The Brief — Solar — 2026-08-21

TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT

Nextpower's eBOS trunk bus receives patent Nextpower's patented NX PowerMerge consolidates multiple field connections onto one device for utility-scale ground-mounted solar projects. Why it matters: Reduces DC collection system complexity and labor on larger installations, improving efficiency and lowering balance-of-systems costs.

Essential system testing every solar project needs for long-term performance Comprehensive testing from commissioning through routine maintenance identifies electrical, structural, and communication faults before they cause safety risks and revenue loss. Why it matters: Proactive testing protects your installed base, reduces emergency service calls, and ensures predictable system performance and customer satisfaction.

MARKET & POLICY

Public utilities board proposes expanding New Jersey's energy storage program New Jersey's next phase opens 150 MW of energy storage statewide, including behind-the-meter residential battery storage. Why it matters: Residential storage incentives create revenue opportunities for solar owners bundling batteries with installations.

PJM wants data centers to bring their own power. Pennsylvania's on it. Grid operator PJM proposed requiring data centers to provide their own power; Pennsylvania is implementing mechanisms to enforce this policy. Why it matters: Drives demand for on-site solar and storage solutions at data center facilities in a major regional market.

Proposed $67 billion utility merger sparks concern about rooftop solar access, bill affordability NextEra and Dominion Energy's potential merger is raising concerns among advocates over impacts on rooftop solar policies and net metering protections. Why it matters: Regulatory scrutiny of large utility mergers creates uncertainty around net metering and interconnection rules; monitor regulatory filings in affected states.