A recent survey shows a drop in American interest in electric vehicles (EVs), while GoSun offers a portable solar charger solution. Meanwhile, renewable energy projects and corporate agreements for solar power signal continued growth despite EV interest decline.
EV Interest Declines in US, While GoSun Promotes Portable Solar Charger
A recent Pew survey reveals a decline in the number of Americans interested in purchasing electric vehicles (EVs), dropping to 29% in 2023 from 37% in 2022. Addressing concerns about running out of battery, GoSun, a solar-product company, is accepting preorders for a portable EV solar charger.
The GoSun solar charger, priced at approximately $3,000 with a $100 deposit required for reservation, is capable of delivering 1,200 watts of solar power. Weighing 70 pounds, it can be installed on a vehicle’s roof rack in about 20 minutes by two people. This device promises to extend the vehicle’s range by an average of 10-20 miles per day, depending on the weather and vehicle type. Delivery is expected in early 2025, and the company has already made over $1.8 million in presales.
Statkraft and Luminous Energy Secure PPA for UK Solar Farm
Statkraft has signed a seven-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Luminous Energy for the Bracon Ash Solar Farm in Norfolk, UK. The 28.5 MW farm will generate enough electricity to power 9,500 homes. This PPA combines a Contract for Difference (CfD) from the UK government’s CfD Allocation Round 5 and a virtual Corporate PPA with Bristol Airport. Statkraft will manage the farm’s output and pricing, offering additional security with physical hedges and its Virtual Power Plant (VPP) system to prevent generation during negative price periods.
Circle K Signs 12-Year cPPA with EDF Renewables in Ireland
Circle K has signed a 12-year Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (cPPA) with EDF Renewables Ireland to source electricity from three solar farms totaling 17 MW—Blusheens, Coolroe, and Curraghmartin. Starting in October 2024, the energy will power Circle K’s EV charging network across 44 service stations in Ireland. Circle K aims to install its branded EV chargers at 30 locations by 2025 following a €7 million investment.
Elektron Solar Project Powers Utah Ski Resorts
The Elektron Solar Project in Utah, operational since May and formally inaugurated recently, will power two of the state’s largest ski resorts. Developed in collaboration with Alterra Mountain Company, Utah State University, Vail Resorts, Salt Lake City, Park City, and Summit County, the 80 MW solar farm will supply Deer Valley with 80% of its electricity and provide 100% renewable energy for Park City Mountain Resort.
EDF Renewables Awaits Final Approval for Rich Road Solar Project
EDF Renewables is close to securing final approval from New York State’s Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES) for the 240 MW Rich Road solar project in Canton, St. Lawrence County. Though some environmental and safety concerns, including battery storage, have been raised, the project is anticipated to proceed, with continuing negotiations on road use and tax agreements.
These developments highlight ongoing efforts and innovations in renewable energy and EV infrastructure, even as interest in electric vehicles experiences a downturn.
