Public Solar Makes a Big Leap
Solar industry enthusiasts have a lot to celebrate as SOLV, a leading EPC in the solar market, went public on the NASDAQ, raising $513 million. The company, trading under the ticker MWH, saw its stock rise by 20% on the first day of trading. SOLV’s growth from its roots in Swinerton to one of the largest energy service providers for solar and storage marks a significant milestone in the sector.
The rising number of public solar companies strengthens the market and opens up further opportunities for investment and innovation.
TVA’s Board and the Future of Solar Advocacy
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) holds untapped potential to become a model for the future of energy if its board aligns more closely with solar advocates. For almost two decades, political dynamics have influenced board appointments, limiting progress. However, recent shifts suggest new possibilities for solar-friendly leadership that could steer TVA toward a cleaner energy future.
Despite some recent votes to keep coal plants open, the opportunity to transform TVA remains a key focal point for the solar community.
Energy Market Trends and Policy Updates
- Industrial power demand in the U.S. is rising, intensifying the need for additional power generation capacity.
- A deep freeze recently more than doubled power costs on the country’s largest grid, highlighting the challenges of extreme weather on energy infrastructure.
- Natural gas installations more than doubled in 2025, reflecting an ongoing energy transition alongside renewable growth.
- The European Union approved a €3 billion German clean energy manufacturing scheme, boosting the continent’s clean energy capabilities.
- FlexGen has started operating a 700 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) across Wisconsin and Iowa for Alliant Energy, demonstrating advances in energy storage deployment.
Noteworthy Industry Moves
- Norway’s wealth fund is actively seeking investments in battery storage as the market matures, signaling growing confidence in energy storage technologies.
- Tesla is set to launch a vehicle-to-grid program in the U.S., enabling electric vehicles to support grid stability and energy management.
- Singapore has increased its solar power installation target for 2030, reflecting a global trend toward expanding renewable energy goals.
- The UK awarded 4.9 GW of solar PV capacity in its latest Contracts for Difference round, supporting large-scale solar development.
Challenges and Insights
While progress is evident, challenges remain. For example, the number of battery energy storage system interconnection applications in ERCOT dropped by 50% in the second half of 2025 due to emerging issues in the rapid expansion of storage projects.
Additionally, new legislative proposals, such as a bill in Ohio, could effectively ban solar and wind development statewide, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and attention to policy impacts.
Cultural Highlights and Workforce Development
Solar for Women has announced a spring 2026 webinar series focused on workforce development, emphasizing the importance of cultivating diverse talent in the solar industry.
On a cultural note, Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show spotlighted Puerto Rico’s grid challenges, bringing public attention to energy resilience and infrastructure needs.
Looking Ahead
The solar and energy storage markets are evolving rapidly with exciting new entrants, policy shifts, and technological advancements. Staying informed about these trends and challenges will be key for industry stakeholders and advocates alike.
Best, Yann
