Alaska residents have access to community solar energy thanks to a new law.
The federal government announces new efforts to protect residential solar customers
Washington, DC
The federal government has initiated a multi-agency effort to address predatory business practices in the residential solar industry. The U.S. Treasury Department, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Federal Trade Commission are encouraging consumers to file complaints, releasing new educational information for homeowners seeking solar energy quotes and more.
DOE loan office backs Qcells with $1.45 billion for new solar panel factory
Washington, DC
The Dept. Loan Programs Office of Energy announced a conditional commitment for a loan guarantee of up to $1.45 billion to Qcells for its new solar supply chain facility in Cartersville, Georgia. The site is expected to begin producing blocks, wafers, cells and panels by the end of 2024.
U.S. households claimed $6.3 billion in clean energy tax credits by 2023
Washington, DC
New data from the IRS shows that more than 1.2 million American households have claimed more than $6 billion in credits for clean energy investments in homes – such as solar electricity generation, solar water heating and battery storage – at an average of $5,000 per household. It was the first year that the IRA’s full adjustments to the value and scope of these tax credits were in effect.
18 Republicans in the House of Representatives urge the Speaker not to repeal the IRA
Washington, DC
On August 6, 18 Republicans in the House of Representatives sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson requesting that the IRA be retained after hearing concerns about repeal. The letter also emphasizes that the IRA has created good jobs and stimulated investment in Republican districts.
Biden is increasing the number of silicon solar cells that enter the country tariff-free
Washington, DC
President Biden is giving the domestic solar panel manufacturing market a break from tariffs on imported solar cells with the latest announcement from the White House. The President has amended measures taken earlier this year on the import of crystalline silicon solar panels (CSPV) by increasing the amount of silicon solar cells entering the country tariff-free to 12.5 GW.
Alaska becomes the latest state to legalize community solar
Juneau, Alaska
On August 14, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy signed legislation allowing community solar programs in the state. The new law opens access to clean energy for the first time to more than 260,000 Alaskans living in rental properties and 79,000 who live below the federal poverty line.
California Public Advocates Office proposes changes for older NEM clients
Sacramento, California
California’s Public Advocates Office published a fact sheet suggesting that NEM 1.0 and 2.0 customers’ rates should be adjusted. World of solar energy spoke to the California Solar & Storage Association about whether this is a real threat to the state’s solar policy. The California Solar & Storage Association said it is not concerned about the report’s implications on California solar policy, but is concerned about the PAO’s position on solar energy.