- Arkansas Unveils Largest Solar Project in the State
Earlier this year, celebrations were taking place in Stuttgart, Arkansas to cheer on the commissioning of Arkansas’ largest universal solar energy project. NextEra Energy and Entergy Arkansas have joined forces to create the ‘Stuttgart Solar Energy Center.’ After eight months of construction, the center now spans 475 acres. The project created hundreds of construction jobs and used goods and services from local vendors. With 350,000 PV panels at work daily, the sun’s energy will be converted into electricity to power more than 13,000 homes. In addition, over its operational life, the center is expected to generate nearly $8 million in addition revenue, with much of the funding going to help Arkansas County Public Schools. Talk about giving back!
- Net Metering Rate Change on the Horizon for Arkansas
The filing period for Act 827 of 2015 came to a close in March. The Act orders a revision of the 1-to-1 net metering ration. This means that utilities would now be able to purchase the excess generation at a wholesale price. There is much debate as to the effect of this bill as some worry that the move would discourage individuals from investing in solar.