Higher Power PV Modules Drive Up BOS Costs

Ameresco, Inc., (NYSE: AMRC), a leading energy infrastructure solutions provider, celebrated the completion of a new solar photovoltaic (PV) installation at the Skokie Courthouse in Cook County, Illinois, with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony alongside Cook County leadership and project partners. The solar installation consists of two arrays, totaling 1.5 megawatts (MW), located on the courthouse rooftop and on the parking garage, designed to generate approximately 1,737 megawatt‑hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually.

The system is expected to offset over 50 percent of the facility’s annual electricity consumption, advancing Cook County’s sustainability and decarbonization goals while reducing long‑term operating costs.

“This project demonstrates Cook County’s commitment to leading by example when it comes to clean energy and responsible stewardship of public facilities,” said President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President. “By investing in on‑site renewable energy at the Skokie Courthouse, we are reducing emissions, lowering energy costs, and creating long‑term value for residents.”

The environmental benefits of the project remain significant, particularly in the context of today’s heightened focus on energy independence, cost stability, and emissions reduction. The system is projected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 722 metric tons of CO₂e annually—roughly equivalent to the carbon sequestered by more than 724 acres of forest each year. At the same time, it is expected to generate enough clean energy to match the annual electricity use of over 150 homes, helping to reduce reliance on volatile energy markets while supporting long-term sustainability and resilience goals.

“Projects like the Skokie Courthouse solar installation highlight how public sector facilities can play a meaningful role in the energy transition,” said Lou Maltezos, Co-President of Ameresco. “We’re proud to collaborate with Cook County to deliver a solution that supports resilience, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility while producing measurable environmental benefits for the community.”

The project was developed in collaboration with Cook County’s Bureau of Asset Management, with leadership and support from the County’s energy and facilities teams. By leveraging underutilized space on the courthouse roof and parking structures, the installation maximizes clean energy generation without impacting daily courthouse operations.

In addition to completing the Skokie Courthouse solar installation, Ameresco has also been awarded eight additional solar projects with Cook County, further expanding the County’s on‑site renewable energy portfolio. These projects, currently in the design phase, represent approximately 3.3 MW of new solar capacity and are expected to be completed by November 2027. Together, these systems will play a key role in supporting Cook County’s 2030 sustainability and emissions‑reduction goals.

Ameresco | https://www.ameresco.com/solution-solar-power/

A new Grove GMK6300L-1 all-terrain crane was delivered to Rókin Sp/f, one of the leading construction companies on the Faroe Islands. The handover marks a significant step for Rókin, which has traditionally relied on rented cranes for project-based work and is now strengthening its capabilities with a powerful, versatile machine of its own. The GMK6300L-1 is not only the newest addition to Rókin’s fleet – it is also the largest crane currently operating on the Faroe Islands, setting a new benchmark for lifting capability in the region.

Rókin specialises in harbor construction, drilling, piling, woodworking, storage, and related infrastructure work. The company’s existing fleet includes excavators, rollers, vibrators and loading cranes – but notably no mobile crane until now. With growing project demands and an expanding construction portfolio, the GMK6300L-1 provides Rókin with the flexibility and lifting performance required for complex coastal and industrial tasks across the islands.

Immediately after arriving on the islands, the GMK6300L-1 was deployed directly to its first job in a local harbor, where it successfully supported essential lifting operations. The crane demonstrated its strength, reach and precision from day one, proving its value for coastal working conditions that require reliability, power and stability.

The GMK6300L-1 offers a 300 t maximum lifting capacity and an impressive 80 m main boom, making it ideal for challenging terrains and demanding lifting operations. Combined with Grove’s renowned reliability and robust design, the crane is exceptionally well suited for the Faroe Islands’ harsh weather conditions.

The crane was sold by UN Mobilkraner A/S, Manitowoc’s official dealer in Denmark. UN Mobilkraner A/S will also provide ongoing local support and service, ensuring Rókin receives expert assistance, maintenance, and responsive technical backing throughout the crane’s lifecycle. The company’s strong customer service approach ensures the crane is always ready for efficient operation.

Manitowoc | www.manitowoc.com

e1 Marine, a leading developer of advanced hydrogen generation technology for the maritime and port sectors, has announced a further commercial project in the marine leisure and superyacht market, supplying methanol-to-hydrogen reformer technology to support PowerCell Group’s M2Power 250 system onboard a large yacht. The installation, rated at 0.5 MW, is part of a retrofit program, with delivery planned for 2027.

The announcement forms part of PowerCell’s 43 MSEK order for the M2Power 250 methanol-to-power platform from a European shipyard. Each 250 kW module integrates e1 Marine’s M30 methanol-to-hydrogen reformer with PowerCell’s marine fuel cells to generate hydrogen on demand for clean electrical power. Designed to replace traditional marine diesel gensets, the integration eliminates the need for compressed hydrogen storage while enabling quiet, low-emission operation.

Dave Lee, Executive Director, e1 Marine, commented: “This project represents an important milestone for e1 Marine, building on our earlier collaboration with PowerCell and marking our second commercial project supporting the marine leisure and superyacht markets. Larger yacht builders are increasingly looking for practical ways to cut emissions and improve onboard environmental performance without compromising reliability, range, or sailing experience. On-demand hydrogen generation from methanol provides a compelling pathway to do just that, and we’re pleased to collaborate with PowerCell to provide the yachting sector with greater choice of high-performance, lower-emission energy options.”

The project builds on the ongoing collaboration between e1 Marine and PowerCell to deliver fully integrated reformer-fuel-cell solutions for maritime applications through the M2Power 250 system. Within this, e1 Marine’s technology generates fuel cell-grade hydrogen (≥99.97% purity, ISO 14687 compliant) onboard from a methanol-and-water feedstock blend for direct use in fuel cells, producing only water and heat as by-products, with the latter offering potential for recovery and onboard use where appropriate.

Based on third-party lifecycle assessments, e1 Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen systems can deliver significant greenhouse-gas emission reductions compared with conventional marine diesel – from 10-27% with grey methanol to as much as 85% using green methanol – alongside reductions of more than 99% in regulated local air pollutants such as NOx, SOx, particulate matter, CO and hydrocarbons.

Richard Berkling, CEO, PowerCell Group, said: “The order confirms market interest in our methanol-to-power platform. The M2Power 250 offers shipowners a practical way to reduce emissions in existing vessels and supports the accelerating shift toward cleaner auxiliary and propulsion power.”

e1 Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen systems are designed to generate hydrogen onboard and on demand, making them well-suited to larger yachts and leisure vessels seeking flexible, lower-emission solutions that integrate within existing fuel and storage arrangements. Because methanol is a liquid at ambient conditions and increasingly available as a marine fuel, it enables the benefits of hydrogen fuel-cell power without relying on dedicated hydrogen bunkering or high-pressure storage. The same technology can also support applications across workboats and short-sea vessels under 2,000 GT, port and terminal equipment, and as a containerized, grid-independent source of clean energy for ports and yards.

Lee added: “One of the key strengths of methanol-to-hydrogen reforming is its versatility. This project shows how the technology can meet the specific operational and experience-driven demands of larger yachts today, while also offering a scalable pathway that can support other maritime segments as decarbonization progresses.”

e1 Marine | www.e1marine.com

PowerCell Group | powercellgroup.com

Intersolar & Energy Storage North America (IESNA), the premier U.S. event series for solar, storage, EV infrastructure, and manufacturing, opened registration for its third-annual Texas tradeshow and conference on September 1–2, 2026, at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX.

"IESNA Texas supports the Texas market’s demand for its own conversation," said Beckie Kier, Event Director, Intersolar & Energy Storage North America. "In Dallas, we'll deliver a stronger exhibit hall footprint, expanded networking activities, and outcome-focused educational sessions that increase the value of the event for every attendee."

What to Expect at IESNA Texas 2026

• A curated exhibit hall showcasing solar and storage products and services from leading national and regional suppliers.
• A regionally-focused conference program covering critical topics in market development, project economics, manufacturing, supply chain, grid resilience, and more.
• Keynote presentations from clean energy leaders and advocates that deliver ground-level insight and big-picture perspective on Texas' energy future
• Daily networking meals that facilitate new connections and peer discussion 
• Engaging activities open to all attendees, including the return of the Heated Exchange panel and hot sauce tasting

Plan Your Experience

• See the Schedule At-a-Glance
• Get Passes & Pricing information
• Explore the Dallas Venue & Hotel
• Register here for Early Bird pricing—available through May 31, 2026

Intersolar & Energy Storage North America | www.iesna.com

Diversified | www.divcom.com

FirstLight, a leading clean power producer, developer, and energy storage company, and Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation, announced the award of their 57.2 MW Fort Frances Solar Project in the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) Long-Term 2 Request for Proposals (LT2). The Fort Frances Solar Project was one of 14 projects awarded contracts by the IESO, together representing more than 1,300 MW of new clean electricity supply for the province as it works to support forecasted increased electricity demand, while maintaining affordability and advancing carbon reduction goals.

Upon completion, the Project will generate enough clean electricity to power approximately 8,000 Ontario households and will create local employment during construction and throughout its 20‑year contract term, delivering meaningful economic and community benefits to the Town of Fort Frances. As a 50% partner, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation will be involved in the Project’s development. The Project will also support the First Nation’s growth, vision, and prosperity.

The Fort Frances Solar Project builds on FirstLight and its predecessors’ more than 100-year legacy in the community through its 13.1MW hydroelectric project, Fort Frances Generating Station, which was built in 1909 and is located on the Rainy River.

“FirstLight is thrilled to have been awarded a contract in the IESO’s LT2 Energy Supply Procurement to bring new solar generation online for communities across Ontario in collaboration with our valued partner, Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation,” said Justin Trudell, President and CEO of FirstLight. “We are proud to support Ontario’s growing electricity demand and efforts to maintain affordability without compromising on carbon reduction targets.”

“Securing this contract represents a meaningful step forward in building long-term, sustainable economic capacity for our Nation while contributing to Ontario’s future energy needs,” said Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation Chief Whitecloud. “The Fort Frances Solar Project reflects how Indigenous Nations can participate as true partners in major infrastructure – shaping projects from the outset, ensuring responsible stewardship of our traditional lands, and creating enduring value for our members. We are proud to work alongside FirstLight to advance a project that aligns economic opportunity with environmental responsibility and intergenerational benefit.”

“Congratulations to FirstLight on the award by the IESO of their 57.2 MW solar farm that will be developed within the Town of Fort Frances. Fort Frances welcomes the development of Green Energy Sources within its boundaries,” said Fort Frances Mayor Andrew Hallikas. “This Solar Farm will contribute to the economic future of Fort Frances, the Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation and the Province of Ontario and will provide much needed clean, reliable, renewable electricity that will power industry and our daily lives. We are proud to see a long-standing partner like FirstLight continuing to invest in our community, and we look forward to an enduring, mutually beneficial relationship with FirstLight and Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation.”

FirstLight | www.firstlight.energy 

American automotive and technology company Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) and critical materials and energy technology company Redwood Materials announced a partnership to deploy pioneering battery energy storage at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois manufacturing facility. Using more than 100 second-life Rivian battery packs, Redwood and Rivian’s solution will initially provide 10 megawatt-hours (MWh) of dispatchable energy to reduce cost and grid load during peak demand periods—saving on cost and supporting grid security and reliability.

Rivian will provide EV battery packs to Redwood, who will integrate them into a Redwood Energy system, supported by the company’s Redwood Pack Manager technology, allowing their stored energy to be used on-site by Rivian’s plant in Normal. This system is rapidly scalable and offers significant cost benefits by using safe and proven EV batteries. This approach enables faster, more flexible deployment of energy capacity directly at high-demand sites like manufacturing facilities.

To capture and balance the growth in peak electricity demand expected, the U.S. must deploy massive amounts of energy storage. By 2030, estimates are that over 600GWh of storage is needed to meet growing demand, stabilize peaks, and power the technology innovation of the 21st century. This represents a virtual reservoir equivalent to the total energy output of the Hoover Dam running for two months straight.

“EVs represent a massive, distributed and highly competitive energy resource," said Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe. “As energy needs grow, our grid needs to be flexible, secure, and affordable. Our partnership with Redwood enables us to utilize our vehicle’s batteries beyond the life of a vehicle and contribute to grid health and American competitiveness."

"Electricity demand is accelerating faster than the grid can expand, posing a constraint on industrial growth," said JB Straubel, Redwood Materials Founder and CEO. "At the same time, the massive amount of domestic battery assets already in the U.S. market represents a strategic energy resource. Our partnership with Rivian shows how EV battery packs can be turned into dispatchable energy resources, bringing new capacity online quickly, supporting critical manufacturing, and reducing strain on the grid without waiting years for new infrastructure. This is a scalable model for how we add meaningful energy capacity in the near term."

EV batteries are often the longest-lived part of the vehicle itself, designed to last many hundreds of thousands of miles and, in many cases, to remain healthy even when the vehicle is retired, they are extremely valuable as stationary energy storage devices.

Stationary energy storage technologies play a key role in reducing cost and increasing stability both for the customer and the grid at large. For example, during periods of peak demand like heat waves, Rivian can instantly deploy energy stored in its second-life batteries to offset increased strain on the grid, avoiding having to purchase more expensive electricity while also avoiding additional load on the power system.

Redwood's deep expertise in battery systems and power integration positions the company to capture a massive domestic supply of energy storage that is already accumulating. By transitioning these packs into stationary assets before recycling them, we can extend their useful life, decrease reliance on imported energy storage, and defer billions of dollars in costly infrastructure upgrades.

Rivian | www.rivian.com

Redwood Materials | www.redwoodmaterials.com

A solar-plus-battery storage project developed and financed by Sunrock Distributed Generation is now in operation at the County Jail in Salinas, Monterey County. The system locks in long-term energy and financial savings while strengthening local grid reliability. Funded through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), it is expected to save the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, which operates the jail, more than $12 million over its lifetime—with zero upfront cost. 

The installation includes a 1.243 MW carport solar array paired with a 1.043 MW / 2.087 MWh Tesla battery system and is expected to generate more than 2,000 MWh of clean electricity annually. This will offset approximately 55% of the County Jail’s annual energy use and reduce carbon emissions by around 1,000 metric tons per year.  

The system at the County Jail was designed using LFP battery technology, which is widely recognized for its lower risk of thermal runaway compared to other battery types.

The project is the result of a long-term partnership between the County of Monterey and Mynt Systems, Inc., a Santa Cruz–based renewable energy development, engineering, and construction company. Mynt Systems partnered with Sunrock Distributed Generation to co-develop the system and provide financing through a PPA. 

“The completion of this renewable energy project is a major achievement for the County of Monterey to lead the transition to a more sustainable future. Thanks to the Power Purchase Agreement, the Sheriff’s Office is expected to save over $12 million without spending funds on capital costs,” says Cora Panturad, Sustainability Program Manager for the County of Monterey. 

The installation received Permission to Operate in December 2025 following a multi-year development process that navigated major shifts in federal energy policy, including changes to investment tax credit eligibility, domestic content requirements, and foreign entity of concern rules, as well as rapidly evolving building codes and safety standards for battery energy storage systems. 

In January 2025, a fire involving nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries at the nearby Moss Landing energy storage facility heightened industry and public scrutiny of battery safety. In response, the system at the County Jail was designed using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology, which is widely recognized for its lower risk of thermal runaway compared to other battery types. Project partners worked closely with the County of Monterey’s Health and Safety Division and Emergency Preparedness teams to ensure a conservative, safety-first approach appropriate for a correctional facility. 

The solar carport is projected to offset 55% of the County Jail’s energy use, reducing annual carbon emissions by 1000 metric tons

“Bringing this project online shows what’s possible when strong public partners work with experienced developers and long-term capital,” says Rob Hymes, Chief Development Officer at Mynt Systems. “This system was designed with safety at its core and is projected to deliver millions of dollars in savings that can be reinvested into sustainability and community resilience.” 

“The successful completion of this project demonstrates how disciplined project finance can deliver sustainable infrastructure certainty even amid major policy change,” says Wilson Chang, CEO and Co-Founder of Sunrock Distributed Generation. “We are proud to have worked with the Mynt team and our partners to co-develop and build a bankable solar-plus-storage asset that provides the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office with energy savings, predictable costs, enhanced resilience, and a safety-first storage solution.”  

Mynt Systems I www.myntsystems.com

Sunrock Distributed Generation | www.sunrockdg.com