In 2011, more than two-thirds of grid-connected PV system installations were concentrated in California, New Jersey, Arizona and New Mexico
By Larry Sherwood
Renewable Energy World
The solar market, while relatively young, is an increasingly important part of the American economy. My latest IREC report answers important questions about the solar market. What are the trends in the market, and what forces are at work? Which sectors of the market are strongest, and why? What are the prospects for solar energy in the near future?
1. Photovoltaic markets are growing quickly
Last year was another banner year for solar, with large increases in both the number and average size of photovoltaic (PV) installations. The capacity of PV installations in 2011 more than doubled, compared with 2010 installations. More utility-scale systems and an increase in the average system size accounted for this dramatic growth. The total capacity of utility and nonresidential systems installed in 2011 increased by 145% and 132% respectively compared with 2010. The average size of all PV installations grew 64% in 2011, to 29 kWDC.
Also:
Green Jobs: 37,409 Green Jobs in Q2 2012—Report/greentechmedia
New York Governor Approves Pro-Solar Legislation Package/Solar Industry
Community Solar Bill Advances In California/Solar Industry
China claims U.S. clean energy projects violate trade rules/ Dow Jones News
