Solar News of the Week 3.5
SunFarm Energy
Your local solar experts specializing in residential solar, battery storage, off-grid solutions, and EV charging.
A new report from the 2025 Sustainable Energy in America Factbook finds that the popularity of solar has exploded in recent years. Plus, FPL requests a new rate hike, community solar installations skyrocket, American manufacturing may be in jeopardy, and solar sales tactics come under scrutiny.
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FEATURED STORY
Renewables accounted for 24% of U.S. electricity in 2024 according to a new report from the Sustainable Energy in America Factbook. Wind power is seeing large declines as both on and offshore projects struggle to get off the ground. Battery storage also saw major gains and the U.S. represents the second-largest energy storage market in the world, with China leading the charge.
Food & Water Watch
Florida Power & Light has filed for a petition for rate increase across its 43 county service area. The utility giant proposes an increase of $8.961 billion in base rates over the next four years. If adopted, the rate increase would impact 12 million people and represent the largest rate hike request in U.S. history. FPL requested a massive rate hike in 2021 and was awarded the increase, making it the largest in Florida history. This latest request is double that amount.
Solar Power World
A new report found that community solar projects accounted for 1.7 GW of capacity in 2024. The growth was led by New York, Maine, and Illinois with cumulative community solar installations now totaling 8.6 GW across the country. “Community solar’s record-breaking growth in 2024 is a clear sign that demand for affordable, distributed energy is stronger than ever.”
New York Times
As antagonism towards clean energy grows, American manufacturing for renewables is in jeopardy. The Biden-era Inflation Reduction Act expanded incentives for domestic manufacturing of renewable energy technology. Now as the political winds change, companies are at the crossroads of whether to move forward with breaking ground.
PV Magazine
As the solar industry grapples with a reputation for bad actors and shady sales tactics, states are increasingly passing legislation to protect solar consumers. Much of the new legislation centers on ensuring that salespeople are employees of the companies they represent and that businesses hold proper contractors licenses. PV Magazine took a deep dive into the sales strategies and training methods of five installers across the country.?
We'll be back in two weeks with more solar and renewable energy news!
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