Title: “Addressing the Real Issues Behind the ‘Solar Glut’: Transmission and Battery Challenges” Dear Editor, I am writing in response to the recent discussions about the so-called “solar glut” in the energy industry. While it is true that there has been a significant increase in solar energy production, I believe that the focus should not be on the abundance of solar power, but rather on the challenges of transmission and storage. The current transmission infrastructure is not equipped to handle the large-scale distribution of solar energy. This results in wasted potential and a lack of access to renewable energy for many communities. Additionally, the issue of battery storage remains a major hurdle in fully utilizing solar power. Without efficient and cost-effective storage solutions, excess solar energy cannot be stored for use during peak demand periods. It is important to recognize that the “solar glut” is not a problem with solar energy itself, but rather with the supporting infrastructure. As we continue to transition towards renewable energy sources, it is crucial that we address these transmission and storage challenges. Investing in modernizing our transmission systems and developing better battery technology will not only help us fully utilize solar energy, but also pave the way for a more sustainable and reliable energy future. It is time to shift the focus from the perceived problem of a “solar glut” to finding solutions for the real issues at hand. Sincerely, [Your Name] 

To the editor: Every month, California throws away enough solar and wind energy to power half a million homes — not because we don’t need it, but because our system is designed to waste it. While Sacramento celebrates expanded solar capacity, we’re forcing solar panels to “nap” during their most productive hours while keeping expensive gas plants running. (“Solar power glut boosts California electric bills. Other states reap the benefits,” Nov. 24)The problem is structural. Our regulated monopoly utilities are incentivized to build infrastructure where it maximizes their returns, not where the grid needs it most. The solution? Start by reining in utilities’ blank-check spending on questionable upgrades. Then transform the California Independent System Operator into a forward-looking grid operator where every watt of clean energy reaches its destination. California revolutionized wholesale electricity markets after the 2000s crisis; we shouldn’t wait for another crisis to fix transmission. Currently, these costs simply pass through the system with no incentive for efficiency, since neither utilities nor grid operators earn rewards for optimization. While artificial intelligence can help manage the grid, without meaningful transmission reforms at the state level, even the smartest technology becomes window dressing. We need a market that rewards efficiency over waste, not one that rubber-stamps natural gas investments while solar and wind sit idle.Until we align our grid operators’ incentives with our clean energy goals, we’ll keep paying premium prices for dirty power while our solar panels take their expensive naps.Jalal Awan, San FranciscoThe writer is an analyst at the Utility Reform Network…To the editor: California ratepayers spend hundreds of millions annually keeping gas power plants online that operate only sporadically. That’s because our grid needs surplus energy sources available when demand surges — much like keeping extra fire trucks ready for emergencies.The fact that a small amount of solar energy doesn’t make it to the grid on cool spring days isn’t alarming. All energy sources face curtailment, including gas plants that sit idle the vast majority of the year. What matters is having enough clean energy available to meet energy needs on hot summer days, and solar is vital for this.But California still has work to do. Sometimes we have no other option but to curtail solar power while fossil fuels are still being used elsewhere in the state simply because we lack the transmission lines to move clean energy where it’s needed. The solution for both affordability and reliability isn’t to slow solar development; it’s to accelerate transmission construction and battery storage to match our clean energy buildout.Melissa Romero, SacramentoThe writer is deputy legislative director of California Environmental Voters…To the editor: As a longtime subscriber and homeowner with rooftop solar since 2005 (and