According to a new report, America broke records in terms of installed solar capacity last year, jumping to 11 percent of total global installations. [Greentech Media]
It may not compare to the German solar market. But the U.S. is definitely becoming a major force globally when it comes to new installations.
According to the 2012 Solar Market Insight report from GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association, America installed 3,313 megawatts of solar capacity last year — accounting for 11 percent of total global installations. That’s up from 7 percent in 2011.
“From 2004 until 2010, America’s global share had been stuck in a tight band. The U.S. significantly broke that in 2012,” said Shayle Kann, vice president at GTM Research. “Our forecasts put us at 13 percent in 2013.”
In Nevada, federal and state officials announced the approval of the McCoy Solar Energy Project, the Desert Harvest Solar Farm, and the Searchlight Wind Energy Project. [San Jose Mercury News]
Following the worst drought in 50 years, US farmers are bracing for long-term challenges due to climate change like heat waves, droughts, and floods.[Global Post]
Supporters of a bill just introduced to the NC General Assembly that would repeal the state’s Renewable Energy Standard are unsure of its prospects for passage. [Charlotte Business Journal]
Four lawmakers who unveiled a proposal for pricing carbon are soliciting public comments for how big the tax should be and how best to rebate the money. [Washington Post]
Monarch butterfly migration plunged to its lowest level in decades, hastened by drought and record-breaking heat in North America. [New York Times]
Paul Ryan’s budget accuses two solar projects in Nevada and Arizona “ill-fated” but they’re actually success stories. [Washington Post]
President Obama asked Organizing for America to give lawmakers cover on potential action on climate change. [The Hill]
Bill McKibben makes the case that immigration reform will “help, not hurt, our environmental efforts” on climate change. [LA Times]