Lightstar Lightstar

Detroit’s Solar Neighborhoods Take Shape with Lightstar and Local Input

Between September and December 2024, the Lightstar team, in partnership with local organizations in Detroit, hosted a series of neighborhood meetings to collaboratively shape the City’s Phase I Solar Neighborhoods program. These community gatherings provided a space for neighbors from Gratiot-Findlay and State Fair to share their visions, preferences, and ideas for the solar arrays soon to be integrated into their neighborhoods. Together, we explored landscaping and fencing options, presenting various designs for their thoughtful input. Residents cast votes for their favorite designs, which helped us finalize a landscaping plan that reflects their collective voice.

Read More
Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar

NJ Enacts 200-MW Dual-solar Pilot Program

Lightstar’s own Kelly Buchanan, Policy & Strategy Manager, East, shares information on NJ Enacts 200-MW Dual-solar Pilot Program

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has approved a three-year pilot program to create 200 MW of dual-use solar capacity that puts solar panels on functioning farmland in a precursor to a permanent program. 

Read More
Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar

Energy News Network: How a solar development turned from threat to opportunity for an Illinois farmer

Great article from Energy News Network: As the world continues to turn towards renewable energy sources, there has been a growing concern over the impact these projects may have on agricultural land. Farmers rely on their land for their livelihood, and losing valuable farmland to solar farms can be devastating. However, one Illinois farmer found a way to turn this potential conflict into a mutually beneficial opportunity through agrivoltaics.

Read More
Allison DeNunzio, PE, Director of Engineering Allison DeNunzio, PE, Director of Engineering

The Importance of Agrivoltaics and Community Solar: Challenges and Opportunities 

Did you know the global capacity for solar energy could cover more than 100 times the world’s current energy use? Now imagine harnessing this power to simultaneously boost agricultural productivity. 

Agrivoltaics, a groundbreaking concept that combines agriculture with photovoltaic technology, is transforming landscapes by integrating solar panels with crop cultivation. This innovative approach not only enhances energy efficiency but also sustains agricultural output. Coupled with community solar initiatives, agrivoltaics offers a strategic path towards sustainable development, engaging local communities in renewable energy adoption. 

Read More
Lightstar Lightstar

Rutgers: Cows and a new innovation in solar energy

Agrivoltaics is the next frontier of the clean energy transition! Rutgers, American Farmland Trust and other New Jersey stakeholders have been hard at work leading the agrivoltaics industry towards further research and commercial deployment that will benefit farmers, local food production, and clean energy goals simultaneously. On Thursday, October 10th, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities will provide an update on the dual-use pilot program rules. Lightstar is anxious to see this program opened and for the benefits of agrivoltaics to be accessed more widely in the Garden State. 

Read More
Olivia Feldman, Development Manager Olivia Feldman, Development Manager

Solar Development from an Environmental Consultant’s Lens 

Solar development is increasingly recognized as a substantial contributor to the renewable energy sector. Yet, the path to achieving environmentally responsible solar projects is layered with complexities. From my roots as an environmental consultant to my current role as a solar development manager, I've navigated this terrain by balancing the dual imperatives of preserving local environmental and community character with renewable development needs.

Read More
Kyle McAdam, Development Manager Kyle McAdam, Development Manager

3 Winners, 2 Losers from the 2nd Annual Solar Farm Summit

3 Winners, 2 Losers from the 2nd Annual Solar Farm Summit - Has it already been a few weeks since the solar industry converged on the Loews Chicago Hotel for the 2nd annual Solar Farm Summit?

Read More
Brianna Fiorillo, Policy & Strategy Manager, Midwest Brianna Fiorillo, Policy & Strategy Manager, Midwest

Iowa ISU AgPV Tour Recap

ISU visit was a spectacular display of a land grant institution executing on the three pieces: extension, research and teaching. To begin with the main attraction, the agrivoltaics array that was built with Alliant Energy showcases how land grants are moving towards research on agrivoltaics with commercially scaled specifications.

Read More
Lightstar Lightstar

Out and About with Owen: CattleTracker Workshop

Meet Owen Deitcher, a dynamic Development Associate at Lightstar, whose passion for community solar and agrivoltaics illuminates his work and personal adventures. Owen isn't just part of our team; he's the heart of our mission, bringing the spirit of community to everything we do in solar energy. Travelling across the country and occasionally Europe, he dives deep into rural communities, engaging with farmers and locals, enriching his understanding, and advocating for a brighter, sustainable future. Beyond his professional pursuits, Owen’s love for travel and meeting new people fuels his quest for knowledge and connection, making him a true advocate for rural communities and sustainable development. Join Owen on his mission to empower communities through solar energy, one conversation at a time.

Read More
Lightstar Lightstar

Sorensen Introduces Bill to Expand Opportunities for Farmers 

Has the US caught up with European agrivoltaic deployment?

With so much more agricultural real estate than Europe, the United States is building on the body of research built up across The Pond and rolling out solar panels on farmland at an impressive rate.

Read More