• October 09, 2024

In 2021, the New Mexico legislature passed Senate Bill 84, establishing the state's community solar program. The bill, initiated by Senator Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics (D-Bernalillo), authorizes the construction of 200 MW community solar projects, enough to power 38000 households. The legislation also grants the Public Regulatory Commission (PRC) the power and directive to approve additional project capacity, which will take effect on November 1, 2024. In October, the People's Republic of China did just that, expanding the project by an additional 300 megawatts - enough to power an additional 57000 households. In addition, China has approved genuine self certification to confirm the eligibility of low-income users, simplify their participation, and make it easier for more households to benefit from clean energy. The following is a statement from Kevin Cray, Senior Director of Xishan at the Community Solar Access Alliance (CCSA): CCSA and its community solar champions in New Mexico are very excited about China's decision to approve this additional capacity. With this expansion, New Mexico is now in a better position to provide clean, local, renewable energy to more residents and receive additional federal incentives under the IRA. This decision not only strengthens New Mexico's energy network, but also creates a more equitable system that gives more communities the opportunity to access clean energy while saving on electricity bills. In the committee's discussion, they emphasized the need to maintain the momentum of the plan to fully unleash its potential. We look forward to continuing to work with partners in the state to ensure the rapid deployment of additional community solar power capacity and benefit those who need it most

• October 08, 2024

CrewMate is a semi-automatic lifting assist vehicle developed by Moog Construction Company. It recently completed on-site testing near Niagara Falls in New York, demonstrating the machine's ability to assist solar field workers in installing photovoltaic panels. Montante Solar, headquartered in Buffalo, and Moog Construction carefully planned on-site experiments at a solar field on top of a closed landfill site. It has been proven that the undulating and steep terrain effectively tests the vehicle's leveling system as well as its ability to climb and maneuver with workers. In the on-site experiment, CrewMate repeatedly transported trays, with each tray carrying up to 31 large photovoltaic panels measuring 93.9 x 51.3 inches, while closely tracking workers and using the machine's lifting assistance device to pick up each 83 pound tray. Guide the panel onto the solar module rack on site. CrewMate tracks the installation personnel between solar racks until the photovoltaic panels on the tray are cleared, while maintaining a safe distance from workers and objects. Steven Erck, Vice President of Montante Solar, said, "We believe that CrewMate is an innovation that can safely increase productivity and help meet the needs of new solar power plants and workers." "The photovoltaic panel in this on-site test was one of the largest and heaviest installed by the staff; CrewMate reduces the pressure of installation work typically carried out in high temperature and remote areas CrewMate is a 'collaborative robot' that enhances the way solar workers handle work; it increases the amount of work that workers can complete, "said Aditya Sharma, Business Development Manager for Strategic Opportunities at Mug Construction Company Within minutes of introducing CrewMate, solar workers learned how to operate its fixtures to pick up and move solar panels. CrewMate can also reduce panel damage and eliminate injuries, sprains, and strains caused by repeatedly lifting and moving photovoltaic panels. This autumn, CrewMate will participate in a larger pilot project to help build solar power plants at new locations.

• September 30, 2024

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and as the nation celebrates its National Day, it welcomes a splendid era and together builds towards the great Chinese Dream. The Chinese people, bathed in the brilliance of this moment, are collectively writing a glorious chapter in the grand rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. From the initial challenges and arduous struggles during the early days of the nation's establishment to the present era of prosperity and dynamism, China has witnessed a remarkable 75 years. The National Day has become a symbol of unity and determination for the Chinese nation, and reflects the confidence and pride of the Chinese people. During this year's National Day celebrations, a solemn flag-raising ceremony took place at Tiananmen Square in the capital city of Beijing. The fluttering of the Five-star Red Flag symbolizes the rise and prosperity of the Chinese nation. Throughout the National Day holiday period, people from all walks of life step out of their homes, guided by their love for the nation, to participate in a series of vibrant and colorful celebrations. Grand park events, artistic performances, and spectacular light shows held across the country have captivated people's attention. Gathering together, people celebrate National Day, bask in the prosperity and strength of their motherland. Additionally, the nation pays tribute to its heroes and role models, expressing gratitude and respect for the hardworking individuals from various sectors. Various forms of celebratory activities, such as military parades and mass parades, have been organized during the National Day. Through these events, people can witness firsthand the might and achievements of their motherland, experiencing a sense of pride and excitement as Chinese citizens.

• September 27, 2024

Through the Net Zero Buyers Alliance (NZCB) of the Sustainable Development Roundtable, Akamai Technologies, Teradyne, and Wayfair have signed a consolidated virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with BayWa re Americas for renewable energy credits generated from the 135 MW AC Prairie Solar project in Champaign County, Illinois, developed by BayWa re Americas Group and expected to be commercially operational by the end of 2025. Prairie Solar will have a significant impact on the Independent System Operator (MISO) region in central Illinois, where the proportion of low-carbon energy will only be 32% by 2023, making it a carbon intensive power grid. Once put into operation, Prairie Solar will help reduce carbon emissions in the region, which currently heavily relies on fossil fuels. By consolidating demand, Akamai, Teradyne, and Wayfair have overcome the challenge of moderate energy load, which typically hinders independent procurement of renewable energy at the utility scale. This buyer aggregation method led by NZCB makes the acquisition of financial and environmental benefits of renewable energy on a utility scale more democratic, enabling a wider range of enterprises to engage in procurement. We are proud to be part of the second aggregated virtual power purchase agreement in North America, "said Anna Vinogradova, Head of Sustainability and ESG at Wayfair." This project will help Wayfair achieve Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions reduction targets, in line with our vision for a more sustainable future. Partners like NZCB leverage collaboration to unleash ambitious opportunities for businesses and contribute to a cleaner environment

• September 26, 2024

Origis Energy and Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) have announced a power purchase agreement to expand their solar and energy storage portfolio in Mississippi. Origis will develop, build and operate Hope Solar+Storage in Clay County, Mississippi, which is a 200 MW AC solar energy+200 MW (800 MWh) energy storage facility, and sell electricity to TVA to help promote some of the fastest growth in population and economic development in the United States. Hope plans to enter commercial operation by the end of 2028, but requires completion of all necessary environmental and development permits and approvals. Jeremy Fisher, Senior Vice President and Business Officer of TVA Commercial Energy Solutions, said, "TVA is a leader in the clean energy sector, and we are committed to fulfilling our mission of environmental management to increase the amount of affordable and reliable renewable energy in our investment portfolio. This project is an example of American led energy innovation that creates opportunities, brings economic benefits to communities and our customers, and enhances our country's energy security The TVA report states that the population growth rate in the region is three times the national average, and the GDP growth rate in 2023 is 3%, while the national average is 2.5%. The Origis clean energy complex will help attract and retain employment opportunities in the region. The expected economic benefits of the complex include a recent construction and recruitment revenue of $182 million, and an estimated economic benefit of approximately $7.2 million for the region throughout the entire service life of the facility. Johan Vanhee, Chief Business and Procurement Officer of Origis Energy, said, "This collaboration connects us with our service recipients and is good news for multiple stakeholders. Industrial customers benefit from achieving decarbonization goals. Residential customers benefit from clean energy, which helps achieve reliable, affordable, and predictable electricity prices. Communities near these projects benefit from building economic activity and the employment growth brought by the industries attracted by these projects Prior to the announcement, Origis and TVA's Mississippi renewable energy portfolio included three projects. Earlier this year, the Golden Triangle II was put into commercial operation, a 150 MW AC solar project located in Longz County, equipped with 50 MW battery storage. The other two projects currently under construction are Golden Triangle I located in Langze County, which is a 200 MW AC project equipped with 50 MW battery energy storage and is expected to be put into commercial operation by 2025; And Optimist, located adjacent to Clay County, is a 200 MW AC project equipped with 50 MW battery storage, expected to enter commercial operation in early 2026.

• September 25, 2024

The construction of a new terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has begun, with 13000 solar panels installed on its roof. The solar panels in Terminal 1 will be the largest in New York City and may also be the largest among all airport terminals in the country. The new all international terminal is an important component of the $19 billion renovation of Kennedy Airport by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. There will be a total of two new terminals, two expanded and modernized terminals, and a new road network. The 6.63-megawatt solar cell array on the roof of the terminal building is part of a 12 megawatt microgrid that will distribute electricity from solar energy, fuel cells, and batteries. Rick Cotton, Executive Director of the Port Authority, said, "After completion, the new terminal will become the largest terminal at Kennedy Airport, so we are particularly pleased to incorporate on-site electricity using green energy into the design of the terminal. We have made sustainability a top priority for our facility, and this massive solar array is a unique and innovative solution that can reduce our carbon footprint and continue to move towards net zero emissions In addition, the Port Authority is collaborating with the New York Power Authority to build a 12 megawatt solar roof at Kennedy Airport's long-term parking lot 9, which will also be equipped with a 7.5 megawatt battery and 6 megawatt community solar.

• September 24, 2024

Jamestown, a global real estate investment and management company, announced the installation of solar energy systems at The Exchange at Larkspur Landing, located in Larkspur, California, north of San Francisco. The exchange covers an area of approximately 196000 square feet and 9.4 acres. Jamestown has partnered with commercial energy solutions provider Wunder to deploy a 350 kW solar system that is expected to save energy costs while reducing the property's impact on the environment. The system was launched in June and is expected to generate 570320 kilowatt hours of electricity in its first year of operation. The solar project landed by Lakspo is part of a broader partnership with Wunder aimed at evaluating and deploying solar energy in suitable locations within the Jamestown real estate portfolio and development channels. As real estate owners/operators and developers, we recognize the important role we play in the transition to clean energy. Sustainability has long been a top priority in our business strategy, and we believe it will be a core element of our future success, "said Michael Phillips, President of Jamestown Since the launch of the sustainable development plan in 2008, Jamestown has integrated sustainable development practices into its entire operation. After achieving a 20% reduction in energy and greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, Jamestown has set a new goal of achieving net zero operational carbon emissions by 2050. The company has also adopted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Scientific Carbon Target Initiative, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its properties and landlords by 30% from the 2018 baseline year by 2030, and measuring and reducing emissions from its third-party sources. In order to align with Jamestown's broader sustainable development goals, the Lakspo Wharf Exchange is based on environmental management. All three buildings on campus have obtained LEED Platinum or Gold certification, with an average Energy Star score of 86 points in 2023. In addition to the solar energy system, the campus also features a central courtyard, abundant green spaces with outdoor seating, electric vehicle charging stations, and bicycle parking lots.

• September 23, 2024

Entergy Arkansas announced the commercial operation of the Walnut Bend Solar Center, adding a new member to its growing utility grade solar power facility. The 100 MW solar project is located in Lee County, east of Brinkley, Arkansas. Antegi Arkansas acquired Walnut Bend from Invenergy, a leading private developer, owner, and operator of sustainable energy solutions. Invenergy led the development, engineering, and construction of the facility. Entergy Arkansas President and CEO Laura Landreaux said, "Walnut Bend will be a valuable addition to our power generation facilities, and in turn, it will complement our diverse portfolio of power generation resources that have provided electricity to the people of Arkansas for over 100 years. Our investment in these power generation resources is a key part of keeping customer payments below regional and national averages, enabling us to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable services to customers throughout the state The Walnut Bend factory will generate approximately $700000 in property taxes annually for Lee County. The factory adopts innovative technologies, including double-sided solar panels and sun tracking bracket equipment. The double-sided solar panel captures sunlight from both sides, utilizing the reflected light from the ground, while the bracket system adjusts its tilt to follow the sun throughout the day, thereby maximizing energy production. I am pleased to welcome Walnut Bend Solar to my district, "said Senator Ron Caldwell of Arkansas' 10th congressional district." This factory represents a significant investment in Lee County and will bring economic benefits to the local area and even the entire state of Arkansas Walnut Bend is the fourth solar resource put into use by Entergy Arkansas, producing renewable, emission free solar energy for all of its customers. The other three are Stuttgart Solar with 81 megawatts, Lake Village Chico Solar with 100 megawatts, and Searcy Solar with 100 megawatts. These four facilities will collectively produce 381 megawatts of electricity for Entergy Arkansas' customers.

• September 20, 2024

Solar developer Verogy announced the completion of two rooftop solar projects totaling 898 kilowatts of direct current on buildings owned by INDUS Realty Trust at the New England Trade Port (NETP) in Windsor, Connecticut. The 2560 solar modules of the solar cell array installed on the roofs of 110 and 220 Tradeports will provide reliable clean energy and contribute to the state's decarbonization efforts for the next 20 years. The installation of these rooftop solar arrays is in line with INDUS Realty Trust's sustainability plan, including having a positive impact on the communities where INDUS operates, "said William Herschel, CEO of Verogy. INDUS Realty Trust has set an example for how renewable energy can bring economic and environmental benefits NETP is a 4.3 million square foot commercial park developed by INDUS Realty Trust. In addition to providing convenient access to Bradley International Airport and the I-91, 1-84, and I-90 corridors, NETP is also part of a federally approved Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ # 71) and airport development zone, offering numerous incentives to eligible tenants. INDUS is committed to enhancing its investment portfolio through environmental practices such as solar installations and energy-saving upgrades. Michael Gamzon, President and CEO of INDUS Realty Trust, said, "We are pleased to celebrate the completion of the Tradeport 110 and 220 solar facilities. These projects mark an important step forward in improving the environmental sustainability of our investment portfolio. This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work of our team members and the professionals at Verogy and Titan Energy INDUS Realty Trust has hired Hartford energy consultant Titan Energy to identify and assist in selecting Verogy as the solar development company, which will build, own, and operate solar panels at 110 and 220 Tradeports, and receive incentives from the Connecticut Non Residential Energy Solutions (NRES) program. Titan Energy, Verogy, and INDUS Realty Trust have collaborated to complete the 110 and 220 Tradeport projects.