Protecting Our Grid Lines

As a global leader in whole-home energy management solutions, FranklinWH is proud to report that the company has reached over 3,000 certified installers across the United States. The company's rapid growth demonstrates its successful fit with installer needs and homeowner requirements for advanced energy solutions.

With the addition of these certified installers in every major region of the U.S., FranklinWH is broadening its reach, bringing energy freedom to homes with convenient, high-performance technology and an unstoppable passion for professional service.

The company continues to expand through its new certified base installer presence in major national regions, enabling homeowners to access convenient high-performance technology while receiving unparalleled support from FranklinWH's team.

"Reaching the milestone of having 3,000 certified installation partners demonstrates both the trust installers have in our technology platform and our team's commitment to help them succeed," according to Chief Commercial Officer Vincent Ambrose of FranklinWH. "By achieving this goal, our team has created more than a network; we have built a movement toward smarter energy management through the help of like-minded professional experts who support and share in our vision for the future."

FranklinWH trains its installers through an extensive certification program that delivers complete technical knowledge and effective training for efficient and confident system installations. The company's streamlined onboarding process includes hands-on assistance and ongoing tools that help installers stay up to date in their trade and provide outstanding service quality to customers.

"The mission to make energy freedom accessible depends on certified installers who form the essential foundation of this goal," according to Gary Lam, who serves as Co-founder and CEO of FranklinWH. "Our partnership with thousands of skilled professionals enables extensive reach expansion and improved installation quality, along with enhanced homeowner experiences."

FranklinWH's expanding success joins a broader trend toward energy self-sufficiency and eco-friendly lifestyles by focusing on connecting renewable power sources to residential energy optimization systems.

FranklinWH Energy Storage | www.franklinwh.com 

The Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA)—a national trade association representing over 125 community solar developers, businesses and nonprofits—will host its second annual Community Solar Innovation Summit from June 25–27 at the Westin Hotel in Westminster, Colorado, just minutes from downtown Denver. The event brings together industry leaders, policymakers and advocates to shape the future of clean, local energy and accelerate the deployment of distributed energy across the United States.

Last year, CCSA and its members launched the inaugural Community Solar Innovation Summit, the organization’s first self-hosted conference, welcoming more than 500 attendees.

The only conference created by and for the community solar and distributed energy industry, the Community Solar Innovation Summit brings together experts from across the sector to drive innovation, policy and market growth. All of the revenue generated during the Summit is reinvested back into the expansion of community solar, distributed solar and energy storage, supporting advocacy efforts that protect and grow solar markets across the U.S. and create more opportunities for clean, local energy.

“Community solar is among the fastest growing solar markets in the United States,” said Jeff Cramer, CEO of CCSA. “In 2024, community solar capacity increased 35% from the year prior to 8.6 GW of total national capacity, enough electricity to power more than 7.5 million homes for an entire year. We’re excited to build upon this momentum and the groundwork established during last year’s inaugural Community Solar Innovation Summit as we continue to pursue our mission of providing solar access for all.”

Among the more than 50 industry expert speakers and panelists will be Georgia State Representative Beth Camp, and Keith Martin, co-head of projects for Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP, a global law firm that counts energy, infrastructure and resources among its specialties. 

Camp in February led a bipartisan group of legislators in Georgia to introduce legislation to expand community solar across the state called the Georgia Homegrown Solar Act of 2025. She serves as chair of the House Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications Ad Hoc Committee on Community Solar.

Focused on transactional law, Martin’s principal areas of practice are tax and project finance. Recognized as a preeminent authority on tax structurings in the U.S., he lobbies Congress and the Treasury Department on policy issues and is ranked among the country’s top renewable energy lawyers.

A complete list of speakers and panelists for the 2025 summit can be found by visiting www.communitysolar.events/event/annualsummit/speakers.

Through CCSA’s robust agenda, attendees will hear the latest on market and policy trends from community solar experts and thought leaders who are expanding markets across the country, participate in in-depth discussions on key topics shaping the future of community and distributed solar and connect with and explore the latest innovations by our exhibitors.

Panelists will address best practices in interconnection, siting and permitting, customer management, consumer protection and access and inclusion processes for low-to-moderate income customers, as well as Solar for All program rollouts.

In addition to the event’s educational sessions and exhibition space, the summit will provide networking opportunities for attendees and exhibitors, including a members-only pre-Summit gathering and a full-conference reception on the first day of the Summit.

“The Community Solar Innovation Summit aims to be the industry’s leading community solar conference, offering expert insights on market trends, policies and best practices from community solar leaders and experts,” added Cramer. “We’re excited for the second annual event and the opportunity to showcase transformative solutions and emerging technologies and innovations in community solar as we focus on growth and expanding access.”

For more information or to register, visit www.communitysolar.events/event/annualsummit/home.

CCSA | www.communitysolaraccess.org 

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) unanimouslyfound injury, and voted in favor of The American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee, in its antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations concerning crystalline silicon photovoltaic (CSPV) cells and modules imported from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.  

“Today’s vote leaves no doubt: These Chinese-headquartered companies have been violating trade laws by overwhelming the U.S. market with unfairly cheap, dumped and subsidized solar panels -- and they continue to do so from third-party markets around the world, undermining U.S. industrial strategy and stunting new investment. This cannot stand.  Our growing American industry deserves – and now will have - the chance to compete fairly,” said Tim Brightbill, co-chair of Wiley’s International Trade Practiceand lead counsel to the Alliance. 

The Alliance originally filed the AD/CVD petitions on April 24, 2024, alleging unfair practices that have caused immense volatility and cost uncertainty across the U.S. domestic solar market in recent years. Today’s vote is the culmination of the year-long investigation in which the U.S. Department of Commerce and ITC sought to verify whetherthe U.S. domestic solar industry has been injured by unfair and illegal trade practices by these Chinese-headquartered companies. 

Next Steps 

The Department of Commerce will issue AD and CVD orders June 9, 2025. On June 16, 2025, the orders will be in effect, allowing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to begin collecting duties on imports from these companies at the point of entry. With the publication of the final orders, the duty rates applied will be updated to reflect the rates calculated in the final determination.  

The investigations were initiated in response to petitions filed on April 24, 2024, by the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee—a coalition of U.S. solar manufacturers including Convalt Energy, First Solar, Meyer Burger, Mission Solar, Qcells, REC Silicon, Swift Solar, and Talon PV. The coalition, represented by Wiley Rein LLP, sought relief from unfair trade practices that have undermined the U.S. solar manufacturing sector.    

More information on the investigations and final determinations from the U.S. Department of Commerce can be found on its website. COMMERCE FACT SHEET: Final Affirmative Determinations in the Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations of Crystalline Photovoltaic Cells Whether or Not Assembled into Modules from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam 

American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee | http://americansolartradecmte.org/

BLUETTI, a leading innovator in portable power and clean energy solutions, announces the launch of its versatile Apex 300 Portable Power Station on Indiegogo, offering a reliable balance between emergency home backup and portable power solutions for RV travel, off-grid living and beyond.

A Versatile Power Station Built to Adapt

The Apex 300 features a plug-and-play setup with 2,764.8Wh of storage capacity and a 3,840W output with versatile 120V/240V dual voltage. Designed for scalability, this modular system allows up to three units to run in parallel, tripling the total output to 11,520W and capacity up to 58,000Wh with 18 B300K expansion batteries.

As the first-ever portable power station to support up to 50A/12,000W bypass capability, a true 0ms UPS, and an ultra-low 20W AC idle drain, the Apex 300 adapts effortlessly to both standalone use and integrated energy ecosystems. Whether users need reliable backup during grid outages or consistent energy for travel or off-grid life, the Apex 300 adapts to the moment.

Industry Firsts: 12,000W Bypass, 0ms UPS

Breaking new ground with its 50A/12,000W bypass capability, the Apex 300 delivers such powerful output that it can even charge a Tesla EV—a rare feat in the class of portable power stations. With its versatile 120V/240V dual-voltage output and simultaneous charge/discharge capability across both voltages, the Apex 300 ensures continuous power for 99% of heavy-duty appliances.

Powered by BLUEGrid Tech System, the Apex 300's true 0ms UPS switchover, alongside its ultra-high bypass load capacity, provides unparalleled protection against power outages. This instant transition ensures the continuous operation of critical devices, from high-wattage refrigerators and CPAP machines to sensitive NAS storage, Wi-Fi routers, and even life-sustaining equipment like aquarium oxygen pumps, preventing data loss, health risks, and even the loss of cherished aquatic life.

A Smart Saver: 20W Idle Drain, 2-Year Savings Sprint

The ultra-low 20W AC idle drain places it among the most efficient systems in its class—extending refrigerator runtime by up to 24 hours, prolonging AC standby by 2.5 times, and increasing CPAP usage by 2.5 times.

When connected with the SolarX 4K Solar Charge Controller—the world's first 500V/4,000W PV voltage regulator, the Apex 300 achieves the fastest 2-year payback, making it as a highly cost-effective solar power solution for off-grid cabins and regions like Texas and Florida, where energy independence and long-term savings are a priority. For even smarter savings, the Apex 300 supports Time-of-Use utility plans through Peak Load Shifting via the BLUETTI App. It intelligently charges using solar energy or off-peak grid power, then powers home during expensive peak hours—helping reduce electricity bills with no extra effort.

A Solar Titan: 30,720W Solar Input, Versatile Charging

With a massive 30,720W solar input when using three units in parallel, the Apex 300 becomes the world's largest solar-powered micro energy storage system—especially when paired with BLUETTI's smart ecosystem components, including the AT1 Smart Distribution Box, Hub A1 Parallel Box, and Solar X 4K Charge Controller.

The system is seamlessly compatible with most existing solar panels and rooftop solar inverter systems, offering up to 126 charging options. With the BLUETTI TurboBoost™ Tech, each Apex 300 supports 2,400W solar input with dual MPPT controllers, reaching 80% in just 40 minutes. For faster indoor recharging, AC input powers the Apex 300 to 100% in just 65 minutes.

An Autopilot in Energy: Fully Automatic Whole-Home Backup

Paired with the AT1 Smart Distribution Box, the Apex 300 transforms into a fully automated whole-home backup system. Homeowners can prioritize essential circuits and manage power simply via the intuitive BLUETTI App.

Activate Extreme Weather Alert Mode in the app, and the system will automatically top up using grid and solar power ahead of extreme weather events. During extended blackouts from hurricanes or storms, the AT1's Black Start feature allows the Apex 300 to automatically recharge from an automatic standby generator when its battery is low. Once the outage ends, the system seamlessly returns to normal operation, ensuring uninterrupted power for daily life. The real-time OTA updates also keep the system continuously optimized with the latest features. 

Key members of the BLUETTI ecosystem also include the Reliance Sub Panel, acting as a transfer switch for instant UPS switchover for reliable partial home backup. Meanwhile, the S1 Smart Plug offers smooth appliance control, letting users turn devices on/off or set schedules directly from smartphones.

A Multi-Tasker with Multiple Ports

Equipped with six AC outlets, the Apex 300 stands out with built-in NEMA TT-30R and NEMA 14-50R output ports—features rarely found on a single battery system. For homeowners, Apex 300 offers reliable standalone backup power, with options to directly connect to a home inlet box or integrate with 120V/240V generators during power failure. For RV owners, the Apex 300 serves as a mobile shore power solution capable of charging both 30A and 50A RVs—from compact travel trailers to Class A motorhomes.

A DIY-Ready Solution with Anderson Plug

The Apex 300's flexibility gets a major boost with the DIY-friendly Hub D1. Equipped with a rugged 12V/50A Anderson port, it allows easy, secure installation—ideal for DIY enthusiasts seeking a custom power setup without the hassle of complex wiring. For RV beginners, road trippers, or anyone upgrading a off-grid cabin or tiny house, Hub D1 delivers up to 700W of DC output, easily powering essentials like 12V fridges, LED lighting, Starlink, and Wi-Fi routers, keeping life connected and comfortable, even in the wild.

For extended boondocking, overlanding, and long-haul road trips, the Charger 1 Alternator Charger captures otherwise-wasted vehicle energy, delivering up to 560W of fast on-the-go charging—6 times quicker than a cigarette lighter port.

A Life-Saver To Go: Hot-Swap Modules, 40% Higher Energy Density

Powered by BLUETTI UltraCell™ technology, the Apex 300 achieves 40% higher energy density than its peers, offering a more space-efficient portable power station that easily transitions between home backup and RV use.

Enabled by Hot-Swap Technology 2.0 and the BLUETTILIFE™ Ecosystem, the Apex 300 allows for easy removal of a module or battery pack for outdoor use, without interrupting the system that powers the home. A dedicated foldable trolley also adds flexibility, making Apex 300 a reasonable solution for moving between house and camper—maximizing the value of a backup power system.

A Longevity Leader: 17 Years of Lifespan with Safer Cells

Built on the success of the Elite 200 V2 Solar Generator, the Apex 300 takes a leap forward with 2nd-gen automotive-grade LiFePO₄ cells and 33 CNAS-certified tests— raising the bar for battery safety and durability. The Apex 300 delivers 6,000 charge cycles while retaining at least 80% capacity. This translates to up to 17 years of daily operation—double the lifespan of many competing solutions. The extended lifespan helps minimize battery waste and enhances long-term safety—aligning with BLUETTI's commitment to sustainable, user-focused energy solutions.

"At BLUETTI, we share in the everyday challenges and dreams of our community. We feel the same urgency for dependable energy—whether it's securing reliable home backup during storms or powering peaceful, off-grid moments under open skies," stated James Ray, BLUETTI spokesperson. "We've always listened to the people who power our mission and share our ESG values. The Apex 300 is shaped by the voices of over 3.5 million users and builds on the legacy of our AC300 and AC500. It's more than just an energy solution—whether you're looking for a whole-home backup or plug-and-play solution, the Apex 300 is the power guardian for a simpler, safer, and smarter sustainable lifestyle."

Price & Availability

The Apex 300 Solar Generator debuts on May 20, exclusively on Indiegogo until July 19, after which related benefits will no longer be available. Early supporter pricing is structured in multiple tiers, including Super Early Bird and Early Bird, each with limited quantities.

The current Super Early Bird pricing, available in limited quantities, offers the Apex 300 at $1,199 ($0.43/kWh) and the Apex 300 + B300K bundle at $1,999 ($0.36/kWh) including tax and shipping. Once this tier sells out, the campaign will automatically shift to the next pricing level—the Early Bird. All tiers support 0% interest installment plans. Shipping will begin according to the project timeline, with the earliest deliveries expected in mid-June. While broader retail availability is scheduled to follow after the campaign ends, Indiegogo supporters and pre-order customers will receive early access to the first production units at favorable early-backer pricing. Customers who placed a deposit between April 16 and May 20 are eligible for VIP Deposit Pricing and the associated benefits as promised.

BLUETTI | https://www.bluettipower.com/

kWh Analytics, the leading provider of Climate Insurance and risk management solutions for renewable energy, announced the appointment of Amy Nauiokas, Founder and Group CEO of Anthemis Group, to its Board of Directors.

Nauiokas brings unparalleled experience in financial technology and transformation to kWh Analytics at a pivotal moment in the company's growth trajectory. As the founder of Anthemis, she has helped build the firm into a global fintech investment platform that has supported more than 250 companies through various stages of development. Under her leadership, Anthemis has become the industry-leading venture capital firm credited as the first to focus specifically on the multi-trillion dollar fintech industry.

"We are thrilled to welcome Amy to our board," said Jason Kaminsky, CEO of kWh Analytics. "Her exceptional track record in capitalizing, building, and scaling innovative financial services companies aligns perfectly with our mission to expand climate insurance solutions for the renewable energy sector.”

Nauiokas is widely recognized as a strategic leader with deep experience in the insurance sector. She has served on the boards of multiple successful fintech and insurtech companies through critical growth phases, including the exit of Flo to Moen and Marqueta’s acquisition of Power. Her guidance has been pivotal in helping these companies scale and secure capital.

"The renewable energy sector stands at a critical inflection point, where innovative insurance solutions can help accelerate the world's transition to clean energy," said Nauiokas. "kWh Analytics has built a powerful platform that uses data intelligence and underwriting expertise to assess risk and reward extreme weather resilience for solar, wind, and battery projects. I'm excited to help the team grow their impact at this crucial moment in the fight against climate change."

Anthemis invested in the kWh Analytics Series A, and Nauiokas now joins the board to replace a former Anthemis partner. This transition comes as kWh Analytics continues to expand its climate insurance products for renewable energy assets.

kWh Analytics | https://www.kwhanalytics.com/

BrightSource announce the collaboration with Doral Energy on cutting-edge renewable energy management!

As part of this partnership, BrightSource’s OASES Energy Management System (EMS) will be deployed across Doral’s PV and energy storage projects to maximize efficiency, enhance grid stability, and drive profitability.

"We are proud to work alongside Doral Energy, a leader in the renewable energy sector, to develop smarter and more sustainable energy solutions," said Izik Kirshenbaum, CEO of BrightSource. "Doral’s trust in our OASES EMS underscores our commitment to innovation in clean energy management, and we look forward to expanding this partnership with more groundbreaking projects in the future."

Yaki Noyman, CEO of Doral Energy, added: "At Doral, we are constantly seeking innovative solutions that align with our vision of advancing clean energy management. BrightSource’s EMS technology provides the tools we need to optimize storage and generation while maintaining grid reliability. We are eager to see the positive impact of this collaboration on our projects and the industry as a whole."

This partnership represents a significant step forward in intelligent energy management, reinforcing both companies' commitment to driving the future of renewable energy.

BrightSource Energy | www.brightsourceenergy.com

Doral Group | doral-energy.com

Enfinity Global Inc., a leader in renewable energy, announced the successful closing of an up to €100 million bond facility to support the deployment of its energy storage and solar PV projects across Europe. The facility is being provided by Eiffel Investment Group, an independent asset manager focused on sustainable investments, through four of its investment vehicles.

This transaction marks a significant milestone, that underscores the platform's quality for investors and Enfinity's execution capabilities. It is also the company's first financing of its battery energy storage system (BESS) portfolio in Europe, where it is developing a 6.4 GW BESS pipeline—including 5.1 GW in Italy and 1.3 GW in the UK. Energy storage is a key component of Enfinity's strategy to deliver 24/7 renewable energy solutions to corporate and industrial customers while contributing to grid resilience.

"We are thankful to Eiffel Investment Group for supporting the growth of our Italian platform," said Carlos Domenech, CEO of Enfinity Global. "The future of competitive low carbon energy solutions relies on innovation of technologies and financings supported by market leaders,"  he added.

"We are proud to support Enfinity Global in its growth," said Pierre-Antoine Machelon, head of Infrastructure Funds at Eiffel Investment Group. "Building a long-term relationship while structuring a tailor-made financing is at the heart of Eiffel DNA. This transaction highlights our commitment to providing financial solutions to accelerate the decarbonization in Europe."

Enfinity Global's has currently secured  €865 million for Europe through multiple junior and senior debt agreements. The Company ranks among Italy's top 10 independent power producers (IPP) by installed capacity, with 232 MW operational, 538  MW under construction, and 805 MW of approved solar capacity. Enfinity also leads Italy's solar PPA market, having signed one-third of all the new capacity contracted in 2024[1].

"Enfinity Global continues to expand its renewable energy footprint, leveraging our expertise to accelerate the clean energy transition while delivering reliable and cost-effective solutions for the European market," commented Julio Fournier Fisas, General Manager of Enfinity Global for Europe. "We appreciate partners like Eiffel Investment Group who share our vision for the future of energy."

"We are very happy to accompany top performing companies like Enfinity," commented Jean-Charles Arrago, head of Eiffel Infrastructure debt strategy. "With this facility, we are able to accelerate the rollout of a 24/7 renewable electricity production capacity in Italy."

Enfinity Global | https://enfinity.global/

[1] Elemens Dev & Deals 2024 Report and Elemens Lookout Q1 2025.