Having just returned from RE+ in Anaheim — the largest renewable energy gathering in North America — it’s clear that the future of our industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. This year’s conference broke last year's record with over 50,000 attendees and was filled with insights, innovation, and lively discussions that promises to reshape the solar landscape. Here are three key takeaways that stood out to me:
Solar Modules Are Growing in Size and Power
One of the most noticeable trends at the conference was that solar modules are getting significantly larger, both in wattage and physical size. Manufacturers are pushing the limits, with new panels boasting capacities of over 700W and larger surface areas to capture more sunlight. While this presents opportunities for higher energy yields and improved project economics, it also requires developers to rethink design considerations, logistics, and installation practices to handle these larger panels. In other words, there’s a balance to be struck — between increasing capacity and ensuring practical, cost-efficient deployment. At AC Power, we’re eager to explore how these advancements can optimize our project portfolio and increase our contribution to the clean energy transition.
Uncertainty Ahead of the 2024 Election
The elephant in the room (or maybe donkey, depending on your flavor) was the upcoming U.S. presidential election, casting a shadow over every conversation. With federal support via the Inflation Reduction Act having been critical to the growth of renewables in the last several years, the uncertainty surrounding the election's outcome has injected a degree of caution into the industry. Many developers and investors are weighing potential policy shifts and their implications on project pipelines, financing, and regulatory landscapes. Despite the air of uncertainty, there was a prevailing feeling that the industry is mature enough to weather any political headwinds coming its way, and no one is expecting the growth to slow down anytime soon. But let's be real, no one’s ignoring the looming political storm clouds. Our stance? Stay nimble, stay vocal, and keep pushing for policies that keep the green wave rolling — whoever's in charge.
A Critical Need for Workforce Development
Now, let’s talk about a crisis that's creeping up fast: workforce shortages. As the industry scales up, so does the need for electricians, installers, engineers, and other professionals who can build, maintain, and optimize solar and storage systems. Companies are scrambling to train up talent, while also hoping that technological advances make the transition to a green workforce easier. The answer lies in comprehensive training programs, education initiatives, and diversity efforts to ensure a robust, inclusive workforce. Many companies at RE+ emphasized investments in robotics and automated solutions, highlighting the perceived absence of an adequate workforce to handle the growing installation needs of the industry. At AC Power, we’re dedicated to fostering local job creation and supporting initiatives that build the skilled labor force necessary for a sustainable future.
RE+ provided a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities ahead, with technological advancements, political uncertainty, and workforce development at the forefront. It’s an exciting, dynamic time for the solar industry, and as we navigate these changes, AC Power is committed to being at the heart of the solutions driving the sector forward.
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