Solar

Balcony solar

Balcony solar bill introduced in Congress for the first time

The Socket Full of Sunshine Act would require state utility regulators to consider clearing the way for plug-in solar and would offer rebates for low-income households.

By Alison F. Takemura . 21 October 2026

two solar panels hanging from an apartment balcony with flowers — (Frank Hoermann/SVEN SIMON/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images)

Solar

How one Chicago program is diversifying the solar workforce

Founded by a former public-housing resident, the 548 Foundation provides training, stipends, and support to build Black generational wealth through clean energy.

By Kari Lydersen . 14 October 2026
Solar

Qcells aims to build a giant factory for next-gen tandem solar

Layering perovskites onto regular silicon panels unlocks higher efficiency. Qcells hopes to beat the competition to market by leveraging its legacy manufacturing skills.

By Julian Spector . 13 October 2026
Climatetech finance

With scaled-back plans, green banks navigate Trump’s funding freeze

Green banks enabled $12.4 billion in hard-to-finance clean energy and climate projects in 2024 and 2025. But they had to scramble to make up for lost federal funds.

By Jeff St. John . 12 October 2026
Food and farms

How a reluctant Iowa farming county undid a ban on battery storage

Three brothers wanted to use some land for solar, batteries, and cattle grazing. First they had to convince local officials — and the community — to allow batteries.

By Julian Spector . 8 October 2026
Solar

Connecticut’s solar ambitions hit skepticism from a major utility

The state’s top utility has refused to sign deals for solar projects picked by the state. Will the same thing happen with Connecticut’s latest round of procurements?

By Sarah Shemkus . 7 October 2026
Solar

Where does balcony solar stand in your state?

Dozens of states are considering legislation to allow residents to use DIY plug-in solar. Follow the efforts here.

By Sarah Shemkus . 2 October 2026
Food and farms

The USDA just made it way harder for farmers to get grants for solar

Even farmers who were already promised funds from the REAP program may never get them under the Trump admin’s new restrictions. Some are suing.

By Kari Lydersen . 1 October 2026
Solar

North Carolina food bank gets microgrid backup for future storms

Marshall’s Beacon of Hope was spared during Hurricane Helene. Thanks to a state grant, solar panels and batteries make it even better prepared to help its community.

By Elizabeth Ouzts . 1 October 2026
Corporate procurement

Despite big Texas solar purchase agreement, Meta still uses lots of gas

The new solar project is less than half the size of a gas plant planned for Meta’s El Paso data center.

By Lauren Nutall, Inside Climate News . 1 October 2026
Marine transport

Massachusetts startup floats a versatile new solar boat

Longtime EV pioneer James Worden turns his vision to the water, with sun-and-battery-powered vessels customizable for ferry routes, tourist cruises, and water taxis.

By Sarah Shemkus . 28 September 2026