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. 

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Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar Industry Article - re-posted by Lightstar

For jobs and survival, Michigan needs community solar now

Relevant and timely article: For jobs and survival, Michigan needs community solar now

Michigan lawmakers are considering Senate Bills 152 and 153 to enable community solar, allowing all residents to access clean, affordable, and reliable energy, regardless of income or housing status, and creating thousands of jobs in the state.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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