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California regulators have implemented new rules that are expected to discourage smaller solar projects, dealing a blow to the struggling solar industry. The rules specifically impact "community solar" programs, which allow renters and low-income households to participate in small-scale solar projects. The California Public Utilities Commission rejected a proposal aimed at making these projects more affordable and attractive to developers, instead opting for a plan backed by electric utilities. Solar advocates argue that the compensation for developers under the new rules will be too low to incentivize investment in these projects. [Extracted from the article]

California regulators have voted to reduce incentives for schools, apartment buildings, and farmers to install rooftop solar panels, which is a blow to the struggling solar industry. The California Public Utilities Commission has agreed to cut payments to owners of non-residential buildings for energy produced from their solar panels, and apartment owners will also see their credits reduced for solar used in common areas. These changes only apply to new customers. The decision aims to encourage customers to adopt battery storage and export solar during peak hours. However, the move has resulted in an 80% drop in sales for solar companies and is expected to lead to a loss of about 20% of California's solar jobs. [Extracted from the article]

The article examines the expanding labor market in the U.S. solar industry and more specifically in California. Information is provided on Homeboy Industries and GRID Alternatives that operate a program to train solar panel installers and provide the energy sources to poor neighborhoods in California.

"It is the first acquisition since closing our $500 million equity investment, demonstrating Longroad's objective of rapidly growing our operating portfolio", said Charles Spiliotis, Longroad Energy's chief investment officer. Renewable energy developer Longroad Energy has acquired the 98MW DC Titan Solar project from Sunpin Holdings. [Extracted from the article]

"It is a dark day in California when the utility regulators try to block out the sun", said Bernadette Del Chiaro, executive director of the California Solar & Storage Association. (Bloomberg) -- California will sharply reduce the incentive that encouraged more than a million homeowners and businesses to install rooftop solar panels and cemented the Golden State as a green energy pioneer. [Extracted from the article]

Solar companies want regulators to consider a more gradual move away from the current setup, where customers get paid the full retail rate for their exported solar energy. (Bloomberg) -- California utilities and solar companies lobbied state regulators Wednesday for changes to a proposed state plan that would revise a key rooftop solar subsidy. [Extracted from the article]

California's proposal calls for a 75% reduction in the credit that new customers would get for exporting excess power to the grid, according to the California Solar & Storage Association, which criticized the plan. (Bloomberg) -- California -- the biggest US solar market -- is poised to overhaul its landmark subsidy for rooftop panels to encourage homeowners to also install batteries to help stabilize its power grid and prevent blackouts. [Extracted from the article]

The plan calls for a 75% reduction in the credit that new customers would get for exporting excess power to the grid, according to the California Solar & Storage Association, which criticized the plan. (Bloomberg) -- California -- the biggest US solar market -- is poised to overhaul its landmark subsidy for rooftop panels to encourage homeowners to also install batteries to help stabilize its power grid and prevent blackouts. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- California regulators are delaying a vote on a controversial proposal to slash incentives for home solar systems as they consider revamping the measure. California Governor Gavin Newsom last month called for the commission to make changes to the proposal that would sharply reduce incentives and levy new fees for residential solar customers. [Extracted from the article]

Fenster said Sunrun believes the proposed grid-connection fees violate the 43-year-old Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act, a federal law designed to encourage renewable resources and promote competition for electric generation. Keywords: FSLR; MAXN; NOVA; RUN; SPWR; VRSK; ALLTOP; ALTNRG; BUSINESS; CMD; COS; ELQ; INDUSTRIAL; INDUSTRIES; NORTHAM; NRG; STKTOP; TOP; US; UTI; WORLD; WWTOP; WWTOPAM EN FSLR MAXN NOVA RUN SPWR VRSK ALLTOP ALTNRG BUSINESS CMD COS ELQ INDUSTRIAL INDUSTRIES NORTHAM NRG STKTOP TOP US UTI WORLD WWTOP WWTOPAM (Bloomberg) -- U.S. solar stocks led by Sunrun Inc. tumbled after California proposed new rules for rooftop power systems that threaten to slow installations. FSLR, MAXN, NOVA, RUN, SPWR, VRSK, ALLTOP, ALTNRG, BUSINESS, CMD, COS, ELQ, INDUSTRIAL, INDUSTRIES, NORTHAM, NRG, STKTOP, TOP, US, UTI, WORLD, WWTOP, WWTOPAM. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: EIX; ENPH; NOVA; PCG; RUN; SEDG; SPWR; SRE; TSLA; ALLTOP; ALTNRG; BUSINESS; CMD; COS; GLOBALMACR; INDUSTRIES; NORTHAM; NRG; NRGTOP; TOP; US; UTI; WORLD; WWTOP; WWTOPAM EN EIX ENPH NOVA PCG RUN SEDG SPWR SRE TSLA ALLTOP ALTNRG BUSINESS CMD COS GLOBALMACR INDUSTRIES NORTHAM NRG NRGTOP TOP US UTI WORLD WWTOP WWTOPAM (Bloomberg) -- California regulators proposed sharply lowering subsidies and adding new fees for home solar users, rattling a solar industry that was benefiting from the wildly successful program to help customers go green. The solar industry said the proposal would gut the subsidy plan, impose the highest solar fees in the U.S., threaten thousands of jobs and tarnish California's clean energy legacy. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents information on rapidly expanding solar-energy economy in Santa Clara Valley, Santa Clara County, California. The switch to alternative-energy sources is expected to shake up the way power is produced and consumed. Venture capitalists are investing in solar startups pursuing technological breakthroughs to make sun power cost effective. After a long time, high-tech manufacturing plants are being built in the region, which is known for its computer and Internet companies that changed the face of global communications and commerce in the late 20th century.

The utilities say their plan is designed to address the "unfair and growing inequity" in state policy that has resulted in customers without solar systems paying about $3 billion more annually in their electricity bills to subsidize existing rooftop customers. (Bloomberg) -- California's three big investor-owned utilities proposed changes to the state's rooftop-solar program that would lead to new connection charges and lower compensation for customers who install panels on their homes. [Extracted from the article]

The utilities say their plan is designed to address the "unfair and growing inequity" in state policy that has resulted in customers without solar systems paying about $3 billion more annually in their electricity bills to subsidize existing rooftop customers. (Bloomberg) -- California's three big investor-owned utilities proposed changes to the state's rooftop solar program that would lead to new connection charges and lower compensation for customers who install panels on their homes. "Solar customers do not pay their full share for use of the grid that they rely on or for state-mandated, public policy programs that support energy efficiency or lower-income customers", the utilities said in a statement. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the establishment of solar markets across states in the U.S. A state solar program is suggested to have financial support for projects, photovoltaic-friendly laws and regulations, solar incentive programs, a formal state government commitment, trained technicians, and consumer education about the project. As an example, the California Solar Initiative is a $3.3 billion program with rebate levels reduced every year. The Council of State Governments has teamed up with Clean Energy Group on the Department of Energy's Solar Initiative.

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is promulgating regulations to get them classified as universal waste, but the agency has been awaiting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's approval of this less onerous classification, and Kobold estimates it could be as late as July before the state gets authorization, if it gets approval at all. So, says Kobold, "We are asking that warehouse or distribution centers be exempt from getting universal waste handling permits. [Extracted from the article]

The author reports that the clean-energy business is becoming the next big investment boom. Investment in the field by venture capitalists and private-equity firms has quadrupled in the past two years. Investments are being pushed by high oil prices, and energy security and global warming concerns. California's leadership in clean energy is discussed.

Describes a solar power plant in the Mojave Desert that supplies electricity to southern California. How the plant is comprised of five Solar Electric Generating Systems; Indication that an international consortium, including the Spanish company Gher and Saint Gobain of France, will begin construction on a plant called Solar Tres; Mention of dish systems and parabolic mirrors used in solar technology; Potential market for solar research that includes Italy.

The article focuses on First Class Vending owned by brothers Matthew and Ryan Marsh who used modern technology for building the largest vending operation in Los Angeles, California with solar energy supporting their sustainability initiative. It mentions that acquisitions helped in the growth of Marshes company since 2003 and their solar energy installations in pioneering sustainability and alternative fuel vehicles. It also notes Spears Contruction Inc. in charge of solar energy construction and Campbell Certified steel contractors.

The article focuses on the solar incentives being poured into the State of California. It cites the state's tax credit that is larger than the proposed federal credit. Its liberal tax credits for both developers and homeowners are presented in cases like the 254-unit apartment complex developed by William A. Spriggs. The role of California Solar Energy Industries Association (CSEIA) is discussed along with its Calseal program.

Intersect Power has closed a "bespoke" $2.6 billion financing which will support the construction and operation of a 2.2 GW (DC) portfolio of solar assets, along with 1.4 GWh of energy storage capacity in Texas and California. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Looks at the promise of concentrating solar power plants (CSP) such as those of Kramer Junction in California, for generating utility-scale solar power. Operation of Kramer Junction's solar electric generating systems plants; Focus of the company on operational efficiency leading to productivity increases; Competitiveness of CSP with other forms of electricity generation. INSET: CSP Prospects, They Are A-Changin'..

The article reports that the solar business in California is expected to grow due to the looming expiration of the California Solar Initiative program for solar energy system installation. Solar companies Sullivan Solar Power Inc. and Borrego Solar Systems Inc. are developing recruitment plans to prepare for the solar business surge. Daniel Sullivan, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Sullivan Solar Power, discusses the success of the program which is set to end by July 1, 2017.

This article reports on the letter of intent signed by ICP Solar Technologies Inc. with EPOD Solar Inc. for a possible merger. The strategic partners of EPOD include Peterborough Utilities Inc., Northland Power, and Aecon Construction. Particular focus is given to EPOD's solar panel manufacturing facility in Hayward, California. ICP Solar Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sass Peress says the potential merger deal with EPOD presents a great opportunity for the shareholders of both firms and move ICP further along its new strategic direction.

The article focuses on Akeena Solar, designer and installer of solar system headquartered in Los Gatos, California. Founded in 2001 by Barry Cinnamon, the company has become one of the largest residential and commercial installers in the U.S., according to the author. Jose Tengco, director of communications, highlights the role of the company as an innovator since its inception. It employs 140 people and has completed projects in seven estates. The company's work are residential, commercial, and public works.

The article focuses on e5 Clean Energy of Agoura Hills, California, an emerging company in the growing solar energy market. The company offers a wide range of integrated solar solutions. According to e5 Clean Energy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ronald Means, a key barrier to purchasing, installing and maintaining solar energy systems for most businesses is the capital cost. He cites the advantages of the company's solar solutions.

The article reports on the commercial installations of photovoltaic considered by various solar electric companies in San Diego, California. Among the companies installing such systems are Qualcomm Inc. and Solarscape Artistry Inc. Information about the California Solar Initiative and the Assembly Bill 920 is also provided.

The article offers updates on the California-based solar industry including the San Diego-based Sequoia Solar Inc. and the El Cajon-based Borrego Solar Systems Inc. Marty Reed, Sequoia Solar chief executive officer (CEO), says the company has installed six commercial projects in the fourth quarter of 2009 and the first quarter of 2010 including the EV Project. It notes that Borrego also focuses on commercial solar projects and has installed more than 1,000 solar photovoltaic projects.

The article reports that solar energy has exceeded wind energy in California in 2015. Topics covered include the increase in the demand for solar energy in the state and the establishment of the Renewable Portfolio Standard in California in 2002. Also mentioned is the aim of the state to improve its energy system.

The article reports on the employment growth in the advanced energy industry of California, according to the Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) Institute. Topics discussed include the estimated number of workers employed by the industry as of 2015, AEE reporting that the biggest increase in the number of jobs occurred in the advanced generation segment, with solar energy accounting for nearly 80 percent of employment, and a comparison of advanced energy employment with other California industries.

Under the proposal in California, solar panel owners would pay a one-time connection fee of about $75 to $150 and other small fees to fund low-income and energy efficiency programs, according to the administrative law judge's filing. California utility owners PG&E, Edison International and Sempra Energy had asked the state to increase fees and cut payments to power-generating customers, arguing that customers who don't have solar shouldn't subsidize those who do. [Extracted from the article]

Reports on the campaign of Pyron Solar Inc. to gather enough financial support to start production on a new kind of solar electric generator in La Jolla, California. Function of the new product in conjunction with traditional photovoltaic panels; Solicitation made by the company to the San Diego Regional Energy Office and the Navy for private placement offerings; Concentration of the company on the new product and the need for renewable energy.

Reports on the impact of the so-called Million Solar Roofs bill, which is awaiting final approval by the Assembly, on the solar industry in California. Proposal for the revamp of the state's current solar roof rebate program; Stipulation under the bill; Demand of solar companies for financial incentives in installing solar roofs.

Reports several events concerning wind turbines/generators in Denmark and the United States and a solar energy powerplant in California as November 1999. Description of a wind turbine/generator developed in Denmark; Problems confronting the wind industry in the United States; Demonstration on converting solar energy at Solar Two powerplant in Barstow, California and its effect on the solar electric applications industry.

Highlights from the article: The Golden State has historically led the nation with the highest installed solar capacity (with nearly 45% of all homes incorporating solar power), although Nevada, Texas, and Arizona continue to gain ground. Thanks to a new mandate, starting Jan. 1, 2020, California will continue its tradition as a renewables trailblazer when it becomes the first state in the country to require rooftop solar on all new-home construction.

The law requires the California Public Utilities Commission to solicit proposals from electric companies for "multiyear programs and investments to accelerate widespread transportation electrification to reduce dependence on petroleum". Mary Nichols, who as head of the state's Air Resources Board has helped craft the governor's climate policies, chuckles when asked why the oil companies didn't try to block the electrification language in SB 350. The bottom line: Oil companies beat back consumption limits in California, but now face regulations favoring electric cars over gas models. [Extracted from the article]

Energy-efficiency contractors, renewables industry backed bill The former version of the bill called for doubling the efficiency of all buildings, while the bill approved Friday seeks to "double the energy efficiency savings in electricity and natural gas end uses", according to a legislative analysis. Sarah Rose, chief executive of the California League of Conservation Voters, said in a statement that while she's "deeply disappointed" that the gasoline reduction was taken out of the bill, she nonetheless supported the bill. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports that Southern Power Co., subsidiary of energy provider Southern Co., has acquired the 200-megawatt (MW) Tranquility Solar Facility located in California from Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc. Topics discussed include the views of Southern Co. Chairman Thomas A. Fanning on solar expansion as means of strengthening the industry; the views of Canadian Solar Inc. Chairman Dr. Shawn Qu; on the partnership; and generation of clean solar energy.

The article reports on the failure of the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, a solar power plant that opened near the California-Nevada border in February 2014, to produce the operators' expected annual output.