According to a recent report from the US Energy Information Administration, though 2024 saw record-setting levels of energy consumption, demand isn’t slowing down anytime soon. This comes less than six months after a separate reportestimated the US grid would need to increase its capacity to generate and deliver electricity by 16 percent in the next four years to keep pace with growing energy needs. Simply put, the count....
In an era marked by increasingly severe weather from Mother Nature, utilities face mounting pressure to enhance the resiliency and reliability of their power delivery systems. While icing of the wind turbine blades has been discussed extensively, the physical means of distributing that energy has been addressed far less. Just as wind farms components are adopting the latest technologies to modernize their fleets and extend life expectan....
Ensuring the reliability and efficiency of wind turbines requires a deep understanding of the fluids that keep them running smoothly. To that end, compatibility testing plays a critical role in preventing costly issues that arise from mixing incompatible lubricants. This article explores the significance of fluid compatibility testing in industries such as power generation, highlighting its ability to enhance equipment reliability, reduce mainten....
The wind industry takes pride in advancing a clean energy future while protecting species across the globe from the impacts of climate change. However, no energy solution is without challenges. Wind turbines, for instance, have been shown to cause direct mortality to bats. With bat populations already declining due to habitat loss, diminishing food sources, and disease, the wind industry has diligently sought solutions to mitigate this impact.&nb....
Energy Storage
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Steve Macshane, CESSWI
Weidmuller USA, a leading provider of smart industrial connectivity and automation products and solutions headquartered in Richmond, Va., hosted a Grand Opening of the company’s new 24,000-square-foot engineering and production facility on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The event also served as a significant highlight of the year-long celebration of Weidmuller’s milestone 50th anniversary in Richmond.
Headlining the event were several company, state and local leaders: Dr. Sebastian Durst, CEO of Weidmüller Global; Dr. Christian von Toll, Chief Sales Officer of Weidmüller Global; Randy Sadler, President & CEO of Weidmuller USA; Juan Pablo Segura, Commonwealth of Virginia Secretary of Commerce & Trade; and Jessica Schneider, Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors.
After the welcome ceremony, a tour of the new facility highlighted how distribution, assembly and manufacturing will focus on advances Weidmuller has made in complex assembly solutions such as the photovoltaic (PV) combiner boxes with real-time string monitoring for the solar industry and ready-to-install stainless steel enclosures that are ideally suited for challenging or hazardous environments, along with other future-forward wireless solutions shaping the way to digitalization.
“The Richmond headquarters expansion marks the start of an exciting and long-planned transition to handling more complex assembly and eventual local production of electro-industry technologies and solutions right here in Richmond, Virginia,” said Randy Sadler, President & CEO of Weidmuller USA. “To-date, we’ve invested $10 million to set up the engineering and production facility, but continued investment in more machinery, training and production will fulfill our commitment to engineer and manufacture products closer to U.S. customers. Our talented team in Richmond is fully committed to growing our customer base and increasing our U.S. footprint.”
Dr. Sebastian Durst, CEO of Weidmüller Global, added: “Innovative electrical connectivity and software-driven automation continue to transform industrial production, including clean energy industries. Weidmuller USA is well-positioned to be a leading supplier of IIoT solutions for a wide array of industries throughout the U.S. and North America. We would like to thank the company’s Supervisory Board, the Weidmuller Executive Board and the Joachim Herz Foundation, along with state, county and economic development officials, customers and distributors for making the time to celebrate with us!” Founded in 1850 in Germany, Weidmüller Group is celebrating its 175th Anniversary globally.
“Virginia is laser-focused on providing transformative investments to support businesses with their goals to accelerate growth,” said Juan Pablo Segura, Secretary of Commerce and Trade for the Commonwealth of Virginia. "We are proud that this global leader in smart industrial connectivity and automation has expanded its operations right here in Chesterfield County. For 50 years, Weidmuller has been a valued partner in advancing our mission to make Virginia the best state for business in the U.S. and a hub for groundbreaking technological innovations - many of which will be developed in this new engineering and production facility."
“On behalf of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors, we congratulate Weidmuller USA on the completion and opening of this advanced manufacturing expansion at their headquarters office in Chesterfield County, where they have been located for a half century,” said Jim Ingle, Chair of the county’s Board of Supervisors. “This next-generation engineering and production facility enables the company to create meaningful jobs and represents an exciting new chapter of growth for Weidmuller USA and the Chesterfield community at large.”
The new facility was designed to reduce the company’s carbon footprint through features including solar panels, high efficiency HVAC and recycled materials. A native habitat garden accentuates the natural landscape beside the building and creates a relaxing and sustainable space for employees to enjoy at lunch or on breaks.
“For 50 years and counting, Richmond has proven to be an ideal location for our continued growth, thanks to support from the state government and economic development organizations, Chesterfield County and the entire community,” said Sadler. “As we celebrate the opening of our new production facility and all the milestones for Weidmuller USA and the Weidmüller Group in 2025, we look forward to building on our shared legacy of innovating and delivering end-to-end solutions in smart industrial connectivity and automation.”
Weidmuller USA | www.weidmuller.com
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) announced the addition of five manufacturing member companies and two associate member companies — reflecting continued momentum in the organization’s efforts enhance our nation’s critical infrastructure to support a secure, reliable future grid.
NEMA’s ongoing growth reflects the essential role its more than 300 members play in powering a modern, secure, and increasingly electrified economy. These new members span a range of technologies and services that are vital to strengthening the U.S. electrical manufacturing sector.
NEMA’s new manufacturing member companies are:
NEMA’s new associate member companies are:
“NEMA’s newest members bring fresh energy and expertise to the table during a critical time for the industry,” said Debra Phillips, President and CEO, NEMA. “At a time of increasing energy demand, we are shaping the electric future by modernizing infrastructure, advancing innovation, and building the technologies and solutions that will meet the moment.”
“The current growth in EV sales continues to underscore the need for ubiquitous, reliable charging infrastructure,” said Rick Wilmer, CEO, ChargePoint. “Together with NEMA, ChargePoint is accelerating the development of innovative EV charging hardware and software solutions.”
“Hyper was built to challenge the status quo and redefine how critical infrastructure is engineered, manufactured, and delivered in the digital age. We are proof that American manufacturing can rise to meet the demands of a software-defined, AI-driven future,” said Vladimir Gulkarov, CEO, Hyper Solutions, Inc. “This is the start of a new chapter, not just for Hyper, but for the future of American industry itself. As a disruptor reshaping how infrastructure gets built, we’re proud to join NEMA, not to follow, but to help set the pace. Together with the legacy leaders of our sector, we’re committed to shaping the standards and partnerships that will define the next generation of critical infrastructure.”
“We’re proud to join NEMA as a U.S.-based manufacturer dedicated to advancing the future of electrification. At Larsen Manufacturing, we understand the vital role of domestic production in strengthening the nation’s energy and transportation infrastructure,” said Dave Larsen, President, Larsen Manufacturing. “As we expand our capabilities in the mobility and grid sectors, NEMA’s policy leadership, technical standards, and collaborative network will be invaluable in helping us deliver high-quality, American-made solutions for a more connected and resilient future.”
"One of our partners suggested we consider joining NEMA and initially we assumed that was only for the large OEMs. However, we quickly learned about the extensive network of companies who participate, large and small. We are a mid-size manufacturer and engineering company, so for us to gain trusted access for market intel and supply chain insights will be a big maturation step," said Todd Simmering, Senior Vice President, W-Industries Electrification Division. "We look forward to collaborating with our electrification peers and NEMA to accelerate the U.S. power and electrical industry. We all need to innovate fast to meet demand, and industry collectives like this are a perfect catalyst."
National Electrical Manufacturers Association | www.makeitelectric.org
Nautilus Solar Energy, LLC (“Nautilus”) and TurningPoint Energy (“TPE”) celebrated their collaboration on a new 4.7-megawatt direct current (MWdc) solar farm in Georgetown, Delaware on June 10, 2025, with a ribbon cutting event at the project site. The array is made up of nearly 9,000 solar modules and is part of a six-project, 30MWdc portfolio that has been developed by TPE and being built and operated by Nautilus. Distinguished guests, as well as executives from Nautilus and TPE, joined community members to mark the completion of the project.
Construction was completed in early 2025 and is expected to begin delivering clean, renewable energy to customers within the Delmarva Power service territory in the next few months. This project is part of Delaware’s Community Energy Facility Program that officially launched in April 2022 and signed into law via Senate Bill 2 (SB 2). This bill increased project size limits to 4 MWac and requires at least 15% of each project’s capacity to serve low-income customers.
“The opening of this community solar farm represents Nautilus’s entrance in Delaware and our continued expansion of community solar across the United States,” said Eric LaMora, Vice President of Community Solar at Nautilus. “TPE is a valued partner with Nautilus in our mission to make clean, affordable energy available to everyone, including low-income households and small businesses.”
“Today, we celebrate a milestone in our clean energy journey in Delaware — with the inaugural project that is part of Delaware’s Community Energy Facility Program. This will be the first project to reach commercial operation as part of our $100M commitment to invest in the First State,” said Salar Naini, President of TPE.
This solar project will provide electric bill savings to residents, and other organizations that subscribe as part of the Community Energy Facility Program. Over its lifetime, this project is expected to generate approximately eight million kilowatt-hours annually, contributing to Delaware’s goal of sourcing 40% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2035.
"The use of solar and other renewable forms of energy is essential to protecting our life-sustaining natural world and its resources," said Sen. Stephanie Hansen. "We know that rising energy costs have been a major financial burden for countless Delaware families. Investing in additional, diverse, clean energy sources are not only a win for the environment, but a win in our ongoing effort to lower costs for our constituents and provide energy reliability."
One of the local groups benefiting from the solar project is Springboard Delaware, a non-profit founded in 2020 to create innovative, affordable housing solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and promote long-term stability, health equity and upward mobility. Judson Malone, Co-Founder and Executive Director, said, “At Springboard Delaware, we believe housing stability and environmental sustainability go hand-in-hand. Being a beneficiary of this community solar project means we can lower our energy costs while advancing our mission to create safe, dignified housing for our most vulnerable neighbors. We’re proud to be part of a project that reflects both economic and environmental justice.”
TPE and its partners are committed to making meaningful charitable community investments in every community where their solar projects are developed, including contributions to organizations like Springboard Delaware. These investments are designed to create lasting social value by supporting local nonprofits, educational initiatives and essential services. As part of this commitment, TPE has already contributed $100,000 toward its pledged $120,000 in community donations for this portfolio. With Nautilus matching the pledge, the total planned community investment will reach $240,000 upon completion of the portfolio’s construction.
Nautilus Solar Energy | nautilussolar.com
TurningPoint Energy | turningpoint-energy.com
Avangrid, Inc., a leading energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group, announced that it has achieved commercial operations at its Camino Solar project in Kern County, California. The 57 MWdc (44 MWac) project, Avangrid’s seventh energy facility in California, is currently providing power to approximately 14,000 homes. Camino represents new domestic energy capacity and is helping to meeting surging electricity demand. According to a recent U.S. National Power Demand Study by S&P Global, energy demand in the U.S. could rise by as much as 50% by 2040, driven largely by new data centers.
“The successful completion of Camino Solar marks another important milestone in Avangrid’s commitment to creating long-term value for communities through job creation and economic growth, and by delivering energy solutions that meet America’s growing energy needs,” said Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra. “New energy generation projects like Camino are helping to meet rising energy needs, improve the reliability of regional electric grids, and deliver sustained economic growth.
The construction of the project, which consists of 105,000 solar panels, supported approximately 100 construction jobs, nearly all filled with local union workers.
"LiUNA! Local 220 worked closely with Avangrid and its contractors on this project and we are happy to see that it is complete," said Hertz Ramirez, Business Manager for Local 220. "This effort brought meaningful, union careers to local Apprentices and Journeymen right here in Kern County, offering not just great wages, but strong benefits like healthcare, vacation pay, pension and an annuity."
“The completion of Avangrid’s Camino Solar project marks a proud moment for our union,” said Brian Holt, Business Manager and Financial Secretary of IBEW Local 428. “Our members brought skill, commitment, and craftsmanship to every stage of the project. This facility isn’t just generating reliable energy—it’s generating good jobs, strong benefits, and meaningful career paths for people in our community. Projects like this help power a more sustainable future, both environmentally and economically.”
Camino is expected to generate about $15 million in state and local tax revenue during its lifetime, helping to fund a variety of public services, especially education. It will also pay about $150,000 in annual lease payments to project landowners. Camino was built partially on public lands managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
Avangrid now has seven energy projects in California ranging from San Diego County to the Bay Area and a combined capacity of about 600 MW. This is enough generating capacity to power about 150,000 U.S homes annually. The company employs 44 people in the state. Avangrid’s California facilities contributed over $7.5 million in state and local taxes last year which support a variety of public services. Additionally, the company’s projects paid nearly $6 million in lease payments to participating landowners in California last year, representing supplementary income for the community.
Avangrid | http://www.avangrid.com
Waaree Solar Americas Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Waaree Energies Limited, India's largest solar PV module manufacturer, has announced a landmark 599 MW solar module supply agreement with a leading U.S.-based independent power producer. This strategic deal reinforces Waaree's growing footprint and proven reliability in the rapidly expanding American solar market.
The modules will be produced at Waaree's advanced manufacturing facility in Brookshire, Texas, and are scheduled for delivery in the 2026 calendar year.
"This agreement is a strong testament to Waaree's commitment to developing a robust, U.S.-based clean energy ecosystem," said Sunil Rathi, President of Waaree Solar Americas. "Our Brookshire facility is uniquely positioned to meet rising demand with high-quality, American-made modules, helping our partners deliver on ambitious energy targets while creating jobs and ensuring supply security."
He further added: "This partnership reflects our shared vision to accelerate America's energy transition through dependable, high-performance solar technology. Backed by decades of manufacturing excellence in India, we're proud to support our U.S. partners with scalable solutions tailored to this evolving market."
With over 1.2 GW in new orders secured in Q1 of FY25-26, Waaree is experiencing strong commercial momentum in the United States, fueled by rising demand from AI-driven data center expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and industrial electrification.
To support this growing demand, Waaree Energies Limited is establishing an additional 1.6 GW solar module manufacturing unit at its Brookshire facility, bringing its total U.S. production capacity to 3.2 GW before end of 2025. This expansion reflects Waaree's long-term commitment to strengthening domestic solar manufacturing and will enhance Waaree's ability to serve utility-scale & C&I, solar projects with greater speed, reliability, and local content alignment.
Waaree Solar Americas I https://waaree.com/usa/
DESRI announced that the Catclaw Solar and Storage project (Catclaw, or the Project) has achieved financial notice to proceed (FNTP) and commenced construction. Catclaw is a 205 megawatt (MWac) solar facility with a 1,000 megawatt-hour (MWh) storage system, located in Buckeye, Arizona. DESRI purchased the Project from Avantus in 2024 and gathered with stakeholders on April 29, 2025 to celebrate its groundbreaking.
"The DESRI team is thrilled that Catclaw has begun construction and will commence operations in 2026," said Bob Schoenherr, Chief Strategy Officer of DESRI. "DESRI currently owns 131 MWac of operating renewable energy assets and 160 MWac of solar assets under construction in Arizona; Catclaw is our first project with Arizona Public Service (APS). Given skyrocketing demand for new energy and capacity resources across the state, our team is happy to pair reliable and cost-effective resources with this need. We appreciate Avantus's work on the Project's development and look forward to an efficient build."
"Catclaw will help power Arizona's growing energy needs with clean, reliable electricity—especially during times of peak demand," said Cliff Graham, CEO of Avantus. "This milestone is the result of strong collaboration with the City of Buckeye, local partners, DESRI, and APS, and builds on the groundwork Avantus has laid to accelerate clean energy in the region. Together, we're creating local jobs and strengthening the grid with affordable, resilient energy for Arizona communities."
Catclaw has a 20-year power purchase agreement with APS. The facility is expected to generate enough clean energy to power approximately 40,000 Arizona homes each year.
Financing for the construction of the Project was provided by BNP Paribas and Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale (NORD/LB) as Coordinating Lead Arrangers; Korea Development Bank, Bank of China, and Westpac Banking Corporation as Joint Lead Arrangers; Comerica Bank as Mandated Lead Arranger; Flagstar Bank as Senior Managing Agent; and Crédit Industriel et Commercial as Participant. Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas acted as the Administrative Agent.
"APS has a track record of providing top tier, reliable service to Arizona homes and businesses, and we thoughtfully invest in and secure diverse resources that can help us continue to deliver the energy our customers count on," said Derek Seaman, APS Director of Resource Acquisition. "The Catclaw Solar and Storage project will provide our customers with the benefits of reliable, cost-competitive electricity sourced directly from clean energy technologies."
"Buckeye's collaboration with the DESRI team was unprecedented," said Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn. "We worked together to design this project so it seamlessly integrated with the surrounding environment, while ensuring Buckeye and the entire West Valley remain sustainable."
RES will serve as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor, with EPC Services Company as the high-voltage EPC. Tesla will provide battery storage equipment for the Project. Invenergy Services will provide ongoing operations and maintenance services once the facility is operational.
DESRI | https://desri.com/
DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE), Michigan's largest producer of and investor in renewable energy, announced at a ribbon-cutting ceremony that it has completed construction on its Polaris Solar Park. Located in Washington and North Star Townships in Gratiot County, the 100-megawatt solar park will generate enough clean energy to power more than 23,000 homes when it comes online this summer.
"DTE is committed to growing our portfolio of clean, Michigan-made renewable energy as part of our broader generation mix to support the evolving energy needs of our customers," said Matt Paul, president and chief operating officer, DTE Electric. "This continues to be the most active period of renewable energy development in DTE's history, which also enables us to partner with local communities to help drive economic development and improve the lives of residents in towns across Michigan."
Since 2009, DTE's investments in renewable energy have created an estimated 20,000 jobs in Michigan. Polaris Solar will bring Gratiot County, Washington Township and North Star Township significant added tax revenue over the life of the project, which can be used by the local communities and county for roads, first responders, libraries and other vital community services. This is in addition to the $42 million in tax revenue driven by DTE's three existing wind parks in Gratiot County.
"Polaris Solar is a significant investment in Gratiot County, a project that will benefit police departments, county parks, and local government entities throughout our local communities," said Jim Wheeler, President of Greater Gratiot Development, a non-profit organization that promotes economic activity in Gratiot County. "Where some counties are looking at cutbacks, we haven't had to do that. Here, renewable energy helps improve the overall quality of life for the county and the people who live in it."
Polaris Solar is DTE's third new solar park connecting to the electric grid in 2025, with five additional parks under construction and funded through DTE's voluntary CleanVision MIGreenPower, Michigan's largest community solar program. Customer enrollments in MIGreenPower are also helping to fuel DTE's progress toward its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions and reaching Michigan's renewable energy standard of 60% by 2035.
In 2025, DTE will generate enough clean energy from wind and solar projects to power more than 800,000 homes in Michigan and plans to power the equivalent of nearly 6 million homes with renewable energy by 2042. The company's MIGreenPower program has enrolled nearly 100,000 residential and 1,200 business customers.
DTE Energy | dteenergy.com
Energy Storage Jun 11, 2025
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