Focus
California PUC streamlines transmission permitting process
Utility Dive – February 4
The California Public Utilities Commission on January 30 streamlined its transmission permitting requirements as part of a broader effort to meet the state’s clean energy goals. Among the changes, the CPUC now requires project developers to meet with commission staff before filing a permit application to help the review process run more smoothly, according to the agency. The revised rules also give transmission developers a chance to submit a draft version of California Environmental Quality Act documents instead of an environmental assessment to help speed permit reviews.
News
U.S. solar module manufacturing capacity tops 50 GW – SEIA
Renewables Now – February 4
The U.S. has exceeded 50 GW of domestic solar module production capacity and now ranks as the third largest module producer in the world, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). These factories have enough capacity to meet the entire U.S. demand for solar, the association noted.
NYPA trustees approves strategic plan for new renewable energy generation in New York
Renewable Energy Magazine – January 31
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees has approved its first strategic plan for expanding renewable energy resources in New York State to advance Governor Kathy Hochul’s climate agenda. The NYPA Renewables Strategic Plan includes details on 37 projects in every region of the state that represent a combined potential capacity of more than 3 GW, enough electricity to power between 2.5 and 3 million households.
Power-boosting project for U.S. grid to miss July deadline
Reuters – January 31
U.S. grid operators are asking regulators for more time to meet a federal order to upgrade existing transmission lines with equipment that can boost their capacity up to 40%, according to a Reuters review of regulatory documents. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in late 2021 had ordered all six major regional grid operators outside of Texas to establish systems that regularly update the capacity ratings on transmission lines, based on weather conditions, by a deadline of July 2025.
Projects
Arizona Public Service signs PPA for 300 MW solar + storage project
Solar Power World – February 4
BrightNight and Cordelio Power announced a new power purchase agreement with Arizona Public Service (APS), the largest electricity provider in Arizona. Under the agreement, APS will purchase energy from BrightNight and Cordelio’s Pioneer Clean Energy Center, a 300 MW solar and 1,200 MWh battery energy storage facility located in Yuma County.
Lightsource bp brings 288 MW solar portfolio in Texas online
Power Magazine – February 1
Lightsource bp announced two solar power projects in Texas with a combined 288 MW of generation capacity are now online. The company said its 163 MW Starr Solar project in Starr County, along with the 125 MW Second Division Solar installation in Brazoria County, represent a $348 million investment.
New Jersey cancels fourth offshore wind solicitation
reNews – February 3
New Jersey has scrapped its fourth solicitation for offshore wind capacity. The state’s Board of Public Utilities said that while there were three initial bidders for the 1.2 GW to 4 GW solicitation, Corio-Total-Rise joint venture Attentive Energy and RWE-National Grid venture Community Offshore Wind have since pulled out, leaving only Atlantic Shores to submit a best and final offer.
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