SPW reports on the recent evolution of O&M tech and standards for large C&I projects. They talk about staffing needs, hiring practices, training, needed maintenance, tools of the trade (tech and other elements) and more.
EnergySage’s latest report shows that resi solar and storage prices reached new all-time lows: solar prices dropped for the third consecutive six-month period to $2.50 per watt and quoted storage prices fell to $999 per kilowatt-hour stored. They also found that panels have continued to increase in power output: in H2 2024, 33% of quotes included solar panels with rated outputs above 450 W, up from just 1% in H2 2023.
American Solar Grazing Association’s report from a two-year study conducted at 31 different commercial solar sites found that solar sheep grazing helps to create a beneficial dual-use environment (agrivoltaics) that promotes healthier soil and food for sheep.
A 25% tariff on imports could raise the cost of renewable energy overall by 7% (many of Trump’s tariffs exceed that 25% threshold). Higher clean energy costs could challenge tech companies looking to expand data centers to power AI, and the EV industry could contract because upfront costs would go up due to the reliance on foreign materials. However, the potential economic slump could result in a drop in emissions.
After 40 years in solar Panasonic shuttered its house manufacturing solar and storage division. The reason is financial – the company explained that manufacturing panels has become a low-margin business category with falling prices and changing tech. They are now opting to outsource manufacturing and focus on designing and selling.
ICN reports on the impact of Trump’s first 100 days on renewables. They detail cuts re govt agencies and research funding and rescinded rules that lower pollution levels. They also look at bolstering coal production and slowing renewables deployment and more.
Pegasus talks with Baywa re about their latest innovations in racking products, the impact of the tariffs, comparisons with competition, their software and more. The video is below.