
A hypothetical analysis has suggested that if solar power were to gradually lessen its growth rate by just 5 percent a year from the 22 percent anticipated slower growth rate for the following year, the solar industry would actually generate roughly 40 percent of today’s electricity usage by the year 2038. Fast forward to the year 2038, and this model would propose a growth rate for solar electricity of 8.8 percent each year, which is roughly a quarter of this year’s anticipated growth rate.
Let’s say in 2020 through 2022 that the volume for solar deployed in 2017 and 2018 doubles. If this ends up being the case, clearly there will be a premature leap in rates of solar growth. While this rate of solar growth would not be quite as high as in 2016 through 2017, there would be no question that progression is still taking place. To put it simply, we would hit 40 percent of total electricity around the year 2027 if this year’s 29 percent solar growth rate stayed the same over the next 10 years. This rate of development would likely be unmanageable.
The numbers can understandably become quite confusing. But to give a better idea of how fast solar PV generation is developing, let’s look at some information provided by #Solar Energy Industries Association (#SEIA). According to seia.org, in Q2 2018, 2.3 GW of solar PV capacity was installed in the United States, which equates to just over 58 GW of total installed capacity, and this is enough to power 11 million homes in America. These numbers are indicative of a 7 percent quarter over quarter decrease and a 9 percent year over year decrease. But also according to Solar Energy Industries Association, over the course of the next five years, total installed solar PV capacity in the United States is expected to at least double. And the expectation is that by the year 2023, more than 14 GW of PV capacity will be installed each year.
The numbers are holding strong, regardless of which way you look at it. Solar PV generation is on track to dominate in the United States. Keep following solar news so you stay in the know regarding new information coming out regarding clean energy.
Sources:
https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2018/11/30/solar-pv-electricity-generation-grows-29/
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Military Acts Out Against White House Position on Renewable Energy for National Security
Again, the battle over maintaining #solar within the American power grid resumes its status as the question for the growth of the job market remains without a solid answer. While the president turns toward the need for coal, it appears that our military has proven otherwise. We have military bases in use of renewable #energy of all forms, even when there are troubling weather conditions around the nation.
With President Trump’s attempt to increase the American coal industry, there have been reduced limitations to environmentally destructive actions like mining and pollution while also trimming the amount of protection for miners. Basically, there is much that has been broadened for the benefit of economic growth while cutting the protection of man in general. However, with the intention of increasing the job market in the mining industry, the intentions have completely been reversed. Utilities have fallen alongside the number of workers that are held in their companies.
Since the presidential administration is desperate to improve the coal industry it has been significantly connecting national security to the funding of coal. It has been presented by the administration that coal-based power is necessary for grid security because cyber-attacks and natural disasters would not affect this form of energy. However, renewable experts have been able to prove that this is far from true. Therefore, in many cases, the military has taken on renewable energy.
Renewable Energy and National Security
With the use of solar power and other renewable sources, the military has taken this step forward in support of national security. It is reported that several military bases are taking steps toward renewable energy to prevent blackouts during events like storms, floods, or cyber-attacks. As any of those pose threats to the existing power grid by basic damage or destruction, there is a greater effective sustainability method for renewable systems.
We already face potential issues that have proven possible in the past, such as the previous suspected Russia hack into the existing grid or the potential for other rivals like China and North Korea to launch cyber-attacks on the existing infrastructure. Therefore, military bases are building grids that work with wind, solar, and batteries that will continue to generate in the event that the existing power grid is demolished.
Existing Renewable Power on Military Bases
Existing military bases where these renewable sources have been put into place include the following:
1. The Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, MS – A 29,000-panel solar system supports the existing power grid. It is owned by a private company that has installed diesel generators and battery storage on the site in exchange for use of the land. Provides power in case of a blackout.
2. Marine Corps Air Station in San Diego, CA – Solar, battery, gas generators, and diesel generators support electricity and can power the base for three weeks if needed.
3. The Otis Air National Guard Base, Cape Cod, MA – The first wind-powered micro grid in the military. It includes one wind turbine, one diesel generator, and battery storage, combined for the potential of up to 120 hours of power if needed. Funded by the state, Massachusetts is working to further fund renewable energy on military bases.
With these military bases at the forefront of a national transition to renewable energy, there is much to be said for the progress being made. We have soldiers in the field using batteries and solar power already, cutting the money spent on defense against attacks. Additionally, with the use of solar and renewables, there is a reduction as targets for the enemy. In their attempt to bomb fuel tanks, creating further danger for soldiers traveling through the field of battle. This means the addition of renewables has slowly added safety in the field. For this reason, there has been a great deal of interest for veterans to pursue careers in the industry upon retiring from active duty.
Therefore, working against what the president and the administration have attempted to present to the nation, the grid has the potential to gain support from solar and other renewable sources. Adding to the strength and life of the grid, there is much to gain from adding solar to national utilities, including the protection from potential disasters and attacks. Luckily, the military is working to prove this, which will likely help to provide growth and development in the long run.
Monday, November 26, 2018
Floating Solar Panels the Best Option for Inclement Weather
This past August, one of the worst floods in decades absolutely devastated Kerala, India and surrounding cities. More than $5 billion in damages were incurred, along with the death of over 480 individuals. Yet, despite such immense loss, a small sliver of hope shown through for India, in the floating #solar panels that remained miraculously unscathed after the flood. Founded on one of the largest reservoirs in the country, floating solar in India is increasingly become more and more utilized in the area and elsewhere, particularly because of the resilience the panels offer during poor weather conditions. For India and other regions that experience inclement and unpredictably extreme weather, floating solar power is becoming more and more widely recognized for its benefits and efficiency.
Growing Interest in Floating Solar Panels
For the last couple of years, floating solar #energy panels have increasingly gained popularity. The benefits of floating solar panels over land-based, traditional solar panels are numerous and more and more countries are considering or actively implementing such technology as clean and renewable becomes more in demand worldwide. The decline in costs overall in the long-run has also contributed to increased interest and implementation of floating solar power.
Even though floating solar power currently costs nearly 18 percent more compared to traditional solar utility, according to experts, these initial start-up costs are offset by lower costs elsewhere. For example, the excavation, remodeling and construction involved with some land solar power projects are avoided when floating solar panels are used instead. The floating solar panels also help offset initial startup costs in the long run by providing 5 percent more electricity once up and running.
In India, in particular, interest in sustainable solar energy has increased thanks to continually decreasing costs of solar energy and concerns over the climate. Sustainability energy has been found in this region and others, thanks to floating solar panels.
Shailesh K. Mishra, director for the Solar Energy Corporation of India, predicts that these floating solar panels are just the beginning for solar energy in India. There are already plans for solar energy to be implemented in the region over the coming years, and the exciting developments surrounding floating solar energy only add to the enthusiasm.
Floating Solar Gaining More and More Popularity
Worldwide, India, Europe, Japan, China, and even the United States are turning towards floating solar panels as the latest solution in renewable and solar energy utility. Floating solar power utility offers all of the same perks and benefits as traditional solar power, with the exception of taking up land space. Because space is often an issue when it comes to certain areas being able to erect solar panels, floating solar is a viable and appealing solution for many regions with available bodies of water nearby.
Concerns over how this new technology might impact existing ecosystems and wildlife are being addressed, particularly when it comes to saltier bodies of water where the panels are more of a challenge to maintain. Due to wildlife and the conditions of the water itself, special care and attention are needed to make sure the floating panels work in harmony with the existing ecosystems. Researchers are confident that the benefits of these floating solar panels will continue to outweigh the benefits. Floating solar panels offer a viable solution for renewable energy for regions that may have adequate sea or ocean space, but lack the necessary land space needed for solar power. It is likely we will see the trend of implementing floating solar panels only increase as larger countries and economies take on this new technology.
Among the countries currently implementing this latest technology, China currently takes the lead for the most floating solar generating capacity according to the World Bank, with more than 1.1 gigawatts of floating solar utility now installed in the area.
Resources:
https://www.voanews.com/a/floating-solar-panels-buoy-access-to-clean-energy-in-asia/4647900.html
https://www.powermag.com/floating-solar-panel-industry-makes-a-splash/
Van Nuys Airport Set to Construct New Solar Energy Projects
On October 25th of this year, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), along with the support of local officials, announced the #solar #energy projects that will be built at Van Nuys Airport, including rooftop solar panels and solar canopies. The plan for Van Nuys Airport will also include a valley sod farm; a ground-mounted solar power system that will be overseen by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The ground-mounted system will be the largest ground-mount solar system ever built for the department, as well as in the entire territory they service in the Los Angeles region. Other corporations set to be a part of helping support the construction of the solar rooftop panels and canopies at Van Nuys Airport include Clay Lacy Aviation, Western Jet Aviations, The Park VNY, Woodley LLC, Castle & Cooke, and other supporters who are eager to see solar aviation take off not just at Van Nuys Airport, but for California as a whole.
Enthusiasm from California Officials
These solar plans to be set forth at Van Nuys Airport are just the beginning. The Los Angeles City Council has several leaders that are encouraged by the advancements that will soon come to Van Nuys Airport and the implications these solar projects will have for the rest of the state, as well as their goals surrounding the use of solar and renewable energy resources.
Tony Cárdenas, Congressman who oversees the Van Nuys district, stated that clean energy and solar power must continue to be supported. Cárdenas went on to say in an article by Aviation Pros that these alternatives are helping to address a much larger problem with the global climate. Hopefully, these efforts will redirect the man-made inventions that have contributed to such climate change in the first place. He is confident that the steps Van Nuys Airport is taking will positively contribute to the environment and that other organizations will follow similar solar plans. His hope is that this solar aviation project and others will ultimately perpetuate the trend of solar power implementation across the state and the world at large.
Nury Martinez, a Los Angeles councilwoman whose district also includes Van Nuys, is focused on the improvements that will come in regard to quality of life in the region, thanks to these solar power improvements. Surrounding areas will see a reduction in CO2 emissions. Additionally, approximately 212,700 pounds of sulfur dioxide and nearly 15,000 pounds of asthma particles will be eliminated from the air every year. Martinez stated that these solar projects are a “huge step forward in making our community green,” and will lead to the further development of even more effective solar energy projects.
LAWA’s Initiatives and Success
Los Angeles World Airports, for the third year in a row has been recognized as a leader and champion in reducing carbon emission levels thanks to their solar power initiatives. Chief Executive Officer of LAWA, Deborah Flint, told Aviation Pros in an interview that she is grateful to extend the projects that harness the power of the sun to Van Nuys airport in order to continue to facilitate a greener future and more environmentally friendly, solar-powered way of life for Los Angeles and California as a whole.
These steps forward for the solar aviation community in Van Nuys have wider implications for not just the state, but for solar power innovation as a whole. Matt Peterson, proponent of the Van Nuys Airport solar projects and CEO and President of the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI), believes that these solar and green energy initiatives ultimately bring together both private and public partnerships in the most effective ways to solve the crisis of climate change. He stated that since no one person can reverse the effects of climate change, it will be up to partnerships like these in the solar sector to address and solve environmental problems. Moving forward, we will likely see more and more corporations join together in solar based and renewable energy projects for the greater good and ultimate restoration of our planet.
Resources
UK Firm Will Develop Four Solar Parks in Southern Spain
#Andalusia’s regional government has granted #Solarcentury, a U.K.-firm, permission to build four #solar parks in a Spanish town called #Alcala de Guadaira. As a point of reference, this is located roughly 17 km southeast of Seville, Spain. Read on for more information on the noteworthy #solar parks being built in southern Spain!
Solarcentury recently made an announcement that the solar projects would have an output of roughly 50 megawatts a piece, and said solar projects would generate enough electricity to power more than 100,000 homes – 105,000 homes, to be exact. The expectation is that construction on the solar parks will begin in April 2019 and will last approximately one year. This sounds as though it will be a fairly speedy solar project, anticipated to make a fairly large impact!
What is Solarcentury?
Solarcentury was founded back in the late 1990s and has a presence in Africa, Europe, and Latin America. To date, the remarkable solar-friendly company has planned and built more than 1 gigawatts (GW) of solar, with an additional 2.4 GW of solar in the works. The numbers essentially speak for themselves – this is a company committed to its solar goals and making a difference for the planet.
Solarcentury’s managing director for Iberia, Jose Miguel Ferrer, described seeing these aforementioned four solar projects as a win-win for the region. Ferrer mentioned that in addition to being able to generate clean renewable #energy/solar energy for thousands of homes, no public subsidies will be used and the solar projects will generate employment, to boot. Of course, the impressive solar projects will be environmentally-friendly, too. It has been demonstrated time and time again that using clean/solar energy is not only healthier for the planet, but it saves money and creates jobs – really, it seems as though going solar is a no-brainer. In many places, it is, in fact, becoming a no-brainer.
Across the globe, there are various sizes in existence when it comes to solar power facilities. China’s Tengger Desert Solar Park, for example, has a capacity of more than 1,500 MW. This just demonstrates the ability to work on different scales and still make a positive difference.
A Transition to Clean Energy
When it comes to the Spanish solar sector, the solar projects by Solarcentury represent the latest clean energy developments. Back in September, in Murcia, Spain, Enel Green Power Espana started constructing an 84.7-megawatt solar photovoltaic facility. It should begin operation later in 2019, and it will consist of 248,000 photovoltaic modules.
It is a great thing that Solarcentury has received the green light from Spain’s community of Andalusia for these solar projects. As previously mentioned, each project will have a capacity of roughly 50 MW. The four projects – Cerrado Cabrera, El primo Aleman, Los Gonzalez, and Hazas de los sesenta photovoltaic projects are going to be built in Alcala de Guadaira municipality.
Major Benefits to Come
The ability to provide enough electricity for more than 100,000 homes is huge. Texla (a Seville-based engineering company) is partnering in the development of the four parks, according to Solarcentury. It is also worth noting that Solarcentury received the Environmental Impact Declaration from Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition. This was for a project in Extremadura.
There are so many developments across the globe that are worth paying attention to. Being able to witness the shift to clean, renewable energy such as solar is truly a wonderful thing. Solarcentury is one of the biggest such companies in the world, and has a goal of working to fight climate change. The company strives to make clean energy more attractive and affordable to customers, and so far, it seems to be succeeding. Impressive changes are coming soon to southern Spain, and they are worth paying attention to.
Continue to follow solar news so you can learn about the latest developments taking place across the planet. Think about how the world could look in the next decade thanks to the advancements being made today. We have come a long way as a planet but still have a long way to go – the steps being taken today will make a big difference for tomorrow!
Sources:
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/21/uk-firm-to-develop-solar-power-in-southern-spain.html
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