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24 YRS
First Solar, Inc.
First Solar knows that clean affordable solar electricity is an essential part of the worldwide energy mix. That’s why First Solar leads the way with the lowest carbon footprint, lowest water usage and fastest energy payback of any PV technology.
In the radiant world of solar innovation, First Solar stands as a beacon of commitment to excellence and sustainability. At First Solar, our mission is twofold: to produce the industry's finest thin film PV modules and to foster a safe and secure environment for our dedicated associates. Our groundbreaking manufacturing process sets us apart, as we seamlessly transform a simple sheet of glass into a fully functional solar panel in a mere 3.5 [...]
- Solar Panel, Mono, Poly
- United States
- Vietnam, United States, Australia
Creating a world sustained by clean energy requires education, transparency, and trust. At SolarCellz USA, we invest in business solutions to reduce customer risk and the partner education that empowers their decision-making. We’re building smarter customers and a smarter marketplace.
- MPPT Charge Controller, Solar Battery, Solar inverter, Grid Tie Inverters, Mobile Inverters, Solar Panel
- United States
- United States
Atlantic Clean Energy Supply, LLC (ACES), is a clean energy equipment supplier and an engineering consulting services provider. By working with industry-leading companies around the world, we can offer industry-leading Photovoltaic Panel(PV), PV testing & measurement instruments, LED, and other clean energy and energy conservation products. All our solar panel factories are vertically integrated manufacturers with combined over 30 years of [...]
4 YRS
La Solar
The vision of the Company is to raise public awareness of the benefits of solar energy in the local market. In addition, La Solar strives to become one of the best manufacturers in the global market.
Established in 2019, LA Solar Factory is an Armenia-based company that manufactures solar modules produced on the latest generation equipment, developed by Meyer Burger Swiss Company, moreover, the quality of solar panels corresponds to the USA and Europe quality standards [...]
18 YRS
Prism Solar
For over 15 years, Prism Solar Technologies has been at the forefront of the solar industry, making waves since its founding in 2005. A true pioneer in bifacial solar technology within the U.S. market, the company's passion for innovation remains unwavering even after nearly two decades. While the initial focus was on bifacial technology, Prism Solar has continuously evolved, achieving remarkable strides in product design, long-term reliability, [...]
Amerisolar, also known as Worldwide Energy and Manufacturing USA Co., Ltd, is a distinguished solar module manufacturer boasting 28 years of industry experience since its establishment in 1993. This company has not only excelled in the production of top-quality solar modules but has also positioned itself as a global provider of technical services for solar power plants, catering to both on-grid and off-grid systems. Amerisolar offers a [...]
3 YRS
Sunergy USA Works
Founded in 2008, Sunergy is located in Feidong economic development zone. It is a high-tech enterprise engaged in research and development, production, sales and service of solar modules, photovoltaic power generation systems investment, operation, maintenance, design and procurement of photovoltaic power station. At present, the company has an annual production capacity of 3GW components and an annual installation capacity of 1GW power [...]
13 YRS
Solaria
Introducing Solaria, a testament to relentless innovation and a beacon of sustainability in the energy landscape. A part of the groundbreaking solar DNA of Maxeon Solar Technologies, Solaria emerges as a distinctive force, pushing the boundaries of what solar technology can achieve. Since its spin-off from the esteemed SunPower Corporation in 2020, Solaria has embarked on an independent journey, shaping the future of clean energy with a global [...]
33 YRS
Sundial Energy, Inc.
In a world grappling with the dire consequences of traditional energy sources, Sundial Energy emerges as a beacon of hope. Our planet faces the imminent threats of air and water pollution stemming from coal and gas-fired energy production, posing severe health, safety, and environmental risks. The insatiable demand for fossil fuels is pushing us towards an unsustainable future, jeopardizing both our well-being and the security of nations relying [...]
64 YRS
Kyocera
Kyocera Corporation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and quality that has defined its journey since its establishment on April 1, 1959. Founded in Kyoto, Japan, by Dr. Kazuo Inamori and seven visionary colleagues, Kyocera began as a start-up venture with a profound commitment to pioneering cutting-edge products rooted in advanced materials and components. As the headquarters and parent company of the global Kyocera [...]
NorthStar Battery is proud to unveil an enhanced line of high rate AGM thin plate pure lead batteries, complemented by a comprehensive warranty. Our goal has always been to lead the industry with innovative solutions that exceed the demands of our customers and reduce their operating costs. We were the first to launch a battery cooling solution with energy-efficient active cooling, keeping batteries at optimal operating temperatures to extend [...]
Introducing Corosolar, a dynamic force in the energy industry committed to redefining the standards of success. With a collective experience of over 150 years, our team of industry experts is dedicated to powering the world through innovative solutions and unwavering service. At Corosolar, we recognize that the energy sector is not just an industry; it's a lifeline for the world. Our global family of thousands, working seamlessly as one, [...]
31 YRS
Patriot Solar Group
In the rich tapestry of history that weaves Patriot Solar Group into existence, the journey began in 1992 as Patriot Antenna Systems. Under the leadership of President Jeffery Mathie, the company ascended to the pinnacle of the telecommunications industry, achieving remarkable milestones with an impressive $40 million in annual sales and the prestigious recognition as an Inc 500 honoree. The global impact of Patriot Antenna Systems was evident [...]
SunModo embodies a culture of innovation that propels us to the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. We firmly believe that true leaders are not just visionaries; they are innovators who commit substantial resources to crafting the absolute best solutions. Our mission is deeply rooted in a global inspiration, recognizing that 24 out of 100 people in a world village lack electricity. SunModo is on a mission to accelerate the adoption [...]
11 YRS
Pegasus Solar Inc.
In the pursuit of a better way to mount rooftop solar, the journey of Pegasus Solar commenced with a belief in innovation and a commitment to improvement. Our story began with the sketches of a vision that has only intensified over the years. Pegasus Solar is a testament to continuous advancement, always seeking to redefine, reinforce, and simplify mounting systems and installation processes. The driving force behind our relentless [...]
Perfection Architectural Systems is a distinguished leader in the field of engineered, long-term aluminum canopy solutions. Our commitment to excellence is evident in the millions of square feet of aluminum walkway covers that adorn various locations across the United States. With a history rooted in service, quality, and reliability, Perfection has become a trusted name in the industry. Our reputation as a premium manufacturer of aluminum [...]
AceClamp® is a renowned industry leader, specializing in the design and manufacturing of innovative rooftop snow retention and solar mounting systems. With a commitment to enhancing efficiency and durability, we have earned a reputation for providing top-quality solutions that save contractors both time and money. Our core philosophy revolves around simplifying installation processes, reducing labor costs, and ensuring the longevity of your [...]
Powers Solar Frames is a company built on a strong foundation of innovation, service excellence, and a steadfast commitment to our customers' success. With a "Can Do" attitude at our core, we believe that our customers are the driving force behind our continued growth and prosperity. Our primary mission is to empower our customers, helping them achieve their goals and stay at the forefront of their respective fields. One of the key pillars [...]
Welcome to Tamarack Solar, where we're not just in the business of solar solutions; we're on a mission to make solar streamlined and fun. Founded in the mid-1990s in the heart of northern California's solar revolution, Tamarack Solar Products began as Two Seas Metalwork, manufacturing mounting systems for solar modules. Our journey started with a vision to make solar accessible, affordable, amusing, and easy to install. Back then, solar arrays [...]
2 YRS
Aerocompact Mounting
The company was founded in 2014 by Mathias Muther. Specialized in the production of aerodynamic substructures for the photovoltaic industry, the company grew rapidly. The company focused on the manufacture and sale of PV racking for flat roofs without direct connection and the Aerotool design software, which is available online free of charge for every customer. Fastening solutions for pitched roofs or ground-mounted systems now round off the [...]
- Mounting System, Ballasted Mounting Solar System, Roof Mount Systems, Tile Roof Mounting System, Solar Panel
- United States
- Austria
Welcome to Terrasmart, the powerhouse of renewable energy under the Gibraltar umbrella (NASDAQ: ROCK). As a premier provider of solar solutions, Terrasmart seamlessly blends innovation, technical prowess, and a rich heritage across its four brands. This fusion results in a comprehensive project experience and top-notch solutions that transcend markets, offering cutting-edge solar technologies and intelligent solutions throughout the project [...]
ProSolar® stands as a pioneering force in the solar manufacturing sector, boasting an impressive 28-year legacy. At the core of our innovative contributions is the RoofTrac® "Top-Down" solar mounting system, an original concept that secured us the prestigious US patent. Complementing this achievement is the GroundTrac® ground mount system, an industry leader in its own right. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond innovation, [...]
PV Racking stands as a beacon of innovation in the solar industry, proudly headquartered in Southampton, Pennsylvania. Born from the minds of forward-thinking solar installers, our company has revolutionized traditional clamped racking systems, paving the way for sleeker, more efficient clamp-less designs. At the heart of PV Racking's mission is the dual commitment to reducing the labor-intensive aspects of installation while delivering a [...]
Welcome to the next generation of solar technology. Here at SolarTech Universal, we strive to deliver nothing but the best. Optimized with the latest technology in manufacturing, we partnered with industry leaders to establish a unique and exciting production line and deliver consistently efficient premium solar panels.
9 YRS
Quest Renewables
Quest Renewables stands at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution, offering cutting-edge photo-voltaic racking solutions born out of a pioneering collaboration between technology and engineering. This innovative venture emerged from the culmination of a multi-million-dollar Department of Energy research project, establishing Quest Renewables as a beacon of excellence in the realm of solar technology. The genesis of Quest Renewables [...]
In the heart of innovation and precision, TWI stands as a beacon of excellence in steel fabrication. With a sprawling 65,000 square foot facility complemented by a 50,000 square foot material storage yard, TWI is equipped to transcend the challenges of standard and architecturally exposed steel projects of any magnitude. Our proven expertise, demonstrated on diverse ventures nationwide, extends across office buildings, museums, educational [...]
ack10 Solar is at the forefront of innovation, providing cutting-edge solar mounting solutions designed to harness the power of the sun efficiently. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our exceptional products, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and performance. Introducing the Rack10 Shark Series, an ingenious flat roof ballasted mounting system that delivers unparalleled value with costs as low as $0.08/watt. At the heart of the [...]
At Borrego O&M, we are more than just a service provider — we are stewards of a mission to address the global energy challenges that define our time. Our commitment is deeply rooted in maximizing the performance and ensuring the continuous operation of commercial and utility-scale solar assets. As a premier third-party O&M service provider, we take pride in our extensive experience and the crucial role we play in the industry. Our [...]
3 YRS
Solar Call LLC
Solar Call is a manufacturer of photovoltaic modules, successfully working on major international markets, offering to its customers high performance solutions in compliance with the most restrictive quality standards required by leading certification bodies worldwide. Solar Call ensures excellent products at competitive prices: From cell’s stringing to panel lamination to test phase, every phase of the process takes place in accordance with [...]
At Unirac, we embody the philosophy that Better Solar Starts Here. With a rich history spanning over two decades, we have consistently delivered top-notch solar PV racking products and services, recognizing that the essence lies not just in the speed of building solar projects, but in doing it right. Boasting over 2,500,000 installations, our seasoned team brings invaluable expertise that sets us apart. While we may be manufacturers of solar [...]
Welcome to RapidRack, where innovation meets efficiency in the realm of racking solutions. At RapidRack, we take pride in setting a new standard for clean and efficient energy infrastructure. One of our key differentiators lies in our commitment to eliminating the chaos of messy wires. Through the incorporation of built-in wire management, RapidRack ensures the cleanest and most organized racking solutions in the industry. While competitors [...]
77 YRS
Valmont Industries Inc
In 1946, Robert B. Daugherty embarked on a journey fueled by a $5,000 investment and an unwavering belief in the potential for better business practices. Thus, Valmont® was born. Evolving from humble origins, Valmont has grown into a worldwide powerhouse, specializing in the design and manufacture of highly sophisticated products and services that contribute to the advancement of infrastructure and agricultural productivity. At the heart of our [...]
Terrasmart, the distinguished renewable energy arm of Gibraltar (NASDAQ: ROCK), stands at the forefront of the industry as a premier provider of cutting-edge solar racking technologies, electrical balance-of-system products, installation services, and advanced project optimization software. The essence of Terrasmart lies in its unwavering commitment to delivering a comprehensive and seamless project experience, coupled with best-in-class [...]
39 YRS
SunPower Corp.
We believe clean energy and storage should be accessible to everybody. That's why SunPower designs all-in-one residential and commercial solutions backed by personal customer service and the industry's most comprehensive warranty. And with over 35 years of dedicated solar experience, we're the only U.S.-based solar company that's been around longer than our 25-year warranty.
Alps Technology Inc designs, manufacturers and makes solar cell and solar module products for commercial, industrial and telecommucation applications worldwide. The Los Angeles- base company has combined twelve years as a leader in compact-disk and personal computer manufacturers with world-calss solar technology to offer unparalleled high-efficient solar cells and solar modules that produce reliable and affordable “green” power and [...]
In-depth technical knowledge, hands on experienced professinal team for technical & pre / post sale support. we always walk the extra mile for our customer satisfaction. At EVVO, we do not compromise on Quality, we deliver QUALITY with on time delivery commitment at par EVVOSOLAR is constantly researching quality components for improving the quality of Solar panel and the final output has an excellent R&D team, production team and a very [...]
Roller Die + Forming has been a stalwart in the roll forming industry for over 85 years, establishing itself as a premier producer of both standard and customized roll-formed parts. Our extensive reach spans not only across the United States but also extends to Canada, Mexico, and various other parts of the globe. As a dedicated roll forming company, we boast a wealth of experience, technical expertise, and the capacity to undertake projects of [...]
35 YRS
West Coast Iron, Inc.
At West Coast Iron, Inc. (WCI), we don't just build structures; we forge lasting partnerships and deliver excellence with every project. Established in 1988, WCI takes pride in being an employee-owned company, uniting our team with a shared commitment to exceptional service and superior craftsmanship. As an accredited American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) certified company, WCI stands as a benchmark in the field of heavy and [...]
21 YRS
RoofScreen Manufacturing
At RoofScreen, our commitment revolves around you – the problem solver, the individual seeking solutions, and the visionary with specific needs. While details about us are available further down this page, our primary focus remains on addressing your concerns. We understand the importance of products that make economic, practical, and aesthetic sense, alleviating worries about risk and liability. Our dedication is to provide lasting solutions, [...]
JOBCO Manufacturing & Steel Fabrication, LLC is a reputable steel fabricating shop nestled in the picturesque region of Western Pennsylvania. Our location in Ambridge, just 12 miles north of Pittsburgh, places us strategically on the banks of the Ohio River, with easy access to essential railroad tracks. This prime location grants us the advantage of efficiently receiving materials and economically shipping our final products. To further [...]
Futuresolar, FutureSolar Group Co., Ltd, is a professional solar module manufacturer with a experience in production and quality control since 2015. Futuresolar is also a provider of technical services for solar power plant (on-grid and off-grid), including technical design, installation and maintenance,for customers all over the world. To serve global customers, Futuresolar adjusted its strategy and started to cooperate with the [...]
13 YRS
The PowerStore
PowerStore, a pioneer in Solar Power Solutions and Storage, has been illuminating North & Central America and the Caribbean Islands since 2010. Nestled in the heart of Texas, USA, our headquarters have been the epicenter of innovation, providing sustainable energy solutions that go beyond expectations. Expanding our horizons, we proudly inaugurated our second office in Mooresville, NC, on December 1st, 2020, a testament to our commitment to [...]
- Rail Mounting System, Solar Battery, Battery Chargers, Lead-acid Battery, Lithium-Ion Battery, Microinverter, Off Grid Inverters, Solar Panel, Mono, Poly
- United States
- United States
43 YRS
Xandex Inc.
Xandex Inc., founded on August 22, 1980, emerged from the collaborative vision of three forward-thinking individuals, all steeped in the pioneering culture of Silicon Valley. Fueled by an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, they embarked on a journey to establish a startup that would not only define an industry but also exemplify the essence of innovation. At the core of Xandex's inception was the groundbreaking DieMark® disposable-cartridge [...]
19 YRS
MiaSolé
MiaSolé stands as a pioneering force in the realm of solar energy, carving a remarkable journey from its Silicon Valley roots in 2004 to a global leader in thin film solar panel efficiency. At the heart of our innovation lies a commitment to developing lightweight, flexible, and robust solar cells that harness the highest efficiency thin film technology available today. Our solar cells, marked by a flexible architecture, transcend traditional [...]
- Solar Battery, Battery Chargers, Solar Panel, Thin Film
- United States
- United States
Kern Steel Fabrication, Inc. is a company committed to the art of steel fabrication and the science of precision project management. We take immense pride in our work and our unwavering dedication to our customers. For us, a project is not just a one-off task; it's an opportunity to foster lasting relationships. We believe that the foundation of any successful project lies in trust, transparency, and mutual growth. At Kern Steel Fabrication, our [...]
29 YRS
Lean Solar
Lean Solar is a dynamic company that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and installation of innovative modular ground-mount solar systems designed specifically for industrial applications. Our core mission is to offer turnkey solutions that empower our clients to dramatically reduce their energy costs and embrace sustainability. We pride ourselves on delivering projects that yield impressive payback periods, typically within 3 to 5 [...]
At Shoals®, we are not just a company; we are a collective force of engineers and solar enthusiasts, a community of inquisitive minds and collaborative spirits. Within our team, optimism fuels our drive to challenge conventions and support each other in the pursuit of designing, developing, and delivering solutions that harbor the potential to transform the world. As proud recipients of the Balance of Systems Winner at the PV Magazine 2019 [...]
52 YRS
Allearth Solar
Welcome to AllEarth, where our passion for renewable energy has illuminated our journey since 1971. Founded by David Blittersdorf, who ignited his vision at the age of 14 with a homemade wind turbine lighting a Vermont maple sugar shack, we have grown into a beacon of sustainable innovation. Our roots in Vermont, a land that inspires both our technology and commitment to economic vibrancy, drive us to create affordable renewable energy solutions [...]
45 YRS
Alpha Products, Inc.
Welcome to Alpha Solar, the pioneering arm of Alpha Products, Inc., dedicated to illuminating the future through sustainable energy solutions. Established in 1978 and headquartered in sunny California, Alpha Products, Inc. has been at the forefront of innovation, initially specializing in connectors, switches, potentiometers, microwave products, cable, and turnkey assemblies. Evolving with the dynamic needs of the market, we proudly introduce [...]
United States
The Solar Potential of USA
According to a 1998 report by the United States Department of Energy, it has been discovered that available domestic solar energy, including biomass, was technically accessible regardless of cost amounted to 586,687 Quadrillion BTUs (Quads). Of that number, 95% was biomass. Coal represented the second largest resource, with 38,147 Quads. Predictions of how much solar power was economically possible to collect added up to 352 quads, compared with 5,266 quads from coal.
All the estimations that were used in the report were based on a prediction that the price of a barrel oil would become $38 in 2010. Additionally, they were also based on multiplied annual renewable resources by 30 for comparison with non-renewable resources. In 2007, the total annual energy consumption of the United States was about 100 Quads, which was less than 0.5% of what is theoretically available from sunlight.
Moreover, in 2012, a report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) described the technically available renewable energy resources for each state. In addition to that, the report estimated that urban utility-scale photovoltaics could supply 2,232 TWh per year, rural utility-scale PV 280,613 TWh per year, rooftop PV 818 TWh per year, and CSP 116,146 TWh per year. All these amounted for a total of almost 400,000 TWh per year, which was 100 times the current consumption of 3,856 TWh in 2011. For comparison, at the time, onshore wind potential was estimated at 32,784 TWh per year, offshore wind at 16,976 TWh per year, and the total available from all renewable resources was estimated at 481,963 TWh per year.
United States Government Support
A complete list of incentives can be found at the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE). A lot of solar power systems are grid-connected and use net metering laws to allow the use of electricity in the evening that was generated during the daytime. New Jersey is the state with the least restrictive net metering law while California is the one that has the most number of homes that have solar panels installed.
Many were installed because of the million solar roofs initiative, which entails a vision introduced back in 2007 where solar PV panels are to be installed on an additional million rooftops of home or businesses in the state of California by 2018.
In some states, like Florida, solar power is subject to legal restrictions that discourage its use.
Federal Tax Credit
The federal tax credit for solar was extended for eight years as part of the financial bailout bill, H.R. 1424, until the end of 2016. It was predicted that this will create about 440,000 jobs and 28 GW of solar power. Additionally, it was also predicted that this will lead to a $300 billion market for solar panels. This prediction did not take into account the removal of the $2,000 cap on residential tax credits at the end of 2008.
Moreover, a 30% tax credit is available for residential and commercial installations. For 2009 through 2011, this was a 30% grant instead of a tax credit, and at the time, it was known as the 1603 grant program.
The federal Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, an income tax credit on IRS Form 5695, for residential PV and solar thermal was extended in December 2015 to remain at 30% of system cost (parts and installations) for systems that are put into service by the end of 2019, then 26% until the end of 2020, and then 22% until the end of 2021. This applies to a taxpayer’s principal and/or second residences, but this can’t be applied to a property that is rented out. There is no maximum cap on the credit, and the credit can be applied toward the Alternative Minimum Tax. Any excess credit (greater than that year’s tax liability) can be rolled into the following year.
The solar industry and utilities clashed extensively on renewal, but the solar industry won. The renewal is expected to add $38 billion of investment for 20 GW of solar.
Section 1603 Grants
President Barack Obama’s stimulus bill in 2009 created a program known as Section 1603 grants. This program was designed so as to give federal grants to solar companies for 30% of investments into solar energy. Since 2009, the federal government has given solar companies $25 billion in grant money through this program. However, the Section 1603 grant program expired in 2011.
The United States Treasury Department has been investigating solar companies for potential fraud since 2013. The department promised a report by June 2015, but the report had not been released as of 2016.
Solar America Initiative
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) announced on September 29, 2008, that it will invest $17.6 million, subject to annual appropriations, in six company-led, early-stage PV projects under the Solar America Initiative’s “PV Incubator” funding opportunity. The PV Incubator project is designed to fund prototype PV components and systems with the goal of moving them through the commercialization process by 2010. The 2008 award is the second funding opportunity released under the PV Incubator project. With the cost-share from the industry, which is at least 20%, up to $35.4 million would be invested in these projects. These projects would run for 18 months and are subcontracted through DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Most of the projects were to receive up to $3 million in funding, except Solasta and Spire Semiconductor which would receive up to $2.6 million and $2.97 million, respectively. Some of the projects under this initiative include:
- Massachusetts-based 1366 Technologies developing a new cell architecture for low-cost, multi-crystalline silicon cells, which will enhance cell performance through improved light-trapping texturing and grooves for self-aligned metallization fingers
- California’s Innovalight using ink-jet printing to transfer their “silicon ink” onto thin-crystalline silicon wafers so as to produce high-efficiency and low-cost solar cells and modules
- Skyline Solar, also in California, developing an integrated, lightweight, and single-axis tracked system that reflects and concentrates sunlight over 10 times onto silicon cells
- Solasta, in Massachusetts, working on a novel cell design that increases currents and lowers materials cost
- Solexel, another California-based company, commercializing a disruptive, 3D high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon cell technology that dramatically reduces manufacturing cost per watt
- Spire Semiconductor in New Hampshire developing three-junction tandem solar cells that better optimize the optical properties of their device layers. This company is targeting cell efficiencies over 42% using a low-cost manufacturing method.
The PV Incubator project is part of the Solar America Initiative (SAI), which plans to make solar energy cost-competitive with conventional forms of electricity by 2015 (grid parity).
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technology Program (SETP) will achieve the goals of the SAI through partnerships and strategic alliances by focusing mainly on four areas. These are:
- Market Transformation: activities that address marketplace barriers and offer the chance for market expansion
- Device and Process Proof of Concept: R&D activities addressing novel devices or processes with a potentially significant performance or cost advantages
- Component Prototype and Pilot-Scale Production: R&D activities emphasizing the development of prototype PV components or systems that are produced at pilot-scale with demonstrated cost, reliability, or performance advantages
- System Development and Manufacturing: collaborative R&D activities among industry and university partners to develop and improve solar energy technologies
Another thing that is a part of the Solar America Initiative is the Solar America Showcase. For this activity, preference is given to large-scale, highly visible, and highly replicable installations that involve cutting-edge solar technologies or novel applications of solar.
SunShot Initiative
Announced by the Department of Energy in 2011, the SunShot Initiative aims to reduce the cost of solar power by 75% from 2010 to 2020. In great detail, this initiative’s goals are as follows:
- Residential system prices reduced from $6/W to $1.50/W
- Commercial system prices reduced from $5/W to $1.25/W
- Utility-scale system prices reduced from $4/W to $1/W (CSP, CPV, and PV)
Additionally, the Department of Energy announced a $29 million investment in four projects that would help advance affordable and reliable clean energy for American families and businesses. The $29 million would be separated into two investments:
- $21 million investment over five years to design plug-and-play PV systems that can be purchased, installed, and operational in one day
- $8 million investment in two projects to help utilities and grid operators better forecast when, where, and how much solar power will be produced at U.S. solar energy plants
Other projects under the SunShot Initiative are the following:
- Fraunhofer USA’s Center for Sustainable Energy Systems in Cambridge, Massachusetts developing PV technologies that allow homeowners to easily select the right solar system for their house and install, wire and connect to the grid
- North Carolina State University leading a project to create standard PV components and system designs that can adapt simply to any residential roof and can be installed and connected to the grid quickly and efficiently
- IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center in Armonk, New York leading a new project based on the Watson computer system that uses big data processing and self-adjusting algorithms to integrate different prediction models and learning technologies
All these projects are working with the Department of Energy and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association to improve the accuracy of solar forecasts and share the results of this work with industry and academia.
State and Local
There have been numerous instances throughout the years that showcase the efforts that state and local government officials have undergone to make solar possible. The following are the most well-known of these instances:
- Governor Jerry Brown has signed legislation requiring California’s utilities to get 50% of their electricity from renewable energy sources by the end of 2030.
- The San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed solar incentives of up to $6,000 for homeowners and up to $10,000 for businesses. Applications for the program started on July 1, 2008. In April 2016, they passed a law that requires all new buildings below 10 stories to have rooftop solar panels. This made San Francisco the first major U.S. city to do so.
- In 2008, Berkeley initiated a revolutionary pilot program where homeowners are able to add the cost of solar panels to their property tax assessment and pay for them out of their electricity cost savings. In 2009, over a dozen states passed legislation allowing property tax financing. All in all, 27 states offer loans for solar projects.
- The California Solar Initiative has set a goal to create 3,000 MW of new, solar-produced electricity by 2016.
- New Hampshire has a $3,750 residential rebate program for up to 50% of system cost for systems less than 5 kWp ($6,000 from July 1, 2008, until 2010).
- Louisiana has a 50% tax credit up to $12,500 for the installation of a wind or solar system.
- New Jersey law provides new solar power installations with exemptions from the 7% state sales tax and from any increase in property assessment (local property tax increases), subject to certain registration requirements.
Feed-in Tariff
According to experience, a feed-in tariff is both the least expensive and the most effective means of developing solar power. This is because investors need certainty, and a feed-in tariff definitely gives them that.
California enacted a feed-in tariff that began on February 14, 2008, while Washington has a feed-in tariff of 15¢/kWh which increases to 54¢/kWh if components are manufactured in the state. Hawaii, Michigan, and Vermont also have feed-in tariffs.
In 2010, the Federal Energy Regulatory (FERC) ruled that states were able to implement above-market feed-in tariffs for specific technologies.
Solar Renewable Energy Certificates
In recent years, states that have passed the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) or the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) laws have relied on the use of solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) to meet state requirements. They have achieved this by adding a specific solar carve-out to the state RPS. The first SREC program was implemented in 2005 by New Jersey. Soon enough, this program has expanded to several other states, including Maryland, Delaware, Ohio, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
SREC offers many advantages, but one of its major problems is the lack of certainty for investors. A feed-in tariff provides a known return on investment, but an SREC program provides only a possible return of investment.
Power Purchase Agreement
In 2006, investors started offering free solar panel installation in return for a 25-year contract. They also began offering a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which is a contract between two parties — one which generates electricity (the seller) and one which is looking to purchase electricity (the buyer).
By 2009, over 90% of commercial PV installed in the United States were installed using a PPA. About 90% of the PV installed in the United States is in states that specifically address PPAs.
New Construction Mandates
In March 2013, Lancaster California became the first U.S. city to mandate the inclusion of solar panels on new homes, requiring that every new housing development must average 1 kW per house.
PACE Financing
The Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing is a means of financing energy efficiency upgrades, disaster resiliency improvements, water conservation measures, or renewable energy installations of residential, commercial, and industrial property owners. This innovative financing arrangement lends money to a homeowner for a solar system, to be repaid via an additional tax assessment on the property for 20 years. This kind of financing arrangement allows the installation of the solar system at “relatively little up-front cost to the property owner.”
The principal feature of this program is that the balance of the loan is transferred to the new owners in the event the property is sold, and the loan is paid for entirely through electric bill savings. Unlike a mortgage loan, no funds are transferred when the property is sold — only the repayment obligation is transferred.
PACE programs are currently operating in eight states, California, Colorado, Florida, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Wisconsin. Additionally, they are on hold in many other states.
Current Status of Solar Power in the United States
Published on June 2019, the report from the Solar Energy Industries Association and Wood Mackenzie Power and Renewables, a market research group, have discovered that the first quarter of 2019 was the strongest in the U.S. solar industry’s history. A total of 2.7 GW of solar capacity was added to the grid at this time.
Aside from that, new solar installations should grow 25% from 2018, thus amounting to 13.3 GW. This bounceback — after solar installations dipped 2% last year — was driven by larger-scale utility solar projects, which account for 61% of the first quarter’s growth.
This development is a remarkable change from what was expected last year when President Trump announced that he was putting tariffs on imported solar cells and modules. During this time, the industry was worried that the tariffs would hinder solar. However, solar installations shot past the 2-million mark this year instead.
Moreover, the industry expects this growth to continue well past 2019. A number of U.S. utilities have solar projects in the works, and they should be a reality by 2024. And both residential and non-residential solar markets have grown tremendously over the years. Overall, solar power in the United States is currently on an uphill climb.
Solar Panel used for below projects in United States
Case Study: 250 WM Solar Project in Nevada
The Moapa Southern Paiute Solar Project is a 250 megawatt (MW) alternating current (AC) solar project located on approximately 2,000 acres on the Moapa River Indian Reservation in Clark County, Nevada. Capital Dynamics is the project owner and constructed the
Moapa Southern Paiute Solar Project
Project Overview The Moapa Southern Paiute Solar Project is a 250 megawatt (MW) alternating current (AC) solar project located on approximately 2,000 acres on the Moapa River Indian Reservation in Clark County, Nevada. Capital Dynamics is the project owner
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