Climate Change Solutions Update

Tag: Utah

  • Balcony Solar Is Here, And It’s Not Just For Balconies

    Lawmakers in states like Utah, Virginia, and Maine are introducing legislation to promote the use of balcony solar panels, which plug into household outlets and reduce electricity usage from the grid. The movement has faced hurdles in the US due to utility and landlord restrictions, safety concerns, and aging housing stock, but efforts are being made to address these issues. In Maine, where electricity rates have increased by 68% over the past five years, the potential benefits of balcony solar systems are being highlighted. Non-profit organization Bright Saver is advocating for balcony solar in the US, with kits already available in California, and supermarket chain Lidl is planning to carry plug-in solar panels at its UK stores. The Biden-era federal tax credits for household renewable energy improvements are seen as a helpful incentive for investing in solar energy. Companies are establishing a presence in solar-friendly states on the East Coast, using balcony solar kits to generate clean electricity and reduce monthly utility bills.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/04/03/balcony-solar-is-here-and-its-not-just-for-balconies/

  • Balcony Solar Is Spreading Across The US

    The balcony solar movement, originating in Germany, is spreading to the US with Illinois considering legislation to make it more accessible. Germany has seen over one million balcony solar panel installations, and Utah is the only state with comprehensive balcony solar laws. Safety First Bill 3104 aims to establish relaxed rules for small systems and UL Solutions has launched a certification program. The US coal industry faces challenges, with global coal prices spiking due to disruptions in natural gas supplies. The focus on renewable energy sources like solar power is crucial in the face of these challenges.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/28/balcony-solar-is-spreading-across-the-us/

  • Enhanced geothermal deployment could be compressed to under 3 years: report

    Enhanced geothermal projects ranging from 100 MW to 500 MW can be operational within three to six years, significantly reducing conventional development timelines. The Department of Energy is supporting geothermal development through funding opportunities for next-generation field-scale tests. Geothermal energy is a reliable renewable source with a capacity factor above 80%, and its decreasing costs combined with firm capacity value are strengthening the economic case. Fervo Energy's Cape Station geothermal plant in Utah, benefiting from technology transfer from the oil and gas industry, demonstrates the potential for rapid and scalable development of enhanced geothermal projects in the U.S.

    https://www.utilitydive.com/news/enhanced-geothermal-deployment-could-be-compressed-under-three-years-repor/815227/

  • Ebikes & Bikes for Everything, + Much of What I’ve Learned Riding Bikes for 75 Years (Part I)

    The section discusses the use of bikes and ebikes as a sustainable transportation option in conjunction with public transportation in places like Utah, highlighting the benefits of last-mile transportation and commuting to work. Emphasizing the importance of dedicated bike paths and safe roads, the article also mentions the convenience of using bike racks on buses and trains. Additionally, it discusses the practicality of riding in various weather conditions, the benefits of ebikes for transportation and recreation, and the positive impact of biking on mental and physical health. The section also addresses options for old and handicapped individuals to use special bikes for transportation, providing tips on preventing flat tires and focusing on practical solutions for individuals facing mobility challenges while cycling.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/17/ebikes-bikes-for-everything-much-of-what-ive-learned-riding-bikes-for-75-years-part-i/

  • Moves afoot to bring balcony solar to Australia, and new wave of products has batteries included

    Efforts are underway in Australia to enable renters and apartment dwellers to install solar and battery systems on their balconies, following examples from Europe, India, South Korea, and Utah. The main challenge lies in changing regulations to ensure safety and compliance with electrical standards, with testing being conducted on balcony batteries for backup power during outages. Various organizations and governments are working to overcome legal and regulatory barriers to make plug-in balcony solar and batteries a reality in Australia. Advocates are pushing for regulatory changes to make balcony solar more accessible, highlighting benefits such as running critical devices during power cuts and tapping into dynamic tariff pricing. Despite challenges like outdated technology and conservative committees, there is potential for government intervention to drive progress towards clean energy solutions in Australia.

    https://reneweconomy.com.au/moves-afoot-to-bring-balcony-solar-to-australia-and-new-wave-of-products-has-batteries-included/

  • How to design a UL-certified balcony solar kit in the United States

    UL Solutions has released new technical guidance and a proposed certification pathway for plug-in balcony solar systems, addressing safety risks and design requirements as US states consider legalizing the technology. The white paper outlines safety considerations such as overcurrent protection, touch safety, and ground-fault protection for consumer-installed solar systems that connect directly to wall outlets. UL developed a new certification pathway, UL 3700, following the passage of Utah's balcony solar legislation, with similar bills under consideration in other states. Potential mitigation measures include dedicated circuits, solar-specific receptacles, and careful design for interactions with ground-fault circuit interrupters. UL emphasizes evaluating safety outcomes over commercial viability for plug-in PV systems.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/02/02/how-to-design-a-ul-certified-balcony-solar-kit-in-the-united-states/

  • More US States Are Promoting Balcony Solar

    Balcony solar is a concept that allows apartment dwellers to generate their own electricity by hanging solar panels on their balcony railings, democratizing the energy supply and reducing utility bills. States like Utah, New York, and Pennsylvania are passing legislation to allow for the installation of balcony solar systems, seen as a game changer for renters and low-income individuals. Despite some utility companies' hesitancy due to grid issues and threats to their business model, the growing interest in balcony solar systems at the state level is a response to federal negativity towards clean energy. Legislation exempting balcony solar systems from interconnection agreements with utility companies, along with a typical break-even point of around 3 years, is expected to make balcony solar more accessible in the future.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2025/12/01/more-us-states-are-promoting-balcony-solar/