Looking Ahead to 2026

A U.S. judge for Boston District Court has allowed Vineyard Wind to resume work after granting a stay against the administration’s lease suspension and construction pause issued December 22, 2025. Judge Murphy granted the stay, citing the order was “likely arbitrary and capricious”, noting that the issues raised by the government pertained to wind farm operations, not construction, and the continuation of the suspension would irreparably harm the project and its developer. The Administration referenced undisclosed “national security concerns” that arose from a recent classified Department of War study alleging that turbine structures cause interference with military radar systems.

Vineyard Wind is currently 95% complete and set to provide 800 MW of power generation to Massachusetts. The project’s supply chain stretches across 37 states and has driven more than $1.6 billion worth of investments. A steel supply chain from Massachusetts to Louisiana has bolstered vessel construction, supported turbine installation, and supplied onshore high voltage cables that are already sending 572 MW of much-needed power from the project to the Massachusetts grid. More than 30 vessels are supporting Vineyard Wind, built or retrofitted by shipyards in Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Virginia, and operated by East Coast and Gulf-based operators. According to a recent report, more than 3,700 people have worked on the project since development began, exceeding local hiring goals, with more than 70% of union labor coming from Southeastern Massachusetts.

In response, Oceantic Network has released the following statement from CEO Liz Burdock: 

“Vineyard Wind is critical to securing not only Massachusetts’ electric grid, but the regional grid serving millions of residents that depend on the continued, reliable delivery of electricity, especially during these cold winter months. Offshore wind performs well during the winter season, stabilizing rising energy costs for local communities that depend on peaker plants today for adequate supply, which forces families to pay more for the power they need. Oceantic applauds this result to get the project over the finish line to deliver reliable, affordable power and good-paying jobs to communities across the region that desperately need it.”

There are significant economic consequences associated with pausing the construction of the five U.S. projects during installation:

• Once operational, the five projects are expected to bring 8 GW of much-needed power generation online, enough for 2.5 million homes, and to help the states keep rising power costs in check.
• Stopping these projects means $30 billion of fully permitted economic activity has been paused and threatens more than $11 billion in supply chain assets that have spun up to support construction.
• Stopping these projects threatens at least 12,000 American jobs directly supporting their buildout.
• Construction of these projects has sparked more than 1,000 supply chain contracts to 675 unique American businesses across 41 states, spanning domestic shipyards, upgraded ports, and a massive resurgence in American steel. More than 24% are coming from Gulf suppliers.
• Building and maintaining these projects has initiated at least 40 new vessel orders or specialized retrofits, totaling nearly $2 billion in activity at American steel mills and shipyards.

This latest ruling follows recent industry court victories against the administration’s attempts to slow down offshore wind. Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, Empire Wind and Revolution Wind were allowed to resume work after injunction requests were granted against the administration’s lease suspension and stop construction order issued December 22, 2025. In December, a federal judge vacated the Administration’s previous permitting pause, ruling it unlawful. Sunrise Wind (924 MW) is still subject to the construction pause and lease suspension, with a hearing scheduled for February 2.

Oceantic Network | https://oceantic.org/

Yes Solar Solutions, a provider of solar energy systems, has introduced a new comprehensive Annual Maintenance Agreement complemented by an advanced customer portal. This initiative aims to streamline the management of solar installations and provide enhanced support for system owners. This offering addresses the evolving needs of the solar industry, particularly as systems age and original installation warranties expire. Roughly 684 million solar modules in the United States are approaching their end-of-warranty (EOW) period. In cases where installers close, customers are often left with "useless systems" because they cannot find companies to honor labor warranties. 

To explore the full advantages of this new maintenance agreement and gain access to the integrated customer portal, individuals are encouraged to visit Yes Solar or call 919-459-4155. Discover how this solution can optimize your solar energy experience and provide peace of mind.

Key benefits and distinguishing features of this Annual Maintenance Agreement include:

• 24/7 Monitoring Portal: Continuous access to your solar system's performance and operational status.
• Self-Service Ticket Creation: The ability to independently generate service requests.
• Priority Service Handling: Expedited response and scheduling for service calls.
• Discounts on Parts and Labor: Reduced costs for necessary repairs and component replacements.
• Monthly Production Reports: Regular summaries of your system's energy generation and performance.

"The Yes annual maintenance plan was a result of demand from solar system owners whose installers had left the market, or whose warranties had expired. This is insurance for discounted services and the proprietary portal providing peace of mind," said Stew Miller, Co-Founder and President of Yes Solar.

The Yes customer portal is a unified platform for managing all aspects of a solar energy system. Instead of navigating multiple interfaces, customers can now access information and control various components from a single point. This integration covers a range of technologies, including:

• Solar Panels: Monitor the performance and health of your photovoltaic array.
• Inverters: Track the efficiency and operational status of your power conversion units.
• Battery Backup Systems: View the charge levels and functionality of your energy storage.
• System Monitoring: Access real-time data and historical performance reports for your entire setup.

Users can easily initiate requests to add more solar panels or integrate additional battery storage. Furthermore, the portal facilitates direct creation of service tickets. The combination of the Annual Maintenance Agreement and the Yes portal offers a new way for customers to navigate a changing solar landscape.

Yes Solar Solutions | https://yessolarsolutions.com/

Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company, shared feedback from firefighters who participated in Solar and Fire Education (SAFE) training programs focused on modern solar system design and emergency response considerations. In post-training surveys, more than 98% of participating firefighters indicated they would recommend microinverter-based solar energy systems, based on their understanding of system design and safety characteristics. The survey results reflect feedback from hundreds of firefighters across multiple U.S. states who took part in hands-on SAFE trainings.

The trainings are designed to help firefighters better understand how different solar energy systems behave during emergencies. A key focus of the training is system design. By converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) at each individual panel, Enphase microinverter systems avoid the long, high-voltage DC runs commonly found in traditional centralized, or “string,” inverter designs. This all-AC architecture on the roof can reduce uncertainty for first responders and support clearer decision-making during residential incidents.

“Solar is becoming a standard feature on rooftops across the country, and firefighter training must evolve alongside it,” said Richard Birt, retired captain with Las Vegas Fire & Rescue, founder of Solar and Fire Education, and a consultant to Enphase Energy. “Our trainings are about giving firefighters real-world, practical knowledge so they can operate more confidently around energized structures. Based on my conversations with firefighters, when they understand how microinverter-based systems work – including the elimination of high-voltage DC on the roof and built-in safety features – many view them as a more straightforward option during emergency response.”

Enphase systems are also designed with panel-level integration of rapid shutdown, a safety feature required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) that reduces voltage to safer levels during emergencies. Because Enphase microinverters handle rapid shutdown at the panel level, it removes the need for additional components like optimizers or rapid shutdown transmitters that are required in DC-based string inverter systems. This can simplify installation, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with NEC regulations out of the box.

“Safety is foundational to how we design energy systems for homes and businesses, and it is inseparable from the work firefighters do every day to protect their communities,” said Marco Krapels, chief marketing officer and head of global energy markets at Enphase Energy. “Programs like SAFE help give first responders the training and confidence they need as energy systems evolve, and we are committed to supporting education and technology that can help reduce risk during emergency situations.”

To learn more about SAFE trainings, firefighter education, and the survey results, visit the website. The SAFE website also features a video with Captain Andrew Martinez of the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department, who explains why firefighters should receive updated training before interacting with modern energy systems on homes and businesses. Martinez describes how trainings help reduce uncertainty during residential incidents and notes that his department is working to incorporate these safety learnings, including consideration of microinverter-based systems that avoid long high-voltage DC runs on the roof, into its official Safety Policy and Guidelines manual.

Enphase Energy | https://enphase.com/

Arroyo Investors (“Arroyo”), a Houston-based, independent investment manager focused on power generation and energy infrastructure assets, and ONCEnergy, a newly established renewable energy platform, announce the acquisition of Whirlwind Energy Center, a 60-megawatt wind farm located in Texas.

Whirlwind Energy Center consists of 26 utility-scale wind turbines and provides clean electricity under a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Austin Energy, one of the largest publicly owned utilities in the United States, supporting the utility’s renewable energy portfolio and the broader ERCOT grid. “We are pleased to add this high-quality asset to our portfolio,” said Brandon Wax, Partner at Arroyo. “The acquisition reflects our focus on value-driven investments with strong counterparties, a solid operating track record, and clear relevance to markets with growing capacity needs. Partnering with ONCEnergy allows us to leverage deep operational expertise while expanding our investment footprint in the market.”

ONCEnergy was founded by seasoned clean energy executives who bring decades of experience across renewable investment, development, and operations. “This project exemplifies the disciplined, value-oriented opportunities we originate,” said Martin Mugica, President and CEO of ONCEnergy. “Our team has a long track record of building and operating renewable assets in the U.S., and we look forward to building on this relationship with Arroyo by applying our experience to high-quality investments.”

Arroyo Investors | arroyoinvestors.com

ONCEnergy | https://oncenergy.com/

Ford Motor Company named Lisa Drake president, Ford Energy, effective immediately. She will report to John Lawler, vice chair. Drake will launch the company’s battery energy storage systems (BESS) business, the formation of which was announced in December 2025.

In this new role, Drake is responsible for the full scope of Ford Energy’s end-to-end operations, spanning battery cell manufacturing, system assembly, and sales. She will be focused on building the future leadership team needed to capitalize on this high-growth market opportunity for Ford.

“Lisa has deep expertise in scaling complex industrial systems and securing critical supply chains,” said Lawler. “Her leadership is essential as we stand up Ford Energy to capture the growing demand for reliable battery energy storage that supports grid stability and resilience for utilities and large energy users.”

Drake most recently served as vice president, Technology Platform Programs and EV Systems, leading the industrial plan for batteries and electric propulsion engineering. Her background in industrialization and purchasing will be central to operationalizing the new business unit, which leverages Ford’s battery expertise and U.S. manufacturing footprint.

“Ford Energy allows us to maximize the value of our battery manufacturing capabilities,” said Drake. “We’re building a business focused first on utility-scale battery energy storage systems for large customers while also offering battery cells for residential energy storage solutions.”

Ford Energy is open for business; customers and partners can learn more and connect with the team at [email protected].

Ford Motor Credit Company | corporate.ford.com

WEX (NYSE: WEX), the global commerce platform that simplifies the business of running a business, introduced WEX Fleet card now with EV payment capabilities, giving fleet customers a single way to pay for both traditional fuel and public electric vehicle (EV) charging. WEX is the first fuel card provider to incorporate fueling and EV charging into one card, one account, and one invoice across its proprietary closed-loop fuel network.

The new offering allows all data and payments to flow to one simple, secure system, whether a driver is plugging in at one of over 175,000 WEX-accepting public charging ports or fueling up at over 90% of U.S. gas stations that accept WEX cards.

As fleets integrate a mix of electric or fuel-powered vehicles, many face fragmented payment systems, multiple cards or apps, and complex reconciliation. The WEX Fleet card now with EV payment capabilities helps reduce administrative burden while delivering a more seamless and unified experience for both drivers and operators. In addition, fleet managers retain unified reporting, purchase controls via the DriverDash app, and one credit line for all transaction data for fueling and charging.

“Fleets don’t want more cards, more systems, or more reconciliation,” said Carlos Carriedo, chief operating officer, Americas Payments & Mobility. “Our customers want one solution that works everywhere, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering with EV payments built directly into this new WEX Fleet card. It’s simplicity at scale for mixed-energy operations.”

The upgraded card embeds RFID technology directly into the standard WEX Fleet card, eliminating the need for a separate EV charging card or mobile app to activate and pay for a charging session. This allows for a single card and account structure to support internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, hybrids, and EVs. Powered by WEX’s proprietary closed-loop fleet network, rather than open-loop, general-purpose card networks, this approach gives customers end-to-end control of transactions, enabling richer data, stronger security, and fleet-specific purchase controls that support electrification without disrupting existing fueling workflows.

Key benefits of the WEX Fleet card now with EV payment capabilities

• One card, one account, one invoice: Fuel and EV charging all tied to a single card and credit line.
• Embedded tap-to-charge capability: Drivers use the same card for all fueling scenarios – no separate RFID required.
• Consolidated reporting and controls: Fleet managers get unified visibility into fueling and charging activity with existing purchase controls.
• Easy activation: EV charging capabilities can be enabled immediately or rolled in during the next scheduled renewal.

The WEX Fleet card now with EV payment capabilities reflects WEX’s ongoing effort to simplify operations and support the evolving needs of mixed-energy fleets. With real-time charger availability, remote initiation, and detailed transaction insights already part of WEX’s En Route EV suite, fleets can more easily manage the shift to electrification.

Availability
The WEX Fleet card now with EV payment capabilities is available today for eligible fleet customers. Existing EV enabled customers can request updated cards directly through the WEX online customer portal by clicking “Enable EV” on any existing fuel card, by clicking “Enable EV” when ordering new fuel cards, or receive them automatically during their next regular card-renewal cycle. 

WEX | www.wexinc.com

EDP Renewables North America LLC (EDPR NA) announced the start of commercial operations at Riverstart Solar IV, a 150-megawatt (MW) clean energy infrastructure project in Randolph County, Indiana. Riverstart Solar IV will generate electricity equivalent to the consumption of more than 28,800 Hoosier homes and businesses every year while shoring up Indiana's grid reliability, energy independence, and regional economic growth.

"As Indiana's largest clean energy operator, we're proud to deliver projects like Riverstart Solar that build up the state's energy independence and reliability," said Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America. "This is homegrown energy infrastructure that strengthens the regional grid, delivers steady revenue for vital local services, and generates millions in long-term investment to Randolph County—all while ensuring that Indiana's power supply remains reliable, affordable, and secure for its communities and businesses."

"The completion of the Riverstart Solar IV marks an important milestone in Indiana's energy future," said Indiana Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources Suzanne Jaworowski. "Under Governor Braun's leadership, Indiana is prioritizing affordable and reliable energy for families and businesses. Projects like Riverstart IV demonstrate how Indiana can bolster our energy independence and resiliency while supporting economic growth in every corner of our state. We're proud to see this effort come to life and look forward to the continued benefits it will bring to our communities for decades to come."

Riverstart Solar IV represents more than $88.6 million in local and regional economic impact, including:

• $51.4 million in revenue to support local public services and infrastructure, including schools, roads, emergency services and equipment, and parks
• $35 million in payments to local landowners to diversify revenue from properties and provide a steady source of income
• Approximately $2.2 million in regional spending, directly boosting the local economy
• Approximately 625 jobs supported during construction

By 2038, EDPR NA projects will have contributed $65 million to Randolph County through economic development agreements and permitting fees.

In furtherance of its commitment to meaningful community partnership and collaboration, EDPR NA has donated more than $565,000 to community-based organizations in Randolph County—including 4-H, FFA, the Community Foundation of Randolph County, Randolph County United, and others to support local workforce development initiatives, educational programming, youth sports, and disaster relief efforts.

The Randolph County Commissioners said, "Clean energy infrastructure has brought tangible investments, steady revenue, and good jobs to Randolph County – and Riverstart IV is a prime example of how these projects can be developed responsibly and with ongoing consultation with Randolph County Officials to ensure that clean energy meaningfully supports the financial growth of Randolph County. We are able to significantly improve our ability to upgrade county infrastructure with the added revenue provided through economic development payments from EDPR NA's clean energy projects like Riverstart."

EDPR NA is the largest owner and operator of clean energy in Indiana, generating nearly 30% of all the wind and solar capacity in the state. With the completion of Riverstart IV Solar, EDPR NA now operates 2 GW gross of reliable, domestically-sourced energy in Indiana powering the equivalent of more than 527,000 homes and businesses.

EDPR NA's track record of reliable clean energy delivery in Indiana includes Headwaters Wind (398 MW ),  Meadow Lake Wind (801 MW),  Riverstart Solar (450 MW), Sweet Acres Wind (202 MW), and Carpenter Wind (196 MW).

EDP Renewables North America | www.edprnorthamerica.com