Solar

Utilities

Duke Energy’s proactive grid upgrades under fire from electric co-ops

In North Carolina, the utility has a unique new approach to improve its grid and add solar, but co-ops are complaining to FERC about the cost.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 24 April 2026
Solar

Why smartphone cameras could unlock cheaper, faster rooftop solar

Remote virtual inspections are now a well-tested tool for contractors and building agencies alike. Solar and electrification advocates want more states to adopt them.

By Jeff St. John . 22 April 2026
Solar

Are long-promised solar perovskites finally hitting mass production?

Tandem PV has built an automated factory line in California to produce glass coated with materials that it says can improve solar panel efficiency by one-third.

By Julian Spector . 20 April 2026
Solar

What to know before you get balcony solar

States are starting to embrace plug-and-play solar. Get up to speed on the cost, payback, and safety bona fides of the systems before they hit shelves near you.

By Alison F. Takemura . 17 April 2026
Clean energy

This Ohio county put a ban on wind and solar. Will voters reverse it?

Richland County blocked large-scale renewables in most townships. Voters now have a rare opportunity to overturn that policy at the ballot box.

By Kathiann M. Kowalski . 13 April 2026
Solar

This program pays nonprofits to take the time to consider solar

A Massachusetts initiative is making it easier for resource-strapped nonprofits to access federal tax credits for solar before they disappear.

By Sarah Shemkus . 8 April 2026
Transmission

How a community solar breakthrough took shape in Illinois

Utilities, solar companies, and environmentalists worked together to fast-track flexible interconnection and build lots of community solar in record time.

By Jeff St. John . 6 April 2026
Clean energy

Iran war could spur Europe to double down on renewables — again

The Mideast conflict is plunging the European Union into yet another energy crisis. EU officials are once again embracing solar and wind as a result.

By Dan McCarthy . 3 April 2026
Solar

Alabama Power can keep charging steep rooftop solar fee, judge rules

The standby charge, among the highest in the nation, is “chilling” solar in the sunny state, critics say. Alabama Power says the fee is needed to maintain the grid.

By Dennis Pillion . 1 April 2026
Solar

Balcony solar bills make inroads across New England

Energy affordability woes are pushing all six states to advance legislation allowing DIY, plug-in solar panels. A bill is even nearing the governor’s desk in Maine.

By Sarah Shemkus . 27 March 2026