There are few, if any laws in most jurisdictions about solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), including the sale of SRECs by third party marketers. There is no national registry of RECs issued. This law firm has given opinions on RECs transactions that RECs are properly accounted for and no double counting has taken place, but it is the Wild West out there.… Continue Reading
Last week the U.S. Department of the Interior issued the long awaited final regulation permitting "the take [injure, kill or otherwise disturb] of bald eagles and golden eagles" for wind energy projects. ... What is clear from all of this is that developers of energy projects, renewable and otherwise, and even energy projects not currently subject to avian regulation, need to consider and evaluate applying for take permits.… Continue Reading
In a hugely important judicial decision advancing onsite renewable energy, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania has found ground mounted solar photovoltaics to be an "accessory use" permitted as of right in all zoning districts.… Continue Reading
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is soliciting comments on the issuance of a take permit "for recurring eagle mortalities" .. It has been suggested that comments should be submitted on the double standard of issuing permits for killing bald eagles with wind turbines while charging .. power companies for electrocuting birds on power lines.… Continue Reading
As green building becomes more popular, new green building regulations continue to pop up in U.S. cities. The Aspen Daily News recently highlighted proposed changes to the Aspen Commercial Building Codes that will incorporate very progressive green building strategies. Among the green building strategies, the proposed codes will “require either a photovoltaic solar panel system [solar … Continue Reading