SPW covers what EPCs need to know about choosing the right solar irradiance sensors/pyranometers. They look at the fact that buyers should factor in product availability and lead time, ease of installation, responsive, expert support, and total value. They also discuss questions for sensor suppliers regarding response time, anti-dew and frost mitigation, surge protection, offset errors, and power consumption.
Factor This looks at how utilities are modernizing to meet increasing energy demand and address an aging infrastructure. They look at how they are using new hardware and software and trying to shape policy to better integrate renewables, strengthen cybersecurity, and design more sustainable grids. They also assess obstacles and opportunities for utilities around this push.
This op-ed piece brings FERC to task as the key player in maintaining a competitive segment of independent power producers by safeguarding open access to the grid for private developers, thus preventing monopoly utility self-dealing. The article argues for why Americans, clean energy and the grid need this.
SPW looks at the current load growth problem vexing the grid in a number of states. They look at the three key factors – data centers, resurgent domestic manufacturing, and the electrification of the transportation and building sectors – and initiatives being taken to account for the spike in electricity demand. They also look at other problems that need to be solved for the initiatives to work.
In the wake of the impending loss of the resi ITC OpenSolar, of a free solar design and project management platform, discusses cost-savings strategies for resi. Their CEO talks about automated permitting, cutting hardware costs, lowering customer acquisition costs, and slashing overhead.
The Solar Builder article offers 101 on what goes into a completely secure battery storage enclosure. It looks at UL 50E standards for gasket compression, fastener performance, and other factors that protect an enclosure from elements. It also discusses IP65 ratings for where there is fine dust/sand that cause abrasive wear for hinges and other moving parts and anti-low-pressure water spray for installs near open water.
The Good Energy podcast from SEIA talks with Ken Johnston, VP of Sales for the US solar cell manufacturer ES Foundry. Johnston talks about the opening of a solar manufacturing facility in the United States, his key points when speaking with members of Congress, and his company’s plans for the coming years. The video is below.