The rail-less Renusol EW system is lightweight and modular, further reducing installation costs, and utilizes the universal clamps from other Renusol systems to hold the panels in place.

Renusol America, a provider of solar PV mounting solutions, has announced the launch of Renusol EW, a solar PV panel mounting solution with an east-west orientation. Designed for flat-roof applications, the ballasted and non-penetrating system allows for up to a 20% greater array density on a given roof, increasing the amount of power generated. The integrated ballast system eliminates the need for separate wind deflectors.

In addition to the more power generated with more panels per square foot, the Renusol EW eliminates the mid-day electricity ‘spike’ typically found in a south-facing systems and spreads power generated more evenly throughout the day, allowing for more efficient inverters and lowering overall project costs.

“With the industry trending toward east-west oriented installations, Renusol EW is all about keeping it simple for installers, lowering project costs and maximizing power output,” said Renusol America’s CEO, Bart Leusink.

The rail-less Renusol EW system is lightweight and modular, further reducing installation costs, and utilizes the universal clamps from other Renusol systems to hold the panels in place. The mounting posts assemble with just one nut. This system is available in a 10° tilt and is compatible with both 60-cell and 72-cell modules.

Wind tunnel tested, Renusol EW is UL 1703 Class A fire rated for Type I and II modules without requiring any additional components.

Solar Power World

Renewable NRG Systems (RNRG) has launched today a new data logger that is specifically engineered to improve the performance of wind and solar measurement campaigns.

Building on RNRG’s well-known Symphonie series of user-friendly loggers, the SymphoniePRO logger brings significant upgrades in terms of capability and flexibility. “This is the data logger our wind and solar energy customers have been asking for,” said Michael Fisher, product manager. “It’s powerful, versatile, and as always, it comes with the great support and ease-of-use expected from a Symphonie logger.”

SymphoniePRO is a low-power, industrial-grade data logging system that is specifically designed for conducting resource assessments for the renewable energy industry. Each of the 26 channels’ statistical values are calculated from continuous 1-second data samples and averaged over a user-selectable interval (10-minute default). Collected data are stored efficiently as binary *.RLD files on internal Flash memory with a redundant copy on an external SD card, if installed.

Data are communicated and the system is powered via Symphonie iPackGPS communications devices, which only require a firmware upgrade for compatibility with the new data logger. In addition to SMTP email data delivery, SymphoniePRO allows remote, real-time connection capability over RNRG’s MetLink protocol for tasks like automated or manual data download, firmware upgrades, live data viewing, or configuration changes.

Also included is the SymphoniePRO Desktop Application, a new PC software package used to process raw data files as well as configure and communicate with the SymphoniePRO logger and iPack. SymphoniePRO Desktop Application keeps track of site data and produces versatile tab-delimited text files (ASCII) compatible with industry-leading software. Additionally, the software allows the user to view “live” data, apply firmware updates to loggers and iPacks, and preview data files in time series format.

Solar Power World

Fronius USA has recently invested over $1.5 million in the development and integration of a full manufacturing and testing facility in their Portage, Indiana, 400,000 square foot headquarters. Fronius is known worldwide for its quality power electronics, including welding technology and solar inverters. Fronius USA recently hired over 30 people to staff the production.

The manufacturing line produces and tests over 200 Fronius Primo solar inverters per day. The Fronius Primo is part of the unique Fronius SnapINverter line, which is leading the solar industry with its innovations in easy mounting, highest design flexibility and outstanding communication capabilities. The available power classes for the Fronius Primo inverter reach from 3.8 to 8.2 kW, to serve typical residential solar installations.

“The Fronius Primo is a leader in the residential solar industry and, as such, is a clear reason for Fronius to invest in production in the United States,” says Thomas Enzendorfer, Director Solar Energy at Fronius USA. “Fronius USA is proud to offer a high quality product manufactured entirely in the United States.” Since quality is a top priority for Fronius, every inverter is tested under real-life conditions for full function and safety before shipping.

“Our inverter production line applies the latest lean production technologies. This allows us to achieve both, efficient production and elimination of any potential error source to assure highest quality,” explains Klaus Strassmair, Head of Production at Fronius USA. The production equipment for the new line was sourced locally from US suppliers, as a strong commitment to quality and the US market.

Fronius appreciates Indiana as a manufacturing location for its ideal geographical location amidst the crossroads of America. It offers easy access to ground or air transportation for fast shipping to any of the fifty states. Furthermore, main suppliers of raw materials are located in the Midwest, which allows for short supply chains and good, long-lasting relationships with US suppliers.

This new production line is the first step towards more US manufacturing to come. Fronius USA plans to manufacture further products in Portage, Indiana, to better serve the high demand in the US. “As a family owned company, we are thinking long-term and are dedicated to showing our commitment to the US for generations to come,” tells Thomas Enzendorfer.

Solar Power World

Solar energy holds the best potential for meeting future long-term energy needs while cutting greenhouse gas emissions, but to realize this potential will require increased emphasis on developing lower-cost technologies and more effective deployment policy, says a new study on The Future of Solar Energy released by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Energy Initiative (MITEI).

“Our objective has been to assess solar energy’s current and potential competitive position and to identify changes in U.S. government policies that could more efficiently and effectively support its massive deployment over the long-term, which we view as necessary,” said Robert Armstrong, director, MITEI.

The study’s chair, Richard Schmalensee, Howard W. Johnson professor of economics and management emeritus at the MIT Sloan School of Management, added, “What the study shows is that our focus needs to shift toward new technologies and policies that have the potential to make solar a compelling economic option.”

The study group is presenting its findings to lawmakers and senior administration officials in Washington, District of Columbia.

The Future of Solar Energy looks at the technical, commercial, and policy dimensions of solar energy today and makes recommendations to policymakers regarding more effective federal and state support for research and development, technology demonstration, and solar deployment.

Among its major themes is the need to prepare our electricity systems, both technically and from a regulatory standpoint, for very large-scale deployment of solar generation, which tends to vary unpredictably throughout the day. Because of this, the study emphasizes the need for federal research and development support to advance low-cost, large-scale electricity storage technologies.

The analysis finds that today’s federal and state subsidy programs designed to encourage investment in solar systems should be reconsidered, to increase their cost-effectiveness, with greater emphasis on rewarding production of solar energy.

The group also recommends that state renewable portfolio standards, which are designed to increase generation of electricity from renewable resources, be brought under a unified national program that would reduce the cost of meeting set mandates by allowing unrestricted interstate trading of credits.

The study concludes by pointing to the need for an ambitious and innovative approach to technology development, with federal research and development investment focused on new technologies and systems with the potential to deliver transformative system cost reductions.

To see the report, click here: http://mitei.mit.edu/futureofsolar

Solar Power World

Dealer training at AllEarth Renewables began in April at the company’s Vermont headquarters and will continue throughout the year.

AllEarth Renewables has announced a new dealer training program designed to support its growing network of solar tracker installers across the country. Participants will travel to the award-winning tracker manufacturer’s headquarters and manufacturing facility in Williston, Vt. The first dealer training was held in Vermont last month.

“As we expand the availability our product across the country and the dealer network out there installing it, we are committed to working hard to train our solar partners so they can be as successful selling our product as we have been,” said David Blittersdorf, president and CEO of AllEarth Renewables.  “These trainings are designed to give installers the technical expertise to complete one-day installs of our pre-engineered dual-axis tracking system and boost their knowledge of our cutting edge product.”

The company has more than 70 dealers across the country.

There are two tiers of training for dealers.

The “Installation Training” gives new installers a broad overview of the AllEarth Solar Tracker and how  it works, as well as an understanding of the product’s components.  It includes a walk-through of the tracker’s production process, a tour of the nearby 2.2 MW Claire Solar project with 366 trackers, and the one-day installation of a tracker behind the company’s manufacturing facility.

The company’s “Elite Training” is designed for the experienced tracker dealer and provides a deep dive into the technical aspects of the product.  Participants will gain insight into the company’s production and quality control processes, mechanical and electric components, software, UCC dashboard data and site analytics tools.  The training also includes hands-on tracker inspection and project engineering.

Training dates are scheduled through the fall and more information on the training opportunities can be found at the company’s dealer training.

Solar Power World

Trojan Battery Co. announced expansion of its research and development (R&D) capabilities with the opening of a new R&D center in Sligo, Ireland. Known as Trojan Battery Ireland Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Trojan Battery Co., LLC, the facility is located on the campus of the Institute of Technology, Sligo at its Innovation Centre.

“The addition of Trojan Battery to our list of resident technology companies exemplifies the strategic focus of the IT Sligo – to provide an advanced setting for companies to further their innovative research and product development efforts,” said Niall McEvoy, Head of Innovation for the IT Sligo. “Trojan will have access to some of the world’s most advanced R&D capabilities available.”

Trojan Battery Ireland will focus on R&D of advanced material additives, fundamental electrochemistry and other innovative technologies which will play a role in the continued advancement of Trojan batteries. These developments will enhance Trojan’s battery offerings for its foundational and emerging market segments. In addition, the Advanced Materials Centre will enable Trojan to introduce ground-breaking advancements in deep-cycle battery technology more quickly.

“Establishing the Sligo facility is a key step in expanding Trojan’s R&D activities, and will strengthen our ability to remain on the cutting edge of battery technology research,” said Gordon Beckley, senior vice president of engineering and quality assurance for Trojan Battery. “By having a research facility separate from any of Trojan’s manufacturing plants, allows the Sligo engineering team to remain focused on true research and advanced development, while not being pulled into manufacturing continuous improvement projects. This independence is important as technology innovation plays a larger role in our long term success.”

Trojan has appointed two research scientists to manage various Trojan projects at the new Sligo R&D facility.

• Cormac O’Keeffe, Ph.D., serves as the supervisor of advance materials and manages the overall research and development efforts at the center. He earned his doctorate degree in inorganic chemistry from the National University of Ireland, Galway and is currently studying for a master’s degree in hybrid inorganic/organic material development from the Athlone Institute of Technology.

• Anita Hamilton, Ph.D., serves as Trojan’s lab research chemist. She earned her doctorate degree in electrochemistry from National University of Ireland, Maynooth.

As Trojan continues to rapidly expand its international business, the Sligo facility will be key to providing the technical resources and expertise to customers in the region, expand Trojan’s European original equipment manufacturer (OEM) business, as well as better support our existing European customers.

“Trojan Battery will benefit from the innovative facilities located within the Institute of Technology Sligo enabling the company to conduct research and testing, as well as continue to bring the most innovative deep-cycle battery technologies to the market,” said Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of IT Sligo.

Solar Power World

Dr. Scott Hammond, Principal Scientist, works on SolarWindow development.

SolarWindow Technologies announced plans to replace traditional electrical wiring connections with a simplified next-generation system for collecting the power produced by its see-through electricity-generating windows. In addition to reducing costs, ease of electrical installation will be important to window fabricators, glass installers (i.e., glaziers), electricians, and maintenance personnel.

The replacement of today’s cumbersome methods with the Company’s easy power connection system (‘module interconnects’) is also important for new construction and retrofit applications of SolarWindow electricity-generating window modules on skyscrapers and tall towers.

SolarWindow products, currently under development, already boast the industry’s fastest published financial payback of less than one year. Last month, the Company’s Power Production and Financial Model was reviewed and validated by a team of third-party, independent engineers and scientists at the University of North Carolina Charlotte Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (UNCC-EPIC).

“We have always had absolute confidence in the financial case for our SolarWindow™ products, and with the support of independent validations, we’re now focused on addressing the very real needs of future customers and end-users.

“Low-cost scale-up and manufacturing, ease-of-installation, and warranties are at the top of our list of ongoing development efforts,” explained Mr. John A. Conklin, President and CEO of SolarWindow Technologies, Inc.

Recently, based on encouraging durability test results that show transparent SolarWindow™ electricity-generating coatings have the capability of meeting or exceeding warranty periods for commercial-grade window products, the Company announced plans to accelerate its durability testing. Working see-through SolarWindow™ modules have set records for both size and power production.

A single installation of SolarWindow™ products on all four sides of tall towers could generate 50-times greater power than traditional rooftop systems and 15-times their environmental benefits.

Module Interconnection: Ease of Manufacturing, Installation, Maintenance

For those who will be involved in the manufacturing, installation, and retrofitting of SolarWindow™ products, today’s announcement could prove especially important.

The newly-announced easy connection system would allow glaziers and electricians to collect electricity from SolarWindow modules by connecting building wires anywhere along the entire edge of the glass inside the window frame. Previously, electricity generated on SolarWindow™ modules was collected at individual, hard-wired points on the glass.

As a result of this new interconnection system:

Sheets of electricity-generating glass could be manufactured to allow connection points for wiring anywhere along the entire edge of the window.
High-speed and high-volume production processing becomes far easier when individual solder points are replaced with an entire edge surface capable of collecting electricity; SolarWindow  installers would not need special wiring connections; and Electricians could connect their building wiring at any point along the edge of the glass rather than seeking specific soldering points.

Previously, glass window manufacturers would be required to physically apply electricity collection terminals on to the glass at specific points along the edge. Then, glaziers and installers would need to be especially attentive to ensure that these terminals were within reach of electrical wiring connections, inside a conduit or building wall. Finally, electricians would be required to make a physical connection to building wires at specific electricity collection points on the glass.

This traditional installation process could be space constraining, time consuming, labor intensive, and create potential maintenance issues; hence, the need for a simplified system.

“There’s little doubt in my mind that this new interconnection approach could substantially simplify the installation of SolarWindow products.

“While the rapid calculated financial payback of SolarWindow is impressive, ease-of-use and installation make customer acquisition and product adoption so much easier,” stated commercial photovoltaic design and installation specialist, Mr. Kelly Provence.

Mr. Provence is America’s first expert in his field to concurrently hold four of the most coveted certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. He holds three NABCEP certifications; Certified PV Installation Professional, Certified PV Technical Sales Professional and Certified Solar Thermal Installer and has been a Licensed Master Electrician since 1995.

“The replacement of soldering points and individual electrical connections with a single power-strip makes it far easier for everyone involved in manufacturing, installation and maintenance – a wonderful engineering approach,” concluded Mr. Provence.

SolarWindow products are under development in aesthetically attractive colors in high demand by architects, designers, and building developers. Unique to SolarWindow™, its technology is capable of generating electricity from both natural light and artificial light sources such as fluorescent systems inside offices. SolarWindow™ also works in both direct and indirect or shaded light conditions, making installation possible on all four sides of commercial towers.

For conventional solar systems to produce the equivalent amount of power as a single tower with SolarWindow installation would require at least 5-11 years for payback and at least 10-12 acres of valuable urban land.

For more information on SolarWindow, read these stories. 

Solar Power World

Solar Power World

Conergy has agreed to purchase inverters from Sungrow for many of its global commercial and utility scale projects over the next year.

Conergy selected Sungrow after a rigorous evaluation process, which included multiple suitable other candidates. Sungrow products were chosen for their proven transmission efficiency, which maximizes power output; lightweight design, which shortens the installation time; and precise readings, which ensure quick service support if any issues arise. The first project under this partnership is a 5MW PV solar ground-mount system situated in the center of the United Kingdom. The project will be equipped with Sungrow’s SG60KTL, with leading 99% efficiency, apparent power of 66kVA and only 55kg per unit.

“As one of the world’s leading downstream solar companies, with an over 3.4 GW pipeline, our target is to work with best-in-class global suppliers to ensure the sustainability and quality of our solar systems,” said Oliver Schweininger, Conergy’s Vice President for Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “Sungrow meets our criteria with regard to quality, global customer service, and product diversity to support our global growth in all major PV market segments.”

Sungrow’s CEO, Professor Renxian Cao, said, “With our nearly two decade track record and a service structure that enables quick response times, Sungrow is an ideal partner for Conergy through its global expansion.”

Solar Power World

SunEdison has been awarded contracts to build 33 MWdc of rooftop solar with Southern California Edison (SCE) in the utility company’s latest round of solar procurement. The solar systems will be built on rooftops throughout the Orange County and Inland Empire industrial corridors as part of SCE’s plan to upgrade and modernize the grid for customers in densely populated metro areas and reduce power interruptions during periods of peak demand. The agreements were awarded to SunEdison during SCE’s fourth request for offers under the utility company’s Solar Photovoltaic Program. SunEdison is the only company to win projects in all four rounds of the program.

Solar Power World

Affordable Solar recently completed the installation of the second-largest rooftop solar system in Utah on Smith’s Food & Drug Stores distribution center in Layton. According to the Kroger Co, which owns Smith’s, this 1-MW array is projected to save the distribution center approximately $20,000 each month in energy costs.

The rooftop system consists of 4,066 Trina Solar PV modules. Affordable Solar installed the solar panels on three acres of roof space in only six days. The photovoltaic array, supported by a non-penetrating Unirac RM system, feeds 36 ABB roof-mounted inverters, with a total output capacity of 993.6 kWAC.

The array built by Affordable Solar will produce 1.8 million kilowatt hours of clean electricity right at the site and cover 1/3 of the distribution center’s energy usage. Beyond monetary savings, the solar array will offset approximately 1,300 tons of CO₂ a year, and 32,000 tons over the life of the system. This clean energy generated is equivalent to the amount needed to power at least 175 homes or to eliminate the carbon emissions generated by 265 average automobiles.

“Smith’s has made great strides in reducing energy usage in our stores over the past few years,” said Jay Cummins, Smith’s president. “And now this investment in solar energy will also reduce our costs and save our customers money”

This is the fourth time Affordable Solar, a New Mexico based company, has designed and installed a solar array for a Smith’s location.

“We were truly excited when Kroger gave us the green light to design and construct the solar project on their Smith’s Layton distribution center,” said Nick Babic, Director of Project Management for Affordable Solar. “Kroger has repeatedly demonstrated their commitment towards incorporating renewable energy into their facilities, and we will continue to work in close collaboration with Kroger’s energy team to develop additional cost-effective solar energy solutions across their portfolio.”

Solar Power World

The Energy Department announced the five winners of the first round of the SunShot Catalyst prize competition, which were chosen out of 17 finalist start-ups that demonstrated their solar energy software solutions before a packed house and a panel of judges in San Francisco on May 14. Winners received $30,000 each to help advance their early-stage solutions toward commercialization.

The SunShot Catalyst prize program is designed to address the challenges to ubiquitous, affordable solar energy deployment by connecting American innovators to the tools, capabilities, data assets, and resources developed by the Energy Department and its national laboratories. The competition leverages each of these assets to launch cutting-edge solar companies and tackle time-sensitive market challenges. Here are the winners of the Catalyst prize competition and the challenge each is tackling:

Gridmates—leverages peer-to-peer energy sharing to combat energy poverty.
PVComplete—offers comprehensive solar project design software for solar salespeople that is compatible with the systems used by solar energy system engineers, roofers, and contractors.
Savenia Solar Ratings—quantifies the value of solar energy systems for homeowners and installers.
Solar Site Design—sells qualified solar energy development projects to solar equipment manufacturers, suppliers, engineering firms, and finance companies.
UtilityAPI—automates utility data acquisition for solar companies so they can accurately size solar energy systems for customers based on their previous electricity usage.

In addition to the $30,000 received during Demo Day, SunShot Catalyst prize winners are eligible to receive up to $70,000 each in future funding after successfully meeting product milestones agreed upon with the Energy Department and the panel of judges, with the goal of introducing their products to the marketplace in the coming months.

The diverse panel of judges from government and the energy- and venture-capital communities who evaluated the Catalyst competitors included:

Andrew Beebe—Managing Director, Obvious Ventures
Warren Doi—Project Manager, Energy Excelerator
Stephen Leist—Managing Partner and Founder, Piedmont Partners Group Ventures, LLC
Minh Le—Director, U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative
Farshad Samimi—Product Manager, Enphase Energy
Jake Saper—Investor, Emergence Capital

At Demo Day, the SunShot Initiative also announced it is now accepting “problem statements” for the second round of the Catalyst prize competition, which outline challenges to the solar energy market. Participate in Catalyst by submitting problem statements online or voting on problem statement submissions from others until Friday, May 29.

The SunShot Initiative is a national, collaborative effort to drive down the cost of solar energy so that it is fully cost-competitive with traditional electricity sources by the end of the decade.

Solar Power World

Nine Fasteners Inc. continues its ascent in the solar industry by announcing the creation of a brand-new module-mounted Enphase trunk cable clip.

This quality product is made of 410 stainless steel and has a rolled outer edge to prevent damage to the cable. The clip features a lead lip for easy handling and installation.

The clip, with a part no. of NFI-1463, is the first clip that is designed to hold a single trunk cable and eliminates the need for a clip holding multiple trunk cables when a customer is working with just one.

“The people we’ve talked to say it’s the best clip they’ve seen for this particular application,” said Vin Marino, Product Manager at Nine Fasteners Inc. “It works great, and with less material being used (than in a multiple clip), there’s less cost and therefore a lower price to the customer.”

Before the development of this new clip, installers still had to use a multiple trunk cable clip even when it might not have been necessary.

Nine Fasteners Inc. developed the clip in conjunction with: Enphase Energy, Quick Mount PV, and Ecolibrium Solar.

After several months of design and testing help from their partners, Nine Fasteners Inc. was ready to bring the clip to market.

“We’re very excited to be able to be the first to market with a clip with this functionality,” Marino said. “We believe the clip is going to serve a large need within the industry, and to be able to add this clip to the rest of our product lineup is something we’ve been looking forward to for a long time.”

Solar Power World

Despite the recent increase in the use of solar energy, a major challenge in the industry remains to be education, or lack thereof. In most cases, people are either unfamiliar with how the solar industry works or intimidated by its seemingly complex nature. For the industry to experience further growth, contractors must educate homeowners and businesses about why going solar makes sense and the technology works. Here are some additional resources that provide reliable information about the ins and outs of the solar industry for newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.

By: Emily Wild, SPW Contributor

1. seia.org

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is a national trade association in the United States consisting of members that research, manufacture, distribute, finance and build solar projects internationally.  The association prides itself on representing the entire solar industry from installers to engineers. Its website provides valuable information concerning issues and policies in solar, as well as current press releases from the solar industry. SEIA contains up-to-date analysis of the solar market through research reports and fact sheets that are used globally to assist government agencies and consultants in making informed decisions about solar. The site also hosts interactive features meant to involve people in advocating for the benefits of using solar.

2. solarelectricpower.org

The Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) is an educational non-profit association that stands to help utilities integrate solar energy into their portfolios. The company emphasizes the importance of collaboration between solar companies and their customers and stresses the value of continual technological advancement for solar energy to reach maximum potential. SEPA’s website includes a comprehensive schedule of upcoming events in the solar industry, such as conferences, webinars and workshops. By promoting these events, SEPA aims to provide industry members with opportunities to better understand the technical and market issues related to solar energy. The website has a resource section that provides information about engaging with solar that is geared toward various groups from private companies to interested parties. One of the most unique components of the source is the utility solar blog that features recent articles from reputable authors and a section for public contribution.

3. energy.gov

The Energy Department of the United States aims to overcome the environmental, nuclear and energy challenges of the country through the use of transformative sciences and technology. Their website provides a detailed overview of the nation’s energy priorities, including the country’s energy sources, environmental protection and nuclear safety. There are areas of the website specifically geared toward both consumers and businesses. A notable component of the website is the section dedicated to energy innovation. Not only does it feature the most recent advances in the solar industry, but it offers specific examples of what the solar industry could include in the near future. To involve the public in creating a more energy efficient country, the website offers advice on conserving energy within people’s everyday lives.

4. solarenergy.org

Solar Energy International (SEI) is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to providing technical training in renewable energy to improve people’s quality of life and promote sustainable development throughout the world. The company offers interactive online workshops and courses for anyone in the general public who is interested in using solar energy. The website has information about their international projects, including in-depth analyses of the programs and long term goals for each one. There is also a link to the digital version of SEI’s print magazine, an editorial that contains overviews of international projects and tips for at-home uses of solar energy.

5. solarreviews.com

SolarReviews is an online source with an objective to promote reputable solar installers to consumers in the most efficient way possible. SolarReviews believes that if consumers can be adequately informed of the performance of certain solar installers, it will lead to more positive experiences with solar, resulting in a universal increase in the use of solar energy. For consumers who are relatively unfamiliar with the world of renewable energy sources, the website presents the basics of solar in straightforward diagrams along with comprehensible explanations. For those who are more knowledgeable about the industry, there is a page of significant current events in solar. To simplify the process for consumers, the source allows people to search for installers according to the specific service they need and within their area of residence. The search results are then presented by means of company name or highest rated installer.

6. geostellar.com

Geostellar offers a user friendly source meant to inform potential consumers about the advantages and efficiency of going solar. The website is mainly geared toward those who may be on the fence about converting to solar energy. To positively influence their decision, the website contains a “curious” page where potential consumers can read inspirational stories about solar energy and learn about all of the benefits involved. Consumers can also receive a free quote on a solar installation, including a projection of how much they will save in their future without electric bills. To further sway people’s opinions, Geostellar promises a 90 day installation, a $1 million guarantee, and lifetime maintenance for its consumers. By breaking the process down into the 4 simple steps of estimate, design, install, and generate, Geostellar aims to promote the use of solar in an encouraging manner.

Solar Power World

Largest solar plant in Utah
SunEdison announced the successful completion and interconnection of the South Milford solar facility in Milford, Utah. The 3.8 megawatt DC facility is now the largest operating solar power plant in Utah. TerraForm Power acquired the solar power plant from its Call Right Projects List.

PacifiCorp, an electric utility that serves 1.8 million customers in six western states, will purchase the electricity according to its obligation under the federal Public Utilities Regulatory Policies Act. The purchase agreements and the price of the electricity were approved by the Utah Public Service Commission to ensure a fair price for PacifiCorp customers.

“We’re proud to announce the completion of Utah’s largest solar power plant,” said SunEdison Executive Vice President of Americas and EMEA, Paul Gaynor. “This is the first of many SunEdison projects to come online in Utah, and SunEdison is leading the way with more than 700 megawatts of solar projects planned for delivery over the next 18 months.”

The South Milford plant is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 500 homes, and should eliminate the emission of more than 12 million pounds of carbon dioxide per year, the equivalent of taking more than 1,200 cars off the road. PacifiCorp will purchase the electricity via a SunEdison 20-year power purchase agreement, which enables customers to lock-in low priced electricity at long term predictable prices.

Operation and maintenance of the solar power plant will be performed by SunEdison Services, which provides global 24/7 asset management, monitoring and reporting services.

Seven solar plants for Long Island
SunEdison announced that it has signed agreements with five municipal entities on Long Island to build seven solar power plants totaling 14 megawatts (MW) DC.

The electricity from these power plants will be sold to the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), an electricity service provider for 1.1 million customers in Long Island, New York, through separate 20 year power purchase agreements. The contracts with the Town of Southold, Town of Easthampton, Nassau County, Suffolk County and the Suffolk County Water Authoritywere awarded as part of the LIPA 100 MW Clean Solar Initiative Feed-in Tariff program.

“LIPA’s Clean Solar Initiative program allows communities to benefit from locally generated solar energy, enabling them to better control energy costs,” said Steve Raeder, managing director of Eastern USA distributed generation for SunEdison. “This program has been extremely successful and we look forward to developing more projects in Long Island.”

Raeder went on to say: “And with the new NYSERDA block incentive program and the governor’s Reforming the Energy Vision plan, we can replicate our success in Long Island and bring clean, affordable solar energy to customers across the entire state of New York.”

The solar power plants are expected to produce enough electricity to power more than 1,100 homes, and should eliminate the emission of more than 27 million pounds of carbon dioxide annually, the equivalent of taking more than 2,600 cars off the road. As an added benefit, the construction of these solar power plants will create an estimated 100 jobs in theLong Island area.

These solar power plants are on the Call Right Projects List for SunEdison’s Yieldco affiliate, TerraForm Power, Inc. (Nasdaq: TERP), a global owner and operator of clean energy power plants. Accordingly, TerraForm Power expects to purchase these projects upon completion. Operation and maintenance of the solar power plant will be performed by SunEdison Services, which provides global 24/7 asset management, monitoring and reporting services.

Solar Power World

Geostellar, America’s largest online solar marketplace, announced that Prologis will offer Prologis employees easy online access to solar power for their homes at steeply discounted rates.

Prologis joins 3M, Cisco, Kimberly Clark and other major companies who provide their employees access to solar energy through the Solar Community Initiative, the first nationwide bulk solar purchase program in the United States. The employee benefits program, conceived and facilitated by World Wildlife Fund and developed by Geostellar, is a new approach to purchasing, financing and installing solar panels at the lowest possible cost, by bringing together large companies to leverage the bulk purchasing power of their substantial aggregate employee base, their families and communities.

Beginning immediately, Prologis employees in the United States and Canada can go to geostellar.com and type in their address for an instant solar analysis of their home, which enables them to see how much they can potentially save on electricity bills and associated greenhouse gas emissions by going solar.

“We are very excited to offer our employees in the U.S. and Canada the opportunity to invest in affordable solar energy,” said Jeannie Renné-Malone, Prologis’ vice president of sustainability. “This program not only supports Prologis’ sustainability goals by reducing environmental impacts, but it also provides significant economic and energy savings to our employees.” Renné-Malone also noted that the company is exploring similar programs for Prologis colleagues in other countries.

Geostellar will run the online solar platform and manage the financing, design, permitting and installation processes for individual homeowners who are employees of Prologis. All installations will be performed by qualified contractors based in the purchasers’ local community, further increasing the local economic benefits of the program.

“We’re thrilled to provide our first-of-its-kind online marketplace that makes the solar experience simple and convenient for the employees of Prologis,” said David Levine, CEO of Geostellar. “Homeowners everywhere can simply type in their address and see instantly how much solar can save them on their electric bills while increasing the value of their homes with no upfront costs or out-of-pocket payments.”

As the only national solar energy marketplace with an instant analysis of solar benefits based on sunlight intensity, installed costs, energy production, electric utility bills and local incentives, Geostellar is uniquely positioned to support homeowners interested in going solar. Geostellar manages all aspects of the solar energy installation, from system design to contracting and ongoing monitoring and maintenance, at the lowest possible cost to the property owner, increasing the benefits of solar energy for homes and workplaces.

Prologis recently made its seventh consecutive appearance on the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World Index. The 2015 rankings, compiled by Toronto-based advisory firm Corporate Knights, were announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January.

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Solar installers and contractors that have completed a non-profit solar installation are encouraged to apply for the Brian D. Robertson Solar Schools Memorial Fund (BDR Fund) Award by Friday, June 12.

The BDR Fund Award recognizes a selfless solar company exemplifying the legacy of Brian Robertson, a young entrepreneur and solar pioneer who died in a plane crash in December 2011. The award acknowledges the often overlooked non-profit work of community-oriented solar companies.

The award winner will be chosen by The Solar Foundation and BDR Fund board members based on various criteria, including project impact on an individual, community or organization and the extent of the installer’s involvement with the project.

The BDR Fund is a project of The Solar Foundation, a national non-profit dedicated to expanding access to solar energy and broadening solar energy education in our nation’s K-12 schools.

Project nominations are being accepted here.

The winner will be announced in early September and honored at the annual Solar Power World Top Solar Contractors Gala, which will be held in Anaheim, California, on September 14.

Please send questions to Steven Bushong at sbushong@wtwhmedia.com.

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RECOM announced it will launch its new innovative modules at Intersolar Europe in Munich. In alignment with the recent expansion of the company’s product range through the acquisition and operation of a 200-MW capacity solar cell manufacturing facility in Northern Italy and the production of high efficiency RECOM Solar Cells, the company continues investing in state-of-the-art technological innovation and R&D.

RECOM launches 3 new products at Intersolar; immediately available

1,500-V modules. RECOM is fully aware of the EPC’s needs to reduce the installation costs and design higher voltage systems; hence the company announces the initiation of 1,500-V solar modules production. Just few of the advantages of these modules are the significant reduction of power losses in electrical transformers, the reduction in installation cost due to 50% longer strings, the usage of less combiners and cables. According to GTM’s research installing 1,500-Vdc systems in place of now-standard 1,000-Vdc can lower costs by as much as $0.05 USD/Watt.

Smart modules powered by Tigo Energy.  In close collaboration with its partner, Tigo Energy the smart technology market leader, RECOM is launching Smart Solar Modules which boost performance and deliver up to 20% more energy production. This advancement guarantees real-time monitoring and alerting, avoid of the bottleneck effect, independent operation of each module, fast and easy O&M, less BOS components, protection from over – voltage, over -temperature and over – current and it is totally compatible with the Rapid Shutdown Requirements in certain European markets and the USA.

Glass – Glass modules. The company will also introduce the new and much anticipated RECOM Glass – Glass module. RECOM’s glass-glass module is an ideal solution for rooftops due to its exceptional aesthetics. It is suitable for waterside PV installations, resistant to sand and acid, it does not require any grounding and most importantly, is PID (potential induced degradation) free.

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Polls close Thursday, June 4, for the Intersolar Champion of Change Award, which honors individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to supporting the development of renewable energy at a national or international level.

Votes are being taken here. 

The nominees for the Intersolar Champion of Change Award, which is hosted by Intersolar in close partnership with CALSEIA, include:

Richard Kauffman, Chairman of Energy & Finance for New York (Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo), Chair of the NYSERDA Board

Kauffman leads New York State’s comprehensive Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) initiative. REV includes regulatory reform to restructure the energy and utility industry, a 10-year commitment to support local renewable energy and efficiency markets through the proposed creation of the Clean Energy Fund, and other initiatives such as NY Green Bank and the $1 billion NY-Sun solar programs.

Fran Pavley, California Senator, Author of AB 32 California’s Global Warming Law

In 2004, Pavley authored Assembly Bill 1493, which became the model for national vehicle emissions standards. Two years later, she authored Assembly Bill 32, the nation’s first cap on greenhouse gas pollution. Both laws have become models for other states and nations. This year, she’s authoring SB 32, to set a new 2050 carbon emissions cap for California.

Nancy Skinner, Former Member of the California State Assembly, author of AB 510 California’s Net Metering Law  

During her tenure in the California State Assembly, Skinner authored such critical legislation as AB 510, the Net Metering law that raised the cap to 5%, SB 2X that mandated California’s 33% renewable portfolio standard, AB 2514, the bill that prioritized energy storage for grid wide and distributed energy applications, and AB 39 which funded California schools for solar and energy upgrades.

Click here to vote.

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Gigawatt will distribute the APS line of advanced microinverter products, in a first-time partnership between the two companies.

Placentia, Calif.-based Gigawatt is a full-service solar provider offering PV system design, financing and installation for residential and commercial customers.

The company distributes solar products through its www.GoGreenSolar.com website.

Deep Patel, Gigawatt CEO, hailed the agreement that brings the APS microinverter line to Gigawatt’s portfolio of top-quality solar offerings.

“APS has emerged from the solar pack with forward-thinking and popular microinverter products,” Patel said. “Their line is an excellent addition to our distribution channel. Our customers will find them reliable and easy to work with.”

Since its inception in 2006, Gigawatt has served customers worldwide including the U.S. Department of Defense, the Federal Aviation Administration, the United States Marine Corps., and the City of Los Angeles.

The company has also introduced its own line of innovative solar products, including the SunJack portable solar charger; the SunPole distributed solar power plant; and the SunShelter grid-tied solar bus kiosk, among others.

Thomas Nelson, APS America Vice President of Sales, said the two companies are driven by the same goals and values in the solar marketplace.

“Gigawatt shares our commitment to technology innovation,” Nelson said. “Like APS, they’re bringing new and groundbreaking solar products to market in an array of applications and competitive price points. We’re glad to partner with them on distribution and service.”

APS flagship products include the YC500, a powerful dual-module microinverter, and the YC1000 true 3-phase unit, purpose-designed for commercial applications and offering an unprecedented 1:4 microinverter-to-module ratio to significantly lower BOS costs.

Both units will be offered by Gigawatt through its distribution network.

APS was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009, and is now a global leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of microinverters based on their own proven, leading-edge solar technology. APS America, representing APS in the U.S. market, is based in Seattle.

APS ranked No. 2 in global market share among top microinverter suppliers by shipment in 2013 (source: GTM Research).

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