ILSCO offers its latest connector is a neutral bar adapter, Type NBST. This adapter enables retro-fits on already installed neutral bars or solar nodes.
The seamless stabs provide a dual current path for reliability and cool operation. The conductor can be inserted at 90 degrees, or parallel to a neutral bar and connects a 2/0 – 14 conductor. The neutral bar adapter can mount to a solar node or neutral bar with hole spacing from .300” to .350” which allows for diverse field applications.
Thanks to the recent high efficiency achievements of the BiSoN Cell with 5.17 W on the front side, produced at MegaCell’s Italian factory and equipped with four busbars, it is now possible to produce a bifacial 300-Wp module with 60 cells.
Starting with the bifacial high efficiency (21%) N-type monocrystalline BiSoN cell, the technical staff of MegaCell has implemented a new bifacial module that adds 270 Wp of rear power to the 300 Wp front power thanks to the high bifaciality factor of 90%. The rear, when irradiated by reflected and diffused light, produces an average of 25% of the power generated by the front, and therefore the total module power (front + back) reaches 375 W.
The BiSoN is an advanced “glass on glass” module, with two layers both 2-mm thick, which has allowed the team to construct a module with an annual power loss of just 0.3%, as opposed to losses of 0.8% from standard modules.
Tests performed by the Fraunhofer Institute show no indication of LID (Light Induced Degradation) or PID (Potential Induced Degradation), phenomena that generate initial power losses of 2-3% (LID) and severe reliability problems only three to four years after the installation of standard modules.
The technology of the BiSoN modules means that photovoltaic systems can be built which have over 50 years of useful life and produce higher amounts of energy, optimizing investments and greatly reducing costs per kilowatt hour (LCOE).
Pictured left to right are Graeme Thomson, Megger VP Sales US Distribution; Judi Santana, PCH Foundation; David Danner, Megger National Distribution Manager; and Rick Bieber, Megger VP North America
Megger held its 15th annual Megger Distributor Golf Event on Saturday, January 23 and raised $7,500 for Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation. The event, held at Ahwatukee Country Club in Phoenix, Arizona, is organized in honor of 19 year old cancer graduate Tyler Danner, who is a sophomore at Northern Arizona University.
David Danner, national distribution manager for Megger, as well as Tyler’s father and event co-coordinator said, “We are reminded each year what a wonderful cause this is. This year we had over 110 golfers participate. Their enthusiasm and love of the event touches us beyond words.”
After being diagnosed and treated for Rhabdomyosarcoma nine years ago at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Tyler Danner’s father wanted to give back. “By arranging this event each year, and donating all of the proceeds to the foundation, is one way of showing our deep appreciation for the care they provided to Tyler. Megger makes this all possible and it is wonderful,” said Danner.
The event, which is hosted by Megger’s US distribution team, authorized distributors, customers, employees as well as representatives from Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation, raised an additional $2,000 more than last year’s event.
Mike Palmer, event co-coordinator and western regional distribution sales manager for Megger said, “We raised over $1,800 with the 50/50 raffle. The raffle winner, who wanted to remain anonymous, took home in excess of $900.” Additional donations were made by IEC Supply LLC and T’Equipment in support of the event.
“A 2016 Nissan Altima from Larry H Miller Nissan Mesa was also a potential prize for anyone who got a hole-in-one at Hole 12 from 165 yards away. No one claimed the prize this year,” said Danner.
The Phoenix Girls’ Choir raised $1,100 through the sale of $5 mulligans and $1 raffle tickets sold for a chance to win one of three gift baskets donated by Popcornopolis.
For a second year in a row, Andy Augustyniak, Andrew Augustyniak, Jim Cooke and Jamie Braley from Newark Electronics won the event.
Peg Houck, marketing manager for Megger US distribution said, “It is always so nice to see the overwhelming support from our customers, employees and vendors. We truly appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that goes into supporting such a great cause.”
We spoke with President of Princeton Power Darren Hammell, who started his solar storage company in his dorm room. The company now celebrates 15 years. Hammell shares what has made Princeton Power successful, his view of the storage market and advice for other solar startups.
Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and Daytona International Speedway (DIS) announced the completion of the FPL Solar Circuit, a system of more than 7,000 solar panels that generate electricity for the Speedway’s operations and FPL’s 4.8 million customer accounts when the sun is shining.
FPL Solar Pavilion at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. on February 18, 2016. Photo by Doug Murray for Clark Planning Services, Inc. for NEER.
The FPL Solar Circuit’s total generating capacity is approximately 2.1 megawatts (2,100 kilowatts), ranking the Speedway in the top five U.S. professional sports facilities for solar energy installations, according to data from the Solar Energy Industries Association.
“With innovative partners like FPL, DAYTONA Rising has transformed the Speedway into the world’s first motorsports stadium,” said Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III. “The FPL Solar Circuit complements the advanced technologies we’ve used to modernize the stadium and enhance the experience for race fans.”
“We’re honored to play a significant role in the redevelopment of such an iconic destination that hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors to our state each and every year and reaches millions of others around the globe,” said Eric Silagy, president and CEO of FPL. “This partnership with the Speedway is a shining example of Florida’s innovation and advanced economy for the world to see.”
The FPL Solar Circuit is comprised of three canopy-like structures – located at the Midway, Sprint FANZONE and Lot 10 parking area – covered with solar panels. One of the largest distributed-generation installations in Florida, FPL Solar Circuit is helping to power the Speedway’s operations and FPL’s 4.8 million customers.
The clean energy generated by the installation will prevent the emission of an estimated 2,200 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year – equivalent to an average vehicle driving more than 2 million laps around DIS.
The FPL Solar Circuit is also equipped with high-tech data gathering equipment that will be used as part of a multi-year research study the utility is conducting to improve the integration of solar energy and smart grid technologies.
FPL currently operates three solar power plants and numerous smaller solar installations for a total of more than 110 megawatts of solar generation in Florida today. During 2016, the company is tripling its solar capacity, adding more than 225 megawatts of new solar capacity, including: three new solar power plants; major installations at the Speedway, Florida International University and other sites; and several smaller community-based arrays.
FPL is a subsidiary of Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc., which is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC. NextEra Energy Resources is the Official Renewable Energy Provider of both Daytona International Speedway and Homestead-Miami Speedway.
By: Emmitt Muckles, lead trainer at Fronius’ Lead Trainer
A group of solar installers are having lunch at a solar convention, shooting the breeze and swapping project stories. Sooner or later, the topic of stressful installations is bound to emerge. As one reminisces how a particular solar inverter installation went awry, every other listening is sure to respond, “Been there, done that!”
The truth is that installing a solar inverter is not as easy as buckling a seat belt or changing a light bulb, although it’s getting close. An ideal inverter installation offers better esthetics, increased chances of passing inspections, fewer chances of making mistakes, and the highest level of safety. Here are some tips and tricks to seamlessly install a solar inverter.
Location and position
Choosing a proper location is another crucial step in a successful inverter installation. Today’s solar equipment should last up to twenty years, but location plays a role in that lifetime. Although many inverter warranties are not voided by installation in direct sunlight, it is best practice to install in a location that provides the cleanest, coolest setting possible. In the end, these are power electronics. Power electronics will always perform better by not derating on hot days, and their components will last longer in the shade. The inverter’s positioning is important as well. Consider a position that allows ease of access, because servicing or repairing the inverter may need to be done following an install. The standard for an inverter rating for an install should be NEMA 4X. This ensures the inverter is well-rated for harsh conditions, especially when the install doesn’t allow for that convenient, shady spot.
When working with electricity, safety should always be a primary concern. Always follow safety procedures and comply with NEC and local codes, and remember to always allow setback space for code and ventilation reasons, as well as clearance for code mandated setbacks and gas meters and vents.
Strings and things
Wiring and mounting is also an important component of installation to keep in mind while trying to lower costs. Keep it simple. Inspectors will scrutinize your installations less if they see wiring that is clean and well-organized. Some inverters can be very different than others when it comes to wiring access, deep wiring compartments are tricky to get your hands and into, and attaching ground bushings and lugs can be a nightmare. Well-designed inverters should have space for service loops and attachment points for zip-ties to keep wire management clean.
Complex communications
Proficiently installing, commissioning and connecting data communications for inverters has traditionally been a complex task because inverters used many different communications platforms. In many cases, an IT professional with a laptop was needed to connect an inverter to the internet. With today’s technology, connections are simple using Wi-Fi and a smart phone app- an installer can even leave the process up to a homeowner. SunSpec Modbus has become the standard for commercial communications to third party hardware, and provides simple to wire and plug-and-play integration and provisioning.
Know codes and products
Product familiarity is another key aspect in successful installations. The easiest inverters to install are lightweight and ergonomic. Some manufacturers like Fronius have also made it easier to commission the inverter by offering a product line with the same displays and interface, and pre-configuring the inverters based on the typical application. Little more than basic testing of AC and DC, and turning the inverter on is needed.
Also, as the solar industry evolves and the NEC code changes, it’s important to be up to date on the latest requirements. Inverters are constantly evolving to meet the new requirements such as arc-fault protection, rapid shutdown, and all the advanced grid features that will be needed to be part of tomorrows Smart Grid. Inverter companies are driven to offer seamless solutions that are simple to install.
Educating the customer
It’s also a great practice to educate the customer on their power electronics. Needs will surface throughout the life of their system and customers will usually require post-installation assistance with servicing and commissioning the inverter. A customer who is prepared to handle the post-install life of their inverter is one poised to save time and money, setting the stage for a positive experience with solar energy. Leaving the owner’s manual with customers so they can learn the basics of their system can be beneficial and prevent calls and time spent answering basic questions. Web based monitoring provides customers access to their system at any time using smart phones, and can send alerts if there is an issue with their system. Web connected inverters can also be seen by the Technical Support Teams at inverter companies, and can provide remote troubleshooting and service.
By: Emmitt Muckles, lead trainer at Fronius’ Lead Trainer
When Tennessee Solar Solutions formed nine years ago, there wasn’t a lot of competition out there.
“In 2007, in our area, solar wasn’t big,” said Anthony Roden, president. “I was one of the first solar contractors in Tennessee. The fact that I feel like I’m making a difference, I find a lot of enjoyment in that.”
There has been a big upswing in solar in the state in the last decade, and business has boomed for the company. Tennessee Solar Solutions does do more residential projects, but a recent uptick in agriculture business has shifted the company’s breakdown to 60% residential and 40% commercial.
“We’ve seen a lot of large growth,” Roden said. “Everyone seems to be very interested in renewables, specifically solar. That’s a good thing. When I first started in 2007, it was just myself and I did a lot of subbing out of the work. Now we have about 24 employees, so we’ve seen a lot of growth.”
Tennessee Solar Solutions gives back by participating in local solar associations. Roden is on the board of directors for Tennessee Solar Energy Association (TSEA), and Ginny Kincer, Tennessee Solar Solutions’ COO, is part of the board of directors for Tennessee Solar Energy Industries Association (TenneSEIA).
“We want to continue to help the industry grow as much as we can,” Roden said. “We feel those two outlets are ways that allow us to do that and help give back.”
One thing Roden hopes to resolve is permitting. Still one of the more common complaints from contractors across the country, easing permitting frustration could be something local solar chapters help with.
“It should be a simple process; however, a lot of your smaller rural areas, your co-ops aren’t really familiar with the product and what it takes,” he said. “We see a lot of issues there. It’s not really that big of a deal to make all this work together. Streamlining of the permitting would be one of our largest obstacles. I would definitely love to see that change.”
In the meantime, Tennessee Solar Solutions keeps plugging away, doing the best job possible. One way the company stands out from the crowd, Roden said, is because of its certification and training.
“In today’s market, it seems like everyone advertises they install solar. You’ve got roofing contractors, mechanical contractors, electrical contractors, everyone does solar evidently,” he said. “We find ourselves at Tennessee Solar Solutions having to go and fix the work of these companies that do solar on the side. NABCEP is a way for us to stand apart and it shows we are open to getting that extra level of certification even though we carry a general contractors license and an electrical contractors license in-house. Sometimes that just isn’t enough. You need to be certified in solar.”
Also, practicing what they preach is something everyone at Tennessee Solar Solution takes to heart.
“The majority of the employees that work [here] have solar on our homes,” Roden said. “I think that’s important to be able to utilize what you’re trying to sell. To me, if someone is trying to sell me a product as specific as solar, if that person doesn’t have it on their home, that would make me less interested. It’s very important to be able to practice what we preach.”
SolarTech, a California-based solar design and installation company, shared the following infographic with us to illustrate the rising affordability of solar power.
![The Rising Affordability of Solar Power [INFOGRAPHIC]](http://solartechonline.com/wp-content/uploads/1512_ig_solar-tech_rising-affordability-solar-power.jpg)
In yet another record-breaking year, the solar industry in the United States installed 7,286 MW of solar photovoltaics (PV) in 2015. GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) announced the historic figures today ahead of the March 9 release of the U.S. Solar Market Insight report.
FIGURE: U.S. Solar PV Installations, 2000-2015
Source: GTM Research / SEIA U.S. Solar Market Insight Report
For the first time ever, solar beat out natural gas capacity additions, with solar supplying 29.5 percent of all new electric generating capacity in the U.S. in 2015.
Led by California, North Carolina, Nevada, Massachusetts and New York, the U.S. solar market experienced a year-over-year growth rate of 17 percent. Geographically, the market continues to diversify with 13 states installing more than 100 MW each in 2015. States that made major solar strides include Utah, which jumped in ranking from 23rd to 7thplace, and Georgia which moved from 16th to 8th in the nation.
The residential solar market grew 66 percent year-over-year and, for the first time in history, eclipsed two gigawatts (GW). The residential solar segment now represents 29 percent of the entire U.S. solar market – its largest share since 2009.
FIGURE: Ranking States by Annual PV Installations
Source: GTM Research / SEIA U.S. Solar Market Insight Report
For the fourth year in a row, the non-residential market broke the 1 GW mark, but remained roughly flat year-over-year.
The utility-scale sector, the mainstay of the U.S. solar market, grew six percent year-over-year and represented more than half of all solar PV installed in 2015.
Cumulative U.S. solar PV installations have now topped 25 GW, up from just 2 GW in 2010.
“Without a doubt, 2015 was a monumental year for the U.S. solar industry, and perhaps what’s most amazing is that we’re only getting started,” said SEIA president and CEO Rhone Resch. “Over the next few years, we’re going to see solar continue to reach unprecedented heights as our nation makes a shift toward a carbon-free source of energy that also serves as an economic and job-creating engine.”
“The U.S. solar market remains concentrated in key states, with the top ten states accounting for 87 percent of installed capacity in 2015,” said Shayle Kann, Senior Vice President of GTM Research. “But growth has been widespread, and 24 of the 35 states that we track individually saw market growth in 2015.”
On March 9, GTM Research and SEIA will release the complete U.S. Solar Market Insight 2015 Year-in-Review with detailed market analysis and updated forecasts.
FIGURE: Share of U.S. PV Installations by Segment, 2000-2015
Source: GTM Research / SEIA U.S. Solar Market Insight Report
Key Findings:
For more information, visit http://www.seia.org/smi.
SunPower by EmPower Solar, who was recently named the only SunPower Master Dealer on Long Island, has earned two awards this month that reflect the company’s consistently high level of customer service and quality workmanship.
On February 18, the company accepted an award from Building Inspectors Association of Nassau County (BIANCO) at their annual dinner in Franklin Square. BIANCO chose SunPower by EmPower Solar as this year’s “Industry Leadership Award” recipient.
“SunPower by EmPower Solar has shown their commitment to strict standards including the National Electrical Code and the N.Y.S. Building and Residential Code requirements,” said Stephen Haramis, President of BIANCO. “Building inspectors take special note of quality workmanship and attention to detail. SunPower by EmPower Solar consistently demonstrates their dedication to quality installations and excellence in the construction field along with attentive customer service, which is why they have been selected for this year’s award.”.
“On Long Island, with dozens of municipal layers, we know how important it is to follow the codes from each jurisdiction. To be recognized by the Building Inspectors Association for our work is a wonderful compliment,” said Greg Sachs, Chief Operations Officer at SunPower by EmPower Solar. “We are very proud of our workmanship and are pleased to know that our high quality work is being recognized not only by homeowners, but by building inspectors across the region.”
The company also earned the service industry’s coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award, reflecting an exemplary year of service provided to members of the local services marketplace and consumer review site in 2015.
“Providing an amazing customer experience from the first phone call to the final installation is the most important thing we can do as a company. Every single employee embraces this philosophy every day. We know most homeowners only go solar once, and we see our relationship with them as a 30 year partnership, so we do our best to ensure they are extremely happy with every step of the process,” said David G. Schieren, CEO of SunPower by EmPower Solar. “We are glad to see that our efforts are recognized by our clients and they are giving us top ratings – being referred is the best compliment we can receive.”
Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality. In 2015, SunPower by EmPower Solar received 20 reviews, and earned an “A” overall score every single time.
“Only about 5 percent of the solar companies in Long Island have performed so consistently well enough to earn our Super Service Award,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “It’s a really high standard.”
By Erika Symmonds, Director of Workforce Development, GRID Alternatives
America’s solar industry needs workers–the National Solar Jobs Census forecasts industry employment will grow 14% in 2016. Considering this outlook preceded the Investment Tax Credit extension, a move GTM Research estimates will boost installations 54% through 2020, real 2016 growth will likely be even higher.
This presents an obvious challenge for an industry, in which one in five employers already considers it “very difficult” to find qualified employees; it also presents an opportunity to build a diverse workforce reflecting our industry’s values.
Here are five strategies for building a strong workforce pipeline my organization, GRID Alternatives, has learned in 12 years as a solar contractor and workforce development nonprofit that’s trained over 25,000 volunteers.
Spread the word, our industry is growing!
Start by communicating with local workforce investment boards (WIBs) and job training organizations. Many WIBs rely on government data where solar jobs get mixed in with categories like electricians, plumbers, laborers or construction. Workforce training organizations may be unclear on how quickly the industry is growing in their region, so outreach can educate them about solar job opportunities. Outreach also helps encourage training that builds skillsets for the solar field.
Diversify your search to diversify your workforce
Does your current workforce reflect the diversity of your region? If not, think broadly about recruitment to reach the largest and most diverse talent pool. Provide employment information to community-based organizations, community colleges, social service organizations, housing authorities, veterans groups and military bases, and professional groups connected with lower-income communities and groups under-represented in solar to reach individuals seeking career opportunities. Don’t just call and send e-mails–go meet people!
Attend job fairs in diverse communities and send diverse representatives to recruitment and speaking opportunities. Prospective employees want to feel welcome at a workplace, but might not apply if they don’t see people whom they feel they can relate to. Your marketing materials should also reflect the inclusive and diverse workforce you are striving for, but without misrepresenting who you are as a company.
How a job posting is written can also impact response. Job postings should be clear on required skills versus ideal skills to attract candidates who may not have solar-specific skills but have related skills and/or aptitude for learning. Posting should also include inclusive language: “all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including people of color, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.”
Consider recruiting directly from training programs like those established at schools nationwide by the Solar Instructor Training Network, or local job training organizations, which provide robust training (much of it hands-on) to highly diverse populations. GRID Alternatives partners with nearly 70 such organizations nationwide to provide solar training, and many of the graduates finish roof-ready.
Contractors in California, Colorado, New York, New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic can recruit workers directly from GRID Alternatives. Last year we launched the RISE (Realizing an Inclusive Solar Economy) initiative in partnership with SunEdison to train 4,000 women and people of color in solar within two years. Many have been hired already but more are being trained every day, and contractors can access them in our free online resume bank.
Test the intangibles
Some of the most important installation skills are intangible, and can’t be learned in a book or classroom. Contractors hiring unskilled workers should test trainees in actual work environments as soon as possible to determine if training’s worth pursuing.
The biggest intangible to seek is ability to learn technical skills. No matter how much someone is trained, they’ll need to continue learning in the field, and ability to pick things up quickly is a key to their success and yours. Being comfortable at heights is also huge–trainees may feel great in a classroom environment on a mock set-up, but get on a rooftop and say, “I don’t think this is for me.”
Once trainees demonstrate intangibles and learn core skills, focus on technical knowledge. Apprenticeships are incredibly effective. Whether an unofficial or registered apprenticeship, trainees benefit through hands-on experience side by side with someone already in the field, and opportunities to complement that experience with technical or classroom training.
Retention is everything
Once recruits are identified, contractors should train for success, starting with safety. Core safety training includes fall protection, proper ladder setup, communicating with team members if something goes wrong, proper attire, and recognizing signs of overheating or overexposure. Because contractors want trainees who can simultaneously work safely and quickly, these skills are especially important when recruits are trying to prove themselves.
Safety is just one way to show you care for your staff and recruits. In a solar industry competitively seeking to fill employment slots, building a reputation as a caring employer valuing safety, fair compensation and advancement opportunities for employees pays off in retention and recruitment. So does a workplace welcoming the diverse backgrounds, experiences and talents of its workforce. When you’re able to retain workers, you’ve got a better training and support base for new recruits as they come on board.
Collaboration is key
Industry collaboration is critical when it comes to building a workforce pipeline. Solar companies can invest in workforce development programs providing solar training to diverse populations; support solar education in K-14 schools like SunPower’s Solar Science Academy and the GRID-SunPower Solar Futures partnership; collaborate on job fairs like the successful Solar Power International event in 2015; and post comprehensive job listings where diverse candidate pools can access them.
Untapped talent is all around us–young adults ready to start their careers, formerly incarcerated individuals ready to start over, veterans returning home seeking to put their talents to use in a fulfilling way, workers transitioning from struggling sectors seeking an opportunity in a growing sector, and women.
Twenty percent year-over-year job growth looks like the new normal for solar. The industry can work together to rise to this challenge, and make the most of an opportunity to become the strongest and most diverse energy sector in the U.S. economy.
By Erika Symmonds, Director of Workforce Development, GRID Alternatives
JinkoSolar (U.S.) Inc. will begin offering residential solar financing to its customers through the GreenSky Program in the United States.
“Our mission aligns nicely with GreenSky’s mission. We seek to help our installers grow and delight their customers,” said Jeff Juger, Director of Business Development of JinkoSolar (U.S.) Inc. “Many installers are technically proficient but lack the financing options that appeal to homeowners. This program will give our installers a competitive edge, as homeowners increasingly look to own their own solar systems. In all, we believe this offer will allow installers to earn more business and homeowners to put solar cost-effectively on their rooftops.”
“As one of the largest home improvement loan programs in the country, we have worked with some of the largest retailers and name brand manufacturers in the U.S. We vet our partners carefully and think that JinkoSolar’s quality and operations records speak for themselves,” said Jeffrey Gold, Senior Vice President of Account Management at GreenSky. “We have already financed $600 millionin solar systems and are excited to work with JinkoSolar to make clean electricity more affordable to Americans.”
The program is available immediately in all 50 states. Homeowners who own the system can take full advantage of the federal investment tax credits, as well as any local and state incentives. Interested installers can find out more information at http://greensky.com/sponsor/jinko.
On the heels of the historic climate agreement reached by global leaders at COP21 in Paris, SolarReserve is answering the call to curb climate change with breakthrough solar energy storage technology utilizing American innovation that can produce solar generated electricity 24 hours a day. The company’s Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project is the first utility-scale solar power plant ever built in the world with fully integrated energy storage technology. Utilizing the sun’s energy, and requiring no fossil fuels, the project delivers electricity on demand, much like a coal, oil, natural gas or nuclear power plant, except with zero emissions, no hazardous waste and low water use.
“Crescent Dunes shows what the Silver State can accomplish with clean energy when we are serious about competing for investment in the global growth industry of the 21st century,” said Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid. “Nevada will benefit for decades as engineers and experts from around the world come to Tonopah to see what is possible when the public and private sectors come together to build the next generation of clean energy technology. Realizing Nevada’s clean energy future can only be guaranteed by a continued commitment to innovation and collaboration between all levels of government and the private sector. This project is an excellent example of that collaboration and Nevadans should be proud to have this engineering and clean energy marvel in their state.”
The Crescent Dunes project, located near Tonopah, Nevada, generated its first test electricity in the fall of 2015 after completing synchronization with the grid. Full load electricity generation at 110 megawatts of net electricity output has been achieved and the project has passed the necessary test to reach full commercial operation under its 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with NV Energy, Nevada’s largest electric utility. Consistent with the rollout plan, the facility will ramp up to its full annual output over the coming year. The validation of SolarReserve’s revolutionary solar energy storage technology is significant for the future of clean power generation on our planet, as this technology solves the intermittency issues experienced with other renewable energy sources, enabling the delivery of renewable baseload and dispatchable power that can compete head-to-head with traditional fossil-fired and nuclear electricity generation methods. The technology uses tracking mirrors, called heliostats, to focus the sun’s energy onto a receiver to directly heat molten salt and then store it so electricity can be produced day and night.
The key intellectual property (IP) is comprised of SolarReserve’s molten salt technology, which includes the molten salt receiver designed and manufactured by SolarReserve, the heliostat collector field controls and tracking system, as well as the molten salt energy storage system. The molten salt receiver, which is the heart of the system, is performing in excess of design expectations in terms of heat transfer efficiency. This is the key performance validation of SolarReserve’s world-leading solar thermal storage technology developed in the United States.
“The climate deal unveiled in Paris has the potential to catalyze a global energy transformation. It will further accelerate implementation of renewables around the world, including within emerging markets such as Africa, Latin America and Asia,” said Kevin Smith, SolarReserve’s CEO. “As renewable energy penetration grows, the need for cost-effective, utility-scale renewable generation with storage technology is becoming increasingly important for mitigating intermittency problems, delivering power into peak demand periods and supporting transmission system reliability. Our proven U.S.-developed energy storage technology deployed at the Crescent Dunes facility is already being used as a blueprint for projects in these emerging markets.”
In December 2014, in its latest round of solar energy projects, the South Africa Department of Energy selected SolarReserve’s 100 megawatt Redstoneproject with its 12 hours of full load energy storage. The Redstone project, based on the technology deployed at Crescent Dunes, was bid into South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program at the lowest delivered cost of electricity of any concentrating solar power project in South Africa to date. The Redstone project is scheduled to start construction later this year.
In August 2015, SolarReserve received environmental approval from the Chilean government to develop one of the world’s largest solar projects with energy storage located in the sun-drenched Atacama Desert in northern Chile. Utilizing SolarReserve’s proprietary solar thermal energy storage technology, theCopiapó Solar Project will deliver 260 megawatts of reliable, clean, non-intermittent baseload power 24 hours a day, operating at a capacity factor and availability percentage equal to that of coal fired power plants.
SolarReserve has been active in China’s renewable energy market since 2011 and will be pursuing China CSP market opportunities as government plans for 10 gigawatts of CSP installed by 2020 are advanced. The strategy for the China market will benefit both international and Chinese projects/markets, to include: enhancing international deployment of SolarReserve’s proven technology; achieving the economic benefits of cost reduction that accompany scale; helping China address severe environmental pollution issues and climate change commitments while creating a new domestic renewable sector; and creating a platform for cross border capital deployment.
SolarReserve is also joined as an investor in the Crescent Dunes project by ACS Cobra, a worldwide leader in the engineering and construction of power plants and thermal solar facilities, and the equity capital practice of Santander, a global financial services and banking leader. ACS Cobra’s Nevada-based affiliate, Cobra Thermosolar Plants Inc., constructed the facility as the general contractor while utilizing Nevada and regional subcontractors to perform the work. Nevada’s largest electric utility, NV Energy, is purchasing 100 percent of the electricity generated under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement. The project also closed on $737 million in project debt along with a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the overall project financing.
Mike Dershowitz, founder and managing director of solar software platform MODsolar
MODsolar is a solar software and service company providing design, proposal, contract and transaction software to the industry on a SaaS basis. In its service operations, MODsolar provides proposal creation, PV system design and lead generation. “MODsolar thrives at the intersection of sales technology and solar energy to push the U.S. solar industry forward,” said Mike Dershowitz, founder and managing director of the Philadelphia-based company. Dershowitz recently shared more about MODsolar, the solar software market and how companies can integrate software into its business with Solar Power World in the following Q&A:
The solar industry has changed a lot in the five years since you founded MODsolar. In terms of the solar business software market, what have been the most impressive or important changes over those five years?
There is no doubt that the single biggest innovation MODsolar and its competitors have brought to the industry is to eliminate the need to complete a site visit just to deliver a proposal. Though industry standard now, the use of satellite imagery and measuring technology, and then, by extension, automated system design, has completely changed the sales delivery models that are now possible in the solar industry.
The next biggest change was the creation of so many captive platforms custom to an individual solar developer. SolarCity, SunRun, SunEdison, CPF, Sunnova, Vivint—they all have their own platforms, and so that’s making the finance they’ve brought to the market captive. If you’re not on their platform, you can’t get their funding. I think that will ultimately slow down the rate of growth in the U.S. solar market. (Disclosure: MODsolar has built a version of its Platform for SunEdison.)
The second biggest change, in my estimation, is how funding providers and software providers are now starting to work together to provide integrated solutions; this is the opposite of my last point, and a good one for the industry, I think. Many markets dependent on financing have one platform that helps run the industry, so that all actors can transact together. For example, the mortgage market has Ellie Mae. I think we as an industry need to get there. Given the power of sales-only solar companies these days, I think they’ll correctly force us to get there at some point in the future.
Thousands of installation companies are looking to take advantage of the ITC extension and grow over the next five years. At what point in a solar installation company’s growth should managers think about using solar sales software? (A blog you wrote in 2014 states it becomes wise at 20 projects per month.)
In 2016, I would definitely revise my answer to include a consideration of your sales model in your software decision, as well as your monthly projects. I think at 20 projects a month (considering you may have quoted 200 systems to get to that 20), you still need software to keep it all straight—the premise of my 2014 post. But I think there have now emerged many sales models that require many more proposals per close than we saw in 2014—like the door-to-door guys, or the folks trying to originate in retail channels. They just see many more homeowners and have to give them something, so I think more folks are in need at a smaller project volume than before.
When a company does make the leap from Excel documents to a comprehensive sales tool, typically how long does it take for employees to become comfortable with the software, and do you have any tips for successfully integrating major changes like a new sales tool into everyday business?
We see that it generally takes one to two hours of training and about 10 real-world proposals before they’re comfortable. At 10 proposals, they’ll have seen a few rarer prospect needs, and these “edge cases” (in software parlance) really flex the employee’s knowledge of their sales tools. It’s one thing to use a tool in examples, it’s completely another to accomplish what you need to accomplish through the sales tool—that’s where mastery comes from.
The biggest suggestion I have for incorporating a new tool is to take old proposals that you’ve done in excel, or what have you, and re-do them in the new tool, and then compare the results. That’s a powerful exercise for the average employee because they will really see the differences in where certain numbers are. We see it every day on our support desk. Tons of questions will come up when they do this (which is a good thing—questions are how people learn), and this type of exercise will go a long way toward helping them achieve mastery in their new tool.
What does it mean when someone says “software as a service,” and how is that different from regular-old software?
“Software as a Service,” or “SaaS,” is software you don’t own. Instead, you license it and generally pay for it monthly or yearly. It doesn’t have to be web-browser based software, but mostly it is. The software is updated regularly (we update ours at least every other week, sometimes more), and those updates are included in your license subscription. “Regular-old software” is software that you download and run locally on your computer, generally pay for once, and have to pay something extra for updates (though not always).
The ModSolar homepage points to several services, which are all based in software. These include help with transactions, project design, customer acquisition and proposals. Are these all add-ons, purchased independently, or parts of a whole solution?
Many of our service offerings are based out of our software, but add the human element to produce something of true value to our customers in their solar sales process. The difference between our software offerings and our service offerings is the difference between “DIY” (“DO it Yourself”) and “WDIFM” (“We Do It For You”). Okay, maybe I’m pushing the acronym thing too far, but inherently some customers want to focus on what they’re good at and leave the rest to us or other service providers. Some want to do it all themselves, and others want a mix. Generally all of our services are “add-on,” but a SaaS license is not required to purchase them, as they can be purchased separately. This adds a lot of flexibility for our customers, in offering them a menu, essentially, to help them choose what works for how they are successful in their sales process.
ModSolar is said to deliver a new sales proposal every 30 seconds, which is quite an accomplishment. But what’s next for your company?
So I think you’ll see that number continue to shrink as the industry grows and it becomes even easier to produce a proposal. We’ll all be producing a lot more proposals. You’ll see us integrate many more funders directly in the platform to allow our customers to quote funders directly, and finally you’ll see us continue to expand and scale our service offerings.
First Solar announced it has established yet another world record for cadmium-telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic (PV) research cell conversion efficiency, achieving 22.1% efficiency certified at the Newport Corporation’s Technology and Applications Center (TAC) PV Lab. The achievement confirms that First Solar is on pace with its established research cell roadmap, and validates CdTe’s growing competitive advantage over multi-crystalline silicon technology and other commercial thin film PV.
The record-setting research cell was constructed at the company’s Perrysburg, Ohio, manufacturing factory and Research & Development Center using processes and materials suitable for commercial-scale manufacturing. In addition to the Newport TAC Lab certification, the record has been documented in the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) “Best Research Cell Efficiencies” reference chart.
This is the ninth substantial update to CdTe record efficiency since 2011, firmly establishing a sustained trend of rapid performance improvements that significantly outstrips all other commercial technologies.
“We are tracking very closely to a technology roadmap we first presented in 2013 and revised upward in March 2014,” said Raffi Garabedian, First Solar’s Chief Technology Officer. “At that time, we said we’d hit a 22 percent research cell efficiency milestone by the end of 2015. We’ve delivered on that promise. The accomplishment validates our continued confidence in CdTe as a superior PV material that combines cost effectiveness, reliability and high performance. In recent years and based on our research cell progress, we’ve improved the efficiency and energy density of our mass produced commercial PV modules at a rate at least three times faster than our multi-crystalline Si competitors. We fully expect to further separate ourselves from the pack in coming years.”
Garabedian noted that First Solar’s lead manufacturing lines were producing PV modules with 16.4 percent conversion efficiency in 4Q 2015, and that the research cell efficiency accomplishment serves as a powerful driver for integrating performance improvement into the real-world manufacturing environment.
JinkoSolar Holding Co. has donated 57 kW to GRID Alternatives, a national non-profit organization that makes solar power and solar job training accessible to underserved communities.
JinkoSolar’s high-efficiency panels will help GRID Alternatives provide solar systems to approximately 16 low-income families in the Washington DC area, which is expected to save them $533,000 in lifetime energy costs. This donation will prevent 1094 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, which is the equivalent to 209 cars taken off the roads for a year, or 25,700 trees planted.
“JinkoSolar is grateful to be given the opportunity to provide solar, a cost-saving solution, to lower-income families,” said Nigel Cockroft, General Manager of JinkoSolar (U.S.) Inc. “We commend our friends at GRID Alternatives as they continue to educate, train, and contribute to communities across the U.S.”
“These 16 systems will not only provide much-needed monthly savings to struggling families, but will also provide over 2,000 hours of hands-on solar job training opportunities to help people find work in the growing solar industry,” said Erica Mackie, GRID Alternatives CEO and co-founder. “We couldn’t do it without supporters like JinkoSolar.”
By Paul Grana and Paul Gibbs, co-founders, Folsom Labs
A successful installation doesn’t begin when the crew arrives—it starts at first communication with the potential customer, setting the right expectations and getting them engaged in their new solar array. We have found that the most successful solar installers follow these best practices to facilitate a smooth system sale and installation:
Triage. The most important installation is sometimes the one you don’t do because it doesn’t pencil. A quick site assessment, even before obtaining the customer’s energy usage, can help disqualify dead-end leads, which makes way for the promising ones. The most successful installers have a multi-step process of system validation, designed to minimize time and maximize throughput. The process combines sales and design tools such as HelioScope, along with supplemental tools like Energy Toolbase, OnGrid and UtilityAPI, to determine the ideal customers to pitch and how to approach them.
Share the workload. Even though we all want to be maximally productive, life often gets in the way. And especially at a small company, where the design and engineering team is often one or two people, something as simple as a traffic jam can be enough to hold up the whole process. This is why installers are increasingly cross-training teams. When one person is out, others can step in and pick up the slack. This is often enabled by solar-specific software tools, as they are easier to use than general tools like AutoCAD or SketchUp. It is easier to teach your sales team to use HelioScope than it is to teach them to use AutoCAD.
Keep it simple. When discussing a potential solar array with a customer, more installers are subscribing to the KISS principle. We are seeing them replace complex, multi-page proposals with streamlined, single-page proposals. Increasingly, these proposals even omit the equipment summary, unless the customer specifically asks about the modules and inverters to be used. Instead, these single-page proposals keep the customer focused on the metrics that matter: their energy savings, their up-front investment (if any) and the company standing behind their installation.
When necessary, incorporate customer feedback on-the-fly to improve buy-in. As much as you may want to push the customer to evaluate the solar decision entirely in terms of avoided cost and payback period, sometimes customers do want to have greater input on the system design. Customers who have done their research may ask about module or inverter selection or even the specific placement of the solar array on their roof. While this can be demanding of the sales team’s time, it is also a great opportunity to get the customer invested in the solar array. Once the system has the customer’s input, it becomes their baby, and the sale is more likely to close at that point. In these cases, it is critical to have easy-to-use yet powerful sales tools, such as HelioScope, that you can pull up and use on-site with a customer—because you can still leave that first customer meeting with a signature.
By following these techniques, solar installers can speed up their operations and improve their ability to convert interested customers into successful installation stories.
NEXTracker’s NX Horizon at a 1.1-MW array in Huron, California.
UL 3703 certification ensures that a solar tracker has met the stringent safety requirements of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70. It indicates a manufacturer has complied with the highest electrical and mechanical engineering standards. UL 3703 certification lets county building inspectors and other authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) speed up third party evaluation processes, which can mean faster commissioning for utility-scale solar projects.
The requirements of UL 3703 certification involve rigorous inspection and evaluation of a tracker platform and all of the trackers’ mechanical and electrical aspects, including mounting, bonding and grounding, as described in an installation manual.
All of a tracker’s characteristics are examined and assessed, ensuring they comply with UL 2703, including requirements within the standard for mounting systems, mounting devices, clamping and retention devices and ground lugs for modules.
Evaluation includes humidity and temperature cycling, rain tests and safety testing for the electromechanical systems of the controller. Testing takes into account the maximum system voltage of 1500V. Solar devices attached to the trackers also must comply with electrical and mechanical standards.
Product and worker safety is paramount for NEXTracker, which is why NEXTracker NX Horizon delivers the highest level of safety. That our entire tracker offering meets UL 2703 and UL 3703 certification requirements underscores NEXTracker’s commitment to safety, reliability and quality standards.
By Dan Shugar, CEO, NEXTracker
Applied Energy Technologies (AET), a manufacturer of commercial and utility-scale racking systems, announces it has expanded its ECO line of products with its Rayport-G ECO Ground Mount Dealer Kit. This kit is another example of AET’s track record of innovation and ability to meet the unique needs of its customers.
AET’s network of distributors is fully stocked with the kits, which include pre-engineered drawings with bill of materials to provide accurate guidance on the number of posts required based on site-specific wind and snow loads. AET’s dealer kits give installers and EPCs the ease of purchasing right off the shelf for their commercial or residential project needs, saving time and ensuring a quick turnaround, while maintaining AET’s high standards.
AET is highly regarded in the industry for both its innovative products and its engineering support; installers and EPCs can now benefit from this expertise when they purchase these ground mount racking kits.
“Our innovative dealer kits give customers direct access to everything needed for a ground mount system,” said Aaron Faust, VP of Business Development with AET. “By investing our expertise on the frontend, we are maximizing efficiencies for our customer, allowing for a quick turnaround for the end-user. Backed by our expert engineering and high-quality manufacturing, the kits can be easily configured to meet unique project needs.”
AET’s Rayport-G ECO Dealer Kits include pre-engineered drawings for both 60 and 70 cell modules, ranging from 2 row x 6 column array options to 2 row x 20 column array options. With the bill of materials, snow load, and wind speed charts included, customers can easily identify the number of posts needed for project installation and the materials required to construct the solar array for their project.
AET has been at the forefront in developing groundbreaking products that help bring solar energy to a wider audience. With an impeccable track record of 100% on time delivery, 100% on budget, and zero warranty claims, AET meets the highest standards in product manufacturing, design and engineering, and installation required by the solar industry’s foremost leaders.
Key Equipment Finance, one of the nation’s largest bank-held equipment finance companies and an affiliate of KeyCorp (NYSE: KEY), announced it has partnered with Trinity Solar, a major retailer and installer of solar power systems in the northeastern United States, to complete a $1.2 million solar installation for Builders’ General Supply Company.
Key Equipment Finance provided a solar tax lease that uses the 30 percent federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and depreciation to reduce lease payments for Builders’ General.
“Green-energy financing provides multiple benefits to companies like Builders’ General,” said Doug Beebe, vice president, energy finance for Key Equipment Finance. “It positively impacts the environment of local communities, alleviates concerns about energy rate increases, and demonstrates sustainable practices for customers.”
Trinity Solar designed, engineered, built and installed the rooftop solar arrays totaling over 405 kilowatts across Builders’ General’s four locations in New Jersey.
“Trinity Solar is proud to serve companies like Builders’ General, which is progressive and in tune with its sustainability minded customer base,” said Jim DeCicco, vice president of commercial sales and finance for Trinity Solar.
Builders’ General is consuming the solar power and receives income from New Jersey’s Solar Renewable Energy Certificates. The company is projected to generate over 450,000 kilowatt hours annually, which equates to about 842,000 pounds of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere or 304,000 gallons of water saved. Builders’ General estimates the installation will generate $990,000 in energy savings over its 10-year life span.
“Energy efficiency and green practices are a priority for Builders’ General, as well as the many builders, contractors, remodelers and home owners who rely on our stores and showrooms for their building supplies, ” said John Ciullo, CFO for Builders’ General. “Our partnership with Key Equipment Finance and Trinity Solar allowed us to maximize our tax benefits, easily complete the solar installation at our four locations, and quickly begin to realize energy cost savings. It’s a win-win-win result.”
Key Equipment Finance offers equipment financing and business leasing solutions to a range of business types and industries. Learn more at http://www.keyequipmentfinance.com.
