In today’s post, I’d like to shed light on the insights shared during the recent RE+ Southeast conference that took place in Atlanta. This regional renewable energy conference pulled together great minds from the solar industry sharing their thoughts on the booming growth of solar companies and the increased deployment of solar panels for homes.
In Q4 of 2023, nationwide solar installations reached a record 13 GW, showing an unprecedented rise in solar consumption. With growing power demand and the increased importance of decarbonization, we are witnessing a shift towards a solar-dominated energy system.
For the Southeast, traditionally not a leader in renewable investments, there’s considerable growth forecasted in solar and energy storage. Let’s examine the state-by-state insights from the conference.
In Virginia, the solar sector is flying high thanks to the state’s 2021 Clean Economy Act. The Act mandates a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) by 2045, requiring a 75% procurement of renewable energy credits (REC) from in-state resources by 2025. These factors make Virginia an upcoming hotspot for installing a solar array for your home.
Georgia sits seventh in the country for its installed solar capacity, with about 6% of its electricity coming from solar. With multiple RFP filed and more than 5,000 people employed in its solar industry, this state holds a strong position in the solar market.
Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama – the Gulf region – are catching up with the rest of the country in terms of solar adoption. However, a significant bottleneck exists due to the number of projects awaiting approval in regional grid operators’ interconnection queues.
North Carolina, ranking fourth nationally with about 4.8 GW installed solar capacity, and South Carolina, sitting 16th with roughly 2.5 GW installed, show lawmakers’ favorable attitude towards solar. With well-established net metering programs, these states provide the perfect ground for setting up a solar array for your home.
Additionally, Tennessee Valley Authority has committed to approximately 2.4 GW of solar installations. Half of the projects in its grid interconnection queue now represent solar, signifying Tennessee’s transition towards this renewable source.
In conclusion, there’s an undeniable shift towards solar power across the states. Regardless of the current state of solar adoption, all states are increasing their dependency on solar. Therefore, it’s an excellent time to consider investing in solar companies or installing solar panels in your home if you haven’t done so already.
In my upcoming posts, we will continue to explore more about the United States’ unfolding solar narrative, examining how these changes could influence your move towards the renewable and sustainable solar power technology. Stay tuned!
Remember, a shift towards sustainable solar energy is not just an investment in your future, but also a step towards preserving the planet for the generations to come. Consider setting up your solar array for home today!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/04/22/solar-market-update-southeast-u-s/
