If You Build It, Will They Charge?

Source: NYTimes

A transition to electric cars isn’t just a matter of the cars, but also of the infrastructure that goes with them, including public charging stations. The Electric Power Research Institute and the Tennessee Valley Authority plan to cut the ribbon on Tuesday on a prototype of a new kind of charging station, one that uses solar cells and batteries. But they do not work together in quite the way the public might expect.

The initial installation has six parking stalls, one of them extra wide for handicapped drivers, with carport roofs covered with solar panels. There are three refrigerator-size battery packs in a building that is heated and air-conditioned.

Under the program, called the TVA Smart Station Initiative, such charging stations are described as “solar assisted” because the panels generate only 12 kilowatts at noon on a sunny day, and the charging stations, when in use, draw 3.3 kilowatts for each vehicle, for a total of nearly 20 kilowatts. Cars will go three or four miles on a kilowatt-hour, and in Tennessee, where all of the charging stations will be installed, the cells atop each space will make enough electricity to move a car about 7,000 miles a year, according to John W. Halliwell, a senior project manager at the institute’s research center in Knoxville.

Yet for much of the time, electricity from the cells will flow to the grid because no car will be there to charge. And to recharge the cars, the system draws power from the grid, so the sun does not have to be shining for a driver to charge up.

The batteries and the solar cells themselves are something like shock absorbers for the grid. If drivers want to charge their cars during peak periods on the grid, the charging station’s batteries will meet part of that demand so that the impact on the grid is milder. Likewise, the solar cells will chip in with some energy, lessening the load on the grid.

“If with new technologies we can control these resources on the distribution side, we can eliminate the need for potentially very expensive upgrades to the distribution system,” said James A. Ellis, the senior manager for transportation and infrastructure at the T.V.A.’s Technology Innovation Organization.

At the Electric Power Research Institute, which will be the site of the first charging stations, Mr. Halliwell said, the various elements could be used in any mix. The batteries, of an advanced lead-acid design, have a usable capacity of 30 kilowatt-hours. They will wear out if they get too hot and will not deliver much current if they get too cold, so one question is how much energy it will take to keep them at a comfortable temperature.

Years from now, Mr. Ellis said, batteries that began their life in electric cars but have lost some of their capacity might be suitable for use at the charging stations. In fact, one function of this program is to determine whether such batteries could be useful, although the batteries to be used in the initial trial are not the sort used in cars.

Researchers say they need to know a lot more about charging stations. Will drivers use them to get a full charge or simply park there for as long as they happen to be in the neighborhood, to add a few miles of range? (At 3.3 kilowatts, a typical car would add about 10 miles of range per hour of charging time.) Where are charging stations most likely to get used? Airports? Universities? Shopping center parking lots?

With the Chevy Volt hybrid and the Nissan Leaf all-electric vehicle just hitting the streets, the question remains open.

Another question is economics: there is no mechanism at the moment for charging the driver for the electricity. Because the project is expected to cost $50,000 to $100,000 per space, some purpose beyond electricity sales will probably be needed to make it work, Mr. Halliwell said.

The institute and the T.V.A. hope to have about 125 parking stalls in place, most of them by the end of this year and mainly in the Knoxville, Nashville and Chattanooga areas.

Retired Florida Couple Fuels Their Home On Solar Energy

Source: Tampa Bay Online

Walking into the Million's pleasant Sebring home all decorated for Christmas, you would never know that it's almost entirely powered by the sun.

Jerry Million, 87, and his wife Elli, 83, showed off their most recent electric bill: $13.

"Just a little bit of a change," joked Jerry, who admitted a typical bill in the past ranged from $150-$200 a month.

The Millions have two hot water heating panels and 22 photovoltaic solar panels on the backside of their roof with plans to install 12 more. It's hard to get a look at them without climbing up on the roof or backing far enough away from the house to see the sloping shingles with discreet, black rectangles attached.

How do solar panels work?

The water heating panels are designed to do just that - heat water for the home. They do not produce electricity. The Millions installed their two hot water panels 15 years ago. "They won the contest 15 years ago for being the most efficient," said Jerry. "I paid an outrageous price for them - $650," he said, keeping the jokes going. "It was such a good deal, I think. They pay for themselves every three years."

The Millions were very impressed with the results from the hot water panels, saying that they never ran out of hot water once and that the temperature of the water was "boiling hot."

Jerry decided he wanted to go ahead and start installing photovoltaic panels, which are able to convert the sun's rays into electricity that can be used to power the rest of the home. They had 22 panels installed in June 2009 by a local company known as One Solar.

Photovoltaic solar panels make use of clean, renewable energy from the sun and are connected into the home's electricity meter. When the panels make electricity, it causes the meter to run backwards and when the household uses electricity, the meter runs forward. At the end of the month, the electric company (in the Million's case Progress Energy) sends them a bill for the difference. If the home produces more energy than the household uses, the electric company actually purchases that electricity from the homeowner.

The Millions haven't made any money off their panels yet, but they are expecting to once they get the next 12 panels installed. "General Electric is coming out with new panels with a substantial operating efficiency. Much better than what we have now," said Jerry, excited to take advantage of the newest technology.

He figures that if he can get a $13 electric bill with 22 older model panels, the 12 new upgraded panels should make a big difference. "Right now we've got a big irrigation system because of the two vineyards on the property," he added, speaking of his 1.5 acres of muscadine grape vines. "You can't even tell that we're using big electrical pumps."

Thinking ahead

But is the new installation isn't really about making money from the electric company. Jerry and Elli have their eyes on the future. "My thinking was, quite honestly, we're getting to run out of oil and it won't be too many years and then what the heck is mankind going to do?" said Jerry.

A big Warren Buffett fan and stock trader himself, Jerry quoted the legendary investor. "Warren Buffett said one thing: in 20 years the cars coming off the line will be predominantly electric." Jerry plans to buy an electric car and fuel it from his roof.

Which car is he planning to buy? "He's studying that," said Elli.

"I probably at this particular moment, and excuse me for saying it, but the Chinese are out in front," Jerry admitted. "The Chinese are going to have one according to Buffett that goes 250 miles with no recharge. That gets me over to the V.A. hospital in Bay Pines and gets me back."

How much did it cost?

The hot water panels cost the Millions $650 fifteen years ago, but the photovoltaics were another story. They had to come up with $37,000 for installation of the 22 panels up front, but have since received a federal rebate for $11,000. The state of Florida owes them another $20,000 rebate, which the Millions have yet to see. If the state comes through, that would put the Millions' total cost of ownership at $6,000, which means the panels would pay for themselves in two and a half to three years.

The Millions are not pleased about the delay in the rebate payment, but Jerry feels worse for those who had to borrow money in order to go solar. "A lot of people took out a loan with the bank. They haven't gotten their money yet, but they've gotten (to pay) interest on it!"

Retired and relaxing

A retired photographer with the Aviation Section of the U.S. Signal Corps, the direct ancestor of the U.S. Air Force which was in place from 1914 to 1918, Jerry pursued a career in photography and journalism for most of his life. The Miami native met his wife Elli at age 78 through an online computer dating ad.

"He's the luckiest man in the world!" Elli chimed in.

Elli is currently the second vice president of the Highlands County Democratic Women's Club and has a background in politics and government. In fact, she was responsible for pioneering volunteerism in the Dade County school system back when volunteers were not allowed in public schools. Her program, which was originally started to help migrant children who were falling through the cracks, was later picked up by the Dade County School Board.

"I'm in the first history book of 'Women Who Make a Difference' in Dade County," Elli admitted.

For now, the couple enjoys making wine and using the electricity that they generate without so much as lifting a finger.

"It makes sense. If that sun is up there and I can go ahead and operate this whole property, everything about it, with the energy that falls on those panels, why not take full advantage of it?" said Jerry.

He predicted that the rest of the world will eventually catch up to them, especially here in Florida where there is plenty of sun 360 days of the year to run a home with rooftop panels.

"We've got so much solar," admitted Elli. "Why not use it?"

Energy Roofing Systems of Cumming, GA Brings First Commercial Solar Project To North Georgia

CUMMING, GA (December 21, 2010) – Energy Roofing Systems announced today that they will be developing a 20kW solar installation for an automotive warehouse located in Dawsonville, GA. The solar panel array will not only save JRF Energy, LLC money on electric bills and reduce their carbon footprint, but also will produce extra power and serve as an added source of revenue for the business. Local utility providers Georgia Power, Sawnee EMC, and Amicalola EMC all confirmed that this is the first commercial solar project in Dawsonville. The 20kW project will make the most of Georgia’s optimally tilted surface, which receives more sunlight on average than the entire state of California. The project will generate approximately 32,494 kWh in its first year, which is equivalent to offsetting 38,023 lbs. of CO², planting 663 trees, or offsetting 888 gallons of gasoline.

Energy Roofing Systems specializes in applying advanced alternative energy systems with the highest quality cool metal roof technology and installing them in the most cost effective manner. Designed to reduce utility bills, their cool metal roofing serves as the perfect foundation for solar. Unlike traditional shingle roofing which needs to be replaced periodically over time, cool metal roofing is designed for long term durability and will outlast solar technology. This translates to extra money saved. One recent study indicated that it can cost as much as 25% of the original cost to de-install and then reinstall solar panels when replacing a shingle roof. Energy Roofing Systems was founded by a former custom homebuilder with over 30 years of experience in the metro Atlanta area and an alternative energy entrepreneur from New England. They are taking a forward thinking and sustainable approach, encouraging both commercial and residential customers to “Rethink Your Roof.”

Alpharetta, GA based Solar Energy USA was chosen to install this particular project due to their friendly and knowledgeable staff as well as their proximity to the North Georgia area. Their installation team, a staff of technical experts, is lead by one of the most respected names in the photovoltaic industry with 10 crew members being NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certified. The company has established itself as a premier provider of “Affordable Solar Solutions” for anyone interested in promoting renewable energy.

Energy Roofing Systems educated JRF Energy, LLC about federal, state, and local tax incentives that helped make this project possible. The Federal Clean Energy Grant is covering 30% of the total system cost while the Georgia Clean Energy Tax Credit picks up another 35%. Additionally, local utility provider Sawnee EMC is providing a $3,000 dollar incentive and a guarantee to purchase any excess energy this system generates.

Over it’s expected 35-year life the 20kW system will generate approximately 1015 RECs (Renewable Energy Certificates) equivalent to offsetting 868 tons of CO², planting 20,712 trees, or offsetting 27,740 gallons of gasoline. JRF Energy, LLC will see utility savings on average of $614 dollars every month.

The Federal Clean Energy Grant (also known as the 1603 Treasury Grant Program) was extended last week as part of the tax legislation passed by the U.S. Congress. As a result, Energy Roofing Systems has plans to help many local businesses qualify for the grant in 2011 by adopting solar PV and solar hot water systems.

Canada Weighs In With Rooftop Solar PV System Development Advice

Source: AltEnergyMag

Ontario’s Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) program presents a compelling business model for commercial and industrial building owners interested in generating clean solar power on their rooftops. Renewable energy developers have succeeded under similar tariff models across Europe, growing a new industry that has attracted dramatic growth in investment capital.

Here in Ontario, the tariff rates are among the highest in the world, backed by a 20-year contract with the Ontario Power Authority. As a result, there are many new renewable energy startups (and some experienced developers) entering the Ontario solar market.

As Ontario’s building owners evaluate this opportunity, it is critical to understand the many complexities specific to rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) development. Successful execution and delivery of expected returns requires careful management of the complex route to rooftop solar PV development.

Project success is dependent upon the following key considerations:

1. Access to Financing and Start-up Capital
Solar projects are capital intensive. For 250kW projects, the costs for fees and securities can be upwards of $100,000 before the panels are even purchased, at which point, an investment upwards of $1.3 million is required, based on Enfinity’s own internal calculations and market assessments.

Favorable financing terms are a key component to the creation of a successful investment profile.
As Canadian lenders begin building experience with the financing of renewable energy projects, financing will only be awarded to project proponents that can demonstrate experience, a healthy corporate balance sheet, and a bankable project plan involving an aggregated grouping of projects.

2. Accurate and Reliable Revenue Modeling
The key metric for this investment is consistent, reliable power production over a 20-year term. Accurately forecasting this production is very site-specific and comes from experience, reliable data, design expertise, and an intimate knowledge of various PV technologies.

For example, have you completed accurate horizon surveys? Do you understand the effects of shading, snowfall, debris, and other site-specific factors that will impact power production? These are critical considerations to gaining a realistic view of the power production potential of the site.

3. Careful Structural Analysis by Qualified Engineers
Protecting your existing structure is paramount. In the Ontario climate, there are several structural considerations that require careful examination, and in some cases, detailed modeling to properly understand.

Careful analysis of the existing building by a qualified structural engineer, combined with a detailed analysis of the impacts of the panels themselves, is a critical step of the design process. Proceeding with anything less than this degree of rigor is a mistake when dealing with the complexities presented by the Ontario climate.

4. Technology Best Suited for the Building’s Characteristics
There are many PV technologies and mounting systems available on the market. Selecting the best solution for your roof requires the right technology, for the right roof, at the right price.

Every roof is different (structurally, membrane differences, orientation, geometry, rooftop furniture, etc.). Your ability to maximize power production (and therefore revenue) depends on your ability to deploy the technology best suited to the characteristics of your building.

As a project proponent, you must ask yourself questions such as: Is this chosen technology proven in a comparable climate? Are there performance data available? Is the mounting system appropriate for the existing structure? Is the manufacturer a reputable, bankable entity?

At the same time, a developer must ensure its solar equipment meets the domestic content requirements as stipulated in the FIT program specifications (50% rising to 60% in 2011).

With the Ontario solar manufacturing market still in its infancy, the domestic content requirement can significantly impact your cost structure if you don’t have access to a competitively priced supply chain. This usually only comes with buying power and economies of scale of larger solar project portfolios.

5. Project Management That Can Navigate Change
Installation of rooftop solar projects requires management of permitting processes generally involving the Ontario Power Authority, distribution companies, municipalities (building permits), and the Electrical Safety Authority.

The FIT process is still evolving and as such, navigating the changing waters of the process will be challenging. Projects can be optimized only if the proponent has intimate knowledge of the requirements and processes surrounding domestic content, approvals, design, reporting, timelines, and the agencies and stakeholders interacting with the project. Building the right project team of specialists and managing them through the process can mean the difference between a project that is on time and on budget and one that is not.

6. Array Design That Maximizes Power Production
A rooftop solar array will not meet its fullest production potential without an effective DC design from an expert in solar engineering. Optimizing an array design involves such considerations as: varying resistance across the array, temperature differential, incompatible panels, differential shading, proper degradation calculations, optimization of panel spacing and layout, understanding snow melt, and intimate knowledge of the PV technology.

Attention to these design details goes straight to the bottom line as power production is maximized.

7. Installation Expertise through a Reputable Contractor
Safety and quality are the two objectives of the construction of the array to ensure no performance issues and/or accidents occur. Proper procedures and documentation all require the involvement of an experienced, reputable contractor.

Working with a contractor will ensure the protection of your existing roof system and minimize your exposure through warranties and guarantees on the work.

8. Multiple Insurances to Ensure Favorable Conditions and Costs
The solar PV array should be insured on a broad form and replacement cost basis, and include liability insurance. Proper installation from an experienced contractor, a comprehensive operations and maintenance program, and maintenance of a suitable security system on the PV array will ensure the most favourable conditions and costs.

9. Comprehensive Maintenance to Meet Estimated Power Production
In order to meet the predicted power production supporting your investment, a comprehensive maintenance program is required. This includes regular cleaning of the panels, digital monitoring and analysis of performance, emergency response, regular inspection of array connections and safety considerations. Knowing what to look for and how to make the necessary ongoing adjustments ensures the array is performing as expected.

Further, it is necessary to establish and manage sinking funds to cover replacement costs of fixtures. For example, for larger commercial installations, we have calculated internally that the inverter will be replaced during the 20-year term at a cost of more than $100,000.

10. Enough Administrative Resources to Handle Operations
Operating the solar array requires administrative resources. Systems and personnel must be in place to successfully operate a solar array, including the management of the payments with the local distribution company and the Ontario Power Authority, management of reserve funds for inverter replacement, panel repair and replacement, array removal for roof maintenance, operations and maintenance contracts, insurances, reporting, and array disposal at the end of project lifecycle.

Options Exist for Building Owners Wanting to Take Advantage of Solar
Ontario’s Feed-in-Tariff program presents an opportunity for building owners to create new revenue from their building by generating clean solar power on their rooftops. Maximizing your investment returns while mitigating your risks requires unique skills and resources. Executed well, investment in solar panels will generate returns in the range of 8 to 10% based on Enfinity’s internal calculations and market assessments. Missing the mark on any of the above can quickly diminish your expected returns, or in some cases, turn your investment into a cost.

There are options for those who would like to benefit from solar arrays on their rooftops without committing the required resources or taking the risks associated with rooftop solar projects. One such option is leasing your roof to a qualified, experienced developer who will finance, design, install, maintain, and operate the solar array. Likewise, developers can offer joint venture models for cost and revenue sharing, which also work to reduce the capital outlay and risk to the building owner. Such models enable a greater number of building owners to boost the cash flow of real estate assets at no cost or commitment of resources, while participating and making a valuable contribution to the sustainable energy initiatives of the Province of Ontario.