North American Clean Energy - November December 2010 by North American Clean Energy

VOLUME 4

2011 WIND B WIND Buyers uyers G Guide uide Solar S olar E Energy nergy a and nd the IImpacts the mpacts o on n Water S upply Water Supply Understanding U nderstanding Enhanced G eothermal Enhanced Geothermal Systems ((EGS) EGS) Systems

Key K ey IIngredients ngredients t o p roject ﬁn ancing to project nancing

Biomass B iomass & P Power ower Generation Generation

PLUS Show in Print features: • CanSIA’s Annual Conference & Exposition

ISSUE 6

NOBODY KNOWS WIND LIKE WE DO ™. At Mortenson, we don’t just build world-class renewable power sources. We build strong, renewable relationships with our customers. Because we’ve been out here in the ever-changing winds for fifteen years, we know every wind project is different. That’s why we tailor every project to the customer. And why our customers keep coming back for more. Get your wind face on ™ at mortenson.com/wind.

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VOLUME 4

ISSUE 6

contents 2011 WIND Buyers Guide Solar Energy and the Impacts on Water Supply Understanding Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

NACE News

Classical Rationales Propel Solar Industry M&A

Key Ingredients 15 Ktto project ﬁnancing

Biomass & Power Generation

10 PLUS Show in Print features: • CanSIA’s Annual Conference & Exposition

Solar Project Bonds & Corporate Liquidity Banking on Solar: What you should know before betting on a warranty

November / December 2010 Volume 4, Number 6 EDITOR

Michelle Froese mfroese@nacleanenergy.com ART DIRECTOR

Rommel Ramirez production@nacleanenergy.com SALES MANAGER

Ian Stuart istuart@nacleanenergy.com 14

Solar Energy and the Impacts on Water Supply Choosing the Right Battery for Renewable Energy Applications

departments 20

Solar Energy

Investing in Clean Energy

Show-in-Print: 32 Solar Canada 2010 CanSIA Conference & Exposition

BioPower

Hydro and Marine Energy

Case Study: Solar cell structure impedes efﬁciency Solar Energy products

15 Key Ingredients to Renewable Energy Project Finance

Green Tech IP: Pitfalls & Proﬁts

CIRCULATION MANAGER

ACCOUNTING

Alison Bell abell@nacleanenergy.com

Ian Stuart istuart@nacleanenergy.com 255 NEWPORT DRIVE, SUITE 336

Port Moody, B.C. V3H 5H1 Phone: (604) 461-6223 North American Clean Energy is published bi-monthly and distributed free by Action Media Ltd. Application to mail at periodicals postage prices is pending at Henry,

2011 Wind Buyers Guide

IL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North American Clean Energy at 515 University Ave. Suite 1,

WIND BUYERS GUIDE

Events calendar

Dave Benton dave@nacleanenergy.com

PUBLISHER

Geothermal Energy

Jake Fidler jake@nacleanenergy.com

Kristy Vail circulation@nacleanenergy.com 22

Wind Power: 2011 Wind Buyers Guide

Structural Adhesives: A bonding alternative for alternative energy equipment

SALES

Ian Stuart istuart@nacleanenergy.com

Henry, IL 61537. Subscription updates can be made at

circulation@nacleanenergy.com.

2011

North American Clean Energy accepts no responsibility or liability for reported claims made by manufacturers and/or distributors of products of services; the views and opinions

Making Room…Fractures are coming through!

expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of North American Clean Energy. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers.

Enhanced Geothermal: Clean energy’s Holy Grail

Editorial, Advertising, Production and Circulation are at 255 Newport Drive, Suite 336, Port Moody, B.C. V3H 5H1 (604) 461-6223. Subscriptions: $48 per year.

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Global Ocean Energy Prospects Boosted by Established Hydro & Wind Players

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editor's note Having recently attended the Geothermal Energy Expo in Sacramento, California, I wanted to give a shout out to the geothermal community—which is seemingly expanding by the day. The Expo, which is the world’s largest assembly of related companies and organizations, was a testament to the significant (and upcoming) growth of the industry; 2011 is expected to be a good year. At the event, a new report was released, which affirmed the industry will add thousands of jobs as dozens of new geothermal power plants come online or enter the advanced stages of development, thanks to tax incentives, the federal stimulus, and strong state renewable standards. According to the report, “Every geothermal project that came online in 2009 took advantage of the tax reimbursement provisions of the stimulus bill, which helped maintain momentum for new projects and continues to create new jobs in America…In addition, the benefits of the stimulus to the geothermal industry have yet to be fully realized. About 95% of the projects receiving ARRA funding are either less than 50% complete or have yet to break ground.” (http://geo-energy.org) Nice to see from an industry that doesn’t always seem to get the attention it deserves—even despite the fact the electrical energy generated in the US from geothermal resources is more than twice that from solar and wind energy combined. Or, the fact, that the US leads the world in installed geothermal capacity with 3086.6 megawatts (MW) currently online in nine states. Today, approximately six million Americans use geothermal energy in their homes. About half of that num-

ber receives electricity from geothermal power plants; another half uses geothermal heat pumps to heat and cool their homes. (http://geo-energy.org | http://geothermal.marin.org) So, as 2010 slowly comes to end, what else can be expected in 2011? According to a report from Deloitte’s Global Energy & Resources (www.deloitte.com) released earlier this year, the energy sector is still likely to experience challenging conditions entering the new year—seems money will always be an issue (even for the geothermal industry, which still has to fully finance all of their projects that are in the works). Fortunately, sustainable energies are predicted to remain pivotal, and more and more industrial sectors (such as solar power) will “trickle down” from industrial use to small business and even residential use. This year alone, US solar power is estimated to have doubled (or will have, by the end of December), with nearly 1,000 MWs installed when factoring in all residential, commercial, and utility scale systems. And, it’s been reported that the US will surpass Germany as the largest market for solar power in the world by 2011; at which time the United States will have an installed capacity of 1.6 gigawatts (www.greentechmedia.com). As for wind power, though related investments have declined as of late, US wind energy production is set to receive a boost from high-wind speeds expected early next year (thanks, La Niña!), at least based on forecast analysis from 3Tier (www.3tier.com). To help with the momentum, this issue we offer our 2011 Wind Buyers Guide, stock full of the latest and greatest wind energy products and developments. Among other topics, we also look at M&A trends (page 8), patent rights (page 30), and some key ingredients for financing renewable energy projects (page 28). Enjoy the read, and all the best in the year to come!

Michelle Froese

news bites Industry sustainability Newly released, “Sustainability in the Process Industry: Integration and Optimization,” by Jiří Klemeš, et al. (2010), explains process integration and optimization, and discusses applications for improving the energy and water efficiency of industrial, as well as non-industrial energy users. Approaches for adapting these methodologies to include the integration of waste and renewable energy sources are also covered. The book contains eight industrialbased case studies and nine testing examples with developed solutions. Details on software tools are also included in this practical guide. Features covered include: • Optimizing goals and application areas within sustainable industrial process design and integration; • Formulating sustainable tasks as optimization problems; • Improving energy efficiency through process integration; • Heat exchange and heat recovery; • Water/mass integration; and • Process integration research results. McGraw Hill Professional www.mhprofessional.com

Energy management at home Powerhouse Dynamics recently released eMonitor, a new home energy management system that, among other things, alerts users to critical items with their power usage and displays a real-time, circuit level view of power consumption, phantom power loss, and one’s carbon footprint. eMonitor easily connects to a home’s circuit panel and instantly enables users to: • See where power is used & wasted. The only way to control energy use is to know exactly where it’s going. eMonitor shows exactly how much power each appliance uses and how much money each costs over time. • Lower electric bills up to 30%. Ongoing analysis of actual energy consumption generates specific recommendations to help reduce usage and save money. • Receive alerts by e-mail or text. Be warned if appliances are left on, if circuits are nearing their capacity, if there is danger of electrical fire, or if home medical equipment is off. • Monitor appliance performance with continuous diagnostics. eMonitor proactively notifies users if the refrigerator, clothes dryer, dishwasher, or other systems—including solar PV systems—require maintenance, to ensure maximum ongoing efficiency. Powerhouse Dynamics | www.powerhousedynamics.com

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Classical Rationales Propel Solar Industry M&A By C Thomas Paschall (left) & Henry Scott (right)

ecent statistics and deal trends reveal that the solar M&A market is undergoing robust activity as 2010 draws to an end. Notwithstanding that renewable energy M&A as a whole decreased in Q3, 2010 as compared to Q2 2010 (139 transactions, 36 disclosed totaling $4.04 billion in Q3 versus 205 transactions, 56 disclosed totaling $5.77 billion in Q2 2010), the pace of solar M&A actually increased, hurdling back to the sizeable deal volume seen in Q1. In Q3, 2010, solar M&A almost doubled the volume of Q2, 2010, with $585.65 million in disclosed transactions compared to Q2’s $298 million (12 transactions in Q3, eight of which were disclosed, compared to 11 transactions, two of which were disclosed in Q2, 2010). Although a small number of large-scale transactions disclosed to the markets can distort the underlying quarterly data, it remains that solar M&A is advancing on many fronts. These transactions are largely precipitated by what appear to be classical rationales for M&A including vertical and horizontal integration, geographic diversification, technology acquisition, economies of scale, and entry into new markets. With Feed-in-Tariff rates under assault in Europe and the US, and §1603 cash grant possibly extinct in the near future, understanding the rationales and trends driving the brisk pace of solar M&A is critical to determining whether such activity will continue at the same rate and predicting if the objectives of the buyers and sellers will be realized.

Solar M&A trends and motivations

1. Vertical integration. The most compelling dynamic driving large-scale solar M&A transactions is the increasingly pervasive maneuver by upstream panel and equipment makers to acquire downstream project generation assets. Solar panel makers, in particular, have emerged as the winning bidders in a number of high-profile auctions, outpacing suspected bids by various funds and independent power producers. The consensus view is these acquisitions are occurring for the strategic purpose of panel makers assuring a long-term end market for their products. Prominent examples of such transactions include: Sharp’s recently announced acquisition of Recurrent for up to $305 million (subject to closing balance sheet adjustments) expected to close by year-end; First Solar’s $297 million acquisition of NextLight, which closed in July; and, First Solar’s $400 million acquisition of OptiSolar in 2009. The apparent dominance of panel makers in auctions of solar energy generation portfolios, with fully commercialized projects and/or late-stage development pipelines, has meant other active bidders for solar project assets have focused on middle market asset selections and bilateral negotiation to achieve their acquisition objectives. In addition, the demand for late-stage project portfolios (i.e. with approved PPAs, interconnection agreements, and permits in place) has triggered surging demand for the management and project talent teams that have developed these assets as panel makers find themselves needing to acquire project development expertise at least through COD. 2. Geographic diversification. Based on the divergent policy incentives, domestically and internationally, both strategic and financial buyers of solar projects and the equipment makers are pursuing geographic diversification. Project acquirers are seeking the highest Feed-in-Tariff rates (e.g. through acquisitions of project pipelines in Ontario, Canada as happened with Sharp’s purchase of Recurrent), and the most green-friendly legislative dispositions. Equipment makers are looking to ensure access to diverse markets and seeking to obtain the lowest cost manufacturing capabilities. In Ontario, in particular, the domestic content requirement associated with the Feed-in-Tariff has forced panel makers and installation companies to outsource panel assembly and equipment procurement to companies with a local presence in Ontario.

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3. Emergence of utility scale solar. Recent studies have characterized 2010 as the year that will be recognized as the official kickoff of the commercialization of utility scale solar projects. In 2010, more than 20 utility projects are expected to come online. Additional large-scale commercial PV projects are expected to achieve commercial operation in the near future, including the 45 MW Avenal project in California. Up to 80 MW of CSP-based projects are also expected to come online in 2010 with a substantial pipeline in place for the future. Utility scale solar projects have become more economical as a result of the long-term downtrend in solar panel pricing. In addition, these projects are attractive to large corporate conglomerates and power producers who can afford the hefty capital investments to develop and construct such projects. 4. Technology driven acquisitions. Competing technologies in the solar market are also shaping the M&A marketplace. While project finance investors have shown a willingness to lend to a variety of solar technologies, it’s becoming increasingly clear that different technologies are better suited for different types of project sizes, climate characteristics, and off-take arrangements. Consequently, certain large players in the industry have adopted a diversification strategy, adopting technologies as needed to match project economics and environmental characteristics. Manufacturers and investors alike continue to watch fluctuations in the prices for components, finished products, and electricity prices carefully. An abundance of seed money in the cleantech space means there are a number of young companies with promising technologies available for acquisition. Predictions for future solar M&A activity

The classical M&A rationales will continue to impact solar M&A for the foreseeable future with panel makers continuing to make aggressive acquisitions of project assets and equipment makers pursuing similar strategies to a lesser degree. Smaller developers will look to use M&A as an exit strategy, instead of owning and operating their projects, as larger companies will have greater expertise and capacity to procure project financing. Despite the carnage in the panel supply industry resulting from steep long-term drops in module pricing, there has been recent firming of panel prices linked to the demand for panels in Ontario, Canada and Europe, as well as the growing US market. It is likely there will be a continued emergence of new low-cost panel suppliers looking to have their panels added to the list of known “financeable” panel makers (particularly from China). Distressed acquisitions of panel suppliers, as well as project developers lacking the capital to complete their projects may occur. The solar equipment and servicing industries remain fragmented and ripe for additional consolidation so makers of inverters, mounting systems, combiner boxes, chemicals used in solar panels, as well as EPC contractors and O&M providers will continue to engage in M&A transactions. Federal and state legislation in the US will be monitored with keen interest as the fate of the §1603 cash grant, Feed-in-Tariff legislation, and RPS standards continue to be key factors influencing solar M&A activity. Overall, a seller-friendly market has emerged in the US for sales of advanced solar projects, and it will be intriguing to see how long the sellers’ market continues as buyers continue to have genuine reasons for acquiring solar assets. Competition for PPAs may have already led to many lower-priced PPAs not being financeable, which may lead to future distressed M&A opportunities. C Thomas Paschall is a senior associate in the Global Corporate Group and Henry Scott is an associate in the Global Project Finance Group, both at Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP. Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP | www.milbank.com

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solar energy

Solar Project Bonds & Corporate Liquidity By Tuan Pham & Michael Holland

ention the solar industry to the average person, and he or she likely considers the environmental, renewable, or “green” aspects of solar power. For many in the solar industry, technological prospects, maybe even electricity prices, come to mind. But, for a lonely few, mention of the solar industry elicits cost of debt and corporate liquidity concerns. It is this concern over the cost of solar project debt, as well as concern about the valuation of solar companies, that is the focus here. To begin, the solar industry is quite capital-intensive with most of the capital being invested upfront (during construction of the solar-generating facility), and with relatively little capital invested after the project is operating. For the purposes of this discussion, perhaps the best analogy is between a solar-generating facility and a home with a mortgage. Much like a mortgage on a home, the value of a solar-generating facility derives from the monthly payments and the mortgage rate that an owner is willing to pay—the monthly payments are the amount paid for electricity under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or a Feed-in-Tariff (FIT), and the mortgage rate is the cost of debt. As shown in the following equation, unrealistic assumptions about the cost of capital obfuscate the true value of a solar-generating facility.

Second, equity comprises almost all of the capital in the solar industry. Consequently, equity investors are more sophisticated than bond investors when it comes to solar. But, despite equity investors’ deeper understanding, solar stocks are some of the most volatile in the equity markets. To offset this volatility, investors must demand premium returns. Given this demand, even though the cash flows from solar projects are more stable than those of solar panel manufacturers, does it really make sense for a would-be bond investor to require only 6% returns, as most solar developers would like to believe? Something like that may work in Europe, where governments effectively guarantee project cash flows through their FITs, but not in the US, where the government does not guarantee project cash flows (the government loan guarantee takes a very long time and has yet to be applied successfully to a solar generating project). Instead, US utility scale solar project economics rely on the feasibility of PPAs, which are supposed to accurately reflect prevailing costs of capital. But, based on the number of uncompleted utility scale projects that litter the US solar market, it’s clear the solar industry lacks the understanding and discipline to provide knowledgeable investors what they want. Corporate liquidity: solar project bonds are not working capital

SOLAR FACILITY VALUE

(PPA OR FIT RATE) X ELECTRICITY PRODUCED COST OF CAPITAL

Solar project bonds

Most solar industry participants underestimate the cost of debt for solar projects. As a result, developers (especially those with low-priced PPAs), who need to find a source of debt that is larger and cheaper than what banks are willing to provide, have begun to discuss the possibility of “solar project bonds.” But, rather than providing a clear path to cheaper debt for the US solar industry, the discussion of solar project bonds winds deep into uncharted territory. First, the issuance of a solar project bond is an exception, rather than a rule. SunPower’s Montalto project in Italy recently received investment-grade ratings on its debt; however, this is unlikely to be repeated, at least in the US. In fact, to date, the closest the capital markets have come to institutionally placing solar project debt has been through bank syndications in Europe. Remember, because the European solar market is much more mature than the US solar market, European banks know significantly more about solar assets than any US-based bond investors. Also, bear in mind, most of the European solar market operates under FITs, as opposed to PPAs that predominate in the US solar industry. For this reason alone, the interest rate on a US solar project bond should be more expensive than the interest rates currently available from sophisticated banks. Of course, global interest rates are at historical lows, and bond investors are grasping for yield anywhere that they can find it; so, why not issue a solar project bond? Consider the following: will US-based bond investors know how to value solar project assets? Should the solar project bond be part of a technology portfolio, or an energy portfolio? Is the placement of a solar project bond repeatable, especially if it relies on a government loan guarantee (which carries its own set of complications)? If not repeatable, but still issued, will there be a liquid trading market for these one-off solar project bonds? What will be the ongoing credit quality of the power purchaser?

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Because solar project debt is issued on a non-recourse basis, the only collateral comes from the assets of the project. (The project entity remains completely separate from any project vendors, except for the warranties on equipment and services.) Therefore, even if a solar project bond could be issued, the issuance of the bond would not mean a vendor has the working capital (cash) necessary to buy the materials to sell into the project. For instance, a vendor who intends to sell 10 MW of turnkey systems at a cost of $4/watt must have at least $40 million of cash in the bank to recognize the sale of those systems. This additional corporate liquidity (cash) comes at a price. Reconciliation of solar project bonds & corporate liquidity

As expected with any nascent industry, there are more questions than well-reasoned answers. These unanswered questions result in higher project interest rates than what most developers are willing to acknowledge. Additionally, vendors into solar projects must meet their own set of significant capital requirements. Ultimately, all of these factors create numerous disconnects with respect to financing solar projects—the divergence between project finance and corporate finance is but one (albeit important) disconnect that exists. As a result, these disparate funding silos must be reconciled if the solar industry is to meet its growth expectations, at least in the US. Recognizing the capital intensity of the solar industry is most akin to that of the energy, industrial, and homebuilding sectors is a good place to start. PowerFin Partners is a manager of institutional funds for solar projects throughout North America. PowerFin Parners www.powerfinpartners.com

Since the summer of 2010 you have played the game, you have sent your submissions and shown PV some love.

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solar energy

Banking on Solar? What you should know before betting on a warranty By Tony Foster

ABC Medical Corporate Headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona with Upsolar Modules

onsumers rarely make significant purchases without considering the benefits of investing in a long-term warranty. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new home appliance, a piece of office equipment, or an automobile, there is something to be said for the peace of mind that comes with knowing there is a low- or no-cost safety net in place to cover unforeseen issues stemming from manufacturing defects and/or excessive product degradation over time. With large-scale systems setting organizations back hundreds of thousands of dollars or more, solar PV technologies are no exception to the warranty rule. As utility and distributed generation projects continue to gain traction around the world, installation owners are increasingly turning an eye to the importance of implementing long-term insurance coverage.

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On the surface, all warranties might look the same but as more and more players enter the solar arena, the bankability of the warranties offered should be placed under the microscope. Indeed, as one begins to peel back the layers of promises and examine the real value underneath, it is apparent that some policies provide owners with nothing more than a stack of paperwork. So, what's most important to ask when investigating solar warranties? Here are a few key questions that can help evaluate and authenticate a decision. â&#x20AC;˘ Am I starting with the right product? A warranty should be imposed with confidence that it will rarely, if ever, be required. With this in mind, customers should always begin the process of module selection by concentrating on products from trusted technology providers. Consider the amount of time spent selecting a new television or a computerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;items that are regularly replaced. Conversely, solar PV systems are expected to produce for decades, all the while sustaining abuse from the outside elements. It is truly imperative to entrust oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solar needs to a provider committed to technological quality and longterm product stability. â&#x20AC;˘ Does the product have appropriate support? A barrage of solar module producers entered the PV industry in recent years, and logic dictates not all will survive. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already seen the financial downturn sink a plethora of manufacturers, and more are likely to fall in the coming years. Enacting a warranty on a solar system essentially equates to having faith the technology provider will still be in existence decades down the road. â&#x20AC;˘ What happens to the value of a module warranty when the organization behind it no longer exists? For the vast majority, the plan is nullified, leaving system owners unsupported in the event of damage or malfunctions. It is no wonder financial lenders have grown increasingly cynical when presented with large-scale projects, hesitant to lend credence to a solar providerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to deliver on a long-term warranty. A few suppliers have backstopped their warranties with insurance to protect customers from this risk. â&#x20AC;˘ If a warranty is insured, when does the coverage begin? Policyholders might assume system coverage takes effect the moment their signature is inked at the bottom of the contract. The reality is many plans require a waiting period, with some as long as five years, before the insurance actually kicks in. Though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true that the majority of issues with solar PV installations result from years of system wear and tear, a host of unexpected complications can arise within the first few years of use. Before committing to a plan, customers should take the time to read the fine print. If a gap in insurance protection is undesirable, plans are available to provide system owners with full coverage from day one.

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In the rapidly changing world of solar, there are no guarantees. Fortunately, a handful of solar module providers are now providing additional backing from reputable financial establishments to provide customers with increased security. This means that even if unforeseen circumstances drive the solar provider out of business, system owners will receive coverage. The best of these policies will provide uninterrupted coverage for the duration of the warranty term. In a world full of uncertainties, the added bankability afforded through PV system warrantiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;particularly when backed by sound financial partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;allows consumers and lenders alike to take comfort in knowing theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made the safest bet possible with their hefty solar investments. Tony Foster serves as sales director, North America for Upsolar, an international supplier of solar PV modules.

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solar energy

Solar Energy and the Impacts on Water Supply By Eric L Garner

lthough increasing the use of solar energy can limit the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions, facilities that harness the sun’s energy in the California desert impact another natural resource that is difficult to come by in the arid landscape. Solar facilities can consume significant amounts of water, potentially impacting aquifers that are already over-pumped. In desert areas, the potential impact to groundwater basins from renewable energy projects has prompted California and federal agencies to develop new policies and regulations designed to protect native water resources and limit pumping activities. This has made securing a water source for these projects and getting them approved more difficult. Because large-scale solar plants are, by necessity, located in sunny, dry areas, they almost always rely on groundwater. In some cases, the question of whether those groundwater basins are hydrologically connected to the Colorado River raises another complex issue for solar projects. The legal issues associated with water in California are complex and rich in history. Understanding the hydrology, geography, and the legal framework of those issues is essential for developers seeking project approval.

Limited water supplies

Solar technologies vary in terms of their reliance on water. Photovoltaic and dry-cooled thermal projects, for instance, use relatively modest amounts of water. Wet-cooled solar thermal projects use considerably more. Developers of all projects will quickly find that water in the California desert is extremely limited because low rainfall makes recharge of underground aquifers occur at a slow rate. In some cases, groundwater rights to aquifers, such as the Mojave Basin in the Mojave Desert, have already been allocated by the courts through adjudications, leaving very limited water for new users. Most of the groundwater basins in California are un-adjudicated and are governed by the common law principle of the doctrine of overlying rights. A key principle of California water law is that landowners whose property sits atop a groundwater basin are entitled to pump water for “reasonable and beneficial use” on their overlying land. Despite this basic tenet of California water law, several solar project proponents have experienced significant resistance from state agencies to pumping groundwater for power plant cooling purposes on their property.

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Staff of these agencies are making a tremendous push to require the use of treated wastewater, frequently referred to as reclaimed or recycled water, for power plant cooling. Accessing that source can be difficult, though, because recycled water infrastructure is limited and the desert regions are dotted with thinly populated cities to generate significant amounts of wastewater. One of the largest solar projects being proposed—Stirling Energy’s $2.2 billion Solar Two project—is seeking to use recycled water. A recent analysis by the US Bureau of Land Management found that Solar Two would require 10.4 million gallons of water each year to wash solar panels, provide dust control, and support other plant operations. According to the draft environmental impact statement released earlier this year by the US Bureau of Land Management and the California Energy Commission, Solar Two’s water needs cannot be met by the region's existing surface or groundwater because the aquifer is over-drafted and no new well permits are being granted. Tucked in California’s southeast corner in the Colorado Desert, Stirling’s concentrated solar project is expected to have a 30,000 solar dish system across more than 6,100 acres of federal land, according to the draft environmental impact statement. The plant, once completed, would send electricity to homes and businesses in the San Diego metropolitan area about 100 miles to the west. At full capacity, Solar Two could generate enough electricity to power more than a quarter-million homes. Stirling has proposed to use recycled water from the nearby town of Seeley to meet its demand. If all goes as planned, Stirling would fund the upgrading of the town’s wastewater treatment plant so the water meets state requirements for reuse. The company would connect the treatment plant with the solar plant via a nearly 12-mile underground water pipeline, according to the draft environmental impact statement. The river’s inﬂuence

Another issue in California is concerns related to Colorado River resources. The US Bureau of Reclamation has proposed defining hydrologically connected groundwaters to the river, which snakes along the southeastern border of California, by an “accounting surface” regulation that would limit river water use in absence of a federal Colorado River water entitlement. The proposed accounting surface in some areas extends more than 50 miles from the river, impacting proposed solar projects with seemingly no apparent connection to the Colorado River. The proposal is currently being revised, but is based on the concept that since California’s entitlement from the Colorado River is limited and groundwater wells connected to the river are considered to be diverting water from the river itself, any additional diversions must be within the California entitlement. Currently, there are three proposed projects that would fall within the 50-mile border, each one using from 300 acre-feet a year up to 1,600 acre-feet. One acre-foot equals 326,000 gallons of water, or enough for roughly two typical households per year. Although one of those projects would use a “wet cooling” technology that requires more water, the others would use the more water-efficient but more expensive “dry cooling” technology. In July of this year, the California Energy Commission weighed in on the issue of water and solar projects in the desert, articulating its stance on protecting native water resources. The commission applauded the proponents of one of those proposed projects for cooperating with the commission and electing to use air-cooled condensers instead of the originally proposed wet-cooling system. Although the decision to use dry cooling drastically reduced water demand for the project, it did not eliminate water-related impacts altogether. Indeed, the commission imposed a set of conditions on the project to offset any potential impacts on the groundwater basin that are hydrologically connected to the Colorado River. Rules for securing entitlements for the water to cool and clean solar plants are still evolving. Carefully evaluating the proposed water source, the quantity of the available supply, and the related water right is critical before initiating the permitting process. A partner and water rights attorney at Best Best & Krieger LLP, Eric L Garner is also an author of “California Water II,” a guide to the law and policies that guide the state’s natural resource.

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Grid-tie inverters The new Schneider Electric Conext Grid-Tie Inverter has been redesigned to offer improved reliability and a low, installed cost through ease of installation and integrated features. The Conext inverter is a proven, high-frequency design in a compact enclosure and may be installed as a single inverter, for a single PV array, or in a multiple-inverter configuration for large PV systems. The Xantrex XW MPPT 80 600 is an innovative solar charge controller that accepts array voltages up to 600V, significantly reducing system wiring gauges and conduit costs. It is a PV charge controller that tracks the maximum power point of a PV array to deliver the maximum available current for charging batteries. When charging, the XW MPPT 80 600 regulates the battery voltage and output current based on the amount of energy available from the PV array and present state-of-charge of the battery. Schneider Electric | www.schneider-electric.com/renewable-energies

Solar PV ultra-fast cure

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This fast cure silicone adhesive sealant is used for bonding and sealing photovoltaic module components including PV rail bonding, PV frame sealing, and for junction box adhesion. The PV 8303 provides an ultra-fast cure for fully automated processes using a condensation cure. The sealant is a two-part product using the PV-8300 Base providing a customized cure rate. The Dow Corning PV-8303 has a UL rating of UL 94 HB; RTI 1050 C, and is ideal when fully automated production is desired. It delivers better durability and strength for rail bonding, frame sealing, and junction box adhesion even under demanding outdoor exposures typical of PV applications. This product joins the PV-8030 Adhesive where room-temperature curing is preferred and the PV8301 originally introduced in 2008.

The Nordson Corporation edge seal melter and application system processes and dispenses cost-effective liquid butyl to help protect solar panels from water ingress. The Nordson system—comprised of melters, booster station, and an applicator—delivers a uniform rectangular bead pattern for highly accurate edge definition. Easily integrated into most production processes, the Nordson edge seal system is an automated in-line means to reduce labor and material costs and improve manufacturing efficiency and product quality. Traditional PV module encapsulants are not the best moisture barriers for thin-film panels. The addition of an edge seal of solar-grade butyl provides an excellent UV-stable moisture barrier. The Nordson edge seal system incorporates two VersaDrum bulk melters with auto changeover for uninterrupted butyl supply. The melters feed a PS metering station, which maintains constant pressure as pressure losses are common with high-viscosity materials such as butyls. The butyl is then fed to the VDK gear metering applicator for precise point-ofapplication control.

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Certiﬁed solar water heating systems Solar Skies Mfg., LLC has received OG-300 System Certification and License from the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) for 35 solar water heating systems. The OG-300 certification is based on the successful design review and analytical evaluation of components meeting the standards specified by SRCC. Federal and state incentives require an OG-300 certified system when installing a solar hot water package. By installing a Solar Skies OG-300 certified system, customers are assured the system they are investing in is in compliance with the requirements set forth by SRCC and will provide maximum performance. The Solar Skies solar water heating system offers flat plate solar collectors, stainless steel or glass lined storage tanks, drain back tanks, a complete line of mounting hardware, as well as installation kits and components for residential and commercial applications. Solar Skies Mfg., LLC manufactures solar thermal collectors and distributes solar tanks and components for both residential and commercial use. The SRCC rated collectors and solar tanks are offered in a multiple of series and a wide range of sizes. Solar Skies Mfg., LLC | www.solarskies.com

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Choosing the Right Battery for Renewable Energy Applications By Ronald Paredes & Dean Middleton

enewable energy applications present several unique challenges to batteries. Charging sources are often intermittent in their nature and batteries typically provide a means of energy storage that provide a constant supply of power to electrical loads, regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Loading conditions can change from day to day and the battery may be subjected to deep discharges at low- to high-discharge currents for extended periods of time. This means that batteries for renewable energy systems, such as solar or wind power, must be able to withstand discharge currents in excess of 200 ampere and currents that are as low as a few tenths of an ampere.

Battery speciﬁcation: efﬁciency & durability are key

Lead acid batteries are the most common choice for energy storage in power systems that utilize renewable energy charging sources. Considered a mature and proven technology, lead acid battery technology is well understood and found in a wide range of applications, both off-grid and grid-tie. There are as many lead acid battery types, designs, and sizes as there are applications. Choosing the correct battery for a particular application is crucial to the efficiency and durability of an energy storage solution for renewable energy and backup power. Lead acid batteries are divided into two primary groups: shallow cycle and deep cycle. Shallow cycle batteries, also referred to as automotive or starting, lighting & ignition (SLI) batteries, are designed to provide brief bursts of high current over a very short period of time. Automotive batteries are not appropriate for renewable energy applications and will fail prematurely because they are not designed to withstand the regular deep discharge and recharge cycles typical of renewable energy systems. Only deep cycle batteries, designed and optimized for regular deep discharge and recharge cycles, should be considered for renewable energy applications given their superior performance capabilities under the challenging conditions typically associated with renewable energy systems. Deep cycle batteries: superior performance saves operating costs

Automotive batteries are often selected for renewable energy systems due to their initial low price, but are not actually cost effective over the long-term as they need to be replaced more often than deep cycle batteries. The graph, “Deep Cycle versus Automotive,” compares the cycle life of an automotive battery to a deep cycle battery.

As can be seen, automotive batteries have a significantly lower cycle life than deep cycle batteries. Although automotive batteries do present an initial cost advantage, this advantage quickly diminishes due to the battery’s low cycle life. To determine the true cost effectiveness of a battery in any application, one needs to look at its cost per charge-discharge cycle. When used in a deep cycle application, it is not uncommon for automotive batteries to have up to five times the cost per cycle compared to a true deep cycle battery. In addition to the cost per cycle, there are other expenses incurred by a battery replacement that cannot be quantified by the cost of the batteries alone. These include labor and logistical costs, as well as potential downtime of the system due to premature battery failure. “My experience of years of off-grid living and design consultation is that reliable, cost-effective power storage is essential for off-grid, renewable energy power systems. Without the proper battery other system components will not perform to capacity and be problem prone,” says Bob Skinner energy systems design and sales at Hire Electric Inc.’s solar division in Oregon. “True deep cycle, lead acid batteries are the best for these types of applications because they offer a long cycle life and the lowest lifetime cost of any energy storage technology currently available. They are, by that criteria, far superior to the often easily available and sometimes lower initial cost of automotive starting batteries.” IEC Testing: the international standard for battery performance tests

In their battery selection process, operators and installers for renewable energy systems should take into account the true cost per cycle of the battery. Independent performance testing according to international standards help buyers obtain relevant information about a battery’s cycling capability. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61427 standard tests the battery’s ability to perform in renewable energy applications where the battery frequently operates at partial states of charge and at extreme temperatures. Some battery manufacturers have their products tested to the IEC 61427 standard by an objective and independent laboratory. This universal standard prepared by the IEC determines the requirements of the secondary batteries used in photovoltaic systems, and the typical methods of test used for the verification of battery performances. Selecting deep cycle batteries tested to the IEC 61427 standard will ensure the best overall performance at lowest lifecycle cost in a renewable energy application. Making the right decision

There are many types of lead acid, deep cycle batteries offered on the global market, and lead acid, deep cycle storage products vary in design and size. By evaluating the battery performance characteristics considering the factors outlined above, buyers will gain valuable insights needed to make the right decision and find a battery perfectly suited to their specific renewable energy application. After all, choosing the right battery for a renewable energy or backup power system will help lower a system’s total cost of ownership by increasing system stability and efficiency, as well as minimizing downtime due to premature battery failure or replacement. Ronald Paredes is the technical product manager, and Dean Middleton is the director of renewable energy sales, Americas, for Trojan Battery Company. Trojan Battery Company | www.trojanbattery.com

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Structural Adhesives A bonding alternative for alternative energy equipment By Ian Quarmby

lternative energy applications are a key focus in today’s marketplace, creating new jobs and reducing the world’s dependence on fossil fuels. Solar and wind energy are garnering interest from consumers looking for cheaper, environmentally friendly power sources. To make these methods even more attractive to the end-user, energy equipment manufacturers are seeking to lower production costs while increasing product reliability. One area of potential gain is in the choice of fastening systems. Although mechanical fasteners are commonly used for securing PV and wind turbine panels, structural adhesives are becoming a popular alternative. Structural adhesive beneﬁts

Structural adhesive bonding is an established joining method that has been used in the automotive market for 25 years without corrosion issues. Structural adhesives offer the following benefits: reduced stress points, leaks, and corrosion; resistance to extreme environmental conditions; and, enhanced sealing. Metal-bonding adhesives are used in applications such as aluminum-skinned satellite dishes, commercial signage, and land-based military transport vehicles where thermally induced stresses and wind loads create fatigue conditions. Structural acrylic adhesives offer high shear strength (from 1,000 psi to 4,000 psi) over a wide temperature range (-40°C to 170°C), making them as strong as welding and most other conventional fastening methods. Unlike screws, bolts or rivets, which concentrate the stress at the point of attachment, adhesives spread the stress over the entire bond area. Adhesives act as a sealant by keeping out moisture, and they compensate for dimensional irregularities by filling in gaps on poorly fitting parts. Furthermore, structural adhesives offer a process-friendly solution. Minimum surface preparation is required. There is no need to pre-drill holes or fill in over screw heads, and re-work caused by burning from welding operations is eliminated. PV panel applications

Solar panel construction offers many opportunities for structural adhesives. Adhesives can be applied between the glass and the metallic or composite frame, and are also used to attach the frame to the rack. In many systems, the bolts connecting the array to the racking and tracking systems require continual maintenance to ensure the operating integrity of the system. Reducing maintenance checks by using structural adhesives reduces costs, allowing a portion of the savings to be passed along to the consumer, which in turn makes solar panel systems a much more attractive energy option. Mechanical fasteners can also loosen over time due to wind-induced and/or structural vibration. Structural adhesives not only eliminate the prob-

Disconnect combiners

lem of loosening fasteners, but also the need for maintenance followups. Structural adhesives also eliminate the weight of mechanical fasteners and improve stress distribution. And, huge inventories of bolts, washers, and screws can be replaced with one structural adhesive kit.

SolarBOS has announced the addition of 100 and 200 amp disconnects to their popular Disconnect Combiner box product line. The complete range of solutions now includes 55, 100, 150, 200, and 245 amp disconnects, and these can be specified with up to 36 input circuits in NEMA-3, 3R, 4 and 4X enclosures. SolarBOS Disconnect Combiners incorporate an integrated 600 VDC load-break switch into the combiner box, allowing system integrators to greatly simplify the design and installation of a PV system. Customers can configure Disconnect Combiners to match any project with SolarBOS’ online “product configurator.” SolarBOS www.solarbos.com | www.solarbos.com/products.php?cat=54&prod=14

Wind turbine application

Structural adhesives are also finding acceptance in the manufacture of wind turbine equipment. In addition to offering reduced weight, structural acrylic adhesives have proven to reduce assembly time and corrosion protection. A better bonding system

As environmentally friendly energy sources become more popular, manufacturers will be looking for less expensive, more viable product construction methods. Using structural adhesives in place of mechanical fasteners will enable manufacturers to build a better product faster, more simply and with less cost. There is a big push for corporations to “go green.” Companies are adopting sustainability themes, and their shareholders, employees, and local communities are all interested in environmentally friendly practices. Structural adhesives offer the potential for cost savings, along with the reassurance of product durability and environmental stability. Ian Quarmby is an innovation scientist with LORD Corporation. LORD Corporation is a privately held company that manufactures mechanical devices and electromechanical systems to control vibration, motion, and noise. It also formulates specialty adhesives, coatings, and electronic materials. LORD Corporation | www.lord.com

North American Clean Energy

solar energy

Case Study: Solar Cell Structure Impedes Efﬁciency Structure of all-polymer solar cells yet to be optimized By Harald Ade, Christopher R McNeill & Chris Groves

Test device used to determine current-voltage characteristics.

SALES OFFICE Kipp & Zonen USA Inc. 125 Wilbur Place Bohemia NY 11716 USA Rodney Esposito T: +1 (0) 631 589 2065 ext. 338 F: +1 (0) 631 589 2068 M: +1 (0) 631 786 1 5 58 rodney.esposito@kippzonen.com www.kippzonen.com

ovel soft x-ray characterization methods have revealed two shortcomings of all-polymer solar cells, and help delineate the path for reaching the substantial, intrinsic potential of these materials. The soft x-ray scattering and microscopy experiments utilized the Advanced Light Source in Berkeley, a soft x-ray synchrotron radiation facility. In combination with device characterization and Monte Carlo studies, the relatively low rate of energy conversion in model all-polymer solar cells was found to be caused by the structure of the solar cells themselves: domains of the donor and acceptor polymers utilized are too large or impure, and interfaces between them are not sharp enough. Organic solar cells are becoming increasingly popular because they are potentially cheap to manufacture and can be “painted” or printed onto a variety of surfaces, including flexible films made from the same material as most soda bottles. A large community is researching a number of promising technologies (e.g. polymer/fullerene, polymer/inorganic, all-polymer, and dye sensitized cells), and seeks a deeper understanding of the fundamental structure, operation, and limita-

or Current voltage characteristics for devices that were cold laminated (black) or annealed at 140 °C (red). Resonant soft x-ray reflectivity measured a significant increase in interfacial roughness from 0.68 nm for the cold laminated to 2.6 nm annealed device.

Accurately Monitoring the Performance of your Solar Energy System

To maximize the effectiveness of your solar energy system, you need to know how it is performing. A Kipp & Zonen pyranometer accurately measures the solar radiation available to your system in real time. Comparing this with the power generated allows you to calculate the efficiency of the system. A drop in efficiency indicates the need for cleaning, ageing or a fault, allowing you to schedule preventive maintenance and to monitor your return on investment. Make that difference and contact Kipp & Zonen for the solutions available.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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tions of these devices. The new insight by the team from North Carolina State University and the UK will lead to the creation and use of new approaches in allpolymer device technology to achieve the intrinsic potential of these materials. The active, thin layer in such solar cells has to be simultaneously thick enough (~150-200 nm) to absorb most of the light and have an internal network of electron donating and electron accepting material that is small enough (~10 nm) for that captured energy—known as an exciton—to travel to the interface between the materials where charge separation and conversion electricity can occur. One of the fundamental challenges in the field is to create such networks in a controlled fashion. Conventional tools are often unable to visualize the morphology or to characterize details of the important, often buried, interface between an electron donor and acceptor material. The field frequently advances by “trial and error,” methods that are guided by heuristic principles. Characterization that achieves improved insight can provide significant development shortcuts by providing and guiding rational design and processing strategies. Using advanced charPair distance distribution function for PFB:F8BT blends annealed as indicated. The zero acterization tools at the crossing relates to the domains size and has been determined to be as follows: Advanced Light Source As spun 140 C 160 C 180 C 200 C in Berkeley, substantial ~77 nm ~71 nm ~89 nm ~110 nm ~260 nm In all cases, the domains are larger than the exciton diffusion length, which is ~10 nm, progress has been made in understanding all-poly- contributing to the relatively low power conversion efficiency of these devices. o

mer devices operation. Through a combination of x-ray microscopy, resonant soft x-ray scattering, soft x-ray reflectivity, photoluminescence quenching, device characterization, and Monte Carlo studies, the performance of all-polymer solar cells was shown to be sensitive to interfacial structure. It was also shown that present fabrication methods lack sufficient control over the morphology of the active layer. For the studies of morphology, model polymer blends of the conjugated polymers poly(9,9'-dioctylfluoreneco-bis-N,N'(4,butylphenyl)-bis-N,N'phenyl-1,4-phenylene-diamine) (PFB) and poly(9,9'-dioctylfluorene-co benzothiadiazole) (F8BT) were annealed at different temperatures. The resulting phase separation was studied using resonant soft x-ray scattering and scanning transmission x-ray microscopy. A large dispersion of the domain size was found in all cases with rather impure compositions of the domains in the as cast blends. The observed dominant domain sizes were much larger than the exciton diffusion length for all processing conditions, including annealing at intermediate temperatures that yielded a maximum in device efficiency. Intermixing within these large domains means that not all excitons are lost to recombination; however, this hierarchy of phase separation prevents the creation of “ideal” morphologies of pure domains ~ 10 nm in size by the casting and annealing approach. Therefore, even in the morphology that maximized device performance, some excitons have to travel too far and are lost while some domains are still too intermixed—which hinders charge separation. This contributes to the poor performance of the solar cell devices made from the blend of these polymers and might be indicative of all polymer devices, in general. Other all-polymer based solar cells are presently investigated to see if their low efficiencies are due to this same structural problem. The influence of interface structure on the performance of devices has been investigated using PFB/F8BT bilayer heterojunctions. Resonant soft x-ray reflectivity provided quantitative information on the roughness of the interface as a function of annealing protocol. Only the cold laminated bilayers were sharp, and even mild annealing caused the interface to roughen. The measured roughness was an important input parameter for Monte Carlo simulations, which were used to fit the device’s current-voltage characteristics. Nonequilibrium, sharp interfaces are optimal for charge separation and optimal device performance. The challenge now will be to create small interpenetrating networks with sharp interfaces reliable enough to produce high-efficiency

devices. New fabrication methods will have to be found and might include increased use of block copolymers or processing more incompatible polymers with orthogonal solvents. Research conducted by H. Yan, S. Swaraj, B. Watts, and H. Ade (NCSU); C. Wang (ALS), J. Lüning (SSRL); I. Hwang, C.R. McNeill and N.C. Greenham (University of Cambridge, UK); and C. Groves (Durham University, UK).

Research funding: Department of Energy, Office of Science, Basic Energy Science, Division of Materials Science and Engineering (DEFG02-98ER45737); Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, UK (EP/E051804/1); Cambridge Display Technology Ltd. supplied the materials. Operation of the ALS is supported by the US Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences. North Carolina State University | www.ncsu.edu

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solar energy Slim PV junction box Tyco Electronics introduces one of the smallest junction boxes in the PV industry: the SOLARLOK slim junction box. This 15.5mm by 52mm junction box distributes DC power to a solar panel in a convenient, compact design that offers the least amount of visibility on the back of a panel. The TUV-approved product meets stringent industry requirements—offering a 20-year product-life performance. Targeted applications include two-rail crystalline PV modules and two-rail thin-film PV modules with a 12-amp current rating for crystalline applications and a 3-amp current rating for thin-film applications. The new junction box reduces purchasing costs by offering a total assembly that includes solar-rated cables, which are available in various lengths to suit a wide variety of applications. The assembly also includes IP67-rated SOLARLOK connectors, which produce an audible click to ensure proper installation and include a locking latch feature that meets code requirements. Tyco Electronics | www.te.com/solar

Educate. Innovate. Activate. The Northeast/Mid-Atlantic region represents one of the strongest U.S. markets for current PV installations and one of the most promising for projected growth. PV America 2011 will attract nearly 3,000 buyers, technology experts and industry leaders. Educate yourself and your team on the latest PV technologies and public incentives. Innovate throughout your business by connecting with exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services. Then Activate your new knowledge and partnerships to make the most of solar power.

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Solar fuses for high-amp PV systems The new Cooper Bussmann PVS-R solar fuse provides high-amp ratings with the required fast-acting response to low PV DC faults. The PVS-R fuse is the first fuse of its kind to achieve a UL 2579 listing for “Lowvoltage Fuses—Fuses for Photovoltaic Systems.” With a dual 600Vac/dc rating, the PVS-R fuse is designed to meet the higher amperage levels of today’s larger solar power systems, while withstanding extreme high- and low-ambient temperatures, routine cycling, and opening under low-level fault current conditions. Typical competitive offerings provide only traditional time-delay fuses that are not well-suited for solar power system protection. Unlike AC systems, the available short-circuit current in PV systems is limited and requires the overcurrent protective device to operate effectively on low levels of fault current. For this reason, Cooper Bussmann has conducted extensive research and development of fuses that are specifically designed and tested to address the unique needs of PV systems. Cooper Bussmann also provides time-current curves, which follow as close as possible to actual field applications. Available in ratings from 20 to 600 amps, the PVS-R fuse is well-suited for use in re-combiner boxes and DC safety switches that operate at higher current levels, but experience the same low-level fault current conditions as combiner boxes and PV strings and arrays. Cooper Bussmann www.cooperbussmann.com/PVS-R

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Sputtering targets for CIS/CIGS solar cells Sodium (Na) is an important factor for the efficiency of CIS/CIGS solar cells. By sputtering a layer of sodium doped molybdenum, the amount of sodium in the absorber layer can be controlled exactly and reproduced. For this standard process in the CIS/CIGS production route, PLANSEE offers MoNa sputtering targets with full density, high purity, and a uniform and fine-grained microstructure. Tests, in cooperation with the Swiss EMPA institute, have already proven their benefits in practice: with Na doped molybdenum layers the efficiency of CIGS solar cells could be significantly improved. PLANSEE | www.plansee.com

Solar tracking controller Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) troughs, towers, and Stirling engines can now create more power due to P4Q Electronicsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; new Suntrack 32H solar tracking controller. CSP devices depend upon the accuracy of a controller to keep the sun on their pipes that create steam to move turbines. The Suntrack 32H follows the sun using the most accurate algorithm available. The controller works for both hydraulic and electric motors. Included is an intuitive interface accessed via Ethernet or wirelessly, as well an absolute inclinometer, sun sensor, and temperature sensor in one small package. Other sensors, such as wind meters and encoders, can easily be added by attaching to the controller without ever opening the box.

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Virtual Industries Inc., a supplier of manual vacuum handling solutions, introduces the VWWB-2A series of substrate handling wands. Virtual Industriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ESD-safe Push Button Wand Kit is ideally suited for handling substrates such as individual PV cells during the manufacturing process. The lightweight push-button wand is designed for connection to an in-house continuous vacuum system. Operation is simple: first connect the vacuum hose to a vacuum source and to the rear of the tool, next install the press-fit handling tip that corresponds to the size of the substrate to be handled and, finally, hold the wand handle and gently lay the tip flat onto the substrate surface. The part is now firmly gripped for manual handling. To release it, simply depress the control button. Returning the wand to the stand when not in use shuts off the vacuum supply to conserve energy.

Solar Canada 2010

Virtual Industries Inc. | www.virtual-ii.com

Dec 6-7 in Toronto at SunRise Power Booth #722

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solar energy

Motion control for solar panel scribing measurement

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Providing fully coordinated multi-axis motion control with fast move and settle times for large mass gantry systems, ACS Motion Control has developed a unique real-time networking technology that controls up to 32 fully synchronized axis of motion. Based on the EtherCAT protocol, ACSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MC4Unt system connects multiple MC4U units to integrate up to eight-axis into single network nodes, improving performance and reducing costs. The MC4Unt network system also enables the most advanced servo algorithms such as true gantry with decoupling of center of gravity and yaw, Cartesian cross axis compensation, and adaptive multi-axis control, which often requires access to servo data of multiple axes instantaneously. The capabilities of the MC4Unt system can also be expanded using the ACS SPiiPlus UDMnt single-/dual-axis network Universal Drive Module, the SPiiPlus PDMnt four-axis network Pulse/Direction Interface Module, and the SPiiPlus IOMnt Input Output Module for adding nodes of additional axis and I/Os. ACSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dedicated motion programming language (ACSPL+) that runs on the MC4Unt controllers provides a simple environment for users to program motion.

SunWize Technologies has been selected by Samsung Electronics Co. LTD to introduce and distribute its solar modules to the North American market. The LPC241SM, the first module offered, is available for immediate delivery. The LPC241SM solar module stands out in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketplace with its 15+% module efficiency, higher than any other product in its class. It sets a new benchmark for price/performance and narrows the performance gap against premium priced modules. The superior PTC power density of the LPC241SM provides a competitive edge to installers of residential and commercial systems, as well as higher value to end-users in terms of kWh/$. The quality of Samsung modules is evidenced by a peak power tolerance rating of -0%/+1%, guaranteeing full performance.

SnapNrack PV Mounting releases the newest addition to its Metal Roof Seam Clamp product offering. This new wide jaw version will fit a broader range of metal roof profiles and also incorporates improvements that make assembly even faster. With its patent-pending single-bolt design, the SnapNrack Metal Roof Seam Clamp takes less time to install than competitive products. The same simple design also increases the pull-off strength. When an uplift force is applied to the attachment, the bolt transfers the force to the cam and it grips the seam even tighter. The SnapNrack Metal Roof Seam Clamp will not damage the metal or seam.

SunWize Technologies www.sunwize.com www.sunwize.com/info_center/pdf/ SAMSUNG-solar-module-rev3_9-10.pdf

SnapNrack www.snapnrack.com

ACS Motion Control | www.acsmotioncontrol.com

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Sensors Unlimited, Inc., a part of Goodrich Corporation, has announced their high-resolution, shortwave infrared (SWIR) area and linescan cameras are being used to improve the manufacturing yield of PV cells. SWIR technology is well-suited to monitor the quality of solar thin-films, concentrated PV, and crystalline cells to maximize efficiency of the solar cell manufacturing process through final assembly of the completed modules. The InGaAs-based SWIR cameras, which operate between 0.9 to 1.7 microns, are ideal for inspecting silicon boules and wafers due to the materialâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transparency beyond 1.2 microns. In machine vision applications, Goodrich shortwave infrared sensors can reveal voids in silicon boules, bricks, and ingots before they are sliced into wafers to produce mono- and multi-crystalline solar cells. They can also detect hidden cracks by mapping stress in silicon wafers and films made for solar collectors. SWIR cameras can further spot defects in the material and/or saw marks inside or on the opposite side of a silicon wafer. By applying forward bias to cells, the SWIR cameras are used to gauge cell efficiency and uniformity. This not only aids improvement of cell manufacturing processes, but also helps in matching cells with similar efficiencies to assemble into modules. The latter step prevents the loss of energy from the stronger cells, which would be lost in heating the inefficient cells. Sensors Unlimited, Inc. | www.sensorsinc.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 26 Untitled-1 1

2010

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Transformerless inverters The KACO transformerless (TL) blueplanet inverters in power classes of 6400 watts and 7600 watts are on their way to the Americas. The National Electric Code, Article 690 (NEC 690.35) was amended to allow for ungrounded PV arrays, therefore, enabling the use of these phenomenal machines. KACO is well-known for transformerless inverters throughout Europe and will steer the American solar markets with innovative TL products, as well. Not only will these products offer enhanced CEC efficiency numbers, but they will also help PV systems produce more kWhs than ever before. KACO New Energy | www.kaco-newenergy.com

Higher energy output for PV systems GeckoVoltaik’s iliofix is a single-axle tracking system for flat roofs. Its uniqueness is the tracking of the rail systems. An astronomic standard setting allows for an optimum angle setting to the sunlight. The system contains two sensors at the outer edges of a module in the module field, which prevent the behind-located module rows from being thrown into shadow during the back-tracking. The elevated track of a PV system with ilioflex will generate an extra output of 20%, according to conservative estimates given by GeckoVoltaik Systems. The higher initial investments can be earned at a factor of four as a minimum. For the system, the extremely short assembly time is worth noting: the assembly time ranges at below two man hours per kWp. Furthermore, the low area weight of less than 10 kg/m2 roof area (including panels) allows the installation of the tracking system on commercial flat roofs with critical static conditions. With ilioflex even possible leakages that have been typical for roof-penetrating systems in the past are no longer a reason to cancel a profitable PV system.

Will your module last? Put it to the test. Your company may be a market leader, but are your products ready for the long haul? One sure way to know is to employ Atlas testing products and services designed specifically for the solar energy market. With our proprietary Atlas 25PLUS Comprehensive Test Program, we can determine how PV modules will stand up to UV, salt spray corrosion, moisture, heat, freezing temperatures and extreme outdoor conditions. Put the elements to work for you and gain a reputation for reliability and durability. Visit www.solardurability.com today to request a free white paper on the Atlas 25PLUS program.

GeckoVoltaik AG | www.geckovoltaik.com

PV array mounting Zep System III from Zep Solar offers the fastest and least expensive way to mount PV arrays on commercial or residential flat roofs. Zep System III installs without the use of tools and is rapidly constructed with a series of drop-in, quarter turn, and snapin connections. Zep System III eliminates the need for mounting rails, requires very few parts, and simultaneously accomplishes structural and grounding connections. Designed for ballasted, attached, adhered, or hybrid attachment applications, Zep System III can be adapted to a wide range of wind loading and seismic requirements. Optional wind guards and seismic bracing allow Zep System III to be installed in seismic zones and in areas with wind speeds up to 120 mph. With far less complexity than conventional systems, Zep System III delivers both labor and logistics savings for commercial and residential flat roof PV projects.

Introducing the new Atlas XR360 PV Module Weather Durability Testing System Combining the advancements in environmental chamber and xenon solar simulation technology, the XR360 comes in three models with capacity to test more than 90% of current PV modules. • Chamber is equipped with four high performance water-cooled xenon arc lamps • Full climatic functionality • Expanded capability to run IEC environmental tests

Zep Solar | www.zepsolar.com North American Clean Energy

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15 Key Ingredients Canadian Solar Industries Association

SOLAR CANADA 2010

to Renewable Energy Project Finance By Dick Talbert

A CanSIA’s Annual Conference & Exposition

Toronto, Ontario—December 6–7, 2010 MINGLE WITH INFLUENTIAL INDUSTRY LEADERS! n HEAR FROM PIVOTAL ELECTED AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS! n CATCH UP ON NEW AND UNFOLDING DEVELOPMENTS! n SEE WHAT’S NEW AND EXCITING IN YOUR INDUSTRY! n UPGRADE YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS AT ONE OF MANY SOLAR WORKSHOPS DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND! n MEET AND NETWORK WITH YOUR SOLAR COLLEAGUES FROM CANADA AND ABROAD:

t Decision Makers and Trend setters t Solar Pioneers and Cutting Edge Upstarts t Solar Product and Service Providers t Customers t Future Employers and Employees

www.cansia.ca Be the early bird. REGISTER TODAY!

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

lthough financing comes in all shapes and sizes for wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects, there are basic ingredients that investors use for evaluation. The following items are generally required for due diligence after an initial review of a project to see if it is within the general scope of an investor’s parameters. It is, therefore, important a developer be prepared to provide these. The items can apply to various forms of financing including PPA’s, FIT contracts, debt, equity, and acquisition. 1. Executive summary. Ideally this is one to two pages and gives a highlevel overview of the project including developer experience, site control information, PPA or off-take terms, Interconnect status, system description, EPC experience, permit and approval status, projected capital structure and needs, and proposed O&M. 2. Sponsor & EPC resumes. These should show contact information, prior project experience, website URL, financial strength, bonding capability, and other relevant data. Investors rely heavily upon a project team, and want to be confident the team can execute a project through to completion. 3. Single purpose entity description & documents. This is normally a single purpose LLC or corporation that owns the project, so required documents are the LLC Articles and Operating Agreement or Corporation Articles and By-laws. 4. Site control. For ground-mount solar or wind projects, this is normally a land contract or lease, or option for same. In the case of rooftop solar, it is normally an executed lease or lease option. The critical elements are demonstration of site control and detailed terms going forward. 5. Civil engineering. For ground-mount solar or wind projects, a copy of the site plan showing project location, set-backs, usable acreage, and any constraints would be needed. Soils reports done on land and any other civil engineering documents are helpful.

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6. PPA or Off-take agreement. This is the document that provides the cash flow, which is being underwritten, so its importance is obvious. PPAs can be cumbersome in terms of legal time and expense, so be prepared for this. There are four general types of PPA’s or Off-take agreements as follows: Utility PPA: in the case of utilities, they will have their own form of PPA and, usually, do not allow modifications; however, utility PPA’s will normally be accepted by an investor’s legal counsel and are normally very bankable. Feed-in Tariff (FIT): these contracts are set in stone and not modified; however, they are generally the most bankable with investors and their legal counsel. In both cases above, the off-taker is almost always a good credit risk so credit is not usually an issue. Municipal PPAs: with municipalities, schools, etc., these will normally be fully executed and useful for presentation to the investor. These are favored by investors, as well, and the credit risk is normally minimal. Private PPAs: are generally with private or public companies, and normally need to be investment-grade credit to be considered by an investor. In many cases, the investor will require his or her own form of PPA (or a modification of the existing one) so, often times, a developer will get a PPA term sheet to be followed by the investor’s own form of PPA, which the investor’s legal counsel has prepared or approved. In the case of biomass projects, a feedstock or supply agreement tends to accompany the PPA. Financial information such as two years of audited financial statements is often required for credit evaluation. 7. Interconnect agreement. Developers often underestimate the amount of time it takes to get this agreement, yet it is a vital component. It must be fully executed by the utility or Local Distribution Company (LDC), and is normally applicable to ground-mount solar or wind projects. 8. Performance modeling. This will be based upon the solar radiation, wind power density, or other relevant energy source modeling. It is driven by component performance, as well as the above energy source modeling. It should be prepared by an EPC or a design engineer that is qualified to do such projections. 9. Proforma & cash flow. This will incorporate the above performance modeling, PPA/FIT revenue streams, any KWH escalators, project costs, incentives (federal, state, utility rebates, etc.), and any other factors that show the projected income and expenses for the duration of the PPA/FIT contract. 10. System design & construction documents. These are necessary to support the project performance projections and show all components and design for the project. 11. EPC & vendor contracts. These would show the complete project cost in a detailed line-item budget. 12. Permitting & regulatory approvals. For ground-mount solar or wind projects, full land entitlement including all environmental and regulatory approvals will be required. This can be a lengthy process, and it’s advisable to utilize a company or consultant that has prior experience to avoid costly delays. Building permits would be required as a final item prior to the start of construction. 13. System design. Project site plan, system specs, electrical design, and interconnect documents will be required. The EPC or design engineers will provide these.

14. Warranties & insurance. Major component warranties (e.g. solar modules, inverters, or wind turbines) should be provided along with all insurance coverages. These generally include Workers Comp, General Liability, All-risk property, and comprehensive insurance for the system once constructed. 15. Operations & Maintenance (O&M). An O&M plan should be in place with a company that has prior experience. There are several good companies to choose from. Every project is unique, and the above provides a general list that encompasses most project finance requirements. If the project pencils out and the above components are in place, financing should be available. Dick Talbert serves as CEO of Greenpower Capital. Greenpower Capital is an advisory service to developers and consultants to provide project finance for renewable energy projects in the US and Canada. Greenpower Capital, LLC www.greenpowercap.com | www.greenpowercap.ca

We Know Renewable Energy Troutman Sanders LLP is one of the world’s leading energy law firms. We have represented clients in energy matters since the 1920s, and our climate change practice has been active for nearly two decades. From this foundation of experience, we have developed a dynamic renewable energy practice that advises clients worldwide at every stage, from investment and tax structuring to development, construction and operation. As your plans for solar, wind and renewable energy projects emerge, put the energy of our lawyers to work for you. For more information, contact: Craig Kline - 212.704.6150

Phil Spector - 212.704.6004

craig.kline@troutmansanders.com

phil.spector@troutmansanders.com

Brian Harms - 404.885.3682

Todd Coles - 202.274.2810

brian.harms@troutmansanders.com

todd.coles@troutmansanders.com

Lara Skidmore - 503.535.0645 lara.skidmore@troutmansanders.com

650 lawyers | 50 practice areas | troutmansanders.com/renewable_energy

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Green Tech IP: Pitfall & Proﬁts T

Finance Leasing Acquisition Greenpower Capital offers early-stage buyout, leasing, equity, project finance, and acquisition with 100% construction advance. We have experience in project development, so we understand how to help a developer achieve its goals. We can move quickly to approve and fund your project. Call or e-mail us today to find out how we can assist you.

USA (818) 668-3100 Canada (647) 977-9200 www.greenpowercap.com info@greenpowercap.com 30

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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By George Snyder

oday’s successful business enterprise is tech-savvy, nimble, and green. Whether satisfying consumer demand for renewable energy, or for environmentally friendly products and services, a modern enterprise stays informed about government regulations concerning the environment, values observance of voluntary environmental standards, and strives for technological compliance with both. This can be an integral part of presenting a positive image, but is not the only benefit of green awareness. When a business enterprise spends millions on renewable energy pursuits, or to develop new green products or services, the green tech they embody is a highly valuable asset. There is a real-world need for the enterprise to guard its investment against appropriation by others, through patenting that green tech. Patent rights on green tech have become highly desirable as they can improve the bottom line by warding off rival copycats, or by affording opportunities for licensing. However, the trend toward green tech patents is a two-edged sword because others are also procuring them. Therefore, before introducing its own green tech into the marketplace, a business enterprise would be well advised to search for others’ patents and determine if the green tech is “clear” of infringing anyone else’s rights. Otherwise, there could be crippling liability costs (damages, attorney’s fees, etc.). Two recent matters are illustrative. In one, a company named TDM America secured patent rights concerning a green tech solution to protect the technology from unauthorized use. Unlicensed US government contractors then commenced green tech operations to remove and process contaminated materials from navigation channels, which TDM perceived as an infringement of its patent rights. TDM sued to block the accused operations and preserve its technology’s exclusivity. In contrast, consider the plight of several companies that commercialized technology for extracting corn oil from “whole stillage,” a by-product of manufacturing ethanol from corn. Another entity, GS Clean Tech, commenced litigation against them for infringement of its patent rights. Even though making ethanol production more lucrative, thereby encouraging use of ethanol as a green tech solution, the defendant-companies were sued by an entity seeking to exploit its investment in patents. So, how do businesses go about pursuing patent rights to secure green tech advances and preserve their asset value? And, since good intentions obviously do not forestall litigation, how does one mitigate the risk of being embroiled in a lawsuit?

Patent procurement

The first step in capturing portable green tech is to institute an “audit” function that closely monitors innovations on an enterprise-wide basis. Personnel involved in research, consulting, sales engineering, and the like can be recruited to provide reports on green tech solutions that are devised in-house. The scope of their reporting should be inclusive, leaving assessment and decision on what should be pursued to an individual or committee charged with managing innovation. Those advances, which are earmarked as potentially significant, can then be subjected to searching of the patent and technological literature to determine whether the innovation is clearly un-patentable. Depending on the results, a patent application—including a detailed description of the invention and claims legally defining its outer boundaries—can be prepared. It is a good idea to work out a theory of invention-patentability, and present the theory in the application right off the bat. In doing this, rather than waiting to respond to arguments against patentability raised by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”), one can frame the terms of the debate in a favorable way. In general, it is helpful at the threshold to develop a rationale for the invention’s difference from preceding technology—for instance, the invention enables “clean” practice, without any substantial loss of performance in comparison to conventional technology. Of course, it is important in extolling the superiority of the green invention not to indict the applicant’s prior conventional technology in a manner that might create liability for the latter’s utilization.

fication of evidence that the patented technology is unpatentable, should dispel concerns about infringement. On the other hand, if there is no ready basis for concluding non-infringement, finding another route will be dictated (maybe one might decide to inquire about licensing someone else’s patent rights). But, in any event, forewarned is forearmed. Conclusion

Unless a business protects its green tech assets, others may misappropriate them and the benefits they confer. Patenting is a powerful way of achieving this protection. However, the innovative (or even patentable) nature of a green tech development is not insurance against being sued by someone else for patent infringement. The risk of liability cannot be insightfully determined without a freedom-to-operate study. Bearing these concepts in mind should make “greening” not only a noble, but also a profitable venture. George Snyder is a partner at Troutman Sanders’ NYC office. Troutman Sanders LLP www.troutmansanders.com

Unless a business protects its green tech assets, others may misappropriate them and the beneﬁts they confer. Patenting is a powerful way of achieving this protection. The USPTO’s examination process typically takes anywhere from three to five years in the normal course, and there is no guarantee of success. The process can sometimes be expedited pursuant to protocols in the USPTO for handling green inventions but, again, there is no guarantee. Either way, however, staying the course can yield a patent that preserves significant competitive advantage conferred by innovative green tech. Freedom to operate

Best practices call for the vetting of a proposed green tech solution to see if it is clear of others’ patent rights before implementation. The initial step in conducting a “clearance” evaluation is structuring an effective search to uncover any patents and published patent applications of interest (these can be supplemented with patents and published applications already known to you and your colleagues). A useful technique for this is computerized keyword searching of US patent databases. Patents and applications that cannot be discarded as irrelevant must be analyzed more deeply (applications cannot be infringed unless and until they are granted as patents, but they should be evaluated to see what’s in the pipeline). Such an analysis (and any written opinion based on same) should be obtained from outside IP counsel if the goal is to obtain advice most likely to be credited as reasonable and competent by a court. The file histories of those patents and applications are obtained from the USPTO. Then IP counsel can determine whether the patent(s) and/or application(s) are sufficiently limited so that they do not cover the contemplated green tech solution or, at least, can be circumvented by an acceptable design modification. Alternatively, a search can be conducted to find literature foreshadowing the purported invention and establishing the “invention’s” unpatentability. This type of clearance work is known as a “freedom to operate” study, and is best performed as early as possible. A conclusion of noncoverage, the formulation of a feasible “design around,” or the identiNorth American Clean Energy

Solar Canada 2010 Conference & Exposition Show in Print Features just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this year’s show.

December 6th & 7th, 2010 • Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) North Building

www.cansia.ca

Lightweight solar mounting system Schletter introduces AluLight, a new lightweight solar mounting system. Not only does Alulight reduce the pounds per square foot loading on a roof, Alulight will reduce the bottom line. Utilizing Schletter’s high-volume manufacturing capabilities, AluLight is designed as a standard stock item. What this means for customers is a lower cost for their PV structural support system. Adding to a history of proven system designs, the AluLight features quick and easy installation for flat roof installations. Like all Schletter products, the Alulight works with most PV modules while completely enclosing in rows at a fixed 12° angle. Proper roof fasteners and concrete slabs incorporated into the system ensure the AluLight trough sits securely and in-line. Overall the lightweight, low-profile design offered by AluLight is ideal for exacting high-wind conditions where load weight is a concern. Schletter Inc. | www.schletter.us

Maximum monocrystalline cell PV power The Heliene HEE300M is a 72 monocrystalline cell PV module that generates up to 300 watts of power per panel that is only 2m2, achieving an efficiency rate of 15.5%. With output classes ranging from 280Wp to 300Wp, the HEE300M retains a thickness of only 40mm and weighs only 28kg. Delivering maximum power per panel, this module is the best choice to achieve optimum energy production, and is a cost-effective solution for larger projects. These panels are also made in Ontario, Canada, so they provide up to 15% of the domestic component needed in local projects. Heliene | www.heliene.ca/products

www.wielandinc.com

Grid-tied & off-grid solar solutions Lumin Solar Inc. is a Canadianowned manufacturer of photovoltaic solar modules. As one of the first manufacturers located in Ontario, Lumin Solar’s modules are suitable for use in both grid-tied and off-grid applications. The facility has the current capability to manufacture 18 MW per year and plans to double its capacity in the coming year to meet growth demands. Lumin Solar modules consist of high-efficiency monocrystalline cells in a 6 x 10 cell layout. Great care is put into the production process to ensure that each panel performs to the highest quality standards. Lumin Solar maintains strong relationships with their premium component and material suppliers. Combining premium cells with the best raw materials available in the industry result in a true highperformance solar module, guaranteed to give years of worry free power production. Lumin Solar Inc. www.luminsolar.com

WieSPislandadnaceJulAug10aOL.indd 1 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 32

2010

nacleanenergy.com

6/14/10 6:13 PM

Linking PV panels to the grid Twenty-five years of experience, combined with a worldwide presence and extensive R&D program, enables General Cable to provide the most reliable and technologically advanced cable solutions to the global solar energy market. As a company committed to environmental stewardship and renewable energy, General Cable has specifically designed its SunGen suite of cabling products to effectively and efficiently link solar PV panels to the grid while being able to withstand the harsh operating environments of solar power applications. SunGen cables offer the following advantages: resistant to UV/sunlight, ozone and H2O absorption; stable electrical properties over a broad temperature range (-40° to 120°C); excellent flexibility even in sub-zero conditions; mechanically rugged construction resists tearing and abrasions; deformation-resistant at prolonged high temperatures; halogen-free, fire-retardant, and low corrosive gas emission for safety; single and multi-conductor cable constructions; as well as, CSA, UL, and TÜV approved for solar PV panels. General Cable www.generalcable.com

Solar PV wire management Wiley announces the introduction of the ACC-R2, a new addition to the Acme Cable Clip line of wire management products. The ACC-R2, unlike the previous Acme Cable Clips, attaches directly to the mounting rail instead of the module frame. Acme Cable Clips simplify wire management and create a cleaner aesthetic for solar PV systems. The ACC-R2 is primarily designed to hold AC leads connecting to microinverters. It can also be used for the installation of two smaller wires measuring 9.3mm to 11.0mm in outside diameter, or one wire measuring 9.3mm to 14.0mm. The ACC-R2 is made from stainless steel, which exhibits superior corrosion and UVresistance to other materials. The advantages of using the ACC product line are that the clips install quickly and easily, can be used with a variety of modules and rails, prevent damage to cable insulation, are reusable to help eliminate waste, and last for the lifetime of a system with no maintenance. Wiley Electronics LLC | www.we-llc.com

Schneider Electric at Solar Canada 2010 December 6+7 | Toronto, Ontario Booth 403

Training

New Schneider Electric Renewable Solutions > Large Scale Utility and Small Commercial > Small Commercial and Residential > Off-Grid and Battery-Based

> Schneider Electric Three Phase Applications > Schneider Electric Single Phase and Off-Grid Applications To register go to www.cansia.ca

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North American Clean Energy

cansia show in print Waterproof solar installation Quick Mount PV makes code compliant, flashed mounting systems that attach solar panels to composition, wood shake, and tile roofs. The all-aluminium flashing and standoff block, combined with stainless steel hardware, gives the product a 50-year life. The Quick Mount PV Composition Mount uses patented waterproofing technology and is ICC-certified for strength, quality, and waterproofing. No roof cutting is required, keeping the roof and its warranty safe. Designed by installers for installers, Quick Mount PV easily works with all leading racks. The Quick Mount Composition Mount is made in Canada by SunRise Power, meeting the Ontario content for the FIT programs. Quick Mount PV (at the SunRise Power booth) www.quickmountpv.com | www.sunrisepower.ca

Solar electric solutions

NEW! KUKA AWSM 3800 / 4800 Advanced Wire Saw Machine

CUSTOMIZED TURNKEY SOLUTIONS · HIGHLY AUTOMATED BRICK AND WAFER LINES · AUTOMATED MODULE MANUFACTURING · PROCESS EQUIPMENT FOR WAFER AND MODULE MANUFACTURING · THERMAL COLLECTOR SOLUTIONS · PLANNING AND ENGINEERING · GENERAL CONTRACTOR

SunWize Technologies is a North American wholesale distributor of PV systems and components (including modules, inverters, and BOS) to installers serving the on-grid residential/commercial and off-grid residential markets. In addition to wholesale distribution, SunWize also installs residential and commercial PV systems, designs and integrates off-grid industrial systems, and manufactures specialty modules for unique applications. SunWize Technologies www.sunwize.com

Our high efficiency, Ontario made photovoltaic (PV) solar modules represent a milestone in the way we think about power. 100% Canadian owned and manufactured end-to-end at our facility in Thornhill Ontario, our panels fully comply with the Domestic Content requirements of the Ontario FIT program.

Lightweight PV inverters

We serve industrial, commercial and residential customers throughout Ontario, Canada and wider Global markets.

KACO new energy’s blueplanet 02xi series inverters will be produced in London, Ontario to meet OPA domestic sourcing requirements starting in January 2011. KACO’s blueplanet inverters are lightweight, reliable, and guaranteed by one of the largest producers of PV inverters in the market. KACO new energy www.kaco-newenergy.com

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INFO@LUMINSOLAR.COM

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T 905.731.4764

F 905.709.4238

Solar module & component manufacturing Siliken is a group of companies specialized in the manufacture of modules, other PV components, and in developing turnkey projects. The company is strongly involved in a vertical integration process and currently has a silicon and trichlorosilane purification plant. Siliken produces PV modules, power inverters, installation structures, electrical security panels, string monitors, and other components. Siliken | www.siliken.com

Renewable energy ďŹ nancing Ameresco develops renewable energy solutions that allow organizations to capitalize on the most current technologies available. By combining innovative financing arrangements with clean energy sources, they work with clients to develop green solutions to their needs. As a full service renewable energy provider, Ameresco has two solar technology divisions covering all solutions from solar PV to solar thermal. Ameresco has developed and installed many solar PV systems, ranging from small to large installations. They can design and build a turnkey PV system, giving clients the ability to generate electricity to sell to the grid or, alternatively, they can partner with clients whereby they design, build, finance, own, and operate the system. Ameresco has fully integrated solar equipment sales, design, and installation experience with solar electric (PV) modules and systems, totaling well over 100 MW. Ameresco Canada Inc. www.ameresco.ca

PV development & ďŹ nancing Enfinity is a solar PV development company. They operate across the globe and have been selected to build some of the largest projects in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Their depth of experience ensures they can seamlessly finance, develop, and deliver the most complex renewable energy projects for customers. EnďŹ nity Canada Ltd. www.enfinity.ca

North American Clean Energy

cansia show in print Components for PV products & systems IRWIN Industrial is an Ontario-based supplier of electro-mechanical components for solar power equipment and installations, including Schurter’s new ASO series fuse and FSO series fuseholder. Designed to protect DC applications from the potentially devastating effects of low short circuits and overvoltage conditions in systems upwards of 1000 VDC, the fuse and fuseholder are intended for use in solar strings, inverters, battery chargers, and combiner boxes. The ASO fuse has a quick-acting characteristic according to UL 248-14. It is a standard 10.3x38mm size. Current ratings range from 1 to 30A with a breaking capacity of 20 kA. The fuseholder mounts in a standard 35mm DIN Rail. A pressure plate connection accepts 8-14 AWG stranded wires or 10-14 AWG solid wires. Units can be ordered in 1-, 2-, or 3-poles. Both ASO and FSO are cURus agency recognized. Irwin Industrial | www.irwin-ind.com

Source: juwi AG

PV distribution & project support SunConnex provides the market with PV distribution and project support with an exceptionally high level of know-how based on over two decades of experience in this relatively new market. Their product brand selection is best-in-class in terms of quality, reliability, and return on investment. The SunConnex product portfolio and services offer a high level of added value to customers, so they can focus on successfully running their PV business. SunConnex makes sure that customers have exactly the right products at the most competitive prices available for delivery when needed. SunConnex understands the needs of installers, project developers, and end-customers for good value and high quality. They offer: reliable distribution; project support; competitive prices; project development; financing; high value; and, local support. SunConnex www.sunconnex.com

Financial advisors Ierfino & Associates are financial advisors, and not just financial reporters. Whether needs as an owner/manager are operational efficiency, tax planning opportunities, and/or financial reporting, they are there to assist. Ierﬁno & Associates www.ierfino.com

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PV roof-mounting kit The challenge has been in how to attach PV modules to standing seam roof systems without jeopardizing roof material, and with weathertightness warranties. The answer is the new and improved S-5-PV Kit. Designed specifically to secure framed PV modules to standing seam systems without penetrating the roof surface and without messy, damaging sealants, S-5! has created the solution for the PV industry that: can cost as little as $0.06 a watt (find out how online); installs quickly and easily, fitting the majority of solar panels and metal roof profiles; installs with DirectAttached or rail mounting; universally fits both field and end conditions; features a beveled guide to ensure easy and proper module placement; and, features wire management hooks. A 30-years power source on a 30-years roof, along with the S-5! zero penetration technology creates the most sustainable roof system available with alternative power generation, all without compromising a roof’s warranty. S-5! | www.S-5-solar.com

What is the SunWize difference? “SunWize Earned My Loyalty.” “Back when I was nobody and struggling to get started, Mark Paddison and SunW Su n ize took the time to help me get established. When the Ontario FIT program bega be gan n an a d our business took off, they continued to provide me with great support on lar arge gerr an and d la larg ger projects. SunWize is the first company I call on every project.”

Solar pumping & heat transfer station

Dean D n Mar arti tin n P esiden Pr ent, t, R&D Ene nerg rgyy So Solu luti tion onss – On nta ario, Canada

Ensure maximum system performance and reliability of closed-loop solar systems with a Solar-Divicon pumping station from Viessmann. Choose from a full range of pre-assembled and pre-wired stations to meet the needs of a variety of solar applications. The new Solar-Divicon-HX pumping and heat transfer station incorporates a large, double-wall stainless steel heat exchanger for heat transfer to any standard domestic hot water (DHW) storage tank, three-speed solar loop and DHW pumps, as well as a solar controller. Connect it to a DHW storage tank with upper electric element to create a “onetank” solar system. The Solar-DiviconHX is available in two sizes. Viessmann www.viessmann.ca

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Visit us at canSIA booth S09

Visit www.sunwize.com/diff ffe erence or call us at 800.817.6527 and fi fin nd outt how the SunW Wize diff fference can help p your busiiness be successful.

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Flat roof mounting system The clampless mounting system, AluTec, is now available for flat roofs. This cost-effective, space-efficient insertion rail system evenly distributes load and eliminates the need for clamps; thereby, reducing installation time and creating a uniform, single plane appearance. AluTec works with most framed modules and mounting attachments (including L Feet, QuickMount, Tilt Legs, and Roof Hooks), and is fully compliant with national building codes. The system was invented by SolarMarkt AG, and has been popular in Europe for years. AluTec was introduced to the American market in 2008, and has become a preferred choice for contractors who appreciate the price and versatility, and their clients who love the elegant look. Session Solar | www.sessionsolar.com

Do you want more out of it?

Grid tie solar inverter The Schneider Electric Xantrex GT500-600 is a grid tie solar inverter with an ultra-efficient design (CEC efficiency of 96.5%), a redesigned enclosure for more reliability, and a two-section design with inverter and DC section in one cabinet and transformer and AC section in another. The inverter includes a night-time disconnect to help prevent transformer magnetizing current losses and soft start circuit to reduce transformer inrush. The Schneider Electric Xantrex GT500-600 is Ontario FIT compliant.

Check out our sputtering targets for thin ﬁlm solar cells. Innovative target designs and new molybdenum alloys for more efﬁciency.

Schneider Electric www.schneider-electric.com/renewable-energies

Solar energy insurance brokerage URS Insurance Brokers is an independent, full-service Property & Casualty Insurance Brokerage. They specialize in providing insurance products that are designed to meet the unique requirements of companies and individuals doing business in the solar and green energy fields. Some of the products they offer include Errors & Omissions Liability Insurance, Commercial General Liability Insurance, Business Property Insurance, and Automobile Insurance. They also represent several leading insurance companies.

Visit us at the Intersolar San Francisco July 13-15

URS Insurance Brokers www.ursinsurance.com

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PV panels & mounting solutions Opsun Panels is a manufacturer of Ontario-made PV panels and engineered mounting solutions. They work closely with commercial rooftop developers to provide complete solutions that ensure the best power output and project ROI while minimizing the overall cost of installation. Opsun provides its partners with some of the solar industry’s highest-efficiency solar panels, at a competitive price. Their mounting solutions are patented, engineer-stamped, and wind-tunnel tested to ensure the fastest installation times, best reliability, and building code conformance—all of which contribute to a significantly lower overall system cost. Their engineering team works closely with Opsun’s partners from initial assessments through system design and modeling to engineering and support during installation. Opsun Panels Inc. www.opsunpanels.com

PV distributor & systems integrator Entirely Canadian owned since operations began in 1985, Matrix Energy Inc. is one of the country’s most experienced suppliers of renewable energy products. The company’s Renewable Energy Group is a full-service wholesale distributor and systems integrator of PV and wind energy equipment for grid-tie, off-grid, and grid interactive applications. Offering superior engineered system design and technical support, Matrix Energy is currently stocking FIT Compliant solar modules, inverters, roof- or ground-mounting hardware, as well as balance of system components. The Solar Thermal Group offers engineered system design, manufacturing and supply of MatrixAir™ solar air heating systems for industrial, commercial, institutional, and agricultural applications.

Distributed solar power plants

Matrix Energy Inc. | www.matrixenergy.ca

SunEdison develops, installs, finances, and operates distributed solar power plants. SunEdison delivers predictably priced solar energy to its utility, government, and commercial customers around the world with no capital outlay required by the customer. Since 2004, SunEdison has raised over one-billion dollars in project financing, and has deployed more than 395 active solar power plants. SunEdison is a subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. SunEdison | www.sunedison.ca

Solar water heating system VELUX solar water heating system, proven for years in Europe and most recently in the US, is now available in Canada. VELUX solar collectors have been designed with a low profile to be aesthetically pleasing and to integrate well with rooflines. They utilize the same leak-proof flashing systems used with VELUX skylights and have the look of a VELUX skylight. How it works: the sun heats a solution in the rooftop solar collectors; the heated solution is pumped through the heat exchanger in the hot water tank; the heat exchanger heats the water in the hot water tank, and the solution re-circulates back to the rooftop solar collectors, where the cycle continuously repeats; and, lastly, the heated water in the hot water tank is now ready for use in the home. VELUX Canada Inc. | www.velux.ca

Bright Thinking in Solar North American Clean Energy

cansia show in print Solar education & training Infinite Solar, Inc. is a solar education/training facility with locations in Canada and the US. The company boasts the first indoor grid-tied PV system on the east coast with a multimedia classroom and an in-house workshop with a real-sized mock roof—providing students with a hands-on solar experience. Their Solar PV and Solar Thermal 5 Day – Design and Installation courses are IREC/ ISPQ accredited, and Infinite Solar is an approved provider of the NABCEP Entry Level Exam. Infinite Solar is committed to providing high-quality education and training in real conditions. They guide their students through the ever-changing maze of renewable energy technologies and regulations with an objective of instructing on how to design and install systems using cutting-edge solar technologies; thereby, preparing students with the necessary tools for a successful entry into the renewable energy industry. Infinite Solar, Inc. is recognized by the PA Sunshine Program as the first IREC approved provider in the state of Pennsylvania. Inﬁnite Solar, Inc. | www.solarschoolpa.com

Grid-tied inverter

CAUTION

ONE MEAN BATTERY

OPTI-Solar’s Grid-Tied Inverter offers user-friendly and cost-effective solar solutions. The durable design endures harsh environments, and the wide range of accessories allows for easy monitoring in any weather. In addition to the solid design, OPTI-Solar provides a five-year warranty to guarantee the best aftersale services for customers. Flexible design based on any requirements makes Grid-Tied Inverter Series the reliable choice that ensures the best energy harvest. OPTI-Solar | www.opti-solar.com

Available in 20 countries on 6 continents worldwide, Rolls offers the broadest product line of deep cycle, low maintenance and maintenance free batteries for the Renewable Energy market. From large-scale storage to small village electrification, our flooded or AGM storage batteries deliver the power you need every time. Each is backed by our industry leading warranty, solid reputation and 97% recyclable at end of life. Green just got a whole lot meaner.

T. 1.800.681.9914 E. sales@rollsbattery.com www.rollsbattery.com

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Legal services for the energy sector Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP is one of Canada’s largest national law firms with an accomplished record of legal services to the energy sector. Gowlings is actively involved in all aspects of the industry—generation, transmission, distribution, trading, and retailing. Gowlings’ lawyers have extensive industry experience and have successfully managed a host of significant and complex energy transactions, both domestically and internationally. Gowlings regularly represents clients before the Ontario Energy Board and the National Energy Board. Gowling Laﬂeur Henderson LLP www.gowlings.com

Solar energy project ﬁnancing JCM Capital is a financial advisory company that focuses exclusively on financing solar energy projects in Ontario, Canada. JCM Capital provides equity and debt investors looking for long-term predictable cash flows with the opportunity to invest in “construction-ready” and operational solar projects utilizing Ontario’s Feed-in Tariff program. JCM is currently working with a number of developers to assist them with their financing strategies, and is financing rooftop and groundmounted portfolios spanning from southwestern to eastern Ontario. JCM’s wholly owned subsidiary, Tenedos Energy, is responsible for all development work and activities needed to bring projects to the construction-ready stage. JCM Capital | www.jcmcapital.ca

Solar mounting system fabrication Samco Solar is a turnkey fabricator of solar mounting systems for largescale rooftop and ground-mounted PV & ST applications. Leveraging 40 years of expertise in operating, developing, and implementing highprecision roll forming, stamping, bending, machining, and fastening technologies, Samco Solar seeks partners interested in having solar mounting solutions manufactured and delivered just-in-time to the highest quality standards. Equipped with over 80,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Canada, Samco Solar’s headquarters allow customers to meet the domestic content requirements of the Ontario Feed-inTariff program. Samco Solar is also a proud member of CanSIA. Samco Solar www.samco-solar.com

PV solar tracker Canadian company Green Sun Rising, along with German tracker company LORENTZ, designed a solar PV tracker that is a perfect fit for the Ontario market and for Ontario FIT and microFIT projects. The two-axis solar tracker, available in 3kW and 4kW versions, has produced a lot of interest since its market entry under the brand name Tracker4solar as they are both durable and easy to install. The first systems are already up and running in Essex county. Green Sun Rising www.tracker4solar.com

North American Clean Energy

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Solar tracking systems DEGERenergie offers two new tracking systems: DEGERtraker 6000NT and 9000NT. The new models feature greater stability in areas of strong winds and higher energy yield. The DEGERtrakers 9000NT and 6000NT were developed on the basis of the 5000HD heavy duty model, which is specially designed to handle high wind loads. The 9000NT can withstand increased wind loads even with a large module surface. It handles a module surface of up to 70 square meters. The DEGERtraker 6000NT is designed for a module area of up to 53 square meters. The maximum wind load for both new NT models is rated at 300 kilometers per hour. Tracking takes place on the basis of MLD (Maximum Light Detection) technology using the patented DEGERconecter control module. This technology has been proven to produce up to 46% more yield in comparison to fixed PV installations. DEGERenergie | www.degerenergie.com

Utility scale solar inverter solutions

Solar module edge sealing system

Satcon introduces their Equinox 500 kilowatt 600V inverter solution, engineered specifically for the Ontario solar market. Built on the foundation of Satcon’s PowerGate Plus product family, the world’s most widely deployed large-scale utility ready inverter solutions, Equinox delivers a best-in-class efficiency of 98.5%. Equinox is available in three separate climate packages, enabling the large-scale commercial and utility solar industry’s broadest thermal operating range with fully rated performance at temperatures as high as 55°C/131°F, and as low as -20°C/4°F. With 18 power ratings, ranging from 30kW to 1 MW, Satcon enables total system intelligence, advanced control capabilities, and industrial-grade engineering.

FlexSeal, by Automation Alternatives, Inc., is an innovative solution for edge sealing of solar modules. It delivers homogeneous continuous ribbon or bead of materials that can replace taping process in solar module manufacturing. Precision, consistency, fast cycle time, and higher yield of FlexSeal significantly improve productivity and guarantee quick return on investment. FlexSeal has a computer-controlled dispensing system that assures ultimate precision and consistency of the seal using materials from low to very high viscosity. FlexSeal is easy to operate and can be easily integrated into automated inline manufacturing processes. It can produce ribbon beads with continuous round or square corners with different width and thickness. Assembly Automation Alternatives, Inc. www.auto-alt.com

Satcon Technology Corporation www.satcon.com

Solar-friendly manufacturing region A growing number of power producers are tapping into the industry friendly infrastructure of Sarnia-Lambton, in the south-western Ontario region. Excellent manufacturing locations, suitable for the manufacture of solar panel components, are available adjacent to the Michigan border and central to the Great Lakes region— with easy access to international markets. Many solar energy related companies are taking advantage of cluster power in power generation, industrial chemicals, and manufacturing. The region’s Lambton College provides three-year Alternative Energy Engineering Technology graduates, and research assistance is available at The Research Park in Sarnia-Lambton. Sarnia-Lambton | www.sarnialambton.on.ca

Reliability In Surge Protection

Why VG Technology? DC Power Systems continuously stress Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) without impunity. The result is a significantly shorter life (about 3-5 years) for devices that rely exclusively on MOV technology. Citel’s VG Technology is a hybrid protection circuit that incorporates our unique Gas-filled Spark Gap (GSG) with series MOV. This patented combination completely eliminates all leakage and working currents thus extending the life of the SPD by up to 5 times that of MOV technology alone. In addition, the performance characteristics that you have come to expect are not sacrificed.

INFO@CITEL.US 800.248.3548 WWW.CITEL.US 42

Nominal Discharge Current (In) 20kA 8/20μs Maximum Discharge Current (Imax) 40kA 8/20μs Very low clamping 2.3kV at 5kA 8/20μs No follow on current

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Solar PV mounting solutions Polar Racking is a Canadian company committed to revolutionizing the racking industry through their highly efficient racking solutions, value-added engineering, and customer service. With an emphasis on minimizing structural loads and construction time, Polar maximizes ROI by providing integrated solutions that consistently deliver the lowest cost per kilowatt-hour for its clients. Polar Racking is featuring their introductory product, Polar One, a low profile, ballasted, flat-roof racking system that minimizes install times and the need for additional ballast. Polar Racking offers full technical and design support including Ontario Engineer stamped layouts. Polar Racking | www.polarracking.com

Solar PV grid-tied systems Carmanah Technologies Corporation is a global provider of renewable and energy efficient technologies. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grid-tie division oversees the design, supply, and installation of solar PV grid-tied systems for commercial, industrial, and institutional applications. As a trusted name in solar technology, Carmanah has installed more grid-tie solar power systems on Canadian commercial rooftops than any other integrator or EPC contractor in Canada. Carmanah Technologies Corporation | www.carmanah.com

North American Clean Energy

cansia show in print ISYS ground mount Designed to deliver a cost-effective system with a responsive and scalable supply chain, ISYS Ground Mount has an installation rate of more than 10 modules per man-hour. IGM is assembled in the field, not built. The components require zero fabrication—no field welding, drilling, or cutting. Through smart design and pre-fabricated sub-assemblies, IGM is one of the fastest systems to install with the least amount of labor. Optimized for projects ranging from 500 kilowatts to gigawatts, IGM structural materials come from a single source specifically packed and custom designed for each customer’s module and site conditions. UNIRAC | www.unirac.com

ASO Solar Fuse and FSO Fuseholder Combo

Complete line of grid-tied solar inverters

PV solutions for residential to utility scale systems

Advanced Energy is a global innovator of power conversion solutions and services thin-film manufacturing and renewable energy applications. The company recently acquired PV Powered, a developer of grid-tied PV inverters that have set a new industry standards in reliability and efficiency. AE Solaron and PV Powered inverters provide the industry with the broadest portfolio of inverters covering power ranges from 2000W to 500kW for residential and commercial applications, as well as factory integrated 1 MW to 2 MW size solutions for utility scale applications. The AE and PV Powered commercial inverter portfolio is combined under AE’s global service offerings—including their 99% inverter uptime.

Conergy supplies a full selection of FIT and MicroFIT-compliant PV systems, kits, and components. Their new Ontario-made solar module is coming in 2011. Other components, such as the Conergy SolarGiant III and SunTop, are also manufactured entirely in Ontario. Conergy is committed to providing the best-in-class components tailored to the Canadian market. Conergy Canada | www.conergy.ca

Advanced Energy www.advanced-energy.com www.schurterinc.com/new_fuses

Provides low short circuit current and overvoltage protection up to 1000 VDC in solar strings, inverters, battery charges and combiner boxes. – – – – –

Standard midget size 10.3 x 38 mm Quick-acting according to UL 248-14 Current rating ranges from 1 to 30 A Breaking capacity 20kA Touch-safe fuseholder mounts on DIN rail, or accepts 8-14 AWG standard wire; 1-, 2-, or 3 poles available

Solar energy legal consulting Torys’ Renewable Energy Group has significant expertise in financing power projects, in power project development and construction, and acquiring and divesting power assets and companies. They have a multidisciplinary group of lawyers with extensive experience in all aspects of structuring, developing, constructing, financing, managing, operating, buying and selling infrastructure, and energy projects. They draw on their expertise and depth of resources in a variety of fields to assist clients in accomplishing their objectives, and are known for this expertise in the various fields that affect renewable power projects. They have a complete understanding of the differing stakeholder interests in energy projects, and the depth of resources, to be able to offer advice on all the legal issues that arise throughout the solar energy project cycle. Tory’s | www.torys.com

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WIND BUYERS GUIDE

WIND BUYERS GUIDE DIRECTORY BLADE / TOWER MANUFACTURER

BLADE / TOWER MANUFACTURER

OTHER Adhesives, Sealants & Surface Treatment Solutions Anchor Bolts, Foundations Systems & Fasteners Blade Engineering & Repair Training Bolting Tools & Expertise Communications Control Buildings Cutting Tool Manufacturer Energy Storage Engineering & Project Management Services Equipment Sales & Distributor Foundation Pile Supplier Gearbox Service & Repair Geotechnical Specialist Contracting Hand Tools for Connectivity Hybrid Power Systems Hydraulic Equipment, Tools, Calibration & Measurement Lightning Protection / Lightning Monitoring Lubricants Personal Solutions Rotor Speed , Yaw Position & Blade Pitch Sensors

COMPONENT SUPPLIER CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS & SERVICES CONSULTING SERVICES CONTRACT MANUFACTURING ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LARGE WIND TURBINE MFG (over 100 kW) OPERATIONS and MAINTENANCE SAFETY SMALL WIND TURBINE MFG (Under 100 kW)

Terminal Operator & Stevedore Test Equipment: Power system simulator

SOFTWARE SUPPLIER

Tool Supplier

TRANSMISSIONS

Transformer Oil Spill Containment

TRANSPORTATION

Visual Impact Mitigation Solutions

WIND ASSESSMENT / FORECASTING 1 50_Equipment_Express.eps

Turbine Design & Components and Grid Interconnection

9/2/09

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

Wind Blade & Nacelle Manufacturing Software / 8:29 AM Equipment

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AOC, LLC

Wheelabrator Manual Airblast Rooms are an essential product in the extensive line of environmentally sound blast systems offered by Wheelabrator. Airblast rooms are available with a variety of options to meet the speciﬁc needs of customers within any given sector, in particular the wind power industry. www.wheelabratorgroup.com

North America’s largest resin manufacturers, AOC has a vast range of polyester and vinyl ester resins, colorants and pigment dispersions, and gel coats. These high-performing products are preferred by both open- and closed-mold fabricators for their demanding applications. Proprietary manufacturing technology leadership guarantees batch-to-batch consistency from strategically located plants in Canada and the US, as well as globally. www.aoc-resins.com

BS Rotor Technic USA LLC BS Rotor Technic are specialists for service and repair of rotor blades, offering O&M on wind turbines, rope access, and special platforms. They are GL certiﬁed with over 15 years of experience working on rotor blades, both on and off-shore. Service technicians are ready to work in the US, as well as abroad. www.bs-rotor.com

DMI Industries For more than 30 years, DMI Industries has built a solid reputation in heavy steel manufacturing, exclusively in wind towers since 1999. Wind turbine manufacturers rely on DMI for a best-in-class product built to their exact speciﬁcations, delivered on time, every time. DMI factories are strategically located and fully integrated, taking each tower section through all production stages at the same factory location. At DMI, every project begins with the raw materials and processes that offer a superior product. www.dmiindustries.com

Trinity Structural Towers

Valmont Newmark

Trinity Structural Towers (TSTI) is a manufacturer of wind towers in North America. With various facilities, their logistics group offers the capability to utilize trucking, rail, and barge to provide a turnkey solution. www.trinitytowers.com

Valmont Newmark provides a single source for steel, concrete, hybrid, turbine tower, transmission, distribution, and substation power delivery structures. Their complete product line, combined with an experienced engineering staff and dedicated customer service, enables them to provide the highest quality, most economical solutions that meet the wind industry’s demanding requirements. www.valmont-newmark.com

From the earth.

Goff, Inc. Goff, Inc. supplies shot blast and shot peening equipment to companies all across North America, and they have engineered and manufactured equipment that has provided shot blasting solutions for small, locally owned shops—to some of the largest, globally owned corporations. Goff, Inc. has supplied shot blast equipment to wind power suppliers, tower manufacturers, gear and bearing companies, foundries, fabricators, metal improvement companies, paint and coating companies, and many other industries with equipment to make their processes more efﬁcient and cost effective. www.goff-inc.com

Tindall Corporation The Atlas CTB Concrete Tower Base by Tindall is a revolutionary new hybrid concept completely developed and manufactured in North America. This precast concrete base system brings substantial performance improvements to low and moderate wind speed sites. Comprising the lower 32m or 40m of a tower, the Atlas CTB is scalable, raising turbine hub heights above 100m to 130m, signiﬁcantly increasing power generation. This large-footprint precast concrete base supports conventional steel mono-towers and is composed of multiple staves that are erected and stabilized by a concrete transition. The components can be factory manufactured or cast on site, and are quickly erected on a simple ring foundation. The structurally efﬁcient foundation requires 1/4 to 1/3 of the concrete and reinforcing steel found in conventional tower footings. The base has an anticipated service life of 50 years. www.atlasctb.com

To the grid. When CG Power Solutions helps bring a renewable project onto the grid, energy isn’t the only thing that gets a boost—over and over again. We come in on time and on budget so you come out ahead financially right from the start. Plus, the quality of our work ensures project reliability—which means less maintenance and downtime, and more revenue over the long haul. Bottom line? Going green is great. Generating green quicker and more consistently is even better. Plug into CG Power Solutions for services up to full EPC. Visit cgpowersolutions.com or call 877.426.0333. Formerly MSE Power Systems

North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide COMPONENT SUPPLIER Alencon Systems, Inc. Alencon Systems, Inc. announced the release of a new series of grid-tied inverter systems engineered specifically to address every major aspect of large utility scale renewable energy generation in the range from 2.5 MW to 100 MW. Their regulated current source technology provides impressive benefits, including: reliability backed by a best-in-class warranty/service package; 99.1% CEC efficiency; active/reactive power control with cos(φ) +/- 0.9; and, robustness that allows low/zero voltage ride through. The inverters are offered in two options: nacelle and collective HVDC conversion for offshore farms. This new conversion system also includes a sophisticated virtual-reality remote monitoring software to help operators assure their wind farm is running at peak capacity at any point in time. www.alenconsystems.com

Beka Max of America Inc.

Our welding and cutting solutions will blow you away.

Beka Max of America Inc. is a worldwide supplier of BekaWind automatic lubrication systems used in wind turbines. They provide a complete range of products for all turbines and their operating conditions. BekaWind offers high operational reliability and low lubricant consumption. Currently, these systems are used in many wind applications across the globe. Beka products are also used in many other applications around the world. Synonymous with quality, Beka has over 75 years of expertise in the lubrication industry. www.beka-lube.com

BURNDY

MECHANIZED CUTTING

WELDING AUTOMATION

SUB ARC WIRE AND FLUX

What’s the most efﬁcient way to produce your wind tower? Turn to ESAB for a complete manufacturing solution. We have everything you need, all in one place – from mechanized cutting machines to automated welding systems to the broadest selection of filler metals and fluxes. Our experts will provide a turnkey solution, from factory layout to unequalled support that will keep your operation running at maximum efficiency. So let ESAB power the fabrication of your wind tower.

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products / esabna.com / 1.800.ESAB.123

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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BURNDY announces the expansion of the wire range for its BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of copper and aluminum compression terminals (types YBA, YBA-FX, and YBA-A). It provides maximum field flexibility by allowing the installer (using the BREAK-AWAY feature) to easily convert a two-hole terminal to a onehole terminal to best suit the specific application. The BURNDY UL Listed and CSA Certified BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of terminals is rated to 90° C, 600 volts to 35kV. With a slotted second stud, the BREAKAWAY line of terminals can conform to various bus bar dimensions. For additional flexibility, the Narrow Tongue design allows the terminal to fit into tight spaces. Additionally, the BREAK-AWAY line of terminals accommodates a wide range of conductor combinations including AWG, Compact, DLO, Flex, and Metric. www.burndy.com

North American Wind Industry the high performance V112-3.0 MW is for you We all need to manage risks. In wind energy investing, that means working with an experienced partner who manages risk every day. Vestas is that partner. For 30 years, Vestas has been making turbines ever more reliable, and our new V112-3.0 MW is our most advanced turbine yet. With the largest wind swept area in its class, it generates exceptional performance at low wind speeds, and our rigorous testing program ensures reliability and reduces maintenance costs, offering certainty and stability for your investment. So if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for reliable output at a competitive cost and for a partner you can rely on to deliver it, then Vestas and the V112-3.0 MW are for you. To learn how Vestasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; relentless commitment is driving the North American wind industry forward,

visit vestas.com/NorthAmericanWindIndustry

2011 wind buyers guide

Catch the Wind, Inc. CENTA CENTA manufactures ﬂexible couplings and drive shaft solutions for torsional vibration, electrical isolation, noise, and misalignment related problems. With over 20 coupling designs, and over 16 million couplings sold, CENTA has the solution for power transmission systems driven by wind, electric motors, or gas/diesel engines. Their coupling solutions range from torsionally very soft, for high inertia systems like gearboxes and generators, to torsionally very stiff, for simple inline pump drives. CENTA’s staff of design and calculation engineers ensures equipment design receives the required attention, as well as the ideal coupling solution. www.centa.info

Catch the Wind is the developer and manufacturer of the Vindicator laser wind sensor, which can mount on the nacelle of large wind turbines to provide advanced wind speed and direction information to a turbine controller, allowing it to better align the turbine with the wind. Recent trials have demonstrated that winds vary continuously, by as much as 20°, making it difficult for conventional anemometry located in the disturbed wind flow behind the spinning rotor blades to accurately position the wind turbine for optimal performance. Analysis comparing performance of wind turbines controlled by the Vindicator system to turbines using conventional anemometry show that laser wind sensor control significantly improves the average power output while dramatically reducing the stress loading on the turbine’s major components. www.catchthewindinc.com

Marathon Special Products Marathon Special Products has released a new addition to their Sectional Terminal Block offering. The new 7/16” Sectional Terminal Blocks have been tested and comply with UL and CSA standards. This includes versatile capabilities such as use with multiple wires and with flexible stranded wire classes. These small profile blocks accommodate lugged or bare wires up to 40 amps, and are mountable on standard DIN rails. The new series has a robust design that allows it to withstand abuse that tends to break or distort existing sectional blocks. These blocks are ideal for elevator systems and industrial control panels where flexibility of circuit design is necessary. www.marathonsp.com

HYDAC HYDAC offers quality replacement elements for all major wind turbine brands. Advantages include: high dirt holding and lower differential pressure capacities that allow for longer life; high-efficiency ratings, which maintain cleanliness levels; great cost-to-value ratio; global availability and support to get the parts and answers needed quickly; a trusted name in filtration for over 35 years; as well as, a single source for all filter element needs. www.hydacusa.com

Remke Energy

STRONGER THAN THE WIND Deep Foundation Systems * for wind turbines

www.contechsystems.com ctswest@contechsystems.com Toll-Free: 1-888-818-4826 ctseast@contechsystems.com *Germanischer Lloyd certification pending; patent pending

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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The trade-mark and registered trade-mark are owned by Con-Tech Systems Ltd.

Remke Energy’s position as the electrical product expert is demonstrated, tested, and proven by their high-quality products with brand names that have been serving customers for 80 years. The brands of Remke Energy bring decades of electrical product experience, and the same high standards that have served the industrial OEM/MRO and contractor markets. Remke Energy provides high-performance electrical products that are available quickly and that are competitively priced. www.remkeenergy.com

2011 wind buyers guide

Seco Tools, Inc.

R&M Materials Handling, Inc. R&M Materials Handling, Inc. offers innovative solutions for lifting and handling operations that involve the use of windmill hubs. They study the conďŹ guration of windmill hubs in great detail to achieve a user-friendly work environment. They implement the layout adaptation to the space available and accessible (etc.) to facilitate all service and inspection interventions. They offer lifting equipment systems perfectly adapted to the windmill crib and its components (compact size, low weight, detachable parts, and low maintenance). The LoadMate includes a relatively large number of safety devices to monitor lifting operations. It also complies with the strictest health and safety regulations that apply to maintenance and repair operations. R&M Materials Handling offers optimum safety and increased productivity at substantially lower operating costs. www.rmhoist.com

Seco Tools Inc. offers tooling solutions for wind power components, and they understand the speciďŹ c challenges of the wind power industry. Seco introduces Jumbo Bridge Bar with 7-ft diameter bore capability and standard lengths up to 84.84-inches (specials up to 127"). The bridge bars are lighter-weight, yet rigid enough to handle multiple operations using the same insert holder including rough boring, ODoverturning, back boring, and ďŹ ne boring within IT5 tolerances. Secoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jumbo Bridge Bars can lower machining times, produce better quality, and reduce the stress on a machine spindle as compared to results obtained with milling by interpolation. www.secotools.com/us www.secotools.com/en-US/Global/Segment-Solutions/Windpower-Solutions

Schunk Graphite Technology SchaefďŹ&#x201A;er Group USA When it comes to the design and production of high-quality bearings for gearboxes, generators, and turbines, INA and FAG, brands of the SchaefďŹ&#x201A;er Group are well-recognized. Their XLife Cylindrical Roller, E1 Spherical Roller, and Spherical Plain Bearings, along with their Slewing Ring Bearings are the bearings of choice for this rapidly growing industry. In addition, their Industrial Aftermarket division offers a complete line of condition monitoring equipment, maintenance products, and services www.schaefďŹ&#x201A;er.us

US Digital US Digitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s precision motion control products are used in a wide variety of places: stepper motors, concentrated solar and renewable energy, manufacturing machinery, automation, robotics, and many other industrial applications requiring position feedback. Their innovative building blocks include absolute and incremental optical encoders, inclinometers, drives, PC interfaces, and more. US Digital specializes in custom solutions for unique applications, particularly within the renewable energy marketplace. The ability to design and manufacture custom solutions on site allows for short lead times, quick delivery, and superior customer service. www.usdigital.com

Monitoring and Control 8JOE t 4PMBS t (FPUIFSNBM

The success of your investments can ride on the accuracy of your measurements. With 35 years of proven field experience, unmatched reliability, and exceptional measurement quality, you can trust Campbell Scientific data acquisition systems when your measurements matter.

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For over 95 years, Schunk Graphite Technology has been making carbon brushes to enhance the performance of both generators and motors. Since then, the company has added brush holders, shaft grounding systems, lightning protection systems, ďŹ&#x201A;exible current connectors, and slip rings to support wind energy. They offer expert technical representation by their own employees, distributed across North America, as well as the most popular components stocked at their centrally located US manufacturing site. www.schunkgraphite.com

nacleanenergy.com

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435.750.1880 www.campbellsci.com/renewables

ANNIVERSARY

FIBOX Enclosures FIBOX is a global manufacturer of corrosionresistant plastic enclosures for the electronic and electrical industry. NEMA 4X enclosures protect products from hostile environments. FIBOX offers over 1000 off-the-shelf sizes with numerous accessories. www.ďŹ boxusa.com

2011 wind buyers guide AFL

Leeco Steel, LLC

AFL offers engineered products that support all aspects of the transmission and distribution electrical grids. Products offered range from transmission compression hardware, vibration dampening, motion controls, and substation products, to Copperweld and Alumoweld wire products. In addition, AFL manufactures end-to-end fiber telecommunications solutions. Their product offering also includes fiber optic cable, closures, fusion splicers, test equipment, and related accessories. www.afltele.com

Leeco Steel’s Wind Energy Division is involved in the wind turbine plate market. Leeco delivers tower shell plate, door frame plate, and plate for nacelle components across the North American wind market, and they are committed to being a top choice in wind tower and nacelle steel solutions. www.leecosteel.com

MICO, Incorporated MICO, Incorporated is a privately held engineering and manufacturing ﬁrm. MICO designs and manufactures hydraulic components, controls, and brake systems primarily for off-highway markets. Their quality components are engineered to the customer’s speciﬁcations and built to exceed their performance expectations. www.mico.com

Harrington Hoists, Inc. Harrington Hoists, Inc. (Kito Corp.) is an innovator of wind energy hoists. Meeting today’s most demanding applications, Harrington provides service, reliability, outstanding product features, and services not generally found by others. www.harringtonhoists.com

American Vulkan Corp Vulkan Drive Tech, a dedicated division of the Vulkan Group, comes to the wind energy market with over 120 years of experience in designing, manufacturing, and delivering mechanical power transmission and braking systems. Their couplings, composite shafts, brakes, and resilient mounts are designed using the latest FEM analysis tools and are available in a wide range of sizes and designs. www.vulkan.com

ILSCO ILSCO’s SureCrimp copper compression connectors accept multiple conductor classes including fine stranded and building wire. They are UL Listed and CSA Certified with ILSCO’s and major competitor’s compression tools; range taking when installed with approved tools and dies. Manufactured from high-strength seamless copper tubing and electrotin plated, which offers corrosion resistance and improved connector longevity. Circumferential dies produce strong, long-lasting crimps with a tight crimp profile for greater pull-out strength. www.ilsco.com

Lutze Inc. Overload current control, Lutze LOCC-Box provides reliable load monitoring and protection in 24V DC circuits. LOCC-Box serves well in remote locations and hard-to-access applications such as remote monitoring devices and windmills, thanks to its innovative features. These features include adjustable current range (1-10A), adjustable characteristics (fast, med, slow 1, slow 2, and slow 3), output alarm signal (at 90% of the load setting), and remote reset and on/off functions. Narrow construction ensures a compact design, even with multi-channel conﬁgurations. No de-rating is required as LOCC-Box functions independently of ambient temperature. Additional features such as Gateway communication capabilities for remote monitoring and analysis are possible with the Lutze LOCC-Box Net. Optional LOCC-Pads software offers the possibility for custom parameter setting, analysis, and diagnostics. www.lutze.com

NSK Corporation Established in 1916, NSK is a manufacturer of motion and control products with quality engineering research and technical innovation. NSK produces and distributes a wide range of rolling element bearings, linear motion, and automotive component products for a variety of applications. Operating in the Americas, NSK Corporation is a member of the NSK Ltd. Group. NSK Corporation has a network of sales and engineering teams working in partnership with customers to deliver high-performance products, application-speciﬁc solutions, technical support, and service to the Americas market. The company’s strategically located manufacturing and distribution centers supply both original equipment manufacturers and the industrial aftermarket through a broad distribution network. www.nskamericas.com

ENERGY

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PERFECTLY SUITED TO ANY ENVIRONMENT… EVEN THE MOST UNLIKELY

PMA USA

CG626 “ in ﬁeld trials, CG626 brushes exceed the […] life speciﬁcation.”

CARBON BRUSHES FOR WIND TURBINE GENERATORS

THE MOST POPULAR WIND BRUSH GRADE

Customer Quote

CARBONE OF AMERICA IS NOW MERSEN

The result of extensive R&D efforts and our comprehensive ¿eld testing program, Mersen grade CG626 offers outstanding performance in wind generators in all environmental conditions. CG626 will minimize your generator downtime and maximize its performance. low friction coefficient • extended brush life • minimal dusting • cooler running • optimum performance in all environmental conditions • no material expansion • tested and proven in North America Mersen is a world renowned supplier to major OEM’s of materials and solutions for extreme environments as well as in the safety and reliability of electrical equipment. www.mersen.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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PMA announces the launch of their PCS highly flexible, heavy grade conduit. These highly flexible, heavy grade conduits are characterized by outstanding resistance to weather and UV (sunlight), as well as by excellent low-temperature properties. They are designed for use in exterior applications, as well as applications involving movements in extreme weather conditions. The PCS conduit is manufactured from a high-grade, specially formulated polyamide 12 materials. The characteristics of this material give the conduit excellent resistance to UV rays and atmospheric corrosion. This product also has excellent flexibility, good mechanical strength at low temperatures and dry conditions, and is self-extinguishing and free from halogens and cadmium. The PCS conduits belong to the PMAFLEX product range and are a heavy duty conduit. Available in sizes NW 07 (1/4") to NW 95 (4"), they offer long life in external, dynamic and static environments, and excellent resistance to compression and impact forces. www.pma-usa.org

Experience the progress.

Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH P.O. Box 10, A-6710 Nenzing/Austria Tel.: +43 50809 41-473 Fax: +43 50809 41-499 crawler.crane@liebherr.com www.liebherr.com

The Group

2011 wind buyers guide Rotary Systems Rotary Systems offers diverse rotary union technologies such as mechanical seals, Teﬂon seals, hydrostatic seals, and integrated electrical slip rings. Found in wind turbine pitch systems, their rotary unions and slip rings are also used in automation, defense, oil and gas, semi-conductor, and other processing applications. Rotary Systems has manufactured over 700 unique rotating unions designs to date. www.rotarysystems.com

Wausaukee Composites Wind Turbine Components LLC Wausaukee Composites is a manufacturer of highly engineered composite components for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) customers in the wind energy, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, mass transportation, and corrosion-resistant materials handlings. Wausaukee Composites has over 300,000 square feet of total manufacturing capacity, and has four manufacturing plants in the mid-western US. www.wauscomp.com

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Con-Tech Systems Con-Tech Systems supplies Geo-Support Systems to anchor wind turbine tower foundations and transmission line towers. The company offers strand, high-strength solid bar and the CTS/TITAN Hollow Bar IBO Injection Bore System. The latter is particularly well-suited for transmission line towers in all ground conditions, speciﬁcally in sandy and gravelly soils where it offers substantial advantages over conventional systems. ConTech Systems backs up all their products through ongoing development and technical service to clients. They have developed a posttensioned deep foundation system for wind turbines as an alternative to concrete spread footings. This foundation is more economical than conventional mass foundations, is environmentally less intrusive, and works in soil and rock. Germanischer Lloyd certiﬁcation is applied for. www.contechsystems.com

CG Power Solutions CG Power Solutions (formerly MSE Power Systems) is a highly focused solution provider specializing in engineering and full design/ build turnkey services for the electrical system of wind plants. Responsible for interconnecting close to 25% of all wind energy in the US, and 8% in Canada, CG Power Solutions has proven they consistently complete wind projects in up to 50% less time than other EPC companies. Their extensive experience includes projects with voltage levels ranging from 2.4 kV to 765 kV. Their subsidiary CG Automation offers wind farm management tools to maximize facility performance. CG Automation recently acquired ADMS Wind SCADA technology, a system that monitors the operating conditions of all wind turbines and the entire facility at a wind generation plant. www.cgpowersolutions.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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ESAB Welding & Cutting Products ESAB Welding & Cutting Products introduces the FUB 30 roller bed for ﬁt-up of sections. This roller bed features a robust design to withstand the rugged environment in the welding industry. Designed in 1+1 sections, the system is fast and easy to assemble. Each set consists of one power and one idler roller bed 30T with four independently adjusted rollers to align the two sections with each other. The roller bed and the rollers are mounted on one main frame. The FUB 30 offers a maximum load of 30 tons with roller speeds of 130-1295 mm/min. Other features include steel rollers with polyurethane tires, an inverter-style drive control, and a remote pendant with push buttons. www.esabna.com

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INTELLIGENT YAW CONTROL keeps the turbine blades facing into the wind, by sensing changes in the wind before it reaches the turbine. Improved alignment with the wind increases power output and reduces wind turbine maintenance costs and downtime by lowering off-axis stress loads that damage turbine components.

PREDICTIVE BLADE PITCH CONTROL allows for smoother operation at rated power. Stress and fatigue can be reduced when blade pitch control is based on detecting approaching wind gusts. Rated power output can be maintained even in inconsistent wind without additional stress on system components. HELLPING WIND BECOME A MORE COMPETITIVE AND PROFITA ABLE GLOBAL ENERGY SOUR RCE

MORE POWER & LESS STRESS = MORE PROFIT INTRODUCING WINDSEEKERâ&#x201E;˘ HAND-HELD LASER WIND SENSOR Instantly measure wind speed and direction up to 1000 meters using a compact, lightweight device! Clearly visualize the nYjaYZd] oaf\ [gf\alagfk Yl \a^^]j]fl `]a_`lk oal` l`] Zmadl%af oaf\ hjgĂ&#x161;daf_ eg\]& L`] a\]Yd lggd ^gj oaf\ hjgkh][laf_$ lmjZaf] siting and turbine performance evaluation. Copyright ÂŠ2010 Catch the Wind, Inc. All rights reserved.

www.ccatchthewindinc.coom sales@catchthewindinc.com

2011 wind buyers guide

General Cable

Mortenson Construction

Fagen, Inc. Fagen, Inc. is one of the largest merit shop green energy design-builders in the US. Fagen, Inc. has constructed a variety of projects including wind farms, biomass plants, and power generation facilities. Fagen, Inc. owns the equipment necessary to meet industrial demand growth, including a large heavy crane ﬂeet. Their standard for quality, safety and service has led Fagen, Inc. to be listed in the top 40 in ENR’s largest contractors in the US. www.fageninc.com

Mortenson Construction has built safe, quality construction projects since 1954. As a full-service EPC and BOP contractor, Mortenson has been at the center of constructing more than 90 wind and solar projects, totaling more than 9,000 MW across the US and Canada. Mortenson is a USbased, family owned construction company that provides a complete range of services including planning, program management, pre-construction, general contracting, construction management, design-build, and turnkey development. www.mortenson.com/wind

Take a Look, See the Solution At the job site, BURNDY® knows there’s no room for guesswork. That’s why we’ve marked each of our HYDENT uninsulated copper compression terminals with:

General Cable provides a broad range of renewable energy products ideal for the wind market. These products include nacelle cables, which are engineered to withstand the flexing and vibrations typically experienced in the rigorous environment where the controls for the turbine are held; custom cable assemblies that meet customer specifications and offer ease of installation; tower cables, both copper and aluminum constructions, which provide cabling solutions for flexible and static vertical applications within the tower; insulated and bare grounding products that meet tower and system grounding requirements; high-dielectric-strength, low-dielectric-loss, underground collection system cables that provide efficient transmission of power to the substation for distribution; substation and transmission overhead and underground transmission conductors and cables that deliver power from the substation to the power grid; and, a full range of fiber optic Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system cables, which offer monitoring and operational networks for wind farms. www.generalcable.com

Tetra Tech Over the past decade, Tetra Tech has provided environmental, engineering, and construction services to develop, construct, and operate more than 350 wind projects representing 20,000 MW of power. Tetra Tech is the only North American company to provide this integrated service offering. Since 2005, Tetra Tech has worked on the EPC and BOP construction of 21 wind projects representing 2,000 MW of power. Tetra Tech provides clear solutions in consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services worldwide. www.tetratech.com

• • • •

Wire size and type, Die index, Color coding, and Proper number/ location of crimps.

With just a quick glance, properly installing and inspecting HYDENT terminals is easy and cost-effective. TM

As part of the BURNDY® Engineered System of coordinating dies, connectors, and tools, HYDENT terminals are always designed to work together and engineered to meet stringent, accepted quality standards. This gives the user complete confidence in the integrity of the connection. TM

Working with Wind? Call today to learn about our new BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of terminals designed especially for the wind-power industry. TM

Experience. Technology. Answers.

1-800-346-4175 USA | 1-603-647-5299 International | 1-800-387-6487 Canada 011-52-722-265-4400 Mexico | 011-55-11-5515-7200 Brazil | www.burndy.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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PCL Renewable Energy Division As part of the PCL family of companies, the PCL Renewable Energy Division brings a century-long track record of providing topquality construction solutions to customers in the emerging renewable energy sector. The PCL Renewable Energy Division is focused on providing Balance of Plant (BOP) and Engineer, Procure, Construct (EPC) services for customers in wind, solar, and bioenergy. They still operate under the same guiding principles that PCL was founded on, and continue to offer innovation through the services where PCL earned their reputation. Their approach to safety has resulted in a track record that is several times better than industry average. PCL’s geographically diverse and ﬂexible operations across North America afford the opportunity to serve clients in all renewable energy construction markets. www.pclrenewableenergy.com

Walter Payton Power Equipment As one of North America’s largest Manitowoc & Grove dealers, Walter Payton Power Equipment has an extensive inventory of quality cranes immediately available for wind applications. Whether it is large lattice boom cranes required for erection, hydraulic cranes for maintenance, or professional service to keep equipment up and running, Walter Payton Power Equipment is a source for wind power equipment, parts, and service. www.wppellc.com

We can take wind turbines to new heights.

Keep maintenance costs down and send productivity soaring with the complete range of Mobil SHC synthetic lubricants and greases. Each one is formulated to offer outstanding all-around performance, including equipment protection, keep-clean characteristics, and extended oil life. Take Mobilgear SHC XMP. Used in more than 30,000 wind turbine gearboxes worldwide, it’s trusted by builders, proven in the ﬁeld, and supported by exceptional application expertise. Just a few of the reasons we don’t simply make things run. We make them ﬂy. Visit mobilindustrial.com for more.

2011 wind buyers guide

Snap-on Industrial

Hayward Baker Inc.

White Construction White Construction specializes in Renewable Energy Power Generation projects by utilizing the strengths of their long-standing history of heavy industrial construction. White Construction was one of the pioneering companies in the early days of wind farm construction across North America. Their experience combined with highquality standards and safety practices has gained the company recognition in wind industry. Currently, they have installed more than 4,000 MW in the US and Canada. White Construction is distinctive in their ability to provide the engineering, procurement, and construction necessary to provide a turnkey approach to renewable energy projects. They have the knowledge, experience, equipment, and management to ensure projects are on time and within budget—a philosophy that has led to many repeat customers. www.whiteconstruction.com

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Wind is the fastest growing energy technology in the world, and Bechtel is addressing this expanding industry by adding value through innovation, technical resources, and integrated development, planning, deployment, and start-up/commissioning services. Drawing on experience and industry best practices, Bechtel stands ready to assist customers in putting this clean source of renewable energy to work. In projects, they use advanced technology to ensure new facilities are cost-efﬁcient and meet or exceed environmental standards. Bechtel has a track record of managing both large- and smallscale projects, including many industry ﬁrsts. They couple this with their ability to rapidly scale projects in a variety of global regions and climates to provide customers with certainty of outcome. In addition to meeting increased demand for energy, Bechtel-built power plants are serving the community by providing many jobs to local residents. www.bechtel.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

nacleanenergy.com

Hayward Baker Inc. is a North American geotechnical construction contractor that provides the complete range of geotechnical construction techniques for new and existing wind tower foundations including ground improvement, specialty piles, and grouting. Hayward Baker Inc. is ranked as the number 1 Specialty Foundation Contractor by Engineering News-Record. www.haywardbaker.com

Hypower, Inc. Hypower, Inc.’s Renewable Energy Division provides balance of plant construction services for solar/wind developers throughout the US. Hypower self-performs a majority of work (70%) on a wind or solar farm project, giving project shareholders the assurance of best cost, depth of experience, and higher quality. Their team provides developers with services related to preconstruction such as preliminary layouts, project execution plans, project one-lines, and interconnection assistance. Hypower’s other divisions are focused on electrical services such as overhead and underground power lines, security, telecommunications, and airﬁeld services. With 40 MW installed, they can handle any project. www.hypowerrenewableenergy.com

ITH Engineering, Inc. ITH GmbH offers bolting technology and manufactures bolt tensioning cylinders, hydraulic torque wrenches, hydraulic pumps, torque multipliers (electric, pneumatic, manual), as well as large diameter bolts, studs, nuts, and washers. ITH maintains a worldwide sales network, international patents, and offers qualiﬁed application engineers to assist with speciﬁc bolting needs. Within the wind industry, ITH provides tooling for all OEM wind turbines and designs most tooling directly with the manufacturers. www.ith.com

Snap-on Industrial’s low-profile socket/ ratchet sets get into cramped spaces and deliver performance. There’s nothing more frustrating than facing a tough fastener job in close quarters and not having the right tool. It’s a real-world, every day problem. Low-profile socket/ ratchet sets from Snap-on Industrial, a tooling solution for mechanical, hydraulic, and industrial applications, answer the need for sockets and ratchets that fit cramped quarters. Sizes include 1/4" drive metric and fractional and 3/8" drive metric and fractional—all up to 33% shorter than competitive options. Applications run the gamut—from wind power turbines in the renewable energy market to aircraft and aerospace segments. The 1/4” drive metric set features a low-profile ratchet and 10 six-point, low-profile sockets. A miniratchet with a 72-tooth gear means maximum torque with minimal movement in tight spaces. www.snapon.com/industrial

TenCate Geosynthetics TenCate Geosynthetics provides development of site reinforcement products for the wind energy market. TenCate has developed a complete line of highstrength geogrids and geotextiles specifically for renewable energy site construction. Mirafi geosynthetics improve conditions for construction access roads for large, heavy industrial trucks and cranes used to transport wind turbine components and construction materials to the wind turbine tower pad. Mirafi geosynthetics have solved intricate problems such as driving across sludge ponds, swamps, and mudslides for a wide variety of construction projects. Mirafi geosynthetics provide costeffective site stabilization and reinforcement solutions in the energy production industry for coal mining haul roads, oil field working platforms, wind energy roads, and tower pads. www.mirafi.com

POWER WAVE ® AC/DC 1000® SD

COMPLETE SOLUTIONS

TO MEET THE DEMANDING WELDING NEEDS OF THE WIND TOWER FABRICATION INDUSTRY. Lincoln Electric’s advanced Power Wave® equipment platform, combined with our complete line of submerged arc wire and flux, delivers superior welding performance on typical wind tower applications, such as longitudinal and circumferential seams, flanges, door frames and more. For a custom welding solution that delivers consistent, reliable performance while meeting the strict requirements for products used in wind tower fabrication–choose Lincoln Electric.

SUBMERGED ARC WIRE & FLUX

2011 wind buyers guide Townsend Corporation

CONSULTING SERVICES

GL Garrad Hassan

Townsend Corporation is a full-service provider to the energy industry. Founded in 1945, the company provides vegetation management and construction services to electric utilities, pipeline companies, wind energy developers, and other infrastructure companies. Their experience includes construction, operations and maintenance, and tower wiring. www.thetownsendcorp.com

ABS Consulting The Elexco Group

Walbridge Walbridge provides Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services for the wind industry. With ofﬁces in the US, as well as Canada and Mexico, Walbridge can fulﬁll all Engineering, Procurement and Construction needs throughout North America. www.walbridge.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

Founded in 1976, Elexco Ltd’s mandate is to provide a comprehensive range of land and title services for renewable energy development, as well as right-of-way needs to private enterprise, utilities, and governmental agencies. Services offered include: ROW, easement, wind farm agreements and surface use acquisition/disposition, post-construction damage settlements, title curative, 40-year searches / abstracts, Notice of Claim registration, title checks, drafting legal descriptions, registrations, and map data administration. www.elexco.com

ABS Consulting offers solutions to maximize revenues generated by wind energy assets throughout every phase of the life cycle. They provide a comprehensive range of services for owners, developers, manufacturers, and ﬁnanciers investing in wind energy. They are a global safety, risk, and integrity management company that combines practical experience with software and engineering. www.absconsulting.com

Abbie Gregg, Inc. Founded In 1985, Abbie Gregg, Inc. (AGI) provides engineering and consulting services for semiconductor, nanotechnology, PV, flat panel and flexible displays, MEMS, biotechnology, and other advanced technology industries. Their services include startup consulting, process improvements, industrial engineering, and high-tech operations support. They offer innovative engineering and consulting solutions that have been successful on over 700 projects spanning five continents. www.abbiegregg.com

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DARcorporation DARcorporation has been offering aeronautical engineering services since 1991. Services include design, analysis, wind tunnel testing, prototypes, and manufacturing of wind energy systems including horizontal and vertical axis wind turbines and unconventional designs. Once the aerodynamic design is known, the structural design starts. Detailed CAD drawings are provided for production of the prototype. Once built, engineers will supervise installation at a test site and collect test data. DARcorporation can go from initial design all the way to full size manufacturing. www.darcorp.com

GL Garrad Hassan is the world’s largest dedicated renewable energy consultancy and a recognized technical authority on the subject. It offers independent technical and engineering services, products, and training courses to the onshore and offshore wind, wave, tidal, and solar sectors. Although the GL Garrad Hassan name is new, the company has a rich heritage. It is borne of the integration of specialist companies that, united, form the renewable energy consulting division of the GL Group. GL Garrad Hassan is a consulting company; it has no equity stake in any device or project. This rule of operation is central to its philosophy, which sets them apart from competitors. www.gl-garradhassan.com

Hatch Hatch provides custom process design, business strategies, technologies, and project and construction management from 65 ofﬁces around the world for clients in the metals, energy, and Infrastructure market sectors. Programs and projects under management by Hatch have an aggregate value of $35 billion. Worldwide, Hatch has been involved in more than 10,000 MW of wind power. Complete wind farm development services include: wind resource assessments; ROI optimization; feasibility and due diligence; environmental and noise assessments; turbine evaluation/selection/supply agreements; full BOP (using our unique WTG evaluation tool); interconnection assessments; tendering; electrical and civil engineering; project and construction management; and, commissioning assistance. www.hatch.com

Keystone Engineering Keystone Engineering has developed an innovative offshore wind turbine foundation for water depths of 20m to 60m. This patented concept will offer significant cost savings during the fabrication and installation phases over conventional offshore wind foundations for turbines and met-towers (a Carbon Trust Offshore Wind Accelerator for Foundation Concepts finalist). As a multi-disciplined consulting engineering firm formed in 1988, Keystone’s staff has over 30 years of offshore design background. Specifically related to offshore foundations, Keystone’s management and structural engineers have designed numerous offshore oil and gas structures in various water depths both domestic and overseas. www.keystoneengr.com

2011 wind buyers guide

Romax Technology Limited

Pager Power Limited Founded in 1997, Pager Power is established as a British authority within the ﬁeld of radar and aviation studies. The company has developed a range of specialist software that allows it to offer technical analysis on the impact of wind farms on radar and communications links. Radar interference became a signiﬁcant issue in Britain before any other country—meaning that the company has developed a wealth of experience in managing and resolving radar issues, which can be applied in the US and Canada. Pager Power has the skill, relationships, and specialist software to solve aviation and radio system problems, and has helped to overcome a large number of planning objections. www.pagerpower.co.uk

Romax Technology Limited is an independent drivetrain consultancy offering technical consulting, design services, and software tools for gearboxes, drivetrains, and bearings for the wind energy industry. Recognized for its exceptional engineering capabilities, Romax provides innovative engineering solutions to some of the top OEM, transmission, and engineering companies within the energy industry. Romax offers both its consultancy services and its software package, RomaxWIND, to grant clients conﬁdence in all aspects of drivetrain design, analysis, and dynamics. Romax’s pioneering full-system ﬂexibility and software package encompasses 20 years of development and benchmarking in partnership with major OEMs and extensive research in conjunction with top academic establishments. A unique ‘whole system’ approach facilitates a vital understanding of each component and its interaction that leads to more reliable and robust turbine system design. www.romaxtech.com

TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION • DATA COMMUNICATIONS RENEWABLES • SUBSTATIONS • URBAN & RURAL TELECOM POWER PLOWING & TRENCHING • ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

We are Aevenia. The way energy moves.

The Tremont Group LLC Tremont Group leverages their expertise in M&A and the structuring and financing of significant energy related transactions with experience in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of energy assets. They take a dynamic, market-based approach to the financial, economic, and technical issues involved in energy capital asset budgeting and deployment. Their strategic advisory services include mergers and acquisitions; financial and valuation analysis; capitalization and financing; project development; structuring of long-term commercial contracts; and, management of price volatility. They work with generators, OEMs, as well as engineering, manufacturing, and construction companies to implement asset modernization programs. Their technical advisory services include project assessment, performance audits, and optimization analysis. Tremont provides integrated economic and financial analysis; environmental and carbon strategies; due diligence; construction management and cost control; and, expert testimony to owners and investment partners.

Crane Service Inc. Crane Service Inc. specializes in wind turbine maintenance and erection with various US ofﬁces. The company has over 15 years of experience in the wind industry, and has participated on turbine erection projects on wind farms throughout the US. Crane Service Inc. offers the experience and equipment to take care of what’s required. www.craneserviceinc.com

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

CRANES The Group

Idaho Department of Commerce

Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH

We are Aevenia, Inc., a premier energy and electrical construction company. We offer a powerful bundle of services and back it up with 40 years in the energy and electrical construction industry. Every day, we show our customers what it’s like to do business where trust, integrity, efficiency and quality are principal values.

www.aevenia.com • 218.284.9500 3030 24th Ave. So. Moorhead, MN 56560

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The 300-metric ton LR 1300 SX is one of Liebherr’s most successful crawler crane models. The new LR 1300 SX version of this crane has a main boom that permits worthwhile increases in both main boom and jib lifting capacities. In addition, the LR 1300 SX has a newly developed heavy duty jib for assembly and maintenance work on wind power installations. For this area of application, the crane is equipped with a narrow telescopic undercarriage for cost-effective travel movements when space on the ground is limited. The standard travel width of the LR 1300 SX is 8m, but the undercarriage can be closed up until its width is only 4.8m. The track width adjustment permits crane travel movements with all equipment installed. The new heavy duty jib is 8m long and rated for a maximum lifting capacity of 117t. Its full performance potential is revealed when it is used in conjunction with long booms and derrick equipment. www.liebherr.com

Idaho is making a name for itself in the rapidly growing US wind industry. Manufacturing and power generation facilities are quickly going into operation. Idaho has already attracted signiﬁcant attention in the green energy ﬁeld, being named one of the top states attracting green energy jobs. This year alone, several large projects have moved forward, including equity ownership in the state’s largest wind power project. The project consists of a portfolio of 11 wind farms valued at nearly $500 million, and it comes with a 20-year power purchase agreements with the state’s largest utility. Also, the Goshen North wind farm will be in full commercial operation by the end of the year, with a generating capacity of 124.5 MW, or enough to power about 37,000 homes. Idaho has a favorable business costs, a solid workforce, and a central location. www.renewable.idaho.gov

RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR A COMPLEX WORLD CONSTRUCTION

Over the past decade, Tetra Tech has provided environmental, engineering, and construction services to develop, construct, and operate more than

ENGINEERING

350 wind projects representing 20,000 MW of power. Tetra Tech is the only North American company to provide this integrated service offering. Since

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES & PERMITTING

2005, Tetra Tech has worked on the EPC and BOP construction of 21 wind projects representing 2,000 MW of power. Tetra Tech (NASDAQ: TTEK) is a $2.3 billion company with a strong balance sheet and a commitment to quality performance and safety. Tetra Tech provides clear solutions in consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services worldwide. www.tetratech.com

2011 wind buyers guide Indy Partnership

Abilene Industrial Foundation

Iowa Department of Economic Development

Pampa Economic Development Corporation

Wind energy is growing in Iowa. As the nation’s leader in wind generation as percentage of total power output, Iowa is home to ﬁve major wind manufacturers and ranked second nationally in installed capacity with nearly 3,670 MW. Through innovation, forwardthinking leadership, and a solid foundation of natural and intellectual resources, Iowa government and industry specialists are working to create a more proﬁtable future for wind energy in Iowa. As demand for wind energy continues to grow, Iowa has the fortitude, strong manufacturing industry foundation, excellent transportation infrastructure, and skilled workforce to grow production in this vital industry. www.iowalifechanging.com

Pampa Texas is at the intersection of highways 60 and 70 in the Eastern Texas Panhandle. They are a community of approximately 18,000 people with a diverse economy based on oil and gas, agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and with what is believed to be a great future in renewable energy—including wind. Pampa is located in the heart of the wind energy corridor, with class 4 winds as their big advantage. In addition, they are very fortunate to be on BNSF’s main line between Chicago and Los Angeles, with up to 100 trains traveling through Pampa on a daily basis. Pampa’s existing workforce is versatile and will have the opportunity to be trained in wind turbine technology through a local community college, Clarendon College Pampa Center. Another development in wind energy for Pampa includes a new transmission service provider, which has opened after having been chosen to build the new transmission lines in the region. www.pampaedc.com

Abilene is a business-friendly city with a probusiness attitude. The DevelopAbilene team is committed to creating a healthy economic climate, ﬁnding the best way to strengthen its businesses, building a better, more diverse economic base, and creating jobs for its residents. Abilene solicits new industries with aggressive incentives and opportunities, as well as assisting existing industries with their expansion plans. In addition to helping companies through incentives, Abilene also offers proximity to ground, rail, and air transportation, and an incredible workforce. Whether it’s site selection assistance, marketing, or existing business retention and expansion, they are a source of comprehensive information for expanding the relocating business. www.developabilene.com

Indy Partnership’s business development and research teams stand ready with detailed information on available sites within the Indianapolis region, as well as the latest data on regional economic trends—from their low cost of doing business to the high productivity of their workers. The Indianapolis region is home to a diverse economy with proven credentials in advanced manufacturing, logistics, and technology. Indy Partnership’s family of economic initiatives offers deep expertise in these sectors to help guide companies in the industry through the site selection process. www.indypartnership.com

Kansas Department of Commerce Business Development Corporation for a Greater Massena Massena, New York is a destination for wind manufacturers looking to establish a presence in the US, or locate a distribution facility on the New YorkCanadian border. www.massenaworks.com

Centrally located in the heart of the North American wind corridor, Kansas offers excellent access to the key regions for wind farm development and an operating environment for wind turbine component manufacturing. Leading wind energy companies have found Kansas to be an ideal location from which to serve the US market. The state is ranked number two nationally for wind potential, and has over 1,000 MW in installed wind generation. Positive state policies include an RPS of 20% by 2020 and property tax exemption for projects generating electricity from renewable sources. www.thinkbigks.com

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES

Providing Products and Support for the Renewable Energy Industries

Aevenia, Inc.

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Aevenia, Inc. is an energy and electrical constructor providing design-build services for collection systems, transmission, tower wiring, interconnection, substations, and ﬁber optic systems. They offer design, installation, and management to cover every critical aspect of a project, as well as a guarantee of safety, efﬁciency, and quality. When a project is complete, their maintenance division will help keep it in top condition. Aevenia offers a powerful bundle of services and backs it up with 41 years in the energy and electrical construction industry. www.aevenia.com

Focus on Medium Voltage

Research and Develoment Center: - Innovative Center for the development of products, services and solutions. - High Power Laboratory (HPL): Up to 2500 MVA. - Other testing facilities include: High Voltage, Temperature rise, Mechanical Laboratory, etc… - Certifications: ENAC (Ormazabal Corporate Technology A.I.E) ( Testing facilities certified by ENAC, certification Nº697/LE1521) e ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation)

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Focus on Medium Voltage

2011 wind buyers guide

Focus on Medium Voltage

Lectrus

American Electric Technologies, Inc.

IPS TRICO

American Electric Technologies, Inc. (AETI) is the premium provider of power delivery solutions to the traditional and alternative energy industries. AETI provides: LV, MV & HV Startup, Commissioning and Maintenance Services, such as electrical yard, substation, collection system and cabling design, analysis, construction, test, and maintenance services. LV & MV Power Generation, Conversion, Control, Distribution and Management Products, such as UL/IEC converters up to 6 MW, turbine pitch & yaw control units, UL/IEC power distribution units, MVANSI/IEC switchgear, energy storage systems, and met tower & electrical monitoring and data collection systems, all delivered with fast delivery times. Construction Assistance and Equipment Refurbishment Services, such as electrical system engineering, as well as procurement and construction assistance for OEMs, developers, contractors, and operators. www.aeti.com

IPS TRICO provides one of the most experienced and comprehensive service offerings in wind turbine repair, up-tower services, and replacement parts in North America. With regional service centers across the US, IPS TRICO responds on a local, regional, and national level. Their service centers offer standardized safety and quality programs, repair procedures, commercial terms, and IT systems. They have experience in repairing all major brands of wind generators in North America, and have developed and created repair procedures for many generator OEM’s. They are authorized by most OEM’s for generator repair and up-tower service. IPS TRICO has dedicated teams of uptower wind service technicians strategically located across the country to provide fast uptower service. They also provide wind generator unit exchange programs. www.tricotcwind.com

Lectrus is an electrical systems integrator and custom metal enclosure designer and manufacturer. They offer a unique combination of services, including custom engineering, project management, electrical integration, site installation, and post-sale customer support. Their product line of equipment centers, operator centers, custom cabinets, skids, generator enclosures, sub-base fuel tanks, and trailers offers both protection and ﬂexibility. Lectrus’ centers are movable and expandable. Their enclosures are engineered to order, and their generator packages and equipment skids give instant mobility. They serve industries as varied as their products. And, with three of the highest capacity manufacturing facilities in the industry, Lectrus can meet challenges coast-tocoast and across the globe. www.lectrus.com

Ormazabal As a manufacturer of medium-voltage equipment worldwide, Ormazabal provides clients with solutions for electrical distribution networks and renewable energy applications that are based on high added-value products and services. Ormazabal can rely on their personnel, knowledge, and commitment to establish mutually beneﬁcial relationships with their clients and suppliers. Their management is based on values: ﬂexibility, leadership, innovation, pragmatism, and support. Since Ormazabal was founded in 1967, it has been an engine for innovation in the electrical distribution sector, working closely with power companies and turbine manufacturers around the world. www.ormazabal.com

Mersen (Formerly Carbone Lorraine)

Trench captures the power of the wind T H E POWER O F T E C H N O L O G Y

• Air Core Reactors (incl. current limiting, load flow control, shunt, filter, neutral grounding, capacitor & smoothing reactors) • Total PLC Systems (trap, tuner, CCVT, PLC terminals) • Relay Communication Channels • Capacitor Voltage Transformers • Current Transformers • Potential Transformers

• Metering Transformers (available in extended range, high accuracy) • Variable Shunt Reactors (for Reactive Power Compensation) - ideal for Wind Farms • Low Power V/I Transformers • LV-HV Bushings (Pwr Transformer) • Capacitor Bank Protective Relays • Resonant Grounding Systems • Composite Bushing Insulators

71 Maybrook Drive, Toronto, Ontario M1V 4B6 Canada Tel: 416-298-8108 • Fax: 416-298-2209 • www.trenchgroup.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 68 WindGuide_2011.indd 1

2010

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Global expert in materials and solutions for extreme environments, as well as in the safety and reliability of electrical equipment, Mersen designs innovative solutions to address its clients’ speciﬁc needs, and to enable them to optimize their manufacturing process in sectors such as energy, transportation, and process industries. Mersen’s multiple solutions, encompassing signal transmission, brushes and brush-holders, as well as fuses and coolers, have enabled them to become a supplier to the wind energy segment. www.mersen.com

Point Lighting Corporation Point Lighting Corporation manufactures aviation obstruction lighting for use on wind turbines and other tall structures, and also LED heliport lighting systems. Wind turbine beacons include GPS ﬂash synchronization. Point Lighting Corporation products are made in US and certiﬁed to FAA, ICAO, ATEX, CSA, and other applicable standards of safety and quality. www.pointlighting.com

Wieland Electric

S&C Electric Company S&C is applying its heritage of innovation to address challenges facing the world’s power grids and, thereby, shaping the future of reliable electricity renewable generation and its delivery. The mission of employee-owned S&C is to continually develop new solutions for renewables and electricity delivery, fostering the improved efﬁciency and reliability www.sandc.com

STEGO Inc. The STEGO LED 025 offers an 870 lumen output at 6500K daylight color temperature. Units are available in commonly used AC or DC voltages. Power consumption is a mere 5W, less than half of equivalent ﬂuorescent lights and the service life is 60,000 hours, more than double the life of a typical ﬂuorescent. Screw or magnet mount options are available and it is possible to “through feed” or “daisy chain” from one light to the next connecting up to 10 lights from the same source. These lights come complete with integral power supplies. UL Recognition pending. www.stegousa.com

Trench Limited Trench Limited is a specialized manufacturer of high-voltage electrical equipment dedicated to serving the electrical industry worldwide through engineering, service, and commitment. The Trench basket of products are made up of air-core reactors, variable impedance shunt reactors, line traps, instrument transformers (including current and voltage transformers, capacitor voltage transformers, and combi CT/PT units), transformer bushings, and power line carrier equipment. Many of these products are directly linked to applications within wind and solar farms, from high-accuracy, extended range metering instrument transformers to shunt reactor units used to compensate for capacitive VARs generated by lightly loaded transmission lines or underground cables. www.trenchgroup.com

For over a decade, Wieland Electric has supplied electrical interconnect components to the wind industry. Wind turbine manufacturers select Wieland’s heavy duty revos rectangular connectors and DIN rail mount terminal block assemblies for a variety of reasons. Rugged revos electrical connectors provide simple pluggable installation, robust protection, reliability, EMI shielding, long life, and low maintenance connections, reducing costs and loss of revenue created by unplanned maintenance. Pre-assembled DIN rail mount terminal blocks provide value-added assemblies to speed installation and permit global designs. Wieland offers its customers quality products and services, a worldwide supply chain, and the capacity to match the wind industry’s growth. www.wielandinc.com

A Renewable Energy Leader

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www.whiteconstruction.com • 1-800-355-9401 North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide Aldridge Electric, Inc. Aldridge Electric, Inc. is recognized as one of the largest privately held specialty electrical contractors in the nation, and has become an industry expert in constructing and integrating renewable power. Aldridge has a ﬂeet of nearly 900 pieces of equipment. Along with union tradesmen and project managers, they have the capacity to place highly skilled, fully equipped construction crews on projects anywhere across the US. www.aldridge-electric.com

DIS-TRAN Packaged Substations DIS-TRAN Packaged Substations specializes in the design and supply of high-voltage, open-air substations, switchyards, and transmission lines. They approach each project as an opportunity to improve their customers’ success by providing innovative designs, efﬁcient material logistics, and successful partnering strategies. DIS-TRAN’s fast, friendly, and experienced staff is dedicated to supporting projects at every phase, from development through close-out. www.distran.com

Cooper Power Systems Cooper Power Systems is a manufacturer of medium-voltage electrical products for wind collector systems including padmount transformers and a full line of 35KV/600A cable accessories. They are also a manufacturer of capacitors for power factor correction at the substation. www.cooperpower.com

MorganAM&T MorganAM&T offers quality wind turbine parts including carbon brushes, brush holders, springs, and slip rings. MorganAM&T is committed to supplying the highest quality slips rings made with leadingedge technology. MorganAM&T’s molded slip ring is manufactured by using high-pressure to form the resin as one piece while securing the ring to the hub. Their molded slip rings are made with the latest innovations in resin compounds that incorporate many advantages. This design totally encapsulates all current carrying components, inhibits harmful dust intrusion and contamination, and increases the dielectric strength. These can be engineered to improve airﬂow, which reduces the amount of thermal build-up, and they are manufactured cost efﬁciently. All MorganAM&T slip ring have been high-speed tested and exposed to extreme temperatures to ensure optimum performance. www.morganamt.com

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. The SEL-700GT Intertie Protection Relay provides a complete intertie and generator protection solution for distributed generation and is IEEE 1547-2003-compliant for both the electric utility grid and distributed generation equipment. The SEL700GT includes IEEE C37.118 synchrophasors for load modeling, islanding detection, disturbance recording, improved situational awareness, and real-time control. Numerous communications options are available including Ethernet, IEC 61850, DNP3, and Modbus. www.selinc.com

Highline Products Highline Products manufactures fiberglass and polymer concrete products designed to help with the electrical interconnection of a wind farm to the utility grid. They manufacture fiberglass transformer box pads, sectionalizing cabinets, and fiber optic splice boxes, as well as other products. www.highlineproducts.com

K-Line Maintenance & Construction The K-Line Group has been involved in many wind farm projects throughout Canada, and has the experience and expertise necessary to assist in the development of any wind project. Speciﬁcally, the KLine Group of companies specializes in turnkey wind farm Electrical Balance of Plant (EBOP) solutions from 600 V to 230 kV. In-house capabilities include IESO and HONI submissions, civil, mechanical and electrical engineering, distribution, transmission and substation construction, commissioning and maintenance services, as well as 24/7 emergency response. With ofﬁces located in Canada and the US, they are able to service North American and International markets alike. www.k-line.ca

Shermco Industries

Rosendin Electric One-hundred percent employee owned, Rosendin Electric is the largest privately held electrical contractor in the US. Rosendin Electric has constructed nearly 60 wind projects throughout the US. They have installed electrical systems supporting over 3,600 wind turbines generating in excess of 6,200 MW of renewable power. Rosendin Electric’s core mission continues to be providing high-quality service, safety, and value, which is the reason over 90% of their work is with repeat customers. www.rosendin.com

Founded in 1974, Shermco Industries provides safe, reliable testing, repair, professional training, maintenance, and analysis of rotating machines, electrical power distribution systems, and related equipment for light, medium, and heavy industrial bases. Shermco is comprised of a Machine Services and an Engineering Services division. www.shermco.com

Thomas & Betts

OWN YOUR OWN WIND FARM To ﬁnd out how you can partner with OwnEnergy and develop your own wind farm contact us today! Call us at (646) 898-3690 or email us at info@ownenergy.net Visit our website at www.ownenergy.net to learn more about the wind development process and our qualiﬁed team of experts.

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Thomas & Betts provides a comprehensive line of electrical products that connect and protect wind farms and power distribution systems. The high quality of Thomas & Betts products ensures reliable performance, while a staff of experienced engineers provides dependable support. Product innovations include the 38kV Hi-Tech Trans-Guard OS Shorty Backup Fuse, specifically designed to protect pad-mount transformers, used on wind farms, from faults as high as 50kA. Another example is the 38kV/25kA Elastimold MVI Molded Vacuum Interrupter, developed as a maintenance-free switchgear package that fits through wind tower doors, enabling more flexibility in construction sequencing when towers are erected. The combination of line breadth, product quality and technical support makes Thomas & Betts the brand of choice for specifiers in the wind power industry. www.tnb.com

Waukesha Electric Systems

Hemmera

Waukesha Electric Systems, an SPX company, is one of the largest US manufacturers of power transformers in the range of 2.5 to 1200 MVA, up to 500Kv, and is a valued supplier of transformer, LTC, and circuit breaker components. Waukesha also offers a variety of substation-applicable training classes for all skill levels and provides complete transformer service solutions for almost any manufacturer’s units including installation, maintenance, relocation, testing and engineering assessments; oil processing, dryouts and retrofills; corrective and preventative maintenance; load tap changer field retrofits and repairs. www.waukeshaelectric.com

Hemmera has a long and successful track record in North America for deploying innovative and cost-effective renewable energy solutions, and has been involved in the wind energy industry right from the start. Their team specializes in building and community wide energy assessments and audits, solar hot water and solar photovoltaic, and geoexchange (ground source or geothermal heat pump) heating and cooling for building retroﬁts, new build projects, and district energy systems. With nearly 10 years of experience in the design and construction of renewable energy systems, Hemmera possesses the know-how in terms of accurately sizing solar and geoexchange systems for various building heating applications. They are a trusted partner to clients, supporting their economic, environmental, and social project objectives. By delivering a strong triple-bottom line return on investment, a building’s carbon footprint is reduced while energy costs are cut. www.hemmera.com

ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Ecology and Environment, Inc. E & E offers the strategic professional and technical services wind energy developers need to get online fast. Operating from 30 domestic ofﬁces, their multi-disciplinary team has collectively worked on more than 200 North American wind projects. They provide environmental consulting services, conduct environmental assessments, prepare environmental documentation and permit applications, and perform due diligence assessments for all types of wind projects. www.ene.com/service/energy/wind.aspx

“I would like to express my appreciation to Safway in striving to meet all of EnergyWorks Field Services Suspended Access needs. ... We admire your willingness, energy and organizational abilities in working with our team.”

Ayres Associates

Chris Sellers

Ayres Associates is a multi-specialty engineering ﬁrm providing an array of capabilities that apply directly to the wind industry including survey, aerial photography, photogrammetric mapping, LiDAR services, site-civil engineering, construction management, transportation design, and environmental services. Because the ﬁrm performs energy related projects nationwide, and often in remote areas, it has procedures to facilitate rapid staff mobilization. Ayres Associates stresses the importance of communication, ensuring clients get to know the project managers well, and for the right reasons. www.ayresassociates.com

EnergyWorks Field Services

2011 wind buyers guide FINANCIAL SERVICES

Power Brokers Insurance, Inc. Power Brokers Insurance’s principals have over 60 years of combined experience providing insurance for all types of energy related operations. www.powerbrokersins.com

Taylor-DeJongh

Kleinfelder Kleinfelder is a global science and engineering consulting ﬁrm serving the energy market. Their work spans a variety of wind, solar, geothermal, ethanol, and biomass projects across the country. Kleinfelder provides: premium environmental assessment and permitting services; supports designers and constructors of new energy projects through engineering design services (geotechnical, structural, and civil), and construction materials testing; and, assists clients with continued environmental compliance. www.kleinfelder.com

ORTECH Power ORTECH Power is a renewable energy consulting firm that specializes in getting wind projects completed; from project management to permitting to financial analysis onto commissioning. ORTECH’s practical experience provides its’ clients with sound advice during all phases of a project. ORTECH provides a variety of technical services such as due diligence, wind resource assessment, micrositing/layout, financial analysis, engineering support, O&M budgeting/ forecasting, M&A services, EPC RFP support, owners’ representative, and project management services. www.ortech.ca

GreenPower Capital Project finance, leasing, acquisitions… Greenpower Capital has partnerships with several institutional investors that represent a combined $30 billion in funds earmarked for wind and solar renewable energy projects. Their Early Stage Developer Buyout Program can pay a 3% to 6% developer fee upfront, depending on the project economics—the developer can stay in the project or opt out. Projects should have site control and executed PPA. Greenpower’s Leasing Program provides flexible lease terms for smaller systems of 100Kw and up. Their Equity and Debt Finance Programs can provide a developer with equity investment or debt financing. The Full Project Acquisition Programs are designed to purchase completed projects—the investor will contract for purchase prior or after construction. For preconstruction commitments, 100% of construction funds can be advanced in most cases, with final take-out purchase at COD. Projects should be shovel-ready with requirements similar to the Early Stage Buyout, as well as interconnect agreement, system design, EPC contract, and the necessary approvals. www.greenpowercap.com

Taylor-DeJongh (TDJ), an energy and infrastructure investment banking firm, has expertise across a broad spectrum of alternative technologies and renewable energy projects including wind, solar, fuel cells, geothermal, and hydropower. The firm is advising on several conventional and renewable power projects internationally including transactions in wind, solar, and biomass in Europe, and is a financial advisor to the USDOE Loan Guarantee Program. TDJ has advised on over 240 power projects globally. TDJ offers project development, capital structuring, and project financing services, and has over 29 years of experience in closing energy projects. TDJ provides tailor-made capital solutions to its clients. The firm also advises clients on corporate finance, capital raising, and M&A transactions. www.taylor-dejongh.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

GCube Insurance Services, Inc. For over 20 years, GCube has been insuring renewable energy technologies, covering wind, solar, biofuels, hydroelectric, as well as wave and tidal energy projects around the globe. Their specialized focus and underwriting authority offers unparalleled property and casualty coverage for all construction and operational risks. They understand the unique exposures of the renewable power generation projects of today and help clients identify, quantify, and mitigate risk efﬁciently and economically while helping them achieve their business objectives. www.gcube-insurance.com

Renewable Energy Insurance Partners Renewable Energy Insurance Partners was founded with the goal of providing superior service and cost-effective insurance and risk management. They are committed to maintaining a high standard of excellence and continually expand their knowledge through advanced training and experience. Renewable Energy Insurance Partners has strategic alliances with insurance underwriters and specialists who are dedicated to meet the challenges of navigating the complex insurance coverage mineﬁeld. They offer all lines of insurance including Workers Compensation, General Liability, Builder’s Risk, Professional Liability, Automobile, Excess Liability, Property, and Surety Bonds. www.renewableins.com

LARGE WIND TURBINE Mfg (over 100 kW)

THE WINDS HAVE CHANGED. Nordic Windpower

There is a new direction in wind power bolting tools. We are going to change the way you look at wind turbine bolting solutions. Titan Technologies has taken local service to a higher level, delivering the most dependable, fast and efﬁcient gold label service.

SUPERIOR BOLTING SOLUTIONS ®

1-281-449-9994 www.titanti.com

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Holmes Murphy & Associates Holmes Murphy, through its Renewable Energy Division, provides financial institutions, equity partners, and purchasers new opportunities for grey market wind turbines. Through an insurance-backed extended warranty solution, those who have invested in a wind farm have the opportunity to sell the turbines at a fair price or refinance to revive a stalled project. The warranty takes effect after manufacturers’ initial two- or five-year warranty expires, and covers parts availability, direct and indirect labor costs, liquidated damages, and serial losses for up to 10 years after the equipment is commissioned. Businesses in the wind power industry benefit by the removal of liabilities from their balance sheets, because bond-rating agencies see the business’ financial statements differently. The result is better equity position and more prosperous balance sheets. www.holmesmurphy.com

Nordic Windpower is a technology developer and manufacturer of innovative, two-bladed wind turbines. Nordic’s N1000, a simple, lightweight 1 MW wind turbine is known for its unsurpassed ease of installation and maintenance, exceptional reliability, and low cost of energy generation. Nordic’s vision is as a utility scale wind turbine provider for community wind, on-site generation, and small wind farms. Nordic’s technology dates back to a 20-year $75 million investment in R&D by the Swedish Government in 1975. Since acquiring the technology and receiving its ﬁrst major funding in 2007, the company has invested more than $36 million in technology innovation and commercialization. www.nordicwindpower.com

Vergnet Wind Turbine Nordex In North America, Nordex USA, Inc. manufactures and sells the Gamma Generation of their proven N90 and N100 2.5 MW turbines. As one of the ﬁrst companies to enter the multi-megawatt market, they’ve combined 25 years of experience with their technological expertise to produce high-quality turbines—engineered for efﬁciency and ease of service, and recognized for dependable performance and reliable yields in a wide variety of wind and weather conditions. More than 4,200 Nordex wind turbines are in operation around the globe. www.nordex-online.com

TM4 Inc. TM4 designs and delivers customized permanent magnet generators to meet the speciﬁc performance requirements of today’s large wind turbine and genset manufacturers. TM4’s high-power density generator combines several techniques that together provide a design with numerous advantages. This optimization results in a lighter (50% weight reduction) and smaller (30% volume reduction) generator. TM4’s permanent magnet generator also produces energy at very high-efﬁciency levels (98%) over a wide range of operating speeds and power. This results in the lower cost of the energy produced. www.tm4.com

Vergnet is a 20-year old business, designing and manufacturing turbines of 275 kW and 1 MW. They bring the US market the most modern turbine in the range of 100 kW to 300 kW with more than 415 units installed worldwide since 2001. Equipped with light components and full pitch control system, the turbine can operate in hot and corrosive or cold weather environments. Available in two versions, one monopole tower and one tilt-up tower, it is adapted to DG projects where annual load is in the range of 300 MWh to 1 GWh. It offers the quality of a utility scale turbine and the small-scale easiness of installation since it can be transported everywhere on standard trucks. www.vergnet.com

Windflow Technology Windflow Technology is a publicly listed New Zealand-based wind turbine design and manufacturing company. Windflow manufacturers the IEC Class 1A certified Windflow 500, which is a 500 kW, two-bladed, 33m rotor wind turbine. With its proprietary torque limiting gearbox technology, customers benefit from a robust lightweight gearbox that that allows the use of a synchronous generator directly on line. The Windflow 500 is, therefore, easy and cost-effective to integrate into the electricity grid. www.windflow.co.nz

There’s only one way to ensure it. Galvanize. There’s nothing greener than galvanized steel. 100% recyclable zinc and steel help us protect the environment. Strengthen your commitment to long-term sustainability. Visit us online to learn more. azzgalvanizing.com

We Protect More Than Steel.

North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide LEGAL SERVICES

LIGHTING

Milbank

Hughey & Phillips

TWR Lighting, Inc. Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy is an international legal advisor to the renewable energy industry representing sponsors, investors, and financing parties in the development, financing, acquisition, and disposition of renewable energy projects. The Firm also provides counsel on regulatory issues and intellectual property matters relating to renewable energy projects. In its 30 years of experience in renewable energy, Milbank has successfully completed over 200 renewable energy deals, totaling over 10,000 MW of renewable power. The Firm is consistently named by industry journals, including “Project Finance International,” “Infrastructure Journal,” and “New Energy Finance,” as one of the foremost law firms serving the renewable energy industry. Milbank has offices throughout the US and in major financial centers around the world. www.milbank.com

TWR Lighting Inc./Orga Aviation introduces a new L450 LED all-in-one solution. The new L450 product range of red and red/white, medium-intensity LED obstacle lights incorporate the most advanced optical engineering design and LED technology, enabling the development of costeffective solutions for the medium-intensity obstruction light market. The new L450 products are focused on minimizing the visual impact that obstacle lights can have on the surrounding environment while, at the same time, further reducing power consumption. The L450’s all-in-one concept follows the designs successfully adopted over the past 10 years in the L350 product with the light having a builtin power module, controller, and GPS synchroniser. This product design makes the lights simple to install, enables them to operate reliably under the harshest conditions, and minimizes both the capital costs and cost of ownership. www.twrlighting.com

Nixon Peabody LLP Nixon Peabody LLP has served the needs of traditional and renewable energy clients—including utilities, developers, sponsors, investors, and other players in the industry—for decades. Their legal services cover a comprehensive range of energy related legal and business concerns, such as siting and permitting, ﬁnancing, project development, contracting, regulatory, environmental, M&A, and litigation. They have been involved with wind projects throughout the US and internationally, providing the multidisciplinary experience to meet the comprehensive legal needs of clients who are developing, constructing, and ﬁnancing these facilities. www.nixonpeabody.com 74

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OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

PSI Repair Services, Inc.

Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC BS&K represents alternative and traditional energy companies in matters involving state and federal environmental laws, labor and employment law, real property tax assessment, and transactional matters such as contracts and purchases and sales of property, ﬁnance, intellectual property, governmental relations, construction law, and litigation. They are actively engaged in siting power plants, wind farms and transmission facilities, evaluation of alternative uses for cogeneration plants, negotiation of power purchase and sales agreements, and the sale of power production facilities. www.bsk.com

Hughey & Phillips has been providing obstruction lighting solutions for over 70 years. With a full line of incandescent, strobe, and LED technologies, their products are designed to meet all current FAA and ICAO speciﬁcations. The Xenon strobe systems have been used for over 20 years, and have the highest reliability of any current marketed strobe system. It is also the only “green” strobe because it produces no harmful ozone gas. Hughey & Phillips’ LED products provide long-life solutions to incandescent systems. www.oblighting.com

EverLast Induction Lighting The EverLast PVW Hybrid Induction Lighting System is a solar- and wind-powered area light system that utilizes a wind turbine, two solar panels, and a battery to store energy—making it a completely sustainable lighting system. Energy efﬁcient, sensor-controlled EverLast induction lamps make this green technology possible. The EverLast PVW is free-standing and completely off the grid, allowing consumers to decrease spending by reducing energy and maintenance costs associated with other lighting systems. EverLast Induction Lighting is a subsidiary of Full Spectrum Solutions, Inc. and has quickly grown into a manufacturer of energy efﬁcient lighting solutions for roadway, parking structure, facility, and area lighting applications. www.everlastlight.com www.fullspectrumsolutions.com

According to a March 2010 Wind Systems Magazine article titled “Maintenance,” by the end of 2010, for the ﬁrst time in US history, more wind turbines will be operating out of warranty than will be covered. This trend will continue through the decade, causing maintenance and repair to become larger issues for project owners. PSI Repair Services offers fast, affordable, expert repairs for electronic and mechanical wind turbine components from all the major manufacturers. In addition, PSI provides the option to remanufacture obsolete components. Repairing wind turbine components, versus replacing them with new parts, can decrease maintenance costs by as much as 70%. www.psi-repair.com

TorcUP Inc. TorcUP Inc. specializes in the supply of industrial bolting tools used for tightening and loosening heavy duty nuts and bolts. TorcUP offers tools that are available in both pneumatic and hydraulic powered models, as well as a new series of bolt tensioning tools for the wind power generation industry. The tool range is suitable for complete wind turbine erection or maintenance programs on a variety of wind turbine models. TorcUP understands that changes in the industry require changes in tooling providing safer, more reliable designs that will get the job done. www.torcup.com

Safway Services, LLC The SafAscent Wind Turbine Platform is speciﬁcally designed for maintenance and inspection of wind turbines, enabling unrestricted access with three sets of padded rollers to protect the wind tower and blades. The modular platform provides a safe, simple way to travel up the tower. Hoists ensure quick access with climbing speeds of 35 feet per minute. SafAscent exceeds OSHA, OH&S, and ANSI standards, and meets all UL and CSA requirements. Safway provides SafAscent for wind farms in any location throughout the US and Canada—no matter how remote. www.safway.com/wind

Superbolt, Inc. Superbolt’s multi-jackbolt tensioners provide an effective bolting alternative for difﬁcult wind turbine applications. Superbolt tensioners dramatically reduce the torque required to tighten and loosen large nuts by using a ring of jackbolts around the nut or bolt head that thrust against a hardened washer and generate clamping force. Only hand/air tools are required to install or remove any size tensioner. Because only hand tools are required, Superbolt tensioners are extremely safe, fast, easy to install, and cost efﬁcient. Joint integrity is also maintained because they are loaded in pure tension (without twisting), greatly reducing the likelihood of joints vibrating loose and eliminating thread galling and seizing of mating parts. www.superbolt.com

2011 wind buyers guide

Triple R Oil Cleaner Triple R’s patented filtration technology has proven to maintain oil in wind turbine gearbox and hydraulic systems at as much as five grades cleaner than new oil. One system removes water, solid, and sludge contamination. Triple R bypass filtration eliminates unnecessary downtime and oil related problems. OEM approved. www.triple-rrr.com

Total Wind Canada Inc. Total Wind Canada Inc. is an independent and privately owned company specialized in providing skilled and experienced manpower within the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. The company’s projects are handled with the utmost dedication and passion for all concerned. Total Wind’s dedicated team of supervisors, project managers, and technicians has many years of experience on a variety of makes and models of turbines, which have been gained in North and South America and through their European subsidiaries. Quality, safety, ﬂexibility, and teamwork are all keywords in their way of doing business, which is enhanced by Total Wind employees being educated with in-house and manufacturer training. In collaboration with their clients, Total Wind carefully plans project and logistic needs while ensuring their clients maintain a competitive edge in the everchanging wind power market. www.totalwind.com

B9 Energy

Conexo Inc.

B9 Energy was founded in 1992 for wind farm development. B9 Energy O&M was formed in 1994 for the purpose of providing operations, maintenance, administration, and general management services to developers and owners of wind farms and, then, sold its development holdings to focus on O&M. B9 Energy Wind is also the world’s ﬁrst to achieve Integrated Management System (IMS) accreditation to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and compliance with OHSAS 18001. Services include wind farm operations, maintenance, management, commissioning, turbine inspections, retro-ﬁts, etc. www.b9energy.com

Recondition mechanical components for wind turbines and provide long-term protection against wear with Conexo Inc. Rewitec is applied on site to mechanical components such as gears and bearings. It builds a surface treated layer on metal that is under friction and load. As a result, the components last longer, the availability increases, and the operating costs go down. The technology received a Husum Wind Innovation award. www.rewitec.us/wind

Encore Power Development LLC Composotech Structures Composotech Structures is a multi-functional composite manufacturer servicing the wind energy industry in the US and Canada. For 15 years, Composotech has been offering service, repair, and inspection of wind turbine blades. Composotech has developed an in-house training and certiﬁcation program. Their rotor blade services overview includes: up-tower blade repairs; wrap around platform; down-tower blade repairs; full-service blade repair facility; blade mould design/engineering; blade mould manufacturing; wind blade prototyping; wind blade manufacturing; leading/trailing-edge repairs; rotor balancing; pitch veriﬁcation of blades; annual cleaning and inspections of blades; and, owner’s representative during blade manufacturing at OEM. They also offer NDT inspections, UT scans, shearography, thermography, and static blade testing. www.composotech.com

Abloy Security, Inc. Abloy is a manufacturer of locks, locking systems, and architectural hardware and a developer of products in the ﬁeld of electromechanical locking technology. ABLOY is an ASSA ABLOY Group brand. ASSA ABLOY offers door opening solutions, dedicated to satisfying end-user needs for security, safety, and convenience. www.abloyusa.com

One-stop O&M services for owners, OEM’s, asset managers in the wind space. Encore can also support tower erection and cabling support for wind farm construction. www.encorepowerservices.com

GARD Specialists Co., Inc. GARD Specialists develops and markets specialty maintenance products of unusual quality. They target heavy industrial maintenance operations nationwide. Unlike other suppliers, GARD Specialists offers truly unique products, technical support, and a skilled sales force. They provide companies with practical, cost-effective solutions to help lower downtime and increase operational efﬁciency. www.gardspecialists.com

One of the most diverse

economies…

Saskatoon Saskatoon is situated along the banks of the scenic South Saskatchewan River, in the heart of the prairies. The city region is linked to the world by a first-class international airport, and has excellent road, rail, and air connections to Western Canada and the Midwest United States. The city lies 348 km (216 miles) north of the U.S. border, 225 km (140 miles) east of the Alberta border, and 346 km (215 miles) west of the Manitoba border. 2010 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study ranks Saskatoon first with the most competitive business environment, at the lowest cost, among cities in the Midwest United States and Western Canada with a population of 500,000 or less.

10 reasons why Saskatoon is a great choice for business

1. Economic Growth 2. Market Diversity 3. Investment Climate 4. Cost Competitive 5. Location to markets

For more information on the Saskatoon Region, please contact SREDA at 306.664.0720 or toll free at 1.800.706.1977 | www.sreda.com 76

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6. Research & Innovation 7. World class education system 8. Highly skilled labour market 9. Quality of Life 10. Cultural diversity

LUDECAwind VIBXPERT II Wind Turbine Vibration Analyzer is a fast and color display vibration analyzer for condition assessment on constant or variable speed wind turbines. The VIBXPERT II records all forms of machine vibrations, bearing conditions, structural noise, process data, and visual inspection information. www.ludecawind.com

Sky Climber Wind Solutions Sky Climber Wind Solutions is a vertically integrated, full-service O&M provider and composites repair team, with expertise focused on providing world-class services. Historically positioned with experience in designing, manufacturing, and distributing suspended access systems to the wind industry, Sky Climber Wind Solutions now brings the same innovative focus to O&M and composite services. www.skyclimberwindsolutions.com

Outland Renewable Energy Outland is a North American independent service provider. They offer fully integrated service solutions to wind turbine OEM’s and asset owners including, but not limited to, project commissioning, project operations, scheduled maintenance, and unscheduled repairs. www.outlandenergy.com

Rev1 Renewables Offering wind turbine inspections, Rev1 Renewables provides skilled technicians with experience in performing due diligence, construction support, and warranty inspections on all models of wind turbines and related equipment, including: turbine receiving inspections; construction quality walkdown; pre-purchase condition assessments, end-of warranty QA inspections; and, health and safety audits. For wind turbine maintenance, Rev1 Renewables offers customized packages that have an economic advantage for a single mobilization of work crews. By selecting from a list of additional services, clients can conduct additional maintenance using the same Rev1 team at only the additional cost of labor. These additional services include: oil changes; tower torque checks; bolt tensioning; retroﬁts; gearbox borescope inspections; blade inspections; infrared surveys; in-service vibration analysis; and, turbine condition-based assessments. www.rev1renewables.com

Get Your Green Light Faster E & E drives schedules for project success. SITING E & E’s environmental planning teams perform all required studies for avian/bat and other sensitive species, terrestrial and aquatic/wetland habitat, meteorology, cultural resources, land use, socioeconomics, noise, and radar.

Wind Mark Schmitt (716) 684-8060 mschmitt@ene.com Geothermal David McIntyre (619) 696-0578 dmcintyre@ene.com

Sage Oil Vac Sage Oil Vac manufactures the Gear Oil Exchange System for turbine gearbox maintenance. The system features an on-board ﬁltration system, heating system, containment pan, and air compressor. Flush capabilities are optional. Techs utilizing the Gear Oil Exchange System experience faster oil changes and reduce the risk of spills or injuries. Equipment may be skid, open trailer, or enclosed trailer mounted. www.sageoilvacwind.com

Solar Nick Figone (415) 981-2811 nfigone@ene.com

PERMITTING E & E can prepare all required federal environmental impact statements, state-equivalent impact assessments, and local use permits.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT E & E can assist in identifying stakeholders and engaging them early on to obtain consensus on the project.

Biomass/Waste-to-Energy Robert Santa Maria (716) 684-8060 rsantamaria@ene.com Hydroelectric Frank Groznik (503) 248-5600 fgroznik@ene.com Energy Efficiency Mark Casell, LEED-AP, CEM (716) 684-8060 mcasell@ene.com Transmission Jim Thornton (503) 248-5600 Jthornton@ene.com

ecology and environment, inc.

Celebrating 40 Years of Green Solutions www.ene.com

North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide PROJECT DEVELOPER / OPERATOR

Gravitec Systems, Inc.

Volkswind USA Inc.

OwnEnergy, Inc. OwnEnergy partners with landowners to develop renewable energy projects with an initial focus on 10 MW to 80 MW wind energy projects. Their partners take an active role in the development and installation process, and in return they are provided with a signiďŹ cant ownership stake in the resulting renewable energy project. www.ownenergy.net

Established in 1993, Volkswind has become a prominent Independent Power Producers (IPP) in Europe, recently entering the North American market. Its core business relies on planning, developing, constructing, and operating wind farms. Volkswind has built over 60 wind farms with wind turbines from many of the top companies in the industry. A further 4.000 MW are under development. The market offers an enormous potential for wind energy and has become one of Volkswindâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core markets. www.volkswind.us

Since 1986, Gravitec has been protecting workers at heights worldwide by providing a full range of high-quality fall protection and rescue services including training, engineering, testing, and equipment sales. Their engineering team provides innovative solutions to address the most challenging fall hazards and their fall protection specialists match customers with the training and equipment needed to get the job done safely. They also provide costeffective third-party testing services with minimal turnaround time, as well as ďŹ eld testing for existing fall arrest systems. www.gravitec.com

SAFETY Nebraska Department of Economic Development

Hi-Line Utility Supply Co.

Nebraskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Renewable Energy Advantages Nebraskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abundant, untapped energy can help spearhead the US in the effort to â&#x20AC;&#x153;go greenâ&#x20AC;? and reduce dependence on nonrenewable energy sources. A Nebraska location provides companies with fast, efďŹ cient access to states with the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest potential for wind energy development. Nebraska ranks sixth by AWEA among the top 10 states for potential wind energy resources, which are located in the Midwest. Nebraska provides easy, readily available access to major wind energy sites, as well as to wind energy equipment manufacturers supplying the industry. Many of these businesses are selecting Midwest locations to better serve wind energy markets across the country. www.nebraskaadvantage.biz

Pigeon Mountain Industries (PMI) The heightec-PMI ScaffPack is a compact, self-contained rescue system, which allows the subject to be recovered by a single rescuer. Once the casualty has been connected, he or she can be raised or lowered by one person into a safe place. A wide casualty attachment hook can be fastened to various points of a subjectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harness for simplicity and ease-of-operation. The whole system is failsafe in operation, and will lock if operated in panic. Using the Quadra lowering device allows rope to be given out when not under load, but will lock if subjected to a sudden impact or fall. When the Quadra handle is released, the device will lock, allowing the rescuer to attend to other issues. www.pmirope.com

With over 10,000 products in stock, Hi-Line Utility Supply has delivered transmission and distribution tools, rubber goods, and safety equipment for contractors, utilities, and linemen since 1960. Hi-Line specializes in safety equipment from rubber goods to fall protection. Hi-Lineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NAIL certiďŹ ed test lab will him ensure all rubber gloves, sleeves, blankets, and linehose remain safe for workers. The tool repair house services any unsafe tools, ďŹ berglass, hotarms, or ground sets that should not be on the jobsite. www.hilineco.com

Tractel Ltd. The evolution in emergency evacuation and rescue continues as Tractel Ltd. introduces its second generation Derope emergency rescue/controlled descent device. After years of being one of the most popular and easy to use rescue device in the industry, Tractel Ltd. went to work making it better. With an increased descent speed and twin exit hubs designed into the casing, the Derope descent device is not only more efďŹ cient, but more durable as well. Additional new features include: dual descent control pig tails, external cooling ďŹ ns, integrated rope locking cleat, and completely sealed brake housing. With optional features that include a crank handle for raising and lowering, and a ladder and tripod bracket, the Derope descent device truly is the most versatile rescue unit on the market. www.tractel.com

SMALL WIND TURBINES Mfg (Under 100 kW)

AZZ Galvanizing Services

RescueTECH Capital Safety

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Capital Safety, home of the DBI-SALA and PROTECTA brands of fall protection equipment, offers the Railok 90 vertical rail system for ladder and structure climbing applications. Railok 90 provides optimal protection from falls while maximizing freedom of movement. The shuttle travels smoothly along the entire length of the rail allowing the user to move up and down the ladder, and will not snag or resist the climberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s motion. In the event of a fall the shuttle locks on the rail, arresting the fall while minimizing fall distances and load forces on the user. Railok 90 can be deployed across multiple industries including wind energy, telecommunications, oil and gas, construction, and more. www.capitalsafety.com

nacleanenergy.com

Since 1982, RescueTECH has designed, manufactured, and distributed the largest selection of technical rescue equipment in the world. They have the equipment rescuers need for ďŹ re and rescue, high-angle, conďŹ ned space, industrial safety, rope access, ice rescue, and water rescue. Their extensive product line, superior quality, excellent customer support, and competitive prices have made them the rescue company of choice for ďŹ re/rescue and industrial distributors worldwide. www.rescuetech1.com

AZZ Galvanizing Services, a division of AZZ, Inc. is the largest steel galvanizer in the US, owning and operating 33 hot-dip galvanizing plants strategically located nationwide. AZZ operates kettles ranging from 25â&#x20AC;&#x2122; to 62â&#x20AC;&#x2122; in length. With the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s network of plants, it is able to accommodate the largest projects with customized turnaround time at a competitive price. â&#x20AC;&#x153;GalvXtra,â&#x20AC;? its unique nickel-zinc alloy process, helps meet the highest quality standards that are necessary in the vastly competitive after-fabrication steel market. www.azzgalv.com

Eocycle Technologies Inc. Aerostar, Inc. Aerostar, Inc. is an established US manufacturer of quality wind turbine systems. Aerostar’s Freedom 10kW and Independence 32kW turbines are simple, rugged, and efﬁcient, particularly at low wind speeds. The induction generator interfaces directly with the utility grid. There is no complicated and expensive inverter. The turbines incorporate the latest technology, efﬁcient structural design, and use of high-quality materials. Each system includes an Aerostar exclusive color touch screen display, which monitors and records all performance data and can be web connected for remote viewing. www.aerostarwind.com

Eocycle is a manufacturer of permanent magnet generators and small wind turbines. With the EO-25/12 25 kW direct-drive wind turbine, utility customers can avoid exposure to ever-increasing electricity rates with a safe and effective product. Designed to withstand wind gusts as high as 214 KM/H (133 MPH) and totally compliant to power utilities interconnection requirements, the EO-25/12 offers superior energy production, quiet operation, minimal maintenance, and durability. www.eocycle.com

Gaia-Wind Ltd. Gaia-Wind manufactures wind turbines for light industrial, agricultural, commercial, municipal, and residential use. Clients include working farms, educational institutions, large home owners, ofﬁces, and other commercial premises. Gaia-Wind turbines, with 20+ years of Danish wind industry experience, offer features that are usually only found in larger, utility scale turbines. They include: direct, inverter-less grid connection with an asynchronous induction generator; redundant safety systems that stops the rotor in excessive wind conditions; quiet and efﬁcient operation through low, constant rotor speed; advanced controller to monitor/manage turbine operation, performance, safety, and power quality; oversized rotor design, which allows the turbine to capture up to 80% more wind energy than other similarly rated equipment, enhancing project economics and maximizing the return on investment; and, optimum performance in low to moderate wind speed regimes (10mpg to 12mph) due to the large rotor. www.gaia-wind.com

Her grandparents got their energy from coal. Her parents get their energy from natural gas. Where will she get her energy from? The answer may very well come from Iowa. We’re leading the race to become the renewable energy capital of the nation, with our rich agricultural heritage and legacy of manufacturing excellence. Combine that with Iowa having the lowest cost of doing business in the United States* and it’s no wonder more alternative energy firms are moving here. See more of how Iowa’s economy is changing lives

Polaris America LLC Seizing the need for a community sized wind turbine, from 20kW to 1 MW, Polaris is supplying a whole class of innovative wind turbine that feature exclusive PM/directdrive technologies and superior engineering. Polaris addresses the needs of home owners, farms, businesses, schools and universities, governmental institutions, and other applications Polaris’ turbines are designed to meet the IEC 16400 -2 and 1 standards. However, they are also participating in the new SWCC certiﬁcation program that will certify turbines, up to 50kW, against the new AWEA Small Wind Turbine Performance and Safety Standard currently. www.polarisamerica.com

and renewable energy at iowalifechanging.com.

*CNBC “Top States for Doing Business,” July, 2009.

iowalifechanging.com

LEADING THE WAY IN RENEWABLE ENERGY, BIOSCIENCES, ADVANCED MANUFACTURING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY. North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide STORAGE

SEaB Energy The WindBuster is a small vertical-axis wind turbine for use on sites with changeable wind direction. No need to re-orientate the WindBuster, the vertical blades collect the maximum power from all wind directions and are very quiet compared to horizontal (propeller-type) wind turbines. www.seabenergy.com

TALCO Electronics TALCO Electronics is the only wholesale distributor that specializes in small and medium wind systems. They offer dealer tools, training, support, and service. They offer turnkey wind turbine systems ranging from 200 to 50,000 watts. TALCO Electronics is a North American wholesale distributor that cares about their dealers and develops a personal relationship with each one. They help dealers with mentored installations, sales tools, ﬁnancial, and wind analytics, which allow them to close more sales and perform quality installations. www.talcoelectronics.com

Vbine Vbine energy has developed the world’s ﬁrst direct-drive vertical axis wind turbine. Vbine’s turbine uses patented technology to deliver 5kw of power while providing unmatched durability and performance in lower wind applications. With a patented blade design that truly starts on its own with just a breeze and still draws the maximum horsepower from the wind, Vbine has built a 5kw generator with unmatched durability and low maintenance. Ideally suited for applications that require the utmost safety, Vbine’s low tip speed and stealth quite operation make it a perfect choice for urban settings with either a grid-tie application or battery charge controller for remote installations. The direct drive technology and low rotation speed lends itself perfectly to inline installations on communication towers, which is a ﬁrst for the industry. www.vbine.com

ClearSpan Fabric Structures International, Inc. Low in cost and easy to relocate, ClearSpan Fabric Structures are an ideal solution for equipment, vehicle, and other storage needs. Discover a cost-effective building with a spacious interior, which needs no artiﬁcial lighting during the day. With minimal foundation requirements, the structures can be permanent or temporary, and are easy to relocate. ClearSpan structures are also virtually maintenance-free as dust and dirt wash off easily with water and no painting is required. Made in the US, these structures can be built to any size. www.clearspan.com

TESTING / INSPECTION

SOFTWARE SUPPLIER

Otech Engineering, Inc. Otech Engineering, Inc. is an ISO/ IEC 17025:2005 accredited laboratory providing anemometer test and calibration services using controlled wind tunnel facilities. Otech is accredited for calibration test speeds of up to 45m/s with best uncertainty of 0.475%. For 29 years, Otech has been a major contributor in the wind energy industry performing over 100,000 anemometer calibrations while maintaining the highest test quality and fast turnaround. Most instruments tested at Otech, such as cup anemometers, propeller anemometers, and sonic sensors, are deployed for measuring atmospheric winds. With expert and customized service, Otech continues to develop and maintain long-standing client relationships. www.otechwind.com

True North Power NG Inc. True North Power NG Inc., is a small wind and solar hybrid systems integrator, including: for under 10kw remote or distributed energy systems, portable or ﬁxed installations; as well as towers, trackers, and unique non-furling turbines 1kW. www.truenorthpower.com

FORCE Technology

STATE OF

EMD International A/S

U.S.A.

Power-up, future. Ranked first in Patents Per Capita,* Idaho’s commitment to innovation carries a positive source of energy all its own. Find out

how low-cost, renewable energy is going from untapped... to off the map.

WindPRO is the world’s most widely used software package for planning and design of wind farm projects. More than 1500 companies and institutions worldwide are using WindPRO. WindPRO includes more than two decades of research and experience in design, planning, and documentation of wind farm projects worldwide. The calculation results and documentation from WindPRO are recognized and accepted by investors, banks, planning authorities, and research institutions. www.emd.dk

renewable.idaho.gov.

The generation of regeneration is *Forbes.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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FORCE Technology is launching a unique solution for safe, reliable on-site NDT blade inspections, applying a novel blade guided working platform FF360, in collaboration with PP Techniq. The integrated system is approved and ready for contract assignments in 2011. The concept provides unique features for qualified on-site maintenance and inspection work on rotor blades, without bringing blades to the ground. A wind farm blade population is efficiently maintained without applying costly cranes. The smart blade guided platform is easily transported to the site with a mobile trailer and is easy to install, elevate, and log onto the blade. FORCE Technology applies a unique P-scan device AMS-47, developed specifically for automated inspection from the blade guided working platform. Professional condition mapping of blades during operating lifetime becomes feasible, even under harsh weather conditions, without demounting blades from the wind turbine. The technology will be applied for on-shore and off-shore wind farm installations. www.forcetechnology.com

SGS Renewables To assist in assessing wind energy project investments and assure the quality of wind farms, SGS works as an independent global service provider carrying out consultancy, inspection, testing, supervision, monitoring, management, verification, and certification services for both onshore and offshore wind farm projects. For each phase of a wind farm project, SGS Renewable Energy offers a wide range of services ensuring the wind farm will perform successfully throughout the intended lifetime. Their services include, but are not limited to, wind farm project certification, inservice inspection, manufacturing inspection, technical due diligence, and regulatory compliance. www.sgs.com

Availon Inc. SSB Service is now Availon. Their customer-centric approach continues to increase the availability of wind turbines through the highest-quality independent parts and service. Availon offers ﬁeld service, operations and maintenance, inspections, high-tech upgrade solutions, spare parts supply and management, individual turbine optimization, and remote monitoring. www.availon.com

Stork Herron Testing Laboratories, Inc.

TÜV SÜD America

With 100 years in business, Stork Herron Testing Laboratories, Inc. has the following accreditations: A2LA (ISO 17025), Nadcap, Nupic, Niac, TUV, GE S400, IAS, and Transport Canada. Services include: chemical analysis, mechanical testing, metallurgical analysis, failure analysis, product evaluation, nondestructive testing, full machine shop, consulting services. They serve the wind power, automotive, fastener, commercial, industrial, power generation, nuclear industries, and more. www.storksmt.com

TÜV SÜD America’s Industry Service division offers a variety of global conformity assessment services that help ensure a product’s acceptance and success in the global marketplace. Industry Service’s full suite of services includes wind energy services engineering, construction and repair services for the power and process industries, greenhouse gas services, consulting, third-party inspection, as well as testing and certification. The Industry Service division also provides Notified Body services through its parent organization TÜV SÜD Group, a Notified Body for the PED and TPED, and other EU Directives. www.tuvamerica.com

Gearbox Lube System Filter Extension Kit

Air Cooled Lubrication System with Motor / Pump Filtration System.

Herguth Laboratories Herguth Laboratories is an ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 17025 quality supplier of analytical services with proven competencies in analyzing oil (with emphasis in wind turbine gearboxes, fuel, and grease, as well as tribological and special investigations). Quality programs include: 10CFR50 Part 21 Appendix B, Radioactive Licensed, PhD Research Associates, CLS, OMA I, and II Certiﬁed. Services provide needed information for continuous use and/or extended oil drain intervals. With extended oil drain intervals in machinery, vehicles, and equipment, Herguth Labs is providing clients what information they need to think green and help the environment, along with time and cost savings. Data is accessible via internet. Herguth also offers training courses to enhance knowledge of predictive and preventative maintenance. Customized training is also available. Herguth is courier accessible from anywhere in the world. www.herguth.com

Twist Flow / RF3 Water Fitration System

360˚ of Electronic and Diagnostic Technology

Coolers and Cooling Systems

HYDAC products and solutions can be found in thousands of clean energy systems worldwide. From complete systems, including cooling systems for gear boxes and generators, to ﬁltration and diagnostic concepts for lubrication and hydraulics, the answer is HYDAC.

s Complete Package Solutions s Global Presence s Local Competence

Accumulators

We’ve got you covered. Clamp Solutions

Megger Believed to be the first commercially available products of their type specifically designed for wind turbine applications, the Megger KC-series of test leads eliminate the need for users to fabricate their own test leads or to resort to makeshift arrangements that may deliver uncertain results. KC-series wind turbine test leads are available 100m versions, and are equally suitable for use on site or in the manufacturing plant. For convenience and ease of handling, they are supplied as standard on a heavy duty cable reel that is fitted with a friction brake to avoid tangles. KC-series leads are suited for use with Megger DLRO10HD low-resistance digital ohmmeters, which combine robust construction with high-test current capability, making them an excellent choice for wind turbine applications. www.megger.com

Gearbox Generator Inverter Cooling: Water Pump / Control Package

HYD1009-1291

North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide TRANSMISSION

MacLean Power Systems Privately held MacLean Power Systems (MPS) offers manufacturing of T&D materials for the electric utility industry. MPS’ products include automatic and bolted connectors, silicone rubber non-ceramic insulators from 15kV to 765kV, lightning arresters, anchors, ferrous and aluminum hardware, hardware assemblies, ﬁberglass products for overhead line construction, a full line of pole line hardware, specialty steel fabrications, fuse cutouts, and grounding equipment and tools. With almost 10,000 different line items, MPS offers the broadest and deepest array of utility products available from a single manufacturer. www.macleanpower.com

NRG Systems Since 1982, NRG Systems has made products to help customers measure and understand the wind. While some companies serve multiple industries in the wind measurement ﬁeld, NRG Systems has always served the wind energy industry exclusively. Today, their products can be found on every continent, in more than 135 countries, serving electric utilities, wind farm developers, research institutes, government agencies, and universities. For them, it is a commitment to developing the best technology, improving the world, and protecting the environment. Wind is changing the way power is produced, and NRG Systems is there. www.nrgsystems.com

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS

Alstom Grid Alstom Grid offers solutions for the internal electrical distribution and grid connection of all types of power plant and renewable energies. Offerings include turnkey HV exit substations, MV substations, generator circuit breakers, power and distribution transformers, LV panels, Motor Control Centers, protection, and automation systems. They provide turnkey grid connection for wind farms including reactive compensation systems, MV transformers and compact switchgear that ﬁts inside the wind turbine. With their broad product range, in-depth engineering expertise, and worldwide presence, Alstom Grid supports projects wherever they are. www.grid.alstom.com

Henkels & McCoy, Inc. Henkels & McCoy’s wind power construction professionals offer the highest standards of workmanship, professionalism, safety consciousness, and customer focus. They have the ability to successfully integrate project management into the most complex work scopes as participants in numerous multi-million dollar projects. Henkels & McCoy has been constructing power projects for over 80 years for the same utility clients connected with your wind farm. They also have underground collector system expertise from years of installing cross-country ﬁber backbones. Installing transmission lines, substations, 34.5 kV power, and ﬁber optic cable splicing and testing are all work scopes performed day in and day out. Their focus on safety, quality, and accountability is unwavering, customer to customer, task to task. www.henkels.com

Logistec Stevedoring Inc. Bismarck-Mandan Development Association Bismarck-Mandan, North Dakota is at the center of the North American wind energy corridor as North Dakota and the surrounding region rank first in wind energy potential by the US Department of Energy. Located in the center of the North American continent with road, rail, and air transportation in all directions, Bismarck-Mandan is an ideal location for wind energy manufacturing and assembly facilities. The Northern Plains Commerce Centre is a 243-acre, BNSF Premier Transloading Facility located in Bismarck, allowing companies to improve their ability to efficiently distribute wind energy components throughout the world. A wide variety of financial, tax, and workforce incentives are available to assist qualifying component manufacturers in locating their businesses in Bismarck-Mandan. www.bmda.org

Logistec has over five decades of experience in cargo-handling services through a strong network of strategically located terminals in the US. Logistec has been present since the wind energy sector’s explosive growth, working hand-in-hand with the world’s largest wind turbine manufacturers, logistics experts, and key transportation stakeholders, offering efficient, cost-effective, and safe cargo-handling services. Logistec provides customized solutions to the wind energy sector’s unique logistics requirements through their vast expertise, strong market knowledge, and highly skilled and adaptable workforce. Whether it’s unloading or loading ships or barges, loading and securing complex components to truck or rail, or providing assistance in determining the most competitive and efficient cargo terminal in which to handle cargo, they handle cargo in the safest and most productive manner possible. www.logistec.com

Union Pacific Railroad Union Pacific Railroad, one of the largest railroads in North America, in conjunction with Union Pacific Distribution Services (UPDS) specializes in providing rail-based logistics solutions for the wind and solar industries. They offer customers a total logistics solution with shipment visibility to support efficient supply chains. www.up.com/wind

Sabre Tubular Structures Sabre Tubular Structures designs and manufactures tubular steel structures used in power delivery. www.sabretubularstructures.com

TESTING / INSPECTION Equipment Express Equipment Express specializes in transportation and logistics, with hauling capabilities to 565 metric tons and crane capacity up to 850 tons. www.equipmentexpress.com

Burke E Porter Machinery Burke E Porter Machinery offers utility sized wind turbine gearboxes and/or generator test stand dynamometer systems. R&D, certiﬁcation, and/or 100% production validation applications. www.bepco.com

FWT, LLC FWT designs and manufactures transmission and distribution poles, lattice structures, substation structures, wood pole equivalents, and the patented PowerMount (cell on utility) antenna mount. www.fwtinc.com EquipmentExpress.indd 1

9/4/08 10:36:15 AM

IMCORP IMCORP provides collector cable system reliability consulting and diagnostics. IMCORP offers commissioning and assessment services using an exclusive and patented off-line 50/60Hz partial discharge test that provides a foot-by-foot proﬁle of cable systems, which is comparable to manufacturers’ standards and offers the means for collector system owners to assure cable system reliability at the lowest cost. www.imcorptech.com 82

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WindLogics

WIND ASSESSMENT / FORECASTING

Meteodyn

3TIER 3TIER offers renewable energy assessment and forecasting for wind, solar, and hydro projects. Trusted by top developers, operators, and ﬁnanciers around the world, they help maximize the value of renewable resources while mitigating the risks of their inherent variability. 3TIER uses sophisticated computer modeling systems, in-house expertise, and reliable delivery mechanisms to forecast both the short-term intermittency and the long-term availability of renewable energy. Their techniques are scientiﬁcally based and supported by the global science and research community. Through their methodology, they create advanced datasets that no one else in the industry offers. www.3tier.com

Meteodyn is a worldwide consulting and engineering company dedicated to wind energy assessment for wind farm and small wind projects in urban area. Meteodyn is a French company with two subsidiaries, one in China and one in the US. Their wind energy experts develop user-friendly automatic software based on CFD technology: MeteodynWT for wind resource assessment from plain to complex terrains, and UrbaWind Small Wind for wind energy production assessment in urban and industrial areas. MeteodynWT is distributed all over the world. They also carry out studies: wind energy potential, wind power potential maps (Atlas), wind forecasting, on-site wind and turbulence characterization, and all studies involving wind parameters. www.meteodyn.com

WindLogics combines deep operating expertise with leading scientiﬁc analysis to help meet the most demanding requirements for project planning, development, and operation. As an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of NextEra Energy, the largest generator of wind and solar energy in North America, WindLogics helps customers exceed stakeholder expectations over the entire life of their renewable power initiatives. www.windlogics.com

OTHER Adhesives, Sealants & Surface Treatment Solutions Henkel Corporation Offering adhesives, sealants, and surface treatment products, Henkel is committed to providing cost-saving solutions and improving reliability in the wind energy industry. Strong customer focus, excellent quality, innovation, and sustainable business practices are key to success. Henkel products include high-performance UV/ weather resistant sealants, adhesives and threadlockers, and mold release agents. Henkel products and services help streamline manufacturing processes, increase productivity, lower costs, and improve eco-performance. www.henkelna.com/windpower

OTHER Aerial Surveys

DAS, Inc. DAS provides aerial mapping and land surveying. Topographic mapping is a critical step in the design of a project. Accurate location of planimetric features (roads, house, fences, etc.) saves time and money by allowing the developer to determine an intelligent turbine layout. Accurate contours are critical in determining turbine placement, sub-station location, and drainage plans for access roads. Topographic information allows wind engineers to ﬁnd the greatest potential output for a project, and construction engineers to clarify potential costs. www.dasmaps.com

PP Systems

Campbell Scientific Campbell Scientific has been manufacturing measurement and control dataloggers for over 35 years, including the CR800, CR1000, and CR3000. These dataloggers are ideal for wind-energy prospecting and provide reliable monitoring for a large variety of wind applications. Sustainable energy researchers choose Campbell Scientific dataloggers because of their wide range of sensor compatibility, reliability, and multiple communication options, including custom API for data collection. The dataloggers can be programmed to record data for pre-installation research, and for monitoring turbine power and performance. They offer rugged design, low power consumption, and versatility. The newest version of datalogger software, LoggerNet 4, shines in applications that require telecommunications or scheduled data retrieval in large datalogger networks. Campbell Scientific has renewable-energy experts ready to help with wind-resource applications. www.campbellsci.com/wind-energy

PP Systems is the distributor for Gill Instruments ultrasonic anemometers in the US. The rugged construction with no moving parts eliminates the need for routine maintenance making Gill ultrasonic wind speed measurement sensors ideal for operation in all environmental conditions. From initial turbine site assessment to use of instruments for turbine control, customers can choose from a range of 2-axis and/or 3-axis anemometers. Heating and analog output options are also available. www.ppsystems.com/gill.htm

Sabre Site Solutions Sabre Site Solutions offers a full line of preengineered lightweight towers perfect for wind assessment. www.sabresitesolutions.com

WeatherNation Smart Energy WindVision forecasting service, from WeatherNation Smart Energy, provides a complete weather solution to renewable industry challenges. WindVision provides reliable forecasts of wind speed, plant output, ramp events, safety alerting, as well as precise maintenance window outlooks. WindVision power forecasts range from minutes to days, even up to one year. Look to WindVision to: reduce imbalance charges; minimize incremental reserve costs; facilitate plant dispatch scheduling; inform spot-market trading; increase capacity payments; and, optimize plant maintenance. WeatherNation Smart Energy’s WindVision is a total weather package. www.weathernation.net North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide OTHER Anchor Bolts, Foundations Systems & Fasteners

OTHER Communications

The Dyson Corporation

Moxa, Inc.

The Dyson Corporation is a domestic manufacturer of large specialty fasteners and forgings, and is one of the nation’s largest suppliers of anchor bolts and foundation systems for the wind industry. Dyson also manufacturers tower bolts, hex nuts, and blade studs. www.dysoncorp.com

Minimize costs with Chain Topology and Triple Fiber Port Ethernet Switches—restrictive network topologies impose costly requirements on widely distributed networks. Network builders are on the lookout for solutions that simplify network connections and reduce wiring costs all while maintaining a reliable redundant network. This can easily be achieved by utilizing Moxa’s new Turbo Chain technology, along with Moxa’s award winning industrial switches. www.moxa.com/industrial_ethernet/ energy_wind.htm

OTHER Blade Engineering & Repair Training

OTHER Construction Stafﬁng Abaris Training Resources, Inc. Abaris Training has been in business since 1983, providing repair training for mostly the aerospace industry. The company now offers these same engineering and repair training courses to those in the wind energy industry. www.abaris.com

OTHER Bolting Tools & Expertise

OTHER Control Buildings

OTHER Energy Storage

Energy Storage & Power

Trachte, Inc. Trachte pre-assembled control buildings are available in custom sizes and configurations, shipped pre-erected with wall and ceiling mounted electrical gear and cable trays pre-installed, with or without a structural steel floor. Trachte’s detailed design and drawing support, and factory pre-assembly, provide clients with tremendous project management efficiencies and a consistent, exceptional level of quality. The Trachte family has 90 years of experience with buildings, shelters, and pre-fabricated structures. www.trachteusa.com

By capturing energy, we’re freeing the planet. Energy Storage & Power’s innovative CAES Technology (Compressed Air Energy Storage) stores the energy of the sun and wind on a practical scale, optimizing and ﬁrming intermittent renewable energy resources and contributing to the smart grid revolution. www.caespower.com

OTHER Engineering & Project Management Services

CLP Resources, Inc.

Titan Technologies International, Inc. Titan Technologies manufactures and distributes hydraulic torque wrenches, hydraulic wrench pumps and accessories, electric torque wrenches and hydraulic bolt tensioning systems. Titan has worldwide distribution and offers full service and calibration throughout the domestic wind corridor. Titan offers a one-stop shop for all bolting needs. www.titanti.com

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At CLP, they work with some of the nation’s largest developers of wind, solar, and geothermal energy. They know a renewable energy project relies on having a qualified, experienced field workforce—often in remote locations. CLP has specialized industry knowledge in: recruiting specialized trades people with experience on renewable energy projects; deploying a traveling workforce, locally or to the most remote locations; phasing a project workforce to eliminate delays and keep every project on track; and, responding quickly to each customer’s needs. Rely on CLP to deliver the specialized renewable energy workforce required, when and where they are needed. www.clp.com/RenewableEnergy-Staffing-Solutions

OTHER Cutting Tool Manufacturer J P Kenny

Sandvik Coromant Sandvik Coromant introduces a precision cutter for gear milling. The Sandvik Coromant CoroMill 170 can optimize milling applications for gears in modules 12 to 22. Using insert grades GC 1030 and GC 4240, the CoroMill 170 can minimize machining times and the need for subsequent operations. Available in diameters from 8.27" to 19.69", the CoroMill 170’s shape was designed in accordance with DIN 867 and DIN 3972-4, and provides maximum impact on applications requiring precision and reliability in roughing operations such as slewing rings for windmills and planetary gears. www.coromant.sandvik.com/us

J P Kenny Offshore Renewables group provides engineering and project management services to the offshore wind, wave, and tidal markets throughout the world. The group has access to 1,600 engineers across ofﬁces worldwide and provides an integrated technology based service delivery from all locations. The application of over 30 years experience and innovation within the offshore oil and gas sector enable them to transfer key knowledge and skills across all of their business areas. They offer capabilities in all aspects of a marine renewables project life-cycle, from the earliest conceptual studies, through the optimization of the architecture, detailed design, and operations and maintenance to ensure delivery of a fully integrated project. www.jpkenny.com

OTHER Equipment Sales / Distributor

OTHER Gearbox Service & Repair

ZF Services Services Techniques Claude Drouin inc. Services Techniques Claude Drouin inc. is a distributor of quality products that meet and even exceed performance expectation, ensuring product reliability at an interesting price for all alignment, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair needs for products and plant installation. Since 1981, they are specialized in problem solving using and selling technologies such as laser alignment, ultrasonic measurement, vibration, and condition monitoring. They have the most experience in laser alignment, and offer to clients the best alignment solution for their speciﬁc needs. Their different services are: laser alignment, rollers alignment, straightness alignment, extruder alignment, pulley alignment, vertical turbine shaft alignment, ﬂatness and leveling, vibration analysis and dynamic balancing, and compressed air leaks. www.stcd.ca

ZF offers complete overhaul and repair on all types and all models of wind turbine gearboxes through 3.0 MW. Gearbox repairs can include updating units to the latest design standards, upgrading lubrication systems, re-proﬁling gear teeth for optimum efﬁciency, or engineering upgrades to eliminate repetitive failures. As well as gearbox repairs, ZF offers a full range of up-tower services. These include end-of-warranty validation of gearboxes, vibration data analysis, and endoscopic gearbox inspections. If possible, ZF will also conduct minor repairs to the gearbox while in the nacelle. www.zf.com/na

OTHER Geotechnical Specialist Contracting

OTHER Hand Tools for Connectivity

OTHER Hydraulic Equipment, Tools, Calibration & Measurement

Ripley

Transcat

Ripley, a manufacturer of wire and cable preparation tools and related accessories, serves many industries. Cablematic offers quality cable preparation tools for the CATV, telecommunications, and wireless industries. Miller offers wire cutters, hand and thermal strippers, and slitters for all types of small wire, cable, and the smallest ﬁber optic cable, as well as manual and hand wrapping and unwrapping tools. Utility Tool manufactures cable preparation tools to splice and terminate cable for the transmission and distribution industry and electrical construction and maintenance. Ripley’s tools are of the highest quality, designed with safety and productivity in mind. Ripley’s worldwide distribution network insures local availability and their sales and customer service staff is always available to provide support. www.ripley-tools.com

OTHER Hybrid Power Systems

OTHER Foundation Pile Supplier Geo-Foundations Contractors Incorporated

MacLean-Dixie MacLean-Dixie Helical Foundations feature a complete line of costeffective steel earth foundation products for commercial, residential, and marine applications. MacLeanDixie provides products for remediation and new construction projects including end-bearing deep foundations, helical screw tension anchors, and helical tieback systems. MacLean-Dixie Strength Squared square engagement cast coupling system provides higher strength, lower cost foundation system that forms perfect male-to-female ﬁt on all of its foundation systems. MacLean Dixie is a business unit of MacLean Power Systems and includes the Joslyn and Dixie brands, which have supplied anchoring systems since the 1920s. www.macleanddixie.com

Geo-Foundations Contractors Inc. is a provider of design-build geotechnical specialist contracting including drilled pile and rock anchor construction services for wind turbine foundation construction. They are a turnkey service provider performing— entirely with their own forces—all rock anchor-related services including drilling, hydraulic conductivity testing, rock mass consolidation grouting, installation, grouting, and post-tensioning. Their large ﬂeet of drill rigs and specialty post-tensioning jacks and apparatus enables their crews to achieve the high rates of production necessary to support fast-tracked turbine base construction schedules. Their mobile teams of operators, laborers, and technicians perform work coast to coast in Canada www.geo-foundations.com

Transcat is a supplier of industrial tools, hydraulic torque equipment, and test and measurement instruments. In addition, they offer customized wind turbine tool kits with the distinct advantage of having the appropriate items in the kit calibrated and ready for in-ﬁeld use straight from the box. Couple their product offering with their accredited calibration and repair services, and Transcat’s customers are equipped to make fact-based tool decisions to reduce costs and improve overall safety. www.transcat.com/windenergy

OTHER Lightning Protection / Lightning Monitoring

ERICO The LEC-IVR Lightning Event Counter, part of the ERITECH line of Facility Electrical Protection products from ERICO, registers and records the number of strikes handled by a lightning downconductor, Based on the proven LEC-IV technology, the LEC-IVR features an output that allows for remote monitoring of lightning strikes to wind turbine blades and nacelles. The lightning event counter features an interconnecting cable, which requires no special termination tools. It also uses simple push and screw-in terminals to simplify installation. www.erico.com

Sustainable Automation, Inc. Sustainable Automation, Inc. is an integrator of renewable energy based hybrid power systems for off-grid communities and industrial sites. They are experts in high-penetration wind-diesel and solardiesel hybrids for loads ranging from 50 kW to 5 MW. Their systems can achieve 50% to 80% reduction in fuel consumption relative to diesel-only systems. www.sustainableatomation.com

NICE CLIMATE. PERFECTLY PACKAGED. When your packaged electronics application demands the best environmental protection possible, STEGO can help you with a wide range of innovative Thermal Management Products as well as other Enclosure Accessories, designed to exceed your requirements.

• Enclosure Heaters • Climate Controls • Filter Fans • Lights • Enclosure Accessories

www.stegousa.com 1-888-783-4611 tel 770-984-0858 fax 770-984-0615

North American Clean Energy

2011 wind buyers guide OTHER Lubricants

OTHER Rotor Speed , Yaw Position & Blade Pitch Sensors

OTHER Test Equipment: Power system simulator

RTDS Technologies Inc. Mobil Industrial Lubricants Currently used in more than 25,000 wind turbines worldwide, Mobilgear SHC XMP 320 is a high-performance synthetic gearbox oil that delivers exceptional oxidation resistance, a naturally high-viscosity index and excellent low-temperature ﬂuidity, helping to extend lubricant life and equipment reliability. In addition, Mobilgear SHC XMP 320 contains a proprietary additive system designed to provide excellent protection against conventional wear modes like scufﬁng and micropitting. This performance attribute can help lead to less wear on critical parts and translates into valuable cost savings. www.mobilindustrial.com

OTHER Personal Solutions PHX Services PHX Services is a supplier of personnel solutions to the international energy and environmental industries. They have the insight, resources, and knowledge to find the right personnel for the wind energy industry. The demand for qualified technicians to work in the wind energy market is in high demand. Finding qualified personnel to fit a company’s requirements is PHX Services primary focus. Their customers realize significant time and cost saving on their projects. PHX Service is committed to supplying high-quality personnel at a valued price to clients. They are customer focused and marketdriven in their approach to business. www.phxservices.com

Industrial Encoder Corporation Industrial Encoder Corporation, a North American manufacturer of optical and magnetic encoders, offers products that service a wide variety of industries including the wind turbine industry. Their encoders are used on wind turbines for rotor speed feedback, blade pitch measurement, and yaw sensing. Industrial Encoder Corporation is one of the few companies that specialize only in encoders. It is because of this that they can provide solutions to satisfy the most demanding application. Not only do they specialize in encoders, but they also have one of the widest ranges of encoders available on the market. Their products range from Incremental to Absolute, Single-Turn and Multi-Turn, as well as Solid shaft and Hollow Shaft. They are one of the pioneers of the Hollow Shaft Encoder. No one else offers a wider range of Hollow Shaft Encoders, with Shaft Bores range from 1/4” all the way up to 4”. www.globalencoder.ca

As the world looks to alternative energy sources for power, a method to verify these new technologies will interact correctly with the existing grid structure is necessary. The RTDS Simulator is a real-time power system simulator capable of testing control and protection systems. Models for this Simulator have been developed for various energy sources such as wind, solar, and fuel cell technologies. Protection and control devices can be modeled in software or physically connected to the Simulator for Hardware-In-TheLoop (HIL) testing. Even high-speed switching power electronics controllers can be tested in closed-loop conditions. IEC 61850 compliant devices, in addition to PMU’s and Wide Area protection and control schemes, can now be studied. With distributed generation becoming a viable alternative, it is of utmost importance that their controls function securely and reliably, even in the most extreme conditions. www.rtds.com

OTHER Tool Supplier

OTHER Turbine Design & Components and Grid Interconnection

American Superconductor American Superconductor (AMSC) offers a range of proven solutions for the renewable energy industry. AMSC’s Windtec provides licenses and customized designs for multi-megawatt wind turbines. Customers receive unlimited service and support, and can begin manufacturing wind turbines in as little as 12 months. AMSC Windtec is currently developing the SeaTitan wind turbine, designed to produce 10 MW or more of power per tower. Based on its PowerModule power converter, AMSC also provides wind turbine electrical systems and controls that enable reliable, high-performance wind turbine operation by managing power ﬂows, regulating voltage, monitoring system performance, controlling the pitch of blades, and the yaw of turbines to maximize efﬁciency. The company further provides D-VAR reactive power compensation systems, which help to stabilize voltage levels at more than 70 wind farms around the world to meet grid interconnection requirements. www.amsc.com

OTHER Visual Impact Mitigation Solutions

Stanley Proto

OTHER Terminal Operator & Stevedore

Ports America Ports America is the largest terminal operator and stevedore in the US, operating in more than 80 locations at 42 ports. Ports America has the expertise to manage the handling of all types of cargo. In a typical year, they handle more than 12.7 million TEU, 4.3 million vehicles, and 8.9 million tons of general cargo. They provide clients with a distinct competitive advantage, combining the ﬂexibility of global connection with the efﬁciency of local expertise. Their operations include bulk, breakbulk and project cargo facilities, intermodal facilities, and RoRo handling. www.portsamerica.com

The new Stanley Proto Torque Multiplier Display Wrench makes a torque multiplier even more useful by making it easier to measure applied torque. It does so by measuring torque directly at the fastener with an impressive accuracy of +/- 1%. The tool is placed between the multiplier and the fastener, ensuring that the proper ﬁnal torque is applied to the fastener. No calculations are needed. Instead, the tool displays the actual applied torque to the fastener. The Torque Multiplier Display Wrench is 24” long and has a one-inch drive. It’s available in two torque ranges: 100-1000 ft-lbs. and 200-2000 ft-lbs. www.stanleyproto.com

OTHER Transformer Oil Spill Containment

OCAS, Inc. OCAS provides a visual impact mitigation solution that reduces the visual impact of wind farms by keeping all wind farm lights off at all times—unless an aircraft is detected. This “on-demand” radar-based system is mounted on select turbines, and is approved by both FAA and Transport Canada. By reducing the visual impact of wind farms—especially at night—they can increase community acceptance and help with the overall responsible growth of the wind energy industry. www.ocasinc.com

OTHER Wind Blade & Nacelle Manufacturing Software / Equipment

Gerber Technology and Virtek Albarrie SorbWeb Plus secondary oil spill containment system designed to allow water to pass through, but fully contain oil. Performs in extreme weather and requires no maintenance. It is a great choice for remote locations like wind farms and solar farms. www.sorbwebplus.com 86

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Gerber Technology and Virtek provide automated material processing solutions for the wind energy market. With a focus on the material processing value chain, Gerber and Virtek offer specialized solutions for composite ply nesting and cutting, as well as laser-projected ply layup and templating. Wind energy ﬁrms rely on solutions from Gerber and Virtek in today’s growing industry. www.gerbertechnology.com | www.virtek.ca

AWEA

December 7â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9, 2010 Portland, OR

Power for the People! The AWEA Small and Community Wind Conference & Exhibition unites wind industry leaders with economic development groups, municipalities, and consumers eager to play a bigger role in the use and expansion of wind energy and its economic potential. The conference is designed to foster networking and encourage strategic thinking for the use of small wind technology and community-owned wind. www.smallandcommunitywindexpo.org

geothermal energy

EGS Cutaway Diagram

Making Room…Fractures are coming through! Enhanced geothermal systems By Craig Dunn

Enhanced or engineered geothermal systems (EGS), frac’ing or fracking programs, hydraulic shearing...call it what you want, but our ability to alter rock reservoirs has the power to change the geothermal energy industry. Conventional geothermal energy programs need three things to be successful: 1. Heat. Without this you don’t have a resource. 2. A transfer medium. Required to transfer the heat; this is usually water. 3. A rock environment. With enough porosity to move the heat through. In the simplest terms, if a geothermal energy developer can move enough water through hot, fractured, or porous rock, he or she can use that heat to power a turbine—and, therefore, has a potential power project. Seems simple enough, right? But, what if this incredible heat resource is trapped in solid rock? One can’t economically move heat out of a solid rock thousands of meters underground. So, should such a developer simply walk away from the potential project or work to improve the situation? The oil and gas industry had a similar problem with getting precious oil and gas resources out of tight formations. They knew these energy resources were in certain rock but, at first, couldn’t feasibly or economically recover it. However, there was a solution. Fluiddriven fractures could be formed at depth in the oilfield borehole and extended into targeted aquifer formations. Frac’ing or Fracking technology significantly increased the surface area to recover the petroleum resources, and is now commonly used by the oil and gas industry to access “unconventional” natural gas deposits trapped in shale, coalbed, and tight-sand formations. Add in the ability to drill horizontally within the right formation and the oil and gas industry exponentially improved petroleum recovery in that formation. Even for the geothermal industry, the cat is already out of the bag. Many geothermal energy developers have already begun to see the potential of similar technology. Projects in Soultz France, Cooper Basin, Australia, and Newberry in the US have all used pressured fluids to increase permeability and to increase heat recovery. In hard-rock and volcanic environments, manmade hydraulic fractures use internal fluid pressure to help open pre-existing weakness in the rock structure. The new fracture is, then, typically maintained by introducing a proppant (such as sand, ceramic, or particulates) into the injected fluid. Projects that were once left economically wanting now have the potential for increased profitability. And, those in the renewable energy industry understand that slight improvement could take a project into the realm of financial viability.

At the core, our planet is over 5,000°C, is approximately 6.3km thick, and continues to produce vast amounts of heat.

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This technology is not without its’ detractors, however. Environmental and community groups have brought some of the technology’s downfalls into the public spotlight. Fresh water contamination, induced seismicity, and the toxic nature of some fracking fluids are just some of the concerns. To continue to be part of a clean energy solution for our planet, the geothermal energy developers adopting this technology need to closely monitor and responsibly deal with any and all concerns, real or imagined. The industry needs to ensure that any individual fracking program does leave a “black eye” on the geothermal industry as a whole. At the core, our planet is over 5,000°C, is approximately 6.3km thick, and continues to produce vast amounts of heat. To put this in perspective: the heat stored in only the top three kilometers of the continental crust is equivalent to the energy consumed by mankind for some 100,000 years at the present rate. At a depth of 10km, the heat in the of the earth’s crust contains 50,000 times as much energy as found in all the world’s oil and gas reserves combined. In 2007, a US Department of Energy sponsored study, completed by independent experts led by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), concluded that geothermal energy could provide 100,000 MWe or more in 50 years by using advanced EGS (enhanced geothermal energy) technology. The problem is clearly not a lack of heat (we have billions of years of heat available), it is getting that heat out of the ground cost effectively. The more the industry can research and test this technology in geothermal applications, the more this technology can be implementing to improve the economics and decrease the project risks of geothermal energy development. Love it or hate it, fracking technology has the potential to forever change how the geothermal energy industry extracts its’ heat resource.

Geothermal connections G T TenarisHydril develops solutions to meet the needs of the ever-more demanding E&P envirronments with a comprehensive range of high-performance products, including connections ffor geothermal applications. As just one example, their Legacy Series includes tried and proven performers such as the best-selling SLX connection, which has provided years of rep lliable service in challenging drilling environments. TenarisHydril | www.tenaris.com T

Craig Dunn is a pioneer in geothermal energy exploration and development initiatives in Canada, with expertise in the industry’s efforts on developing hightemperature geothermal energy from untapped resources. Borealis Geopower www.borealisgeopower.com North American Clean Energy

geothermal energy

Enhanced Geothermal Clean energy’s Holy Grail By Tom Rand, P.Eng, PhD

veryone knows we mine the heat of the earth for clean energy. We use lowgrade heat found everywhere beneath our feet to heat and cool our buildings, and the high-grade stuff in hot aquifers to make electricity. That’s old news. There’s a new game in town, however, and one that holds considerable promise. The guys from Google are in on it. The Australians are drilling like mad for it. It’s the one clean energy that could bump coal off the podium. Tomorrow’s geo is called Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), and it’s based on the simple idea that high-temperature heat can be mined pretty much anywhere—if you only drill deep enough. In most of the world, the ground that’s six miles (10 km) beneath our feet is dry, but as hot as the hottest aquifer. That heat can be mined, brought to the surface, and used to generate electricity. The potential of geothermal energy once EGS is brought into commercial operation cannot be overstated—it is simply colossal. A recent study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) noted that the total geothermal energy available within six miles (10 km) of the surface is 130,000 times the entire US energy needs. Obviously, not all of it can be tapped, but even conservative estimates of recoverable energy indicate there’s between 3,000 and 30,000 times our energy needs down there. This isn’t intermittent power like solar or wind—this stuff is available all day, every day, all year round.

Soultz is not the only project. Drilling has started at several locations in Australia, including Paralana and a massive project at Cooper Basin. There has been an operational plant in Landau, Germany since 2007 that produces enough power for more than 6000 homes. Sweden and Japan are in on the action. The first commercial plant in the US, partly funded by the US Department of Energy, is planned for Desert Peak, Nevada. The guys from Google see promise. They’ve invested in Potter Drilling, which has invented a faster, cheaper way of drilling using super-heated water to fracture the rock. There are pitfalls. EGS is still in early stages of commercial development, and there remain technical uncertainties related to the geophysics of deep-earth rock fracturing, water flow, and loss rates. We need to know more about using and expanding natural fissures and cracks in deep rock formations, and about how that structure will respond to having large amount of heat extracted over time. In Basel, Switzerland, there were reports of seismic disturbances when an EGS system was activated, and we must certainly mitigate that risk. But these are the sorts of challenges the engineering and scientific community solve all the time. The real barrier to widespread deployment of EGS is economic incentives.

How does it work?

Drill down a long way—2.5 miles to 6 miles (4 km to 10 km)—to reach hot rock approaching 400°F (200°C). Drill another hole, some distance away. Pushing water down the first hole at high pressure fractures the rock between the two holes. To mine the heat, pump liquid down one hole, through the volume of rock, and up the other. Grab the heat at the surface and use it to generate electricity. Sound difficult? We already drill miles down in deep oceans (think BP and the Gulf) to get at small pockets of oil, and we fracture rock all the time to get shale gas. EGS is the same expertise. To get a sense of how much energy is there, just imagine a 70,000 tonne pile of coal. Extracting enough heat to lower the temperature of a piece of rock 1 km3 in volume by just one degree, gives as much energy as you get burning that pile of coal. That’s enough to power 14,000 homes for a year. An EGS plant that powers 100,000 homes takes up less than a square-mile (2sq km), and uses a 5 km3 underground reservoir of rock. When that plant runs out of heat, which would happen every six years or so, then you simply drill new holes a few miles away. The earth gradually reheats the original area. This is truly renewable energy. The real magic of EGS is you can drill for it pretty much anywhere. London, Adelaide, Toronto, or New York, it doesn’t matter. What has been done so far?

Starting with experimental projects in the 1970s at Los Alamos National Laboratory, US, and in 1980’s in Cornwall, UK, methods were developed to make fractures in hot, dry rocks way below the surface. A full-scale international collaboration is underway in Soultz, Germany. Small, experimental holes 2.2 miles (3.5 km) deep were drilled in 1997, and the site has been expanded to a full-scale pilot project using three holes 3.1 miles (5 km) deep. Water pumped into one hole emerges from the other at about 400°F (200°C). A power plant big enough to power 1500 homes is in operation.

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How do we get it going?

MIT figures EGS needs a $1 billion R&D “kick-start” (spread over 15 years) to establish the engineering know-how. At that point market forces would take over. They estimate that, by 2050, enough EGS systems would be built in American soil to satisfy 100,000,000 homes, or 10% of the total expected US electrical demand. That’s a conservative estimate of the potential, since it relies heavily on market forces and a natural rate of uptake. With a price on carbon, and access to low-cost debt, adoption rats would be much faster. Want to replace coal? Start drilling EGS holes beside every existing coal plant. Replace the furnace with a heat-exchanger. Keep the rest of the infrastructure—turbines, transmission lines, etc. If the input cost of coal plus the carbon liability is more than the monthly bill for the EGS plant, then it’s a nobrainer. Coal plant owners would come onside. There are no magic bullets on the clean energy front; every technology comes with technical and financial risk, particularly when it comes to project finance. But on a straight-up energy front, EGS seems to be as close to being a holy grail as one can find. In his recent book, “Kick the Fossil Fuel Habit: 10 Clean Technologies to Save Our World,” Tom Rand advocates thinking big—as big as we now think of fossil fuels. To spark the imagination, he asks: ‘What do you get for a trillion dollars?’ A trillion dollars of EGS gets around 400 GW of capacity, capable of replacing North America’s entire coal infrastructure. More information and an interesting video relating to this story can be found at www.kickthefossilfuelhabit.org.

Cooling solutions for energy management

Single-well engineered geothermal system GTherm SWEGS incorporates numerous unique and proprietary features that resolve many of the serious problems associated with EGS and transforms geothermal into a broadly deployable, non-polluting, and cost-effective approach to renewable energy. GTherm proprietary â&#x20AC;&#x153;closed-loopâ&#x20AC;? technology allows for the mining of geothermal heat from hot dry rock (HDR). GTherm SWEGS eliminates the need for hydraulic simulation, and the need to drill injection and production wells. SWEGS is based on a unique HeatNest, which integrates a downhole heat exchanger with heat harvesting appendages in a specialized high-thermal conductivity grout to maximize heat transfer from the geothermal resource. The heat transfer fluid is pumped downhole through the HeatNest and back to the surface where it is converted into electricity by either a standard binary cycle generator or an alternative low-temperature generator, depending on the thermal resource temperature. This environmentally benign, closed-loop approach is not only simpler and more controllable than the combination of injection wells, production wells, and artificial reservoirs used in existing EGS, but it also eliminates the massive maintenance issues associated with bringing corrosive, underground fluids to the surface for transformation into electricity. GTerm, Inc. | www.gtherm.net

Industrial Cooling Solutions has simplified energy management for cooling tower applications with its Energy Management System (EMS) controller. EMS controls are typically used whenever ambient conditions and plant system requirements allow for reduced power output. The EMS software and quick-start set-up parameters allow the operator easy access to set control values for a wide range of applications. The Energy Management System will automatically adjust cooling tower operation conditions from single cell to multiple cells as the process variables change, while still maintaining optimum cold water process system performance and protection. By matching cold water demand directly to the process requirements, small variations in the process can be corrected rapidly by an Energy Management System, rather than by other control forms. Any reduction in speed achieved by using an EMS has major benefits in reducing gearbox wear, particularly in bearings and seals. The EMS controller lowers system costs by eliminating large control steps in the cooling tower system. Savings of 20% to 50% can be achieved, depending on the application, by adjusting fan speed to match process cold water demand. Industrial Cooling Solutions | www.h2ocooling.com

Personal water analytics The TrueSense Personal Water Analytics (PWA) system is a self-contained, easy-to-use offline water testing system that ensures accurate results, quickly and reliably. The system is comprised of a reader that performs routine measurements and stores data, consumable cards, and desktop manager software. Used with the Cooling Water Card, the TrueSense PWA system evaluates a single three-milliliter sample of water and provides simultaneous, easy-to-read results for multiple chemical parameters critical to cooling waterâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in just minutes. Simple, on-screen instructions guide the user through all of the steps necessary to conduct a test that produces reliable, accurate results every time with minimal training. GE Power & Water | www.gewater.com

Field Proven. QuikDrill Geothermal PTS gauge The K10 PTS Surface Readout (SRO) Unit operates with the K10 Geothermal PTS (Pressure, Temperature, Spinner) gauge with real-time surface readout. The unit provides power and receives data from the downhole tool over a single conductor cable. The data is displayed in the Surface Readout System and/or PC. The unit will also record depth and line speed when using a digital encoder. It also provides real-time graphing of pressure, temperature, and spinner data during operation. The K10 PTS SRO Unit is designed to provide an intuitive and rugged solution to field data acquisition. A rugged Solid State Drive is utilized to provide excellent reliability. The durable touch screen is chemical resistant and uses capacitive technology to insure proper functionality. The K10 SRO Unit can be programmed with adjustable storage rates to meet required needs. The software is user upgradeable for future expansion. Data can be easily exported onto a USB drive. Probe | www.probe1.com

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biopower

Biomass Supply for Electricity Generation By David Benson (left) & John Eustermann (right)

ood and other organic materials have been used as fuel for the generation of energy for decades—in fact, for about the last 1.5 million years. Recently, utilities, developers, and stakeholders have recognized the environmental and economic benefits of using these materials, such as forest slash, wood residue, waste wood, and certain non-food energy crops (herein, referred to as “biomass”), as fuel for energy generation. The development of a biomass energy facility is heavily dependent on the ability to economically deliver to the facility the quantity and quality of biomass necessary for a project. This article presents a few of the issues the developer of a biomass electricity generation project should consider to ensure a long-term supply of biomass. Although it doesn’t focus on other organic materials, such as municipal solid waste (MSW) or energy conversion methods like biomassto-liquid fuels, many of the issues and solutions discussed are relevant to such projects.

Production & logistics. Biomass production and logistics require significant upfront attention by developers, suppliers, and financiers. Production issues range from cultivating biomass resources to establishing the rights needed to harvest or collect biomass in a manner consistent with current production paradigms, while also addressing sustainability and ensuring the health and safety of the environment and those engaged in the activity. For logistics, the primary challenge is a lack of mechanized harvesting equipment and the means to efficiently and economically transport biomass from its source to the processing facility. Unlike agricultural products, MSW, or biosolids that have well-developed supply mechanisms, the infrastructure for delivery and storage of biomass for energy generation often needs to be custom built and is not cost effective. This lack of infrastructure introduces additional costs and risks into a project that, unless managed appropriately, can have a detrimental effect on the ability to arrange financing. Generally, the success of a biomass facility requires the facility secure long-term access to the necessary biomass feedstock on a cost-effective basis. Project data & biomass specifications. Given the importance of biomass supply to the success of a project, a developer must obtain a detailed biomass supply study addressing the quantity and quality of feedstock needed for the particular conversion technology being used. Such a study provides a developer and the prospective project financing parties with modeling data for confirming: 1. Sufficient supply; 2. Siting the facility; 3. Biomass suppliers and harvesters (which may be separate parties); and 4. A project’s overall viability and financeability. In obtaining such a study, a developer should engage in the appropriate levels of due diligence with respect to those third-party consulting firms offering such services, as a great deal is riding on the results. The quantity specifications are a function of the size of a facility, the conversion technology, and the economically available quantities of biomass that can be delivered to the facility on a long-term basis. The quality specifications, though a function of the conversion technology, may also include the following categories based on a dry basis and as received: • Heat of combustion; • Ash content; • Particle size; • Moisture content; and • Selected elemental content.

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Biomass that fails to meet the necessary specifications should be rejected by the buyer or subjected to a reduction in price as set forth in the supply agreement. Turning biomass into power generally involves either the combustion or gasification of biomass, which energy (gasification involves another step of combusting the biogas) is then used to produce steam to generate electricity from a turbine. With an understanding of the conversion technology and a comprehensive biomass supply analysis, a developer can identify the needed terms in the supply agreement and, hopefully, figure out the project’s economic model. Biomass pricing. The developer should consider several factors when pricing biomass including current and projected disposal costs, transportation distances, volumes (to be made available or delivered), a reliability quotient, quality specifications, and processing costs. To create some pricing consistency and objectivity, certain industry participants are working to create biomass indices based on prior reported transactions. Until such mechanisms become available, creating a pricing model is complex and often involves combining a number of factors listed above with currently indexed energy commodities. Developers needing to formulate a biomass pricing scheme in a long-term supply agreement should not underestimate the value of engaging qualified experts. Biomass supply wrap arrangements. Even if a developer has a solid biomass supply study, solid economics, and reliable suppliers, lenders may still be reticent to finance a biomass project due to perceived market risks and uncertainties that can adversely affect the supply of biomass to the project. Similar to an EPC wrap, lenders would like the same risk protection for the biomass supply to a project. Such an arrangement is being considered and some have recently been formalized, such as the arrangement offered by Ecostrat of Ontario Canada for woody biomass. The goal of such a supply wrap is to reduce the supply and pricing risk for biomass by guaranteeing supply availability and pricing (often fixed to a mutually recognized forestry pricing index) for 10-year to 15year terms. The pricing under such instruments are, of course, subject to certain escalators such as the cost of diesel, inflation, distance (per-mile escalator for hauls in excess of an agreed upon upper limit), and stumpage. Furthermore, as expected, a developer will need to consider the associated cost of implementing such an instrument (some premium on per bone dry ton basis). Naturally, in the case of today’s current debt situation, absorbing such costs may be the only option to arrange financing. Biomass supply present unique challenges for developers. The wise developer is thoughtful when arranging the supply of biomass to meet a facility’s needs. He or she must carefully consider the reliability, costs, and risks in the overall supply chain to properly analyze a project’s economics. The developer should expect to work continuously with suppliers, processors, and transporters to address the inevitable issues and to develop new supply options. Once armed with the appropriate data, a developer is in a position to define the duties and obligations of the counter-parties in the supply, harvesting, and delivery agreements. Finally, implementing a biomass supply/pricing wrap may be an effective method reducing biomass supply and pricing risk to obtain financing. David Benson and John Eustermann are partners at the law firm of Stoel Rives LLP. Stoel Rives LLP | www.stoel.com

Portable Fuel Feed System for burn testing of alternative fuels The Portable Feed System (PFFS) offered by Jeffrey Rader Corporation is specifically designed for on-site alternative fuel testing. The portability of these units offers the convenience of a testing system capable of being relocated as needed for testing at different locations and under different conditions. Used for testing boilers, kilns, or other processes, this system allows the owner/operator the greatest flexibility for verifying boiler performance with different materials. Testing materials prior to investing in a large material handling system for a boiler or kiln is an effective and economical way to ensure process performance and emission levels based on actual site conditions, fuel types, and feed rates—something that varies widely with each location and fuel used. This system is skid mounted with a hopper system for storing and metering the material. A twin screw can feed the material directly into a pneumatic system or, when greater accuracy is required, the twin screw feeds to a weight-belt feeder. This material is then metered into a special rotary valve that feeds the pneumatic system. The material is pneumatically blown directly into a boiler/kiln through a port on the burner, or into a pulverized fuel line prior to the burner. When direct pneumatic injection is not an option, and a mechanical feed is used, the material is discharged through a cyclone before entering the mechanical feed system. Jeffrey Rader Corporation www.jeffreyrader.com

Heavy duty diverter valves Imperial Systems, Inc. heavy duty diverter valves are an effective method for directing material/air flow from a single source to multiple destinations. These diverter valves are engineered for durability and long life. Standard features include: heavy duty 10-gauge construction; three seal types (rubber on metal, urethane on metal, and metal on metal); locking quadrant; heavy duty flange bearings; bolt on removable top and side access doors; and, smooth interior with no rough edges. They are available in manual, electric, or pneumatically operated with stainless steel construction, and AR body and blade. Diverter valves are used in a variety of applications, including: recycling, seed, grain, woodworking, steel, mining, aggregate, biofuels, food processing, pet food, ethanol, agricultural, chemical processing, paper scrap, and fiberglass.

re-li-able 1: suitable or fit to be relied on 2: giving the same result on successful trials

Imperial Systems, Inc. | www.isystemsweb.com

Biomass & biofuel processing systems WSM’s field-proven grinding, screening, milling, and conveying equipment and complete systems supply superior biomass and biofuel processing solutions. One system converts purchased raw biomass material into a finished fuel product. Pre-screening with WSM 60-12 Disc Screen directs acceptably sized material to the finished fuel discharge conveyor. Over-sized material feeds by gravity into a WSM 4048BP Vertical Feed Grinder and onto the finished fuel conveyor. The system is rated at 150 tons per hour. Included in the scope of supply are support structures, access platforms, and chute works. WSM’s integrated system design dramatically reduces engineering and installation costs while providing single source responsibility for fuel preparation. WSM’s solution-oriented approach and application expertise in processing systems is demonstrated in successful fiber prep systems in operation throughout the world. West Salem Machinery | www.westsalem.com

Organic biomass into ethanol fuel E-Fuel is pleased to announce its latest innovation, the E-Fuel MicroFusion Reactor, a disruptive technology that empowers users to process all forms of cellulosic waste into sugar water—the key ingredient for ethanol fuel. The E-Fuel MicroFusion Reactor makes available the virtually limitless supply of cellulosic waste materials as a suitable, renewable candidate for ethanol fuel production. Annually, in the US alone, almost one billion tons of organic waste material is available for processing by the MicroFusion Reactor into 100 billion gallons of fuel at little or no cost. Converting this waste into fuel reduces the burden on landfills where most waste is currently destined and the detrimental effects on the environment. The MicroFusion Reactor operates as a continuous process. Every two minutes the cellulosic material in the reactor chamber is completely processed and ready for fuel processing. The method of wood hydrolysis dissolves any wood or other cellulosic agricultural material in a manner that is residue free. Waste output is completely eliminated. The waste output is comprised of: 1) sugar water; and 2) lignin powder. The sugar water is fermented by the MicroFueler into ethanol. (The lignin is a valuable substance used in the pharmaceutical industry as an ingredient in various cancer-fighting drugs among other things.) The reactor eliminates the costs and complexities associated with commercial gasification, aerobic digester, enzyme, and acid pre-processing of cellulosic material typically used in traditional ethanol fermentation processes.

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E-Fuel | www.microfueler.com North American Clean Energy

biopower

A New Take on Algae Algae offers one of the best opportunities for future biomass production. Algae growth can actually double every day. However, current ways to process algae are not very well executed. There are better ways to utilize algae because it requires UV, warm water, and CO2. What’s required is a process whereby power plants and process plants utilize warm, cooling tower water to grow algae. CO2 would be taken from the combustion process, as it is a natural byproduct, and be injected into the algae growth chambers to help stimulate growth, while also reducing CO2 emissions. Failure of most algae production facilities stems from attempts to extract oil from the algae. This can be counteracted by filtering algae and injecting the entire de-watered algae into a boiler to burn. The oil and the algae fiber are both combustible and burn together. Both process plants and energy plants would get credits for their clean technology, plus they would be reducing their CO2 emissions and generating a natural fuel source. This is a possible process with positive benefits.

Increasing the Economy of Biomass Flow Control By Todd Loudin

uring the last decade the importance of environmental awareness has risen dramatically and industrial operators must consider the consequences of their actions on a larger scale. It is essential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which can be done in several ways, thanks to the multitude of technologies now available and offered by environmentally oriented companies and authorities. Although biomass technologies have been explored for years, only recently have these technologies become implemented for practical use. For instance, one of the most promising and most cost-efficient solutions is to use biologically decomposable fuel-based ways as a method of producing energy. The improved efficiency coefficient has enabled bio-energy to become a serious competitor to oldfashioned, non-renewable energy technologies. Today, it is possible to receive ready-made products and services applicable for biopower-related industries, which makes the “flow control” at a facility utilizing biomass essential. Biomass is not only related to biofuels, however. It is much more than that. Biomass includes plant or animal components used for the production of fibers, chemicals, fertilizers, or heat. Biodegradable wastes can be burned as a fuel in incineration plants. The combining factor of biodegradable materials is the composition, which includes different extractives, ash, lignin, minerals, sulfur, nitrogen, and solid particles.

Processing biomass

With solids and chemicals, biomass creates big challenges for process equipment such as valves and pumps. Typically, problems are related to the wearing of sealing or moving metal parts, which then leads to malfunction and can prevent the material from flowing, causing pipeline blocking. To solve this challenge, products are offered wherein no moving parts, metals, or seals are in touch with the medium. The only parts contacting the medium are the valve sleeve and the pump hose made from materials resistant to acid, alkali, fat, chemical, and solids. There is also a suitable sleeve or hose for each application, equipped with abrasion resistance. The promise of sustainable development

The introduction of new technologies in terms of making biomass handling more efficient is only one of the actions many companies have taken to uphold sustainable development. Manufacturing, supplier control, and material flow processes must also be taken into account. Using renewable and certified packing materials and methods, and avoiding environmentally hazardous chemicals is also all apart of maintaining positive flow control. Authorities have guided companies to use the best available technologies when they are increasing the production or building new production facilities. Todd Loudin is the president of Larox Flowsys, North America. Larox Flowsys | www.larox.us

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010

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Co-Firing Wood Pellets for Power Generation By Mike Curci

ince the 1800s, the United States has been using biomass to generate power for use in homes and manufacturing. Beginning in the late 1980s and early 1990s, European countries began conducting co-firing tests utilizing wood pellets. Today, there are numerous case studies, along with a multitude of generating facilities that use wood pellets to offset the usage of coal. Hasselbyverket in Stockholm has been using 250,000 tons of pellets a year since 1993, and Electrabel is currently co-firing using 300,000 tons a year at its Rodenhuize, Belgium power plant. The United States does not have a generating facility that utilizes wood pellets to generate power, yet the US is capable of producing over six million tons of pellets annually. Much of the US pellet production is currently exported to European countries for use in generating facilities. Recently, plans have been announced in the States for repowering or retrofitting facilities to be powered with wood pellet fuel. However, many of these projects are currently on hold or have even been completely abandoned due to pending EPA regulations. To date, only co-firing with pellets tests have been conducted within the US. The Europeans have led the bioenergy power generation boom for the last 20 years, just as the Chinese led the technology boom. Some US utilities will point out the few problems co-firing wood pellets present such as unit fouling, effects on SCR Catalysts, carbon neutrality, supply chain and, most commonly, the economics. Wood pellets provide more benefits than problems, however, and are a more economical choice for renewable energy as compared to wind or solar. Co-firing can be achieved with minimal capital investment and quick implementation, while simultaneously creating local jobs. Biomass repowering is more cost competitive since it makes use of existing plant equipment. Unlike wind and solar, co-firing is a direct replacement for coal generation capacity, which can be dispatched. The environmental benefits of co-firing, including a reduction in sulfur, nitrogen, and mercury emitted from generating facilities, have spurred the testing and implementation in European countries. Currently, the majority of co-fired boilers around the world are based on pulverized coal (PC) or circulating fluidized bed (CFB) technology. Both technologies exhibit high conversion effi-

ciency, however, CFBs usually offer lower furnace emissions and higher fuel flexibility. Implementing co-firing boiler technology can be ranked in the following order from no capital investment to high-level capital investments: co-milling, direct injection, unit conversion and, lastly and most expensively, Greenfield or Brownfield development. Co-milling presents lower capital costs, but also a lower energy yield when co-firing with wood pellets. Direct injection requires a capital cost of $500 to $700 a kilowatt, but also results in a higher energy yield when compared to direct milling. Unit conversion is another option, but requires a higher capital cost of $1,400 to $2,000 a kilowatt and new industrial boiler MACT policies must be seriously considered. State Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) or a Renewable Electricity Standards (RES) are the greatest driving factor for utilities that seek the opportunity to co-fire. Utilities have many options for meeting those standards such as with wind, solar, or biomass. Depending upon boiler technology and whether the project will be co-milled or use direct injection, the cost of meeting the RPS can be significantly lower. When utilities look to conduct co-firing tests, they must take into consideration seven key items: 1. Storage: Pellets are unable to be exposed to the elements like coal piles and must be kept dry; 2. Milling (sizing): Pellets must be reduced in size through the use of ball mills when being introduced into a pulverized coal boiler; 3. Delivery: Existing infrastructure at generating facilities was designed for coal and not pellets— therefore, consideration must be given to getting the pellet fuel to the boiler; 4. Slagging, Fouling: Woody biomass, as compared to herbaceous biomass, is less problematic in terms of fouling; nevertheless, consideration still must be given to prevent it; 5. Emissions: Fuel NOx can be higher if the boiler is not properly tuned; 6. Health & Safety: Off-gassing is a concern in wood pellet storage causing sickness and sometimes even death; 7. Ash Sales: Fly Ash containing biomass does not meet ASTM standards for use in concrete, so it must be land-filled.

Finally, it is apparent that fuel consistency for power generation is wanted by utilities. And, since pellets are uniform in size, shape, moisture, density, and energy content, they are a feedstock that must be considered. Nearly all forms of biomass have some hurdle that needs to be overcome, but the benefits drastically outweigh any problem biomass has—especially when using pellets. Co-firing wood pellets for power generation makes sense on an environmental, renewable energy, energy independence, and rural economic level. Pellets are a viable feedstock for power generation and should be utilized as such. Mike Curci is the chair of the Pellet Fuels Institute Commercial Fuel Committee. Pellet Fuels Institute | www.pelletheat.org

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Global Ocean Energy Prospects Boosted by Established Hydro & Wind Players Surge of prototype projects could signal dramatic growth in ocean energy industry

he global ocean energy sector is at a turning point, with over 45 wave and tidal prototypes expected to be ocean tested in 2010 and 2011, after only a dozen were installed in 2009, according to a new IHS Emerging Energy Research market study. If these initial projects are successful, the global ocean energy project pipeline is poised to begin scaling. IHS estimates that more than 1.8 GW of ocean projects in 16 countries are currently in the pipeline. The ocean energy industry’s recent development has attracted a slew of established energy companies with renewable growth ambitions, including European utilities and global technology suppliers—many with hydro and offshore wind experience. Boosted by government and policy support, the UK is currently the world’s leading market for ocean energy, with 300 MW of projects in the pipeline seeking to be installed over the next five years. The UK government hopes to add 1.3 GW by 2020, driven by its need to meet legally binding 2020 renewable targets. Ireland, France, Portugal, South Korea, and Australia are also key ocean energy markets and will remain the industry’s primary focus for the next decade, according to the study. Of the various forms of ocean energy, tidal energy is poised to mature first, with the promise of providing predictable, lower-cost electricity and a standard design. Tidal is attracting major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) into the ocean energy industry’s supply side. “The strong synergies between tidal turbine manufacturing and the hydro power industry have attracted major power sector OEMs,” said IHS senior renewable power analyst Marianne Boust. “Over the past two years, all three of the major hydro power turbine vendors— Andritz Hydro, Alstom Hydro, and Voith Hydro—who account for over 80% of the total global hydro turbine supply, have jumped into the tidal sector.” “Large hydro players see tidal as a synergistic growth opportunity, with at least 150 GW of installed capacity potential globally. Traditional hydro players are critical to catalyzing faster development and commercialization of the tidal industry,” added Boust. Greater involvement by large OEMs will help the ocean energy industry overcome its technological challenges and drive down costs. Several key players active in Europe’s scaling offshore wind industry are also turning their attention to ocean energy as they scale their renewable portfolios. Major European utilities have an extensive presence in offshore wind, and each has broadened its offshore activities to include ocean energy. While a few have taken equity stakes in ocean technology promoters, most are now shifting to fund project development joint ventures. “Continued policy support and the entrance of established energy players competing alongside maturing technology promoters signal the ocean industry’s potential to advance along the learning curve and to emerge as a scalable renewable energy alternative during the next decade,” Boust concluded. Global Ocean Energy Markets and Strategies: 2010-2030

Released in October 2010, this 228-page study analyzes the potential size and timing for ocean energy scaling, outlines emerging competitive strategies of wave and tidal project developers, and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of competing wave and tidal technologies. IHS is a source of information and insight in pivotal areas that shape today’s business landscape: energy, economics, geopolitical risk, sustainability, and supply chain management. IHS Emerging Energy Research (formerly, Emerging Energy Research) www.ihs.com 96

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31-02 14th Annual EUEC 2011 Pheonix, Arizona—Phoenix Convention Center www.euec.com

FEBRUARY 2011 1-2 Offshore Windpower 2011: A 54GW Opportunity by 2030 Hyatt Regency Boston—Boston, Massachusetts www2.greenpowerconferences.co.uk 9-10 AWEA Wind & Transmission Workshop Omaha, Nebraska; www.awea.org/events 23-25 Transmission Planning & Expansion Miami, Florida; www.marcusevansch.com/REWTransmission 24-25 Solar Industry Conference Rome, Italy—www.solarpraxis.de

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APRIL 2011 3-5 PV America Pennsylvania Convention Center—Philadelphia, Pennsylvania www.pvamericaexpo.com

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