#Solar Net Meter

[solispowersolution]

Power Crisis in India- Would be Switching to Solar Solve Your Issue

Power Crisis in India

India recently experienced a power crisis, with the daily peak power shortage reaching 10,778 MW and the national energy deficit reaching 5%, with some states experiencing steep deficits of up to 15%. As a result, distribution companies resorted to load-shedding, resulting in long periods of outage for many households and rationed supply for economic activities.

This crisis has resulted from the depletion of coal supplies at thermal power plants. This, however, is not a new phenomenon. The shortage occurs almost every year, and despite various measures, the government has not been able to solve the problem.

An Unpredictable Resource

Despite being the world's second largest coal producer, the country experienced a coal supply shortage. However, this time, a lack of availability was not a cause for concern. Instead, problems with coal evacuation and stockpiling at thermal power plants caused a supply shortage. This, combined with an increase in the price of imported coal due to the world's unsettled political climate, resulted in a severe shortage.

The country urgently needs to diversify its electricity generation. Why? Because, even if India avoids the immediate crisis this year, it may not be able to do so in the future.

The demand for electricity continues to rise. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, Indian industries are attempting to resume operations and make up for lost time. A steady supply of electricity is critical in a rapidly growing economy and population. This crisis has provided an opportunity for the country to reduce its reliance on finite fossil fuels. The country requires a paradigm shift. From conventional and limited energy sources to locally available and sustainable renewable energy.

The Renewable Solution

According to a study conducted by Climate Risk Horizons, a policy research organisation, there would have been no crisis if India had met its renewable energy target of 175 GW. Renewable energy sources would have supplemented the generation from thermal power plants. This, in turn, would have preserved the dwindling reserves.

India currently has a renewable energy capacity of 160.92 GW, with a goal of reaching 175 GW by the end of 2022. This figure includes wind power, solar energy, bio-power, and small and large hydroelectrical power. Solar energy is the most accessible power source for homes, businesses, and industries.

The Bright Potential of Solar

As a tropical country, many states in India receive plenty of sunlight. The country can convert this locally available resource into a power source with a well-established solar infrastructure.

According to the National Institute of Solar Energy, the country has a vast solar potential of approximately 748 GW, assuming that solar modules cover 3% of the waste land area. India's goal for harnessing this resource is to build 280 GW of solar power capacity by 2030. Furthermore, to achieve this goal, the Indian government is constructing large-scale solar power plants. Through policy changes and subsidy programmes, they are also encouraging rooftop solar installations.

And there are many takers.

Businesses and industries across many industries are turning to solar to reduce their electricity costs and gain energy production independence. Furthermore, as residential solar installation policies evolve, homeowners are investing in rooftop solar systems.

Many state-owned buildings use this renewable resource to meet their energy requirements. Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) in Kerala was the world's first airport to run entirely on solar energy. Similarly, other state airports such as Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Delhi have chosen to use green energy.

Solar energy is the most popular renewable energy source in India because it provides numerous benefits:

Benefits of Solar Energy

1. Reduces strain on coal

During the day, solar energy production is at its peak. This is also the peak period for power demand. The pressure on coal systems can be reduced if we supplement coal-based power with this renewable resource. In this manner, coal reserves can be saved for the night.

2. Improves grid security

Energy generation centres are expanding as small and large-scale solar power plants are built across states. As a result, utility grids are being infused with solar power, which improves grid security. A strong grid also reduces the likelihood of frequent blackouts.

3. Reduces Electricity Bill  

Electricity prices are rising as the supply of power sources becomes more uncertain. Solar can significantly reduce energy costs in this scenario. The initial investment in solar systems can be recovered in as little as 2-3 years.

4. Wider Reach

Many remote areas of India lack access to electricity but receive plenty of sunlight. Solar energy systems with battery backup are a viable solution in such cases.

5. Feasible

Solar systems have become more efficient, dependable, and cost-effective as newer technology has entered the market. As a result, installing solar has become more affordable for consumers across all industries.

Government Policies & Challenges

Many new policies to promote solar energy development have recently emerged in India. Policies such as the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) and Basic Custom Duty aim to develop domestic manufacturing capacity for solar modules by restricting solar module and solar cell imports. Others, such as the Green Energy Open Access Policy, make it simple for commercial and industrial customers to buy renewable energy from sources other than their local power distribution company.A national portal was also established to facilitate the submission of applications and the tracking of subsidy transfers.

However, there are still some major hurdles in reaching the solar target-

• Despite the encouragement, domestic manufacturing capacity for solar components remains limited, and imports have become prohibitively expensive. This has an impact on the cost of solar energy systems.

• There is a need to develop transmission and distribution infrastructure for solar power project power evacuation.

• The availability of clear land for ground-mounted solar systems continues to be an issue. The high cost of land is a major impediment to the establishment of power plants.

• Covid-19 imposed financial constraints on commercial and industrial businesses, limiting their ability to invest in new solar projects.

• Distribution companies' opposition has also been a major impediment. Many states restrict net metering and force their customers to use gross metering, limiting their ability to save money on electricity.

A 'favourable policy environment' is required to boost solar development in India. Furthermore, the Indian government should take steps to create dedicated financing options for solar projects in order to make it easier for businesses to shift their focus to solar energy.

Aside from that, improved implementation of existing renewable policies and solar infrastructure development are required to increase India's solar capacity.

[caterjunes]

soooo excited for the solar company to Finally come today & figure out what is wrong w/ our solar panels

[dipnots]

Turning Solar Energy into Money: 10 Ways to Profit from Sunlight

The sun is an incredibly powerful and abundant source of energy, and there are many ways to turn sunlight into money. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective ways to do so. Install Solar Panels on Your Property One of the most direct ways to turn sunlight into money is by installing solar panels on your property. Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells that…

[sunnyenergysolar]

Arizona net metering: What you need to know - Sunny Energy

This Blog was Originally Published at:

Arizona net metering: What you need to know — Sunny Energy

The ever-increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy has led many homeowners in Arizona to explore solar power options. Among the considerations for those embracing solar energy are Arizona net metering and a unique net billing program.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the key differences between Arizona net metering and net billing, understanding how the latter works, exploring excess generation credit rates, and evaluating the potential solar savings. Additionally, we’ll explore the role of solar batteries in maximizing savings under Arizona’s net billing program.

Arizona net metering vs Arizona’s net billing

Net metering and net billing are both mechanisms that allow solar panel owners to offset their electricity bills by generating their own solar power. Arizona net metering is a widely adopted practice across the United States, where the excess energy generated by a solar system is fed back into the grid, and homeowners receive credits on their utility bills for the surplus electricity produced. Arizona, however, has adopted a unique approach called net billing for most utility rates. While it shares similarities with net metering, the nuances lie in how excess energy is compensated and credited.

How does Arizona’s net billing program work?

Arizona’s net billing program allows solar system owners to export excess electricity to the grid and receive credits for the surplus. Unlike net metering, where excess energy is credited at the retail rate, Arizona’s net billing compensates homeowners at a predetermined export rate, which is usually lower than the retail rate. This can impact the overall savings potential for solar energy users in the state.

Excess generation credit rates

The excess generation credit rate is a critical factor in understanding the financial implications of Arizona’s net billing program. The credit rate is the amount solar system owners receive for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of excess electricity exported to the grid. The rate is typically set by the utility company or state regulatory body and can vary based on factors such as time of day and demand.

Solar savings with Arizona net billing

While Arizona’s net billing program may offer savings, it’s essential for solar system owners to carefully analyze their energy consumption patterns and the credit rates offered by their utility provider. Despite the potential differences in credit rates, solar power remains a viable and environmentally friendly option for homeowners seeking to reduce their reliance on traditional grid power.

Solar savings will vary at different times of the year

Will a solar battery help you save more with Arizona’s net billing?

Integrating a solar battery into your solar power system can enhance your savings under Arizona’s net billing program. solar Arizona companies provide installation with solar batteries that allow homeowners to store excess energy generated during the day and use it during periods of low sunlight or high energy demand. This reduces the reliance on grid power during peak times, potentially increasing the overall savings and energy independence. Using the energy stored in your batteries allows you to use it when peak rates can be as much as ten times the rate you would otherwise get paid with net billing.

Conclusion

As Arizona residents increasingly turn to solar power by choosing Arizona solar contractors, understanding the distinctions between net metering and the state’s unique net billing program is crucial. By grasping the intricacies of credit rates and exploring the benefits of solar batteries, homeowners can make informed decisions about adopting solar energy with solar power companies in Arizona and maximizing their savings. The journey to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions requires careful consideration, but with the right knowledge and selection of Arizona solar company, residents can harness the power of the sun to not only reduce their environmental impact but also enjoy long-term financial benefits.

Sunny Energy is a reputable solar installer and the best solar company in Arizona that understands the concept of Arizona net metering and net billing well and their experienced professionals can guide you in choosing the best method. Reach out to us today and book your consultation with one of the best Arizona solar companies.

[eninrac-consulting]

Net Metering: Powering Homes or Hampering Solar Growth? Exploring Capping Net Metering

Net metering incentivizes solar energy adoption by allowing homeowners to credit excess solar power they generate back to the grid. However, some regions are considering capping net metering, limiting the amount of credit homeowners receive. This blog explores the debate surrounding net metering caps. We'll analyze the benefits of net metering for homeowners and utilities, delve into the rationale behind capping, and discuss the potential impact on the growth of solar power.

[solarpanelimportance]

Solar panel can improve you lives, read more https://paksolarpanelprice.pk/net-metering-pakistan/

[soalrpanel08]

Explore the transformative landscape of Net Metering, particularly the latest iteration, NEM 3.0, as it emerges as a game-changer for solar panel installers in the United States. Net Metering allows solar energy producers to feed excess electricity back into the grid, efficiently balancing consumption and production.

[prosolarcentralflorida]

Renewable energy solutions - ProSolar Central Florida

In the heart of Central Florida, where sunshine reigns supreme, ProSolar Central Florida is on a mission to power a sustainable future. With a dedication to renewable energy solutions, they are illuminating homes and businesses with clean, eco-friendly power. In this article, we'll explore how ProSolar Central Florida is leading the charge in making Central Florida a hub for sustainable energy solutions.

I. Central Florida's Sustainable Energy Revolution

Abundant Sunshine: Central Florida boasts an abundance of sunlight, making it an ideal region for harnessing solar energy.

Environmental Awareness: Residents are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint.

II. ProSolar Central Florida: Your Renewable Energy Partner

Sustainability Pioneers: ProSolar Central Florida brings a wealth of experience and expertise in renewable energy solutions.

Comprehensive Services: They offer a wide range of services, from solar panel installations to energy storage solutions, tailored to diverse energy needs.

III. Benefits of Renewable Energy Solutions

Clean and Sustainable: Renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power, provide a clean and eco-friendly source of electricity.

Energy Savings: Central Florida residents can significantly reduce their energy bills by adopting renewable energy solutions.

IV. The Installation Process

Customized Solutions: ProSolar Central Florida designs personalized renewable energy systems, matching each customer's energy consumption and property requirements.

Professional Installation: Their experienced technicians ensure a seamless and efficient installation of solar panels and energy storage systems.

V. Environmental Responsibility

Reduced Carbon Footprint: The adoption of renewable energy aligns with the mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

Local Sustainability: Widespread use of renewable energy supports cleaner and more sustainable local environments.

VI. Financial Benefits

Federal Incentives: ProSolar Central Florida assists clients in leveraging federal incentives and tax credits for renewable energy installations.

Long-Term Savings: Renewable energy solutions offer long-term financial benefits by reducing energy costs and providing a strong return on investment.

VII. Technological Advancements

Cutting-Edge Technology: ProSolar Central Florida stays at the forefront of renewable energy technology, implementing the latest advancements to maximize energy production.

Energy Storage: They also offer state-of-the-art energy storage solutions, allowing homeowners and businesses to store excess renewable energy for use during peak times or power outages.

VIII. Conclusion

ProSolar Central Florida isn't just in the business of installing solar panels; they're illuminating the path to a cleaner, more sustainable, and financially advantageous energy future for Central Florida. By reducing energy costs, promoting clean energy adoption, and helping homeowners and businesses reduce their carbon footprint, they are shaping a brighter and more prosperous Central Florida. With ProSolar Central Florida, Central Florida's energy future is not just brighter; it's more sustainable than ever. Trust in ProSolar Central Florida for a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.

[ifindtaxpro]

🌞💨 Tax breaks are the driving force behind the shift to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Discover how these incentives are reshaping our energy landscape for a more sustainable future. #RenewableEnergy #TaxIncentives #GreenTech

[prosolarpr]

"Switch to Solar Power with ProSolar Systems! Visit prosolarpr.com to light up your future with clean, renewable energy.a

[sunnyenergysolar]

Net metering 3.0 vs. batteries: what makes the most financial sense? - Sunny Energy

This Blog was Orignally Published at:

Net metering 3.0 vs. batteries: what makes the most financial sense? — Sunny Energy

In recent years, the world has witnessed a paradigm shift towards renewable energy sources, with solar power leading the charge. As individuals and businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprint, harnessing the sun’s energy has become an increasingly popular choice. Two technologies that have gained prominence in this solar revolution are net metering and solar batteries.

In this blog, we will explore net metering 3.0 vs solar batteries, how they differ, and the benefits they offer in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

What is net metering?

Net metering is a billing arrangement that allows solar panel owners to feed excess energy generated back into the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you consume, the surplus is sent to the grid, and your utility company credits you for it. During times when your solar panels are not producing enough energy, you can draw electricity from the grid. Net metering essentially enables you to balance the energy you produce with the energy you consume, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.

Net metering 3.0: What’s new in it?

Net metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0) is a new policy that went into effect in California in April 2023, replacing the previous net metering program. It governs how homeowners with solar panels are compensated for the excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid.

What are the impacts of net metering 3.0?

The reduced compensation rates under net metering 3.0 will make it less financially attractive for homeowners to install solar panels. The policy is also designed to encourage homeowners to pair solar panels with battery storage, as batteries can help them store excess solar energy and use it when they need it, rather than sending it back to the grid at a lower rate. Here are some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of net metering 3.0:

Benefits of net metering 3.0:

Encourages battery storage adoption, which can improve grid resilience

Reduces the strain on the grid during peak demand periods

Can potentially lower electricity costs for all consumers

Drawbacks of net metering 3.0:

Makes solar panels less financially attractive for homeowners

Could slow the growth of the solar industry and solar installers in California

May disproportionately impact low-income homeowners

Overall, net metering 3.0 is a complex policy with both potential benefits and drawbacks. It’s important for homeowners to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether or not to install solar panels under the new program.

What is a solar battery?

On the other hand, a solar battery is a device that stores excess solar energy generated during the day for later use. Instead of sending surplus energy back to the grid, it is stored in the battery, allowing you to use it during periods of low sunlight or at night. Solar batteries are an essential component of off-grid solar systems, providing a reliable source of power when sunlight is unavailable. They play a crucial role in achieving energy independence and enhancing the efficiency of solar energy systems.

How much you save with net metering vs batteries

The decision between net metering and solar batteries depends on various factors, including individual energy consumption patterns, geographical location, and local regulations. Net metering typically allows solar panel owners to offset their electricity bills by receiving credits for excess energy, resulting in significant savings over time. However, this model relies on a continuous connection to the grid.

Why has net metering phased out and benefits of solar batteries

In some regions, net metering programs have been phased out or scaled back due to concerns about the impact on utility revenues and the grid’s stability. As more households and businesses adopt solar power, the traditional grid infrastructure faces challenges in managing the influx of distributed energy sources.

Solar batteries by best Arizona solar companies address these challenges by providing a decentralized energy storage solution. They enhance grid resilience by reducing the strain on centralized power systems and offering backup power during emergencies. Additionally, solar batteries contribute to a more sustainable and reliable energy future, promoting a cleaner environment and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Benefits of solar batteries

1. Grid independence:

One of the primary benefits of solar batteries is the ability to operate independently from the grid. As net metering faces challenges in some regions, solar batteries empower users to store excess energy generated by solar panels for later use. This ensures a continuous and reliable power supply, even during grid outages or when solar production is low. Look for the best solar company in Arizona that provides solar installation with batteries.

2. Enhanced grid resilience:

Solar batteries contribute to grid resilience by decentralizing energy storage. Traditional grid infrastructure often struggles to manage the variability and intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar power. Solar batteries act as distributed storage units, reducing the strain on centralized power systems. This decentralized approach enhances the overall resilience of the grid by minimizing the impact of fluctuations in energy production.

3. Emergency backup power:

Solar batteries provide a valuable source of backup power during emergencies. In instances of grid failures, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events, solar-powered homes or businesses with energy storage systems can continue to function. This not only ensures the safety and well-being of occupants but also helps critical facilities, such as hospitals and emergency services, to remain operational when traditional power sources are compromised.

4. Time-of-use savings:

Many regions have implemented time-of-use pricing, where electricity costs vary based on the time of day. Solar batteries allow users to store excess energy when electricity prices are low and discharge it during peak demand periods when prices are high. This strategy can result in significant cost savings by avoiding expensive grid electricity during peak hours.

5.Promoting environmental sustainability:

Solar batteries contribute to a more sustainable energy future by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The stored solar energy can be utilized during periods when solar panels are not actively generating power, thereby decreasing the need for electricity from conventional sources. This shift towards cleaner energy sources plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change and reducing the environmental impact of traditional power generation.

6.Encouraging renewable energy adoption:

The widespread adoption of solar batteries encourages more individuals and businesses to invest in renewable energy technologies. The availability of reliable energy storage solutions and solar power companies in Arizona makes solar power a more attractive and viable option for those considering transitioning to cleaner energy sources in Arizona. This, in turn, supports the growth of the renewable energy sector and accelerates the transition towards a sustainable energy landscape.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the evolving landscape of renewable energy, the choice between net metering 3.0 and solar batteries boils down to individual needs, preferences, and local conditions. While net metering remains a viable option for many, the advantages of solar batteries are becoming increasingly apparent, especially in areas where grid reliability is a concern. Whether you choose to offset your electricity bills through net metering 3.0 or invest in solar batteries for greater energy independence, both options contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Embracing solar technologies not only saves money but also plays a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint and securing a cleaner, more resilient energy landscape for generations to come.

Are you looking for solar power companies near me then Sunny Energy is among the top rated solar companies in Arizona. Sunny Energy, a leading Arizona solar company, and Arizona solar contractors can guide you on where to invest your money for energy solutions. Get a free quote today and analyze your sustainable home requirements.

[eninrac-consulting]

Understanding Capping Net Metering: Maximizing Benefits of Solar Power Net Metering

Dive into the intricacies of net metering and discover how capping net metering can impact your solar power savings. This guide explains the basics of net metering, the benefits it offers, and the implications of introducing caps. Learn how solar power net metering works and explore strategies to maximize your energy efficiency and financial returns in an evolving regulatory landscape.

[myeasysolarplans]

What You Need to Know About Solar Net Metering and How it Can Benefit You

Net metering is a policy that permits solar and other renewable energy systems to export their excess power back into the grid, allowing you to recoup your investment in solar more quickly. Additionally, it helps keep electricity costs down for all customers; however, its effects aren’t without controversy. What is Net Metering? Net metering is a utility billing strategy that tracks the excess…

[daisychainsandbowties]

thinking a normal amount about a treasure planet au. Beatrice on her solar kiteboard, doing the daredevil flip sequence framed against the setting sun and then getting hauled kicking and screaming back to her parents’ house in manacles with a defiant expression on her perpetually dirt-smudged face.

climbing out the window at the first opportunity to go down to the dockside inn, making nebulous plans to steal her kiteboard back but ending up down at the edge of the dock staring past her boots and into the mists. gripping tight to the wood beneath her as she looks up at the sky and dreams of anywhere but here, of stealing a skiff to get off this planet. a reluctant twinge at the thought of going alone.

Bea with all her star maps and her intricate knowledge of spaceships and their solar sails and how to navigate out there where the artigrav net is all that stands between you and floating through nothing, forever.

startling when she hears the familiar sound of someone booking it down the pier on wooden crutches. night has already started to speckle the sky above, and as she listens to the thunk of the crutches on the pier, Bea thinks of the complicated metallic lattice she has on her desk at home, partly disassembled because she’s still trying to work out parts of the engineering. Ava’s birthday is in a month.

she has to stay that long, and then she’ll leave. she will.

turning to watch as Ava races towards her with soup stains on her shirt and messy hair jammed flat beneath a ‘pirate’ hat she bought off of a traveling salesman last year. the tricorn wobbles precariously on her head as she moves. Beatrice just waits, a slight smile on her face.

there are bruises high on each of her arms, from the pincer-like grip of the police bots, manhandling her away from her kiteboard to snap manacles around each wrist.

she rubs at the skin there, but ignores the bruises.

when Ava arrives, a little out of breath, Beatrice holds up a hand so she can help herself down onto the pier. there’s no water beneath them, only a few hundred meters of empty air and curling mist.

Ava keeps one hand on Bea’s and the other on her shoulder, letting the crutches clatter down between them as she sits.

“Mom says you got arrested again,” Ava says cheerfully. “She says they’re threatening to send you to prison.”

Beatrice shrugs, “I wouldn’t mind it, so long as my parents did not visit.”

Ava’s fingers are covered in bright red band-aids, from chopping vegetables all day with her poor hand dexterity. Beatrice watches the colours blur as Ava punches her in the arm, right on the bruises. “Liar, I know you’d miss me.”

her arm throbs painfully, but Beatrice’s expression is carefully neutral as she responds. 

“I might.”

she stays with Ava that night, both of them reading her old book with its floating images of ships and canons and pirates leaping from vessel to vessel. Captain Flint, materialising out of empty space to steal away gems and gold, “the loot of a thousand worlds.” Ava traces the projected lines of the solar sails with her fingers as they flicker into being. 

Beatrice has repaired the book over and over, making the colours brighter and sharper. the tiny shapes of pirates all made up of light. Ava has the book open on Bea’s chest as she lies next to her, legs all entangled in the sheets they’ve kicked off because the night is so warm.

she seems oblivious to how Beatrice’s breath hitches at almost every touch.

they’re almost asleep when they hear the explosion, a ship crashing into the cliff-side, tumbling over and over before they hear the pop and hiss of heated metal. a bloom of smoke outside the window.

Beatrice gives Ava a piggyback ride down the stairs just before Ava’s ‘mom’, Suzanne, emerges with her pulse-rifle primed, hair loose around her shoulders.

they stumble into the yard and discover a pirate, a robot, still bleeding from a wound in his abdomen, crawling from the wreck of his ship. Beatrice heaves a shard of twisted metal away from him and finds the surface slippery with blood.

behind her, Ava sways a little, shivers in the cold air, but she’s still standing when Beatrice turns back to her.

the dying pirate tells them almost nothing useful. he’s half-mad, cluching at Beatrice’s shirt until the seams tear at the collar, then turning to Ava. he fetches out a lockbox from his ship, blood spilling onto the ground at the movement. unlocks it and takes odd sphere from inside.

it drops into Ava’s palm as he rasps, “Whatever you do, don’t let them find it.”

then he wheezes, shudders, stills.

they stare at him, Ava’s free hand finding Bea’s, holding tight.

“Is he… dead?” Ava’s voice in the silence and the dark.

“I think so.”

then, in a burst of light and sound, in a shockwave of displaced air, a ship plummets down out of the clouds, pulling up an instant from the ground.

this second ship looms down out of the sky, pirates dropping from it and suddenly Suzanne is screaming at them to “GET INSIDE” from an upstairs window as she takes potshots at the misshapen shapes swarming down lines of hempen rope.

the air lights up with orange and yellow as explosions ripple down towards the crashed ship, towards the inn. Bea flings one of Ava’s arms around her neck and sprints for the door, Ava holding the sphere (or map?) tightly against her chest.

she sets Ava down gently onto one of the bar stools, runs back to barricade the door. her face is flushed, streaked somehow with engine grease and robot blood, which is black and slightly acidic. 

they exchange a wide-eyed look, too much meaning in it to parse as explosions rock the floor. Ava has both hands clutched around the sphere. 

they both almost scream as Suzanne runs down the stairs in a blur of dressing gown and gun. she has Ava’s crutches in one hand and her rifle in the other. she kisses Ava quickly on the forehead, “Thank the tides you’re safe.” leaves her with the crutches and then goes to fetch an ancient-looking blaster pistol out from behind the bar, presses it into Beatrice’s hands. “You know how to use this?”

“No!”

“Aim it away from your own face.”

and then there are pirates all around the house, glass breaking and fire crackling. Beatrice takes up the rear, pistol pointed at the front door as it bulges under the pressure of pirates flinging their bulk into it again and again. 

they climb out of a window, Suzanne producing a kitchen knife and jamming it into the neck of a pirate loitering uncertainly outside the bolted shutters. there, covered by a tarp, is Suzanne’s old motorcycle with a sidecar attached. lantern-bugs scatter out from under it as Suzanne throws the old tarp away, gestures for Beatrice and Ava to climb in as she covers them with her rifle.

there’s a roar from somewhere in the dark and Suzanne fires a shot, hops onto the motorcycle and revs the engine. then they’re moving, pirates parting before them like the ocean neither of them have ever seen, the vast bodies of water that don’t even exist on this planet.

they seek refuge with Jillian, an archaeologist who frequents the old inn, claiming that she can’t make her coffee taste of anything but soap. she examines the orb, reluctantly passed into her hands by Ava, her and Bea wrapped in an old blanket, sitting by the fire in Jillian’s immense study.

Jillian fiddles with it for an age before sighing, looking almost angry with herself.

“I can’t… seem to make this work.”  

Ava holds out her hand, silent. “let me try,” and Beatrice makes a face at Jillian when she hesitates.

the pirate gave the sphere to Ava; it’s hers. 

it seems much larger in Ava’s small grip. she looks down at it for a while before her fingers start to move, slow but gathering momentum as she presses the little grooves and switches and indents on the sphere. 

until it lights up, showing a map of the known universe, and parts of it that are unknown.

“Is that-” Beatrice feels her words drop away, like the ground beneath the pier where she has passed so many hours sitting with Ava’s hand in hers.

Ava turns to Beatrice, eyes bright as a pair of stars, “It’s treasure planet.”