Jeff Dowdell, PE, CEM’s Post

“Using scenarios to explore the potential for microgrids powered by #solar on building rooftops larger than 1,000 square metres, we estimate that 63% of disadvantaged communities could meet at least 20% of annual residential electricity demand. Our research argues for a new focus on non-residential solar as a way to strengthen resilience and accelerate local deployment of clean energy resources to promote energy justice.” #microgrids #VirtualPowerPlants #Solarforall

There is a huge opportunity for businesses and communities to utilize our existing built environment and infrastructure to create a profitable, sustainable and thriving future for all. Onsite energy assets interconnected at the distribution level - quick and relatively inexpensive to deploy, adaptable and flexible to our ever-changing energy needs, minimal NIMBY or permitting challenges (faced by utility-scale projects) etc, and access to clean, affordable and reliable power. What's not to like? The challenge has always been planning and coordinating the deployment of high volumes of smaller-sized projects. - Where does an onsite energy system make sense for your business across your portfolio of facilities? - What technologies should be considered (solar alone is not going to solve our challenges) - Whats the business case? - What incentives exist? - What are my financing options? - Who is the best supplier to build and operate the asset? That is why we created VECKTA to simplify and modernize the deployment of onsite energy assets. We provide businesses and community leaders with the control, data, intelligence, tools, workflows, network and confidence to act and take control of their energy future in one platform. What is stopping you from deploying more onsite energy assets today? What other areas of your business would you be a passive consumer of such a critical input to your business? #onsiteenergy #microgrid #solar #storage #energytransition VECKTA

At NineDot Energy, we know that building energy storage is the only way for New York City and State to reach its climate goals in the coming years. The same is true in Canada, where battery storage will be critical to aligning the country’s electrical grid with its net zero goals. We’re proud to be leading the energy storage industry in New York City area, and we’re committed to powering the future with sustainable solutions. Read this article from The Energy Mix to learn more about battery storage’s essential role in creating a more sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/eSmz9GXE Then check out the November, 2023 article on how the Urban Future Lab, housed at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, has helped companies like NineDot (and more than 170 others!) grow in the fight against climate change. https://lnkd.in/e3hFu33y  #NYCCleanEnergy #CleanEnergy #NYC #Sustainability #BatteryStorage #RenewableEnergy #ClimateAction #BESS

EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive Comes into Effect, Paving the Way for Rooftop Solar Expansion Today marks a significant milestone as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) officially enters into force with its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. This directive is set to drive the adoption of rooftop solar across Europe, potentially powering the equivalent of 56 million European homes. A preliminary analysis conducted by SolarPower Europe suggests that the EPBD could spur the installation of 150 to 200 GW of rooftop solar in the coming years, leveraging the vast potential of EU rooftops. Under this directive, all new buildings will be mandated to be solar-ready, streamlining the process and making […] Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/dmUyNY8d #solarenergy #alternativeenergy #solarpv #pvsolar #photovoltaic #cleanenergy #cleantech #climatechange #middleeast #africa #india #asiapacific #asia #epbd #europe #renewableenergy #rooftopsolar #solarenergy #sustainable

Installing solar panels on all New Zealand schools could generate up to 200 megawatts of power, potentially saving schools around $30 million each year. This idea, pitched by Empower Aotearoa, recently took home the Judges’ Award at our Auckland Smart Seeds Showcase last week. RNZ talked to Alicia Williams about the team's focus on accelerating New Zealand’s energy transition—one of three challenges derived from our Challenge Development workshop. Through their research and industry insights, they found that many schools across Aotearoa New Zealand still depend on natural gas and coal for heating. With government contracts for natural gas supplies to public entities ending in September and a gradual shift away from natural gas, the team saw an opportunity to bring schools a new, sustainable energy solution. Their vision involves establishing an entity to support New Zealand schools in joining forces to secure the solar energy they need to power their futures. By leveraging decreasing costs for solar installations, batteries and collective bargaining, schools could not only achieve energy independence but also generate income by selling surplus electricity back to the grid during peak demand. Could this idea transform New Zealand’s schools into the country’s largest virtual power plant? 🎙️Tune in to the full interview with Radio New Zealand: https://lnkd.in/gyWqNQHt 💡Empower Aotearoa team: Alicia Williams (Genesis), Jarrod Leuila (Auckland Transport), Ali Sykes (Auckland Council), Casey Hart (Auckland Council), Rob Bason (Auckland Council), Joe Tiatia (Auckland Airport), Sam Ho (Brian Perry Civil) and Mayur Das (GHD)

The Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area Visitor Center, welcoming over 140,000 annual visitors, faced rising utility costs that threatened reduced hours. Turning to innovation, the Forest Service embraced the region's 289 sunny days a year by installing a photovoltaic solar power system. This system, funded by the 2010 Forest Service Recovery Act, became operational in 2012, supplying 46% of the center's annual electricity needs. Beyond slashing monthly utility bills, the Forest Service secured a rebate through the California Solar Initiative, furthering their commitment to sustainable energy. Designed to blend seamlessly with the scenic integrity of the area, this system stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship. The savings also allow reinvestment into energy-efficient upgrades for other forest facilities. This project highlights how renewable energy can preserve public services, reduce carbon footprints, and promote financial sustainability. #sustainability #renewableenergy #solarenergy #california #environment #solarpowered #solarinstallation #solarcarport

Welsh Government announces £10m for green energy projects The Welsh Government has announced up to £10m in grant funding for 32 community green energy projects across the country. Projects which won funding through the highly competitive application process included the deployment of solar panels and heat pumps as well as battery storage and electric vehicle charging points. Schemes were selected to “smarten up” the use of energy across a wide range of organisations including: schools, leisure centres, care homes, business parks, community centres, and activity centres, the Welsh Government said. Read the full story on the Transport + Energy website: https://lnkd.in/eVHRiZer Llywodraeth Cymru / Welsh Government , Rebecca Evans #transport #energy

I am proud to have contributed to the latest International Energy Agency (IEA) report that explores the role of community-focused initiatives and their impacts. Key findings: Community-focused initiatives can reduce costs and relieve strain on power systems. In the UK more than 200 000 people are engaged in projects and have contributed to reduced bills for participants worth over GBP 3 million. Implementation of community projects is creating job opportunities. Local solar development in the United States can create five more jobs on a per-megawatt basis than utility scale solar generation Community-centred energy projects are also effective vehicles for more inclusive, equitable and resilient energy systems. Explore the full report here: https://lnkd.in/g3GzhgV3 Register to join the webinar launch event on 16th May at 14:00 (Paris time) here: https://lnkd.in/gcZdFs7Y

🌞 Exciting Developments in Multi-Family Solar: Addressing Challenges and Promoting Energy Equity As the solar industry continues to evolve, we're seeing innovative solutions emerge to tackle longstanding challenges. A recent development that caught my eye is Allume Energy's SolShare model, which aims to revolutionize solar installations for multi-family buildings. Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Illinois has $30 million in incentives for multi-family solar, yet no applications have been received. This highlights a significant gap between policy intentions and practical implementation. 2️⃣ Urban areas face unique challenges: residents in environmental justice and lower-income neighborhoods often live in multi-family buildings where traditional solar installations are complex and costly. 3️⃣ SolShare technology simplifies the process by allowing energy to be sent directly to individual units with a single inverter and system, reducing costs and complexity. 4️⃣ The focus on energy equity is crucial. By making solar accessible to lower-income and long-term renters, we're ensuring that the benefits of clean energy reach those who need it most. 5️⃣ Real-world impact: A 64-unit apartment in Orlando saw nearly $100 monthly savings per unit and a 60% reduction in grid electricity consumption. Industry Implications: This development could be a game-changer for urban solar adoption. It addresses key barriers that have long hindered solar uptake in multi-family dwellings, potentially opening up a vast new market segment. The EPA's $7 billion commitment to the Solar for All program further underscores the growing focus on equity in renewable energy. As an industry, we need to be ready to capitalize on these opportunities and ensure our solutions are inclusive and accessible. What are your thoughts on this development? How do you see it impacting the solar landscape in urban areas? Let's discuss in the comments! #SolarEnergy #RenewableEnergy #EnergyEquity #CleanTech #Sustainability 👉 Interested in exploring how MySolarHome can help bring innovative solar solutions to your community? Let's connect and discuss how we can work together to create a more sustainable future.

🔒🌞 Excited to share my latest Medium article: "Securing Your Assets: Solar Renaissance: Exploring New Frontiers of Solar Panel Utilization Amid China's Rise and Cost Decline" 🚀💼 Join me as we navigate the evolving landscape of solar energy and its impact on asset protection, innovation, and resilience. Whether you're a business leader, sustainability advocate, or simply curious about the future of clean energy, this article promises insights that will leave you inspired and informed. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of the conversation! Like, share, and engage with this publication to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding solar innovation, asset security, and the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Together, let's harness the power of solar technology to secure our assets and build a brighter tomorrow. 🔒🌍 #SolarRenaissance #AssetSecurity #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #Innovation https://lnkd.in/dk9wViZ9