22/03/2026-Solar Energy Investment News & People Moves
- Viridian Energy
- 23 hours ago
- 5 min read
USA News
Idemitsu Solar + Storage Project Targets California Peak Demand
Idemitsu Renewables has brought online a solar-plus-storage project in California designed to address peak electricity demand challenges. The project combines 60 MW of solar generation with a 152 MWh battery system, enabling excess daytime energy to be stored and dispatched during evening peak hours.
This hybrid approach enhances grid reliability and helps mitigate California’s “duck curve” issue by shifting renewable energy to when it is most needed. Backed by a long-term power purchase agreement, the project supports clean energy delivery to thousands of homes while reducing emissions and improving overall grid flexibility.
Minnesota LMI Community Solar Reaches 179 MW Amid Policy Shift
Minnesota’s Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) community solar program has reached 179 MW across 133 projects, demonstrating strong progress in expanding solar access.
The initiative, launched in 2024, is exceeding equity targets, with a majority of participants from low-income households. However, a transition from an uncapped to a capped system has introduced competition among developers for limited annual capacity. While the program improves accessibility and inclusivity in renewable energy, it also faces challenges such as interconnection delays and evolving compensation models. The shift reflects a more structured but competitive approach to scaling community solar in the state.
LEGO Plans Large-Scale Solar to Power Virginia Factory
The LEGO Group is developing two major solar installations to support its new Virginia manufacturing facility’s renewable energy goals. The project includes an 80-acre ground-mounted solar park with over 30,700 panels (22 MWp) and additional rooftop systems generating 6.1 MWp.
Together, these installations aim to help the factory run on 100% renewable energy. The initiative aligns with LEGO’s broader sustainability strategy, including carbon reduction and zero-waste targets. Beyond environmental benefits, the project supports local economic growth and job creation, positioning the facility as a model for sustainable industrial development in the United States.
Avantus Completes 159 MW Solar Project in Central Texas
Avantus, in partnership with Toyota Tsusho America, has completed the 159 MW Norton Solar Project in Texas. The project supplies renewable energy under a long-term virtual power purchase agreement with Toyota Motor North America, helping the company meet sustainability targets.
Constructed with support from EPC contractor RES, the project created approximately 250 jobs during peak construction and will deliver long-term economic benefits to the region. This development highlights the growing role of corporate-backed solar procurement and reinforces Texas’ position as a leading market for large-scale solar deployment in the United States.
Mercedes-Benz Distribution Center in California Goes Solar
Mercedes-Benz USA has installed a rooftop solar system at its California parts distribution center to enhance sustainability and reduce operating costs.
The system is designed to supply a significant portion of the facility’s daily energy needs while lowering reliance on grid electricity. This initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to decarbonization and energy efficiency across its operations. By integrating on-site solar, the facility improves long-term energy resilience and cost stability, while contributing to California’s clean energy transition and corporate adoption of distributed renewable energy solutions in logistics and industrial sectors.
Germany News
German PV Systems Show Stronger-Than-Expected Lifespan Performance
A recent large-scale study in Germany reveals that photovoltaic systems are outperforming lifespan expectations, reinforcing confidence in long-term solar investments.
Researchers analyzed over one million systems across 16 years and found annual degradation rates of only around 0.52–0.61%, significantly lower than earlier assumptions. Environmental factors such as heat, frost, and air pollution influence performance, while smaller systems tend to degrade more slowly than utility-scale installations. The findings highlight improved durability, higher lifetime energy yields, and stronger project economics. Overall, the study supports the reliability and profitability of solar power as a key pillar of the energy transition.
SolarEdge Launches Nexis Integrated Solar-Storage System in Germany
SolarEdge has introduced its next-generation Nexis residential solar and storage system in Germany, combining a hybrid inverter, modular battery, and backup functionality into a single integrated solution. The system offers scalable storage capacity from 4.9 kWh up to 78.4 kWh and supports up to 20 kW output, enabling homeowners to adapt energy systems based on demand. Designed with a modular “plug-and-play” architecture, Nexis simplifies installation and enhances efficiency. The launch reflects growing demand for energy self-consumption, EV integration, and smart home solutions, positioning SolarEdge strongly in Europe’s evolving residential solar and storage market.
Germany’s Solar Expansion Falls Below 1 GW in February
Germany’s solar market recorded a slowdown in February 2026, with newly installed photovoltaic capacity dropping to حوالي 930 MW—the lowest monthly addition since March 2025. This marks a decline from stronger installation trends seen in previous months and highlights growing challenges in maintaining the pace required to meet national renewable energy targets. The slowdown raises concerns for policymakers and industry stakeholders, as Germany needs significantly higher monthly additions to stay on track for its 2030 solar goals. Factors such as market uncertainty, policy adjustments, and grid constraints are likely contributing to the reduced deployment rate.
Peoples Move
Arevon Energy Appoints Justin Johnson as CEO
Arevon Energy has officially appointed Justin Johnson as Chief Executive Officer, following his tenure as Chief Operating Officer and interim CEO since February 2026. Johnson steps into the permanent role at a critical growth phase for the company, which is actively expanding its renewable energy portfolio across the United States.
His operational leadership experience positions him to drive execution, scale project delivery, and strengthen Arevon’s market position. The company has not yet announced a replacement for the COO role. This leadership transition reflects continuity and stability as Arevon accelerates its clean energy strategy.
American Clean Power Association Announces 2026 Leadership Board
The American Clean Power Association has confirmed its 2026 board and officer appointments, signaling strong leadership during a complex political and regulatory period. David Carroll will serve as Chair, with Ken Young as Chair-Elect, and Andrew Flanagan as Secretary.
This leadership team represents major players in the renewable energy sector and will guide policy advocacy, market development, and industry coordination. Their direction will be key in navigating evolving legislation and maintaining momentum in the U.S. energy transition.
SolaREIT Strengthens Leadership with Key Executive Promotions
SolaREIT has announced the promotion of three senior leaders to support its growth strategy amid tightening capital markets. Valerio Lombardo has been named Executive Vice President of Corporate Finance, Brendan Burtis is now Vice President of Finance, and Christina Akay has been promoted to Chief Marketing Officer.
These leadership changes come as powered land and real estate-backed financing models gain importance in renewable development. The appointments aim to enhance capital access, financial structuring, and market positioning as SolaREIT expands its role in solar and storage project financing.
Comments