The importance of the private and public sectors in clean energy implementation became a talking point this week when Tesla announced the installation of a battery storage system in California. Pundits are questioning whether the best way to promote sustainable energy is through government programs or  creation of market-competitive products. Massachusetts also amplified its commitment to clean energy this week through proposed incentive programs and grants. Finally, cost effective innovations and job creation are increasing the use of renewable energies in the developing world.

What news have you been reading this week? Share with us @GreentownLabs!

Forbes- On Renewable Energy Technology, I’ll Wager on Bill Gates over Elon Musk

• Government engagement is crucial to fostering clean energy use, but the private sector must also be involved. While Elon Musk has mostly focused on working with governments and using subsidies, Bill Gates has tried to develop technologies that will be a force in the market. While there is disagreement on which of these strategies is most effective, the consensus is that both need to be utilized. What do you think?

“Research on new technologies should be, and has been, accelerated, but the myth that a technology or fuel which is seriously inferior in cost and performance will be transformed into a game-changing, mass market product by subsidies that encourage premature deployment needs to be abandoned”

The New York Times- Tesla Gives the California Power Grid a Battery Boost

• Tesla is making it clear they intend to develop into a multi-faceted clean energy company. In order to combat wasteful energy solutions and utilize California’s massive solar potential, Tesla has installed a large battery farm in the Southern part of the state. This project will allow energy to be stored from the grid during the day, making solar panels more effective at night. 

“Battery installations are likely to become more common, whether to vary the number of power supply options to enhance reliability or as part of a move away from fossil fuels to meet climate and other environmental goals.”

Solar Industry Magazine- Government Backed Program Appoints Solar Advisors for U.S. Communities

• The SolSmart Program, backed by the US Department of Energy has appointed its first advisors to help communities unlock the potential of solar energy. The project will empower communities to develop solar power through no-cost technical assistance. 

“Local governments have the tools to make an enormous impact on solar energy growth in their communities. This provides new energy choices for consumers while encouraging economic development and new jobs”

The Boston Globe- Baker Administration Proposes New Solar Incentive Program

• Over the last few years, the state of Massachusetts has made great strides in the implementation of solar power. Nearly a year ago, the state’s solar incentive program hit its limit at 1,600 megawatts of development. Governor Baker recently announced a new initiative that will see the number grow to 3,200 megawatts. The price for this campaign is expected to be significantly lower than the first because more panels are connected to the grid.

“The “Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target” program, provides financial incentives to solar developers that will decline over time, as more solar panels are connected to the grid.”

Patch- Battery Resourcers in Grafton Get $50,000 From State in Clean Energy Grant

• The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center recently announced $200,000 in grants to four clean energy startups. The grants are part of the AccelerateMass program, aimed at supporting clean energy innovators and startups. The program seeks to help these businesses, who have recently graduated accelerators, take their companies to the next level.

“Supporting early-stage clean energy entrepreneurs encourages the innovation the Commonwealth needs to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions”

The Economic Times- US Researchers Develop Solar-Powered Water Purifier

• A solar-powered water purification system has been developed by researchers to combat water shortages around the world. The product will be especially useful in developing areas affected by natural disasters and contaminated water because of its low price and efficiency. Perhaps most remarkable is the very minimal energy lost in the conversion.

“A solar-powered water purification system has been developed by researchers to combat water shortages around the world. The product will be especially useful in developing areas affected by natural disasters and contaminated water because of its low price and efficiency. Perhaps most remarkable is the very minimal energy lost in the conversion.”

Greentech Media- Renewables Boom Will Cause a 40-Fold Increase in Storage in Developing Countries

• The pairing of high energy demand and market reform has caused the development of energy storage solutions to skyrocket. Experts predict a 40% growth in use between now and 2025, with considerable yearly escalation after that period. A growing global population and universal commitment to lowering emissions will be the drivers of this trend. 

“A commitment to limiting carbon emissions through large-scale adoption of intermittent renewable energy will only add to the need for investment in energy storage at the grid level, behind the meter, and in off-grid communities.”