Category Solar Power

New York has become a leader in integrating large-scale battery storage systems into its power grid, aiming to improve grid reliability and help transition to cleaner energy sources. These batteries can store excess electricity generated by renewable sources like wind and solar, delivering it back to the grid during periods of high demand or when renewable generation is low. State officials and energy experts highlight battery storage as a crucial component in New York’s ambitious plan to shift away from fossil fuels, especially as officials seek to address concerns about grid stability amid more extreme weather events.

With newly completed battery sites and more under construction, New York is anticipated to reach a battery storage capacity that would power tens of thousands of homes for several hours. Projects like the one in Long Island showcase cutting-edge technology and a partnership between public and private sectors. Additionally, these developments align with New York’s goal to produce 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, setting an example for other states aiming to modernize their energy infrastructure.

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A recent policy change in Australia is set to significantly increase the amount of solar energy that households can export to the grid. Under new electricity market rules, solar panel owners will be allowed to send much more of their unused solar power back into the national system. This adjustment comes as more homes adopt rooftop solar, addressing concerns that current limits have been stifling renewable energy contributions at the neighborhood level.

The updated regulations aim to optimize the flow of solar power across the network without overloading it, enabling consumers to earn more from their solar investments while supporting a cleaner, more reliable energy system. The change is expected to drive further growth in the solar market, ultimately benefiting both individual households and the broader effort to decarbonize the Australian power grid.

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New installations of U.S. community solar projects dropped by 36% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, following a record-setting 2024. According to a report from Wood Mackenzie, around 563 megawatts were added between January and June, as rising project costs, interconnection challenges, and delays in permitting and siting led to the sharp decline in growth following last year’s surge.

Community solar projects enable residents and businesses without access to rooftop solar to buy power from shared local solar installations, and they benefit from state-level programs supporting clean energy. Analysts note, however, that supply chain and development obstacles—rather than waning demand—were the main factors curbing expansion so far this year. They expect that nationwide growth will pick up in 2026 as federal and state policy incentives take further effect.

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An Arizona couple who chose to live off-grid is challenging the usual misconceptions associated with remote, solar-powered living. Contrary to popular belief, their daily life isn’t filled with hardship or isolation—instead, they enjoy a comfortable and connected lifestyle, complete with modern conveniences powered by their solar panels and batteries. The couple explains that thoughtful planning and the right technology have allowed them to maintain running water, high-speed internet, and a cozy, eco-friendly environment in the desert.

They emphasize that off-grid living doesn’t mean giving up comforts or living primitively. Rather, it’s about self-sufficiency and enjoying the freedom that comes from generating their own energy and relying less on public utilities. This lifestyle, they note, is increasingly accessible thanks to advances in solar power and sustainable housing, giving more people the opportunity to live independently and in closer harmony with nature.

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Despite growing pressure to adopt greener energy, many data centers are struggling to transition away from fossil fuels. While some tech giants have pledged to use clean energy, data centers often rely on local electricity grids, which may not have sufficient renewable sources. The challenge is compounded by the huge and constant power demand of these facilities, making it difficult to guarantee uninterrupted service solely with renewables like solar and wind, which can be intermittent.

Financial and regulatory hurdles also slow the shift to green energy. Companies face complex negotiations with utilities and sometimes higher costs for renewable energy contracts. Additionally, building on-site power infrastructure or securing dedicated renewable sources demands significant investment and long-term planning. As a result, the move to truly sustainable data centers is progressing slowly, even as demand—and scrutiny—continues to grow.

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The White House is shifting away from solar energy as part of its broader strategy to tackle climate change, a notable move given President Biden’s emphasis on clean energy. Instead, the administration is placing greater focus on domestic manufacturing of renewable energy components and expanding power grid infrastructure, aiming to support large-scale clean energy projects and secure U.S. energy independence. Concerns about overreliance on Chinese solar imports and recent trade investigations have added pressure to diversify energy sources and bolster local industry.

This pivot comes amid growing recognition that renewable energy progress in the U.S. faces significant obstacles, including supply chain vulnerabilities and insufficient grid capacity. The administration’s efforts are now increasingly directed toward supporting wind, nuclear, and advancing battery technology, with the hope of creating a more robust and self-reliant clean energy sector. While solar will remain a vital part of America’s green transition, the current focus is on strengthening the foundation for all renewable resources.

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A new pilot program in Arizona is allowing homeowners to use their electric vehicles (EVs) as backup power sources for the electrical grid, marking the first U.S. residential effort of its kind. In collaboration with local utility Salt River Project (SRP), homeowners equipped with bidirectional EV chargers can both charge their cars and send stored energy back to the grid during peak demand times. This initiative aims to leverage the growing number of EVs as a distributed energy resource, helping to stabilize the grid, especially during periods of high electricity use or instability.

During the yearlong study, participants will receive financial incentives for their involvement and for sharing energy data while SRP monitors how effective EVs are in supporting grid reliability. The results could set the stage for wider adoption of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology in the United States, potentially offering not just greener energy solutions but also new economic benefits for EV owners.

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Lambda ECL, in partnership with the real estate platform Real Estate Equities (REE), is set to introduce Arizona’s first hydrogen-powered residential community in Buckeye, near Phoenix. This pioneering development will feature homes that utilize hydrogen fuel cell technology for their electricity, heating, and hot water, marking a significant step toward sustainable housing in the region. The project aims to showcase hydrogen as a viable alternative energy source for residential communities, potentially transforming how neighborhoods are powered while reducing carbon emissions.

The community, located within the 7,000-acre master plan of Tartesso, will include around 100 single-family homes in its first phase, with construction expected to start in late 2024. By integrating hydrogen power into everyday living, Lambda ECL and REE hope to pave the way for similar eco-friendly developments nationwide, responding to the growing demand for clean and resilient energy solutions in the residential sector.

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Amid the intensifying heat and drought in Arizona, solar power is gaining ground as both a practical energy solution and a real estate selling point. Homebuyers in the region are increasingly seeking out properties outfitted with solar panels, attracted by the promise of lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental footprint. Real estate agents note that homes with solar installations tend to sell faster and often at higher prices, as residents look for ways to manage rising cooling costs amid record-setting temperatures.

However, some hurdles remain. There are varying local regulations, differences in utility company policies, and the up-front installation costs, all of which can complicate the decision to invest in solar technology. Despite these challenges, the drive toward solar adoption is accelerating as Arizona communities adapt to more extreme weather and as state incentives support the transition to renewable energy.

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A traffic incident on Interstate 35 near Ames, Iowa, caused major delays Thursday morning as emergency crews responded to a multi-vehicle crash. Authorities closed northbound lanes for several hours while they worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the accident. Officials advised drivers to use alternate routes and exercise caution in the area.

No serious injuries were immediately reported, but the crash highlighted the ongoing challenges with traffic flow and safety on busy interstate highways in central Iowa. Law enforcement continues to urge motorists to remain patient and alert, especially during peak commute times when such incidents can quickly escalate traffic disruptions.

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