RMI Outlet’s Best of 2013

On the eve of 2014, we take a look back at RMI Outlet’s most popular blog posts from 2013. From renewables scaling in Europe, to accelerating solar adoption in the United States, to energy efficiency and electric vehicle developments, there was much to talk about.

10. As Solar PV Efficiency Climbs, Costs Likely To Drop

As solar PV technology advances, modules will continue improving their efficiency, converting greater percentages of the sun’s energy into usable electricity.

9. Is the End of EV Range Anxiety in Sight?

We highlight nine strategies—from charging solutions to roadside assistance to gas-powered loaners—helping to put EV owners at ease.

8. FHA PowerSaver Loans

The Federal Housing Administration’s PowerSaver pilot program offers 20-year, low-interest, no-money-down loans for home solar PV systems.

7. Want Solar on my Roof? Go Ahead and Pay Me For It.

Paying customers a lump sum now for anticipated future electricity cost savings of cheaper solar vs. more expensive retail electricity rates can accelerate PV adoption.

6. The Calm Before the Solar Storm

As solar installations accelerate, there’s a need for new business models that address issues on both sides of the utility meter.

5. Preparing for the Zombie Apocalypse: Are Microgrids Our Only Chance?

In the face of threats—from physical and cyber (and, ahem, zombie) attacks to climate change and severe storms—renewables-fueled microgrids offer a solution.

4. Debunking the Renewables ‘Disinformation Campaign’

We set the record straight about a pervasive pattern of misleading, incorrect information about renewables from certain media outlets.

3. Germany’s Renewables Revolution

Germany’s successful scaling of renewable energy is worth an in-depth look that pulls back the veil on its most contentious points.

2. Separating Fact from Fiction in Accounts of Germany’s Renewables Revolution

Despite its resounding success, Germany’s Energiewende has its critics. We separate fact from fiction in their claims.

1. Street Fight

The latest battleground between utilities, energy efficiency, and disruptive new technologies is LED street lighting.