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Why Picking an Established and Credible Solar Installer Matters

December 23, 2021 | 129 views

Why Picking an Established and Credible Solar Installer Matters
With the popularity of solar increasing across the country, the number of solar installers has been multiplying. Unfortunately, many fly-by-night companies with minimal installation experience or larger national firms with little market history are trying to capitalize on the industry’s growth. In addition, the sheer volume of installation partners that consumers have to choose from can result in a great deal of buyer confusion.

More choices, more issues

As the number of solar installers has gone up, so have complaints and issues related to providers and their service. Recently, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry reached terms with Empire Solar Group LLC’s trustees, a national solar installer that went bankrupt earlier this year, leaving 45 homeowners in Minnesota with projects in various levels of incompletion. Unfortunately, they’re not alone, as many other consumers have also fallen into precarious situations after companies using high-pressure sales tactics have been unable to deliver on the work. Michael Allen, CEO of All Energy Solar, says, “He’s angered that companies go out of business and face no fines.” Allen and other established industry leaders have done their best to help out customers caught in the middle of an installer’s bankruptcy issues, but there is only so much they can do. 

What protections do consumers have?

In some cases, states have put into place protections for consumers; for example, in Minnesota, consumers stranded with uncompleted projects can get access to the state’s Contractor Recovery Fund, which receives money from licensing fees to help offset these costs. But that is of little comfort for those trying to determine what partner to choose for their project.

The best bet

When picking a solar installation partner, your best bet is to avoid those with high-pressure sales tactics, “too-good-to-be-true” pricing, or ones with little to no installation experience. Don’t simply trust the sales rep, do a little of your own research to see what other customers are saying. Looking for a record of successfully completed projects and businesses with state and national certifications can be another way to confirm credibility.

Spotlight

Palmetto

Palmetto is committed to the creation of a distributed, decentralized energy source we call The New Utility, which will replace the fossil-fueled, centralized energy model of The Old Utility. We are working towards this democratization of energy by putting power and control back in the hands of consumers and inspiring them to make environmentally responsible choices.

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SOLAR+STORAGE,STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

How Does Employing Energy Management Systems Helps Businesses?

Article | September 17, 2022

While most businesses presently strive to achieve environmentally friendly operations and lower their carbon footprints, this argument might not sway all businesses or company executives. While using renewable energy sources or energy management systems has clear environmental benefits, businesses that want to improve their operations and decrease overhead expenses should also consider such technologies. A steady and high-quality power supply is required for the smooth running of any kind of industry. Energy management systems (EMS) are used by a variety of industries to provide a consistent and dependable supply of energy. Energy Management Systems: Advantages for a Business Businesses and industries that use energy management solutions often achieve considerably bigger savings than those that do not use such systems. EMS examines all of the company's processes and enhances them for energy savings. The savings realized by the usage of energy management systems have a direct influence on the bottom line. Some of the most significant benefits of energy management systems are listed below. Improved Brand Image Using energy management systems result in lower power usage and, as a consequence, more environmentally friendly operations. Process optimization is recognized by business clients, customers, and suppliers because it shows excellence in planning and management. Better Productivity and Competitive Edge Reducing energy consumption via process optimization and effective load planning not only increases the overall productivity of industrial operations but also helps businesses to catch up with their competitors through continual process development. Cost-Reduction Energy management systems can ensure at least a 20% decrease in energy bills. System administrators can save up to 10% of their total energy expenditures with modest investments and no upfront costs. Supervisors can save up to one-third of their initial overhead expenses by using energy management solutions in a planned and methodical manner. Closing Lines An energy management system can help any organization save money on energy bills. There are many different energy management systems on the market, so make sure you choose one that is the right size for your business. If you're unclear about which system to buy, a good energy monitoring system can help you assess your performance and point you in the correct direction for process improvement.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

The Role of AI Technology in the Renewable Energy Sector

Article | May 27, 2021

Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are two of the most commonly used commercial phrases these days. As a result, companies across sectors are searching for methods to include them in order to optimize and automate their key operations. The energy sector is no exception! Indeed, throughout the years, renewable energy industries (wind, solar, hydro, nuclear) have substantially gained from the potential of machine learning. They were able to reduce their expenses, make better projections, and raise the rate of return on their portfolio. And this tendency is just going to gain momentum. If your company is in the energy industry or utilizes a lot of power, machine learning and AI can help you improve your business performance. But how precisely? Let's get started. Ways in Which AI and Machine Learning are Changing Energy Sector There are a few methods that machine learning and AI can be applied to positively improve the energy industry. Here are a few popular applications currently under development. Predictive Maintenance AI helps match energy output with demand and ensure power grid stability and resilience.In 2003, a low-hanging high-voltage electricity line hit an overgrown tree in Ohio, causing a widespread blackout. There was no power system alarm and no sign of the incident. The electric company didn't notice until three additional power lines failed. This carelessness ultimately brought down the whole grid. The 50 million-person blackout lasted two days. Eleven individuals died, and $6 billion was lost. Predictive maintenance can be implemented using machine learning and IoT Sensors gather operational time series data from electricity lines, equipment, and stations (data accompanied by a timestamp). Machine learning algorithms can then forecast when a component will fail (or n-steps). It can also anticipate machinery's remaining usable life or future breakdown. These algorithms detect machine failure, eliminate blackouts or downtimes, improve maintenance procedures, and reduce maintenance expenses. Grid Management Grid management is a promising AI application in energy. Complex networks distribute electricity to users (also known as the power grid). Generation and demand must always match in the electrical system. Other issues, like blackouts and system breakdowns, can occur. Despite being ancient, pumped hydroelectric storage is the most common way to store energy. It operates by moving water upwards and letting it fall into turbines. Renewable energy makes predicting the grid's power generation challenging. After all, it is affected by a variety of things, like sunlight and wind. Demand Response Large demand shifts can be expensive for nations that depend on renewable energy. As nations migrate to green energy, it's harder to adapt to demand fluctuations. Germany plans to use 80% renewable energy by 2050. Countries such as Germany will encounter two major challenges Demand fluctuations: On some days or times of the year, power consumption soars (on Christmas, for example) Weather volatility: Without wind or clear skies, it might be hard to meet electrical demand. In both circumstances, more stations or fossil fuel-powered facilities must meet demand Solving demand response issues Many nations are partnering with businesses to examine weather forecasts, power demand, etc. Germany's EWeLiNE project forecasts wind and solar energy at a specific moment. This enables the government to use non-renewable energy to meet additional power demand. They utilize enormous historical data sets to train machine learning algorithms, as well as data from wind turbines or solar panels, to properly balance supply and demand. Closing Lines AI increases the potential of humans. Several renewable energy producers are investing in artificial intelligence to boost their businesses.There are numerous uses of artificial intelligence in renewable energy. The fundamental purpose of AI integrated systems is to reduce forecasting issues and incorporate renewable energy into the central energy grid as effectively as possible. AI can also assist renewable energy providers in developing successful plans and policies based on present energy consumption and demand.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

AI in the Renewable Energy Sector: Investment Perspective

Article | April 29, 2021

As the worldwide use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy market is expected to reach $7.78 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 22.49% from 2019 to 2024, it is easy to see why it's a popular topic on the minds of many leading brands in the energy sector, as well as investors looking to reap the future perks that AI could bring to the energy industry. According to BIS Research, North America is expected to be the largest market for AI in energy through 2024. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to rise rapidly over the same time due to the rising need for more decentralized power production. Investment Opportunities in AI-based Energy Industry: Economic Visibility AI's economic viability and progress in the energy business can be attributed to numerous factors, including: The desire to increase operational efficiency. Increased interest in energy efficiency. Decentralized electricity generation is being expanded. Battery storage solutions are gaining popularity. Since artificial intelligence has a wide range of applications, there are several investment opportunities in the energy industry. Upstream Oil and Gas Enhance efficiency and decrease downtime, which is critical for hydrocarbon companies owing to volatile oil prices and demand, to lessen the environmental implications of energy generation and consumption. AI Chatbots AI has the potential to enhance interactions between contact centers and consumers. Utilities that outsource to contact center providers can suffer significant fees. This is where AI, particularly when combined with natural language processing (NLP), can assist contact center operators by listening to conversations and automatically noting information in the appropriate apps, helping operators to make calls more reliable, effective, and satisfying to customers. Smart Homes and Cities AI integration benefits smart meters and smart energy management systems as well. Many residences and towns can utilize AI to collect real-time data and apply it in a number of ways to function more effectively and efficiently, enhancing sustainability while also making a living more comfortable and cities more accessible. Monitoring Trends in Energy Generation and Consumption Artificial intelligence is being utilized to assist energy companies and customers in recognizing and tracking patterns in energy generation and consumption. AI, for example, can predict the potential output of a certain wind or solar plant. Closing Lines Banking, finance, and trade are some of the suitable businesses that can profit. For example, AI and machine learning can be used in algorithmic trading, which involves utilizing computer programs to make trades in the energy business at speeds and frequencies that any human trader would consider inconceivable.

Read More
STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

Technologies Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy

Article | July 8, 2022

Introduction Renewable energy has transformed our planet. It's raised awareness of global warming and climate change. Both governments and ordinary people are seeking to move from fossil fuels to renewable energy because of this awareness. Technology's involvement in this revolution cannot be understated. Thought a few years ago that solar energy would power average houses in small communities. Thanks to the widespread manufacture of lithium-ion batteries, EVs will be the next big thing. Major Renewable Energy Technologies Transforming the Future Power-to-X Despite the name, this is not a conspiracy theory about global dominance. Modern technology converts electricity into synthetic fuels, thermal energy, and hydrogen. This breakthrough technology can minimize fossil fuel dependence by focusing on synthetic ones. It can also help with efficient storage solutions. Green Appliances and Machines Leading household appliance makers are launching solar-powered appliances. This is a wonderful start toward minimizing family power expenses. Many households have begun to invest in gadgets such as solar air conditioners. Distributed Generation Systems Several locations are experimenting with distributed generation. This reduces dependence on a centralized grid and simplifies transmission and distribution. It also reduces grid dependability and failures. Electrification Most European nations are actively electrifying to cut carbon emissions. This is not the same as a power supply. Rather, it implies developing assets and infrastructure that can shift and aid in the adoption of electricity. Providing public EV charging stations is a step towards electrification. Closing Lines Prominent private companies such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft have made significant commitments to renewable energy in recent years. While some governments are actively attempting to make the shift, others have yet to take environmental challenges such as global warming and climate change seriously. Technological breakthroughs are helping to make the transition to renewable energy greener, quicker, and more economical.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE,STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

Slashing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Business Perspective!

Article | September 17, 2022

While most businesses presently strive to achieve environmentally friendly operations and lower their carbon footprints, this argument might not sway all businesses or company executives. While using renewable energy sources or energy management systems has clear environmental benefits, businesses that want to improve their operations and decrease overhead expenses should also consider such technologies. A steady and high-quality power supply is required for the smooth running of any kind of industry. Energy management systems (EMS) are used by a variety of industries to provide a consistent and dependable supply of energy. Energy Management Systems: Advantages for a Business Businesses and industries that use energy management solutions often achieve considerably bigger savings than those that do not use such systems. EMS examines all of the company's processes and enhances them for energy savings. The savings realized by the usage of energy management systems have a direct influence on the bottom line. Some of the most significant benefits of energy management systems are listed below. Improved Brand Image Using energy management systems result in lower power usage and, as a consequence, more environmentally friendly operations. Process optimization is recognized by business clients, customers, and suppliers because it shows excellence in planning and management. Better Productivity and Competitive Edge Reducing energy consumption via process optimization and effective load planning not only increases the overall productivity of industrial operations but also helps businesses to catch up with their competitors through continual process development. Cost-Reduction Energy management systems can ensure at least a 20% decrease in energy bills. System administrators can save up to 10% of their total energy expenditures with modest investments and no upfront costs. Supervisors can save up to one-third of their initial overhead expenses by using energy management solutions in a planned and methodical manner. Closing Lines An energy management system can help any organization save money on energy bills. There are many different energy management systems on the market, so make sure you choose one that is the right size for your business. If you're unclear about which system to buy, a good energy monitoring system can help you assess your performance and point you in the correct direction for process improvement.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

Installation of a Solar System in 2021

Article | May 27, 2021

Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) are two of the most commonly used commercial phrases these days. As a result, companies across sectors are searching for methods to include them in order to optimize and automate their key operations. The energy sector is no exception! Indeed, throughout the years, renewable energy industries (wind, solar, hydro, nuclear) have substantially gained from the potential of machine learning. They were able to reduce their expenses, make better projections, and raise the rate of return on their portfolio. And this tendency is just going to gain momentum. If your company is in the energy industry or utilizes a lot of power, machine learning and AI can help you improve your business performance. But how precisely? Let's get started. Ways in Which AI and Machine Learning are Changing Energy Sector There are a few methods that machine learning and AI can be applied to positively improve the energy industry. Here are a few popular applications currently under development. Predictive Maintenance AI helps match energy output with demand and ensure power grid stability and resilience.In 2003, a low-hanging high-voltage electricity line hit an overgrown tree in Ohio, causing a widespread blackout. There was no power system alarm and no sign of the incident. The electric company didn't notice until three additional power lines failed. This carelessness ultimately brought down the whole grid. The 50 million-person blackout lasted two days. Eleven individuals died, and $6 billion was lost. Predictive maintenance can be implemented using machine learning and IoT Sensors gather operational time series data from electricity lines, equipment, and stations (data accompanied by a timestamp). Machine learning algorithms can then forecast when a component will fail (or n-steps). It can also anticipate machinery's remaining usable life or future breakdown. These algorithms detect machine failure, eliminate blackouts or downtimes, improve maintenance procedures, and reduce maintenance expenses. Grid Management Grid management is a promising AI application in energy. Complex networks distribute electricity to users (also known as the power grid). Generation and demand must always match in the electrical system. Other issues, like blackouts and system breakdowns, can occur. Despite being ancient, pumped hydroelectric storage is the most common way to store energy. It operates by moving water upwards and letting it fall into turbines. Renewable energy makes predicting the grid's power generation challenging. After all, it is affected by a variety of things, like sunlight and wind. Demand Response Large demand shifts can be expensive for nations that depend on renewable energy. As nations migrate to green energy, it's harder to adapt to demand fluctuations. Germany plans to use 80% renewable energy by 2050. Countries such as Germany will encounter two major challenges Demand fluctuations: On some days or times of the year, power consumption soars (on Christmas, for example) Weather volatility: Without wind or clear skies, it might be hard to meet electrical demand. In both circumstances, more stations or fossil fuel-powered facilities must meet demand Solving demand response issues Many nations are partnering with businesses to examine weather forecasts, power demand, etc. Germany's EWeLiNE project forecasts wind and solar energy at a specific moment. This enables the government to use non-renewable energy to meet additional power demand. They utilize enormous historical data sets to train machine learning algorithms, as well as data from wind turbines or solar panels, to properly balance supply and demand. Closing Lines AI increases the potential of humans. Several renewable energy producers are investing in artificial intelligence to boost their businesses.There are numerous uses of artificial intelligence in renewable energy. The fundamental purpose of AI integrated systems is to reduce forecasting issues and incorporate renewable energy into the central energy grid as effectively as possible. AI can also assist renewable energy providers in developing successful plans and policies based on present energy consumption and demand.

Read More
SOLAR+STORAGE

More Solar Ready To Help Power Pumping For SA Water

Article | April 29, 2021

As the worldwide use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy market is expected to reach $7.78 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 22.49% from 2019 to 2024, it is easy to see why it's a popular topic on the minds of many leading brands in the energy sector, as well as investors looking to reap the future perks that AI could bring to the energy industry. According to BIS Research, North America is expected to be the largest market for AI in energy through 2024. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to rise rapidly over the same time due to the rising need for more decentralized power production. Investment Opportunities in AI-based Energy Industry: Economic Visibility AI's economic viability and progress in the energy business can be attributed to numerous factors, including: The desire to increase operational efficiency. Increased interest in energy efficiency. Decentralized electricity generation is being expanded. Battery storage solutions are gaining popularity. Since artificial intelligence has a wide range of applications, there are several investment opportunities in the energy industry. Upstream Oil and Gas Enhance efficiency and decrease downtime, which is critical for hydrocarbon companies owing to volatile oil prices and demand, to lessen the environmental implications of energy generation and consumption. AI Chatbots AI has the potential to enhance interactions between contact centers and consumers. Utilities that outsource to contact center providers can suffer significant fees. This is where AI, particularly when combined with natural language processing (NLP), can assist contact center operators by listening to conversations and automatically noting information in the appropriate apps, helping operators to make calls more reliable, effective, and satisfying to customers. Smart Homes and Cities AI integration benefits smart meters and smart energy management systems as well. Many residences and towns can utilize AI to collect real-time data and apply it in a number of ways to function more effectively and efficiently, enhancing sustainability while also making a living more comfortable and cities more accessible. Monitoring Trends in Energy Generation and Consumption Artificial intelligence is being utilized to assist energy companies and customers in recognizing and tracking patterns in energy generation and consumption. AI, for example, can predict the potential output of a certain wind or solar plant. Closing Lines Banking, finance, and trade are some of the suitable businesses that can profit. For example, AI and machine learning can be used in algorithmic trading, which involves utilizing computer programs to make trades in the energy business at speeds and frequencies that any human trader would consider inconceivable.

Read More
STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES

Technologies Shaping the Future of Renewable Energy

Article | July 8, 2022

Introduction Renewable energy has transformed our planet. It's raised awareness of global warming and climate change. Both governments and ordinary people are seeking to move from fossil fuels to renewable energy because of this awareness. Technology's involvement in this revolution cannot be understated. Thought a few years ago that solar energy would power average houses in small communities. Thanks to the widespread manufacture of lithium-ion batteries, EVs will be the next big thing. Major Renewable Energy Technologies Transforming the Future Power-to-X Despite the name, this is not a conspiracy theory about global dominance. Modern technology converts electricity into synthetic fuels, thermal energy, and hydrogen. This breakthrough technology can minimize fossil fuel dependence by focusing on synthetic ones. It can also help with efficient storage solutions. Green Appliances and Machines Leading household appliance makers are launching solar-powered appliances. This is a wonderful start toward minimizing family power expenses. Many households have begun to invest in gadgets such as solar air conditioners. Distributed Generation Systems Several locations are experimenting with distributed generation. This reduces dependence on a centralized grid and simplifies transmission and distribution. It also reduces grid dependability and failures. Electrification Most European nations are actively electrifying to cut carbon emissions. This is not the same as a power supply. Rather, it implies developing assets and infrastructure that can shift and aid in the adoption of electricity. Providing public EV charging stations is a step towards electrification. Closing Lines Prominent private companies such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft have made significant commitments to renewable energy in recent years. While some governments are actively attempting to make the shift, others have yet to take environmental challenges such as global warming and climate change seriously. Technological breakthroughs are helping to make the transition to renewable energy greener, quicker, and more economical.

Read More
MORE ARTICLES

Spotlight

Palmetto

Palmetto is committed to the creation of a distributed, decentralized energy source we call The New Utility, which will replace the fossil-fueled, centralized energy model of The Old Utility. We are working towards this democratization of energy by putting power and control back in the hands of consumers and inspiring them to make environmentally responsible choices.

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SOLAR+STORAGE,ENERGY

Fractal Energy Storage Software Now Includes Ampt String Optimizers for Technoeconomic Modeling of Solar Power Plants

Ampt | September 17, 2022

Ampt, the world’s #1 DC optimizer company for large-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems, announced that its products have been integrated into the Energy Storage modeling software solution from Fractal, a leading energy storage and renewable energy consulting and engineering firm. Users of the Fractal Model software can now model their photovoltaic (PV) solar-plus-storage projects including Ampt String Optimizers to design lower cost and higher performing systems. Fractal’s energy storage software solution – the Fractal Model – is used globally by electric utilities, IPPs, developers, EPCs, and integrators to perform battery storage sizing, dispatch and financial analysis. The software consists of a technoeconomic modeling platform used during project design and development, due diligence and RFP evaluation to provide investment-grade performance and cost analysis and simulations. Following today’s announcement, users of Fractal software are now able to model systems with Ampt String Optimizers. Ampt String Optimizers are DC/DC converters that improve system performance and lower the cost of PV power plants and DC-coupled energy storage systems. Ampt’s innovative technology is used in a variety of PV solar applications with products ranging in power up to 70 kW that are used in system voltages up to 1500 VDC. With over 1 GW of optimizers in solar-plus-storage projects, Ampt powers some of the largest hybrid power plants in the world. “Fractal is committed to providing its customers with access to the most comprehensive modeling capabilities, We are pleased to include Ampt products in our software to expand the options available to our users when optimizing their PV and energy storage systems.” -Judy McElroy, CEO of Fractal Energy Storage Consultants Fractal Energy Storage Consultants provides technical design, financial analysis, procurement, buy and sell side due diligence, technoeconomic models, controls integration and owner’s engineer services for energy storage and hybrid projects. Fractal has provided consulting services including technical design and financial analysis to over 600 utility-scale projects and more than 6 GW of battery storage. “Fractal’s software provides investment-grade modeling capabilities to optimize the design and improve the economics of PV+storage power plants, Now developers can also use Fractal’s software to quantify the benefits of Ampt’s fixed-voltage DC architecture.” -Levent Gun, Ampt CEO Ampt is exhibiting at RE+ on September 20-22 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. Please visit us in booth 1252 to learn about our award-winning products including our new i50 String Optimizer which will be on display. Visitors to Ampt’s booth also can see a demonstration of Fractal’s energy storage modeling software. About Ampt Ampt delivers innovative power conversion and communication technology that are used to lower the cost and improve performance of new PV systems, repower existing systems, and enable lower cost DC-coupled storage. With installations and experience serving markets around the world, Ampt is the number one DC optimizer company for large-scale systems. The company is headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado and has sales and support locations in North America, Europe, and Japan as well as representation in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.ampt.com.

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SUSTAINABILITY,ENERGY

Sunnova Expands Energy as a Service Offerings to Commercial Businesses

Sunnova Energy | September 23, 2022

Sunnova Energy International Inc. ("Sunnova") (NYSE: NOVA), a leading U.S. Energy as a Service (EaaS) provider, announced that it is expanding its energy service offerings to the commercial solar market.Leveraging the Company’s extensive experience in residential solar, Sunnova is expanding into the commercial market to serve the commercial, industrial, agricultural, commercial real estate, non-profit, and public sectors to help business customers become more sustainable and resilient while also providing budget certainty in the face of rising utility rates. Entry into the commercial sector is supported by the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act, which is expected to increase deployment of commercial solar projects by 20% over the next five years, according to the SEIA/Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables U.S. Solar Market Insight report. With the expansion of Sunnova’s energy services into the underserved commercial market, businesses will be able to take control of their energy costs by transitioning to solar, gaining resilient backup power, and tapping into available revenue streams such as selling excess solar energy back to the grid or participating in local grid services. “Electricity usage can be one of the biggest and most unpredictable costs facing businesses, and unexpectedly losing power due to a utility outage can create additional expense and hardship,We see a significant growth opportunity in the commercial solar market that is a natural extension of our market-leading services on the residential side. We look forward to providing businesses with solutions that will reduce their energy costs and provide local energy generation, as well as insights and control. Our systems offer protection against utility power outages with integrated battery storage, and the ability to reduce carbon emissions. We have helped hundreds of thousands of homeowners across the country realize the benefits of solar and now we will be helping companies adapt to an ever-changing energy landscape by transforming into Sunnova Adaptive Businesses™.” -William J. (John) Berger, founder and CEO at Sunnova. With a total addressable market of approximately 145GW that is only 5% penetrated, according to Wood Mackenzie, Sunnova will be leveraging its network of dealers who have wanted to sell commercial solar, or who already do, to facilitate a rapid market entry. We are excited to enter this underserved sector of the market to help businesses manage their energy needs with a differentiated and innovative approach,” said Michael Grasso, EVP, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Sunnova. “Sunnova will offer businesses a complete suite of energy technologies, finance options, and services tailored to meet their specific energy needs, business goals, and local utility rate structures. This expansion of our service offerings will allow us to do for business customers what we have done for residential customers—provide a better energy service at a better price through our new adaptive business technology solutions and 25-year service guarantee, the Sunnova Protect® Business plan. Sunnova will also provide flexible financing options for systems starting at 50kW that are catered to the preferences and tax status of each business. About Sunnova Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE: NOVA) is leading U.S. Energy as a Service (EaaS) provider with customers across the U.S. and its territories. Sunnova's goal is to be the source of clean, affordable and reliable energy with a simple mission: to power energy independence so that homeowners have the freedom to live life uninterrupted®. For more information, please visit sunnova.com

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STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES,ENERGY

Taylor Farms Taps Bloom Energy, Ameresco and Concept Clean Energy to Take California Fresh Vegetable Production Facility Off the Grid

Bloom Energy | September 22, 2022

Taylor Farms, North America’s largest producer of healthy fresh foods, has partnered with Bloom Energy (NYSE: BE), Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC) and Concept Clean Energy to install a microgrid capable of taking one of their California food processing facilities completely off the traditional energy grid. The energy leaders plan to combine six megawatts (MW) of Bloom fuel cells, 2MW of solar power from Concept Clean Energy and a 2MW/4MWh battery into a microgrid that is designed to power the entire 450,000 sq. ft. facility in San Juan Bautista, California.Taylor Farms’ commitment to providing healthy fresh foods year-round to customers and consumers cannot be disrupted amid energy reliability challenges. This collaboration combines the strength of each technology – fuel cells’ ability to generate resilient, always-on power, daytime power generation from solar, and energy storage benefits from batteries – to fulfill the facility’s 24/7 power needs completely, independently, and cost-effectively. While microgrids are often implemented only to provide power to critical loads in the event of outages, Taylor Farms seeks to prove that companies can, with partners like Bloom Energy, Ameresco, and Concept Clean Energy, take control of all their energy needs and establish price and power predictability. “We are looking forward to the energy stability this will provide our San Juan Bautista, California facility,Fresh food reliability is essential for our customers and it’s more critical than ever to provide quality, fresh foods to North Americans.” -Bruce Taylor, Chairman and CEO, Taylor Farms. Per the California Independent System Operator, it is estimated that the state faces an energy capacity shortfall of 1,700MW, which could be as high as 5,000MW if California is hit with multiple extreme events at the same time, such as wildfires and heat waves. With the flexibility to leverage the right technology for the right application, companies can now avoid relying on strained power grids, as Bloom Energy and Ameresco aim to provide always-on power for Taylor Farms. Our partnership with Taylor Farms and Ameresco is a landmark demonstration of the capabilities that innovative, clean energy companies have to provide uninterrupted low-carbon power to large-scale facilities,” said Sharelynn Moore, EVP, Chief Business Development and Marketing Officer, Bloom Energy. “Our decade-long relationship with Taylor Farms is culminating in this leading application of what a microgrid can do – enabling America’s largest producer of packaged produce to maintain and improve the reliability of their power. This journey builds on Taylor Farms’ relationship with Bloom Energy and is intended to allow the produce distributor to explore disconnecting from the regional power grid amid energy price escalations and reliability challenges. “Ameresco is excited to partner with Bloom and Taylor Farms on a truly transformative project that demonstrates innovation in advanced energy technologies,We look forward to this project serving as a blueprint for others as the role for baseload, dispatchable alternative energy sources serve as the cornerstone for resiliency in microgrids.” -Ameresco EVP Michael Bakas. Working with Taylor Farms' leadership has inspired Concept Clean Energy to develop highly innovative and versatile solutions for solar canopies, rooftops and ground-mounted applications,” said Elliot Jaramillo, CEO, Clean Concept Energy. “We're enabling Taylor Farms to achieve energy independence and realize unprecedented economic returns Energy solutions, including fuel cells and solar, can be integrated at scale, to provide low-carbon energy, reliability, resiliency, and immunity to challenges facing current grid operations. At Taylor Farms, Bloom and its partners are paving the way for decarbonizing production, while showing how industries like agriculture, an important part of the California and national economies and the fifth largest source of California’s greenhouse gas emissions, can reach net-zero. Bloom Energy empowers businesses and communities to responsibly take charge of their energy. The company’s leading solid oxide platform for distributed generation of electricity and hydrogen is changing the future of energy. Fortune 100 companies around the world turn to Bloom Energy as a trusted partner to deliver lower carbon energy today and a net-zero future. For more information, visit www.bloomenergy.com. About Taylor Farms Taylor Farms is a leading North American producer of salads and healthy fresh foods with production facilities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Taylor Farms is grounded in a commitment to quality, assured supply, innovation, sustainability, and food safety. Taylor Farms is family owned and based in “The Salad Bowl of the World” Salinas, California. For more information, delicious recipes, and more visit www.taylorfarms.com and follow Taylor Farms on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. About Ameresco, Inc. Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC) is a leading cleantech integrator and renewable energy asset developer, owner and operator. Our comprehensive portfolio includes energy efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, asset sustainability and renewable energy solutions delivered to clients throughout North America and Europe. Ameresco’s sustainability services in support of clients’ pursuit of net-zero include upgrades to a facility’s energy infrastructure and the development, construction, and operation of distributed energy resources. Ameresco has successfully completed energy saving, environmentally responsible projects with federal, state and local governments, healthcare and educational institutions, housing authorities, and commercial and industrial customers. With its corporate headquarters in Framingham, Massachusetts, Ameresco has more than 1,000 employees providing local expertise in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. For more information, visit www.ameresco.com. About Concept Clean Energy Concept Clean Energy is a leader in the field of renewable energy, primarily focused on the agricultural sector. Our team has created several proprietary solutions designed to maximize solar generation while keeping valuable land in production. These solutions allow heavy energy users, such as Taylor Farms, to produce large amounts of reliable clean power onsite, protect critical operations and ultimately achieve energy independence. www.ConceptCleanEnergy.com

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SOLAR+STORAGE,ENERGY

Fractal Energy Storage Software Now Includes Ampt String Optimizers for Technoeconomic Modeling of Solar Power Plants

Ampt | September 17, 2022

Ampt, the world’s #1 DC optimizer company for large-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems, announced that its products have been integrated into the Energy Storage modeling software solution from Fractal, a leading energy storage and renewable energy consulting and engineering firm. Users of the Fractal Model software can now model their photovoltaic (PV) solar-plus-storage projects including Ampt String Optimizers to design lower cost and higher performing systems. Fractal’s energy storage software solution – the Fractal Model – is used globally by electric utilities, IPPs, developers, EPCs, and integrators to perform battery storage sizing, dispatch and financial analysis. The software consists of a technoeconomic modeling platform used during project design and development, due diligence and RFP evaluation to provide investment-grade performance and cost analysis and simulations. Following today’s announcement, users of Fractal software are now able to model systems with Ampt String Optimizers. Ampt String Optimizers are DC/DC converters that improve system performance and lower the cost of PV power plants and DC-coupled energy storage systems. Ampt’s innovative technology is used in a variety of PV solar applications with products ranging in power up to 70 kW that are used in system voltages up to 1500 VDC. With over 1 GW of optimizers in solar-plus-storage projects, Ampt powers some of the largest hybrid power plants in the world. “Fractal is committed to providing its customers with access to the most comprehensive modeling capabilities, We are pleased to include Ampt products in our software to expand the options available to our users when optimizing their PV and energy storage systems.” -Judy McElroy, CEO of Fractal Energy Storage Consultants Fractal Energy Storage Consultants provides technical design, financial analysis, procurement, buy and sell side due diligence, technoeconomic models, controls integration and owner’s engineer services for energy storage and hybrid projects. Fractal has provided consulting services including technical design and financial analysis to over 600 utility-scale projects and more than 6 GW of battery storage. “Fractal’s software provides investment-grade modeling capabilities to optimize the design and improve the economics of PV+storage power plants, Now developers can also use Fractal’s software to quantify the benefits of Ampt’s fixed-voltage DC architecture.” -Levent Gun, Ampt CEO Ampt is exhibiting at RE+ on September 20-22 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. Please visit us in booth 1252 to learn about our award-winning products including our new i50 String Optimizer which will be on display. Visitors to Ampt’s booth also can see a demonstration of Fractal’s energy storage modeling software. About Ampt Ampt delivers innovative power conversion and communication technology that are used to lower the cost and improve performance of new PV systems, repower existing systems, and enable lower cost DC-coupled storage. With installations and experience serving markets around the world, Ampt is the number one DC optimizer company for large-scale systems. The company is headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado and has sales and support locations in North America, Europe, and Japan as well as representation in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.ampt.com.

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SUSTAINABILITY,ENERGY

Sunnova Expands Energy as a Service Offerings to Commercial Businesses

Sunnova Energy | September 23, 2022

Sunnova Energy International Inc. ("Sunnova") (NYSE: NOVA), a leading U.S. Energy as a Service (EaaS) provider, announced that it is expanding its energy service offerings to the commercial solar market.Leveraging the Company’s extensive experience in residential solar, Sunnova is expanding into the commercial market to serve the commercial, industrial, agricultural, commercial real estate, non-profit, and public sectors to help business customers become more sustainable and resilient while also providing budget certainty in the face of rising utility rates. Entry into the commercial sector is supported by the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act, which is expected to increase deployment of commercial solar projects by 20% over the next five years, according to the SEIA/Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables U.S. Solar Market Insight report. With the expansion of Sunnova’s energy services into the underserved commercial market, businesses will be able to take control of their energy costs by transitioning to solar, gaining resilient backup power, and tapping into available revenue streams such as selling excess solar energy back to the grid or participating in local grid services. “Electricity usage can be one of the biggest and most unpredictable costs facing businesses, and unexpectedly losing power due to a utility outage can create additional expense and hardship,We see a significant growth opportunity in the commercial solar market that is a natural extension of our market-leading services on the residential side. We look forward to providing businesses with solutions that will reduce their energy costs and provide local energy generation, as well as insights and control. Our systems offer protection against utility power outages with integrated battery storage, and the ability to reduce carbon emissions. We have helped hundreds of thousands of homeowners across the country realize the benefits of solar and now we will be helping companies adapt to an ever-changing energy landscape by transforming into Sunnova Adaptive Businesses™.” -William J. (John) Berger, founder and CEO at Sunnova. With a total addressable market of approximately 145GW that is only 5% penetrated, according to Wood Mackenzie, Sunnova will be leveraging its network of dealers who have wanted to sell commercial solar, or who already do, to facilitate a rapid market entry. We are excited to enter this underserved sector of the market to help businesses manage their energy needs with a differentiated and innovative approach,” said Michael Grasso, EVP, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Sunnova. “Sunnova will offer businesses a complete suite of energy technologies, finance options, and services tailored to meet their specific energy needs, business goals, and local utility rate structures. This expansion of our service offerings will allow us to do for business customers what we have done for residential customers—provide a better energy service at a better price through our new adaptive business technology solutions and 25-year service guarantee, the Sunnova Protect® Business plan. Sunnova will also provide flexible financing options for systems starting at 50kW that are catered to the preferences and tax status of each business. About Sunnova Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE: NOVA) is leading U.S. Energy as a Service (EaaS) provider with customers across the U.S. and its territories. Sunnova's goal is to be the source of clean, affordable and reliable energy with a simple mission: to power energy independence so that homeowners have the freedom to live life uninterrupted®. For more information, please visit sunnova.com

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STRATEGY AND BEST PRACTICES,ENERGY

Taylor Farms Taps Bloom Energy, Ameresco and Concept Clean Energy to Take California Fresh Vegetable Production Facility Off the Grid

Bloom Energy | September 22, 2022

Taylor Farms, North America’s largest producer of healthy fresh foods, has partnered with Bloom Energy (NYSE: BE), Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC) and Concept Clean Energy to install a microgrid capable of taking one of their California food processing facilities completely off the traditional energy grid. The energy leaders plan to combine six megawatts (MW) of Bloom fuel cells, 2MW of solar power from Concept Clean Energy and a 2MW/4MWh battery into a microgrid that is designed to power the entire 450,000 sq. ft. facility in San Juan Bautista, California.Taylor Farms’ commitment to providing healthy fresh foods year-round to customers and consumers cannot be disrupted amid energy reliability challenges. This collaboration combines the strength of each technology – fuel cells’ ability to generate resilient, always-on power, daytime power generation from solar, and energy storage benefits from batteries – to fulfill the facility’s 24/7 power needs completely, independently, and cost-effectively. While microgrids are often implemented only to provide power to critical loads in the event of outages, Taylor Farms seeks to prove that companies can, with partners like Bloom Energy, Ameresco, and Concept Clean Energy, take control of all their energy needs and establish price and power predictability. “We are looking forward to the energy stability this will provide our San Juan Bautista, California facility,Fresh food reliability is essential for our customers and it’s more critical than ever to provide quality, fresh foods to North Americans.” -Bruce Taylor, Chairman and CEO, Taylor Farms. Per the California Independent System Operator, it is estimated that the state faces an energy capacity shortfall of 1,700MW, which could be as high as 5,000MW if California is hit with multiple extreme events at the same time, such as wildfires and heat waves. With the flexibility to leverage the right technology for the right application, companies can now avoid relying on strained power grids, as Bloom Energy and Ameresco aim to provide always-on power for Taylor Farms. Our partnership with Taylor Farms and Ameresco is a landmark demonstration of the capabilities that innovative, clean energy companies have to provide uninterrupted low-carbon power to large-scale facilities,” said Sharelynn Moore, EVP, Chief Business Development and Marketing Officer, Bloom Energy. “Our decade-long relationship with Taylor Farms is culminating in this leading application of what a microgrid can do – enabling America’s largest producer of packaged produce to maintain and improve the reliability of their power. This journey builds on Taylor Farms’ relationship with Bloom Energy and is intended to allow the produce distributor to explore disconnecting from the regional power grid amid energy price escalations and reliability challenges. “Ameresco is excited to partner with Bloom and Taylor Farms on a truly transformative project that demonstrates innovation in advanced energy technologies,We look forward to this project serving as a blueprint for others as the role for baseload, dispatchable alternative energy sources serve as the cornerstone for resiliency in microgrids.” -Ameresco EVP Michael Bakas. Working with Taylor Farms' leadership has inspired Concept Clean Energy to develop highly innovative and versatile solutions for solar canopies, rooftops and ground-mounted applications,” said Elliot Jaramillo, CEO, Clean Concept Energy. “We're enabling Taylor Farms to achieve energy independence and realize unprecedented economic returns Energy solutions, including fuel cells and solar, can be integrated at scale, to provide low-carbon energy, reliability, resiliency, and immunity to challenges facing current grid operations. At Taylor Farms, Bloom and its partners are paving the way for decarbonizing production, while showing how industries like agriculture, an important part of the California and national economies and the fifth largest source of California’s greenhouse gas emissions, can reach net-zero. Bloom Energy empowers businesses and communities to responsibly take charge of their energy. The company’s leading solid oxide platform for distributed generation of electricity and hydrogen is changing the future of energy. Fortune 100 companies around the world turn to Bloom Energy as a trusted partner to deliver lower carbon energy today and a net-zero future. For more information, visit www.bloomenergy.com. About Taylor Farms Taylor Farms is a leading North American producer of salads and healthy fresh foods with production facilities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Taylor Farms is grounded in a commitment to quality, assured supply, innovation, sustainability, and food safety. Taylor Farms is family owned and based in “The Salad Bowl of the World” Salinas, California. For more information, delicious recipes, and more visit www.taylorfarms.com and follow Taylor Farms on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. About Ameresco, Inc. Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC) is a leading cleantech integrator and renewable energy asset developer, owner and operator. Our comprehensive portfolio includes energy efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, asset sustainability and renewable energy solutions delivered to clients throughout North America and Europe. Ameresco’s sustainability services in support of clients’ pursuit of net-zero include upgrades to a facility’s energy infrastructure and the development, construction, and operation of distributed energy resources. Ameresco has successfully completed energy saving, environmentally responsible projects with federal, state and local governments, healthcare and educational institutions, housing authorities, and commercial and industrial customers. With its corporate headquarters in Framingham, Massachusetts, Ameresco has more than 1,000 employees providing local expertise in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. For more information, visit www.ameresco.com. About Concept Clean Energy Concept Clean Energy is a leader in the field of renewable energy, primarily focused on the agricultural sector. Our team has created several proprietary solutions designed to maximize solar generation while keeping valuable land in production. These solutions allow heavy energy users, such as Taylor Farms, to produce large amounts of reliable clean power onsite, protect critical operations and ultimately achieve energy independence. www.ConceptCleanEnergy.com

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