Solar Power Array

Solar power is quickly making great leaps in terms of the amount of power it solar cells are able to generate. And National Geographic Emerging Explorer and nanoscientist Xiaolin Zheng is working to broaden solar power's ability to transform our lives. Zheng has created sticky solar cells that adhere to the backs of gadgets and can help "charge the chargers," allowing us to power phones and GPS devices from the woods, for example. She expects these devices to hit the market within a few years.

The Future of Solar Power - Xiaolin Zheng

Illinois lawmakers are considering a series of proposals that could either fuel the continued growth of a new industry or stop it in its tracks. The Chicago based Environmental Law and Policy Center says the state’s renewable energy industry now accounts for about 20,000 jobs. WDCB's Brian O'Keefe spoke with ELPC Executive Director Howard Learner. He says the sector will continue to grow if governments do the right thing.


Wind and Solar Power Employ 20,000 In Illinois

Too much renewable power? A German engineer comes up with a way to store excess renewable energy, take pressure off the grid and ease the way for the adoption of more wind and solar power in a country that's already way ahead of most of the rest of us.

When the grid says 'no' to wind and solar power, this company's technology helps it say 'yes' again

Solar power: Abundant and free - #BCTOWORK - Apr 15

Tesla is famous for its electric cars, and it's now moving into the world of batteries. The company introduced new systems designed to store power from unreliable wind and solar sources, hoping to make a fortune and change the energy market forever.

If Tesla's new solar power batteries are as good as its cars, they could be a game changer

Two breweries open every day in the U.S., and 75% of Americans live within 10 miles of one. And as it turns out, many brewery owners are conscience of the environment and energy usage, making them perfect potential solar customers.

This is especially true as breweries mature and make plans for their next phase of growth, said Bart Watson, chief economist of the Brewers Association. 

“It makes good business sense,” Watson said. “Breweries are energy intensive. It’s a manufacturing business. When you’re constantly heating water for your boil kettle or hot liquor tank having a reliable source of energy that over the long term reduces your costs makes sense.” 

Listen to this Solar Speaks podcast to learn more about the micro-brew business and whether breweries could be good prospects for your solar business. 

Photo © Brewers Association


Brewers Association economist: Why are craft brews turning to solar?

Hawaiian solar often makes headlines, but no one knows it quite like Dora Nakafuji. As direct of renewable energy planning at Hawaiian Electric Company, Nakafuji and her team have developed utility programs that are being studied and replicated across the country. During a 2016 Solar Speaks Live interview, she shares her perspective on Hawaiian solar and how a utility built on collaboration and understanding how customers use energy is the best for solar.

Creating A New Type Of Utility For Solar

Contractor's Corner is part of the Solar Power World network of podcasts. Solar Power World is the premier media outlet for the U.S. solar market and has the largest solar installer, contractor and developer audience in the industry.  In this podcast series, Solar Power World editors talk with the U.S. solar industry’s biggest newsmakers.

Brewers Association economist: Why are craft brews turning to solar?

Contractor's Corner by Solar Power World

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