#solar panel programs in california

[renewenergy123]

Off-Grid Solar Systems in California: A Complete Guide to Solar Independence

As California continues to lead the charge in sustainable energy, the popularity of off-grid solar systems has surged. Whether for remote areas, emergency backup, or achieving energy independence, off-grid solar systems offer a reliable solution. Coupled with a variety of solar panel programs in California, making the shift to solar energy has become more accessible and affordable for residents. This article explores the benefits of off-grid solar systems, the different programs available, and how you can get started with solar energy in California.

What Are Off-Grid Solar Systems?

Off-grid solar systems are standalone power systems that generate electricity from solar panels without relying on the traditional grid. These systems use solar panels to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, which is then stored in batteries for use when the sun isn’t shining. Off-grid systems can be ideal for remote locations where connecting to the utility grid is challenging or for homeowners who want to achieve complete energy independence.

The components of an off-grid solar system typically include:

Solar Panels: Convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.

Battery Storage: Stores the electricity generated for use when solar energy isn't available.

Charge Controller: Regulates the power going into the battery storage.

Inverter: Converts DC electricity from the batteries into alternating current (AC) for home use.

Backup Generator (Optional): Provides an additional power source during extended cloudy periods.

Benefits of Off-Grid Solar Systems in California

Energy Independence One of the main advantages of off-grid solar systems is the ability to generate your own power without relying on the utility grid. This independence ensures that your energy needs are met regardless of grid outages or utility rate hikes. For those living in remote areas, off-grid systems can provide a stable power source where traditional electricity is unavailable.

Cost Savings While the upfront cost of installing an off-grid solar system may be higher than grid-tied systems, the long-term savings can be significant. Off-grid systems eliminate monthly electricity bills, and with California’s high energy rates, this can translate to substantial savings over time. Additionally, advancements in technology have made solar components more affordable, allowing homeowners to recoup their investment faster.

Environmental Impact By using off-grid solar systems, you reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help decrease carbon emissions. Solar energy is a clean and renewable resource that contributes to a more sustainable future. California, being an environmentally conscious state, provides various incentives to promote the use of clean energy.

Resilience in Power Outages In recent years, California has experienced rolling blackouts and power shutoffs due to wildfires. Off-grid solar systems provide a reliable source of electricity during such events, allowing homeowners to maintain essential power even when the grid goes down.

Challenges of Off-Grid Solar Systems

Despite the benefits, there are some challenges associated with off-grid solar systems:

Higher Initial Costs: The upfront investment is typically higher than for grid-tied systems due to the need for battery storage and other components.

Energy Storage Limitations: Battery storage can be expensive and may not provide enough power for extended periods without sunlight. You may need a backup generator for extended cloudy days.

Maintenance Requirements: Off-grid systems require regular maintenance to ensure battery health and system performance.

Solar Panel Programs in California

California has various programs and incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy. These programs aim to make solar installations more affordable, and they often include tax incentives, rebates, and financing options.

California Solar Initiative (CSI) The California Solar Initiative offers cash rebates for the installation of solar systems in homes and businesses. While the program's funds have been depleted in many areas, it remains one of the foundational programs that helped establish California as a leader in solar energy adoption.

Net Energy Metering (NEM) While primarily associated with grid-tied systems, Net Energy Metering allows solar customers to receive credits for excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. NEM can still benefit off-grid homeowners if they choose to remain connected to the grid as a backup or for selling excess power.

Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) The SGIP offers incentives for energy storage systems, such as battery backup for solar power. This program is particularly beneficial for those with off-grid systems, as it helps reduce the cost of battery storage. The incentive amount is based on the size and type of battery system installed, making it easier for homeowners to add energy storage to their solar setup.

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) PACE programs allow property owners to finance solar installations through their property taxes. The financing is repaid over time through an additional assessment on the property tax bill. This makes it easier for homeowners to cover the upfront costs of going solar without paying out-of-pocket.

Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) Although not specific to California, the Federal Solar Tax Credit allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes. This incentive applies to off-grid and grid-tied systems and significantly reduces the initial financial burden of installing solar panels.

Local Utility Programs Some local utilities in California offer additional rebates and incentives for solar installations. Checking with your local utility provider can uncover specific programs that apply to your region.

Steps to Install an Off-Grid Solar System in California

Evaluate Your Energy Needs Start by calculating your energy consumption. Understanding your power needs will help determine the size of your solar system and the required battery storage capacity.

Site Assessment A site assessment involves evaluating the location for solar panel installation, including the amount of sunlight, roof orientation, and space for panels and batteries. Solar professionals can conduct this assessment to ensure optimal performance.

Design the System The design phase involves selecting the appropriate components, including solar panels, battery storage, inverters, and charge controllers. Working with an experienced solar installer can ensure that your system is designed for maximum efficiency.

Obtain Permits and Incentives Before installation, you'll need to obtain the necessary permits and apply for any applicable incentives or rebates. California has streamlined processes for solar permitting, but local regulations may still apply.

Install the System Professional installation is recommended to ensure the system is correctly set up. Proper installation will ensure the system's safety, efficiency, and compliance with local regulations.

Regular Maintenance After installation, periodic maintenance is required, especially for the battery storage system. Ensuring the batteries are in good condition will extend the lifespan of the off-grid solar system.

Choosing the Right Installer for Off-Grid Solar Systems in California

Selecting a qualified installer is crucial for a successful off-grid solar installation. Look for companies that have:

Experience with off-grid systems.

Knowledge of local solar panel programs in California.

Good reviews and a strong reputation.

Proper licensing and insurance.

Conclusion

Off-grid solar systems in California provide an opportunity to achieve energy independence while contributing to environmental sustainability. With various solar panel programs and incentives available, the transition to solar power has never been more accessible. While the initial costs may be higher than grid-tied systems, the long-term benefits, such as cost savings, resilience during power outages, and reduced environmental impact, make off-grid solar an attractive option for many homeowners.

By understanding your energy needs and exploring the available programs, you can make informed decisions about installing an off-grid solar system. With the right planning and installation, you can enjoy the freedom and benefits that come with generating your own renewable energy.

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - October 8-14

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

1. All 160 dogs at Florida shelter found homes ahead of Hurricane Milton

“[The shelter] offered crates, food and anything else the dogs would need in exchange for the animals to spend just five days with the foster parents if the human didn't want to keep them for longer. […A]fter about a day of receiving around 100 messages every 30 minutes, Bada said, all 160 were gone from the shelter and in safe and warm homes.”

2. Restoring Ecosystems and Rejuvenating Native Hawaiian Traditions in Maui

“[Volunteers] are restoring water flow to the refuge, removing invasive species, and restoring a loko iʻa kalo using ʻike kūpuna, ancestral knowledge. […] This human-made ecosystem will provide food for community members and habitat for wildlife while protecting coral reefs offshore.”

3. Solar-powered desalination system requires no extra batteries

“In contrast to other solar-driven desalination designs, the MIT system requires no extra batteries for energy storage, nor a supplemental power supply, such as from the grid. […] The system harnessed on average over 94 percent of the electrical energy generated from the system’s solar panels to produce up to 5,000 liters of water per day[….]”

4. Threatened pink sea fan coral breeds in UK aquarium for first time

“The spawning is part of University of Exeter Ph.D. student Kaila Wheatley Kornblum's research into the reproduction, larval dispersal and population connectivity of Eunicella verrucosa. […] Pink sea fans are believed to have been successfully bred by only one other institution, Lisbon Oceanarium, in 2023.”

5. Tiny 'backpacks' are being strapped to baby turtles[….]

““We analysed the data and found that hatchlings show amazingly consistent head-up orientation – despite being in the complete dark, surrounded by sand [… and] they move as if they were swimming rather than digging[…. This new observation method is] answering questions about best conservation practices,” says Dor.”

6. New California Law Protects Wildlife Connectivity

“A new state law in California will instruct counties and municipalities to conserve wildlife corridors when planning new development. […] This could entail everything from creating wildlife crossings at roads or highways, employing wildlife-safe fencing, or not developing on certain land.”

7. ‘I think, boy, I’m a part of all this’: how local heroes reforested Rio’s green heart

“By 2019, [the program] had transformed the city’s landscape, having trained 15,000 local workers like Leleco, who have planted 10m seedlings across […] roughly 10 times the area of New York’s Central Park. Reforested sites include mangroves and vegetation-covered sandbars called restinga, as well as wooded mountainsides around favelas.”

8. Alabama Town Plans to Drop Criminal Charges Over Unpaid Garbage Bills

““Suspending garbage pickup, imposing harsh late penalties and prosecuting people who through no fault of their own are unable to pay their garbage and sewage bills does not make payment suddenly forthcoming,” West said. [… The city] has agreed to drop pending criminal charges against its residents over unpaid garbage bills.”

9. New Hampshire’s low-income community solar program finally moves forward

“The state energy department is reviewing seven proposals for community solar arrays that will allocate a portion of their bill credits to low-income households. […] New Hampshire’s strategy of working with utilities to automatically enroll households that have already been identified streamlines the process.”

10. The Future Looks Bright for Electric School Buses

“EPA has awarded about $3 billion in grants from the infrastructure law, which paid to replace about 8,700 buses. Of those, about 95 percent are electric. [… Electric buses are] cheaper to operate and require less maintenance than diesel buses and will soon be at cost parity when looking at the lifetime cost of ownership[….]”

October 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.)

[afeelgoodblog]

The Best News of Last Week

🦾 - High-Five for Bionic Hand

1. Houston-area school district announces free breakfast and lunch for students

Pasadena ISD students will be getting free breakfast and lunch for the 2023-24 school year, per an announcement on the district's social media pages.

The 2023-24 free lunch program is thanks to a Community Eligibility Provision grant the district applied for last year. The CEP, which is distributed by the Department of Agriculture, is specially geared toward providing free meals for low-income students.

2. Dolphin and her baby rescued after being trapped in pond for 2 years

A pair of dolphins that spent nearly two years stuck in a Louisiana pond system are back at sea thanks to the help of several agencies and volunteers.

According to the Audubon Nature Institute, wildlife observers believe the mother dolphin and her baby were pushed into the pond system near Grand Isle, Louisiana, during Hurricane Ida in late August 2021.

3. Studies show that putting solar panels over waterways could boost clean energy and conserve water. The first U.S. pilot project is getting underway in California.

Some 8,000 miles of federally owned canals snake across the United States, channeling water to replenish crops, fuel hydropower plants and supply drinking water to rural communities. In the future, these narrow waterways could serve an additional role: as hubs of solar energy generation.

4. Gene therapy eyedrops restored a boy's sight. Similar treatments could help millions

Antonio was born with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that causes blisters all over his body and in his eyes. But his skin improved when he joined a clinical trial to test the world’s first topical gene therapy.

The same therapy was applied to his eyes. Antonio, who’s been legally blind for much of his 14 years, can see again.

5. Scientists develop game-changing vaccine against Lyme disease ticks!

A major step in battling Lyme disease and other dangerous tick-borne viruses may have been taken as researchers announced they have developed a vaccine against the ticks themselves.

Rather than combatting the effects of the bacteria or microbe that causes Lyme disease, the vaccine targets the microbiota of the tick, according to a paper published in the journal Microbiota on Monday.

6. HIV Transmission Virtually Eliminated in Inner Sydney, Australia

Sydney may be the first city in the world to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Inner Sydney has reduced new HIV acquisitions by 88%, meaning it may be the first locality in the world to reach the UN target to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030

7. New bionic hand allows amputees to control each finger with unprecedented accuracy

In a world first, surgeons and engineers have developed a new bionic hand that allows users with arm amputations to effortlessly control each finger as though it was their own body.

Successful testing of the bionic hand has already been conducted on a patient who lost his arm above the elbow.

----

That's it for this week :)

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[wonderhecko]

california just these last couple years enacted drastic changes to their residential solar program due to a glut of power (it has to go somewhere, theres more being produced than being used) which predictably led to an enormous decline in new installations. the whatever-thousand panels going into this field could have been distributed across whatever-thousand houses if theyre needed so badly

[mightyflamethrower]

Biden’s ironically named Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was supposed to create millions of green jobs and launch the “sustainable power” industry.

Subsidies flowed to support electric vehicles, wind farms, and solar energy.  We have been covering the slowdown in the EV market, and residents of the East Coast are questioning all the promises made by the wind energy companies after the Vineyard Wind blade failure.

Now, it’s time to turn our attention to solar power. SunPower, the company that provides solar panels to many Californian homes in the sunny Coachella Valley area, filed for bankruptcy this week.

It is the latest development in a saga that has seen the company facing numerous serious and seemingly escalating challenges over the past several months, including allegations about executives’ misconduct related to the company’s financial statements and a recent decision that SunPower would no longer offer new solar leases. Days after the latter announcement, Coachella Valley-based Renova Energy, which markets and installs SunPower systems, said it was ending its partnership with SunPower and temporarily pausing operations after not receiving required payments from SunPower. SunPower’s executive chairman wrote in a letter posted on the company’s website on Monday that the company had reached an agreement to sell certain divisions of its business and suggested it was looking for one or more buyers to take on the rest, including the company’s responsibilities to maintain solar systems it has previously sold or leased.

It is important to note that SunPower was the industry’s “darling” to understand the magnitude of this development.

Founded in 1985 by a Stanford professor, SunPower was, for the past two decades, a darling of the solar industry. The company helped build America’s biggest solar plant, called Solar Star and located near Rosamond, California, and has installed solar panels on more than 100,000 homes. The company’s stock price has fluctuated dramatically, peaking during the solar stock frenzy of late 2007. As recently as January 2021, SunPower’s valuation momentarily reached $10 billion, buoyed by the expansion of its residential solar panels program. But since then, the company’s value has cratered — and this year, its situation became particularly dire.

It is also important to note that earlier this month, the bankruptcy of a solar-powered company in South Florida created an array of problems on the South Coast of California. Subcontractors are scrambling to find ways to guarantee payment for work on homes with equipment from the firm.

Meanwhile, homeowners are regretting their misplaced trust in eco-activists and city officials.

The business — Electriq Power Inc. — was putting solar panels and batteries on Santa Barbara rooftops at no expense to homeowners and with the blessings of the cities of Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Carpinteria. But then Electriq filed Chapter 7 on May 3, freezing all its operations. This prompted one of its subcontractors, Axiom 360 of Grover Beach, to place mechanics liens on homes for which it had yet to be paid. This preserves Axiom’s options for full payment of its installation work and is not unusual among contractors. But for homeowners who didn’t expect any financial outlay, it came as a shock, especially as the recording notice lists foreclosure in 90 days among the penalties. “You’re helping the environment. You’re not paying high rates to Southern California Edison,” said homeowner Randy Freed, explaining why he signed on to Electriq’s PoweredUp Goleta program. He was pleased with the savings in the solar array and storage batteries, but then he received the mechanics lien in June. The possibility of foreclosure was unanticipated, Freed said, and he’d relied on the cities’ endorsements. “It’s a great program; we’ve checked them out,” he recalled the cities saying on a postcard he received.

Hot Air's Beege Welborne takes an in-depth look at the cascade of warnings that indicate SunPower and the residential solar market are in serious trouble. She also hits on a point that is true for all green energy schemes: Today’s technology cannot keep up with the promises being made about tomorrow.

The technology side still hasn’t ironed itself out and may never with as saturated as the market is. With interest rates as high as they are and home prices through the roof, no one wants to pay a fortune for something that’s not rock solid. …That “sustainable” growth is only possible once all the artificial supports are knocked away and the technology proves viable and worth the cost once and for all.

Of course, the solar industry isn’t helped by the fact that the cost savings for customers aren’t quite as lavish as originally promised.

[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.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA's new Deep Space Network antenna has its crowning moment

Deep Space Station 23's 133-ton reflector dish was recently installed, marking a key step in strengthening NASA's Deep Space Network.

NASA's Deep Space Network, an array of giant radio antennas, allows agency missions to track, send commands to, and receive scientific data from spacecraft venturing to the moon and beyond. NASA is adding a new antenna, bringing the total to 15, to support increased demand for the world's largest and most sensitive radio frequency telecommunication system.

Installation of the latest antenna took place on Dec. 18, when teams at NASA's Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex near Barstow, California, installed the metal reflector framework for Deep Space Station 23, a multifrequency beam-waveguide antenna.

When operational in 2026, Deep Space Station 23 will receive transmissions from missions such as Perseverance, Psyche, Europa Clipper, Voyager 1, and a growing fleet of future human and robotic spacecraft in deep space.

"This addition to the Deep Space Network represents a crucial communication upgrade for the agency," said Kevin Coggins, deputy associate administrator of NASA's SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) program.

"The communications infrastructure has been in continuous operation since its creation in 1963, and with this upgrade we are ensuring NASA is ready to support the growing number of missions exploring the moon, Mars, and beyond."

Construction of the new antenna has been under way for more than four years, and during the installation, teams used a crawler crane to lower the 133-ton metal skeleton of the 112-foot-wide (34-meter-wide) parabolic reflector before it was bolted to a 65-foot-high (20-meter-high) alidade, a platform above the antenna's pedestal that will steer the reflector during operations.

"One of the biggest challenges facing us during the lift was to ensure that 40 bolt-holes were perfectly aligned between the structure and alidade," said Germaine Aziz, systems engineer, Deep Space Network Aperture Enhancement Program of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.

"This required a meticulous emphasis on alignment prior to the lift to guarantee everything went smoothly on the day."

Following the main lift, engineers carried out a lighter lift to place a quadripod, a four-legged support structure weighing 16.5 tons, onto the center of the upward-facing reflector. The quadripod features a curved subreflector that will direct radio frequency signals from deep space that bounce off the main reflector into the antenna's pedestal, where the antenna's receivers are housed.

Engineers will now work to fit panels onto the steel skeleton to create a curved surface to reflect radio frequency signals. Once complete, Deep Space Station 23 will be the fifth of six new beam-waveguide antennas to join the network, following Deep Space Station 53, which was added at the Deep Space Network's Madrid complex in 2022.

"With the Deep Space Network, we are able to explore the Martian landscape with our rovers, see the James Webb Space Telescope's stunning cosmic observations, and so much more," said Laurie Leshin, director of JPL.

"The network enables over 40 deep space missions, including the farthest human-made objects in the universe, Voyager 1 and 2. With upgrades like these, the network will continue to support humanity's exploration of our solar system and beyond, enabling groundbreaking science and discovery far into the future."

NASA's Deep Space Network is managed by JPL, with the oversight of NASA's SCaN Program. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on the Deep Space Network and Near Space Network, including supporting astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitoring Earth's weather and the effects of climate change, supporting lunar exploration, and uncovering the solar system and beyond.

IMAGE: A crane lowers the steel reflector framework for Deep Space Station 23 into position Dec. 18 on a 65-foot-high (20-meter) platform above the antenna’s pedestal that will steer the reflector. Panels will be affixed to the structure to create a curved surface to collect radio frequency signals. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

[plethoraworldatlas]

1. The ACC will train and employ 20,000 people in climate and clean energy jobs

The ACC will mobilize a new, diverse generation by training them in skills crucial to combating climate change—everything from installing solar panels to improving communities' natural disaster resilience to restoring critical ecosystems. And with a shortage of skilled clean energy workers, the ACC couldn’t come at a better time. We need more tradespeople, installing things like electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps, to decarbonize our economy. 

There’s an emphasis on building career pathways, not just jobs. To achieve this, the White House will partner with unions and is committed to providing members with the hard skills and transferable credentials that will allow them to find good-paying jobs or seek further training through apprenticeships and trade schools after their service. This includes potentially expanding access to scholarships and awards that would support post-secondary education and training or reduce student debt and streamlined pathways into civil service. The best part? No prior experience is required for most positions, and very few will require college degrees.

2. The ACC prioritizes equity and environmental justice

While the ACC draws upon the ambition of The New Deal and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps, it also learns from its fundamental flaws.

FDR’s Corps lacked diversity, perpetuated white supremacy, and almost entirely excluded women, but Biden’s Corps puts equity and environmental justice at its core. It prioritizes communities traditionally left behind, including energy communities, whose lives have been dominated and shaped by the fossil fuel industry, and disadvantaged communities, who disproportionately suffer from a combination of environmental, economic, and health burdens.

The ACC follows the same targets of the administration’s Justice40 goal, where 40 percent of the benefits must be directed towards disadvantaged communities.

3. The ACC employs an all-of-government approach

The ACC is built on a hub-and-spoke model with AmeriCorps at the center. The White House is launching a dedicated ACC recruitment website, where participants can learn about and apply for opportunities in their communities, and across the country, that span all spheres of the clean energy economy.

The administration is partnering AmeriCorps with at least five other federal agencies (Department of Labor, Department of the Interior, U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Department of Energy) to pool resources, coordinate recruitment, and fund corps members to work on specific projects that address the climate crisis.

Additionally, the administration will partner with at least 10 states. California, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, and Washington have already launched similar programs, while five more (Arizona, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Utah) are creating their own Corps.

[beardedmrbean]

President Joe Biden’s landmark Inflation Reduction Act is packed with billions of dollars’ worth of credits and rebates for purchasing electric cars and making home improvements that save energy. 

If you earn enough each year to owe the federal government money in taxes, then the credits that kicked in on Jan. 1 for buying an electric vehicle or setting up charging stations at home will shave thousands of dollars off your bill to the Internal Revenue Service. 

But if you’re a low- and middle-income homeowner looking for help covering the cost of swapping a fuel-burning furnace for an electric heat pump, you’ll have to wait until later next year for a rebate. If your existing appliance breaks in the meantime and you go green with the replacement, there’s no guarantee you’ll get any money back.

“It’s completely unacceptable,” Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) told HuffPost by phone Friday.

On Monday, Huffman and at least 65 other House Democrats signed a letter to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm demanding that her agency revise its rulebook to allow states to make all rebates retroactively available once states get programs started. 

“If you’re one of the wealthy folks that can access tax credits, you’re doing just fine,” Huffman said. “But if you’re a middle-class or working family and you’re counting on those more generous rebates to make all of this feasible for you, the Department of Energy is telling you that you have to wait indefinitely: If you were dumb enough to go ahead and buy these things because we’ve all been telling you to do it, you’re out of luck.”

Improved energy efficiency with heat pump technology and new tax incentives have contributed to the popularity of heat pumps as many homeowners face increased heating costs.

The issue centers on a nearly $9 billion pot of funding in the IRA meant to help homeowners buy electric appliances and upgrade homes to cut back on energy usage. The federal government is set to give the money to states to distribute directly to homeowners. But it took until July 27 — nearly a year after the IRA’s passage — for the Department of Energy to finish writing its rulebook for determining who is eligible for rebates. 

The guidance said appliances purchased between when the IRA passed and a state launches its rebate program would not be eligible for rebates — even though the law states that eligibility begins upon enactment of the statute. 

In a historic law packed with incentives for corporations to buy electric vehicles and build solar-panel factories, the rebates were designed as one of the few consumer-facing programs and among the biggest to primarily benefit anyone who isn’t rich. That most homeowners won’t get a taste of those rebates until the fall of 2024 at the earliest will only make it harder for Democrats to sell voters on the legislation before they head to the polls next November. 

The problem first came to light in Huffman’s home state of California, which arguably has the country’s most advanced existing rebate program for making energy-efficiency upgrades. In an Aug. 27 column, The San Francisco Chronicle’s Joe Garofoli detailed the woes of various homeowners who considered replacing fuel-burning furnaces with electric heat pumps until learning that the new federal rebates to cover as much as $8,000 of the $20,000 it could cost to buy and install the appliance were not guaranteed. 

“This is California,” a Nevada City resident named Ken Bradford, who was waiting to replace his propane-fueled furnace, told the columnist. “You’d think that California would be ahead of the curve on this. But not so.”

The bottleneck, however, is on the federal level. California could not begin applying for its rebates program to distribute the IRA money until the federal Energy Department released its guidelines — which did not come out until July 27.

The state is now working on designing its program. But the California Energy Commission said it can’t guarantee that appliances purchased between now and the launch of its program sometime next year will be covered unless the Energy Department revises its guidance. 

Despite months of back-and-forth with the Energy Department, Huffman said the agency has so far refused to change the rulebook. 

An Energy Department spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.  ___________________

I always was told it was the GOP that was reducing taxes for the rich, so this is a shocker.

For an added layer of fun, go have a look at what's going on with medicare in California.

Huffman blamed understaffing for the delays in writing the rules in the first place and admitted that the highly technical nature of the rebate program made implementation difficult. He said he suspects the added complication of applying rebates retroactively is behind the holdup. 

“It’s easier for bureaucrats to stand up a program that doesn’t apply retroactively; it’s easier to just make it point-of-sale, prospective only,” Huffman said. “It may take them another year and a half to do it, but it’s just easier for them.” 

The IRA “clearly authorizes retroactive rebates, stating that Home Efficiency Rebates ‘shall’ be provided for ‘retrofits begun on or after the date of enactment’ and saying nothing to the contrary regarding the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate,” the letter reads.

Until the administration begins distributing advanced administrative funds to help states hire for and develop their programs, the understaffing problems threaten to trickle down, further delaying payouts to homeowners, the letter said. 

“Because of delays in finalizing program guidance and distributing administrative funds, we are informed that states may be unable to offer rebates until the Fall of 2024 or later, which would be more than two years after IRA enactment,” the letter reads. “We urge DOE to prioritize getting this critical program on a faster, more effective track by working with states, territories, and tribes to ensure there are no further delays or obstacles going forward.”

[energy-5]

Incorporating Renewable Energy into Your EV Charging Routine

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has been a significant stride in the collective effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, with global sales hitting over 6.6 million in 2021, a 108% increase from the previous year, the focus now turns to how we power these vehicles. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources for EV charging is the next critical step in ensuring that the benefits of EVs are fully realized. This article explores the ways in which individuals and communities can incorporate renewable energy into their EV charging routines.

Firstly, the concept of 'green charging'—the process of using renewable energy to charge electric vehicles—is not only environmentally sound but also increasingly economically viable. The cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has dropped by about 90% since 2010, making it an accessible option for many. Homeowners with EVs can install solar panels to capture energy during the day, which can then be used to charge their vehicles in the evening. For those without the option to install solar panels, choosing a green energy provider for their home charging setup that sources electricity from renewables is an effective alternative.

In addition to solar power, wind energy is another potent source for EV charging. Wind energy has experienced a dramatic increase in its adoption, with the global wind power capacity reaching 837 GW in 2021, an increase of 93% from the capacity in 2016. EV owners can tap into this resource by purchasing wind energy credits or by selecting energy plans that prioritize wind-sourced electricity. This ensures that the energy used for charging their EVs comes from clean sources, even if they are not directly connected to a wind farm.

The integration of smart chargers has made it easier for EV owners to charge their vehicles when renewable energy production is at its peak. Smart chargers can be programmed to operate when renewable energy generation is high, which usually coincides with low demand periods such as mid-day for solar or night-time for wind. By doing so, EV owners ensure their vehicles are charged using the cleanest energy possible while also taking advantage of lower energy prices during these off-peak times.

Another key element in aligning EV charging with renewable energy is the development of a robust public charging infrastructure that is powered by renewables. Governments and private companies are investing in the installation of public EV charging stations that are directly connected to renewable energy sources. For instance, in California, which leads the US with over 39% of the country's EV sales, there is a plan to install 250,000 charging stations by 2025, many of which will be powered by renewables.

On a larger scale, energy storage systems play a vital role in matching renewable energy supply with EV charging demand. Energy storage solutions, like lithium-ion batteries or pumped hydro storage, can store excess renewable energy generated during peak production times. This stored energy can then be used to provide a consistent and reliable source of green electricity for EV charging, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.

There is also a growing trend towards vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems, where EVs do not just consume power but also have the capability to return energy to the grid. This technology allows for a dynamic energy exchange where EVs can be charged during renewable energy peak production and then supply energy back to the grid when it's needed the most. This not only ensures optimal use of renewable energy but also provides stability to the energy grid and potentially offers financial benefits to EV owners.

Finally, to truly capitalize on renewable energy for EV charging, there needs to be increased collaboration between policymakers, renewable energy providers, and the automotive industry. Incentives for residential and commercial solar installations, tax benefits for purchasing green energy, and subsidies for smart chargers are just a few of the ways that can accelerate the adoption of renewable-powered EV charging.

[stephenjaymorrisblog]

Robots Don’t Care About Fringe Benefits

(Was Issac Assimov another Nostradamus?)

Stephen Jay Morris

1/19/2023

©Scientific Morality

Yesterday I saw a video by the company, Boston Dynamics. It featured robots that made human gesticulations! Acrobatic skills of Olympian athletes! They jumped into the air, pivoted like marching Marines, and then, performed back flips! Plus, they lifted weights and flung heavy objects! Fascinating!

Immediately, my memory went to Charlie Chaplin’s 1936 movie, “Modern Times.” The movie warns all about the dangers of automation. Then, I thought of Issac Assimov’s,well-known, fictional books about robots. One of his best was 1942’s, “Three Laws of Robotics,” which explores the supposition that artificial intelligence can evolve into consciousness of Homo Sapiens. Could it happen? Absolutely.

Technology—theoretically and ideologically—is available to serve all of mankind. But the way the current American economic system is structured, it follows that only the ruling class could control the construction or utilization of Robots. Next to human slavery, robotics is a capitalist’s wet dream. No longer would they have to pay wages, or provide health care costs, to workers. And, not only in the warehouse assembly lines, but in the fields of landscaping, street maintenance, solar panel repair, and food harvesting in Central California. Illegal and legal aliens would no longer be needed.

This scenario would apply not only to labor, but to entertainment, as well. Who’d need athletes anymore? Human athletes ultimately get injured and management loses money. Why not have robot football players? Or baseball players? Or basketball players? Why stop there: how about actors? Maybe a robot could do stunt work. But acting? That could be 500 years into the future.

Consider sex work. Sex robots could replace prostitutes. No risk of unwanted pregnancies or socially transmitted diseases there!

Another risk eliminated with using robots would be in fighting crime. A robot could disarm a crazy shooter without getting injured or killed.

And, what about warfare? Robots could fight other robots, on the front lines, with high-powered weapons. After an atom bomb exploded, robots—if programmed properly—could rebuild society.

So, what is it that’s missing in this equation? Humanity! The poor would suffer the most. As it goes, what else is new? And the rich would prosper even more. They’d have robotic butlers and maids, and solar powered vehicles driven by robotic drivers to serve the master race.

At the bottom line, technology has two options: either to serve the wealthy rulers, or help the needy. What do you think will be the choice in the USA? My money is on the rich pigs.

Will there be woke robots or CHUD robots? Once again, I choose the latter. Conservative freedom only benefits owners of property and wealth. It is not designed for all people, only a chosen few. Egalitarianism is ignominious to an egotist. The elitist of any stripe will bellow in the night, “Why should I be equal to the slobs and smelly, poor people? Let them rot until death takes over!” Now, keep in mind, in order to have wealth, there must be poverty. So, the poor will be necessary so morticians can continue to make money, and robots can bury all the dead paupers.

Now comes the fictional proposition: What if an Anarchist scientist was to create anarcho-scientist robots for the people? Do you think the corporate elite would tolerate that? Me neither. I believe in technology and science for the people. Better woke than CHUD!

[renewenergy123]

Empowering Sustainable Living: A Comprehensive Guide to California Solar Incentives and California Solar Panel Programs

As the push for renewable energy gains momentum, California stands out as a leader in solar energy adoption. With abundant sunshine and progressive environmental policies, the Golden State is an ideal place for solar energy investments. Homeowners and businesses alike can benefit from various California solar incentives and California solar panel programs designed to make solar energy more accessible and affordable. This blog will delve into the details of these incentives and programs, providing a thorough guide for anyone looking to harness the power of the sun in California.

The Importance of Solar Energy in California

Solar energy is crucial for California's ambitious climate goals. The state aims to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2045, and solar power is a key component of this plan. By transitioning to solar energy, Californians can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a sustainable future.

Overview of California Solar Incentives

California offers a variety of incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy. These incentives are designed to reduce the upfront costs of solar installations and provide long-term financial benefits.

1. Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

While not specific to California, the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a significant incentive for solar adopters. The ITC allows homeowners and businesses to deduct a substantial percentage of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes. Currently, the ITC covers 26% of the installation costs for systems installed in 2021-2022, but this percentage is set to decrease unless extended by Congress.

2. California Solar Initiative (CSI)

The California Solar Initiative (CSI) is a comprehensive solar rebate program that has significantly contributed to the growth of solar energy in the state. While the program has largely concluded for residential customers, it still offers incentives for multifamily affordable housing and commercial properties. The CSI provides rebates based on the performance of the solar energy system, encouraging high-quality installations that maximize energy production.

3. Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)

The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides incentives for energy storage systems, which are often paired with solar panels. By installing a battery storage system, homeowners and businesses can store excess solar energy for use during peak hours or power outages. SGIP offers substantial rebates that can cover a significant portion of the storage system's cost, making it an attractive option for those looking to enhance their energy resilience.

4. Net Energy Metering (NEM)

Net Energy Metering (NEM) is a crucial policy for solar adopters in California. NEM allows solar panel owners to send excess electricity back to the grid in exchange for credits on their utility bills. These credits can offset future energy costs, ensuring that homeowners and businesses get the most value from their solar installations. NEM 2.0, the current iteration of the program, maintains favorable terms for solar customers, but changes are expected with the upcoming NEM 3.0, so staying informed about policy updates is important.

5. Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing is an innovative program that allows property owners to finance the cost of solar installations and other energy efficiency improvements through their property taxes. PACE financing offers low-interest rates and long repayment terms, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to invest in solar energy without a significant upfront cost.

6. Local Rebates and Incentives

In addition to state-wide programs, many local utilities and municipalities in California offer their own solar incentives. These can include additional rebates, grants, and low-interest loans. It's worth checking with your local utility company and government to see what specific incentives are available in your area.

California Solar Panel Programs

1. California Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program

The California Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) program aims to bring the benefits of solar energy to low-income communities. SOMAH provides financial incentives for installing solar energy systems on multifamily affordable housing properties. The program covers up to 100% of the installation costs, ensuring that low-income tenants can benefit from lower energy bills and increased energy independence.

2. Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) Program

The Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) program is designed to provide solar energy to low-income homeowners. The program offers substantial rebates to cover the cost of solar installations, making it possible for low-income families to access clean, renewable energy. SASH is part of California's broader effort to ensure that the benefits of solar energy are equitably distributed.

3. Disadvantaged Communities - Single-family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) Program

Similar to the SASH program, the Disadvantaged Communities - Single-family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) program targets low-income homeowners in disadvantaged communities. DAC-SASH offers upfront rebates to cover the cost of solar installations, helping to reduce energy bills and improve energy resilience for families in underserved areas.

4. GoSolarCalifornia Campaign

The GoSolarCalifornia campaign is an initiative that provides information and resources to help homeowners and businesses navigate the process of going solar. The campaign's website offers tools to estimate solar costs and savings, find qualified solar installers, and learn about available incentives. GoSolarCalifornia is a valuable resource for anyone considering solar energy in the state.

Financial Considerations and Benefits

1. Long-term Savings

While the initial cost of a solar installation can be significant, the long-term savings are substantial. Solar panels can drastically reduce or even eliminate electricity bills, providing a reliable return on investment. In many cases, the savings on utility bills can offset the installation costs within a few years, leading to significant financial benefits over the system's lifespan.

2. Increased Property Value

Installing solar panels can increase the value of your property. Prospective buyers are often willing to pay a premium for homes with solar energy systems due to the lower energy costs and environmental benefits. Studies have shown that homes with solar panels tend to sell faster and at higher prices compared to non-solar homes.

3. Environmental Impact

Switching to solar energy significantly reduces your carbon footprint. Solar power generates electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants. By using solar energy, homeowners and businesses can contribute to reducing air pollution and combating climate change, supporting California's ambitious environmental goals.

4. Energy Independence

Solar energy provides greater energy independence. By generating your own electricity, you become less reliant on the grid and less vulnerable to utility rate increases. Solar energy systems with battery storage can provide a reliable backup power source, enhancing your property's resilience during power outages.

The Installation Process

1. Site Assessment

The first step in installing a solar energy system is a site assessment. A solar installer will evaluate your property to determine its suitability for solar panels. Factors considered include the orientation and pitch of your roof, shading from trees or other structures, and the overall condition of the roof.

2. System Design

Based on the site assessment, the solar installer will design a custom system tailored to your energy needs and property characteristics. This includes determining the optimal number and placement of solar panels, selecting the appropriate inverters and other components, and planning the wiring and mounting systems.

3. Permitting and Approvals

Before installation can begin, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities and your utility company. Your solar installer will typically handle this process, ensuring that all requirements are met and that the installation complies with local building codes and regulations.

4. Installation

The actual installation of a California solar energy system usually takes a few days. The solar installer will mount the panels on your roof, connect them to the inverters, and complete the wiring to integrate the system with your property's electrical system. Once the installation is complete, the system will be inspected to ensure it meets safety and performance standards.

5. Activation and Monitoring

After passing inspection, your solar energy system can be activated. Your solar installer will guide you through the process of turning on the system and monitoring its performance. Most modern systems include online monitoring tools that provide real-time data on energy production and consumption.

Conclusion

California solar incentives and California solar panel programs offer substantial financial benefits and support for those looking to embrace solar energy. From federal and state tax credits to local rebates and innovative financing options, the opportunities to reduce the cost of solar installations are abundant. Additionally, programs like SOMAH, SASH, and DAC-SASH ensure that the benefits of solar energy are accessible to low-income and disadvantaged communities. By taking advantage of these incentives and programs, homeowners and businesses can reduce their energy costs, increase their property values, and contribute to a sustainable future. Now is the perfect time to explore solar energy in California and join the growing community of solar-powered properties.

[crazy-pages]

This article is actually about a very serious problem. If you overgenerate electricity it increases the phase frequency of the power grid, and if that goes out of sync with your generators (including solar panels) it can destroy them. In the kind of way where your power grid is fucked for months. It is very very very very bad.

California started a program to make solar panels more affordable by offering very low interest rates for solar panels, to allow people to benefit from their lifetime $/energy cost that's below fossil fuels, without having to worry about the high frontloaded cost. However they did not do this for batteries. And power grid quality batteries with massive energy storage and serious charge-discharge lifetimes, are expensive.

And they did this because while solar panels are cheaper than fossil fuels per kilowatt hour of electricity over their lifetime, solar panels plus batteries are not. And California wanted a supplemented free market solution and didn't really want to think about the part that direct government intervention in the form of taxation and paying for this change would be necessary.

So everyone in California just kept adding solar panels to the grid with no disconnect mechanisms, until eventually it hit a point where at noon, solar panels generated more power than the entire grid needed. With no batteries to store the excess. This is a motherfucking power grid killer. It is a scenario where people get left in the fucking dark for months because of how badly it destroys the powergrid.

So the power grid authorities did the only thing they could do. They called up every industrial plant with heavy duty equipment and ovens they could and paid them to turn it on full blast (because using that equipment costs money in wear and tear even without the electricity cost). And in doing so, avoided disaster.

That's what this article is talking about. They are solar panel researchers criticizing a capitalist adoption strategy and promoting direct government intervention to create renewable energy. However as with most newspapers they don't get to choose the title, the editor picks the most provocative title that will get clicks.

[mdmotalebhossainraju]

City of Fresno Solar Permit: A Comprehensive Guide

The City of Fresno is known for its sunny climate, making it an ideal location for solar energy adoption. With the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, solar power systems are becoming a popular choice among homeowners and businesses in Fresno. However, installing a solar energy system requires navigating the permitting process to ensure compliance with local regulations. This article provides a detailed overview of the City of Fresno Solar Permit process, highlighting key steps, requirements, and tips for a smooth experience.

Why Is a Solar Permit Necessary?

Solar permits are essential to ensure that your solar energy system meets safety and building code standards. The City of Fresno requires permits to:

Verify that installations adhere to local building and electrical codes.

Ensure that systems are safe for property owners, residents, and utility workers.

Facilitate grid connection and compliance with utility regulations.

Obtaining a solar permit is not just a bureaucratic step but a critical component of a successful and safe solar installation.

Steps to Obtain a Solar Permit in Fresno

Choose a Licensed Contractor Working with a licensed solar contractor simplifies the permitting process. Professionals are familiar with local regulations and can handle most of the paperwork on your behalf.

Design Your Solar System Before applying for a permit, you’ll need a complete design for your solar energy system. This includes:

Site plans showing panel placement.

Electrical diagrams.

Structural assessments for roof-mounted systems.

Prepare Your Application The City of Fresno Solar Permit requires specific documents to process your solar permit application. These typically include:

Completed application form.

System design and specifications.

Contractor’s license information.

Proof of compliance with California’s Title 24 energy standards.

Submit Your Application Applications can be submitted through the City of Fresno’s online permitting portal or in person at the local Building and Safety Division office. Ensure all required documents are included to avoid delays.

Pay Permit Fees Solar permit fees in Fresno are determined based on system size and complexity. The City’s fee schedule provides a breakdown of costs. Be prepared to pay at the time of submission.

Application Review The Building and Safety Division reviews your application to ensure compliance with local and state regulations. This process may take a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of your project and the current workload.

Schedule Inspections After your permit is approved and your solar system is installed, you’ll need to schedule inspections. Inspectors will verify that:

The installation matches the approved plans.

Electrical connections are safe and compliant.

Structural components are secure.

Final Approval and Grid Connection Once your system passes inspection, you’ll receive final approval. You can then coordinate with your utility provider to connect your system to the grid and start generating solar power.

Key Requirements and Considerations

Net Metering: Fresno residents can benefit from California’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) program, which credits solar users for excess energy sent back to the grid. Ensure your system complies with NEM requirements.

Building and Electrical Codes: Adherence to the California Building Standards Code (Title 24) and National Electrical Code (NEC) is mandatory.

Zoning Regulations: Check local zoning laws to confirm that solar installations are allowed in your area and comply with setback requirements.

HOA Restrictions: If your property is part of a homeowners’ association, review HOA guidelines for solar installations to avoid conflicts.

Tips for a Smooth Solar Permit Process

Work with Experienced Professionals Hiring a reputable solar contractor with experience in Fresno’s permitting process can save you time and effort.

Double-Check Your Application Incomplete applications are a common cause of delays. Ensure all required documents are accurate and complete before submission.

Stay Informed About Regulations Solar permitting regulations can change. Keep up to date with Fresno’s Building and Safety Division for the latest requirements.

Plan Ahead Allow ample time for the permitting process, especially during peak construction seasons when review times may be longer.

Benefits of Going Solar in Fresno

Energy Savings Solar energy systems can significantly reduce your electricity bills by offsetting your energy consumption.

Environmental Impact By switching to solar power, you contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Increased Property Value Solar installations can boost property values, making your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Incentives and Rebates Fresno residents can take advantage of state and federal incentives, including the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which offers a significant tax break for solar installations.

Challenges to Consider

Initial Costs: While solar systems offer long-term savings, the upfront costs can be substantial. Financing options and incentives can help mitigate this.

Permitting Delays: Delays in the permitting process can impact your installation timeline. Working with experienced professionals can minimize this risk.

Maintenance Requirements: Solar systems require periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance, including cleaning panels and monitoring system components.

Conclusion

The City of Fresno’s solar permit process is a vital step in adopting solar energy. By understanding the requirements and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the process efficiently and begin reaping the benefits of solar power. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce energy costs or a business aiming to enhance sustainability, solar energy is a smart investment in Fresno’s sunny future.

[sunaleisocial]

NASA’s New Deep Space Network Antenna Has Its Crowning Moment - NASA

New Post has been published on https://sunalei.org/news/nasas-new-deep-space-network-antenna-has-its-crowning-moment-nasa-2/

NASA’s New Deep Space Network Antenna Has Its Crowning Moment - NASA

Deep Space Station 23’s 133-ton reflector dish was recently installed, marking a key step in strengthening NASA’s Deep Space Network.

NASA’s Deep Space Network, an array of giant radio antennas, allows agency missions to track, send commands to, and receive scientific data from spacecraft venturing to the Moon and beyond. NASA is adding a new antenna, bringing the total to 15, to support increased demand for the world’s largest and most sensitive radio frequency telecommunication system.

Installation of the latest antenna took place on Dec. 18, when teams at NASA’s Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex near Barstow, California, installed the metal reflector framework for Deep Space Station 23, a multifrequency beam-waveguide antenna. When operational in 2026, Deep Space Station 23 will receive transmissions from missions such as Perseverance, Psyche, Europa Clipper, Voyager 1, and a growing fleet of future human and robotic spacecraft in deep space.

“This addition to the Deep Space Network represents a crucial communication upgrade for the agency,” said Kevin Coggins, deputy associate administrator of NASA’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) program. “The communications infrastructure has been in continuous operation since its creation in 1963, and with this upgrade we are ensuring NASA is ready to support the growing number of missions exploring the Moon, Mars, and beyond.”

[embedded content]

This time-lapse video shows the entire day of construction activities for the Deep Space Station 23 antenna at the NASA Deep Space Network’s Goldstone Space Communications Complex near Barstow, California, on Dec. 18. NASA/JPL-Caltech

Construction of the new antenna has been under way for more than four years, and during the installation, teams used a crawler crane to lower the 133-ton metal skeleton of the 112-foot-wide (34-meter-wide) parabolic reflector before it was bolted to a 65-foot-high (20-meter-high) alidade, a platform above the antenna’s pedestal that will steer the reflector during operations.

“One of the biggest challenges facing us during the lift was to ensure that 40 bolt-holes were perfectly aligned between the structure and alidade,” said Germaine Aziz, systems engineer, Deep Space Network Aperture Enhancement Program of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “This required a meticulous emphasis on alignment prior to the lift to guarantee everything went smoothly on the day.”

Following the main lift, engineers carried out a lighter lift to place a quadripod, a four-legged support structure weighing 16 1/2 tons, onto the center of the upward-facing reflector. The quadripod features a curved subreflector that will direct radio frequency signals from deep space that bounce off the main reflector into the antenna’s pedestal, where the antenna’s receivers are housed.

Engineers will now work to fit panels onto the steel skeleton to create a curved surface to reflect radio frequency signals. Once complete, Deep Space Station 23 will be the fifth of six new beam-waveguide antennas to join the network, following Deep Space Station 53, which was added at the Deep Space Network’s Madrid complex in 2022.

“With the Deep Space Network, we are able to explore the Martian landscape with our rovers, see the James Webb Space Telescope’s stunning cosmic observations, and so much more,” said Laurie Leshin, director of JPL. “The network enables over 40 deep space missions, including the farthest human-made objects in the universe, Voyager 1 and 2. With upgrades like these, the network will continue to support humanity’s exploration of our solar system and beyond, enabling groundbreaking science and discovery far into the future.”

NASA’s Deep Space Network is managed by JPL, with the oversight of NASA’s SCaN Program. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on the Deep Space Network and Near Space Network, including supporting astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitoring Earth’s weather and the effects of climate change, supporting lunar exploration, and uncovering the solar system and beyond. 

For more information about the Deep Space Network, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/communicating-with-missions/dsn

News Media Contact

Ian J. O’Neill Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif. 818-354-2649 ian.j.oneill@jpl.nasa.gov

2024-179

[danmoscatiello]

The Economics of Renewable Energy: What Homeowners Need to Know

As homeowners become more interested in sustainable energy solutions, the financial aspects of renewable energy are at the forefront of the decision-making process. I’ve seen firsthand how questions around costs, savings, and incentives shape the choices homeowners make about renewable energy. Renewable energy investments, particularly for solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems, offer both financial and environmental benefits—but the initial costs, long-term savings, and available financing options all play a role. Here, I’ll walk you through what homeowners need to consider to make informed choices about renewable energy.

Understanding Initial Investment Costs

The upfront cost is often the biggest hurdle for homeowners when it comes to renewable energy. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which are commonly installed on residential rooftops, can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000 for a typical home setup. Wind turbines and geothermal systems may come with even higher initial costs due to their installation complexities and the specialized equipment required. While these numbers may seem daunting, it’s essential to keep in mind that these investments are designed to pay off over time.

From my experience, I recommend homeowners get multiple quotes from reputable installers, as costs can vary significantly depending on factors like system size, equipment quality, and installer expertise. Choosing a reputable installer ensures the system is optimized for performance, which impacts long-term savings. While the initial expense may feel like a barrier, renewable energy systems are structured to offset that cost with future savings.

Calculating Long-Term Savings

The long-term savings that come from investing in renewable energy are often the most compelling reason to consider this option. By generating your own electricity, you’re less reliant on utility providers and their fluctuating rates, which means your monthly bills can drop significantly. Many homeowners with solar panels, for example, can reduce their electric bills by 50-100%, depending on energy consumption and system size.

The exact savings, however, depend on several factors. Location is a big one, as regions with more sunlight or higher wind availability will yield more power from solar panels or wind turbines. Another factor is local utility rates; if energy costs are high in your area, your savings will be greater. Over time, these savings can accumulate and help offset the initial investment, making renewable energy systems financially attractive. I find that, for most homeowners, the payback period for solar panels is around 7 to 10 years, after which you’re essentially generating free electricity.

Taking Advantage of Incentives and Tax Credits

One of the best ways to reduce the upfront cost of renewable energy installations is by taking advantage of available incentives and tax credits. In the United States, for example, the federal Residential Clean Energy Credit provides a 30% tax credit for systems installed between 2022 and 2032. This can make a significant dent in the overall cost, and many states also offer additional incentives. In California, for instance, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for energy storage systems, which can complement a solar setup by storing excess energy for later use.

These incentives are not only available in the U.S.; other countries offer similar programs to encourage homeowners to transition to renewable energy. The key here is to check both federal and local incentives, as these programs can change annually or be dependent on budget availability. Consulting with a local energy advisor or installer can help identify which incentives are applicable and how to maximize them.

Exploring Financing Options

The initial cost of renewable energy systems can be a barrier for some homeowners, but there are several financing options to make these systems more accessible. Here are a few common options:

Loans: Many banks and credit unions offer loans specifically for renewable energy installations. These loans often come with lower interest rates and longer repayment terms, making them a practical choice for those looking to spread the cost over time.

Leases: Some companies offer leasing options, where you pay a monthly fee to use the renewable energy system without owning it outright. Leasing is a way to benefit from renewable energy with little to no upfront cost, though you won’t own the system at the end of the lease term.

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): In a PPA arrangement, a third-party company installs and maintains the system on your property, and you agree to buy the energy it generates at a set rate. This can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy without the responsibility of ownership.

Each of these options has its advantages and potential drawbacks, so it’s important to consider what best aligns with your financial situation and energy goals. I always recommend carefully reviewing the terms, especially with leases and PPAs, to ensure there are no unexpected fees or limitations on the system’s use.

Maintenance and Operational Costs

Renewable energy systems generally have lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional energy systems. Solar panels, for example, are relatively low-maintenance and typically only require periodic cleaning and inspection to ensure optimal performance. Wind turbines and geothermal systems may have higher maintenance needs due to their mechanical components, but these systems are built to withstand regular use and the occasional check-up.

When planning for renewable energy, it’s important to factor in potential maintenance costs over the system’s lifespan. Solar panels, for example, are designed to last 25 to 30 years, but inverters may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, which could add an additional expense. By factoring in these maintenance needs, homeowners can better estimate the total cost of ownership for their renewable energy system.

Impact on Property Value

Renewable energy systems can increase the value of your property. Homes with solar panels, for instance, often sell at a premium compared to those without, as they offer the new owner the benefit of reduced or eliminated electricity bills. Buyers are increasingly valuing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly homes, which is why installing a renewable energy system can be a smart investment beyond just monthly savings.

It’s worth noting that the increase in property value varies depending on location, the age and quality of the system, and local demand for renewable energy. However, in many cases, this added value makes the investment more attractive, as it can provide both immediate energy savings and long-term financial benefits. From what I’ve seen, energy-efficient homes tend to appeal to a growing market of environmentally conscious buyers.

Environmental and Social Benefits

While financial considerations are important, it’s also worth recognizing the environmental benefits of renewable energy. By generating your own clean energy, you’re contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which is essential in the fight against climate change. Renewable energy systems also promote energy independence by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which is beneficial for both the environment and long-term energy security.

Additionally, choosing renewable energy can have a positive ripple effect within communities, inspiring others to adopt similar systems. As more households shift toward renewable energy, the overall demand for fossil fuels decreases, supporting a broader transition to a sustainable energy economy. While these environmental and social benefits might not be directly monetary, they add a significant value to the decision to invest in renewable energy.

Key Points on Renewable Energy Economics for Homeowners

Initial costs vary; getting multiple quotes is beneficial.

Long-term savings on utility bills can offset upfront expenses.

Federal and state incentives reduce costs.

Maintenance is low but should be budgeted.

Renewable energy can increase property value and reduce emissions.

In Conclusion

Renewable energy offers homeowners a way to reduce utility costs, increase property value, and contribute to a cleaner environment. While the initial investment may feel daunting, the combination of long-term savings, incentives, and increased property value often makes it a worthwhile consideration. Renewable energy systems also provide an opportunity for homeowners to support a sustainable future by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy independence. In the end, careful research and consultation with reputable installers can help you make the most of renewable energy options, ensuring a solution that aligns with both your financial goals and environmental values.