3rdsolarpressreleases

CyboEnergy Releases On/Off-Grid Solar Power System Design Guide August 12, 2015 — CyboEnergy, Inc. (Rancho Cordova, CA), the developer of the world's first solar power MiniInverter that possesses the key merits of both central inverters and microinverters, announced today that it has released an On/Off-Grid Solar Power System Design Guide. This guide will help customers and installers to design on-grid and on/off-grid renewable energy systems with battery storage to provide backup power when the grid is down. CyboEnergy's latest innovation, the On/Off-Grid CyboInverter, is the core product that enables this design.

CyboEnergy CEO, Dr. George Cheng said, "Response for the groundbreaking On/Off-Grid CyboInverter has been very positive since the product was released in June 2015. A number of On/Off-Grid CyboInverters have been successfully installed in different countries. Because there are no comparable products on the market, we developed this guide to provide a systematic approach for customers to design and build cost-effective and useful on/off-grid solar power systems."

As an example, the following diagram shows a 6KW on/off-grid solar power system where three On-Grid CyboInverters and an On/Off-Grid CyboInverter twin pack are used.

Each On-Grid CyboInverter is connected with four 300W solar panels, offering panel-level MPPT to maximize power production. The On/Off-Grid CyboInverter Twin Pack has a Master and Slave Unit working as a group, each of which connects to one 300W solar panel and a set of 36V batteries. When the grid is on, the system can generate up to 4.2KW power to the grid. When the grid is down, all inverters will shutdown immediately based on

the UL1741 safety requirements. The On/Off-Grid CyboInverters will then switch to the off-grid mode automatically to run the connected AC loads on the off-grid circuit. Since this is a scalable design, a larger system can be implemented with multiple on/off-grid sub-systems of different sizes. The total on-grid output power from each sub-system can be combined in an electric panel to be sent to the grid. Each sub-system will have its own independent off-grid circuit to power the connected AC loads when the grid is down. This enables a "plug-andplay" installation by using On-Grid and On/Off-Grid CyboInverters.

The CyboEnergy On/Off-Grid Solar Power System Design Guide is in an easy to understand format with graphics, drawings, comparison tables, and highlighted text. It is useful for companies, solar installers, and homeowners that want to build a useful and easy to install on/off-grid solar power system for homes and facilities, especially those where backup power is a necessity but not available, including: nursing homes, clinics, data centers, hotels, stores, etc. The guide can be downloaded from CyboEnergy's website at www.cyboenergy.com. To purchase CyboInverters or request an Installation Guide, please contact CyboEnergy or its distributors.

About CyboEnergy and CyboSoft

CyboEnergy is a subsidiary of CyboSoft, focusing on development, manufacturing, marketing, and services of product lines in the renewable energy field. CyboEnergy received the Frost & Sullivan’s 2013 Global Product Differentiation Excellence Award for Solar Inverters. Founded in 1994, CyboSoft is the leader in control technology serving the worldwide process control, building control, and equipment control markets. CyboSoft’s patented Model-Free Adaptive (MFA) control technology for automatically controlling physical processes is a major breakthrough. No other comparable technology possesses all the attributes of MFA.

CyboEnergy Shows Time-Based Grid Power Injection with Groundbreaking On/Off-Grid CyboInverters at Intersolar July 14, 2015 – CyboEnergy, Inc. (Rancho Cordova, CA), the developer of the world's first solar power Mini-Inverter that possesses the key merits of both central inverters and microinverters, announced today that the company is showing a grid-flexible renewable power generation system at Intersolar (Booth 8721) on July 14-16, 2015 in San Francisco, California. The system includes two daisy-chained On/Off-Grid CyboInverters that can operate in either on-grid or off-grid mode. CyboEnergy is also showing a time-based grid power injection capability of the system, where energy stored in batteries can be sent to the grid during peak power hours to help grid stability.

The rapid growth of solar energy deployment causes major challenges to grid stability known in the industry as "The Duck Curve". As shown below in the graph by California Independent System Operator (ISO), on an average day, the grid can run into the risk of over-generation from 11am to 5pm, and then the need to ramp generation quickly from 5pm to 8pm as solar drops off.

These curves produce a "belly" appearance and then ramp up to an "arch" similar to the neck of a sitting duck, hence the industry moniker "The Duck Curve". According to the study by ISO, if California meets the 33% renewable energy goal for grid power by 2020, power plants must be able to ramp up 13,000MW of generation within 3 hours in late afternoon to meet the demand. This will be a huge challenge to the current infrastructure.

CyboEnergy CEO, Dr. George Cheng said, "The grid load supply and demand challenges can be mitigated by utilizing energy storage to level the 'belly' and 'arch'. At Intersolar, we are showing a simple solution to allow grid-tie inverters to pull power from batteries and send AC to the grid during peak hours."

The unique multiple input channel design of the CyboInverter product family offers seamless integration of renewable energy sources including: solar, wind, fuel-cell, hydro, and batteries. CyboEnergy's technologies will be useful in integrating battery storage in residential, commercial, and microgrid applications, implementing ondemand grid power injection, demand-response pricing, and power arbitrage. CyboEnergy is working with industry leaders and utility companies to implement demand-based power injection functions where a large number of ongrid and on/off-grid CyboInverters can send power to the grid based on commands from the grid dispatch center.

CyboEnergy is running live demos for both on-grid and on/off-grid systems with grid power injection capabilities.

Please visit booth 8721 at Intersolar at Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco on July 14-16, 2015.

About CyboEnergy and CyboSoft

CyboEnergy is a subsidiary of CyboSoft, focusing on development, manufacturing, marketing, and services of product lines in the renewable energy field. CyboEnergy received the Frost & Sullivan’s 2013 Global Product Differentiation Excellence Award for Solar Inverters. Founded in 1994, CyboSoft is the leader in control technology serving the worldwide process control, building control, and equipment control markets. CyboSoft’s patented Model-Free Adaptive (MFA) control technology for automatically controlling physical processes is a major breakthrough. No other comparable technology possesses all the attributes of MFA.

Columbia solar business expands headquarters Beams of sunlight and employee enthusiasm fueled the crowd of blue and orange as Direct Energy Solar opened its new solar headquarters with a ceremonial solar panel switch-flipping Wednesday in Columbia.

After acquiring Annapolis Junction-based Astrum Solar in July 2014, Direct Energy added "solar" to the company's name and launched plans to be one of the largest residential and commercial solar installers in the country.

The company quickly outgrew its former headquarters, Chief Information Officer Stephen Simons said, and decided to expand, making way for additional project managers, engineers, designers and sales and service agents.

"Our previous [headquarters] was very much a very low-overhead cash-grab, startup place," said Simons, who has been with Direct Energy since 2010. "It was some odd collection of offices we inherited and collection of cubes we inherited. We just made it work. Here, [the facility] is custom built to our needs and our specifications. We have an open workspace, which is far more efficient [and] far more collaborative."

Simons said the new 42,000-square-foot facility gives employees more open space and low cubicles, as well as "huddle rooms" for meetings and conferences with the company's local and national customer base.

The new headquarters is home to 160 employees with another 70 seats to be filled by the end of the year. Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO Lawrence Twele said that means an improvement in the county's workforce.

"Innovation fits directly with the [county] workforce, so we're very happy [Direct Energy] was able to stay in Howard County," Twele said. "The jobs they have are sales, marketing, engineering and installation, [so] it's one of those companies that provides a lot of opportunities for a wide range of skills."

Consumers can choose to opt out of utility company transmission and distribution costs, Simons said, by installing a solar panel on the roof, which can hold an average of 300 watts of power.

"Let's say you leave for work during the day and turn off everything," Simons said. "Your solar system generates that power to run the meter backwards and the utility will give you a credit for the power you're generating when you're not using it."

Although Direct Energy Solar Vice President Cory Byzewski said solar energy is "still in the early days," the company's operation plans to hire 800 employees in 2015 across North America to meet growth and expansion goals.

"For every thousand installs we do in the community, it's about 94 jobs we create just for our team, not including economic develop factors," Byzewski said. "We want to be one of the top three [companies] in the nation, [but] it's a tricky thing because it's a moving target. The industry is growing so fast [and] we want to be a part of it."

Direct Energy operates in six mid-Atlantic states and as far out as California, areas Byzewski said were "economically feasible" with stronger support for solar energy.

For Maryland, harnessing solar energy "makes sense," he said.

"We have states, like California and Massachusetts, where there's a more defined value proposition," he said. "We think Maryland is going to be a very strong state for solar in the future [and] we expect to be the number one player in Maryland since it's our home."

Following the ceremony, employees and local and state officials toured Direct Energy Solar's Innovation to Inspiration 18-wheeler mobile exhibit with an interactive display of new innovations in home, solar and business energy management.

As the company expands, President Scott Boose said solar energy will grow as well.

"Solar really helps us make a difference in customers' lives," Boose said. "Through the technology and innovation in solar, it positions us to make that difference and, frankly, allow customers to use less energy. From an energy company, [that's] not something you often here."

Ashfield, Buckland ready to ‘Solarize’ ASHFIELD — The Solarize Mass Plainfield-Ashfield-Buckland (PAB) partnership now has a solar photovoltaic panel installer and about 300 residents who are interested in bringing solar-generated power into their homes.

These and others from the three towns will be able to learn more about incentives for buying a photovoltaic system through this collaborative at a “Meet the Installer” workshop in Ashfield on June 10 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Ashfield Town Hall. For those who can’t attend, subsequent meetings will be held in Plainfield Town Hall on June 16 and the Buckland Town Hall on June 24, also from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Direct Energy Solar was selected by the PAB team from a group of eight applicants, with technical help provided by the Solarize Mass program run by the state Clean Energy Center and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources.

“The company has been the installer for 10 other communities in the Solarize Mass program and has a great reputation for high quality solar electricity systems and satisfied customers,” according to Plainfield solar coach Tim Walter.

For those living in or having businesses in Ashfield, Buckland or Plainfield, this program offers a free solar feasibility assessment and estimate, and installation prices below market rate, depending upon how many people buy and install solar arrays through this program.

If residents in the three towns buy enough solar arrays to produce a combined 200 kilowatts of solar energy, they will get the best bargain — “Tier 5” pricing that brings the cost of installation down to around $3.40 per watt, says Ashfield Solar Coach Jim Cutler.

Without the collaborative, he said, the cost is generally $4 to $4.50 per watt.

But Direct Energy Solar has offered to start the collaborative at Tier 3 pricing “because they have confidence we will exceed that,” says Cutler. “That says a lot about the amount of interest we’ve generated and the ability for the three (solar) coaches to corral information and get it to the installer.”

Earlier this year, this Solarize collaborative had a setback, when an installer hired in January was unable to reach a contract agreement with the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.

The new installer has a state contract and is ready to work.

The collaborative says a combination of low solar-panel prices and incentives makes going solar an affordable, lowrisk investment. For homeowners, the incentives include an unlimited 30 percent federal tax credit and a $1,000 state tax credit. Also, owners of solar power-generating systems can participate in the state’s Solar Renewable Energy Certificate, which provides revenue for systems with good sunlight.

The tiered pricing agreement, in which the price for everyone drops as more people participate, includes a $500 discount for the first 20 people who sign contracts and $100 bonus for everyone who refers another homeowner who goes solar. Also, Direct Energy Solar will donate $150 per installation to the towns, to promote solar energy.

If the collaborative adds 70 solar systems, for 500 kW of new solar power, the systems will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 300 tons per year.

Sierra Club and Dovetail Announce Partnership Dovetail is pleased to announce that the Ohio Chapter of the Sierra Club has selected us as their Solar Homes Program partner for the entire state of Ohio.

The Solar Homes Program is a national initiative by the Sierra Club to help accelerate the transition of our nation from dirty fossil fuels by streamlining the installation of clean energy solar systems on member's homes.The Sierra Club evaluates and selects a leading solar installer in each participating state. Dovetail was selected by the Ohio Chapter based on size, reputation, and commitment to quality installations.

Going solar with Dovetail also supports the Sierra Club's most important work to preserve and protect Ohio's environment. The Ohio Sierra Club Chapter receives a significant referral payment from Dovetail with each solar system installed.

Solar Leads New Energy in America Solar is now the fastest-growing renewable energy source in America!

The Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA) just released the latest Solar Market Insight™ report for Q3 2013 detailing a total of 10.2 gigawatts of solar electric capacity operating in the U.S (PV+CSP). That’s enough solar energy to power more than 1.7 million average U.S. households.

Here are some key facts from the report: ● ● ● ●

Photovoltaic (PV) installations reached 930 MW in Q3 2013, up 20 percent over Q2 2013.

The residential market showed significant growth and posted the segment’s largest quarter in history with 186 MW installed.

2013 may be the first year in more than a decade in which the U.S. installs more solar capacity than Germany.

SEIA forecasts that the U.S. will install a total of 4.3 GW of PV capacity in 2013, up 27 percent over 2012.

Sacramento Kings Draft EarthCam to Document Construction of Golden 1 Center New Time-Lapse Movie Showcases Project Progress-To-Date The heart of downtown Sacramento continues to undergo sweeping changes as Golden 1 Center -Sacramento’s world-class entertainment and sports center – is constructed. Since August 2014, the Kings have been relying on a winning combination of EarthCam’s live streaming video and time-lapse webcam technology to document the progress.

Project teams recently installed a new camera – the GigapixelCam – to broadcast and document the transition from construction site to coliseum. The camera was launched to coincide with the installation of a section of concrete stadia which was signed by Kings season ticket members. This new webcam produces impressive billion pixel panoramas and provides viewers an ultra-high resolution window inside the new arena, designed by world-leading architecture firm, AECOM. Archived footage from multiple angles will allow the Kings to document their contributions to Sacramento’s skyline.

“Embracing innovative technology is at the core of our guiding principles,” said Kings President Chris Granger.

“EarthCam allows us to safely take fans behind the construction curtain and provide them with spectacular views of our arena rising.”

In anticipation of the 2015-16 season, EarthCam Time-Lapse editors created a time-lapse movie highlighting the project’s progress-to-date. Kings fans can watch as the vision for their hometown team’s new arena starts to take shape, showcasing stunning HD imagery.

“Nothing brings fans closer to the construction process than a live webcam,” said Brian Cury, CEO and Founder of EarthCam. “When the fans finally step inside to celebrate this monumental moment in the

franchise’s history, I hope they feel like they have been a part of this incredible journey with their team since day one.”

The Golden 1 Center and adjacent mixed-use development is a once-in-a-generation transformative project that will redefine the Sacramento region. A third-party analysis estimated that the combined economic impact of the downtown arena and surrounding development will generate 4,000 permanent jobs and $11.5 billion in economic activity for the Sacramento region over the expected 35-year lifespan.

To track progress for the Golden 1 Center with EarthCam’s collection of construction cameras at the jobsite, visit www.Golden1Center.com/live.

ABOUT EARTHCAM EarthCam is the global leader in providing webcam content, technology and services. Founded in 1996, EarthCam provides live streaming video, time-lapse construction cameras and photography documentation for corporate and government clients in major cities around the world. EarthCam leads the industry with the highest resolution cameras available, including the world’s first outdoor gigapixel panorama camera system.

This patent-pending technology delivers superior billion pixel clarity for monitoring and archiving important projects and events across the globe. In 2014, EarthCam documented $151 billion of construction projects.

The company is headquartered in Northern New Jersey and maintains 12 additional offices worldwide.

EarthCam specializes in sports, arena and stadium construction documentation. Projects include: Atlanta Braves SunTrust Park, Atlanta Falcons’ Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Barclays Center, Baylor University McLane Stadium, BC Place, Daytona International Speedway, FIFA World Cup 2022 Stadiums, King Abdullah Sports City, Madison Square Garden, Minnesota Twins’ Target Field, Minnesota Vikings’ U.S. Bank Stadium, Marlins Park, Orlando Magic Amway Center, San Francisco 49ers Levi’s Stadium, Texas A&M Kyle Field, UC Berkeley California Memorial Stadium and University of Houston TDECU Stadium and Yankee Stadium.

Learn more about EarthCam’s innovative solutions at http://www.earthcam.net/.

EarthCam Premieres Mobile 4K Streaming Solution For Construction Managers New Wireless Camera From Webcam Technology Leader’s 2016 Product Line Introduced at CMAA EarthCam will demonstrate its new Mobile StreamCam 4K at the CMAA National Conference, October 11-13.

Leading companies from the AEC industries will gather at the annual event in Orlando, FL to learn how the implementation of new technologies are shaping today’s construction processes and how EarthCam is supporting the industry with its newest solutions.

EarthCam is changing the perception that it’s impossible to stream high quality live video over 4G cellular networks with its new Mobile StreamCam 4K solution. Featuring ultra-high resolution video for exceptional imagery, details are magnified and captured in 8 megapixel archives. The Mobile StreamCam 4K is completely portable and weighs less than 10 pounds, making it simple to move from one location to another. The durable, waterproof hard carrying case doubles as the mounting platform for the camera that can be attached to most fixtures. With wireless 4G connectivity built right into the case, project managers can broadcast to the internet in seconds, transporting a private group of executives to the jobsite or even a worldwide audience via a public website. The camera includes a 109° wide angle of view, great for getting into narrow spaces and making it a preferred solution for interior documentation. Ultra-HD live video can be transformed into a time-lapse movie to showcase any construction project in a dynamic way.

EarthCam makes jobsite documentation a seamless process with its ability to integrate into third-party project management software programs, such as Autodesk BIM 360™, Procore and SharePoint. Clients utilizing both EarthCam’s construction cameras and photography documentation services will benefit from the ability to share and organize their jobsite photos within their company’s internal project management suite. Users have the ability to display their jobsite cameras, access the archive calendar and share updating images in their software.

The webcam technology leader is also supporting the industry with mobile apps and visual information tools that elevate the project management process. With the new Site Map Cam app, users can turn their iPhone into a powerful jobsite documentation tool. Clients can document and track progress by attaching photos to construction site plans for a complete visual history of any project.

Learn how to use this innovative technology to document future projects at EarthCam’s CMAA Exhibit #315 or visit www.earthcam.net.

Easyflex Tankone Easyflex introduces Tankone our water expansion tank designed to maintain safe pressures in a domestic water heating system that utilizes a backflow preventer or check valve. Tankone features a butyl rubber diaphragm and plastic liner to separate the system water from the tank’s air charge. The system connection has a stainless steel nipple to prevent corrosion. High quality coating on the shell will helps to prevent external corrosion. Every Tankone tank is comprehensively tested and backed with a limited warranty.

Tankone’s shell is made of 16 gauge cold rolled steel and has a ¾ stainless steel MIP Hex for easy installation. It also consists of a 100% butyl rubber diaphragm which is lined with polypropylene. The steel clench ring inside regulates movement and prevents diaphragm from rubbing against the tank wall. It is factory pre-charged to 40 psig to give the installer to adjust the pressure needed for the job. Tankone is NSF 61 and 372 Complaint, UPC Certified.

Tankone’s benefit is that it protects water heater fixtures and appliances. Also preventing dangerous pressure build up that could damage property as well as people.

So if you are looking into thermal expansion tanks, let Easyflex Tankone be your answer for your project.

Softurn Isolation Valve Softurn Isolation Valve is Easyflex’s new innovative dial turn isolation valve. The smooth turning dial with a bidirectional turn knob has a drip tight seal. The Hassle free quarter- turn purge and drain valve is ideal for any tankless water heaters. This complete inlet/outlet valve system provides everything you need for a secure installation, including a full port testing and flushing of the system with easy-to-install union connections.

Softurn has a ¾ FIP Threaded with cold, hot and Pressure relief valves. The body is made of UNS C 46500 brass which is known to fight against corrosion and known for working performances in high temperature conditions. The ball valves are chrome plated brass with PTFE and a rated pressure of 125 psi. The burst pressure is 500 psi and water

supply temperature of 160 F will provide optimal performance in all your projects. Softurn is Lead -Free with NSF 61 and 372 Compliant. Think of Softurn when you need Isolation valves for your tankless water heaters for your home.

To Lease or To Own Solar?

Ay, that is the question. And a good one. The Ecohouse Solar team is asked about leasing options every day and we are here to report that leasing isn’t as common in Ohio as other parts of the nation given that we don’t have as much solar irradiance, state incentives or super, crazy, high utility rates (think $0.30/kWh).

Then the question becomes, would you rather lease or own your car? Most people would rather own their car, as the asset is cleanly yours. Similarly with solar, once you buy the system outright, you can anticipate that the solar system will add value to your home, especially once you go to sell in the future.

This table reflects the annual savings and payback for an owned solar electric system.

The other consideration is leasing options tend to go up in monthly cost after time, which isn’t the case when you own. When you buy your solar electric system you are buying your electricity at a fixed rate over the life time of the panels. Most solar panels are warrantied for 25 years and are expected to last up to 30-40 years.

Of course there are different types of leasing options which can be attractive depending on the size of the solar electric system. A solar power purchase agreement (PPA) is similar to a solar lease but differs in one key way. Instead of “renting” the system and receiving the benefits of using it, you instead agree to buy the power generated by the system at a set price per kWh. Monthly payments for both options are likely to be very similar.

Ultimately in Central Ohio, buying your residential solar installation is still the way to go and Ecohouse Solar will help you get some terrific financing through the state’s Ecolink program. This program offers a loan reduction rate of 3%. For example, home equity loans are available at about a 4% interest rate, and using this program to finance your solar installation would reduce the interest by 3%–1% interest isn’t too bad!

Delaware Ohio Couple Goes Solar Ecohouse Solar’s service was excellent. They did a complete solar panel installation on our roof.

We are very happy with it. Kevin Eigel was our contact and he is very competent, knowledgeable, and experienced. He has done a lot of energy audits, and did one for us. We will continue to be on the Green Energy Solar Tour to show off our solar panels.

Procter & Gamble to Make Iconic Brands Including Tide and Dawn with Wind Power New Texas based wind farm to provide 100 percent electricity to all P&G Fabric & Home Care plants in the US and Canada • Procter & Gamble (P&G) and EDF Renewable Energy (EDF RE) partner to generate wind power to meet P&G’s North American Fabric & Home Care plants’ electricity demands • P&G turns the American Business Act on Climate Pledge into a reality with wind power partnership • Amount of electricity generated by the wind farm would be enough to wash one million loads of laundry • Giant pinwheel ‘wind farm’ constructed on Capitol Hill (Washington DC) to celebrate the collaboration WASHINGTON D.C. (Oct. 19, 2015) – Procter & Gamble (P&G) announced today plans to meet its electricity demands by using 100 percent wind power to make iconic Fabric & Home Care brands, such as Tide and Dawn. This is possible thanks to a new partnership with EDF Renewable Energy (EDF RE) which will see a new Texas based wind farm generate 370,000 MWh of electricity each year. The wind farm will be fully operational in December 2016.

The partnership was announced at the White House today, as P&G became a signatory of the ‘American Business Act on Climate Pledge’. As part of the pledge, P&G agreed to achieve 30 percent renewable energy to power its plants globally by 2020, with a long term vision to use 100 percent renewable energy. This comes on the heels of a September announcement where P&G committed to reduce absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2020.

One of the key actions on the journey to rely more on renewable energy is to partner with EDF RE to build a wind farm in Cooke County, Texas. This will generate 370,000 MWh of electricity per year – enough to meet electricity demands for all of P&G’s North American Fabric & Home Care plants, where iconic brands such as Tide, Gain, Downy, Dawn, Cascade, Febreze, and Mr. Clean are produced.

The amount of power generated from the partnership will be equivalent to avoiding more than 200,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually. This equals one percent of the national annual reduction target for electricity emissions called for in the White House Clean Power Plan.

The electricity consumption of the plants makes up about half of their total energy consumption. The electricity will be exclusively generated by wind power. The plants will also continue to use natural gas for process heating and comfort heating during winter.

Speaking about the project Shailesh Jejurikar, North America Fabric Care President, P&G, commented: “I am delighted that our collaboration with EDF RE continues to provide our consumers with their favorite, high performing brands while reducing our environmental footprint.”

He continued: “At P&G, when it comes to sustainability, actions speak louder than words and this move is a significant milestone in delivering that promise. It is incredible that the wind farm will generate enough electricity for all our P&G Fabric and Home Care plants; to put that in context: This is enough electricity to wash a million loads of laundry.”

Tristan Grimbert, CEO and President of EDF RE states: “The participation of P&G to directly procure wind power is a concrete action that demonstrates their understanding of the benefits of renewable energy. Wind not only emits zero greenhouse gas emissions, but also delivers long-term energy price stability,” he continues “P&G is leading one of the fastest growing markets in the renewable energy space and we are pleased to be their partner to reach their climate pledge goals.”

To celebrate the scale of the collaboration, P&G Fabric & Home Care and EDF RE have constructed a mini-wind farm in Washington DC. The installation is placed on the lawn in front of the Capitol Building and is made up of thousands of spinning pinwheels.

Spinning Spur 3 Wind Project Reaches Commercial Operation SAN DIEGO, Calif. (October 13, 2015): EDF Renewable Energy (EDF RE) announced today that the 194-megawatt (MW) Spinning Spur 3 Wind Project in Texas reached commercial operation (COD) three months ahead of schedule on Sept 28, 2015. The clean electricity generated from the Spinning Spur 3 Wind Project will be provided to two municipal utilities, Georgetown Utility Systems and Garland Power & Light, under long-term Power Purchase Agreements.

The Project, located 50 miles west of Amarillo in Oldham County, commenced construction of its 97 Vestas V-100 2 MW wind turbines in October 2014 and feeds into the CREZ (Competitive Renewable Energy Zone) transmission infrastructure.

“We are excited to have commenced commercial operation of the Spinning Spur 3 project, and would like thank the residents of Oldham County and surrounding areas for helping us reach this important milestone,” commented Ryan Pfaff, Executive Vice President of EDF Renewable Energy. “We are also pleased to be working with Garland Power & Light and Georgetown Utility Systems to supply clean, competitively-priced electricity to their customers for years to come.” With the Spinning Spur 3 project in operation, the Group’s installed capacity in the state has now reached 1,066 MW through six wind energy projects.

Spinning Spur 3 will generate enough electricity to power approximately 58,200 homes. According to US Energy Environmental Protection Agency methodology, the project will avoid approximately 560,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year, the equivalent of the annual emissions from approximately 110,000 passenger vehicles EDF Renewable Energy is one of the largest renewable energy developers in North America with 6 gigawatts of wind, solar, biomass, and biogas projects developed throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

New material achieves 40% higher energy density Lithium nickel manganese oxide Li1+xMn 1.5 Ni 0.5 O 4 provides more than 210 milliampere hours per gram (mAh g-1) storage capacity, thus surpassing that of conventional cathode materials which is currently being used or developed. Scientists at the Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) have developed the cathode material for high energy lithium ion batteries, especially for EVs. It is quite easy to produce lithium nickel manganese oxide with well-known manufacturing processes.

Preliminary results of battery lifetime and safety are also positive. The ZSW is now seeking development partners for future material and cell production.

Source: www.zsw-bw.de

First grid-connected storage facility in Italy The 1MW/2MWh storage system has been connected to EGP’s 10 MWp Catania 1 photovoltaic plant. The storage system, which integrates the Durathon “sodium-metal halide” technology developed by General Electric, has been undergoing testing since May 2015 and has enabled the first field test of the use of this battery to reduce imbalances between forecast and actual output.

EGP’s goal is to transfer the expertise it has acquired in Italy to other plants it operates around the world, for example in Europe (Romania, Spain), Latin America (Chile, Mexico, Peru) and North America, as well as in other areas throughout the world where EGP is already present or is involved in business development (South Africa, Kenya).

Source: www.enelgreenpower.com

INTERSOLAR NORTH AMERICA HIGHLIGHTS INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN SIX EXHIBITION SEGMENTS SAN FRANCISCO, March 11, 2015 – The exhibition floor of Intersolar North America, the most-attended solar industry exhibition and conference dedicated to the North American market, will feature a number of segments highlighting the innovative products fueling the growth of the solar and energy storage sectors. Organizers expect approximately 18,000 visitors from around the world over the course of the three-day exhibition, held from July 14 to 16 in San Francisco’s Moscone Center West.

As part of the world’s leading and most international exhibition series for the solar industry, the eighth Intersolar North America will once again showcase innovations in PV and solar heating & cooling technologies from around the world, as well as new products in its fastest-growing exhibition segments: balance of systems (BOS) and mounting and tracking systems. Visitors will see the latest technologies and service offerings from leaders such as ABB, Inc.; TMEIC Corporation; Shoals Technologies Group; SolarEdge Technologies, Inc.; Multi-Contact USA; Schletter, Inc.; Quick Mount PV; Array Technologies, Inc.; Unirac, Inc.; and ArcelorMittal.

As solar PV module prices have declined, BOS components represent the next challenge for reducing overall system costs. Intersolar North America’s BOS and mounting and tracking systems exhibition segments have expanded year after year, due in part to the strong focus on developing efficient, cost-saving and time-saving products ranging from hardware to installation and finance. Organizers expect the BOS segment to grow by up to 10 percent this year.

Recent developments include the expanded market share of module-level power electronics, the increasing use of string inverters in mid-sized PV plants and the growing dominance of non-penetrating racking for rooftop PV. In utility-scale installations, the industry is focused on reducing labor in the field and commercializing innovative racking and mounting systems that provide the same amount of strength with less steel, part of an ongoing effort to simplify system design.

“The successful commercialization of these products, as well as aggressive policies and favorable market conditions, has lead to a soaring solar job market. In California alone, there are more than 50,000 solar jobs, prompting the Intersolar organizers to include more installation topics for this year’s event, as well as 20 technical training sessions,” said Markus Elsaesser, CEO of Solar Promotion International GmbH, and Daniel Strowitzki, CEO of FMMI International, the second organizer of Intersolar North America. “We are also encouraged by the significant growth of the mounting and tracking exhibition segment, which has increased 50 percent since 2011, and look forward to seeing what innovations are on display this year.” ees (electrical energy storage) Europe, the largest energy storage event in Europe and the world's largest industry platform for storage devices used in combination with PV, will expand this year to Intersolar North America.

Organizers expect 50 energy storage companies to exhibit at ees™ North America this year, a 255 percent growth over the past three years, which mirrors the rapid expansion of storage adoption worldwide.

According to GTM Research, the next six years will see a 34 percent annual growth rate for energy storage in the United States, with an anticipated deployment of 720 MW between 2014 and 2020. The market for solar PV plus energy storage in the United States is expected to grow from $42 million in 2014 to more than $1 billion by 2018.

Intersolar North America will showcase key players in the industry, such as S&C Electric Company; Engion by VARTA Storage GmbH; Bosch Energy Storage Solutions LLC; Enphase Energy, Inc.; Sonnenbatterie GmbH and Princeton Power Systems. The ees™ North America exhibit will be located in Moscone West.

Additional information about exhibiting at Intersolar North America can be found online.

INTERSOLAR AWARD, EES AWARD WILL HONOR TOP EXHIBITOR TECHNOLOGIES AND PROJECTS For the eighth year, Intersolar will recognize the innovative solutions on display at its global exhibition and conference series. The Intersolar AWARD is presented to new technologies and groundbreaking projects that demonstrate a commitment to commercializing cost-effective and efficient solutions to increase solar energy generation around the world. Exhibitors are invited to submit applications in the categories of Photovoltaics, Solar Projects in Europe and Solar Projects in North America.

Powered by Intersolar, the ees AWARD will recognize revolutionary energy storage products and solutions, including components or technical innovation in the fields of materials, production, systems, applications, second use and recycling.

“Every year, we strive to highlight the product innovations and trends driving down solar costs and increasing efficiency and reliability,” said Elsaesser. “The Intersolar AWARD is one of our favorite parts of our global event series, because it puts these breakthrough technologies and products on the world stage. We’re excited to see this year’s submissions, and look forward to announcing the winners! ”All international Intersolar and ees exhibitors in 2015 are invited to submit their applications online. Applications are due March 27.

ABOUT INTERSOLAR NORTH AMERICA With events spanning four continents, Intersolar is the world’s leading exhibition series for the solar industry and its partners. It unites people and companies from around the world with the aim of increasing the share of solar power in our energy supply.

Since its establishment in 2008, Intersolar North America has become the most attended solar event and the premier networking platform for the North American solar industry. Co-located with SEMICON West, it takes place annually at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California, the United States’ pioneering solar market.

The event’s exhibition and conference both focus on the areas of photovoltaics, PV production technologies, energy storage and solar thermal technologies. Since being founded, Intersolar has become the most important industry platform for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, service providers and partners of the global solar industry.

A total of 530 exhibitors and 17,473 trade visitors participated in Intersolar North America in 2014. The conference featured 40 sessions and 25 workshops with more than 200 speakers.

With over 20 years of experience, Intersolar has the unique ability to bring together members of the solar industry from across the world’s most influential markets. Intersolar exhibitions and conferences are held in Munich, San Francisco, Mumbai, Beijing and São Paulo. Starting in 2014, these global events will be complemented by the Intersolar Summits, which is to take place in emerging and growing markets worldwide.

SPECIAL EES™ EXHIBITION TO DEBUT AT INTERSOLAR NORTH AMERICA 2015 SAN FRANCISCO, DECEMBER 3, 2014 – INTERSOLAR NORTH AMERICA, THE MOST WELL ATTENDED SOLAR INDUSTRY EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE DEDICATED TO THE NORTH AMERICAN MARKET, TODAY ANNOUNCED THAT ITS 2015 EVENT WILL FEATURE EXPANDED EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES AND CONFERENCE CONTENT DEDICATED TO THE GROWING ENERGY STORAGE MARKET. INTERSOLAR NORTH AMERICA 2015 WILL HOST A NEW SPECIAL EXHIBITION—EES™ (ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE)—TO SHOWCASE THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES THROUGHOUT THE ENERGY STORAGE VALUE CHAIN. INTERSOLAR SIGNED A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH NAATBATT INTERNATIONAL, A LEADING NON-PROFIT TRADE ASSOCIATION OF COMPANIES, ASSOCIATIONS AND RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS THAT ARE COMMERCIALIZING ADVANCED ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY STORAGE TECHNOLOGY FOR EMERGING, HIGH TECH APPLICATIONS, TO PARTNER IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EES™ PROGRAMMING. THE PARTNERSHIP WILL BOLSTER ENERGY STORAGE CONFERENCE OFFERINGS FOR THIS RAPIDLY EXPANDING MARKET SEGMENT. According to a report from IHS Research, the global market for energy storage paired with solar PV will reach nearly $30 billion by 2017, accounting for approximately 10 percent of total PV system revenues. California, home to Intersolar North America each year, is at the epicenter of energy storage innovation and progressive policies.

The state’s ambitious storage procurement targets require 1,325 MW of storage to be connected to the grid by 2020, with installations completed by 2024.

Storage technologies promise to bolster the percentage of solar generation because they ease the integration of renewable energies onto the grid, enhance grid resiliency and reliability, and encourage more self-generation of power by customers. For the past two years, Intersolar North America has spotlighted this growing segment,

including combination PV-energy storage systems, and the introduction of ees™ reflects the event’s dedication to highlighting the latest in technologies contributing to the growth of the solar industry. Intersolar first debuted the ees special exhibition at Intersolar Europe 2014, where it was a resounding success with 258 companies showing energy storage solutions and more than 26,000 industry professionals attending the ees.

“Intersolar keeps its finger on the pulse of the solar industry to bring attendees the content that matters most to their businesses. Throughout our 2014 event in San Francisco, the exhibition halls and conference sessions were abuzz with talk of the vast potential for energy storage paired with solar technologies, and we knew we wanted to expand in this area for 2015,” said Markus Elsaesser, CEO of Solar Promotion International GmbH, organizer of Intersolar North America.

“We know the ees special exhibition will be a huge hit with our attendees, and our partnership with NAATBatt International will further strengthen educational opportunities and business connections in and around this space,” added Klaus W. Seilnacht, CEO of FMMI International, organizer of Intersolar North America.

Intersolar North America’s agreement with NAATBatt International builds on the organizations’ initial collaboration at last year’s event, and reflects Intersolar’s commitment to collaborating with industry organizations.

“Our partnership with Intersolar North America brought a flood of opportunity to our members in 2014. The overwhelming interest we saw from attendees around innovative energy storage technologies and business models made our decision to expand this relationship quite easy,” said James Greenberger, Executive Director of NAATBatt International. “We look forward to deepening our partnership with Intersolar in 2015 and beyond, and doing our part to place a spotlight on storage during the ees special exhibition and accompanying programs at Moscone West and the InterContinental Hotel.”

About Intersolar North America With events spanning four continents, Intersolar is the world’s leading exhibition series for the solar industry and its partners. It unites people and companies from around the world with the aim of increasing the share of solar power in our energy supply.

Since its establishment in 2008, Intersolar North America has become the most attended solar event and the premier networking platform for the North American solar industry. Co-located with SEMICON West, it takes place annually at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California, the United States’ pioneering solar market.

The event’s exhibition and conference both focus on the areas of photovoltaics, PV production technologies, energy storage and solar thermal technologies. Since being founded, Intersolar has become the most important industry platform for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, service providers and partners of the global solar industry.

A total of 530 exhibitors and 17,473 trade visitors participated in Intersolar North America in 2014. The conference featured 40 sessions and 25 workshops with more than 200 speakers.

With over 20 years of experience, Intersolar has the unique ability to bring together members of the solar industry from across the world’s most influential markets. Intersolar exhibitions and conferences are held in Munich, San Francisco, Mumbai, Beijing and São Paulo. Starting in 2014, these global events will be complemented by the Intersolar Summits, which is to take place in emerging and growing markets worldwide.

Solar Panels: They turn sun rays in savings, but how?

From sunrise to sunset, photons from the sun are beaming down onto your solar modules. These incoming photons provide the extra energy necessary to initiate a flow of electrons from your silicon solar cells. This flow of electrons is electricity!

The electricity produced by the solar cells within the solar modules is in the form of direct current (DC) electricity that flows to an inverter.

The inverter converts the raw DC electricity being produced by your solar modules into alternating current (AC), which is used within your home and by the utility. The converted solar electricity is delivered directly to your home’s main electrical service panel where it is distributed to your loads. If the demands of your loads are met entirely by solar, then the excess electricity flows back to the utility through your electric meter!

The electric meter measures the net electricity usage, showing the difference between the electricity brought into your home from the utility and sent out of your home by the solar system. The difference is your net consumption – or production! If your net-produce during any billing cycle, the excess will be rolled forward and credited towards your next billing cycle.

The Perfect Match: Pairing Microinverters and Solar Modules Ever wonder why we pair M215 microinverters with 285W solar modules? At first glance it may seem like there is the potential for lost sun rays, but actually the combination results in substantial gains in annual production with minimal losses to inverter saturation — and it’s the most cost-effective pairing when comparing cost versus value of larger microinverters.

Need a full explanation?

Recent studies by Enphase Energy found that using larger module sizes significantly improves annual energy production, even while inverter size remains unchanged. By applying high power solar modules to microinverters you will gain greater lifetime performance, lower installed cost per watt, and ultimately, the

highest return on your investment. However, increasing the microinverter size increases the system cost with little effect on increased system production.

Losses incurred from inverter saturation (this happens when the solar module produces more than the inverter's maximum of 225W) are negligible because microinverters spend very little time in saturation. The reason for this is that a solar module very rarely produces its rated power due to losses from heat. The rating comes from tests done at "STC" or Standard Test Conditions of 1000W/m2 solar irradiance and 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Those conditions are certainly reasonable for a warm sunny day in Portland, but when you consider that a solar cell is roughly 19% efficient, the other 81% of 1000W/m2 gets turned into heat! When temperatures go up, voltage (and thus power) go down. Before you get discouraged, rest assured that this is all taken into account when predicting your system's annual production. When tested by Enphase, annual losses to inverter saturation were insignificant. In 90% of the scenarios using the M215 Microinverter, annual losses were less than 0.5%!

In the figure above, you can see that the 285W solar module is almost approaching the point where it would be an even trade-off. However, even if it were to reach that point, we would likely recommend chosing the M215's because they have proven to be a high-quality product with low failure rate. While the M250's may also live up to that same quality standard, it would take 30 additional years to reap the full benefits of its capacity from an investment when compared to the shorter ROI of the M215s.

It is evident from both the Enphase study and our own monitoring of Elemental Energy installed solar systems throughout Oregon, that pairing high power solar modules (such as the 285W) with the M215 microinverter results in substantial gains in annual production, minimal losses to inverter saturation, and your largest return on investment!

Ringing in the New Year with New Incentives!

With the New Year just around the corner, there are many things to look forward to including some new incentives!

Here’s the round up: 1.

Made in Minnesota

As we highlighted in our last newsletter and recent blog post, Made in Minnesota (MiM) is an incentive program aimed to build jobs in Minnesota through the use of locally made solar thermal and solar electric products. A lottery-based program, people with either Xcel, Ottertail Power, Minnesota Power, and Alliant Energy as their electricity provider are eligible to receive rebates based on the size of the system (solar thermal) or how many kilowatt hours (kWh) a system produces annually.

Entering into its second year, the Minnesota Department of Commerce – Division of Energy Resources will continue to allocate the $15 million for solar electric and $250,000 for solar thermal over the next ten years. Residential systems and commercial and non-profit systems each have 10kW and 40 kW systems size limit respectively and their own incentive amount. Customers will still also benefit from traditional Net Metering savings from their utility with a combination reduction in on-site energy usage as well as credit for any excess energy produced. Learn more about MiM, here.

Application Time Period: January 1st – February 28th, 2015 1.

Xcel Energy’s Solar*Rewards®

For those living within Xcel territory, you’re in for another treat as Xcel has recently revamped its program for Minnesota customers. Solar*Rewards offers incentives and rebates for residential solar electric installations; customers will benefit $.08 per kWh produced by their system over ten years instead an upfront, one-time payment from past years. Additionally, the energy produced by the solar system reduces their bill via traditional net metering interconnection. Residential systems are allowed to 20kw instead of 10kW limit on MiM’s program, increasing the owner’s energy saving and payback. Xcel Energy’s Renewable Development Fund is providing $5 million annually for the program to show Xcel’s dedication to meeting its goal to provide 1.5% of Minnesota’s via solar by 2020.

Learn more about Solar*Rewards, here.

1.

Focus on Energy’s Cash-Back Rewards Program

While the exact amount of funding for the 2015 Renewable Rewards Program to be officially announced, we can be excited to have an incentive system for those solar-curious Wisconsinites. Focus on Energy is an energy efficiency and renewables resource program for Wisconsin utilities with the goal of making the lives of residents and businesses greener. Incentives will remain the same as last year’s. Installations with qualifying solar electric equipment will earn $600 per kW DC installed with a maximum of $2400 through the Cash-Back Rewards program. Unlike the Minnesota incentives, over a hundred Wisconsin utilities (https://focusonenergy.com/about/participating-utilities) are apart of the program and rewards can be reserved before the system is built, which is a significant change from last year. Another requirement is the system must be installed by a Trade Ally such as Energy Concepts. Learn more about Focus on Energy’s program, here.

Applications Available: January 1st, 2015 1.

USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program

Aimed at agricultural producers and small rural businesses, Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) offers support to purchase, install, and construct renewable energy systems and use renewable technology to reduce energy consumption through the Renewable Energy System and Energy Efficiency Improvement Guaranteed Loan and Grant Program. Requirements include that agricultural producers derive at minimum 50% of their gross income from their operations and small businesses fit the Small Business Administration’s Small Business Size Standards. Loans can fund up to 85% of the project, while grants can fund up to 25% of eligible project costs or a maximum of $500,000. Due to the second 2014 funding cycle being delayed until 2015, there will be three funding cycles in 2015; March, April, and October. Learn how REAP can assist in your rural business, here.

Contact us for information on how to apply for REAP.

Being that applications for lottery-based MiM are due February 28th, and that Solar*Rewards incentives are on a first-come, first-serve basis, it is best to plan ahead. Why not start thinking about adding solar to your future now? Take some time as you ring in the New Year to consider if you you’d like an easy, achievable, and money-saving Resolution this year, then toast to a new year, friends, family, and harnessing the power of the sun!

Airport Solar Install Makes RENEW Wisconsin’s Honor Roll As semester final marks are sent out from colleges across the country, we, too, are excited to announce that Energy Concepts has made the grade. RENEW Wisconsin has notified us that we made their Class of 2014 Honor Roll for “advancing solar generation” in Wisconsin for the 100 kilowatt (kW) solar array at Dane County Regional Airport. The airport’s array among other qualifying projects will be recognized at RENEW’s Energy Policy Summit, titled “Unlocking the Clean Energy Transition,” in January in Madison, WI. For the last past 23 years, RENEW Wisconsin has supported renewable energy policies in Wisconsin through advocacy, education, and collaboration, and we are

grateful for their work in the state. We could not be any more honored to have been selected for the Honor Roll, as we are extremely proud of the project and everyone who worked on it with us. Michael Vickerman, Program and Policy Director of RENEW Wisconsin, commented on the connection between our projects and RENEW’s efforts, “seeing creative and highly motivated entities like [Energy Concepts] powering positive change in Wisconsin is [RENEW’s] reward for laying down the policy foundation that supports this market sector.”

Speaking about the Dane County install, Vickerman continued, “This installation exemplifies the new generation of clean energy projects powering Wisconsin today and tomorrow.” The 377 Suniva panels installed on atop the airport’s brand new Snow Equipment Removal Building will provide power for half of the building’s electricity, up to 135,000 kilowatt per hour (kWh) each year, which is enough to cover the annual usage of 12 typical American homes. Not only is its roof efficient, but Airport Director Bradley Livingston, AAE, further promoted the building’s new benefits, “the ability to house and maintain all of our snow removal equipment in one facility will improve operational efficiencies.” By reducing out-of-service times for essential airfield maintenance equipment, flying will be more efficient on top of being a little greener.

Those almost 400 panels did not arrange themselves and become the largest municipally owned solar system in Wisconsin by themselves however. This turnkey photovoltaic system started with a successful public bid followed by carefully thought-out by our own Professional Engineer Craig Tarr using quality, American-made solar panels, racking, and inverters, and was engineered and installed by experts who know solar. Installing a new construction public project such as this one requires a depth of knowledge and experience to successfully execute. Energy Concepts was pleased to partner with MIRON Construction and deliver this high visibility project that benefits airport travelers and Dane County. Thank you to RENEW Wisconsin for acknowledging our hard work and the positive effect this and many other solar systems have on our state.

Millvale library turning toward solar power thanks to Sun Club donation Millvale Community Library will be able to expand its programs after getting a donation from the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club.

The Green Mountain Energy Sun Club donated $30,000 to the Millvale Community Library as one of its 2015 Sun Club recipients.

“What you guys are doing here, all community-based and community-funded, it blew me away,” said Tony Napolillo, the Sun Club's program manager. “I said, ‘we have to fund this place.' I can't tell you how unique this place is.”

Napolillo said the Sun Club recipients are evaluated each year based on their need, mission and passion for educating the community about the importance of renewable energy. He said seeing that the library had already installed rooftop solar panels and had an energy education center in the library about renewable energy made the decision an easy one.

“It was really a no-brainer,” Napolillo said. “It was a perfect fit.”

Brian Wolovich, library president, said this donation will enable the library to run its operations 100 percent on solar power, which will also allow it to expand its programming.

Specifically, with the new energy source the library plans to purchase a refrigerator that will help its summer feeding program and a dehumidifier to dry out the basement and “protect their investment,” Wolovich said.

Through the Sun Club, Green Mountain Energy Company donates money to non-profits in the northeast and in Texas, where the company is headquartered, to fund the purchase and installation of new solar projects.

The Sun Club donated $422,000 to 10 non-profits across Pennsylvania and New York, including the Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center in Verona and Frick Environmental Center in Pittsburgh.

“It helps these nonprofits take away from operating costs and be able to put more into their mission,” Napolillo said.

Millvale Community Library installed the majority of its solar panels in September 2013 and an addition was installed this month, said Ian Smith, a solar energy consultant with Energy Independent Solutions.

Energy Independent Solutions, based in Robinson, installed all of the library's solar panels.

The new panels will be installed on the building next-door to the library that the library owns, Smith said, and will last more than 30 years.

Wolovich said they are excited to be a part of the changing landscape of renewable energy, and also to be a part of educating residents about solar power.

“It's very tangible,” he said. “It's very accessible. It's right here. It's not happening in a more affluent community.

We're able to prove that your neighborhood library can do it.”

Robinson renewable energy firm, others, face uncertain futures Joe Morinville's business in Robinson is having its busiest year ever and he could use five to seven more people to handle all the work. But he doesn't plan to hire anyone. These are uncertain times for his solar energy company, Energy Independent Solutions, and many others in the renewable power industry. In the midst of unprecedented growth, there are signs of a slowdown. Many of the government programs — grants, loans and tax credits — that spurred the growth are either done or on shifting ground, making private investors like Morinville skittish. “It absolutely handcuffs my growth. I want to grow my business, we want to invest, we want to hire more people,” Morinville, 45, of Robinson said. “But in order to make a venture like that, you have to have some kind of foresight. ... If there isn't a stable (government) policy going into the future, small-business men are afraid to hire people.” In part because of the same fears nationwide, private sector investment in clean energy dropped 37 percent from 2011 to 2012 to $35.6 billion, according to a report released Wednesday by the Pew Charitable Trusts and Bloomberg. China, second in 2011, surpassed the United States as No. 1 in the world with $65.1 billion of investment, leading the world in solar, wind and other renewables.

National leaders should see the development of renewable energy technology as an opportunity for exporting American-made goods, said Phyllis Cuttino, director of Pew's Clean Energy Program in Washington. China used tariffs, guaranteed purchases and mandates for renewable energy to encourage private investment, and the United States needs a wideranging energy policy to compete, she said. Shifting government policies are “just tough on the market,” said Ethan Zindler, head of policy at Bloomberg New Energy Finance. “It's not any way to build a manufacturing sector in a country if you have people constantly questioning whether your policy is going to expire.” In Pennsylvania, Gov. Tom Corbett has tried to foster certainty, said Patrick Henderson, Corbett's energy executive. He's committed to keeping pre-existing mandates that require more renewable power use in the state and won't change them, Henderson said. And he won't be passing new tax credits or incentives in favor of renewable power, either. “What was persuasive to policymakers four, five, six years ago, well, we've seen the applecart turned upside down by natural gas,” Henderson said, noting that natural gas has some of the same appeal as renewables, coming from domestic sources and burning with less air pollution. “I think it's time for all of them to stand (and compete) on their own.” That could lead to a lost opportunity for Pennsylvania because of the global competition, say advocates for renewable power. EverPower Wind Holdings Inc., a New York company that has now moved nearly all of its 60 workers to the Strip District, wants to keep expanding in the United States, preferably in Pennsylvania, Ohio or West Virginia, said Dhaval Bhalodia, who moved from Albany to become EverPower's operations manager. But if investment picks up abroad instead of in the United States, eventually that's where the growth will happen, he added. “There's quite a bit of capital looking for investment in renewable energy,” said Mike Speerschneider, the company's senior director of government affairs and permitting. “What's really the difficult

thing is really the political environment. ... The off-again-on-again policy really creates difficulty for investors.

Enphase Powers Iconic Sustainable Living Project in Australia Victoria, Australia has a reputation for being one of the environmentally progressive states in the country. Not surprisingly, it has the third largest installed capacity for solar photovoltaic systems, with Melbourne taking centre stage in some of Australia’s most progressive sustainable buildings projects.

Over the last 18 months, Enphase has worked on the Five x Four Project, an iconic four storey residential project in East Melbourne, Victoria, that is only twenty square metres in size.

The project sets a new precedent for the design and running of a sustainable home in Australia, as it considers the full lifecycle of a building’s development, from the design and use of materials to its day-to-day operations. It was modelled on a minimal life-cycle energy and One Planet Living approach, which has a commitment to enable a building’s occupants to monitor their ecological footprint and adapt their behaviour to minimise their impact on the environment.

The Five x Four Project is a four kilowatt installation specially designed to maximise the utilisation of solar power from panels affixed onto the roof and one side of the building. This split design of the solar system was made possible by using 15 Enphase M250 Microinverters attached behind individual solar panels to maintain the building’s aesthetics.

Five x Four currently exports approximately 20 per cent of the power generated by its solar system to the grid. With the Australian rollout of the Enphase Home Energy Solution in Winter 2016, Enphase will provide an Enphase AC Battery that will allow the owner of Five x Four to store solar power generated for use at night, saving even more money. You can view the live production of energy for the Five x Four Project here.

Project owner Ralph Alphonso qualified Enphase through a rigorous process to identify the right energy solution for his home. He said, “One of the key criteria in looking at different inverter offerings for Five x Four was determining the embodied energy that was used in the products.

Enphase was the only inverter company taking action to understand its embodied energy, and the Enphase Enlighten Software was a great way to educate and engage people about the potential for renewable energy.”

From November 5th-10th, the Five x Four Project will feature on Grand Designs Australia, a lifestyle television program that showcases some of Australia’s most uniquely designed urban homes.

New Look for MyEnlighten We get a lot of great feedback on our Enlighten software, and we use that feedback to make ongoing upgrades and improvements. So we wanted to share some recent updates to MyEnlighten based directly on that feedback. Now it's easier to view the performance details of your system, and to review historical data from previous days, helping you better understand the performance of your system. Watch the 2 minute video below to learn more about what’s new.

Highlights include: ● High-level overview of system’s performance ● Bird’s-eye view with status ● Date picker for any day in the lifetime of the system ● Production details tab Thank you for continuing to help us evolve the Enlighten experience, and stay tuned for more updates, such as the ability to monitor energy usage. Visit the MyEnlighten Feedback Center for further details and please send along any feedback via the FEEDBACK tab on the right-hand side of your MyEnlighten screen.

- Marvin Green Enlighten Product Manager

Boro’s Largest Solar Facility Opens In SE Queens PRESS Unsuspecting three story building deep within the quiet and secluded streets of JFK Airport Park in Springfield Gardens will soon be the largest solar energy supplier in all of Queens.

Councilman Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton), along with Enter Solar President Paul Ahern, John Phufas of JFK Airport Park and a number of other big names involved in the project, gathered to formally celebrate the completion of the facility with a solar panel ribbon cutting on Tuesday.

“While we are proud of all the solar projects we’ve worked on nationwide, from California to Massachusetts to the Carolinas, we are so proud to be back here in our own backyard in New York City,” Ahern said.

Ahern called the project unique, as it was the result of partnerships between a number of different companies including Con Edison, real estate developers, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, Solar investors and Bloomberg LP. An aerial flyby of the area reveals more than 5,500 solar panels spread across two building rooftops that will supply the energy, similar to how a power plant functions. The energy will be used primarily by two Bloomberg buildings located in Manhattan, the company’s global headquarters in Midtown and its data center located downtown. In addition to the use of energy by the Bloomberg buildings, the access energy will be available for all nearby users of the same electrical grid. The project is being headed by the previously mentioned solar power company, Enter Solar, who are known nationwide for their work in the solar energy field, offering financial incentives to clients for switching to the power alternative.

The plan comes as a result of the NY Sun initiative introduced by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2012. The proposal was meant to get New York moving towards more clean energy alternatives throughout the state creating a self sustaining and sufficient solar industry. In 2014, Cuomo allocated more than $1 billion to the project. Mayor Bill de Blasio has embraced the plan as well, allocating more than $28 million towards the program last year. Since its inception, NY Sun powered more than 300 megawatts of solar energy across the city, an increase of 300 percent since 2011.

“New York is in the midst of creating an energy system that is clean, resilient and affordable,” director of NY Sun David Sandbank said. “It can lead us to a path of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent come 2050.”

Sandbank mentioned the many advantages of solar power on such a scale including its virtual silence when producing energy and said that he hopes to see more Manhattan buildings embrace the method of energy.

The project will use what is called remote net metering. Remote net metering, or shared solar, is a process that will collect the solar energy and store them in a energy grid elsewhere. In this case, the collected energy will be sent to a Manhattan power grid, creating a surplus of energy for the two buildings to draw power from. Through this process, no adjustments or structures will need to be made in Manhattan to power buildings, which has poor solar potential due to its many tall buildings and air quality. In fact, in addition to the JFK Airport Park being the biggest solar energy project in Queens, it will power the first shared solar skyscraper in all of New York City.

Con Edison VP of Distributed Resource Integration Matthew Ketschke said that more than 5,500 customers rely on shared solar energy here in New York City, equivalent to about 75 total megawatts.

The JFK Airport Park plant will produce 1.8 million kilowatt hours every year. According to EnterSolar, that amount of energy would be enough clean renewable electricity almost 250 households for an entire year. The photovoltaic or PV system will avoid the more than 1.1 million pounds of carbon dioxide produced by the Bloomberg buildings alone, making the air cleaner.

“If there is one thing that residents around JFK need, and something we can all appreciate, is cleaner air,” Richards said. “It is something that this community in particular pushes for.”

Richards said that pushing towards more environmentally friendly power alternatives has been an important focus for him in recent years. Richards, who is the former chairman of the Environmental Protection Committee on the City Council, said that it especially came to his attention after hurricanes Sandy and Irene when many of the communities in his district when severely flooded.

“We can slow the effects of climate change,” Richards said. “Our reliance on fossil fuels has to end because it’s the only way communities like Rosedale and Springfield Gardens will actually have a fighting chance in the future.”

He mentioned that 70 percent of carbon emissions in New York City come from buildings. He said that two pieces of legislation have been proposed to help get the idea into the minds of those living in the community.

“One is to create a solar ombudsperson in the Department of Buildings right here in the city and to also create an officer of solar energy right here in New York City so that we can cut through a lot of the red tape that happens when individuals such as John [Phafus, developer of the JFK Airport Park] and other people in the community want to move towards solar,” Richards said.

Richards hopes that this project will be the first of many throughout the city.

“There’s not socioeconomic status that matters when a hurricane hits New York City. But we do know that communities of color are more adversely affected. Your senior citizens who may not have access to their medicine or energy to keep their food in the fridge fresh. All of these things culminating leave communities like Rosedale and Springfield Gardens in a worrisome state.”

Richards also mentioned the long term effects of the project and how it will benefit future constituents throughout the city.

“This is for our children,” Richards said. “I don’t know if I’ll be here for that storm. But I was there for the first one, where you needed a boat to get through to some people’s homes back here. We have to do everything we can to slow that now.”

Landmark Solar Project Powers Bloomberg Headquarters in Manhattan Eco Watch Solar is having another banner year. While 2014 already smashed records, it looks like 2015 is poised for even greater growth. Last week, a report from GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association revealed that the U.S. generates enough electricity from solar to power 4.6 million homes.

Now, EnterSolar, a New York City-based solar company, has announced the launch of a landmark project in New York City—the Bloomberg-JFK Airport Park Solar Project. The large-scale solar photovoltaic project allows Bloomberg to partially power its global headquarters in Manhattan and its downtown data center using solar energy.

“This marquis solar initiative is a tangible demonstration of the power of partnership,” said Peyton Boswell, managing director at EnterSolar. “While Manhattan often presents challenges for solar energy, we are proud to be partnering with Bloomberg, one of the world’s most recognizable brands based here in New York, on this renewable energy project.”

The project sets a number of precedents. It’s the largest remote net metered project in New York City, and it’s also the first to use remote net metering to power a midtown Manhattan skyscraper with a remotely-sited solar PV system. Remote Net Metering (RNM), “allows sites with poor solar characteristics but significant onsite load to benefit from solar systems installed on an alternative site with excellent solar characteristics,” explains EnterSolar.

In this case, JFK Airport Park has installed a 1,500 kilowatt solar installation across three adjacent logistics facilities in Springfield Gardens, Queens.

With more than 5,500 panels, it’s the largest rooftop solar array in Queens and among the largest rooftop solar projects in the state of New York. The power generated at the airport park will be converted to energy credits and applied to Bloomberg’s offices.

On an annual basis, the project will generate 1.8 million kilowatt hours, enough electricity to power more than 244 typical homes for a year. The project is also responsible for the avoidance of almost 1.1 million pounds of CO2 emissions per year.

“We are always looking for new and innovative ways to operate more efficiently. This project makes good business sense,” said Curtis Ravenel, global head of Sustainable Business and Finance at Bloomberg. “It enables us to diversify our energy supply, reduce costs and help contribute to a cleaner, healthier New York City. The Remote Net Metering program made this possible and we plan to do more renewable energy projects like this that bring business value and benefits—including economic development and jobs—to the communities where we operate.”

RNM allows solar to be installed in more places than ever “while promoting the optimal siting of such projects with regards to the electrical transmission system,” says EnterSolar. The project was supported in part by Gov. Cuomo’s NY-Sun $1 billion initiative to “advance the scale-up of solar and move New York State closer to having a sustainable, self-sufficient solar industry.” And by all measures, the initiative has been wildly successful. The growth of solar in the state has increased more than 300 percent from 2011 to 2014, twice the rate of U.S. solar growth overall, according to EnterSolar.

“Under Governor Cuomo’s Reforming the Energy Vision, New York State continues its strong commitment to the growth of the solar industry as it scales up the adoption of this clean, renewable resource,” said John B. Rhodes, president and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. “This project is an excellent example of the use of remote net metering to offset electricity costs at a major facility that would not otherwise be able to benefit from solar.”

Exact Solar Business Profile - November 2015 In 2004, when Mark Bortman moved his family from Bucks County to Costa Rica for a year, he never dreamed that this adventure would lead him to starting his own solar energy system installation business. However, while in Costa Rica, Mark apprenticed with a pioneer in the solar industry and learned the business from the ground up.

When he returned to Yardley, he founded Exact Solar.

Today, it is the only company in the Greater Philadelphia area with extensive experience designing and installing all three major types of solar energy systems: solar electricity/photovoltaic (PV), solar water heating, and solar pool heating.

Exact Solar has installed hundreds of residential and small commercial solar energy systems in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The most common systems installed are photovoltaic systems, which reduce your need to purchase electricity from your local utility company and allow you to sell back any extra electricity generated for a credit.

Exact Solar offers different panel design options, including sleek, all-black panels that are more aesthetically pleasing.

Although Mark recognizes that solar energy won’t completely replace traditional energy sources anytime soon, it can help offset what we use in a cost-effective way.

“Once we educate people about the benefits, they realize that this technology makes a lot of sense and pays for itself,” says Mark. “Solar power is everything fossil fuels are not – no drilling, no transporting, no pollution, no greenhouse gases. Once the panels are up, they generate electricity for 40+ years using free fuel. It’s like buying a car that runs forever without ever requiring gasoline expenses. Power output is guaranteed with a manufacturer’s warranty for 25 years.”

The average cost of a residential PV system has declined by over 50% since 2010, according to recent reports from the Solar Energy Industries Association. Even with the lack of state incentives in Pennsylvania, going solar usually makes financial sense both in the short and long-term if you have a nice sunny roof or yard.

“Many of our customers in Pennsylvania are able to offset all or most of their PECO bills, leaving them cashpositive right away once their systems are up and running, thanks to no-money-down financing options,” says Dara Bortman, Mark’s wife and Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Exact Solar.

As going solar has become a popular way for home and business owners to cut their energy bills and carbon footprints, the solar industry has grown exponentially. Exact Solar has also grown with the industry, and now has a team of five employees who provide a personal level of customer service that sets the company apart from other solar installers.

Exact Solar takes care of all permitting and paperwork, and uses only top-quality products with industry-leading warranties. The 30% Federal Tax Credit that can be used toward a system is set to expire at the end of 2016, creating a rush to take advantage of solar savings. Exact Solar is ready to take on the challenge, and won’t compromise what the company is best known for by its customers: personal, quality customer service.

Exact Solar has not only received dozens of five-star reviews from its customers on Angie’s List and SolarReviews.com, but has also been named to Solar Power World’s list of the Top 500 North American Solar Contractors for two consecutive years, landing the company an esteemed spot among the largest solar contractors on the continent.

It also proudly earned the 2014 Best of Philly® Award for Solar Panel Installations. To learn more about a solar energy system, contact Exact Solar at 215-621-8353 or visit www.exactsolar.com.

Electric Cars are Here to Stay!

Not so long ago, electric cars were seen as an inconvenient fad for only the most environmentally conscious consumers on the road. But as increasingly practical, affordable, and aesthetically appealing models make their way onto the market, Americans are realizing that electric cars are here to stay – and they make sense.

The same can be said about solar energy systems. Going solar used to be a luxury of the wealthy, but the cost of an average residential solar photovoltaic (PV) system is half of what it was just five years ago.

And much like electric cars are becoming more luxurious, solar panels are becoming sleeker. When consumers consider investing in an electric car or a solar energy system, the incentives often include cutting both their energy costs and carbon footprints.

This is what makes an electric car and a solar PV system the perfect pair.

Opting for an electric car will cut out the gas station, but it is easy to forget that the need to plug it in will increase the electric bill. However, charging an electric car is much cheaper than filling up the gas tank.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas currently costs an average of $2.23 per gallon in Pennsylvania, while an “eGallon,� or the amount of electricity equivalent to a gallon of gas, costs a Pennsylvania resident an average of $1.29.

Investing in an electric car can make inflated gas prices irrelevant, but increasing electricity costs are still looming.

Installing a solar PV system can provide the energy needed to charge an electric car, and even cut or eliminate monthly electric bills.

Exosun pursues its international expansion and opens a subsidiary in Brazil Exosun SAS and Ecoluz Part. SA form a joint venture to offer their clients locally manufactured solar tracking systems and a full range of associated engineering services Exosun Brazil, based in Salvador (Bahia), is a joint venture between Exosun, a Brazilian group, leader in energy services. The two companies teamed up to offer their clients, international and local EPCs and IPPs, the fastest and most efficient global solutions to maximize solar plant returns. Exosun contributes its know-how in solar tracking and Ecoluz its 27 years of expertise in energy engineering services in Brazil, as well as its local experience in PV plants.

Exosun Brazil will commercialize and supply solar tracking systems, along with engineering support services covering the complete life cycle of a solar plant, from the project design phase up to tracker installation, commissioning, and O&M. As a fabless company, Exosun also brings its unique ability to transfer its tracker technology to qualified local component manufacturing companies, in order to always deliver on-time with the shortest and most efficient supply chain. Exosun has developed partnerships with Brazilian manufacturers to ensure local high quality production of at least 80% of its tracker value, in full alignment with Brazilian local content expectations. As a result, Exosun Brazil’s customers will be able to benefit from advantageous financing programs set up for the solar industry by the BNDES (Brazilian National Development Bank), including the FINAME.

With this local establishment in collaboration with an experienced Brazilian solar energy specialist, Exosun is now ready to serve the booming Brazilian market which kicked off last year with a first national call for tenders for utility-scale PV projects, totaling 889 MW, followed by a second round of 839 MW in August 2015, and a third before the end of the year.

“In this country with high solar irradiation levels, combined with a strong governmental will to develop renewable energy sources, there is a significant market for solar trackers. It was therefore essential for us to establish a subsidiary in Brazil,” commented Exosun President Frédéric Conchy. “We’re thrilled to partner with Ecoluz, a renowned Brazilian energy efficiency specialist that constructed the first ground-mounted PV plant in Brazil.

Together we will be able to optimally serve our customers based in Brazil with advanced solar tracking solutions tailored to their needs.”

“We are delighted to announce this partnership with Exosun. The Brazilian PV market has received a considerable boost this year. It is now vital for us to secure a strategic position in order to participate as leading players in this growth," said Luiz Carlos Lima, CEO of Ecoluz. "Our complementary expertise allows a successful approach of the market and could not have started at a better time. Exosun Brazil will be able to offer its clients a high quality, local content compliant tracking system along with associated services, guaranteeing optimal solar plant performance."

Exosun to unveil a perfected version of its Exotrack HZ single-axis solar tracker at Solar Power International San Francisco (USA) - September 10, 2015. At the occasion of Solar Power International, Exosun is launching a new version of its Exotrack HZ single-axis solar tracker. On the company’s booth 5510, visitors will be able to take an up-close look at the Exotrack HZ® v2 which has been engineered to further reduce overall costs and delivery lead times, offering an LCOE-friendly solution for utility-scale solar plants.

Read more The system’s intelligent design evolution, which integrates self grounded module clamps, significantly minimizes installation costs and time, representing less than 400 man-hours per MW. Exotrack HZ® v2 offers fewer foundations than the market average and the market’s most generous installation tolerances.

Thanks to its short rows, Exotrack HZ® v2 smoothly follows undulated topography, drastically decreasing land grading works. Furthermore, optimized DC wire management allows to reduce wiring costs by 50% compared to other single-axis trackers.

What’s more, its linked-row architecture and grease-free, balanced structure make it an extremely reliable solar tracking system, reducing O&M actions to an absolute minimum for 25 years. Its unique centralized control system can now pilot up to 10 MWp of trackers and allows on-site or remote actions on the trackers thereby drastically reducing frequency of site visits.

Exotrack HZ v2 is delivered with an efficient robotic module cleaning solution. With reduced human intervention and its capacity to clean without water, the system offers increased cleaning performance at a low cost.

While maintaining the highest quality standards, this new version now also allows Exosun to propose a ‘local content’ compliant solar tracking solution to meet local manufacturing requirements in countries such as South Africa and Brazil.

Highly flexible, Exotrack HZ® v2 is a genuine revenue booster for utility-scale solar plant owners and developers.

Firestone Releases 2014 Sustainability Report Firestone Building Products Releases 2014 Sustainability Report Company demonstrates continued commitment to providing meaningful, eco-friendly options INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 27, 2015) – Firestone Building Products Company, LLC today released its 2014 Sustainability Report. The annual report provides a comprehensive review of the company’s many ongoing sustainable manufacturing and business processes, as well as the environmental implications of its product portfolio, demonstrating year-over-year leadership and progress toward the company’s commitment to operate responsibly.

“At Firestone Building Products, we are working continuously to ensure a healthy environment for current and future generations from ‘Roots to Rooftops’, and this report reflects our progress and efforts against that goal,” said Timothy Dunn, President, Firestone Building Products. “We are proud of the progress we have made, and look forward to continuing to ingrain our culture of environmental stewardship in everything we do, from responsible manufacturing to improving the sustainability of the communities where we work and live.”

The report details Firestone’s progress, activities and achievements through two scopes: social and governance, and environmental. Aligned with parent company Bridgestone Corporation’s One Team, One Planet sustainability platform, the 2014 report describes the company’s overarching program and focuses on three major environmental objectives: being in harmony with nature, valuing natural resources and reducing CO2 emissions.

Firestone teammates are the foundation of the company’s innovation and accomplishments. With a committed focus on diversity, health, safety and emergency preparedness, Firestone guides employees to realize corporate goals. This empowers employees to improve communities, revitalize local environments and support and grow local economies through financial contributions and volunteerism.

Firestone Names New Vice President of Roofing Sales Firestone Building Products Names New Vice President of Roofing Sales Anthony Salvatore brings strong sales record to Firestone INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 19, 2015) – Firestone Building Products Company, LLC (Firestone), recently announced the appointment of a new vice president to its executive team. As vice president of roofing sales, Anthony Salvatore will lead sales efforts for the group, managing sales team operations and resources to deliver profitable sales growth.

“Anthony brings a proven track record of leadership to Firestone and a talent for maximizing sales team efficiencies and developing strategic business partnerships,” said Timothy Dunn, president, Firestone Building Products. “A strong sales

organization is vital to the growth and success of any business. We are confident that under his leadership, Firestone’s customer relationships and roofing business will flourish.”

Salvatore’s experience driving incremental share growth and maximizing return on asset allocation and growth in profitable segments will be instrumental as Firestone moves forward as an industry leader.

Most recently, Salvatore served as regional vice president of U.S. wholesale sales (professional products) division at Moen Incorporated, where he led the team that redesigned the structure of the sales organization. Salvatore advanced his career while at Moen, holding various sales management positions with increasing responsibility, including senior strategic account manager, senior director and vice president of retail sales. He began his sales career at Georgia Pacific selling multiple products, including Georgia Pacific DensDeck® roofing products.

Salvatore earned his Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan

FIRST SOLAR, INC. ANNOUNCES THIRD QUARTER 2015 FINANCIAL RESULTS ●

Record Quarterly net sales of $1.3 billion

●

Record Quarterly GAAP earnings per fully diluted share of $3.41

●

Cash and marketable securities of $1.8 billion, net cash of $1.5 billion

●

Affirms 2015 EPS guidance of $4.30 to $4.50

●

Record 1.7GWdc of new bookings; Record annual bookings of 3.1GWdc year-to-date

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced financial results for the third quarter of 2015 following preliminary results issued on October 29, 2015. The Company has completed its analysis of the previously announced discrete income tax matter related to a foreign jurisdiction and has filed its complete Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. The Company is revising previously issued financial statements for the periods presented in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to properly record a liability associated with an uncertain tax position related to income of a foreign subsidiary. The revisions to the financial statements resulted in a $36.0 million decrease to accumulated earnings as of December 31, 2014. Additionally, these revisions will be reflected at the time the financial statement for annual and interim periods, and summary financial information, are published in the future. See "Revision of Previously Issued Financial Statements" in Note 1. "Basis of Presentation" to our condensed consolidated financial statements in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for more information.

First Solar's third quarter 2015 net sales, gross margin and ending cash balances were all unchanged from the preliminary results issued previously. Earnings per fully diluted share increased to $3.41, as compared to the preliminary results.

The Company also affirmed the updated 2015 guidance provided in the preliminary earnings press release.

2015 Guidance Update

Net Sales

Gross Margin %1

Current

$3.5B to $3.6B

24% to 25%

Operating Expenses1

$395M to $405M

Operating Income1

$450M to $490M

Effective Tax Rate

4% to 6%

Earnings per Share1

$4.30 to $4.50

Net Cash Balance2

$1.3B to $1.4B

Capital Expenditures

Working Capital3

Shipments

$175M to $200M

$1.1B to $1.2B

2.8GW to 2.9GW

1- Includes $80M benefit ($70M Gross Margin, $10M Opex) for a reduction in EOL obligation. EPS impact is $0.60 2- Cash & Marketable securities less debt at end of 2015 3- Expected increase in working capital from December 31, 2014 About First Solar, Inc. First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced module and system technology. The Company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

For First Solar Investors This release contains forward-looking statements which are made pursuant to safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include statements, among other things, concerning: effects on our financial statements and guidance resulting from the pending tax matter described in this release, including our assessment of the likelihood and amount of penalties that may be imposed on us (which penalties, if any, could cause the estimated financial impact to be significantly greater than the estimate provided in this release); our business strategy, including anticipated trends and developments in and management plans for our business and the markets in which we operate; future financial results, operating results, revenues, gross margin, operating expenses, operating income, effective tax rate, earnings per share, net cash balance, capital expenditures, working capital, shipments, products, projected costs (including estimated future module collection and recycling costs), warranties, solar module efficiency and balance of systems

cost reduction roadmaps, restructuring, product reliability, investments in unconsolidated affiliates and capital expenditures; our ability to continue to reduce the cost per watt of our solar modules; our ability to reduce the costs to construct PV solar power systems; research and development programs and our ability to improve the conversion efficiency of our solar modules; sales and marketing initiatives; and competition. These forward-looking statements are often characterized by the use of words such as "estimate," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "plan," "intend," "believe," "forecast," "foresee," "likely," "may," "should," "goal," "target," "might," "will," "could," "predict," "continue" and the negative or plural of these words and other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and our projections about future events. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements for any reason. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the matters discussed in Item 1A: "Risk Factors," of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other reports filed with the SEC.

FIRST SOLAR, INC. ANNOUNCES PRELIMINARY THIRD QUARTER 2015 FINANCIAL RESULTS ●

Record Quarterly Net sales of $1.3 billion

●

Preliminary Quarterly GAAP earnings per fully diluted share of $3.38

●

Cash and marketable securities of $1.8 billion, net cash of $1.5 billion

●

Raise preliminary 2015 EPS guidance to $4.30 to $4.50

●

Record 1.7GWdc of new bookings; Record annual bookings of 3.1GWdc year-to-date

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced preliminary financial results for the third quarter of 2015. The Company expects to release complete condensed consolidated financial results and file its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q on or prior to November 9th, 2015.

The Company is issuing preliminary results while it completes its analysis of a discrete income tax matter related to a foreign jurisdiction. The Company believes that based on its preliminary analysis, the tax matter could have an adverse financial impact of up to $40 million. Preliminary results are being issued pending the determination of the financial impact of this matter, if any.

Preliminary Financial Results Net sales were $1.3 billion in the quarter, an increase of $375 million from the second quarter of 2015. The increase in net sales from the prior quarter resulted primarily from initial revenue recognition on the sale of a majority interest in the partially constructed Desert Stateline project. In addition revenue increased due to higher third party module sales and an increase in systems revenue across multiple projects.

The Company reported preliminary third quarter GAAP earnings per fully diluted share of $3.38, compared to $0.93 in the prior quarter. The sequential increase in net income was due to higher gross margins associated with the majority sale of the Desert

Stateline project, improvements in systems project costs and a decrease in our module collection and recycling obligation, which reduced cost of sales by $70 million and operating expenses by$10 million.

Cash and marketable securities at the end of the third quarter were approximately $1.8 billion, an increase of approximately $34 million compared to the prior quarter. Cash flows from operations were $21 million in the third quarter. The increase in cash and marketable securities during the quarter was primarily due to cash received related to the majority sale of the Desert Stateline project, partially offset by continued project construction on balance sheet.

"We had tremendous execution in the third quarter from both a financial and bookings perspective," said Jim Hughes, CEO of First Solar. "We have now exceeded our book-to-bill target for the year, booked over 1GWdc of volume with deliveries after 2016, achieved strong quarterly earnings and have significantly raised our full year earnings guidance. We remain confident in our long term strategy and our ability to execute successfully."

The Company also provided preliminary updated guidance for 2015. The following guidance is preliminary pending the determination of the financial impact of the tax matter discussed previously.

2015 Guidance Update

Prior

Current

$3.5B to $3.6B

Unchanged

21% to 22%

24% to 25%

Operating Expenses1

$415M to $425M

$395M to $405M

Operating Income1

$330M to $370M

$450M to $490M

Effective Tax Rate4

2% to 5%

4% to 6%

Earnings per Share1,4

$3.30 to $3.60

$4.30 to $4.50

Net Cash Balance2, 4

$1.2B to $1.4B

$1.3B to $1.4B

Capital Expenditures

$175M to $200M

Unchanged

$1.1B to $1.3B

$1.1B to $1.2B

Net Sales

Gross Margin %1

Working Capital3

Shipments

2.8GW to 2.9GW

Unchanged

1-

Includes $80M benefit ($70M Gross Margin, $10M Opex) for a reduction in EOL obligation. EPS impact is $0.60

2-

Cash & Marketable securities less debt at end of 2015

3-

Expected increase in working capital from December 31, 2014

4-

Excludes impact of up to $40 million related to pending tax matter

About First Solar, Inc. First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced module and system technology. The Company's integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar's renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visit www.firstsolar.com.

FLS Energy Continues Expansion of Solar Energy Portfolio in North Carolina FLS Energy Begins Construction on 33 Megawatts of Utility Scale Solar in N.C.

Asheville, N.C., August 4, 2015 - FLS Energy has closed financing and begun construction on 33 megawatts of utility-scale solar farms across seven locations in North Carolina. The solar energy plants will produce approximately 50 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year or enough energy to power over 4600 average U.S. homes.

The portfolio of projects is being constructed as a bundle and will be financed by Key Bank. “We are very pleased to have played a leading role in the financing of FLS Energy’s solar portfolio,” said Andrew Redinger, managing director and head of KeyBanc Capital Markets' Utilities, Power & Renewable Energy Group. “The financing of this type of projects demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and renewable projects with solid fundamentals.”

The portfolio of projects is the fourth phase of approximately 250 megawatts of solar energy facilities FLS Energy will be building in 2015. “We are very excited to have a new partner in Key Bank and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship” said Dale Freudenberger, CEO of FLS Energy. “This portfolio of projects is another example of how the North Carolina solar industry continues to create high paying jobs while making our state the emerging clean tech hub of the eastern U.S.”

FLS Energy Begins Construction on 42 Megawatts of Utility Scale Solar in N.C. Asheville, N.C., January 8, 2015 FLS Energy has closed financing and begun construction on 42 megawatts of utility-scale solar farms across seven locations in North Carolina. The solar energy plants will produce approximately 64 million kilowatt hours of electricity per year or enough energy to power over 6000 average U.S. homes.

The portfolio of projects is being financed as a bundle and will be the first phase of an expected 200 megawatts to be constructed by FLS Energy in 2015. Four of the projects will be located within Duke Energy territory and three projects within Dominion North Carolina Power territory. The electricity generated by the solar energy systems will be acquired through 15 year power purchase agreements.

“To have a bundle of projects under construction this early in the year truly shows how our industry has matured in North Carolina,” said Dale Freudenberger, CEO of FLS Energy. “We expect to have more than 300 construction workers on the ground in the month of January and that number is just a fraction of the jobs being created by the solar industry in our state.”

About FLS Energy FLS Energy is a full service solar energy provider that owns and operates a portfolio of solar energy assets throughout the U.S. Our development team takes a project from conception to commissioning and offers complete in-house system design, engineering, construction,

financing and turnkey project development. FLS Energy’s mission is to make solar mainstream.

We are committed to building a scalable and sustainable business model that values the contributions of each of our employees while remaining good stewards of the world in which we live.

Solar Power World Ranks Florida Solar One a Top 400 Solar Installer The Florida Solar Panel market continues to grow with twenty-seven Florida based solar energy companies making the Solar Power World’s top 400 solar panel installer list. Florida Solar One ranked among the top in the state and nation in 2014 with a record setting year of installations despite Florida’s historically low electrical rates, no renewable energy portfolio and 3

rd

party financing remaining illegal in the Sunshine State.

“People want solar energy in Florida and we have never been busier” states Florida Solar One’s President and qualifier Ray Johnson. “Utility rebates and federal tax credits were once prime drivers of the market but, the utilityrebates have now expired and yet the market remains strong, growing and costs have never been lower”.

The cost of solar energy systems has been trending downwards for the past five years and as a result Florida solar panels are a more economically sound choice than traditional fuel generators for back up power options. Persons and businesses in the Florida market want energy options and solutions when traditional utility power goes down like it often does when hurricane force winds, driving rains and flooding can knock power out for days or weeks.

When the power goes out people desperate for fuel are often faced with closed gas stations that are unable to pump fuel without electricity. Those stations that are operational tend to run out of fuel quickly, have long lines and compete with each other for access to fuel truck deliveries. People with solar power systems do not face these issues making solar panels a good choice for those looking for power security and to avoid access to fuel challenges when the utility does go down.

“Begin recognized by Solar Power World is an honor and speaks to the quality of services provided by Florida Solar One. When people choose a contractor to work in their home and businesses they demandaccredited, highly ranked and reviewed companies to be certain their system will be the best and outlast the harsh conditions found in Florida and the Caribbean. The bottom line is people want experienced installers and market leaders” shared Johnson.

US Solar to Present at South Florida Association of Environmental Professionals June Luncheon Local, Florida-based solar company US Solar, will be presenting at the South Florida Association of Environmental Professionals (SFAEP) June Luncheon. The luncheon will take place Thursday, June 18, and will focus on the

financial and environmental benefits of commercial scale solar for Florida businesses. The luncheon will also provide a forum for attending professionals to discuss solar policy issues that the Sunshine State is currently facing.

The topic of solar has been generating a lot of buzz nationally, and Florida is being referred to as “ground zero” by many. Between climate change debates, utility rebates, net metering, tax credits, and a large ballot initiative focused on the November 2016 election, there are many relevant solar topics that business owners and professionals need to be informed about. US Solar’s advanced solar training college US Solar Institute (USSI) has historically been a source of information on topics such as these, and continues to serve as a knowledge resource moving forward.

“The topic of solar is no longer an unaffordable dream or fleeting thought for many business professionals in Florida.” Said Ray Johnson of US Solar and Florida Solar One. “Going solar is a financial decision as well as an environmental decision, and the logic is sound in both areas. It is more important than ever for business owners and professionals to educate themselves about solar and what it can mean for them.”

The session that US Solar will be presenting is titled “Ending the Solar Eclipse in the Sunshine State”. The luncheon will be held in the Florida Department of Transportation Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale from 11:45am to 1pm. The event is free for SFAEP members and is a “bring your own lunch” format. Those who are interested in attending or getting involved with South Florida Association of Environmental Professionals can contact SFAEP President Stephanie Voris, PWS, and svoris@bellsouth.net.

About US Solar Institute: US Solar is a globally diversified solar energy corporation with headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and partners around the world. US Solar is dedicated to comprehensive solar education and is licensed by the Florida Department of Education. US Solar provides certified NABCEP exam preparation courses, full PV diploma courses, online courses through MyUSSI.com, and continuing education courses across the globe.

US Solar also offers consulting services, construction management, engineering, and equipment solutions for virtually any sized project or system need.

About South Florida Association of Environmental Professionals: SFAEP (www.sfaep.org) is an organization of professionals practicing environmental planning, engineering, science, and law in South Florida. They hold monthly luncheons (along with other events throughout the year) that offer opportunities to interact and network, as well as to listen to a guest speaker discuss relevant and interesting topics. These monthly luncheons alternate between various venues in Miami Dade and Broward Country. SFAEP also hosts an annual conference every November and a holiday party every December. All members of the environmental professional community in South Florida are welcome and encouraged to participate.

Dual-Tilt Mounting Systems for Low-Slope Roofs Module-mounting strategies have evolved over time. In the early to mid 2000s, for example, it was common for designers to tilt modules at latitude. This approach optimized specific yield (kWh/kW), ensuring that the

modules were as productive as possible. This design approach made sense when the modules constituted the most expensive part of a PV system. As module costs have declined, however, so have module tilt angles.

The industry movement toward lower tilt angles was first evident on commercial rooftops. To optimize energy production in this space-constrained setting, designers have long opted to reduce array tilt and tighten array spacing to fit more modules per square foot. For example, PowerLight (now SunPower) began volume production on its flat-tilt PowerGuard solution for commercial rooftops in September 1999. Although this high-power窶電ensity design approach predates the era of low-cost PV modules, it is especially well suited to optimizing financial performance at the system level rather than specific yield at the module level.

Dual-tilt mounting systems are a continuation of this trend in low-slope rooftop applications. Lower-cost PV modules incentivize designs that maximize roof coverage ratios and installed PV capacity while minimizing shade and soiling effects. This design philosophy gave birth to dual-tilt mounting systems that allow for highpower densities on rooftops with minimal self-shading as well as arrays that are self-cleaning during rain events. However, since south-facing PV arrays have been the de facto industry standard on commercial rooftops in North America for many years, system designers may initially be confused by dual-tilt mounting approaches or even suspicious of vendor performance claims.

In this article, we analyze the pros and cons of dual-tilt mounting systems for low-slope roofs, providing quantitative examples of how this design strategy differs from traditional approaches. We illustrate how to use an economic model to evaluate the financial performance of dual-tilt versus south-facing designs. Based on these results, we describe how and where designers can deploy dual-tilt systems most effectively. In the event that this design approach is ideal for projects you are developing, we provide a brief overview of vendors offering dual-tilt mounting systems in North America.

Evaluating the Dual-Tilt Value Proposition The first step in evaluating dual-tilt mounting is to understand the trade-offs associated with this design approach, some of which Table 1 details. Some of the potential benefits that vendors tout (such as increased power density) are self-evident, whereas designers need to model and analyze others (such as time of delivery [TOD] gains). Most important, a decrease in specific yield relative to south-facing arrays tempers the potential benefits of dual-tilt arrays.

Power density. Traditional south-facing fixed-tilt mounting systems for low-slope roofs require a gap between rows of modules to prevent interrow shading. The width of this gap represents a trade-off between power density and module productivity. Interrow spacing typically ranges between 1 and 3 feet on rooftop systems. It is much larger on ground-mounted systems, which tend to have tall array tables.

By contrast, dual-tilt mounting systems orient modules in a “wave” pattern that inherently mitigates selfshading effects. Since there is no need for additional interrow shading allowances, most dual-tilt systems simply have rows at regular intervals to accommodate system maintenance. In most cases, dual-tilt mounts have a narrow gap only at the peak of each ridge to facilitate airflow around the modules and equalize pressure differentials associated with wind loads.

As a result of this fundamental design difference, dual-tilt arrays typically have a core ground coverage ratio (not counting obstructions or walkways) of approximately 0.9. By comparison, south-facing fixed-tilt arrays typically have core ground coverage ratios in the 0.5–0.8 range. This means that designers can increase system capacity 15%–35% by using a dual-tilt rather than a traditional south-facing design approach.

Specific yield. While power is an important variable in terms of a PV system’s economic performance, reduced energy yield per unit of power offsets capacity gains with a dual-tilt array. Though dual-tilt arrays are less sensitive to azimuth than traditional fixed-tilt arrays, vendors typically advertise these products as eastwest mounting solutions. Not surprisingly, an array that has half of its modules facing east and half facing west will generate fewer kilowatt-hours per kilowatt than an array that has all of its modules facing south.

This reduction in specific yield is a simple function of the lower average annual irradiance in the plane of the dual-tilt array.

The plane-of-array irradiance reductions associated with dual-tilt mounting vary based on site latitude and reference array tilt. As illustrated in Table 2, the farther a dual-tilt installation is from the equator, the larger the performance penalty relative to a south-facing array. The amount that an east-west array underperforms relative to a south-facing array also varies based on the array tilt of the reference design. For the cities we analyzed in Table 2, an east-west array underperforms a south-facing array with a 10° tilt by 6%–10%; that performance penalty increases to 9%–16% in relation to a reference array with a 20° tilt.

In addition to plane-of-array irradiance losses, dual-tilt mounting systems also experience secondary irradiance losses, including reflective and low-light losses. Reflective losses increase when sunlight strikes a module at a shallower incidence angle. Since an east-west array experiences shallower sun angles than a south-facing array, its reflective losses increase by 0.5%–1%. In addition, PV modules are less efficient at lower light levels, and an east-west array experiences an additional 0.1%–0.3% of loss due to low-light losses.

Taken together, the secondary irradiance losses in an east-west array account for system losses of roughly 1% compared to a south-facing array.

Dual-tilt mounting systems sacrifice irradiance by design. While improved power density is the most obvious trade-off, this design approach also has a number of other system-level benefits. There are significant benefits associated with the aerodynamic performance of an east-west array, and there may be additional benefits associated with the time of year or day that a dual-tilt array produces energy or power.

Material and labor costs. Many low-slope mounting systems use a combination of wind deflectors and ballast blocks to resist wind loads. By contrast, each module in a dual-tilt system acts as a wind deflector for the module at its back. This means that dual-tilt mounting systems eliminate both the labor and the material costs associated with installing traditional wind deflectors.

Dual-tilt designs can reduce total component counts further by sharing components between rows. In addition, the back-to-back rows of modules tend to both reduce wind loads and distribute uplift forces.

Because dual-tilt systems are both aerodynamic and structurally interconnected, they typically require fewer ballast blocks compared to traditional fixed-tilt arrays. Since there are fewer parts to install and the rows share some parts, dual-tilt systems also improve installation efficiencies in the field.

Dual-tilt mounting systems can reduce material and labor costs compared to traditional low-slope mounting systems in a few ways. While cost savings vary based on product platform, crew experience and basis of comparison, our interviews with vendors—all of which sell both dual-tilt and conventional south-facing mounting systems—indicate that dual-tilt solutions offer cost savings of $0.02–$0.07 per watt.

Weight. Another benefit of improved aerodynamic performance and reduced ballast requirements is that rail-based dual-tilt arrays weigh less per unit of power than conventional ballasted fixed-tilt arrays. This may allow integrators to deploy a ballasted solution on low-weight– bearing rooftops, such as warehouse roofs. It may also allow for the installation of more PV capacity than would be possible with a traditional ballasted solution. In these weight-constrained situations, designers must pay careful attention to roof-loading limits.

While dual-tilt arrays weigh less than traditional fixed-tilt arrays on a pounds-per-kilowatt basis, they also allow designers to install more kilowatts per square foot. As a result of this increased power density, some dual-tilt solutions or configurations could actually increase net roof loading on a pounds-per-square-foot basis.

Energy production. While dual-tilt arrays have a lower specific yield than comparable south-facing arrays, improved power densities offset these irradiance losses. As a result, dual-tilt arrays can generate more energy per rooftop than south-facing arrays. Figure 1, for example, provides a comparison of installed capacity, specific yield and total energy production in a space-constrained application for an east-west versus

a south-facing array configuration, assuming that interrow spacing for the south-facing arrays varies based on latitude.

Time of delivery. Simply comparing total energy generation between a dual-tilt and a south-facing array does not always tell the whole story. As illustrated in Figure 2a, an east-west array can produce more energy on summer afternoons than an equivalent south-facing array on a low-slope rooftop. Further, the total energy an east-west array produces during summer months compares favorably to the output of a south-facing array.

Since east-west arrays perform well in the summer and generate more energy later in the day, they potentially provide more value than a south-facing array under TOD rate structures. These potential benefits vary based on how the utility has defined its TOD periods and factors (multipliers). In a TOD regime weighted specifically toward summer afternoons, an east-west array can generate 2%–3% more value over the course of a year than a south-facing array with a 20° tilt. In a TOD regime that also emphasizes on-peak (afternoon) production in the winter, an east-west array might provide little to no additional benefit.

Figure 2b provides examples of these scenarios. The SCE 2006 TOD and PG&E A6 rate structures, which specifically emphasize on-peak production in the summer, are favorable for east-west arrays. The PG&E 2006 TOD rate structure, however, provides a negligible net benefit, since it also includes an on-peak multiplier in winter, when east-west productivity suffers.

Inverter limiting. In the previous examples, we intentionally used conservative design assumptions, limiting the dc-to-ac sizing ratio of the systems we modeled to a maximum of 1.2 to minimize inverter power limiting.

In practice, however, integrators are increasingly deploying systems with high dc-to-ac ratios. (See “Optimizing Array-to-Inverter Power Ratio,”SolarPro, October/November 2014.) In high-loading scenarios, the peak of the inverter output power curve is more likely to be clipped at peak-production times of the day or year when the array is capable of delivering more power than the inverter can export.

Because a dual-tilt array is not pointed toward the equator, it is less likely to operate at high-power levels than a south-facing array, which means that the peak of its power curve is lower. This squatter production curve means that the inverter power-limiting losses are lower for a dual-tilt array, assuming the same dc-toac sizing ratio. As detailed in Figure 3, a 1.35 array-to-inverter ratio results in inverter power limiting losses of 1.5% for a south-facing array versus 0.5% for an east-west array. Put another way, the dc-to-ac ratio for an east-west array can be 5%–10% larger than that of a south-facing array and still have the same inverter power-limiting losses. Therefore, designers can use a dual-tilt approach to reduce either inverter powerlimiting losses or inverter capacity.

Our modeling results support vendor claims that dual-tilt arrays can make more efficient use of inverter capacity. However, we found no evidence that an inverter itself operates any more efficiently—based on voltage or loading levels—when connected to an east-west array.

Economic Analysis Economic performance at the system level is the ultimate measure of value for a dual-tilt mounting system.

On the one hand, designers can use a dual-tilt mounting system to increase array capacity by 15%–35%. On the other, a dual-tilt design approach nominally decreases specific yield by 4%–12%, depending on location, though TOD and inverter power-limiting factors may offset some of these irradiance yield losses. In addition, hardware utilization improvements, including potential inverter cost reductions, may reduce installed costs by $0.02–$0.08 per watt. Given the complexity of the factors involved, we need to use a site- and systemspecific economic model to holistically understand the impact of using a dual-tilt array versus a conventional south-facing array.

Table 3 compares key economic indicators for two potential array designs for a 43,000-square-foot rooftop in Charlotte, North Carolina. To define the reference systems, we used Folsom Lab’s HelioScope software to calculate the array capacity for a south-facing PV array and for an east-west–oriented PV array, assuming a 10° tilt for both systems. Based on its ability to perform component-level analyses, we also used HelioScope to model energy production for these two systems. After defining system energy production, we used the System Advisor Model (SAM) from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to model economic performance over time. For the inputs to the SAM model, we assumed fixed costs of $0.81 per watt, marginal costs of $1.64 per watt, an energy value of $0.15/kWh, a 7% discount rate and a useful system life of 25 years.

Looking at the data in Table 3, it is striking that an east-west design increases system capacity by 32%, yet increases total cost by only 20%. The explanation for this is improved fixed-cost amortization. There are always fixed costs associated with deploying a PV array. These include sales, design, administration, management and permitting costs, in addition to the costs of acquiring an interconnection agreement or executing a power purchase agreement. Even within a single line item for labor, such as electrical installation, some overhead components are relatively independent of system size, such as travel to the site and site preparation. To the extent that we increase system capacity, we decrease these fixed costs on a dollars-perwatt basis. Further, if the smaller-capacity system was already profitable, then increasing capacity results in more profit for all parties in the value chain, including the customer, the system integrator and the equipment vendors.

In this example, the real value of the east-west design option is that it increases the project’s net present value (NPV), which compares the up-front investment costs to the present value of future revenues. While this 51% increase in NPV is significant, the east-west array actually has a slightly lower levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The LCOE is lower because reduced specific yield largely offsets the better fixed-cost amortization.

Effective Deployment While some projects may benefit from a dual-tilt design approach, others may not. So where and how can designers deploy these systems most effectively? The key considerations fall into three main categories: site selection, system design and operations.

SITE SELECTION Deploying dual-tilt mounting systems effectively requires knowing where these systems provide the most benefit and where they present additional design or installation challenges. Space-constrained roofs, for example, are well suited to a dual-tilt design approach. However, roofs with a large number of obstructions may make this design approach more challenging. Site latitude and array azimuth can also sway design decisions.

Space-constrained roofs. At many commercial and industrial sites, the customer’s electrical loads far exceed the power-generating capability of the rooftop. Where this is the case, a dual-tilt design approach is generally beneficial, since it increases the rooftop power density and productivity in terms of energy production per unit of area. If an array is not space constrained, a dual-tilt design is more difficult to justify. Such scenarios includes sites where electrical load or customer budget rather than available roof area limit array capacity.

Roof obstructions. Most dual-tilt mounting systems require that designers add modules two at a time to limit wind loads. This can create problems on some rooftops. If a dual-tilt mounting system does not allow you to remove one module at a time to accommodate a small obstruction, then you will need to remove two modules at a time. This can make dual-tilt mounting systems comparatively less attractive on rooftops with a significant number of obstructions than on rooftops with few obstructions.

Site latitude. While the specific yield for dual-tilt arrays decreases at higher latitudes, as illustrated in Table 2, the same dynamic impacts south-facing arrays, albeit to a lesser degree. Depending on the interrow spacing of your south-facing reference system, a dual-tilt array can also significantly increase power density, which favors this design approach. Because of these opposing dynamics, it is impossible to generalize about whether a dual-tilt design approach is always better or worse based on latitude. However, designers should

bear in mind that the results of an economic analysis vary from one location to another, especially if the site latitudes are different. The magnitude of variation is significant enough that site latitude can make or break a dual-tilt design.

Array azimuth. One of the interesting characteristics of dual-tilt arrays is that their performance is relatively insensitive to changes in array azimuth. As illustrated in Figure 4, a dual-tilt array essentially produces as much energy in an east-west orientation as it does in a north-south orientation. Some designers have concerns about deploying dual-tilt arrays on roofs that do not have a south-facing azimuth, since a portion of the array will necessarily face in a northern direction. However, the relative performance of a dual-tilt array generally improves in off-azimuth applications, because standard fixed-tilt array production suffers.

Designers do need to be aware that wind loads increase when they design a dual-tilt array off azimuth.

SYSTEM DESIGN After selecting an appropriate site, consider product and system design features, both mechanical and electrical.

Tilt angle. Most dual-tilt mounting systems orient PV modules at a 10° tilt angle. Exceptions in Table 4 are Mounting Systems’ Lambda Light EW+ (10° or 15°), SolarCity’s ZS Peak solution (8°) and tenKsolar’s DUO (25° south and 16° north). All else being equal, the performance of an east-west array with an 8° tilt versus a 10° tilt is not significantly different. At the system level, the lower tilt angle may improve aerodynamics and allow lower roof loading, while the higher tilt angle may decrease soiling losses. The only real outlier in terms of array tilt angle is the DUO product line from tenKsolar, which has significantly higher tilt angles and is designed specifically for a north-south orientation. By using a matrix of series and parallel connections in its modules, tenKsolar is able to increase system shade tolerance, which allows for the platform’s unique mechanical characteristics.

Rail-based vs. non–rail-based systems. Broadly speaking, there are two categories of low-slope mounting systems: rail-based and non–rail-based systems. In a rail-based system, modules mount on top of rails that run perpendicular to the array; these rails are the roof interface and provide some structure to the mechanical system. In a non–rail-based system, modules mount on feet or posts; this configuration means that the module frame provides some structure to the mechanical system. Non–rail-based systems have cost advantages, as they minimize hardware and materials. Rail-based systems may have structural advantages in high-wind areas. To the extent that non–rail-based systems place more load on the module frame, designers need to ensure that the module is capable of withstanding this additional load.

Module-mounting points. Compared to conventional rail-based mounting systems, dual-tilt products often locate mounting points closer to the corner of the module. This is significant because a module’s maximum

permissible load allowance may vary based on mounting point location. System designers may need to verify that modules are compatible with dual-tilt mounting systems. This verification could be as simple as checking a website or contacting an applications engineer, as these mounting system vendors typically maintain an approved module list.

Inverter selection and array wiring. Dual-MPPT or multi-MPPT 3-phase string inverters are ideal for dual-tilt applications. Because these arrays face in two different directions, designers and installers need to ensure that the array is wired in a way that dedicates separate MPPT channels to these opposite array orientations.

Splitting the array between MPPT channels in this manner minimizes mismatch losses. However, it also increases design and installation complexity. For example, installers may need to use jumpers between rows to complete source circuits without mixing array orientations.

Inverter capacity. Because a dual-tilt array has a squatter power curve than a south-facing array, designers can increase the dc-to-ac ratio in these systems. This approach can reduce installed inverter capacity by as much as 5%–10%, which reduces total inverter costs on a dollars-per-watt basis.

OPERATIONS After designing the system, consider whether the dual-tilt array will present any unique challenges from a commissioning or maintenance perspective.

More and more vendors are offering dual-tilt mounting systems, which orient modules in undulating eastwest or even north-south rows. Is this the wave of the future?

Commissioning. If installers mix module orientations within the same source-circuit or MPPT zone, mismatch losses can increase by as much as 6% or 7%. While this is a relatively easy mistake to make on a dual-tilt array, it is also easy to spot with an I-V curve tracer. Therefore, the site commissioning process may call for additional I-V curve tracing.

Access paths. Because a dual-tilt design approach increases packing density on the roof, access pathways are relatively narrower or less frequent. This could increase the cost of both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities—such as module cleaning or replacement—throughout the project lifetime. Note that cleaning schedules are largely a function of array tilt and rainfall. There is no reason to assume that cleaning requirements will change based on orientation only.

Inventory management. Some vendors use many of the same parts in their dual-tilt mounting systems as in their single-tilt mounting systems, whereas others sell products with unique parts and components.

RIDING THE WAVE

In space-constrained applications, system economics favor low module-tilt angles and high rooftop-packing densities. This is especially true when module prices are low, as they have been for several years. Therefore, it behooves designers to understand the potential benefits of dual-tilt mounting systems. In the right applications, this design approach can help deliver larger and more profitable arrays, which ultimately contributes to the sustained growth of the industry.

GSAC Partners with 8minutenergy Renewables to Build Redwood Solar Farm Projects California – October 16, 2014 – 8minutenergy Renewables, LLC, the nation’s leading independent solar PV developer, today announced the signing of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreements with Gehrlicher Solar America Corp. (GSAC) for three of its solar projects located in Kern County, Calif. The 8minutenergy projects, and the associated 8minutenergy subsidiary that wholly owns them, are the 16.66 MW-ac Redcrest Solar Farm (67RK 8me), 26.66 MW-ac Hayworth Solar Farm (65HK 8me) and the 15 MW-ac Woodmere Solar Farm (87RL 8me).

The three projects, collectively known as the ‘Redwood Solar Farm,’ have signed Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) with Southern California Edison (SCE), Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and the City of Palo Alto Utilities. A single Large Generation Interconnection Agreement (LGIA) was previously signed by 8minutenergy, PG&E and the California Independent Systems Operator Corporation (CAISO).

“These EPC contracts demonstrate 8minutenergy’s ability to bring solar projects to successful conclusions,” said Martin Hermann, chief executive officer of 8minutenergy Renewables. “We look forward to working closely with Gehrlicher Solar America Corp. to build these solar facilities and to generating clean renewable energy for California households and businesses.”

“At peak construction, the three Redwood solar projects will generate approximately 250 direct and 300 indirect jobs in Kern County and contribute millions to the local economy,” said Tom Buttgenbach, president of 8minutenergy Renewables. “We are proud that the first solar projects 8minutenergy builds on its own will enable the people in the area to benefit economically as well.”

“We reviewed bids from several EPC companies,” said Steve Clark, Vice President of Engineering, Procurement and Construction, 8minutenergy Renewables. “After a rigorous due diligence process, Gehrlicher Solar America stood out due to the depth of its technical expertise, solid reputation and because it has an impressive track record. We look forward to partnering with them on the construction of these projects.”

“At 75MW-dc of capacity, Redwood Solar Farm is our largest project to date in the North America,” said Jerry Shinn, president, Gehrlicher Solar America Corp. “As a top-tier developer, we are pleased to add 8minutenergy to our expanding portfolio. Since 2011, we have experienced significant growth and continue to move up in solar EPC rankings1.”

Construction on the solar projects is scheduled to begin in December 2014, with completion and grid connection projected for June through September 2015. The scope of work for GSAC, a division of M+W Group, includes engineering, design, procurement, construction and commissioning of the three projects. 8minutenergy has contracted with First Solar for the PV modules and trackers for the projects, with installation to be executed by GSAC. 8minutenergy is separately contracting for the projects’ high voltage facilities, which will include a plant substation and a generation tie transmission line connecting to PG&E’s Lamont Substation.

The Redwood solar farms’ annual production capacity of 152 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity will produce enough renewable solar energy to serve nearly 30,000 Californians. These clean solar generation plants will displace the equivalent of approximately 176,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, which is equal to the amount that over 7 million trees would displace annually.

The solar power system for the three projects making up the Redwood Solar Farm will be comprised of state-ofthe-art solar cadmium telluride thin-film photovoltaic modules, related power electronics, and other components including an advanced tracking system that follows the sun to maximize energy production.

State Secretary Machnig: "As an importer of industrial raw materials, Germany bears a special responsibility for people and the environment in countries with extractive industries" Matthias Machnig, State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, is opening the two-day International Raw Materials Conference in the ministry today. The main issues are "sustainable raw materials policy" and "transparency in the supply chain".

State Secretary Machnig said: "Germany is one of the world's leading importers of industrial raw materials, and therefore bears a special responsibility for people and the environment in the countries with extractive industries. In order to safeguard our prosperity and competitiveness, we need imports of raw materials, chiefly for metals, energy and specific industrial minerals. Last year, we imported raw materials worth a total of approximately â‚Ź130bn. Our aim continues to be the pursuit of a sustainable raw materials policy. In the social market economy, that means reconciling commercial success, social cohesion, environmental protection and international responsibility in a long-lasting, viable balance."

International guidelines - such as those of the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development and those of the OECD - form the basis for the duty of care to be exercised by companies worldwide. In this way, the extraction of raw materials should serve sustainable development, and should not trigger any human rights violations or conflicts. The OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas have been drawn up in cooperation with a wide variety of stakeholders as part of a far-reaching initiative. For the first time, the OECD Guidelines are available in German. Small and medium-sized enterprises will find a German translation particularly useful.

The focus of the second conference day will be on the subject of responsible mining and responsibility along the supply chain. Representatives from Australia, Chile, the United States, Canada, Africa, Europe and

international organisations will discuss the current challenges involved in extracting raw materials. Some 300 guests from government, commerce, science and civil society in Germany and around the world will be participating in the event.

On 12 November, the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources will be holding a side event to present the findings of the study on "Assessing and Enhancing the Contribution of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises to Due Diligence for Responsible Mineral Supply Chains". The study shows that SMEs in particular play a key role in implementing due diligence in the handling of "conflict minerals" (tin, tantalum, tungsten, gold). This is because they provide the bulk of jobs and need help with establishing responsible supply chains for mineral raw materials so that they can implement the various management and reporting requirements.

Development of output in the goods-producing sector in September 2015 According to the Federal Statistical Office, output in the goods-producing sector fell by 1.1 % in price-, calendar- and seasonally adjusted terms in September as compared to the previous month. Industrial output declined by 1.4 % and construction sector output by 0.9 %.

This means that output in the goods-producing sector was down slightly, by 0.3 %, in the third quarter.

Construction output expanded by 0.7 %, but industrial output fell by 0.5 %. This is mainly due to the developments in intermediate goods (-0.8 %) and consumer goods (-0.9 %). There was very little change in the output of capital goods (-0.1 %).

Following the good development in the first half of the year, German industry is currently experiencing a slightly negative impact from the global economy, and particularly from the slowdown in growth in some major emerging economies. In view of the restrained development in new orders in the third quarter, companies have cut back their output to some extent. Business sentiment in the industrial sector remains good, suggesting that the slowdown will be temporary.

The Green Expo 2015 News The Green Expo 2015 News Mexico welcomed Solis new three phase inverters 20 to 36k (8 strings/4 MPPT/7" color LCD) that satisfy the needs of the qualified and non-qualified consumers with the new energy policy in Mexico. In this way, Solis is increasing its Pv inverters family in Mexico, becoming successful within residential , commercial and industrial markets with a notable growth in the number of projects under 10 MW. Que viva MĂŠxico !

Solar Power International 2015 News Solar Power International 2015 News

Ginlong (Solis) exhibited at Solar Power International, the largest solar trade show in North America, from September 14th -17th in Anaheim, CA USA. Ginlong presented the industry first 4 MPPT Solis 36kW three phase string Inverter at the show.

Ginlong management team met with the executives from top solar companies to discuss our long-term strategic partnerships. Since achieving UL1741 certification in 2009, Ginlong has developed a one-stop shop localized Solis inverter solution for the US market, covering solar projects from several kW to 20MW. Ginlong Solis is the first inverter that is 3rd party qualified by DNV GL and one of the few listed on the approved vendor list of major solar financing companies. Elegant looking Ginlong Solis inverter are displayed at the booths of our distribution partners.

Ginlong Solis booth attracted many decision makers to discuss future collaborations. Ginlong is partnering with top solar companies to build a high quality global inverter brand, with superior reliability, outstanding energy harvest, elegant design with affordable pricing.

Apple Will Solar Power Singapore At the start of next year, Apple will officially be providing 100% of its factory’s power via solar and other renewables in Singapore. This will be achieved via a combination of both rooftop solar, as well as off-site PPA (Power Purchase Agreement).Such an achievement will mark it as the first company in Singapore to go 100% reliant upon renewable energy.

Some 800 panels are currently being mounted on the buildings which will account for 1.1 MW of clean, renewable energy. The additional 40GW of power needed will be via the PPA in order to make this completely reliant on renewables.This marks a continuing trend of huge corporations taking climate change and clean energy seriously.

Following in the footsteps of Facebook, which we talked about in our post onEverything Is Bigger In Texas, these companies are making the financial and environmental commitments to clean free energy.

In an interview, Goh Chee Kiong, Executive Director of Singapore Economic Development Board stated, “We are confident that this pioneering business model of offsite power-purchase agreements will help Singapore address our space scarcity challenge and spur even more companies in Singapore to scale their renewable energy usage.”

To top it off, Apple has also announced their first Apple store will be opening in Singapore. This marks the first store to open in Southeast Asia.

5 Tips To Help Keep Your Home Warm This Winter Winter is coming. All easy Game of Thrones jokes aside, depending on where you live, winter is a massive drain on anyone’s household. With shifting temperatures, homes must be warmed, and then kept at a temperature through the cold winter nights. Little inefficiencies in your home can lead to a massive waste of heat and energy, which in turn, increases your monthly energy bill.

Fear not the winter! Here are 5 tips to help you improve your home’s ability to retain warmth and save on your energy bill!

1. Check the seals on your doors and windows. One of the easiest ways for warm air to escape your home is through the crooks and crannies that lead to the outside. Check to make sure that your doors are hung well and your windows close snugly. In the case of some windows that do not open, check the caulking around where the window seals into the wall to make sure there are no gaps.

2. Check your insulation. In the last five years, the technology and techniques used in home insulation has changed dramatically. New foam insulations have improved in their efficiency by up to 40% compared to those of 2010. Additionally, the types of insulation now vary, depending on your climate, to fit the most efficient needs of the home. If your insulation is older, it may be time to have it evaluated.

3. Finish that attic. If you have ever walked into an unfinished home or an unfurnished room, you know the chill factor that those rooms have. When a room is barren, it allows for the warm to quickly rise and then escape. By finishing your attic project, you will help keep the warmth down in the part of the home where people are and avoid losing warmth!

4. Open (and close) the blinds. During the day, make sure you open your blinds and curtains so the sun can shine into your home. This is the best kind of solar energy! It will warm up your home’s interior for free while being pleasant at the same time. Once night falls, close your blinds to add further insulation between your warm air and the cold glass of the windows.

5. Get a free energy audit. These are just a few tips on improving your home’s energy efficiency to decrease your bill. By contacting us for a Free In-Home Energy Audit, you can learn many other improvements that can be made to your home completely for free!

NEXT-GENERATION PV POWER PLANT First Solar Module Designed for Efficiency in 1500VDC Applications NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) and GE’s Power Conversion business (NYSE:GE) are utilizing their recently established technology and commercial partnership to develop a more cost effective and productive utility-scale PV power plant design that combines First Solar’s thin-film CdTe modules with GE’s new ProSolar 1500 Volt inverter/transformer system.

First Solar has integrated new technology into its modules and optimized them for 1500VDC applications.

Combined with GE’s 4MW ProSolar 1500V inverter/transformer stations, this development enables power plant engineering design that significantly increases the size of the solar array served by each inverter and reduces the number of inverter/transformer stations required for each plant to convert the power from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) and feed electricity to a commercial electrical grid. The resulting plant design maintains high power delivery while lowering installation and maintenance costs.

“This is a significant step in establishing the next generation of utility-scale PV power plants,” said Mahesh Morjaria, First Solar’s Vice President of Product Management. “Partnering with an industry giant such as GE, we are able to take our power plant design to the next level, and bring additional value to our customers.” Morjaria also noted that future generations of First Solar modules will increase optimization, benefiting from advances gained in part from the acquisition last fall of GE thin-film PV technology.

“GE is known throughout the industry as an established leader in power generation technology. With our ProSolar inverters, we were able to draw from our experience developing and manufacturing technology for traditional power plants to create a highly efficient solution with industry-leading capabilities,” said Joe Mastrangelo, CEO of GE Power Conversion. “The inverters’ design enable our customers to apply engineering design that significantly increases efficiency of energy production. Together with First Solar, we can help customers get the most out of their solar power systems.”

Morjaria said First Solar has already identified projects under construction for initial deployment of the new 1500v system. The 4MW ProSolar 1500V station is the largest inverter in the industry capable of accommodating 1,500 volt DC solar arrays, which is a major factor in utilizing economies of scale by significantly increasing the array size and reducing the number of inverters required by a solar power plant.

New Fuels America TV Campaign begins targeting anti-RFS legislators for siding with oil lobbyists, climate deniers Source: By Jim Lane, Biofuels Digest • Posted: Monday, November 16, 2015

In Washington, Fuels America is announcing a significant television campaign today calling out Rep. Peter Welch (VT-AL) for signing on to a Congressional letter that was authored by oil industry lobbyists. The first phase of the campaign includes 250 GRPs in the Burlington media market for one week.

The ad calls out Rep. Welch for protecting oil company profits and criticizes the 96 signers who are climate change deniers, urging viewers to “Remind Peter Welch to stand up for Vermont, not oil companies and climate deniers.”

The 184 Members of Congress who signed on have collectively received more than $39 million from the oil and gas industry throughout their careers. Altogether the signers have an average score of 2.74 from the League of Conservation Voters; 154 have an LCV score below 10, 140 have an LCV score below 5, and 76 have an LCV score of 0.

“After years of pleading with Congressman Welch, it is time to inform Vermonters about his beltway exploits with the oil industry attacking renewable fuels,” Advanced Biofuels Business Council Executive Director Brooke Coleman responded. “Mr. Welch didn’t just join an anti-biofuel campaign underwritten by the oil industry, he led the effort

to recruit others. It is time to shine a brighter light on those encouraging EPA and the President to gut the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). It’s not a chorus, it is the oil industry, climate deniers and EPA bashers disguised as one. This letter and the millions of dollars of oil contributions flowing to its signers tell you everything you need to know about the anti-RFS crowd.”

Rep. Welch’s letter, released last week, was sent to EPA Administrator McCarthy asking the Administration to gut the Renewable Fuel Standard—America’s most successful policy on the books aimed directly at fighting climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions—and a policy which Administrator McCarthy has called a “vital tool” in combatting climate change.

Brent Erickson, Executive Vice President at the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) also weighed in. “The oil industry has been caught red-handed in authoring the letter to EPA Administrator McCarthy and duping 180 lawmakers into putting their names on it. It is very disturbing to see the lengths the oil refining industry will go to distort the record and protect their profits and fuel monopoly.”

Welch responds to RFS attack ads Vermont Rep. Peter Welch responded over the weekend to ads critical of the Democrat’s signature on a letter asking U.S. EPA to keep ethanol volumes low in the national fuel supply.

Pro-biofuels campaigners Fuels America launched the ads in Vermont last week, asking viewers: “Why is Congressman Peter Welch circulating a plan written by oil industry lobbyists that protects their profits at the expense of clean renewable fuels?”

On Saturday, Welch responded to the ads.

“The corn ethanol industry is spreading a Washington-sized load of manure across Vermont,” he wrote in a statement. “I strongly support the development of renewable energy resources but the facts are clear that federal corn ethanol policy has been a well-intentioned flop.”

Welch, who has long opposed the federal renewable fuel standard, helped circulate a letter that originated from Rep. Bill Flores (R-Texas) earlier this month requesting that EPA lower the required level of ethanol to be blended in gasoline below the “blend wall” — the 10 percent threshold that the oil industry says is a “safe” level for ethanol content. In addition to Welch and Flores, 182 members of Congress signed the letter.

The letter generated a small controversy after Bloomberg Government reported two weeks ago that a draft of the letter had been written by a lobbyist from oil refiner Marathon Petroleum Corp. Petroleum refiners are among the most vocal opponents of the RFS and have banded with certain environmental groups, food organizations and small engine manufacturers to prevent increases in the ethanol mandate.

Fuels America’s ad is one in a series in a multimillion-dollar buy to stimulate support for the RFS, the 2007 policy to generate 36 billion gallons of biofuels from corn, grasses, food waste and other plant-based substances by 2022.

Opponents of the policy have also spent millions of dollars on their own ads, which seek to tie the policy to increasing greenhouse gas emissions in advance of the U.N. climate conference in Paris.

Though EPA and other government agencies base their analyses on models that show biofuels emitting less carbon dioxide than fossil fuels, some studies have challenged this assumption, finding that corn ethanol in some circumstances can emit more CO2 over a life cycle than previously thought.

Edmonton-area farm bets future on the sun

Fourth-generation farmer Kirk Harrold is harvesting the sun to power his farm northeast of Edmonton with help from the Alberta Agriculture program "Growing Forward."

CBC's John Robertson visited the Lamont County farm to check on the yield.

Click here to read it.

Enterprising alum finds a growing market for solar power in Alberta Solar power system designer and installer Clifton Lofthaug on the roof of NAIT's Centre for Sustainable Energy Technology This summer, alumnus Clifton Lofthaug (Electrical Engineering Technology (http://www.nait.ca/program_home_76783.htm) ’04) returned to NAIT as a renewable energy entrepreneur. As owner of Great Canadian Solar Ltd. (http://www.greatcanadiansolar.com/home/), he designed and installed a working solar photovoltaic (PV) system for the institute’s new Alternative Energy Technology (http://www.nait.ca/program_home_76007.htm) program. Located on the roof of the Centre for Sustainable Energy Technology, the entire system has enough generation capacity to meet 40 per cent of the needs of a typical Edmonton household. It will be used to teach installation, inspection and maintenance, as well as how to measure output and efficiency. Perhaps most importantly, though, it (along with studies in geothermal and wind energy, micro-hydro systems, fuel cells, biofuel production, carbon capture technology and more) will give students a firsthand glimpse of Alberta’s rapidly growing renewable energy industry. Here, Lofthaug shares his insight into the kinds of opportunities that might be available to the program’s first 24 students, and to the province in its efforts to continue to complement its largely petroleum-based economy. I always wanted to set up my own business and I saw great potential in alternative energy. I started Great Canadian Solar in 2009. Initially, I had a company that did residential and commercial electrical installation, but I was always looking for an area of specialization – something that would set me apart. My first project came when I chatted with a family, the Bococks, following a presentation by the Solar Energy Society of Alberta. They had been thinking of installing a PV system on one of their barns, and they invited me to meet them to talk about it. The Bococks took a real chance on me when others may not have; they knew this would be my first installation and that I wasn’t very experienced. Still, they gave me the opportunity to prove myself. I owe a lot of my success to them. Today, I specialize in the design and installation of residential, commercial, institutional and agricultural PV power systems. My customers range from homeowners, churches and net-zero home builders to low-income housing groups such as west Edmonton’s Brentwood Family Housing Society. Once completed, the Brentwood apartment building, with a 33-kilowatt system – about enough to power six average homes for a year – will be the largest grid-connected PV energy system in northern Alberta.

Being able to lead the design and construction on a project for an organization that helps house low-income families is fantastic. It’s rewarding, knowing that I’m doing something for the environment and working with likeminded, very environmentally and socially driven customers who want to do something good for the world. They enjoy knowing that all or a portion of the electrical energy they use is produced from renewable energy. Overall, there is growing interest in renewable energy, especially in solar. As part of its “The Way We Green” (http://www.edmonton.ca/city_government/city_wide_initiatives/environmental-strategic-plan.aspx) environmental strategic plan, the City of Edmonton is looking long-term at how we use and generate energy. Last fall, it launched a short-term solar-electric pilot program that offered rebates for home and business owners interested in installing solar electricity generation capacity. The initial $200,000 budget was quickly spent, and the program was oversubscribed, with 21 residential grants approved and six for commercial properties. I think there’s a bright future for grads of the Alternative Energy Technology program, especially since the world is embracing renewable energy. It is challenging here in Alberta, even though solar is low-maintenance and cost effective. I think Alberta could be well served by following Ontario’s lead. In Ontario, the provincial government has introduced a renewable energy feed-in tariff program that offers guaranteed prices for electricity generated by alternative energy systems, including solar PV. By encouraging development of renewable energy, the program is expected to help Ontario phase out coal-fired electricity generation by 2014. This is spurring manufacturing jobs in that

province. If Alberta followed Ontario’s example, I think there will be even more opportunities for AET grads who want to design, develop, manufacture and install renewable energy products. As told to Rachelle Drouin

Greenbelt Solar to Reveal $18,488 Worth of Solar Rebates and Federal Tax Incentives for Austinites at the Austin Solar Day to Be Held on Sunday, June 3, 2012, From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Austin Convention Center Located at 500 E. Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78701 Attendees Who Sit Through a Free 10-Minute Solar Rooftop Review Will Learn How to Install a 6-KW Solar Power Array That Will Allow Them to Purchase 25 Years of Solar Electricity at $0.026 Cents per kWh and to Reduce the Price They Pay for Electricity by 73% for a Total Investment of Only $5,513 AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwire - Jun 1, 2012) - Worried about Austin Energy's rising electric rates and future Texas heat waves? Greenbelt Solar will show Austin Solar Day attendees how to protect their families against electricity rate hikes and purchase 210,000 kWhs of solar electricity for only $0.026 cents per kWh. For this show only, attendees who sit through Greenbelt Solar's (www.greenbeltsolar.com) free 10-minute solar rooftop review will be able to purchase 25-years worth of clean, green electricity for approximately $5,513 after all solar rebates and federal solar tax credits have been deducted.

Soon Austin Energy plans to vote on a new electric rate case that may raise electricity rates up to 12.8% and may lower future solar rebates. Customers who want to take advantage of the fantastic current solar rebate of $2.50 per watt should sign up as soon as possible.

Customers who hesitate and do not turn in solar rebates in time may see the cost of a 6-kW solar system increase by several thousand dollars or more. So don't wait, pick up the phone and call Greenbelt Solar right now at (512) 627-6622 or send an email torobert@greenbeltsolar.com. All we need to get started is the customer's home address to review their roof top and the number of kWhs used each month for the last 12 months to calculate the customer's exact cost savings.

Solar experts will be in the booth to discuss Greenbelt Solar's free new HOA Solar Training Programs for residential homeowners. Details also will be available on Greenbelt Solar's new commercial Solar Design Centers and Solar Marketing Programs for all master planned communities, custom home builders and production home builders in Texas that want to offer their customers a Net-Zero Energy Solar Powered Home with extremely low monthly energy bills.

Research shows that new home builders who include solar as a standard option will sell homes 250% faster than neighborhoods without solar due to the fact that electricity bills may be up to 73% lower providing savvy solar home shoppers with a much lower total cost of home ownership.

As the price of electricity continues to go up, so will the savings generated by solar powered homes. Rolling the cost of solar system into a new home mortgage makes solar extremely affordable for all new homeowners in Texas.

Greenbelt Solar Offers Austin Home Buyers 72% Discount on Electric Bills Over the Next 25 Years via New Solar Builder Program for Austin Master-Planned Communities and Custom Green Home Builders Leading Research Study Revealed That Adding Solar as a Standard Feature on New Homes for Sale in Austin May Sell Homes Twice as Fast and Generate Twice as Many Business Referrals From Happy Solar Homeowners AUSTIN, TX--(Marketwire - May 22, 2012) - Greenbelt Solar (www.greenbeltsolar.com) today unveiled a new turnkey solar solution and a solar design center package for new home builders that will allow home-owners to purchase a new home in Austin that may have virtually no electricity bill for the next 25 years.

Greenbelt Solar provides a free solar training program for builder sales staff and realtors as well as free solar marketing materials for new model homes and custom homebuilder solar design centers to educate customers on the benefits and cost savings from installing a solar power array. Production builders interested in adding solar to their model homes and/or new home design centers should contact Robert Hoskins, Solar Sales for Production Home Builders at (512) 627-6622.

"Greenbelt Solar's turnkey solar solution allows new homeowners in Austin Energy's service territory to purchase their electricity for the next 25 years at $0.028 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) compared to the normal retail rate of $0.0965 per kWh," said Carey Ibrahimbegovic, Greenbelt Solar's CEO. "This represents a 72% discount on electricity at today's rates, which makes new homeowners very happy."

According to a leading research report on "Zero-Energy Homes" published by the U.S. Department of Energy, homebuilders and master planned communities that included solar as a standard feature sold homes 250% faster than nearby communities that did not offer solar. The same research study determined that customers who bought solar as a standard feature did so because they did not have to evaluate vendors, viewed the solar purchase decision as simple and safe, and bought homes specifically because they had a lower total cost-ofownership.

In addition, the solar home research pointed out that 93% of new solar homeowners were very satisfied with their purchase decision and that happy home buyers were twice as likely to recommend their homebuilder to family, friends and business colleagues due to their new home's lower electricity bills.

According to the research report solar home prices also went up in value by fifty-five percent compared to homes in nearby neighborhoods without solar. Solar really makes cents for new home buyers.

Another advantage for builders was the ability to roll the upfront cost of the solar system into the new home mortgage. After solar rebates and solar tax incentives are deducted the installed cost of a solar system is now under $4,000. Dividing $4,000 by 360 months in a typical mortgage, the monthly payment in Austin for a 4-kW solar system would be around $11 per month, but will save $47 per month on electric bills. So from day one new home buyers will increase their monthly cash flow by $36 per month or $432 per year.

Greenbelt Solar is offering the Turnkey Solar Package to the following new home builders in Austin, TX: Ashton Woods Homes, Avi Homes, Bella Vita Homes, Brohn Homes, Buffington Homes, Canterra Homes, Castle Rock Homes, Centerra Homes, Centex Homes, Cooper Beach Homes, David Weekley Homes, DR Horton Homes, Drees Custom Homes, Gehan Homes, Grand Haven Homes, Green Haven Ranch Homes, Highland Homes, Jeff Watson Homes, Jimmy Jacobs Homes, KB Homes, Lennar Homes, MA Howard Homes, Mainstreet Homes, Meritage Homes, MHI Central Texas Homes, Pacesetters Homes, Perry Homes, Pulte Homes, Russell Eppright Homes, Ryland Homes, Scott Felder Homes, Standard Pacific Homes, Sterling Homes, Steve Klein Homes, Streetman Homes, Taylor Morrison Homes, Tilson Homes, and Wilde Wood Homes.

Program helps homes in Vienna, Herndon, Falls Church go solar Homeowners in Herndon, Vienna and Falls Church have until Tuesday to take advantage of a program that can make it more affordable to start powering their homes with solar energy.

The Solarize NOVA program helps homeowners save money on converting to solar power through free home assessments and bulk discounts, said officials with the Local Energy Alliance Program, which sponsors the initiative with the Northern Virginia Regional Commission.

Rebates, loans and tax credits are also available to help consumers finance the conversion to solar, said Angela Hopgood, solar program manager for LEAP. Homeowners can lock in discounted rates for solar installation by registering for the program online and signing a nonbinding letter of interest by Tuesday, Hopgood said. Solarize NOVA has contracted with three Northern Virginia companies to do the installations at a reduced rate.

The installers review data on each home’s utility use and conduct site assessments to develop a proposal, Hopgood said.

“They can design a system that makes sense for the energy use of that particular home,” she said. “All of the systems are customized to the needs of the homeowner.” After a company makes a formal proposal, the homeowner has 30 days to sign the contract, she said.

The Solarize NOVA program was piloted last fall in Leesburg and Loudoun County, resulting in 17 signed contracts, Hopgood said. The contracts were valued at a total of $438,000.

Martin Boyd of Sterling signed up for the program because of his concern about global warming.

“I decided to jump up and be a better steward of myself and what I’m doing to the environment,” he said.

Boyd said his power bill had been a little more than $100 per month. Since converting to solar energy, it has dropped to $7.63 a month, he said. His system produces more electricity than his home uses, so the only charge is for the connection to the distribution system, he said.

Boyd estimates that, based on anticipated usage rates and projected costs of electricity, his solar system will pay for itself through cost savings in about 11 years. He also expects that his house will sell much more quickly if he decides to put it on the market.

Because Boyd’s system produces more energy than his home uses, it supplies power back to the grid. In return, he is receiving the equivalent of one Solar Renewable Energy Certificate every month. The certificates’ values rise and fall like stocks, he said. Currently each certificate is worth about $50.

“So not only have I gotten my electric bill down to $7.63, I’m also making about $50 a month” through the energy certificates, he said.

Mayors David Tartar of Falls Church and Laurie DiRocco of Vienna decided to hold a friendly competition to help spur interest in the Solarize NOVA program. They have a wager to determine which community can enroll the greatest number of participants for free home energy checkups and solar site assessments, Tartar said.

“The losing locality will provide some food from a local restaurant to the winning council,” DiRocco said in an email. “Food can be an enticing wager!”

As of last week, the competition appeared to be generating interest. Vienna led with 214 sign-ups; Falls Church had 174 and Herndon had 93, Hopgood said. Seven people had already signed contracts, and about 125 were in the process of working on agreements with the contractors, she said.

“I’m expecting that it’s going to be even more successful than Loudoun,” Hopgood said.

Barnes is a freelance writer.

GREENLANCER HEADS TO SPI 2015 IN SEPTEMBER GreenLancer’s first appearance as an exhibitor at Intersolar North America in July was a great success. Our team met and connected with solar industry professionals. It was a great opportunity to get the word out about the unique approach that GreenLancer takes to solar designs.

In fact, Intersolar North America was so successful, we’ve decided to return to California in September.

This time, we’re going to Anaheim, CA, for Solar Power International (SPI).

WE WILL BE LOCATED AT BOOTH #7238 FROM SEPTEMBER 14-17, SO BE SURE TO STOP BY AND SAY HELLO. SPI is the largest trade show of its kind in North America. It focuses on creating an environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and expertise for furthering solar energy development in the United States.

This trade show is another great opportunity for solar professionals to meet and discuss problems, solutions, and goals for the solar industry. If you want to attend, reserve your spot at the conference now.

10 TOP TWEETS FROM #INTERSOLAR 2015 here’s alot of action at #Intersolar this year. We rounded up some interesting tweets that show what’s been going on at the conference so far. Check it out! And don’t forget to stop by the GreenLancer booth to learn how we’re streamlining the design and permitting process. Be sure to follow us on twitter @greenlancer.

State Sen. Linares Named "Latino Citizen of the Year" Art Linares is the co-founder of Greenskies of Middletown, a commercial solar energy company.

By Jaimie Cura Patch Staff

Middletown, CT – Sen. Art Linares has been named “Latino Citizen of the Year” by the Connecticut Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission.

The LPRAC is a nonpartisan policy agency within the legislative branch of government. LPRAC consists of 21 appointed community leaders who advise the Connecticut General Assembly and the Governor on policies which foster progress in Connecticut’s Latino communities.

“I am very excited that members of the board of my agency agreed to bestow such a great honor to State Senator Linares,” LPRAC Executive Director Werner Oyanadel said. “Sen. Linares is a great leader who exemplifies all the best qualities of what makes this country so great! Sen. Linares has excelled in business and sports at a very young age and to our delight he becomes one of our first Latino Senators to be elected to that office to champion our issues in the halls of power.”

‘Improving the Quality of Life’ “I am deeply honored and humbled,” Sen. Linares said. “I am grateful to the Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission for this recognition, and I pledge to continue to work in a bipartisan fashion with anyone who is willing to pass policies which improve our quality of life in Connecticut.”

Linares, 26, is State Senator for the 33rd Senate District, which encompasses the towns of Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook.

A Westbrook resident, Linares is the lead Republican senator on the state legislature’s Planning and Development Committee. The panel has cognizance of all matters relating to local governments, regional planning and development activities, and economic development programs impacting local governments.

An Assistant Minority Leader, Sen. Linares also serves on the Education Committee, the Internship Committee and the Judiciary Committee. He has previously served on the Children’s Committee, the Commerce Committee and the Banks Committee.

Linares’ val­ues stem from his family’s his­tory. In 1961, a force of exiles trained by the CIA stormed Cuba in an attempt to free the coun-try from com-mu-nist dic-ta-tor Fidel Cas-tro. After the inva-sion failed, Linares’ grand­parents fled the coun­try they loved in order to assure that their chil­dren were safe and able to grow up in a free coun-try.

In Amer­i­ca, Linares’s father started a successful busi-ness, and that success inspired Linares to start a busi-ness out of his base-ment when he was 19 years old. Linares is the co-founder of Greenskies, a successful, Middletown-based, commercial solar energy company.

At 23, Linares was elected to the state Senate. He is now serving his second term in office.

The “Latino Citizen of the Year” award presentation will take place on Oct. 17 at Amarante’s Sea Cliff in New Haven.

GREENSKIES ENLARGES WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY'S MICROGRID

By Carl Weinschenk, Energy Manager Today September 1, 2015 Solar power will be added to an existing natural gas microgrid at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, under a contract between the university and Greenskies Renewable Energy LLC. The microgrid will produce 1.2 million kW hours of electricity annually. Several campus buildings not power by the existing microgrid will be added, according to the university. Construction will begin next spring and will be completed by September 1, 2016.

Under the agreement, Greenskies will design, develop, finance, own and maintain the facility for free for 20 years.

Wesleyan will buy the electricity produced at a reduced rate, according to Greenskies.

There is a constant flow of microgrid announcements. Last week, for instance, a partnership was announced between Siemens, Blue Lake Rancheria — a Native American reservation in Northern California — and Humboldt State University’s Schatz Energy Research Center to power a number of buildings on a 100-acre site. Also last week, Booz Allen Hamilton, Siemens and Power Analytics said they will study the technical and economic feasibility of microgrid projects in 16 cities across New York.

Inland Empire Students Start Their Solar Futures “Bobby!” “Bobby!” “Bobby!” A tent filled with the energetic chants of more than 40 high school students as SunPower Managing Director Bobby Ram made his way to the stage. Mr. Ram had spent the previous day installing solar alongside the students, and now he was preparing to address them.

“One of the things I get super excited about is the investments SunPower makes in education,” Mr. Ram told the crowd. “What I like the most about this program is that you’re taking STEM, everything you learn in the classroom and are able to get on the roof, or on the ground, and begin applying many of those lessons in real life and while doing so, understand the value proposition of career opportunities.”

Mr. Ram’s speech came at the end of the second day of an event in Moreno Valley, California, where GRID kicked off our Solar Futures initiative, a national partnership with SunPower that provides classroom and hands-on solar education to K-14 students, helping inspire and prepare them for careers in the growing solar industry. Over the course of two days, students from five local high schools learned to install SunPower panels on the roofs of four Habitat for Humanity homes, and like the solar panels, the kids were gleaming when the work was done.

“It’s awesome to be out here. I want to major in electrical engineering and hopefully get a job with SunPower and design solar panels,” said David Pinera a student at Kaiser High School.

This inland region of California has faced many challenges in recent years, among them the economic downturn, a lack of job opportunities, and environmental pollution. Despite these hardships, the sun-drenched “Inland Empire” is home to a booming solar industry, which brings with it a host of well-paid jobs.

“A lot of the students are looking forward to putting the newfound knowledge and skills to use when they graduate, and now have the experience on their resumes while looking for jobs or applying for college,” said Laura Gallardo, coordinator of the CORE Academy at Arroyo Valley High School in San Bernardino, one of the participating schools.

Take Rashah Freeman, a senior at Desert Hot Springs High School Renewable Energy Academy of Learning (REAL), which has been working with GRID Alternatives Inland Empire for two years.

“The Solar Futures program has helped me a lot. Although I am only 17 years old, I have forty or more hours of installation time. GRID Alternatives has helped me in every way possible. I dream to one day work in the solar industry to have my own home with solar panels on my roof.”

The two-day Solar Futures event, which included a solar career panel, was focused on exposing young adults like Mr. Freeman to solar career options as they prepare to graduate from high school and start a new chapter.

Participating schools included Arroyo Valley High School’s CORE Academy (Cultivating Organic Recycling Environmentalists), Norte Vista High School’s Green Construction Academy, Desert Hot Springs High School’s REAL academy, Kaiser High School, and Canyon Springs High School. For some of the schools, the event was paired with a 5-week classroom curriculum taught by GRID’s Inland Empire staff.

In addition to the training the event provided for students, the solar installations will also make a big difference for the families who are getting ready to move into these homes. One homeowner, Sheena Hidey, spent much of the day at the site, getting up on the roof to learn how the solar panels work and to help install them.

Sheena took a courageous leap five years ago when she left Colorado and an abusive relationship and headed to California with her four children. After three years of living in a domestic violence shelter, she is ecstatic to be able to move into a home of her own. “I hope we get to move in by the holidays, I’m so excited to put up Christmas lights.”

“At SunPower, we are all about ‘changing the way our world is powered’” said Mr. Ram. “Today, these amazing high school students are helping us do just that. How cool is that!”

A huge thanks to SunPower for their long-time commitment to GRID Alternatives and all of our staff, students and homeowners that made this day one to remember. Check out photos from the day here and stay tuned for more information on the Solar Futures initiative!

Training 1000 veterans through Troops to Solar This Veterans Day, GRID Alternatives is announcing our national Troops to Solar initiative to connect veterans to solar jobs by providing hands-on training to 1000 U.S. military veterans and active service members across the country. The initiative, supported by a 3-year, $750,000 grant from Wells Fargo, builds on the job training work we have have been doing with veterans across the country.

“Solar is a high-growth career that speaks to so many of the skills our Veterans bring -- leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, innovation,” said Anna Bautista, GRID’s Vice President for Construction and Workforce Development. “Together we can build a stronger clean energy future for our country.”

Troops to Solar is part of a larger national effort by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) to employ 50,000 veterans in the solar industry by 2020. America’s solar industry is a strong employer of veterans and provides economic empowerment through good wages ($20-$24 per hour) in high-growth jobs, many of which do not require advanced degrees.

“Solar companies hire veterans because they come trained, ready, and passionate. The solar industry is filled with people who are passionate about the job and who work together to help people, the environment, and national security,” said Nat Kreamer, an Afghan war veteran and Chairman of the Solar Energy Industries Association.

“Solar, like the military, is not just about the paycheck; it’s also about working for something larger than oneself.

Veterans working in solar get to serve our nation twice.”

Under the initiative, we will provide solar installation trainings for military and veterans groups, “Vets helping Vets” events to provide solar systems for low-income veterans, an online resume bank connecting trainees with industry job openings, and solar job fairs. Troops to Solar also includes a new Native American Veterans Initiative to install solar with veteran job trainees in extremely high-need communities in the Navajo Nation and other tribal reservations.

With this new grant, Wells Fargo will have invested over $3.8 million since 2007 in GRID Alternatives’ work to install solar systems for low-income families and provide solar industry workforce development in disadvantaged communities.

WEIGHING THE DECISION TO GO SOLAR Is now the right time to invest in solar power for home owners? Just take a look at (fossil fuel) electrical prices in Arizona in the last few years. The trend is clear. Year after year, electrical prices are creeping upwards, and this is a pattern that is unlikely to stop.

After all, the amount of oil and coal in this world is dropping by the day. The prices will only keep going up in the years ahead, barring a miraculous discovery of new sources.

Most forms of alternative power, such as wind turbines, are still out of the reach of residential installation… but not solar power! Even as fossil fuels become more expensive every year, solar power becomes cheaper and more efficient. Today’s solar cells are less expensive than ever before, while bringing energy conversion rates up to 40%.

By comparison, when President Carter put solar panels on the White House in the late 70s, the solar conversion rates were less than 10%.

This means solar power for home residences is truly obtainable. Plus, thanks to the lower prices, it’s now even possible to install leased solar panels for little or no money down while enjoying stable pricing throughout the year.

When you lease your solar panels, you bring consistency to your electric bill: Locked-in prices month after month, year after year. That’s a promise that comes with solar which which simply cannot be matched.

Better yet for your budget, you can even receive credit for extra power generated. If your solar panels create more electricity than you use, that power is moved onto the grid, and your bill is pro-rated according to your net contributions.

3 REASONS WE LOVE SUNPOWER PANELS When you’re looking into solar panel contractors, few things are more important than what’s actually going to be going onto your home or business. That’s why, here at Harmon Solar, we’re proud to partner with SunPower!

What makes SunPower panels special? Let’s take a look.

Three Reasons Harmon Solar Proudly Offers SunPower 1 – Maxeon Energy Output SunPower holds over 200 patents on proprietary solar-conversion processes, allowing them to create the most energy-efficient solar panel on the market. Their panels can generate up to 44% more power than traditional panels, putting them head-and-shoulders above the rest.

2 – Serious Reliability SunPower tests their panels more thoroughly than any other manufacturer on the market, using designs which are intended for real-life usage scenarios. Their materials, their build quality, and their weather-proofing are all superior to alternatives on the market, leading them to also be one of the leading suppliers to military services.

3 – Superior Post-Sale Performance Based on ten years’ data, SunPower panels actually outperform their own service estimates, giving an average of 105% expected performance. This is backed by an industry-leading full-maintenance warranty.

The result? Uptime of 98% or greater across the lifespan of the panels.

Come To Harmon For The Best In Solar Power, For Less When we say that we provide the best solar power panels in Arizona, we mean it. Our partnership with SunPower means we provide the best value-for-money in the state.

Plus, when you utilize our convenient leasing plans, you can get these truly world-class solar panels for little or no money down! It’s never been quicker or easier to switch your home to solar, and start enjoying the savings immediately.

Contact us today for a free consultation or service estimate!

HatiCon Solar Approved for Fire Rating UL 1703 Ontario, CA — HatiCon Solar receives approval for UL1703 Class A fire rating for Type 1 Modules. The HatiCon Solar alHome pitched roof system now complies with all IBC and California fire safety codes.

The HatiCon Solar alHome pitched roof system has passed rigorous fire safety requirements with Underwriters Laboratories to achieve the UL1703 Class A fire rating. The alHome system is compliant with all Type 1 modules on steep slope roofs in portrait orientation.

Made from noncorrosive lightweight aluminum, the alHome system has an on-site leveling capacity of up to 1.5 inches and can be installed on a wide variety of roofs up to 70° slope. Longer spans require fewer penetrations.

Patented click technology and universal preassembled parts saves time and money. The HatiCon Solar alHome pitched roof system features the new UL listed HatiBond tool less splice. This drastically improves the speed and ease of installation while decreasing the part count of the alHome system. The new HatiBond technology enhances the versatility of the alHome pitched roof system for a simpler, faster and better installation.

HatiCon Solar is now owned and operated by Mounting Systems GmbH.

Sapa sells HatiCon to Mounting Systems GmbH Sapa has sold its HatiCon operations to the German company Mounting Systems GmbH. HatiCon produces, markets and sells aluminium extrusion-based mounting systems for the solar industry.

The agreement reached today means that Mounting Systems GmbH, will with immediate effect take over the operations for HatiCon Germany GmbH including the US company HatiCon Solar, LLC.

The divestment concludes a process in which the management of Sapa’s aluminium building systems business area also had evaluated new restructuring measures following challenging market conditions in the solar industry in Europe.

“Combining Mounting Systems and HatiCon will be an opportunity to create on strong and competitive player in the photovoltaic and solar thermal mounting systems industry”, says Karsten Lundgaard, executive vice president and head of Sapa Building Systems.

Sapa delivers aluminium solutions to customers in the solar industry across the world, however, HatiCon has been the only unit in Sapa delivering branded systems to this industry. “Going forward Sapa will not be operating with branded systems in this industry but rather continue as a supplier of aluminium extrusions to companies like Mounting Systems and Haticon”, concludes Lundgaard.

For over 20 years Mounting Systems develops and manufactures innovative racking system solutions for photovoltaic and solar thermal applications. With acquiring HatiCon, Mounting Systems continues growing as a specialist for innovative and high-quality racking system solutions for photovoltaic and solar thermal systems, both nationally and internationally.

“Uniting Mounting Systems and HatiCon is an important milestone for our company”, says Stefan Spork, Managing Director of Mounting Systems. “With acquiring HatiCon, we gain valuable know-how in racking systems solutions,

especially for on-roof systems. This fits perfectly in our product portfolio and the services we offer and will benefit our customers”, adds Stefan Spork.

HatiCon’s production activities and head office are in Pinnow, Germany. The company also has offices in Güterfelde, Germany, and Ontario, California. HatiCon employs about 100 people.

The companies agreed on keeping the purchase price confidential. The brand “HatiCon” and all associated functions, like administration, management and infrastructure, will be continued for now.

Sapa is the world leader in aluminium solutions, shaping a lighter future through a global reach and local presence within extrusions, building systems, and precision tubing. The company has 23,000 employees in more than 40 countries, and the headquarters are located in Oslo, Norway. www.sapagroup.com

Mounting Systems GmbH is one of the largest manufacturers of fastening systems for photovoltaic and solarthermal power plants in the world and module frames. With over 20 years of experience in the market, the company is a highly skilled developer and manufacturer in this business segment, headquartered in Rangsdorf near Berlin. Mounting Systems is also serving its customers from its own sales and production site in West Sacramento, USA and sales offices in UK, France and Japan.

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HCOM Commercial Solar Stations Now Available For 208v or 230v Power Heliodyne Inc., America’s oldest and most established manufacturer of solar thermal systems is pleased to announce the expansion of their HCOM Commercial Solar Station product line. This expansion will offer pumping stations for use with single-phase power at either 208v or 230v. Regardless of whether the building is wired for commercial or residential power, an HCOM system is now available for use with that power source. According to Ole Pilgaard, President and CEO of Heliodyne, “The HCOM product line is an integral component of any mid to large scale solar hot water installation. Regardless of how the building is wired, we can provide a solar pumping station which is compatible with that power feed.” HCOM systems are used with solar hot water systems that employ anywhere from 16 to 96 solar hot water collectors. Depending on the hot water demand for that facility, 4 different size models are available. Delta-T controllers, available with the system, include Ethernet or WIFI access.

This allows for on-line performance monitoring, energy metering, and automated service/maintenance notifications. Input voltage needs to be specified when ordering an HCOM Commercial Solar Station. About Heliodyne: Established in 1976, Heliodyne designs and manufactures high quality solar hot water systems for both commercial and residential applications. With offices and manufacturing in Richmond, California, the company provides a comprehensive line of solar thermal water heating products including the GOBI line of solar flat plate collectors and the Helio line of heat transfer appliances. Heliodyne is the North American branch of SolarCAP, the active parent company of VKR Group’s thermal solar energy business, a holding company based in Denmark.

HELIODYNE PARTNERS WITH H3O FUNDING To Provide Lease Financing For Commercial Solar Hot Water Systems

RICHMOND, CA, March 28, 2012 – Heliodyne Inc., America’s oldest and most established manufacturer of solar thermal systems is pleased to announce a partnership with H3O Funding. This partnership is aimed at commercial solar hot water projects that cost between $150,000 and $2.5 million and provides flexible capital for their purchase and installation. Heliodyne manufactures and supplies solar flat plate collectors, heat transfer appliances and temperature control equipment used for the production of hot water. They offer systems intended for both commercial and residential applications. H3O Funding, based in Oakland, CA, purchases solar thermal systems and installs them on buildings at no cost to the property owner. Property owners lease the system from H3O at a price that is less than their utility bill would have been without the solar hot water system. About Heliodyne: Established in 1976, Heliodyne designs and manufactures high quality solar hot water systems for both commercial and residential applications. With offices and manufacturing in Richmond, California, the company provides a comprehensive line of solar thermal water heating products including the GOBI line of solar flat plate collectors and the Helio line of heat transfer appliances. Heliodyne is the North American branch of SolarCAP, the active parent company of VKR Group’s thermal solar energy business, a holding company based in Denmark.

Shelter Valley Ground Mount Faith and Rik live on a wide-open lot in Shelter Valley, where there is no shortage of sunshine. Besides their main house, they have a barn, a well run by an electric pump, and an RV that has to be kept at a certain temperature to prevent the wood veneer from warping in the heat. Faith also has an industrial embroidery sewing machine that she uses weekly. Needless to say, their electric bill could get as high as $800.

By the time we met them at a local home show in San Diego, they had already gotten a couple quotes for solar and were getting close to making a decision. They ended up choosing to lease for their 8.18 kW SunPower system. This system is designed to offset a little over 100% of their current consumption, so we were happy to hear that Faith’s electric bill was -$1.41 last month! She is excited that she is able to monitor her system’s production from a simple app on her iPad or phone.

Faith requested that the low end of the ground mount be at least 5 ft. off the ground to prevent shading from their fence and overgrowth of brush. Since Faith and Rik are both firefighters for San Diego County, they are making sure to do their part in preventing any fires in the Shelter Valley dry heat. As a perk, their little Fiat fits under the structure.

Solar/Generator Combo Gerardo, of Fallbrook, was looking to integrate a large generator with the solar system he had just signed up for.

He requested a quote through Generac, where Herca Telecomm (our sister company) happens to be a certified dealer.

When we went out to quote his generator, we inquired about the details of his upcoming solar installation. The company was planning to put the solar on his roof, which (after inspecting) is way too old, fragile, and small to hold the amount of panels he needed. We proposed that he consider installing a ground since his property is very large and the hillside is a perfect South-West slope.

After we explained all of this, Gerardo agreed to get a quote from us that incorporates the generator AND the solar. We determined he needed a 10.46kW system (32 SunPower panels) to knock out his $350+ electric bill. On top of that, he needed a 48kW Generac generator.

After explaining all of this to him and giving him our solar proposal, Gerardo decided to move forward with the generator/solar combo with Herca. He realized that the hillside was a more realistic solution to specific situation

Making Solar Work In Rural Oregon Hood River is on its way to discovering energy savings and renewable energy opportunities. Join us and learn how to reap the rewards of local energy programs and projects.

This one-day workshop brought to you by Gorge Owned and Columbia Gorge Climate Action Network is designed to help Hood River increase its investment in clean energy as a way to create a healthier environment for the community, grow the tax base, and save and keep money in the region.

Topics include: Discovering Hood River’s clean energy potential, learning from success stories in Hood River and other Oregon communities, and investing in community-owned energy projects. There will be plenty of time for questions and small-group discussions.

Location: Hood River Fire Station, 1785 Meyer Pkwy, Hood River, OR Time: Sign-in begins at 8:30 a.m. Workshop is 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Registration Cost: $15, which covers meals (Pine Street Bakery and Marley’s Corner) and workshop sessions.

Solar is in Trouble in Washington In March Klickitat PUD capped out their solar incentive program. Just last week Benton REA closed their program to new participants. Little by little the rural utilities we work with in Washington State are reaching their Production Incentive cap of .5% of annual taxable power sales. We just got this letter from our Washington State Solar Trade group – Solar Installers of Washington that explains the situation and gives you some ways to help: September 24, 2015 PRODUCTION INCENTIVE CAPS REACHED Solar installations in Washington have been booming thanks to a successful incentive program. Now several utilities in Washington report that they are close to hitting their solar production incentive pay-out caps.

This means that the amount of annual production incentive you receive could be reduced, depending on your utility and depending on what happens in the upcoming legislative session.

Installers are just being notified of this issue in the Seattle and PSE service territories. The existing production incentive program lacks transparency so it’s difficult to know for certain where each utility is in relation to its cap.

Some small public utilities have already reached theirs. Some of these have closed their incentive programs to new applicants.

The primary cause of this situation is the rapid deployment of solar throughout Washington. Additionally, homeowners are installing larger solar systems and using Made-in-Washington equipment, with a higher incentive

rate. Finally, a sunnier and milder winter and spring than forecast resulted in more solar production and less revenue for utilities.

How Solar Power Systems Work Solar power is a hot topic. From solar systems for the home or commercial building to solar farms, this renewable, clean, green energy source is on everyone’s mind.The biggest thing we’re all probably thinking about as consumers is: How much will this save me?

There are a variety of statistics. But the bottom line is a solar system pays back the cost of installation over time.

You can realize savings on your electric bill within the first month and even get credit for the electricity your system produces! Benefits include more than just electric bill savings. Here’s what the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy and Efficiency & Renewable Energy says about the topic: According to the Appraisal Journal, home value increases $20 for every $1 reduction in annual utility bills. So a solar energy system that saves $200 per year would also add $4,000 to the value of a home.

Homes with solar systems sellfaster than those without them.

As prices fall, solar energy is becoming more of an economical energy choice for American homeowners and businesses. The biggest hurdle to affordable solar energy remains the soft costs – like permitting, zoning.

Solar energy is the most abundant energy resource on earth – 173,000 terawatts of solar energy strikes the Earth continuously. That’s more than 10,000 times the world’s total energy use.

Meanwhile, the cost of installing solar has gone down in California which offers excellent rebate programs. For more information on California’s rebate programs, visit Go Solar California! The site also offers nifty calculators to help you make a decision about going solar in California.These calculators provide estimates of costs, paybacks, and electricity production for solar systems and may not be a true reflection of the costs or the pay-back period for a new solar electricity system, according to the site. Here’s the link: http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/tools/calculators.php. Go Solar California is a joint effort of the California Energy Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission.Here’s a quick look at how California is doing in the solar power market: California leads the nation in solar projects 242,957 solar projects 2,284 megawatts installed Here are some other amazing solar facts, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association Web site: “The U.S. installed 1,133 MWdc of solar PV in Q2 2014, up 21% over Q2 2013, making it the fourth-largest quarter for solar installations in the history of the market.”

“Cumulative operating PV capacity has now eclipsed the 15 GWdc mark, thanks to three consecutive quarters of more than 1 GWdc installed.”

“Through the first half of 2014, more than a half-million homeowners and commercial customers have installed solar PV.” “For the first time ever, more than 100 MWdc of residential PV came on-line in a single quarter without any state incentive.”

“53% of all new electric generating capacity in the U.S. in 1H 2014 came from solar.”

“Growth remains driven primarily by the utility solar PV market, which installed 625.”

“MWdc in Q2 2014, up from 543 MWdc in Q2 2013.”

“We forecast that PV installations will reach 6.5 GWdc in 2014, up 36% over 2013 and more than three times the market size of just three years ago.”

“Q1 2014 was the largest quarter ever for concentrating solar power, due to the completion of the 392 MWac Ivanpah project and Genesis Solar project’s second 125 MWac phase. While no CSP plants came on-line in Q2 2014, commissioning work continues at Crescent Dunes and a total of 857 MWac is expected to be completed by year’s end, making 2014 the biggest year ever for CSP.” Solar is a renewable source of energy. Going solar helps reduce the load on our public utilities, helps keep pollutants out of the atmosphere, and so much more. The bottom line is that a solar power system can save you in the long run.

Solar Rebates Solar Jobs Solar power systems are all the rage. Everyone has seen the ads and most of us know someone already using the sun to power their home. So what rebates and incentives can help homeowners take full advantage of the mean, green money-saving machine called solar power?

It all starts with the 30-percent Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) for residential and commercial properties installing qualified solar technology. The ITC expires on December 31, 2016 so there’s still time to take advantage and no reason to wait – homeowners without sufficient tax liability for the current year can roll the credit over to the following year!

The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency is a great resource for information about federal incentives and renewable energy policies. Visit them at http://www.dsireusa.org.

Residential customers have a wide range of programs and incentives that promote installation of solar power systems, energy efficient lighting and heating, pool pumps, windows, etc. To find the right program, check outhttp://goo.gl/EnuQ7s

In California, the state rebate program for PG&E customers has been exhausted and the program closed. However, homeowners can still go solar for $0 down. There are many city and county programs that can help. For example, the City of Santa Monica waives permit fees for solar projects and San Bernardino County has a Green Building Incentive Program to facilitate the design, review, and inspection process for qualified photovoltaic solar projects.

Taking advantage of solar incentives can reduce the cost of installation and maximize savings. Installing a solar power system not only saves money, but it raises property values. Remember, these incentives, tax credits, and rebates have expiration dates but the sun never stops shining and neither do the solar savings!

Paragon Communications Slashes Energy Costs With Independence Solar!

BOLTON, MA (July 8, 2015) – Paragon Communications partnered with Independence Solar to install a 1,200 kW rooftop solar array at its Bolton, MA headquarters. The 4,000-panel installation will offset about 50% of the 300,000 sq. ft. building’s annual usage.

Having relocated to their new headquarters in Bolton, MA in 2013, Paragon was looking to expand its sustainability initiatives in a big way while making a solid financial investment. Independence Solar worked with them from the initial project feasibility stage through financing and construction of the state of the art solar facility. The project broke ground in September 2014 and began producing clean energy and savings by the end of the year. Paul Gentili, CFO at Paragon Communication, comments: “Investing in solar was definitely the next move for us. We methodically researched and planned this for a long time and will reap the benefits for years to come.

Independence Solar delivered a high quality project on time and on budget, while making the experience seamless on our end.” James Schwartz, Vice President at Independence Solar, comments: “Paragon is one of the leading technology companies in New England because they are constantly innovating while making smart investments in their business. This solar system fits perfectly with that game plan as it significantly reduces their operating costs while demonstrating their commitment to sustainability to their customers, partners, and employees. It has been a privilege to work with a visionary company like Paragon.”

The system is one of the largest rooftop arrays in Massachusetts. Many of the system components were sourced from local suppliers, including the power inverters that were manufactured just down the road in Lawrence, MA. lcordero@independencesolar.com

Independence Solar Completes 390 kW Rooftop Solar Installation for General Floor Industries in Bellmawr, NJ BELLMAWR, NJ (May 27, 2015) – Independence Solar announces the completion of a 390 kW rooftop solar array on the roof of General Floor Industries’ corporate headquarters and distribution center in Bellmawr, NJ. General Floor selected Independence Solar as their partner for all aspects of the installation of 1,298 solar panels. This installation will offset almost 100% of the electrical needs of the facility.

James Smith, CFO at General Floor Industries, commented: “Solar was a logical next step for our company and has delivered a sound return on investment. Independence Solar made the project easy and continues to be there even after the installation to ensure that our system is always operating at peak levels. We are very pleased with their continuous support and dedication to our investment.”

Keith Peltzman, President at Independence Solar, shared: “It’s been a pleasure to work with such a forwardthinking client like General Floor. Their leadership saw the value in solar and was able to execute on this vision.

Our goal was to deliver solar to General Floor without any impact on their daily operations and to exceed the baseline projections that we set for them. We are proud to include General Floor as one of our key clients.”

NYSERDA Cash Rebates The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers rebates to homeowners who install solar panels. The goal is to support 3.175 gigawatts of solar panel installations across the state by the time the program expires in 2023.

Qualifications: Most residential installations qualify. Your array must simply be 25 kilowatts (kW) or less, remain grid-tied, be installed by a pre-approved contractor and comply with all standards and safety codes. You may even qualify for double the rebate based on a new rule passed in October, 2015. This rule states that any New York resident who earns 80% or less of their county’s median income may qualify for the Affordable Solar program. This means a family of four living in Orange County with an income of less than $69,360 could qualify.

How the incentive lowers costs: The NYSERDA’s budget for this program is $762 million, much of which has already been paid out. Rates should remain at $0.70 per watt through the end of 2015, which equals $3,500 for a typical 5kW solar array. For anyone who qualifies for the Affordable Solar program, this figure jumps to $1.40 per watt, or $7,000 for a typical solar panel installation! As the expiration date nears and funds are depleted, rebate rates will drop. This means the sooner you act, the higher your solar incentives for Orange County, NY.

Federal Tax Credits for Solar Energy Federal solar tax credits are available for every qualifying installation across the country. They expire December 31, 2016, so now is the time to act.

Qualifications: Existing homes and new construction both qualify for federal solar tax credits. You can also claim the incentive whether you install solar panels on your principle residence or a secondary vacation home. Rental properties do not qualify.

How the incentive lowers costs: Federal tax credits are some of the most lucrative solar incentives for Orange County, NY. They cover 30% of the cost, including installation, with no upper limit. Remember, any NYSERDA rebates you qualify for are subtracted from the total cost before tax credits are applied.

New York State Solar Tax Credits The next incentive is another sizable way to offset the cost of installing solar panels: state solar tax credits. Only select states offer such an incentive, and you’ll be glad to learn that New York is among them. Plus, there’s currently no expiration date for this tax credit, so you can count on claiming it no matter when you decide to go solar.

Qualifications: Your installation qualifies for these solar incentives for Orange County, NY if it’s grid tied, net metered and under 25kW. You also need to purchase your panels outright, lease them or buy them through a purchase power agreement (PPA). Most residential applications easily meet these qualifications.

How the incentive lowers costs: New York offers one of the most generous solar tax credits equaling 25% of the total purchase and installation cost with a cap of $5,000. Remember, any NYSERDA rebates you qualify for are subtracted from the total cost before tax credits are applied.

Sales Tax Exemption Every state decides how to handle sales tax on solar panel purchases. Some states lower the rate to make the purchase more affordable. New York takes this concept one step further by offering a 100% sales tax exemption on solar panel purchases.

Qualifications: Both residential and non-residential systems qualify for this exemption. The only types of installations that don’t qualify are those used for residential recreational facilities, such as backyard pools.

However, solar panels used for heating commercial pools do qualify.

How the incentive lowers costs: When you’re looking at a $25,000 solar panel purchase, New York’s 4% sales tax adds on another $1,000 to the purchase. With this exemption, that money goes back in your pocket.

Property Tax Exemption Lawmakers in each state decide just how much they want to ease the switch to solar for residents in their area.

Thankfully, New York lawmakers took an important step to facilitate your switch to solar: they eliminated property tax increases that would normally follow a solar installation.

Qualifications: A variety of energy conservation improvements qualify for a property tax exemption, including solar water heaters, wind power, biomass energy and geothermal heat pumps. All you need to qualify is to live in a single-family to four-family residence and have one of these improvements installed.

How the incentive lowers costs: The average solar installation adds 20 times your annual electricity bill to the value of your home, or about $20,000. Normally, this kind of upgrade would increase property taxes. Fortunately, thanks to this exemption, you are not required to pay increased taxes to the extent that the addition would increase the value of your home. This benefit lasts for 15 years.

Net Metering When you install a solar array, the goal is to meet your home’s electricity needs as closely as possible. However, because of fluctuating energy production and consumption, it’s rare for these figures to match perfectly every month.

When your solar panels don’t produce quite enough electricity, remaining grid-tied ensures your home still gets the power it needs. When your solar panels produce excess energy, net metering is a way for you to sell this energy back to the utility company. This benefits you as well as your provider, since it’s a way for the utility to offer other customers electricity generated from a clean source.

Qualifications: As long as your solar installation is less than 25kW and remains tied to the grid, you have the chance to take advantage of net metering. Other renewable energy sources also qualify, including solar, wind, fuel cells and micro turbines.

How the incentive lowers costs: Without net metering (or a battery to store energy), excess electricity would go to waste. This incentive helps keep utility costs down in one of two ways: either you are granted a credit on next month’s energy bill or excess electricity is reconciled annually at the current retail rate. If you opt for the annual reconciliation option, you can choose to have the pay period end at the height of summer so you cash out when electricity is sold at its highest rate.

Thanks to solar incentives for Orange County, NY including rebates, tax credits and exemptions, you can cut your initial investment down by more than half! Not to mention, you get to enjoy great savings over the life of your solar panels with property tax exemptions and net metering. All this comes on top of the savings you already enjoy from switching to solar!

What are you waiting for? Now is the time to make your dream of going solar a reality.

How to Find the Best Solar Company in Orange County, NY It’s no surprise that an increasing number of people are going solar. With government incentives, the chance to do something good for the environment and lower purchase and installation costs, solar is more enticing than ever before.

Once you decide to make the switch to solar, you still have more research to do. After all, quickly jumping into a decision that will affect you for the next 30 years or more isn’t wise. Instead, take your time comparing options to

ensure complete satisfaction with your solar installation for years to come. Here’s what you need to do to land the best solar company in Orange County, NY.

Find a true solar expert.

This is the single most important consideration when choosing a solar company in Orange County, NY. While it’s true that every master was once a beginner, experience matters in solar. The job involves installing heavy equipment, setting up net metering and tying the system to your home and the grid – you definitely want someone who knows what they’re doing.

When searching for an expert company, don’t just take their word about their experience; instead, look for certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. NABCEP is the most well-respected and widely recognized third party certification organization in North America. Companies certified by NABCEP are true solar professionals.

Look for experience.

Ask prospective companies how long they have been in business and how many solar projects they have installed in that time. The more installations the company has completed, the more you can trust their work. Ask to see pictures of past projects so you can see what your solar array might end up looking like.

Experience is important because contractors with hundreds or even thousands of installations under their belt are less likely to cut corners. A job well done means there’s a much smaller chance for roof leaks, electrical problems or other system failures down the road.

Ask about licensing and insurance.

Every solar company in Orange County, NY should have a license to install solar panels in New York. Insurance coverage is also important to remove liability from your shoulders if something goes awry during the installation.

Ask for license and insurance numbers so you can verify a company’s credentials.

Contact references and read reviews.

When the solar company presents you with pictures of past projects, ask for the contact information for some of these past clients. Call a handful of them and ask for details, including the company’s professionalism, timeliness and the customer’s satisfaction with the end product.

But don’t stop there. Hop online and read reviews from other customers. Testimonials on the company’s website as well as reviews on third party sites such as Yelp.com and Angie’s List can be very useful for determining if you want to work with one company over another.

Finally, check the solar installer’s standing with the Better Business Bureau. A high rating indicates a longer time in business, low complaint history, transparent business practices and adequate licensing.

Avoid “bargain basement” prices.

When faced with a solar panel investment, you may be tempted to go with the company that offers the very lowest prices. However, when it comes to solar panels, the old adage “you get what you pay for” definitely applies.

An upfront savings of $5,000 could end up costing you $10,000 in higher monthly rates over the next 25 to 30 years.

Clearly, the best return often requires a little more upfront. Fortunately, if you find a solar company in Orange County, NY that offers $0 solar leases or loans, you don’t have to worry about restrictive upfront costs.

Find out what solar panels the contractor offers.

You wouldn’t spend $25,000 on a car without researching different makes and models, right? Just as gas mileage, reliability and paint job matter when you buy a new car, energy efficiency, panel durability and aesthetics matter when you purchase solar panels.

In an effort to keep costs down, some solar companies offer outdated technology that delivers a slower return on investment and doesn’t stand the test of time. Avoid problems and early system failure by choosing a solar company in Orange County, NY that offers the best solar panels available.

SunPower is a top solar panel brand. It boasts the record-high efficiency of any solar panel on the market at 21.5% efficiency. The panels are also constructed with a solid copper backing for incredible durability and strength. An impressive warranty rounds out the benefits of SunPower, which includes a combined 25-year power and product warranty, though these panels actually tend to last over 40 years. With such impressive characteristics, you can make your solar investment with greater peace of mind.

Ask for details about the warranties.

Hearing you have a 25-year power and product warranty is great, but do you know what this really means? Ask the installer what’s covered by these individual warranties. Find out who pays for shipping and labor if a defective component must be replaced. Ask what happens if you need to make a warranty claim, but the installer has gone out of business.

Ask about monitoring Once your new solar panels are installed, how can you tell they’re doing their job? And if something goes wrong, how will you know? Monitoring is the answer.

With solar panel monitoring, you can check how many kilowatts of electricity each individual panel is generating and how much money you’re saving on monthly utility bills. It’s satisfying to see how quickly your investment is paying you back. Plus, if one panel’s production levels drop, you know something is wrong and can have the problem looked at right away.

Monitoring also allows you to see how much energy your home is drawing from the solar panels and how much is coming from the grid. You can use this information to help decide whether to add more solar panels down the road.

SunPower is one solar panel brand that offers effortless monitoring through a mobile app. The convenient interface lets you monitor your solar system from anywhere.

Look for a start-to-finish solar installer.

It’s one thing to find a solar company in Orange County, NY to install your panels; it’s another thing entirely to find a company that deals with every step of the process on your behalf. You may not be aware, but installing solar panels requires permits, building inspections and clearance from the utility company.

If you want to claim incentives, you have a pile of paperwork to fill out as well. The installer you choose should be familiar with all solar incentives available in Orange County. The more incentives the company applies for on your behalf, the more money you stand to save.

The best solar company in Orange County, NY handles all of these complicated and time-consuming processes so you can sit back and relax as your solar array takes shape.

You have a lot of questions to ask each prospective solar company in Orange County, NY, but doing your research first will pay off later when you see yourself starting to save money and help the environment. Begin your research today so you can pair up with a certified installer tomorrow!

http://ips-solar.com/news/ (More than 5 Press Releases)

How Solar can Help Save Pollinators A few weeks back Rob Davis, Director of the Media and Innovation Lab at Fresh Energy, gave a presentation at the VERGE Conference in San Jose. The focus of the presentation (which can be seen here) was how ground mounted solar arrays could be used to create habitats for ‘pollinators’ like honey bees and butterflies that are vitally important to our economy and food supply. After watching the presentation we figured this would be a good time to explain why we chose to sign Fresh Energy’s pollinator pledge and partnered with several other solar companies to purchase a full page ad in the Star Tribune advocating for others to take the pledge (see the ad below).

Minnesota is expecting thousands of acres of ground-mounted solar arrays to be built in the next few years, in big part due to the large amount of community solar gardens being planned. These arrays cover a lot of land that could potentially be used for other purposes. The earth beneath ground mounted solar arrays is often covered with gravel or dirt. This essentially means land beneath the new panels would go to waste. If you replaced that gravel or dirt with native grasses it would create a perfect habitat for honey bees, butterflies, and other types of pollinators, while reducing costs at the same time.

Why is it important to protect these pollinators? Because they help replenish our food supply and support our economy. More than $15 billion a year in U.S. crops are pollinated by bees, including apples, berries, cantaloupes, cucumbers, alfalfa, and almonds, and these same bees produce about $150 million in honey annually. The problem is that pollinators are disappearing at an alarming rate. Since 1990 we have lost 25% of the controlled honey bee population in the US and nearly a billion monarch butterflies.

Large scale solar arrays offer the opportunity to make a significant impact. Just 2,500 acres of solar arrays with pollinator-friendly habitats would be the equivalent of adding pollinator gardens to over half of all the single family homes in the entire state!

If you want to sign the pollinator pledge, which asks solar developers to include these habitats on all of their ground mounted arrays, click here.

Department of Commerce Announces 2016 MIM Incentives Solar News | The Minnesota Department of Commerce announced today what the incentive amounts would be for the Made in Minnesota solar panels in 2016 for the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program.

The solar incentive program is available to customers of electric utilities who install solar electric systems using panels certified as manufactured in Minnesota. Modules from four Minnesota companies—tenKsolar, Silicon Energy, Heliene and Itek Energy—have been certified for the program to date.

2016 Solar Incentive Amounts Commercial For Profit—for systems less than 40 kW Silicon Energy Voyageur Module = $.23/kWh tenKsolar Module XT-A = $.13/kWh Heliene Modules = $.13/kWh Itek Energy Module = $.18/kWh

Tax Exempt/Nonprofit/Government—for systems less than 40 kW Silicon Energy Voyageur Module = $.25/kWh tenKsolar Module XT-A = $.15/kWh

Heliene Modules = $.15/kWh Itek Energy Module = $.20/kWh

Residential—for systems less than 10 kW Silicon Energy Voyageur Module = $.30/kWh tenKsolar Module XT-A = $.23/kWh Heliene Modules = $.23/kWh Itek Energy Module = $.27/kWh Incentives for PV systems are performance based and are paid out over a 10 year span. Incentive amounts vary based on manufacturers’ costs and other criteria.

More information on Made in Minnesota program is available on the Commerce website. Questions can be directed to the Department of Commerce Energy Information Line: 651-539-1886 or toll free at 1-800-657-3710.

INDIANA BASED INOVATEUS SOLAR INSTALLS SOLAR ARRAYS FOR HOOSIER ENERGY SOUTH BEND, Ind., Oct. 7, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --Inovateus Solar, a national provider of solar energy services, announced today it is installing two solar arrays for electric cooperative power supplier Hoosier Energy. The arrays will serve utility customers in central and southern Indiana. The project is part of Hoosier Energy's plan to add ten, one-megawatt arrays across member service territories.

The first project was completed in August and sits on a nine-acre site near mile marker 122 on Interstate 70 in New Castle, Indiana. The second is located along Interstate 69 near Bloomfield, Indiana, in Greene County and was completed in September. Each 1-MW solar array consists of 4,320 solar panels designed to increase power production by following the sun as it rises and sets.

"The solar program is part of Hoosier Energy's all-of-the-above strategy to provide the best balance for an affordable power supply," said Heath Norrick, Manager of Renewable Energy for Hoosier Energy.

Inovateus Solar is now collaborating with other cooperative and municipal utilities across the country.

"Solar now works in Middle America and is truly coast-to-coast. We now have a model where utility-scale solar is affordable everywhere. Co-ops and municipalities represent their members and are giving the power back to the people. After all, the sun shines on everyone," said Inovateus Solar President TJ Kanczuzewski.

INOVATEUS SOLAR PARTICIPATES ON DISCUSSION ABOUT THE STATUS AND FUTURE OF CHILE'S ENERGY MARKET Santiago de Chile, June 19, 2015 – Inovateus Solar, a national provider of solar energy services, participated in a Round Table discussion hosted by the Institute of the Americas, regarding the current status, and future, of the Chilean energy market. Conrad Chase from Inovateus Solar shared the table with senior authorities in the Chilean energy sector, which included EC-L, Sempra Energy, AES, and The Chilean Ministry of Energy. "We see Chile as new growth market as the tax incentives in the USA are reduced in 2016", says Chase. "Identifying projects with strong

PPA offtakers will be key to our success in Chile." Today, Inovateus is developing a strong pipeline of solar projects throughout Chile, and expects to being construction of those projects in 2015.

We need 250 Votes for a chance at Winning $100,000 We could really use your help! We are competing in Chase Bank’s “Mission Mainstreet Grants” for a chance at winning $100,000 of grant funding. To put that in perspective, that’s enough money for a year of operation of our company, and enough to get us off the ground, and get our products approved for the US market. Voting is free, and if you think about it your vote is worth about $400! So please take two minutes and vote for us!

How do Grid Tied Solar Panels work?

When installing a system you should really decide between one of two methods: Grid-Tied, or Off-Grid. Off-Grid solar panel systems are an entirely bootstrapped system in that they are capable of carrying the full power load or consumption of a building without the help of any other supplemental system like the power grid. These may be advantageous for small things in remote areas like fountain pumps or weather sensors in remote locations, or even cabins by a lake in the woods. The only issue with Off-grid systems are the expenses necessary to set them up for something like a house can dwarf the costs for a similar grid-tied system on a suburban home with utility power service. This is because for an Off-grid system you need: 1. Solar panels (10 or 20 250Watt Solar Panels) 2. A large battery bank (20+ Deep Cycling Lead Acid Batteries) 3. A large charge controller 4. A large inverter (2 kW+) 5. Rackmount 6. Special wiring However for a similar Grid-Tied solar panel system you may only need: 1.

2.

Solar Panels (Similar Quantity to above) Microinverter (One 250Watt Microinverter per solar panel, or Two Solar panels per One 500 Watt Microinverter.)

3. AC Disconnect Switch (Typically required for grid integration) Grid Tied solar panels happen to offer lots of benefits over traditional solar panel systems. As you can see above they require about half the hardware, which can reduce cost, and they can also be built in segments or smaller systems, and then scaled up over time. A grid tied system really just works to supplement the power that you buy from the utility company and offset the energy you buy. Also you don’t have to have your system planned out like an Off-grid system. If you use more energy than you’re expecting with your Off-grid system you might actually deplete your batteries and have your system go offline. However with a grid-tied system, any energy you don’t generate can be bought from the utility at the normal electricity rate. Then with net metering if you generate more energy during the peak hours of the day you can actually sell that energy back to the utility which will offset, or pay for the energy you have to buy at night.

Because of the simplicity inherent with grid-tied solar panel systems they can also be installed by Do it

Use Mobile Solar to Prepare for Power Outages Mobile Solar Applications can help meet your power needs if you are affected by strong storms, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters.

For emergencies that are more of a man-made nature — widespread power grid failure or civil disorder, for example — this type of alternative power source can be invaluable for keeping you and your family safe and comfortable.

Emergency Lighting and Communication When the power goes out, emergency lighting is a top priority. Homes and businesses, of course, need lighting, but power also is needed to provide light to emergency operations centers and roadways.

A variety of portable solar lighting options is available to meet individual and community needs. Small personal lights, such as LED solar-powered flashlights and lanterns, can be used inside or outside. Large-scale portable photovoltaic systems can be used for lighting at mass care points and emergency shelters.

While cell phone service and Wi-Fi communications may not go down with every power outage, it can happen, as seen in the case of this summer’s wildfires in California. Communities can use mobile solar devices, including changeable message signs and highway advisory radios, to convey important information and to manage traffic in an emergency situation. Portable solar communication repeaters can be used to extend the range of hand-held radios.

Mobile Solar Arrays and Laminates for Vehicles Although photovoltaic power may not yet be a viable solution for powering vehicles, mobile solar can be effectively used to power the electronics inside the vehicle. Police, fire and emergency medical service vehicles installed with rooftop arrays or laminates can easily be used to coordinate response and recovery operations in an outage because their captured solar energy can power laptops, lights and radios, and charge other necessary electronic devices.

Portable Solar Generators Portable solar generators are perhaps the most useful mobile solar application in a power outage. A variety of sizes and configurations are available, from smaller 100-watt generators that can power some electronics, appliances and lights, to generators as large as 4 kilowatts.

Generators designed for large-scale use are ideal for emergency operations and outages following a natural disaster, as they are easy to transport to triage or treatment points and shelters. Large generators can provide abundant electrical power, running critical devices, equipment, lighting and machinery, and even powering water pumps.

Portable solar applications can provide a dependable source of electrical power to homes, businesses and communities when the power goes out. With photovoltaic power, electricity is always readily available.

The Financial Benefits of Solar Energy The financial benefits of solar energy are becoming increasingly apparent. Many people think that the best reason for going solar is to help the environment, but a great number of savvy consumers choose this alternative energy source for its impressive financial advantages. Solar energy can save homeowners and business owners a significant amount of money. Here’s how.

Reducing Bills and Stabilizing Energy Costs An average residential electric bill in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and most other states in the Intermountain West ranges from about $100 to several hundred dollars each month. For commercial customers, that number can reach into the tens of thousands. If you install a solar energy system, that’s how much you’ll save each month. Potential cost savings equate to thousands of dollars a year for even the most modest consumer.

And, even better, you’ll be locking in your price for energy costs for the next several decades. Utility rates have steadily increased over the past 30 years, and they will continue to rise, unabated. By making the move to solar now, you’ll stabilize your energy costs, and every time the rates go up, you’ll save even more.

Adding Value to the Home Installing a solar energy system increases the property resale value of your home in almost every case.

Photovoltaic panels make your home more attractive to potential buyers because of the obvious cost savings.

According to research by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar panels typically sell up to 20 percent faster than other comparable homes without panels. And, what’s more, they sell for up to 17 percent more money. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the price of an average home increases by $17,000 when solar panels are installed. By adding value and salability to the home, the panels practically pay for themselves.

Tax Credits and Financial Incentives for Going Solar The cost of residential panel systems varies significantly, depending upon the size of the solar array and whether the system is tied to the grid. But you can actually get 30 percent of your equipment and installation costs back in the form of a federal tax credit. Combine that financial incentive with state and local rebates and grants, and you can end up paying up to 50 percent less for your system.

If your power company follows net metering guidelines (most do), the utility is required to purchase your excess power at a wholesale rate. This offers you the very real possibility of earning a profit as the result of adopting solar.

Honoring Our Veterans through Jobs in Solar Energy Posted on November 10, 2015 by IREC Admin

by Dr. Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall Deputy Secretary of Energy On Veterans Day, we honor the more than 21 million living American veterans. Here at the Department of Energy, we are honored to have the opportunity to express our gratitude to veterans of previous wars, welcome home those who have recently served, and thank the future veterans who still stand sentry for our nation.

To play our part in appreciating our service members, the Department of Energy is working hard to open doors to career opportunities for veterans in the dynamic solar industry, which now employs more than 174,000 people — more than auto and light truck manufacturing — and has been adding jobs 20 times faster than the wider economy. Already, we are proud that veterans make up more than 10 percent of the solar industry workforce.

To build on this strong trend, last year the Department of Energy launched the Solar Ready Vets pilot program to provide veterans transitioning out of the military and into civilian life with the skills they need to enter the rapidly growing solar industry. The program provides training to our service members just prior to their leaving active duty and helps prepare them for jobs as installers, inspectors, electricians, sales representatives and a number of other roles.

BOARD ACTION: Board approves assistance for Kraft Heinz retention project in Davenport Economic Development Board approves assistance for Kraft Heinz retention project in Davenport Company plans $200 million investment in state-of-the-art facility

November 5, 2015 (DES MOINES, IA) – The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) board today approved a High Quality Jobs Program (HQJ) award to Kraft Heinz Foods Company to construct a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Davenport.

Earlier this year, H.J. Heinz Holding Corporation and Kraft Foods Group, Inc. consummated a merger to form The Kraft Heinz Company. The Kraft Heinz Company is the third-largest food and beverage company in North America and the fifth-largest food and beverage company in the world. Some of the Company's brands include Kraft, Heinz, ABC, Capri Sun, Classico, Jell-O, Kool-Aid, Lunchables, Maxwell House, Ore-Ida, Oscar Mayer, Philadelphia, Planters, Plasmon, Quero, Weight Watchers Smart Ones and Velveeta.

Currently, Kraft Heinz’s Davenport facility manufactures Oscar Mayer products and is the largest bologna plant in the world. Initially built in 1915, Kraft Heinz purchased the facility from Kohr’s Packing Company in 1946. Located along the riverfront, this historic facility is not optimally designed for 21st century food manufacturing. As part of the merger, Kraft Heinz had been evaluating its North American facilities to optimize its operations.

“We are glad that Davenport, Iowa, was able to successfully compete for a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that will certainly position it for future growth,” said Debi Durham. “As major brands merge in this sector, consolidation and modernization will be the outcome.”

The incentives awarded to Kraft Heinz today include modest tax benefits in the amount of $1.75 million and direct financial assistance in the amount of $3 million that can only be used by the company to demolish the existing facility and create a development-ready site that is marketable for future projects. The project has a capital investment of $163 million and will retain at least 475 jobs, of which 261 are incented at a qualifying wage of $17.84 per hour.

Wabash Trace Nature Trail photo Wins Iowa Travel Guide Cover Contest Wabash Trace Nature Trail photo Wins Iowa Travel Guide Cover Contest

November 4, 2015 (Des Moines, Iowa) — After seven days of competition, fans of the Iowa Tourism Office voted to feature the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in southwest Iowa on the cover of the next Iowa Travel Guide. View the winning cover.

“Each of the four images up for consideration highlighted a spectacular place in Iowa,” said Iowa Tourism Office Manager Shawna Lode. “We’re excited to feature this colorful image of the Wabash Trace Nature Trail to showcase the many great recreational opportunities across Iowa and draw travelers into the 176 pages of travel ideas within the Iowa Travel Guide.”

You can pre-order the new Iowa Travel Guide at traveliowa.com/preorder. Inside the new guide, expect to see great content highlighting Iowa bike trails, unique Iowa souvenirs, and historic hotels, in addition to thousands of

listings for attractions, hotels, bed and breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds/RV parks. The guide will be available in early 2016.

The Iowa Travel Guide Cover Contest began last Wednesday and concluded this morning at 10 a.m. In total, 4,035 votes were cast with the Wabash Trace Nature Trail image receiving 1,830 votes. Other images under consideration depicted a scenic overlook of Effigy Mounds National Monument near Harpers Ferry, Roseman Covered Bridge in Madison County and hikers in the Loess Hills.

Tourism in Iowa generates more than $8.06 billion in expenditures, employs 66,500 people statewide and generates $374 million in state taxes. The Iowa Tourism Office is part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority. For more information, visit traveliowa.com, call 800.345.IOWA FREE, or stop at any Iowa Welcome Center. Travelers can find additional Iowa travel inspiration on the Iowa Tourism Office blog, Facebook page,Twitter feed, Pinterest boards, Google+ page, Instagram, or YouTube channel.

Will HECO’s Plan For Its Own Solar Plant Help or Hurt Hawaii Consumers?

Hawaiian Electric Co. wants to own and operate its own solar farm, a first for the electric utility that has historically relied on independent developers for renewable energy.

The utility’s entry into the solar market could help lower energy costs for consumers by reducing costs associated with buying power from outside companies — it essentially cuts out the middleman.

The business strategy could also boost HECO’s financial security as it wrestles with an exodus of residents and businesses switching to rooftop solar. That’s cut into HECO’s electricity sales and raised questions about the company’s long-term future.

But HECO’s plans are also sending ripples through Hawaii’s burgeoning solar sector. Some companies are worried that a major HECO solar operation will reduce market competition and give the utility an unfair advantage over independent solar companies.

A Conflict of Interest?

HECO’s solar plan includes a 15-megawatt facility near its Kahe Generating Station. The proposal, which would be the largest solar farm in the state, is currently being reviewed by the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission.

HECO’s turn toward operating it’s own renewable energy plants is being met with mixed reactions from clean energy advocates, however.

“The community has been asking the utility to get into the renewable energy business for decades,” said Jeff Mikulina, executive director of Blue Planet Foundation, a clean energy advocacy organization. “Finally, here they are saying we are here and we want to do this,” But at the same time, Mikulina says that the utility should be investing in technologies that allow the utility to absorb more solar and wind energy instead.

“As we see the utility of the future, it is really in investing in those areas of grid modernization and storage and things that will enable more clean energy,” said Mikulina.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is already struggling with how to integrate more solar and wind energy into its isolated grids on Oahu, the Big Island and Maui County without destabilizing power flow.

Last week, HECO CEO Richard Rosenblum told a sustainability conference organized by the University of Hawaii’s Sea Grant Program and U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz that the utility’s future business model will mirror that of the online company Amazon.

HECO has traditionally owned and maintained oil-fired generators and distributed electricity through a system of transmission lines that it also owns.

“We are talking about a vastly changed system where we are not the only player,” he told conference attendees.

“We are the player that helps the other players get their job done.”

In many ways, HECO has already moved in that direction, purchasing solar, wind, geothermal and hydroelectric power from companies throughout the islands and distributing it to customers.

But actually owning and operating the renewable energy systems is a new strategy.

The Hawaii Solar Energy Association has opposed the plan. The trade group worries that it will disrupt the solar market, sending it out of balance.

But Joseph Saturnia, president of Honolulu’s Island Pacific Energy, says that while HECO’s entry into solar presents the appearance of a conflict of interest, there are benefits to the model, namely cheaper solar energy for consumers. Saturnia’s company bid on building the Kahe solar project, but was beat out by SolarCity.

“It appears that it is good for the ratepayers in the sense that it sounds like they are constructing a project for cheaper than what the private market is doing,” he said. “But I think the danger is we want to be careful that we don’t get into a situation where the utility can use their sheer size in the marketplace to dominate it.”

He said that’s a particular concern as Hawaii tries to move toward a more competitive model that brings down electricity rates.

“The question is, does this move us down the path of less competition? I don’t know,” he said.

How Low Can Solar Prices Go? The cost for renewable energy projects on the mainland average about 12 cents a kilowatt hour, but rates in Hawaii have been hovering around 34 cents to 42 cents a kilowatt hour.

In recent years, HECO has been signing contracts for wind and solar farms at prices above 20 cents a kilowatt hour, or just slightly less than what it costs to produce electricity from oil.

The prices for solar and wind in Hawaii have been as much as double those on the mainland.

HECO’s Rosenblum told Civil Beat last week that there are a number of reasons for Hawaii’s high prices. The state doesn’t have a “workably competitive market” with an unlimited amount of bidders, land is scarce and more expensive, there are smaller projects so economies of scale are lost and labor and construction costs tend to be higher, he said.

But how much higher should they be?

HECO’s Kahe solar project is priced at 14.5 cents a kilowatt hour over 20 years. This is slightly less than prices for nine other solar projects that independent solar companies hope to build — the average price is 15.8 cents per kilowatt hour.

HECO is hoping to get all of the projects exempted from the state’s competitive bidding requirement and has submitted them to the PUC for review. So far, three of the projects have gotten approval to move forward with negotiations, said HECO spokesman Peter Rosegg.

HECO asked companies to submit project proposals that came in under 16 cents a kilowatt hour.

And the utility has said that it’s own solar project in Kahe also acts as a check on prices from independent solar companies.

“I think there is some truth to that,” said Mikulina. “But the market is getting a lot more competitive and it is a pretty diverse ecosystem.”

Severin Borenstein, co-director at the University of California Berkeley’s Energy Institute, says that utilities in California have been getting solar bids at 7 cents a kilowatt hour. He told Civil Beat that prices in Hawaii shouldn’t be that much higher.

“There’s probably some difference in labor and siting costs. But it shouldn’t be a 100 percent difference,” he said, pointing to HECO’s current pricing for it’s Kahe solar plant.

He said the cost might make sense if it didn’t include federal and state tax incentives, which greatly reduce project costs.

Rosegg said that the pricing for the Kahe solar project, as well as its nine other waiver projects, factor in federal tax credits, but not state tax credits.1 The cost for HECO’s Kahe power also takes into account the price HECO had to pay to acquire the land it will be built on, Rosenblum said last week.

Saturnia said that makes sense.

“If they are going to take the land and lock it up for 20 years, they can’t build on it, sell it, etcetera,” he said. “I don’t see anything wrong in doing it that way.”

UPDATE: After this story was published, Rosegg said that the Kahe solar price does not include any “lost opportunity value” for the land.” He said Rosenbaum’s comments were likely misconstrued.

Jeff Ono, Hawaii’s consumer advocate, said he didn’t want to comment on HECO’s Kahe solar project because it’s still pending PUC approval.

But in general, he said, energy developers are making more money off of energy projects in Hawaii than on the mainland.

“Their rate of return is greater over here than they are on the mainland,” he said. “Is that appropriate given the amount of risk involved? That is a difficult question to answer.”

Charlie’s in Rehab: Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport Taxiway C Rehabilitation A JRE Crew led by foreman Tom Taylor is working against the clock to rehabilitate Taxiway Charlie at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, completing the electrical work in time for paving before winter.

At the end of October, JRE started the demolition of existing light fixtures and wiring, installation of all new taxiway edge lights, lighted signs, and all the associated underground infrastructure for the first phase, which makes up a little more than half of the five-phase project. When this phase is complete, Taxiway C will have over 130 new edge lights and more than 25 new signs to guide aircraft as they taxi to and from the runway. The crew will return in the spring to finish out the project, replacing the edge lights and signs on the rest of Taxiway C. The timeline isn’t the only challenge on this project; the crew is drilling foundation holes that overlap, but don’t line up entirely, with the holes left by demolition. “The auger wants to follow the original hole,” says JRE Project Manager Jeremy Rowley, “The placement was wrong before and we’ve got to correct it and get these foundations perfect.”

Precision is paramount in edge lighting and airport guidance signs because pilots rely on these lights and signs to outline the taxiway and navigate their aircraft at night and in low-visibility conditions.

Volunteers had a successful weekend at HopeWell Ranch A group of nearly twenty J. Ranck Electric employees, friends, and family volunteered this past weekend at HopeWell Ranch on Saturday and Sunday, working both around the ranch and inside the new arena.

While some volunteers were working in the garden, building a fence, and cleaning troughs, others were installing conduit, wire, and lights in the 20,000 square foot Legacy Arena. They were able to jump into conduit and wiring this weekend since volunteers Chad Tubbs and Jon Hubbell had already built the service.

“It’s so amazing to see how many different people have come together to make ‘Operation Light the Legacy’ happen. If we go back to when we really started this project it was a little over nine months ago so it’s kind of like a day of birth for the arena,” says HopeWell Ranch founder Jodi Stuber, “It brought tears to my eyes when they turned on the first lights.”

We got way more done than I expected. If we hit it hard one more weekend with a good sized crew, we could knock it out,” says JRE project manager Jamie Mann, who is serving as a working foreman on the Legacy Arena project.

What’s next?

We will go back to HopeWell on October 17th and 18th continue work on the Legacy Arena. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Angie Wood. When we return, we will tackle the remaining electrical work:

– Install approximately 800 additional feet of conduit – Hang 23 more lights – Connect 14 receptacles – Put up the contactor and wiring for switching – Install 3 exit signs, 6 exterior lights, and inside emergency lighting Thank you to everyone who came out to HopeWell this weekend and volunteered: Nick Batterbee, Kate Blasius, Pat Cook, Deanna Fountain, Charlie Glynn, Jamie Mann, Klay, Alex, and Noah Northrup, Jim Ranck, Jim Shea, Matt Southwick, Doug Stickley, Mike Wesolek, Angie, Ryan, and Ella Wood and to both Titan Equipment and Alta Equipment for graciously donating the use of their lifts.