#Renewable Energy Companies in California

[cals0larinc2]

California Homeowners Must Now Invest in Solar Energy

California recently enacted a solar mandate requiring all new homes to include solar panels. This requirement represents a huge advancement in the fight against climate change, and it will have a considerable impact on the state's energy use.

The Advantages of California's Solar Mandatory

The California Solar Mandatory is a vital step toward combating climate change. The state is taking a proactive approach to decreasing its carbon footprint by forcing all new residences to be built with solar panels. Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of energy that emits no pollutants. This means that the mandate will aid in the reduction of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, benefiting both the environment and public health. Furthermore, solar energy is becoming more cost-effective, so the mandate could help homes reduce their energy expenditures.

The mandate may potentially result in employment creation in the solar industry. More personnel will be needed to install and maintain solar panels as more homes are built with them. This could result in more job possibilities in the solar business, which could improve the economy.

Potential Obstacles to the California Solar Mandatory

While the California Solar Mandate has numerous advantages, it also has certain potential drawbacks that must be addressed. One of the most significant obstacles is the expense. Solar panels are not cheap, and some households may be unable to purchase them. To fix this problem, the state could think about giving incentives or subsidies to help pay for the cost of installing solar panels.

Another potential issue is that some regions may not receive enough sunlight to support solar energy. Other renewable energy sources, such as wind or geothermal energy, should be investigated in certain instances. Furthermore, certain places may have zoning limitations that make installing solar panels difficult. Local governments should explore modifying zoning regulations to make it easier for households to install solar panels to address this issue.

California Renewable Energy Companies

California is at the forefront of renewable energy generation and usage. California has become a hub for renewable energy companies due to its commitment to lowering carbon emissions and boosting the usage of renewable energy sources.

Companies that use geothermal energy

Hydroelectric energy firms sell the equipment required to convert rivers and other flowing water sources into power. Hydroelectric power is becoming more efficient and affordable, making it a viable option for many businesses and homes. Hydroelectric energy users in California can benefit from the state's many rivers and considerable incentives for establishing hydroelectric plants. Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric are some of California's biggest hydroelectric energy firms.

Renewable Energy Advantages

Renewable energy has numerous advantages for both businesses and consumers. The biggest advantage is that you can save money. Renewable energy sources are improving and becoming more affordable, so many businesses and homes may now use them. Also, renewable sources of energy are better for the environment than traditional ones because they pollute the air less and release fewer greenhouse gasses. Lastly, renewable energy sources are more reliable than traditional ones because they can keep making electricity even when there is a lot of demand.

Renewable Energy Companies' Challenges

Even though renewable energy provides many advantages, businesses in California face significant challenges. One of the most difficult problems is managing regulatory obstacles. Renewable energy companies must navigate a complex set of restrictions in order to do business in California. Furthermore, public opposition might be a problem for renewable energy companies in California. Many people are opposed to renewable energy projects because they are concerned about noise, visual damage, or other environmental consequences.

Conclusion

California is at the forefront of renewable energy generation and usage. California has become a hub for renewable energy companies such as CalSolarInc, SunPower, Bloom Energy, Tesla Motors, BrightSource Energy, and Sungevity due to its dedication to lowering carbon emissions and boosting the usage of renewable energy sources. These companies have helped to lower the cost of renewable energy in California, create jobs in the state, and produce creative, more efficient, and cost-effective technology. These enterprises will continue to have a positive impact on California's economy and environment as they grow and extend their operations.

[cals0larinc]

Solar Panels Shining in the Night: Why sprawl won't cut it for California's new buildings

California has recently implemented a new mandate requiring all new buildings to be constructed with solar power capabilities. This mandate is a major step forward in the fight against climate change and will have a positive impact on the environment and the economy. This essay will discuss the benefits of the California Solar Mandate for New Buildings, including its environmental and economic impacts.

The California Solar Mandate for New Buildings is a major step forward in the fight against climate change. By requiring all new buildings to be constructed with solar power capabilities, California is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing its use of renewable energy sources. This will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere, helping to slow the effects of global warming. Additionally, solar energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, meaning it does not produce any harmful pollutants or waste products. This will help to keep the air and water clean and reduce the amount of pollution in California.

The California Solar Mandate for New Buildings will also have a positive economic impact on the state. By requiring all new buildings to be constructed with solar power capabilities, California is creating jobs in the renewable energy sector. This will help to stimulate the economy and create more opportunities for people to find employment. Additionally, solar energy is much cheaper than traditional energy sources, meaning that businesses and homeowners will save money on their energy bills. This will help to reduce costs and increase profits, which will benefit both businesses and consumers.

The California Solar Mandate for New Buildings is a major step forward in the fight against climate change. It will have a positive environmental impact by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Additionally, it will have a positive economic impact by creating jobs in the renewable energy sector and reducing energy costs for businesses and homeowners. The California Solar Mandate for New Buildings is a great example of how states can take action to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future.

The use of solar panels for multifamily dwellings in California has become increasingly popular in recent years. This is due to the numerous benefits that come with installing solar panels, such as reducing energy costs and helping to protect the environment. In this essay, I will discuss two of the main advantages of installing solar panels for multifamily dwellings in California: cost savings and environmental protection.

Installing solar panels for multifamily dwellings in California can provide significant cost savings for residents. Solar panels are able to generate electricity from the sun’s energy, which can be used to power a variety of appliances and devices. This means that residents no longer have to rely on traditional sources of energy, such as electricity from the grid, which can be expensive. Additionally, solar panels are eligible for various incentives and tax credits, which can further reduce the cost of installation and maintenance.

Furthermore, solar panels can help reduce energy costs in the long run. By generating their own electricity, residents can reduce their reliance on traditional sources of energy, which can lead to lower energy bills. Additionally, solar panels can be used to store excess energy, which can be used during times when traditional sources of energy are more expensive. This means that residents can save money by using solar energy instead of traditional sources of energy.

In addition to providing cost savings, installing solar panels for multifamily in California can also help protect the environment. Solar panels are a clean source of energy, meaning that they do not produce any harmful emissions of pollutants. This means that they can help reduce air pollution and other environmental issues associated with traditional sources of energy. Additionally, solar panels can help reduce the amount of energy that is wasted, as they are able to capture and store excess energy that would otherwise be lost.

Furthermore, solar panels can help reduce the amount of water that is used for energy production. Traditional sources of energy often require large amounts of water for cooling and other processes, but solar panels do not require any water for their operation. This means that they can help conserve water resources and reduce the strain on local water supplies.

In conclusion, installing solar panels for multi-family dwellings in California can provide numerous benefits, including cost savings and environmental protection. Solar panels can generate electricity from the sun’s energy, which can be used to power various appliances and devices. Additionally, they are eligible for various incentives and tax credits, which can further reduce the cost of installation and maintenance. Furthermore, solar panels are a clean energy source, meaning they do not produce any harmful emissions or pollutants. For these reasons, installing solar panels for multi-family dwellings in California is an excellent way to save money and protect the environment.

[calsolarinc0]

Why is California the solar energy leader?

People know that California is very serious about using clean energy and fighting climate change. As a result, many California residents want to use solar power in their homes and businesses. Because it can be done on a larger scale and often has lower costs per unit, California multifamily solar is a great option for people who live in apartments or condos.

Solar power for multiple homes has many benefits, such as lower energy bills, less pollution, and higher property values. Solar energy can also instil a sense of community pride and environmental responsibility in people.

One of the most compelling reasons to go solar is to save money. Solar panels can help people in apartments and condos save money on their energy bills by eliminating the need to pay the utility company for electricity. Sometimes the savings are substantial, reaching 50% or more.

Going solar can also add value to your home. According to a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar panels sold 20% faster and for 17% more money than homes without solar panels.

Solar energy is also beneficial to the environment. Solar panels make clean, renewable energy that doesn't pollute the environment or release harmful greenhouse gases. According to one study, going solar can offset the pollution of up to two cars.

One of the primary reasons why solar is an excellent choice for multifamily homes is that it can save residents a significant amount of money. Solar panels can make up for a big chunk of the electricity a home uses, which can lower a person's monthly bill. Solar panels can also increase the value of a home, which benefits both landlords and renters.

In addition to saving money, solar energy can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the environment in other ways. Solar panels can replace a large portion of the electricity generated by fossil fuels. This can help reduce air pollution and other negative environmental effects. Because solar energy does not require water to function, it can also help save water.

Solar heating and lighting for multiple homes are becoming increasingly popular. Many multifamily solar developers are attempting to establish themselves in California. California multifamily solar saves money on energy bills for all types of homes, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes.

Many California developers see multifamily solar as a promising new market. Solar roofs, ground-mounted solar panels, and hot water systems are just a few of the ways that multi-family developers can power their homes. In California, multifamily solar has many advantages over traditional methods of heating and cooling homes, including lower energy bills and less pollution from running appliances.

Solar heating and cooling have numerous advantages over traditional methods. One reason is that multifamily homes require less maintenance than single-family homes. Furthermore, because multifamily homes do not require In California, heating and cooling homes with California multifamily solar have many advantages over traditional methods, such as lower energy bills and less pollution from running appliances the solar choice for developers looking to reduce energy costs without changing the appearance of their homes.

Multifamily solar is becoming more popular in California as a means of obtaining solar energy. California multifamily solar is becoming a more important way to obtain solar energy as the population grows and more buildings are constructed.

Solar power is becoming increasingly popular in multifamily homes in California. Solar panels are installed on the roofs of these structures. They collect solar energy and convert it into electricity for the owner or occupant. Despite the fact that solar power is still in its early stages, California Multifamily Solar has demonstrated that it has the potential to be a good source of renewable energy for multifamily housing.

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular, and an increasing number of people want to use it in their homes. California is one of the states where solar energy has grown significantly. This is primarily due to the state's growing population, and more people want to use green energy.

With 278 installations in the last year alone, multifamily housing is one of the most common places where solar power is used. This growth isn't too surprising, since apartment buildings are usually built closer together than single-family homes, which makes them perfect places for solar panels.

Solar energy is a popular choice for multifamily housing buildings because it is simple to install and can be used by people across the country.

Solar power is an excellent way for California residents to save money while also helping the environment. With all of its advantages, solar power is certain to grow in popularity in the coming years.

[calsolarinc1]

Everything You Need to Know About California's New Solar Construction Mandate | {CalSolarInc}

California Governor Jerry Brown recently signed legislation that mandates all new homes have solar photovoltaic systems built into their roofs. This law, however, only applies to single-family homes and apartments built after January 1, 2020, so there's still time to plan around it if you're building or selling houses in the Golden State. Here's everything you need to know about California's new solar construction mandate and what it means for homeowners and real estate professionals.

The California new construction solar mandate, which will be enforced by 2020, is not a hard and fast rule. It only applies to new construction homes on sites where the zoning allows for solar power systems. Local agencies can request an exemption if they believe that it doesn't comply with their local ordinances or due to high costs. A few communities have already been granted exemptions, including Glendale and Burbank in Los Angeles County. There are some concerns about the solar requirement as it relates to air quality because of how electricity may shift from natural gas to coal plants; but as of now, there isn’t enough evidence linking this change in energy sources with any adverse health effects. 

California new construction solar mandate in the state must include solar panels on their rooftops or carports by 2020. There are, however, a few exceptions: 

1) projects that exceed 2,000 square feet and cost more than $2 million 

2) buildings with plans for net-zero energy production 

3) other homes that do not have space or inclination for installation. With these rules in place, developers will now be able to factor the savings from lower electric bills into the project’s financial return on investment.

The California Energy Commission estimates that it will save consumers around $5 billion annually from reduced electricity rates. The California new construction solar mandate is expected to help meet Gov. Jerry Brown’s goal of generating 50% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. At this rate, the Golden State may achieve its ambitious goal a decade ahead of schedule. Critics fear that the measure could raise housing prices as well as result in fewer jobs for blue collar workers who would otherwise construct non-solar buildings. Despite these concerns, many residents still support the measure because they see it as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.

The California new construction solar mandate is going to require solar installation contractors and home builders in the state  to have at least 15% of new residential construction projects set up with rooftop solar. This makes it mandatory for companies and agencies that sell, install, and design solar power systems in the Golden State to make a certain amount of their work accessible through third-party power purchase agreements. This is an expansion on a previous law enacted by the state in 2008 requiring solar panels on the top 5% of all new buildings by 2020. It was found that this would not be enough, so in order to continue meeting renewable energy goals, they upped the ante and made this change. These goals are part of California’s statewide 2030 plan which has been designed with climate change in mind. As such, anyone who does not comply will be subject to fines between $100-$500 per day until they get their act together or apply for an exemption from enforcement.

With a solar PV system installed on your home, you can expect your electricity bills to decrease dramatically. If you install a 5-kW system on your home, for example, we found that you could reduce your electricity bill by an average of $150/month or $1,800/year. Those savings may increase over time as electric rates continue to climb and the federal tax credit continues through 2019. In some cases, homeowners have even reported saving close to $300-$400/month! Additionally, this initial investment pays off in 10 years and starts generating money after that point. Plus, with our SolarLease program, all homeowners are eligible for no upfront cost installation!

If you are still on the fence about getting solar panels, it is important to remember that this California new construction mandate is for new constructions only. This means that if you're considering putting solar panels on your roof or in your yard for any other reason, this legislation will not affect you. If you are thinking about buying a new home, talk with your realtor about whether the location has homes for sale with solar installed and is part of a net-metering program. Talk with your builder and architect before building so they can design the property to take advantage of renewable energy sources like sun and wind. And, lastly, know that now more than ever there are many different ways homeowners can go solar, from rooftop installations to community arrays.

Now that the standards have been updated, we're getting close to having an effective and enforceable solar mandate. Starting in 2020, all homes being built or substantially renovated in California will be required to include solar systems on their roofs. 

The California new construction solar mandate requires that 15% of all new residential rooftops in the state must include solar arrays by 2020. Additionally, by 2025, there will be a minimum requirement of 12.5% of residences with rooftop solar arrays or other types of solar installations. There are exceptions for homes with difficult-to-treat roofs, and those in certain parts of the state where space constraints make it difficult to install solar panels. There is also a zero net energy standard which requires all newly constructed residential buildings, as well as commercial buildings three stories tall or less, to produce more electricity than they consume each year. 

[calsolarinc]

How is California Multifamily Solar Energy Becoming More Popular?

The majority of California multifamily housing is owned and operated by non-profit corporations, and the majority of these are for-profit entities. California multifamily solar and energy efficiency programs are essentially funded by the California Energy Commission (CEC). The CEC is a government agency that administers the state to protect and promote the public interest in the relevant field of energy and environmental conservation. The CEC is responsible for the reliability of the state's energy supply, the conservation of energy, and the protection of the environment. The CEC also received over $1 billion in funding from the state's general fund in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2017. The CEC has a broad mandate to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy conservation in California.

The CEC has been carrying out a multifamily energy efficiency program since 1999. The CEC's multifamily energy efficiency program is funded by the state and the CEC has a right to approve the use of funds. The CEC requires that the programs be carried out by non-profit organizations that are registered with the CEC. Solar panels are installed on multifamily housing that is used for the production of energy and/or for the production of hot water. The CEC requires that the energy efficiency program be carried out by a non-profit organization that is registered with the CEC. 

Solar panels can help you save money on your energy bills, reduce emissions of greenhouse gasses, and reduce your carbon footprint. The CEC's multifamily energy efficiency program is funded by the state and the CEC has a right to approve the use of funds. California has a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires the state to produce a certain percentage of its energy from renewable sources by 2025. California multifamily solar energy programs are required to meet the state's RPS. Regulators require that the programs be carried out by non-profit organizations.

There are several ways to generate energy on your multifamily property, including using solar panels and installing a solar hot water system. California’s multifamily energy efficiency programs are required to meet the state’s RPS. Regulators require that the programs be carried out by non-profit organizations.

In California, multifamily buildings are required to have a qualified renewable energy system under the California RPS. California multifamily solar contractors must be licensed to provide such installations, and the number of solar contractors has been on the rise as the programs become more popular.

The CEC has been carrying out a multifamily energy efficiency program since 1999. The CEC’s multifamily energy efficiency program is funded by the state and the CEC has a right to approve the use of funds. California has a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires the state to produce a certain percentage of its energy from renewable sources by 2025. California multifamily solar energy programs are required to meet the state’s RPS.

The future of California multifamily solar follows a path similar to that taken by commercial and industrial customers. It typically starts with an RFP, followed by the solicitation of quotes, tenders, and award, and ends with a signed contract. This five-step process is the same regardless of whether the electricity is being scaled up on-site or off-site. The final step in each process is for the contractor to meet the program goals, or in other words, to perform as expected.

The California RPS mandates that 20% of California’s energy come from renewable sources by 2025. The CEC\’s multifamily solar contractor program is required to meet the state\’s RPS.

Many California multifamily solar projects have been installed, particularly in the Bay Area, where there were more than 1,700 multifamily buildings with solar capacity as of July 2019.

[reasonsforhope]

Green energy is in its heyday. 

Renewable energy sources now account for 22% of the nation’s electricity, and solar has skyrocketed eight times over in the last decade. This spring in California, wind, water, and solar power energy sources exceeded expectations, accounting for an average of 61.5 percent of the state's electricity demand across 52 days. 

But green energy has a lithium problem. Lithium batteries control more than 90% of the global grid battery storage market. 

That’s not just cell phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, and tools. Scooters, e-bikes, hybrids, and electric vehicles all rely on rechargeable lithium batteries to get going. 

Fortunately, this past week, Natron Energy launched its first-ever commercial-scale production of sodium-ion batteries in the U.S. 

“Sodium-ion batteries offer a unique alternative to lithium-ion, with higher power, faster recharge, longer lifecycle and a completely safe and stable chemistry,” said Colin Wessells — Natron Founder and Co-CEO — at the kick-off event in Michigan. 

The new sodium-ion batteries charge and discharge at rates 10 times faster than lithium-ion, with an estimated lifespan of 50,000 cycles.

Wessells said that using sodium as a primary mineral alternative eliminates industry-wide issues of worker negligence, geopolitical disruption, and the “questionable environmental impacts” inextricably linked to lithium mining. 

“The electrification of our economy is dependent on the development and production of new, innovative energy storage solutions,” Wessells said. 

Why are sodium batteries a better alternative to lithium?

The birth and death cycle of lithium is shadowed in environmental destruction. The process of extracting lithium pollutes the water, air, and soil, and when it’s eventually discarded, the flammable batteries are prone to bursting into flames and burning out in landfills. 

There’s also a human cost. Lithium-ion materials like cobalt and nickel are not only harder to source and procure, but their supply chains are also overwhelmingly attributed to hazardous working conditions and child labor law violations. 

Sodium, on the other hand, is estimated to be 1,000 times more abundant in the earth’s crust than lithium. 

“Unlike lithium, sodium can be produced from an abundant material: salt,” engineer Casey Crownhart wrote ​​in the MIT Technology Review. “Because the raw ingredients are cheap and widely available, there’s potential for sodium-ion batteries to be significantly less expensive than their lithium-ion counterparts if more companies start making more of them.”

What will these batteries be used for?

Right now, Natron has its focus set on AI models and data storage centers, which consume hefty amounts of energy. In 2023, the MIT Technology Review reported that one AI model can emit more than 626,00 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent. 

“We expect our battery solutions will be used to power the explosive growth in data centers used for Artificial Intelligence,” said Wendell Brooks, co-CEO of Natron. 

“With the start of commercial-scale production here in Michigan, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for efficient, safe, and reliable battery energy storage.”

The fast-charging energy alternative also has limitless potential on a consumer level, and Natron is eying telecommunications and EV fast-charging once it begins servicing AI data storage centers in June. 

On a larger scale, sodium-ion batteries could radically change the manufacturing and production sectors — from housing energy to lower electricity costs in warehouses, to charging backup stations and powering electric vehicles, trucks, forklifts, and so on. 

“I founded Natron because we saw climate change as the defining problem of our time,” Wessells said. “We believe batteries have a role to play.”

-via GoodGoodGood, May 3, 2024

--

Note: I wanted to make sure this was legit (scientifically and in general), and I'm happy to report that it really is! x, x, x, x

[synergytop]

If your website is missing any of these elements, consider getting your site revamped. 

Have questions? Want to share more vital elements for websites in the renewable energy niche? Get the conversation started in the comments!

[mindblowingscience]

Almost two centuries after California's gold rush, the United States is on the brink of a lithium rush. As demand for the material skyrockets, government geologists are rushing to figure out where the precious element is hiding. In September 2023, scientists funded by a mining company reported finding what could be the largest deposit of lithium in an ancient US supervolcano. Now public researchers on the other side of the country have uncovered another untapped reservoir – one that could cover nearly half the nation's lithium demands. It's hiding in wastewater from Pennsylvania's gas fracking industry. Lithium is arguably the most important element in the nation's renewable energy transition – the material of choice for electric vehicle batteries. And yet, there is but one large-scale lithium mine in the US, meaning for the moment the country has to import what it needs.

Continue Reading.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Grist:

California’s utilities regulator adopted new rules for community solar projects on Friday, despite warnings from clean energy advocates that the move will actually undercut efforts to expand solar power options for low-income customers.

The state’s biggest utility companies advocated for the new rules.

Community solar projects are generally small-scale, local solar arrays that can serve renters and homeowners who can’t afford to install their own rooftop solar panels. They are one part of the state’s overall strategy to eventually run the power grid entirely by renewable energy.

The California Public Utilities Commission’s 3-1 ruling preserves and expands programs that will allow any ratepayer to subscribe to a pool of projects and receive a 20 percent rate reduction, said Commission President Alice Reynolds. But it also reduces future compensation for solar providers and residents.

The commission calculates the benefits derived from distributed, small-scale solar power projects, which provide a “service” by sending clean energy to the power grid and reducing transmission costs by serving nearby communities. Solar developers are compensated for the value of the benefit their project provides.

The formula adopted this week essentially reduces the value of distributed small-scale renewable energy in the future, providing less of an incentive for new community solar projects to be built.

In the near term, the subsidies and incentives that help promote community solar installation will remain in place, paid for by a recent $250 million grant California received under the federal Solar For All program.

One of the concerns for solar advocates is what happens after that pot of funding runs out and the financial incentive to develop solar evaporates.

“The foundations of a sustainable program should not be built on one-time money,” said Derek Chernow, Western Regional Director for the Coalition for Community Solar Access.

[mariacallous]

This story originally appeared on Grist and is part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

On a 20-acre parcel outside the tiny Southern California town of New Cuyama, a 1.5-megawatt solar farm uses the sun’s rays to slowly charge nearly 600 batteries in nearby cabinets. At night, when energy demand rises, that electricity is sent to the grid to power homes with clean energy.

To make renewable energy from intermittent sources like solar and wind available when it is most needed, it’s becoming more common to use batteries to store the power as it’s generated and transmit it later. But one thing about the Cuyama facility, which began operations this month, is less common: The batteries sending energy to the grid once powered electric vehicles.

The SEPV Cuyama facility, located about two hours northeast of Santa Barbara, is the second hybrid storage facility opened by B2U Storage Solutions. Its first facility, just outside Los Angeles, uses 1,300 retired batteries from Honda Clarity and Nissan Leaf EVs to store 28 megawatt-hours of power, enough to power about 9,500 homes.

The facilities are meant to prove the feasibility of giving EV batteries a second life as stationary storage before they are recycled. Doing so could increase the sustainability of the technology’s supply chain and reduce the need to mine critical minerals, while providing a cheaper way of building out grid-scale storage.

“This is what’s needed at massive scale,” said Freeman Hall, CEO of the Los Angeles-based large-scale storage system company.

Electric vehicle batteries are typically replaced when they reach 70 to 80 percent of their capacity, largely because the range they provide at that point begins to dwindle. Almost all of the critical materials inside them, including lithium, nickel, and cobalt, are reusable. A growing domestic recycling industry, supported by billions of dollars in loans from the Energy Department and incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, is being built to prepare for what will one day be tens of millions of retired EV battery packs.

Before they are disassembled, however, studies show that around three-quarters of decommissioned packs are suitable for a second life as stationary storage. (Some packs may not have enough life left in them, are too damaged from a collision, or are otherwise faulty.)

“We were seeing the first generation of EVs end their time on the road, and 70 percent or more of those batteries have very strong residual value,” said Hall. “That should be utilized before all those batteries are recycled, and we’re just deferring recycling by three, four, or five years.”

Extending the useful life of EV batteries mitigates the impact of manufacturing them, said Maria Chavez, energy analyst at the Union of Concerned Scientists.

“The whole point of trying to deploy electric vehicles is to reduce emissions and reduce the negative impacts of things like manufacturing and extractive processes on our environment and our communities,” Chavez told Grist. “By extending the life of a battery, we reduce the need for further exploitation of our natural resources, we reduce the demand for raw materials, and we generally encourage a more sustainable process.”

Just as batteries have become crucial to reducing emissions from transportation, they’re also needed to fully realize the benefits of clean energy. Without stationary storage, wind and solar power can only feed the grid when the wind is blowing or the sun is shining.

“Being able to store it and use it when it’s most needed is a really important way to meet our energy needs,” Chavez said.

The use of utility-scale battery storage is expected to skyrocket, from 1.5 gigawatts of capacity in 2020 to 30 gigawatts by 2025. EV packs could provide a stockpile for that buildout. Hall said there are already at least 3 gigawatt-hours of decommissioned EV packs sitting around in the United States that could be deployed, and that the volume of them being removed from cars is doubling every two years.

“We’re going from a trickle when we started four years ago to a flood of batteries that are coming,” he said.

B2U says its technology allows batteries to be repurposed in a nearly “plug-and-play fashion.” They do not need to be disassembled, and units from multiple manufacturers—B2U has tested batteries from Honda, Nissan, Tesla, GM, and Ford—can be used in one system.

The packs are stored in large cabinets and managed with proprietary software, which monitors their safety and discharges and charges each battery based on its capacity. The batteries charge during the day from both the solar panels and the grid. Then B2U sells that power to utilities at night, when demand and prices are much higher.

Hall said using second-life batteries earns the same financial return as new grid-scale batteries at half the initial cost, and that for now, repurposing the packs is more lucrative for automakers than sending them straight to recyclers. Until the recycling industry grows, it’s still quite expensive to recycle them. By selling or leasing retired packs to a grid storage company, said Hall, manufacturers can squeeze more value out of them.

That could even help drive down the cost of electric vehicles, he added. “The actual cost of leasing a battery on wheels should go down if the full value of the battery is enhanced and reused,” he said. “Everybody wins when we do reuse in a smart fashion.”

B2U expects to add storage to a third solar facility near Palmdale next year. The facilities are meant to prove that the idea works, after which B2U plans to sell its hardware and software to other storage-project developers.

At the moment, though, planned deployment of the technology is limited. B2U predicts only about 6 percent of decommissioned EV batteries in the US will be used for grid-scale storage by 2027.

“People are skeptical, and they should be, because it’s hard to do reuse of batteries,” said Hall. “But we’ve got a robust data set that does prove reliability, performance, and profitability. We’re at a point where we really can scale this.”

[cals0larinc2]

Everything You Need To Know About Solar Energy Contractors in California

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular in California, with many homeowners and businesses turning to solar energy contractors to help them make the switch. Solar energy contractors provide a variety of services, from designing and installing solar systems to providing maintenance and repair services.

Benefits of Solar Energy Contractors

Solar energy contractors offer a number of benefits to homeowners and businesses in California. One of the most important benefits is that they can provide expert advice on the best type of solar system for a particular location. They can also provide advice on the most cost-effective way to install a system, as well as the best way to maintain it. Additionally, solar energy contractors can provide access to financing options, such as tax credits and rebates, which can help reduce the cost of installation.

Challenges Faced by Solar Energy Contractors

Despite the many benefits of using solar energy contractors, there are also some challenges they face. One of the most significant challenges is that solar systems require a significant upfront investment, which can be difficult for some homeowners and businesses to afford. Additionally, solar energy contractors must be knowledgeable about the latest technologies and regulations in order to ensure that their systems are up to code. Finally, solar energy contractors must be able to compete with other contractors in order to remain competitive in the market.

Solar energy contractors in California offer a number of benefits, including expert advice on the best type of system for a particular location, access to financing options, and ongoing maintenance and repair services. However, they also face some challenges, such as the need for a significant upfront investment and the need to remain competitive in the market. Despite these challenges, solar energy contractors can be an invaluable resource for homeowners and businesses looking to make the switch to solar energy.

Title 24 California

Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations is an important set of regulations that govern the construction and safety of buildings in the state of California. This set of regulations is designed to ensure that all buildings are safe and up to code, and it is essential for any construction project in the state.

The Requirements of Title 24

Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations sets forth a number of requirements for the construction of buildings in the state. These requirements include things like fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility. For example, all buildings must have fire sprinklers, smoke detectors, and fire-resistant materials. Additionally, all buildings must meet certain energy efficiency standards, such as using energy-efficient lighting and insulation. Finally, all buildings must be accessible to people with disabilities, including providing ramps and elevators.

The Impact of Title 24

The requirements set forth by Title 24 have had a significant impact on the construction industry in California. For starters, it has made construction projects more expensive, as builders must now use more expensive materials and take additional steps to ensure that their projects meet the requirements of Title 24. Additionally, it has made it more difficult for builders to get their projects approved, as they must now provide detailed plans that show how they will meet the requirements of Title 24. Finally, it has made it easier for people to know that their buildings are safe and up to code, as they can be sure that they meet the requirements set forth by Title 24 California.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations is an important set of regulations that govern the construction and safety of buildings in the state of California. It sets forth a number of requirements for builders to follow, including fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility. These requirements have had a significant impact on the construction industry in California, making projects more expensive and difficult to get approved, but also making it easier for people to know that their buildings are safe and up to code.

[cals0larinc]

California solar tenants brace themselves for a costly rule change that will result in sky-high electricity bills

California is a leader in renewable energy, and solar energy is one of the most popular renewable energy sources in the state. Solar tenant billing is an integral part of the solar energy business because it lets tenants use the electricity that their landlord's solar system makes. This essay will talk about the benefits of solar tenant billing in California, as well as any problems that might come up as a result of it being used.

Solar tenant billing lets renters use their landlord's solar system instead of buying their own. Tenants can get credits on their power bills for the energy generated by their landlord's solar system, which can help them save money on their monthly energy bills. Furthermore, solar tenant billing can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the building by encouraging renters to use less electricity as a result of the credits they receive. This can help to lower the building's environmental effect as well as the overall cost of electricity for the tenants.

Another advantage of solar tenant billing is that it might help to raise the building's value. Landlords who install solar systems on their properties may be eligible for tax credits or other incentives, which can assist to raise the value of the property. Furthermore, tenants may be more likely to rent from a landlord that provides solar tenant billing because it might help them save money on their monthly electricity bills. This can serve to raise demand for rental apartments in the building, hence increasing the building's worth over time.

While there are numerous advantages to California solar tenant billing, there are some potential drawbacks to its implementation. One potential issue is that measuring and tracking the energy produced by a landlord's solar system can be challenging. This might make it difficult for tenants to collect proper credits on their power bills because determining how much energy they are receiving from their landlord's solar system can be tricky. Furthermore, due to the cost and complexity of installation and maintenance, landlords may be unwilling to install solar systems on their properties.

Another potential issue is that tenants may be unaware of the benefits of solar tenant billing or may be confused about how it works. Tenants may become confused and frustrated as a result of this, as they may not understand why they are receiving credits on their electricity bills or how much they are receiving. Furthermore, landlords may be unaware of all of the possible benefits of solar tenant billing, resulting in them failing to capitalize on all of the potential savings that can be realized through its implementation.

California solar tenant billing allows tenants to benefit from their landlord's solar system without investing in their own. It can help to cut tenants' monthly electricity expenditures as well as the building's total carbon footprint. It can also help to raise the value of the structure over time. However, some possible obstacles may occur as a result of its adoption, such as difficulty accurately measuring and tracking energy production and renters being unaware of its benefits. Despite these obstacles, solar tenant billing is a significant aspect of California's renewable energy economy and should be addressed by both landlords and tenants.

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular as an energy source for multifamily dwellings in California. With the state's dedication to renewable energy, solar panels are an excellent method to save money on energy while also helping the environment. This essay will go through the advantages of installing solar panels for multi-family dwellings in California, as well as the potential drawbacks.

Solar panels are an excellent option for multifamily buildings in California to cut energy expenditures. Residents can save money on their monthly energy costs and minimize their carbon footprint by employing solar energy. Furthermore, solar panels are generally simple to install and maintain, making them an affordable choice for many multifamily dwellings. Solar panels can also raise the value of a home, making them an appealing alternative for landlords and investors.

Another advantage of solar panels is that they can supply a consistent source of electricity during power disruptions. This is especially relevant in California, where power disruptions are becoming more prevalent as a result of harsh weather. Residents can be safe and comfortable during these disruptions if they have a stable source of electricity.

Although solar panels provide numerous advantages, there are also potential drawbacks. The initial cost of installation is one of the most difficult issues. Solar panels can be costly to install and may be out of reach for some multifamily dwellings. Furthermore, solar panels necessitate routine maintenance and upkeep, which may be time-consuming and costly.

Another potential issue is that solar panels may not be appropriate for all types of multifamily housing. Some buildings, for example, may not have enough room for solar panels or may not receive enough sunlight to be useful. Furthermore, due to municipal rules, some structures may have limits on installing solar panels.

Installing solar panels for multifamily in California can be an excellent way to save money on energy while also helping the environment. However, some possible issues may occur, such as the initial expense of installation and the requirement for ongoing maintenance. Before selecting to install solar panels in multifamily housing, it is critical to evaluate these potential issues. Solar panels can be a terrific method to cut energy bills and protect the environment in California with careful planning and attention.

[calsolarinc0]

California Title 24: Energy Standards for Buildings and Other Structures

The energy code in Title 24 is cost-effective for both consumers and businesses. The code reduces energy consumption, saving consumers and businesses money. The code also helps to protect the environment by creating jobs in the construction and energy industries.

Consumers can save money because the code can reduce energy usage. The code is also cost-effective for businesses because it creates jobs in the construction and energy sectors.

The code benefits the environment by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. A building code also helps protect the environment by setting rules for how energy-efficient buildings and old buildings should be built and fixed up.

The Title 24 California Energy Code is one of the most stringent and comprehensive in the United States. The code sets rules for how buildings should be built and run so that they use less energy and release fewer greenhouse gases.

The Building Energy Efficiency Standards (BEES) and the California Energy Commission (CEC) standards are separated in Title 24. The BEES sets the minimum requirements for building a new building. The CEC standards, on the other hand, apply to both new and old buildings.

The goal of Title 24 California is to reduce energy consumption in buildings by 30% by 2020. This will save consumers money, create jobs in the construction and energy industries, and aid in environmental protection.

One of the most important pieces of legislation relating to energy efficiency and building performance is California's Title 24 energy code. The code establishes minimum requirements for how buildings in the state can be built and operated in order to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

The most important parts of the code are the requirements for energy-efficient building envelope design, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and water conservation. The code is always being changed to take into account the latest energy-saving technologies. It has been a big part of the state's ability to cut down on how much energy it uses.

One of the most important parts of the Title 24 California energy code is the requirement for a building envelope that saves energy. The building envelope is the layer that separates the inside from the outside of a structure. It consists of the walls, the roof, the windows, and the doors.

An energy-efficient building envelope helps keep the inside comfortable while using the least amount of energy possible. This is accomplished by preventing heat loss in the winter and gaining it in the summer. Buildings must meet certain requirements for insulation, airtightness, and glazing in order to be code-compliant.

The Title 24 California Energy Code is one of the most stringent and comprehensive in the country. The code says how energy-efficient buildings in the state must be when they are built and run. The code is updated every three years to make sure it is up to date with the newest technologies and methods for saving energy.

The building energy efficiency standards (BEES) and the California Energy Commission (CEC) standards are separated in the code. The BEES must be used for all new buildings and major renovations, but the CEC Standards are not required for existing buildings.

The code specifies the following requirements:

Windows and insulation

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

Lighting

Appliances for heating water

Energy from renewable sources

The code is meant to reach a number of goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging the use of renewable energy.

Title 24 of California's energy code is one of the most important and far-reaching energy codes in the country. The code establishes minimum requirements for building energy efficiency in California. Every three years, Title 24 California is changed, and the most recent change was in 2016. The code is split into two sections: Building Energy Efficiency Standards (BEES) and Appliance Efficiency Regulations (AER).

The BEES specifies minimum energy efficiency requirements for new and renovated buildings. The standards cover a variety of topics, such as the building envelope, HVAC, lighting, and water heating. The AER sets minimum standards for how efficient appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and clothes washers need to be.

The 2016 code contains several significant changes from the previous code. The most important change might be the need for all new buildings to be zero net energy (ZNE) by 2030. This means that the building must generate as much energy as it consumes each year. The code also has new rules for charging stations for electric cars and making renewable energy on-site.

[calsolarinc1]

Looking to make the switch to renewable energy? Check out these top renewable energy companies in California!

There are many reasons why people choose to switch to renewable energy, and California has some of the best companies in the nation that offer this service. Whether you want to reduce your carbon footprint or save money on your monthly energy bill, you can feel confident knowing that these top renewable energy companies are putting the needs of their customers first when it comes to this important decision. Here are three of the best renewable energy companies in California! CalSolarInc

The Pros

Many people around the country are interested in switching over to clean and green forms of energy, but don't know where to begin. Luckily, there are a variety of renewable energy companies in California that can help you find the best fit for your home or business needs. If you want solar power, there's CalSolarInc or Solar & Wind Power. Wind power is available with Eco-Electric or West Coast Wind Power. There are also geothermal options from Skyline Geothermal Inc., as well as biomass products from Sustainable Energy Partners. Another option for those who don't want to install anything themselves is Sunhome Solar Electric, which installs systems on homes free of charge. For businesses looking to go green, TREC has the perfect solution: wind turbine leasing. Basically, you pay a monthly fee for all the electricity you need without having to buy equipment up front. You might be wondering why this is an attractive option: one reason is because it takes just 15 years until all costs have been recouped; after that time period, electricity rates are fixed at about 2 cents per kilowatt hour.

The Cons

Solar panels are expensive upfront. In addition, solar panels are generally not eligible for utility incentives or tax credits, which may be able to offset some of the cost. It is still important to check with your local utility and other state-level policies on whether solar power makes sense for you. Solar panels take up a lot of space on roofs and can decrease their value. Additionally, solar power is only able to work when there is ample sunlight present - so if you live in an area that experiences cloudy days or less sun than other parts of California, this may not be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you want to install solar panels but don't have enough room on your roof, it's possible to use ground mounted installations. These systems use tracking devices that follow the sun as it moves across the sky, maximizing efficiency and production of electricity.

The top five renewable energy companies in California are as follows:

1. CalSolarInc – Combining solar panels and wall mounting hardware, CalSolarInc is committed to making a difference. 

2. West Coast Solar - Since 1984, West Coast Solar has been assisting residential customers with installing solar power for their homes. 

3. Clean Power Finance - A leader in creating clean-energy financing solutions, Clean Power Finance provides clients with comprehensive clean-energy project management services from start to finish. 

4. First Solar - With over 19 years of experience, First Solar specializes in large-scale photovoltaic systems, both utility-scale and commercial & industrial applications. 

5. SOLAR LABS America - Offering solar PV systems and other clean-energy products at competitive prices, SOLAR LABS America employs knowledgeable sales representatives who are able to assist you with any questions you may have about the installation process or the performance of our products!

CalSolarInc

Are you looking for a reliable solar company with an emphasis on cost savings and dependability but also want a company that will educate you about your options for installing solar panels or help you through the application process for installation grants from your city government? CalSolarInc is one of the best renewable energy companies in California. You may have found what you're looking for in CalSolarInc. They work with homeowners and businesses of all sizes throughout California, and their team has many years of experience installing solar systems on homes, schools, churches, hospitals, public buildings, warehouses, and more. From research and analysis to site evaluation, project development, system design and layout, electrical engineering, permitting and inspections—they do it all. Plus, they provide financing options like Home Power Purchase Agreements (HPPA) or lease agreements where you don't need any upfront money. If you're still not sure if solar is right for you, no problem - they offer free energy assessments so you can get an idea of how much money a solar panel installation could save you over time. And if you have questions after your assessment, they are always available by phone or email to answer them. Buddy's Electric: With nearly 50 years of experience in commercial electrical contracting and renewable energy production, Buddy's Electric brings expertise to every job. They specialize in consulting services for large-scale utility-sized projects as well as small residential installations such as rooftop solar panels, ground mounted PV arrays, wind turbines, and grid-tie inverters. The company's approach allows them to handle projects of any size with unmatched professionalism and dedication while providing customers with unparalleled value at every turn.

SunEdison, Inc.

SunEdison has built a record of successfully executing the world's largest solar power plant projects and is one of the fastest-growing, global clean-energy companies. With more than 15 years of experience, SunEdison has completed more than 25 successful solar power plants and is expanding into wind power generation. They are committed to providing customers with long-term value by acquiring, developing, constructing, and operating quality projects that generate clean energy reliably. They are one of the best renewable energy companies in California.

NextEra Energy, Inc.

NextEra Energy, Inc. has a long history of innovation, with nearly 60 years' experience bringing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity service to residential customers, businesses, and industries. With increased interest in sustainable development, NextEra is providing more than 250 megawatts of green generating capacity from renewable sources. These projects include solar photovoltaic arrays in California totaling 132 megawatts. This is also one of the renewable energy companies in California.

[naturalrights-retard]

The following was originally published by Wyoming’s Cowboy State Daily as the article ‘Largest EV Charging Station in World Powered By Diesel-Powered Generators’ written by Kevin Killough.

The Harris Ranch Tesla Supercharger station is an impressive beast. With 98 charging bays, the facility in Coalinga, California, is the largest charging station in the world.

In 2017, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that all Superchargers in the automaker’s network were being converted to solar. 

“Over time, almost all will disconnect from the electricity grid,” Musk posted on X, formally known as Twitter.

Superchargers charge vehicles up to the 80% sweet spot in as little as 20 minutes, but to provide that kind of power for nearly 100 bays takes something solar can’t provide – diesel generators.

Investigative journalist Edward Niedermeyer discovered that the station was powered by diesel generators hidden behind a Shell station. Reporters at SF Gate tried to find out how much of the station’s electricity was from the generators, but couldn’t get a response from Tesla.

The station isn’t connected to any dedicated solar farms, which means that absent the diesel generators, the station is powered by California’s grid.

According to the US Energy and Information Administration, in June 2023, natural gas supplied nearly 5,000 megawatt hours of electricity in California, whereas non-hydroelectric renewables supplied about 7,250 megawatt hours.

Another Case 

Energy analyst and writer David Blackmon, author of the ‘Energy Transition Absurdities’, told Cowboy State Daily that the use of diesel-powered generators is not limited to the Harris Ranch station.

He used to shop at a Whole Foods in Houston. The company had installed a charging station in front of the store for its customers.

“It was the best parking spot in the lot, and it crowded out a bunch of handicap spaces,” Blackmon said. 

He said there were diesel generators behind the store and whenever someone was using the chargers, the generators would kick on.

[reasonsforhope]

The Klamath River’s salmon population has declined due to myriad factors, but the biggest culprit is believed to be a series of dams built along the river from 1918 to 1962, cutting off fish migration routes.

Now, after decades of Indigenous advocacy, four of the structures are being demolished as part of the largest dam removal project in United States history. In November, crews finished removing the first of the four dams as part of a push to restore 644 kilometres (400 miles) of fish habitat.

“Dam removal is the largest single step that we can take to restore the Klamath River ecosystem,” [Barry McCovey, a member of the Yurok Tribe and director of tribal fisheries,] told Al Jazeera. “We’re going to see benefits to the ecosystem and then, in turn, to the fishery for decades and decades to come.” ...

A ‘watershed moment’

Four years later, [after a catastrophic fish die-off in 2002,] in 2006, the licence for the hydroelectric dams expired. That created an opportunity, according to Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation (KRRC), a nonprofit founded to oversee the dam removals.

Standards for protecting fisheries had increased since the initial license was issued, and the utility company responsible for the dams faced a choice. It could either upgrade the dams at an economic loss or enter into a settlement agreement that would allow it to operate the dams until they could be demolished.

“A big driver was the economics — knowing that they would have to modify these facilities to bring them up to modern environmental standards,” Bransom explained. “And the economics just didn’t pencil out.”

The utility company chose the settlement. In 2016, the KRRC was created to work with the state governments of California and Oregon to demolish the dams.

Final approval for the deal came in 2022, in what Bransom remembers as a “watershed moment”.

Regulators at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) voted unanimously to tear down the dams, citing the benefit to the environment as well as to Indigenous tribes...

Tears of joy

Destruction of the first dam — the smallest, known as Copco 2 — began in June, with heavy machinery like excavators tearing down its concrete walls.

[Amy Cordalis, a Yurok Tribe member, fisherwoman and lawyer for the tribe,] was present for the start of the destruction. Bransom had invited her and fellow KRRC board members to visit the bend in the Klamath River where Copco 2 was being removed. She remembers taking his hand as they walked along a gravel ridge towards the water, a vein of blue nestled amid rolling hills.

“And then, there it was,” Cordalis said. “Or there it wasn’t. The dam was gone.”

For the first time in a century, water flowed freely through that area of the river. Cordalis felt like she was seeing her homelands restored.

Tears of joy began to roll down her cheeks. “I just cried so hard because it was so beautiful.”

The experience was also “profound” for Bransom. “It really was literally a jolt of energy that flowed through us,” he said, calling the visit “perhaps one of the most touching, most moving moments in my entire life”.

Demolition on Copco 2 was completed in November, with work starting on the other three dams. The entire project is scheduled to wrap in late 2024.

[A resilient river]

But experts like McCovey say major hurdles remain to restoring the river’s historic salmon population.

Climate change is warming the water. Wildfires and flash floods are contaminating the river with debris. And tiny particles from rubber vehicle tires are washing off roadways and into waterways, where their chemicals can kill fish within hours.

McCovey, however, is optimistic that the dam demolitions will help the river become more resilient.

“Dam removal is one of the best things we can do to help the Klamath basin be ready to handle climate change,” McCovey explained. He added that the river’s uninterrupted flow will also help flush out sediment and improve water quality.

The removal project is not the solution to all the river’s woes, but McCovey believes it’s a start — a step towards rebuilding the reciprocal relationship between the waterway and the Indigenous people who rely on it.

“We do a little bit of work, and then we start to see more salmon, and then maybe we get to eat more salmon, and that starts to help our people heal a little bit,” McCovey said. “And once we start healing, then we’re in a place where we can start to help the ecosystem a little bit more.”"

-via Al Jazeera, December 4, 2023