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Can Solar + Storage Solve the Challenges of Grid Reliability?

Home solar systems can benefit grid reliability. First, solar energy directly reduces demand on the electrical grid during peak times. A home with rooftop solar does not need as much electricity from the grid because its solar panels often generate enough energy to meet the home’s needs. Second, solar + storage can improve the resiliency of the grid during extreme weather events that are becoming more commonplace due to the impact of climate change. This is because solar energy systems can often operate in an off-grid function, freeing up electricity for the rest of the community.

How Will It Affect Home Solar Systems?

California’s initial NEM program was established in 1996 to incentivize utility customers who generated their own clean energy by offering financial credit on their electric bills for any surplus energy fed back to their utility. NEM served as a very attractive incentive to many homeowners who were interested in getting solar energy but were uncertain about the cost advantages. Knowing they could “sell” any surplus energy back helped many consumers realize the financial benefits that justified installing solar systems on their homes. This was in addition to helping their community by adding renewable electricity to the utility power grid that everyone relies upon.California’s initial NEM program was established in 1996

HOW DO SOLAR STREET LIGHTS WORK?

In an era where sustainability meets innovation, the ascent of solar street lighting as a beacon of eco-friendly infrastructure is undeniable. As cities worldwide strive to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency, the adoption of solar street lights has emerged as a pivotal trend. These self-sufficient lighting systems not only offer a green alternative to traditional street lighting but also promise significant cost savings and reduced maintenance over time. Solar street lights harness the sun’s power to illuminate our streets, pathways, and public spaces, providing safety and visibility after dark. Unlike conventional lighting, they operate independently of the grid, making them ideal for remote and environmentally sensitive areas.

Strengthening Communities Against Power Outages With Smart Home Technology

With energy demands growing every day and severe weather events increasingly putting electrical grids under stress, homeowners are seeking more reliable and resilient solutions to power their homes. In 10 pilot projects across the country, including new construction homes, workplaces and a university, the Department of Energy (DOE) is working with private sector companies, public utilities and learning institutions to create energy smart “Connected Communities.” Made up of grid-interactive, energy efficient homes and buildings that use smart controls, sensors and analytics to communicate with the power grid

Three Ways to Keep Your Utility Bills Down After Going Solar

You just experienced a big life change. Whether you’ve just added a new member to your family or bought an EV, life changes can often be exciting. But they can also require you to use more energy. For example, having a new baby could lead to additional loads of laundry, a bumped up thermostat or late nights with the lights on. Running your dryer or charging your EV during off-peak times can help avoid increased costs.

What to Expect During Your SunPower Solar Panel Installation

When making the decision to get solar power, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of the process of installing solar panels on your home. So, what happens once you sign the dotted line? While each experience varies by dealer, in most cases you will have a project coordinator communicating with you throughout this process. The project coordinator is your advocate within the company and works directly with the teams responsible for completing tasks for your project. As your main point of contact, they’ll give updates along the way of what to expect, so there are no surprises.