#solar renewableenergy

[reasonsforhope]

"Clean energy investment manager Greenbacker Renewable Energy has secured $950 million to build what will be New York State’s largest solar farm.

Greenbacker acquired the 500-megawatt (MW) Cider project from renewable energy developer Hecate Energy. Work started in October [2024], and the project is expected to come online in 2026.

Hecate announced on February 3 that the New York Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Transmission (ORES) has now formally issued a siting permit and a formal notice to proceed with construction...

Cider will sit on approximately 2,500 acres of land in Genesee County, east of Buffalo, where it began construction in late 2024. The project is expected to generate enough annual clean electricity to power around 120,000 New York households.

Greenbacker’s Cider project is one of 23 large-scale clean energy developments awarded contracts in December by the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA). New York has set a goal of sourcing 70% of its electricity from clean energy by 2030.

The Solar Energy Industries Association ranks New York 8th nationally for solar capacity. With 6,493 megawatts, it has enough solar to power 1,127,865 homes. It’s expected to move to 5th place in five years."

-via Electrek, February 3, 2025

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - June 8-14

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles!

1. This LGBTQ+ nonprofit just raised $285M to challenge legislative attacks on queer lives

“Launched three years ago in anticipation of escalating federal attacks, the campaign surpassed its goal by more than $100 million. […] Lambda is using the funds to expand its legal team by 42 percent [… and] support a significant scale-up of its public education programs and its LGBTQ+ legal help desk — the only one in the country staffed by attorneys.”

2. When a fox says ‘help’ in London, there’s often an ambulance on its way

“[The Fox Project has] grown from providing information on deterring foxes to rescuing 1,400 a year, including 400 cubs[…. They respond] to calls about injured or ill foxes or cubs that have lost their mothers. […] Cubs that recover are socialized in packs of five until they mature and are then released in a rural location while the adults are freed in the neighborhoods where they were found.”

3. Bills That Could Have Hurt Renewable Energy Die in Texas Legislature

“Renewables diversify the state’s grid and add capacity, renewable advocates said, making the grid more reliable. […] The answer was not to force fossil fuel purchases or connections [as these bills would have done], they said, but to look for more ways to bolster battery storage efforts. […] The Advanced Power Alliance, an advocacy group for clean energy, argued [another] bill would hurt development and competition, which conservative lawmakers should support.”

4. 'New pathway' to cure for HIV discovered using tech from COVID-19 vaccine

“Researchers have taken a giant leap in the search for an HIV cure by discovering a way to identify the virus even as it is camouflaged among other cells. […] By introducing mRNA to white blood cells, [this technology] can force the cells to reveal the virus[…], isolating the virus for potential treatment. [… I]n terms of specifically the field of HIV cure, we have never seen anything close to as good as what we are seeing [with this technology….]”

5. A Historic Milestone in Conservation: The Forêt Brière Is Now Protected

“Thanks to a tremendous collective effort and the generosity of our donors, the goal of raising over $1,000,000 in private funds has been reached, meaning this exceptional 540-hectare property in the heart of the Northern Green Mountains will be protected in perpetuity. […] The area is home to remarkable biodiversity, with over 250 species of flora and numerous at-risk species of fauna[, … and t]he area's habitats are extremely diverse.”

June 1-7 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[mouthtapedguy]

you dare use my own energy against me?

[gamer2002]

[rednblacksalamander]

Before anyone says it: yes, nuclear is better than coal. But I know astroturfed blame-shifting when I see it.

[pale-blue-home]

Did you know that the world surpassed a record 40% clean energy benchmark in 2024? That includes solar, wind, and other renewable resources! Europe is one of the biggest drivers of the trend, with 71% of its electricity coming from clean energy sources.

https://www.the-independent.com/tech/renewables-record-clean-energy-solar-wind-ember-b2729310.html

[liminalgardens]

Scientists Have Developed a Living “Bio-Solar Cell” That Runs on Photosynthesis

Plants are often thought of as sources of food, oxygen, and decoration, but not as a source of electricity. However, scientists have discovered that by harnessing the natural transport of electrons within plant cells, it is possible to generate electricity as part of a green, biological solar cell. In a recent study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, researchers for the first time used a succulent plant to create a living “bio-solar cell” that runs on photosynthesis...

The researchers created a living solar cell using the succulent Corpuscularia lehmannii, also called the “ice plant.” They inserted an iron anode and platinum cathode into one of the plant’s leaves and found that its voltage was 0.28V. When connected to a circuit, it produced up to 20 µA/cm2 of photocurrent density, when exposed to light and could continue producing current for over a day. Though these numbers are less than that of a traditional alkaline battery, they are representative of just a single leaf.

Previous studies on similar organic devices suggest that connecting multiple leaves in series could increase the voltage. The team specifically designed the living solar cell so that protons within the internal leaf solution could be combined to form hydrogen gas at the cathode, and this hydrogen could be collected and used in other applications. The researchers say that their method could enable the development of future sustainable, multifunctional green energy technologies.

[joriswegner]

I'm living in a flat without balcony on the second floor. I'm not allowed to modify the building stock, like drilling holes into exterior walls. Nonetheless, I want to use solar energy to cover the base load of my flat. Over the last couple months I developed a DIY solution to accomplish just that. A solar panel is clamped into a window embrasure with a telescopic rod. The power is carried through the window into my flat with a special flat conductor.

This is a work in progress, so please visit the project documentation at https://hackaday.io/project/192011-window-mount-for-solar-panels if you are interested.

[unknownlighthousekeeper]

For those in need of Environmental Optimism, especially in the U.S.. In March, the U.S. officially used more than 50% of renewable energy to generate power, Huge news that is not being talked about enough!

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - March 22-28

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles! This month’s doodles, like every third month, will be free to the public, so take a look!

1. Crucial and heartwarming: see world’s first-ever wild jaguar translocation in Argentina

“Miní[, an offspring of rewilded jaguars,] is the first-ever release of a wild-born jaguar that’s been translocated for conservation purposes. […] Miní has joined two previously captive female jaguars [in a park] where a small, all-male wild population had been dwindling.”

2. Illinois Gov. Pritzker stands up for LGBTQ+ community in fiery HRC speech

“The governor particularly spoke out for transgender youth, saying we must not sacrifice the most persecuted for the most popular. [… “]Bullies respond to one thing, and one thing only, a punch in the face.”

3. The UK’s First ‘Stork Village’ Takes Flight

“For the first time in more than six centuries, white storks are calling Britain home again thanks to a dedicated conservation initiative to save the species. […] At the end of 2024, breeding numbers saw egg-straordinary results with 27 nests and 53 baby storks, doubling the previous year’s numbers.”

4. A quiet shift: The grid is being redefined by household consumers who no longer need it full time

“With rising adoption of rooftop solar, batteries, and electric vehicles, households are gradually altering their relationship with the grid. […] This redefined relationship doesn’t signal rejection — it reflects the growing capacity of households to meet part of their own needs.”

5. Europe’s Wolf Population On The Rise

““The recovery of wolves across human-dominated landscapes of Europe has been continuing during the past decade, with their population growing to over 21,500 individuals by 2022—a 58% increase in a decade,” the authors wrote. [… O]n average wolves killed 0.02% of livestock each year.”

6. Hospitals awarded funding for solar power work

“The investment of £8.5m by state-owned Great British Energy will enable rooftop panels and solar car ports to be installed at [several hospitals]. […] "Together, these panels will generate estimated savings of more than £635,000 a year."”

7. Nebraska Boards Sponsor Grain Bin Rescue Equipment, Training for Fire Departments

“[Nebraska Corn and Soybean boards are] donating two grain rescue tubes and two training sessions to fire and rescue departments in Nebraska. [… T]he initiative aims to equip rural fire and rescue teams with the knowledge and tools to respond to grain bin entrapments effectively.“

8. Sugar beet pulp fibers show potential for nutritional supplements and sustainable plastic alternatives

“New technology can separate the fibers in the sugar beet pulp left over after sugar production. Part of the fiber can be used as a nutritional supplement due to its anti-inflammatory properties[… and a]nother part of the fiber, the cellulose, can be made into components to replace, for example, plastic.”

9. Osmotic Power: The Next Wave of Renewable Energy

“Sweetch Energy’s technology could [produce] around 20 or 25 W/m2, a significant leap compared to the 1 W/m2 achieved by previous membrane devices. Moreover, by utilizing a biosourced material readily available within the industry for their membranes, the company anticipates the cost of materials would be reduced to one-tenth of the current price[….]”

10. Renegade Colorado Farmer Pushes Deeper into Unconventional Agriculture

“The grasshoppers stayed in the [pollinator] strips, and that triggered praying mantis to come in and eat. […] An agrivoltaic system […] has reduced moisture consumption by significant levels[….] “Local food nationwide is how to counter the industrial scale food industry.””

March 15-21 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[aboutsolarenergy]

Thinking About Solar Distributorship? Here's Why You Should!

 Hey there! Have you noticed how solar energy is becoming the buzz everywhere? It’s clean, affordable, and the future of power! If you’ve been toying with the idea of starting a solar distributorship, you’re onto something exciting and totally rewarding.

Here’s the deal—solar distributorship is more than just a business venture. It’s your chance to bring sustainable energy to your community, help the planet, and make good money in the process. The renewable energy industry in India is growing rapidly, and solar solutions are at the heart of this incredible movement.

Imagine this—empowering homes, businesses, and schools with affordable, green energy while creating a brighter future. Sounds awesome, right? Trust us, the benefits are worth it!

Not sure where to start? Don’t sweat it! We’ve created a handy guide to walk you through everything you need to know about starting a solar distributorship in India. From the perks to the step-by-step process, we’ve got it covered.

👉 Check Out the Complete Guide Here!

[japanomaniac]

Question: In movies where the world is running out of energy supplies (eg. Cloverfield Paradox) what is the renewable energy sector doing? Everyone is lining up for gas but how are the people with solar panels managing? I want to know why the planet is falling into darkness but still refusing to go renewable? You have solar, water, wind and geothermal energy? What do you mean we need to go to Space?????

[greenpowerbd]

Green Power Ltd. – Your Trusted Partner for Solar Energy Projects in Bangladesh

Green Power Ltd. – Your Trusted Partner for Solar Energy Projects in Bangladesh As Bangladesh accelerates its transition to renewable energy, Green Power Ltd. is here to support business leaders, energy investors, and enterprises in navigating and capitalizing on the solar energy sector. We specialize in delivering turnkey solar solutions, from bid preparation to EPC execution, ensuring seamless project development that aligns with BPDB requirements. How We Add Value to Independent Power Producer with solar Power Plants: ✅ Bid Preparation – Structuring compliant, competitive proposals to increase your chances of winning. ✅ Land Arrangements – Securing strategically located lands near BPDB-designated substations. ✅ Tariff Development – Designing sustainable, cost-effective tariffs for a business case. ✅ Turnkey EPC Services – Offering full-scale Engineering, Procurement & Construction with advanced IoT-enabled solutions. ✅ Feasibility Studies – Ensuring project viability with in-depth pre and post-bid analyses. ✅ Rooftop Solar + BESS – Cutting energy costs significantly by integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems, reducing diesel reliance from BDT 30/kWh to BDT 4/kWh. Why Work With Us? 🔹 Expertise in Large-Scale Solar Projects 🔹 Strong Network with Land & Policy Experts 🔹 Proven Track Record in Renewable Energy 🔹 Commitment to Sustainability & Business Growth Let’s build a cleaner, cost-efficient, and energy-secure future for Bangladesh—together. 📩 Contact us today to explore collaboration opportunities. Telephone: +88-02-222274-959 Cell: +88 01711 537474 Email: ehsan@greenpowerbd.com

GreenPowerLtd #SolarEnergy #BPDB #RenewableEnergy #Bangladesh #CorporateSustainability #SolarInvestment #IndependentPowerProducer #IPP #SolarPowerPlant #Solar #Solarfarm

[jupitersolar]

How Solar Water Heaters Perform in Colder Climates and Necessary Adaptations

Discover how solar water heaters function in cold climates and learn about essential adaptations to enhance efficiency and reliability.

How Solar Water Heaters Perform in Colder Climates and Necessary Adaptations

Solar water heaters are a fantastic investment for reducing energy bills and promoting sustainability. However, their efficiency can be affected by colder climates. Let’s dive into how they perform in low temperatures and the necessary adaptations to maximise their functionality.

Understanding Solar Water Heater Functionality

Solar water heaters capture sunlight through solar collectors to heat water. These systems work exceptionally well in sunny areas, but colder climates present challenges such as:

Reduced sunlight hours.

Freezing temperatures affecting water pipes and collectors.

Decreased efficiency in overcast weather.

How Solar Water Heaters Perform in Colder Climates and Necessary Adaptations

Challenges of Solar Water Heaters in Cold Climates

Heat Loss Heat loss is more significant in colder climates due to temperature differences between the water and the surrounding air.

Freezing Risk Pipes and collectors are prone to freezing, which can cause damage and disrupt water flow.

Insufficient Sunlight Overcast skies and shorter days limit the energy available for heating.

Call : +91 9364896193,             +91 9364896194 to buy solar water heater

Necessary Adaptations for Colder Climates

Here’s how you can ensure optimal performance even in freezing conditions:

1. Use Anti-Freeze Systems

Closed-loop systems use a non-toxic anti-freeze solution that circulates through the collectors and prevents freezing.

2. Opt for Evacuated Tube Collectors

Evacuated tube collectors retain heat better than flat-plate systems, making them ideal for low-temperature areas.

3. Incorporate High-Quality Insulation

Properly insulate pipes, storage tanks, and collectors to minimise heat loss.

4. Install Backup Heating Systems

Complement solar systems with electric or gas-powered backup heaters for consistent hot water supply.

5. Tilt Collectors Correctly

Adjust the angle of solar collectors to maximise exposure to the winter sun.

6. Choose Freeze-Tolerant Components

Invest in components specifically designed to withstand freezing temperatures.

Benefits of Solar Water Heaters in Cold Climates

Even with challenges, solar water heaters offer several benefits in colder regions:

Energy Savings: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers energy bills.

Sustainability: Minimises carbon footprint by using renewable energy.

Longevity: Systems adapted for cold climates tend to last longer due to their robust construction.

Case Study: Solar Water Heater Success in Cold Regions

Countries like Canada and Norway have successfully implemented solar water heaters with the right adaptations. Homeowners report significant savings and minimal disruptions, proving that with proper planning, solar heaters thrive even in extreme climates.

1. Can solar water heaters work in freezing temperatures? Yes, with adaptations like anti-freeze systems and proper insulation, solar water heaters can work efficiently in freezing conditions.

2. What type of solar collector is best for cold climates? Evacuated tube collectors are highly efficient in retaining heat, making them the best choice for colder areas.

3. Do I need a backup heating system? A backup heating system ensures a consistent hot water supply during extended cloudy or freezing periods.

4. How do I prevent pipes from freezing? Use freeze-tolerant components and ensure all pipes are well-insulated.

5. Are solar water heaters cost-effective in cold climates? Yes, the initial investment pays off through reduced energy bills and long-term durability.

Conclusion

Solar water heaters are a sustainable solution, even in colder climates. With proper adaptations like anti-freeze systems, high-quality insulation, and the right solar collectors, you can enjoy consistent hot water year-round. Don’t let cold weather stop you from embracing renewable energy.

Ready to make the switch? Explore premium solar water heaters at Jupiter Solar and revolutionise your energy consumption today!

[mexsel]

Understanding Solar Panel Inverters: Types and Functions

The solar power industry has grown tremendously over the past few decades and is expected to continue growing at over 6% CAGR by 2032. This growth has significantly impacted the solar panel inverter market, which is projected to grow at a 7.7% CAGR over the same period. As a result, solar power stocks have seen a substantial increase. In this article, we'll explore the types and functions of solar panel inverters, a crucial component of any solar power system.

What is a Solar Panel Inverter?

Solar panels consist of silicon photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electrical energy. However, the electricity produced by solar panels is in the form of direct current (DC), which is not suitable for home appliances. Home appliances require alternating current (AC), where the flow of electricity reverses periodically. This is where solar panel inverters come in—they convert DC electricity into AC electricity.

To clarify, DC electricity flows in a single direction, making it efficient for transferring power over short distances without significant losses. However, for practical home use, AC electricity is necessary due to its ability to travel over longer distances with less energy loss. The solar panel inverter acts as an intermediary, converting DC from the solar panels to AC for use in the home or office. Additionally, in an on-grid solar system, the inverter connects the solar panels to the local electricity grid, allowing for net metering and storing excess energy in batteries.

Why is an Inverter Necessary in Solar Power Systems? Solar panel inverters perform several essential functions that make them crucial for any solar power setup:

Converting DC to AC: The primary function of a solar inverter is to convert the DC electricity produced by solar panels into AC electricity, making it usable for home appliances.

Monitoring Solar Panel Performance: Most solar inverters come with built-in monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track the amount of electricity being converted and identify any issues with the solar panels. This feature helps ensure optimal performance and identify potential problems early.

Connecting to the Grid: Inverters connect your solar system to the local utility grid, enabling you to sell excess electricity back to the grid for a credit or financial return. This connection also allows you to draw electricity from the grid when your solar panels aren't producing enough power, ensuring a reliable power supply.

Optimizing Solar Panel Efficiency: Some inverters, such as power optimizers, help maximize the efficiency of each solar panel. Factors like shading, orientation, and debris can cause individual panels to produce different amounts of electricity. Power optimizers adjust the output of each panel to ensure a consistent flow of electricity from the entire array.

Protecting Your Electrical System: Solar inverters also play a protective role by preventing electrical overloads and short circuits. They have built-in safety features that shut down the system in case of overvoltage or other electrical issues, protecting your home and solar investment.

Types of Solar Panel Inverters

There are three main types of solar panel inverters commonly used in residential systems:

String Inverters: This is the most traditional type of solar inverter, similar to a centralized air conditioning system. All solar panels are connected in series to a single inverter. String inverters are most effective in situations where all panels receive equal sunlight without shading. However, if one panel is shaded or malfunctioning, it can reduce the output of the entire system.

Microinverters: Microinverters are installed on each individual solar panel, allowing for more precise energy conversion and monitoring. This setup is ideal for installations where panels face different directions or are prone to shading.

Power Optimizers: Power optimizers combine the benefits of string inverters and microinverters. Each panel is equipped with an optimizer, which adjusts the output to match other panels before sending the DC electricity to a centralized inverter for conversion to AC.

Conclusion Solar panel inverters are essential for converting the DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity suitable for household use. They also play a vital role in monitoring system performance, optimizing efficiency, connecting to the grid, and protecting your electrical system. Choosing the right type of inverter—string inverter, microinverter, or power optimizer—depends on your specific needs, including your budget, site conditions, and energy goals.