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THE FIRST WORD
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Brad Dore SMA America Scott Franklin Lumos Solar Rick Gilbert Solar Source Natalie Holtgrefe Boston Solar Jim Jenal Run on Sun Wendi Littlefield SunLink Meghan VincentJones Quick Mount PV Scott Wiater Standard Solar
Solar will remain strong in 2017 With the industry expected install more solar in 2016 (10 GW) than in any previous year, and with a clear path to 2022 under our feet—thanks to an extended ITC—it’s a great time to be in solar. I say this with confidence, despite concern that renewable energy development won’t prosper—and may even come to a halt—under the new presidency. For every commentary igniting panic over possible solar and wind policy repeals, I’ve read another instilling faith in the strength of both markets and their bipartisan support. Having heard out both opinions, I tend to side with the latter. True, the new administration could slash renewable energy tax credits, revoke programs and ignore recommendations, guidance and goals of the previous office. This would certainly hurt the pace of renewable development but definitely not destroy it. Perhaps eight years ago the absence of a federal focus on renewables could have devastated solar energy growth. But if it happened today, the market will survive—we’re so established that we could take the hit. While we still have educating to do, solar is no longer such a blue versus red issue. I remember former SEIA President Rhone Resch touting, “We’re not an issue, we’re an industry.” Based on the number of representatives from both parties I see supporting renewables, this idea is catching on. Studies, such as those from the Pew Research Center, confirm that most Republicans and Democrats favor expanding renewables. Renewable development does help combat climate change, but politicians and citizens alike are also seeing it create energy
@SolarKathi eZ @SolarPowerWo rl d
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independence, dependable jobs and additional electricity for our increasing population. Yet, we can’t be blind to industry challenges. Cheap PPAs in the utility market are making it more difficult to be profitable. Investorowned utilities in California are set with enough renewables to fulfill RPS obligations through the next few years. It’s clear the industry needs to find ways to reignite procurement. Offsite commercial solar—community solar, virtual NEM and offsite wholesale projects—is expected to grow fourfold over 2015, according to GTM Research, but onsite commercial development is still challenging. Solar may be booming, but it’s getting more difficult and expensive to find residential solar leads. This issue’s special business section provides insight into ways to overcome these challenges. Barry Cinnamon of Cinnamon Solar gave the industry a “pep talk” in a recent blog. To keep the momentum around solar going, Cinnamon said we need to do “more of what our industry has been doing for the past two decades. We need to continue to reduce costs, we need to create more domestic jobs, and we need to do a much better job educating the ‘red’ states and new policymakers about the benefits of solar.” If you watched Michelle Obama’s December television interview with Oprah Winfrey, you may have caught her overarching theme of “hope.” She stressed the importance of thinking positively and supporting the new administration, saying, “What else do you have if you don’t have hope?... The words that we say moving forward—all of us—it matters, which is one of the reasons Barack and I are so supportive of this transition, because no matter how we felt going into it, it is important for the health of this nation that we support the commander-in-chief…So we are going to be there for the next president and do whatever we have to do to make sure that he is successful, because if he succeeds we all succeed.” I think that if we, as an industry, do our best to follow her lead, solar will succeed too. SPW
M anag i ng E d i t o r K ath ie Z ip p k zi p p @ w t w h m e d i a .c o m
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CONTENTS
Ja n ua r y 2 0 1 7 • vol 7 n o 1 w w w. so l ar p o w e r w o rl do nl in e .co m
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ON THE COVER ON THE COVER Using module-level power electronics (MLPE), like Tigo Energy’s power optimizers shown in our cover image, in PV arrays is the easiest way to comply with National Electrical Code 2017 changes in reference to rapid shutdown.
4 FIRST WORD 9 NEWS BRIEFS 50 CONTRACTORS CORNER 6
SOLAR POWER WORLD
Table of Contents 1-17 Solar_Vs3.indd 6
PROJECTS
10 20 50
10 CASE STUDY
Cranberry bogs and solar power make a surprisingly good couple
TECHNOLOGY
14 NEED TO KNOW
The NEC 2017 changes coming to a jobsite near you
20 PANELS
24 INVERTERS
26 MOUNTING
30 STORAGE
With Tesla’s marketing support, it’s a brand new year for the solar roof A new system quickly installs bifacial modules on sloped roofs
Inverters and other power electronics are leading the way to meet NEC 2017 Repurposed electric vehicle batteries find their way into solar
SPECIAL BUSINESS SECTION:
35 DO BETTER BUSINESS NOW
52 ASK A VET 88 AD INDEX
1 • 2017
9
With the extension of the ITC now a long-gone worry, you’re free to focus on growing your business, whether that’s by entering new markets, forming new relationships or taking time for online marketing.
www.solarpowerworldonline.com
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[NEWS BRIEFS]
Solar around the U.S.
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A guide to recent projects, legislation and research throughout the country
A solar installation in downtown Anchorage was commissioned on winter solstice, one of the darkest weeks of the year. The installation, designed by Arctic Solar Ventures, will supply 15% of the 20,000 square-foot commercial office space’s annual energy usage, significantly reducing its overall annual energy costs. Alaska receives roughly the same amount of annual solar energy potential as Germany, which has more than six times the amount of installed solar than the United States.
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Lighthouse Solar is installing solar on 32 homes in a neighborhood in San Antonio, Texas. The Austinbased installer will pair APsystems microinverters with Phono Solar modules.
Incentive program feeds consumer interest San Antonio, Texas
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New solar financing council Washington, D.C. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and the Solar Energy Finance Association (SEFA) are joining forces and forming a new entity under SEIA to support wide-scale, lowcost solar deployment through better access to investment capital. Under SEIA, the two entities will better serve their membership and act as a single voice and organizing force for current and potential solar developers, investors and lenders.
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Arizona ends net metering Arizona Arizona utility regulators voted to end its net metering late last December, drastically reducing export rates. Though current solar customers will be grandfathered at current rates for 20 years from interconnection, new customers will only be granted 10 years. Critics fear the move will end mainstream solar in what has been one of the largest residential solar states.
The San Antonio solar market is on fire. About 207 MW were installed statewide in 2015, according to Environment Texas. Solar advocates credit a successful incentive program, which has fed consumer interest despite the state not having a net-metering law. The market ranked sixth nationally for metropolitan growth in 2015 and seventh for the spread of solar, setting the pace for the Lone Star State.
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Solar Power Colorado Broomfield, Colorado Join COSEIA for its Solar Power Colorado show March 13 through 15. According to SEIA, over the next five years, Colorado is expected to install 1,878 MW of solar electric capacity, ranking the state 12th over that time. This amount is more than five times the amount of solar installed over the last five years. Come be part of this exciting industry.
News in Brief_1-17_Vs2kp.indd 9
Ohio governor vetoes renewable energy freeze Columbus, Ohio Ohio Gov. John Kasich vetoed legislation that would have allowed investor-owned utilities to avoid making renewable energy investments for another two years. Kasich said he credits Ohio’s wide range of energy generation options as helping grow state jobs over the last six years. Hundreds of companies are involved in Ohio’s wind and solar markets.
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Solar power on the darkest day of the year Anchorage, Alaska
Hawaii sees first rate increase in six years Honolulu, Hawaii In an effort to invest in grid infrastructure, The Hawaiian Electric Co. proposed its first rate increase in six years, almost 7%. The company said the request, which equates to about $106 million, is necessary to upgrade O’ahu’s grid and to integrate more solar. Increasing energy rates are thought to make energy storage and customer compensation for their own energy more attractive.
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Vermont utility lets customers go off grid Vermont Vermont utility Green Mountain Power is offering customers customizable packages of battery storage, solar and home automation to provide them the chance to go off grid. The utility said it made the move to help homes and businesses increase energy independence and reduce carbon emissions. The utility encouraging more customers to go off grid may also let the utility retire sections of the grid to reduce maintenance costs and, in turn, costs for customers.
1 • 2017
SOLAR POWER WORLD
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KELLY PICKEREL
PROJECTS
MANAGING EDITOR
SOLAR MISSION:
IMPOSSIBLE?
A Massachusetts cranberry bog shows that installing solar on usable farmland is sometimes worthwhile
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PROJECTS
ranberry bogs and solar installations at first seem like a weird combination. Why crowd usable farmland with solar? One bog in Carver, Massachusetts, proved the relationship could work. A 1.1-MW ground-mount sits atop the plants because shade actually creates an ideal growing environment for the cranberries underneath. The land now has a dual purpose—growing fruit at a more productive rate while also generating solar power. Although this solarized cranberry bog is not the flooded-type that Ocean Spray commercials have familiarized, owner Mike Paduch does use the land to grow healthy plants that are later transplanted to other bogs for harvest. So while there isn’t a sea of floating red berries underneath the solar array, there are living, growing plants that need careful attention. Cranberries grow on vines low to the ground and can survive only under specific conditions. They thrive in wetlands layered with peat soil, sand, clay and gravel during an April to November growing season. Air pockets inside the berries allow them to float, which is why most bogs are flooded to more easily separate the berries from the vines during harvest. These unique growing conditions, and the fact that the bog in Carver was already planted with live vines, made the installation of a solar array slightly tricky. “One of our main concerns was the timing of the install,” said Dan Girard, director of EPC and global business development at S&C Electric Company, which was the EPC on the project. “It was explained to us by the owner of the site that in spring, plants are more flexible, as compared to summer or fall when the plant becomes more brittle and more substantial damage could occur.” Pile driving had to be done earlier in the year so as not to damage or break the cranberry vines on the functioning bog. Local contractor Synergy Solar assisted with the installation. President Noah Jones said the project was challenging because of the logistics— machines had to be carefully moved around the living plants.
The largest challenge on this project was the tight, confined space. We had to protect the live plants.
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PROJECTS
Fast. Simple. Durable.
“The largest challenge on this project was the tight, confined space,” Jones said. “We had to protect the live plants. We had to use a matting for the machinery. Any time we moved a machine, we had to make sure we had matting under it so it didn’t rip up or damage the plants. We had to have a decent force of manpower just to move the matting.” However, the layered ground conditions provided a silver lining for positioning piles. “In New England, we typically run into a lot of refusals when we run the piles,” Jones said. “Cranberry bogs are mostly sand. This was pretty easy to do.” Although a smooth installation, the piles did have to go a bit deeper than normal for a secure foundation. Jones said RBI Solar’s ground-mount system used on the project was easily adaptable to depth differences. “The advantage to RBI is their ability to change their post lengths to get different embedment depths. That was useful,” he said. “The ability to change as
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PROJECTS
we’re going [and] re-engineer on the fly is critical at an installation like this.” S&C’s Girard said the arrays were designed to be higher than standard rack level for future harvest and flooding considerations. The project, which was completed in 2016, is owned by Connecticutbased Lodestar Energy, a long-time S&C partner. Astronergy 310-W modules and Yaskawa - Solectria Solar string inverters were also used. Although initially assumed to be an impossible installation combination, cranberry bogs and solar prove to be a good working pair. Installing solar on usable farmland doesn’t necessarily mean giving up growing. Use that fun fact to start a conversation over the cranberry sauce at the next Thanksgiving. SPW
The ability to change as we’re going [and] re-engineer on the fly is critical at an installation like this.
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Projects Cranberries_1-17_Vs2kp.indd 13
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What solar contractors NEED TO KNOW about NEC 2017 The 2017 triennial update of the National Electrical Code (NEC) is complete and has been released for adoption. Though AHJs may take months or years to adopt the latest edition (California won’t adopt the 2017 NEC until 2020), it’s important for solar contractors to know what’s coming. Here’s an overview of the changes that will have the most impact on solar installation.
Rapid shutdown expands Probably the most argued change to
the 2017 NEC is in article 690.12, Rapid Shutdown System (RSS). Compared with the 2014 RSS, the 2017 edition is much more proscriptive and, more importantly, will usually require module-level isolation for compliance. What’s changed: All PV system conductors are now controlled conductors. The limitation placed on a conductor depends on its location in relation to the PV array boundary or point of entry into a building. The PV array boundary is
NEC Adoption by State
located 1 ft from the PV array measured in any direction. Conductors inside this area, or less than 3 ft from point of entry into a building, must be reduced to 80 V or less within 30 seconds of RSS initiation. Conductors outside this area, or more than 3 ft from the point of entry into a building, must be reduced to 30 V or less within 30 seconds of RSS initiation. Impact on installation: There are three options for complying with RSS inside the PV array boundary:
Revised — January 2017
Map courtesy of nema.org
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1 • 2017
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PROJECTS
1.
The PV array can be listed or fieldlabeled as a RSS PV array. 2. Conductors will be limited to 80 V within 30 seconds of initiation of RSS. 3. If the PV array has no exposed wiring, no exposed conductive parts, is not closer than 8 ft to any other exposed grounded conductive parts and at least 8 ft from the ground, then compliance with RSS is not required.
Residential Installations
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Option 1 is not yet available because the standard has not been developed. Option 3 would require raceway for all wiring in the PV array up to the PV module junction box, which few PV modules currently support. But the other requirements could be met with existing equipment. This leaves option 2 as the one most likely to be used to comply. The requirement is two part, first the 80 V limit and second is the 30-second timeout. The 80 V limit will require breaking up higher voltage strings into segments that are 80 V or less. Because almost all modules have a temperature-corrected Voc of more than 40 V, each module must be isolated. This can be accomplished by many means including microinverters, DC-DC converters or simple remote controlled contactors. The compounding factor is the 30-second timeout. If the array is disconnected from an inverter, the voltage on the conductor can take several minutes to decay below 80 V on its own due to the DC input capacitors in the inverter. Active discharge of the voltage, or a contactor internal to the inverter, is usually required to meet the 30-second requirement, which means that putting a disconnect on the module alone is usually not enough to provide a compliant system. The RSS system must also address the inverter discharge. While in the 2014 NEC there was no prescriptive requirement for initiation, the requirements for RSS initiation are called out in detail in the 2017 NEC. Basically, there will be three ways to initiate RSS as outlined in 690.11(C): 1.
Service disconnect, in which removing utility power to the main service panel would initiate RSS.
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PROJECTS
2. PV system disconnect, disconnecting the PV system would initiate RSS. 3. A stand-alone RSS initiation switch. It’s anticipated that simply removing utility power will initiate RSS in most PV systems without any backup power functionality. This is the simplest method to achieve compliance. With the growing use of energy storage or direct PV system backup power without storage, allowing the PV system to provide backup power RSS initiation will require the use of option 3 with a shutdown initiation switch.
System grounding redefined Significant changes have been made to the wording concerning system grounding, but this will actually have little impact on how systems are installed.
What’s changed: With the advent of non-isolated inverter designs that do not allow for DC system grounding, a new term “functional grounded” has been introduced. This is defined in the NEC as, “A PV system that has an electrical reference to ground that is not solidly grounded.” The term “electrical reference to ground” is not defined but is basically a system designed to detect when there is a failure in the insulation of any ungrounded conductor, raise an alert and shut down the PV system. This is a sea change in system grounding design because much of what was previously defined as solidly grounded in the DC circuits is now functional grounded and is installed in much the same way as an ungrounded system. In the process, 690.5, describing GFDI, has been moved to 690.41(B), and GFDI will now be another form of functional
grounding. Section 690.41(A) lists the acceptable forms of PV array system grounding with 690.41(A)(6) being a catchall to allow for new equipment. Equipment grounding is not affected by any of these changes. The only solidly grounded PV systems will be small systems allowed by the 690.41(B) exception. Impact on installation: For most PV arrays, functional grounding will be provided by the inverter. DC circuits will be installed as functional grounded circuits with no conductor marked as a grounded conductor, similar to ungrounded systems. Disconnects will open both current carrying conductors, and section 690.9(C) will require an overcurrent protection device (OCPD) only on one polarity of the circuit—the positive or negative—as long as all OCPDs are in the same polarity of the circuit.
www.ryancompany.net | 303.459.8300 1 • 2017
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Section 690.47 covering the grounding electrode system has been significantly simplified from prior NEC cycles to take advantage of the new functional grounded type of system grounding.
Other NEC changes worth noting Section 690.7(A)(3) was added to allow a PV system 100 kW or larger to have the maximum PV array voltage calculated under the supervision of an electrical engineer using methods other than the lowest expected ambient temperature. Section 690.31(C) will now allow the use of USE-2 as well as PV wire as single conductor in PV arrays with any type of system grounding. Section 690.47(D) requiring an additional auxiliary grounding electrode has moved to 690.47(B) and has been made optional.
Section 705.12(B)(2)(3)(d) provided a method for interconnecting to centerfed panelboards using the 120% busbar rating allowance instead of requiring engineering review. This change will also be made to the 2014 NEC. Section 705.12(B)(6), the requirement for AFCI protection of microinverter AC circuits, has been deleted. This change
will also be made to the 2014 NEC. Section 310.15(B)(3)(c) requiring temperature correction for conductors in raceway exposed to sunlight has been significantly simplified. It now only applies if the raceway is mounted closer to the roof than 7/8 in. and the correction is 33°C. Because most standoffs are going to be higher than this, temperature correction will rarely be a factor. Section 312.8(B) was added to provide requirements for the addition of power monitoring equipment such as CTs to switch or OCPD enclosures. Because PV monitoring system CTs are often added to the PV AC fused disconnect, this section will need to be understood to size the enclosure appropriately. You can visit nfpa.org/codes-andstandards for more information and assistance with NEC questions. SPW
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OLIVER KOEHLER
PANEL TECHNOLOGY
CEO OF SUNTEGRA
A digital mockup of a roof with Tesla solar shingles
A brand-new
year for the solar roof fter a somewhat tumultuous year for roof-integrated solar, we’re heading into 2017 with unprecedented attention and momentum. The past 12 months of lows and highs have left roof-integrated solar shingle and tile manufacturers in a better position than ever, but not without some serious whiplash. Until 2016, there was little general interest or awareness in roof-integrated solar. Most people in the solar industry considered building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) a niche market appealing to those willing to pay the markup for a more expensive and often less efficient residential solar system. Homeowners had shown interest in roofintegrated solar, but general awareness of roof-integrated options was low. With Dow Chemical’s discontinuation of its Powerhouse Solar Shingle product line in July 20
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2016, what many considered to be an already dubious market took a real delegitimizing blow. Dow joined an ever-growing list of roof-integrated solar manufacturers that could not find a path to commercial success, and the solar roof was faced with misconceived questions about its market feasibility. Dow’s failure was seen by some as a reflection of the solar shingle market as a whole, while in reality, it was due to Dow’s faulty technology strategy. Dow’s shingles used thin-film technology, which is less efficient and much more difficult to manufacture at a small scale than standard crystalline technology. Mono/polycrystalline solar shingle products currently on the market are not bound by the same price and scale restrictions. Dow’s exit certainly presents questions for the viability of thin-film as a technology strategy for emerging solar markets, but it is not indicative of slowing market demand for roof-integrated solar.
And yet, to the casual observer, roof-integrated solar might have seemed fraught with industry doubt. So when Elon Musk announced in August that Tesla was developing its own solar roof product, the solar industry was forced to consider whether roofintegrated solar will be the future of residential solar, and the general public’s awareness increased exponentially. Cue the whiplash mentioned earlier. With Musk’s announcement and subsequent unveil in October, roofintegrated solar received a major boost in market acceptance and awareness, sending customer demand skyrocketing through the end of 2016. At SunTegra alone, we saw about 300% revenue growth in Q4 over Q3, plus a huge uptick in inquiries about solar roofs submitted through our website. No longer are solar shingles being considered a niche product—the market is showing its support with tangible
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TECHNOLOGY
customer demand. And with this momentum still behind it, the solar roof market is coming out roaring in 2017 and shows no signs of slowing down. Take RnR Market Research’s 2015 BIPV study as an indication of expectations for the solar roof market. The study predicted the BIPV market would grow from $3 billion in 2015 to more than $9 billion in 2019, reaching $26 billion by 2022. According to the study, roof-integrated solar is expected to remain the largest segment of this market throughout the forecast period. Despite skeptics, the research clearly predicted a burgeoning market space for roof-integrated solar. The challenge we faced until now was consumer awareness. Looking at where we are at the beginning of 2017, having a major cleantech player like Tesla and a celebrity CEO like Musk advocating
roof-integrated solar will certainly only continue to attract the attention of the mass media and consumers. If Musk’s previous pursuits are any indication, the “Musk Effect” has a potent and tangible ability to help emerging markets explode. Electric vehicles, home battery storage— these only became modern symbols of luxury and amenity once Musk injected them with his hype and eye for design. This “Musk Effect” has already dramatically changed public perception of the once-overlooked roof-integrated solar system. With Tesla expected to launch its solar roofs at the end of summer 2017, the escalating media buzz will create more opportunity for current products on the market, including shingle and/or tile products from companies such as CertainTeed, LUMA Resources and our own SunTegra. Every Musk announcement and update will catalyze
demand and foster exponential growth in this market for many years to come. As market awareness builds through 2017, the key will be to educate consumers on the economic offerings of roof-integrated solar. Musk’s unveil might have left observers starry-eyed for 2017, but it has been noted he avoided a discussion of his product’s functionality, cost or any other financial metrics. With only an unclear implication from Musk that Tesla’s roof will cost less than a regular roof and will “by the way” produce energy savings, the fresh buzz around roof-integrated solar is ripe for education. That will be a job for solar shingle manufacturers with products currently on the market. No doubt, the selling points are there. With the price of producing crystalline technology continuing downward and efficiency on its way
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TECHNOLOGY
up, mono/polycrystalline solar roof systems are seeing an increasingly level playing field with roof-mounted solar systems. Perhaps the most compelling argument for roof-integrated solar is the savings to consumers when installed as a new roof. For a homeowner already paying for materials, labor and transportation, the difference in cost between a new roof plus solar versus solar shingles becomes negligible. A roof-integrated system saves on the racking and footings needed for conventional solar modules, as well as the cost of traditional roofing materials. For the 5 million new residential rooftops installed in the United States every year, roof-integrated solar is a no-brainer. With an aesthetically superior residential solar system on the market that makes economic sense to potential customers, the solar roof will see greater customer demand than ever before. To paraphrase Musk, who wouldn’t want a roof that looks great, saves you money and generates electricity? It’s a brand-new year for the solar roof. SPW
SunTegra tiles on a residential roof
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INVERTER TECHNOLOGY
KATHIE ZIPP
MANAGING EDITOR
Inverters are LEADING THE WAY to meeting new rapid shutdown requirements The NFPA has published the 2017 edition of the National Electrical Code, and technically, as of Jan. 1, any state could adopt the code’s new rules. However, as with any code cycle, there will be a lag in adoption. California is just beginning to enforce NEC 2014 this year. Still, any solar contractor installing on “the rooftop of an occupied building” needs to be aware of the new code changes. One of the most controversial additions to the 2017 code mandates conductors within 1 ft of the PV array boundary or point of entry into a building, or within 3 ft of an entry into a building, must be reduced to 80 V or less within 30 seconds of rapid shutdown initiation. Of the three options the 2017 code allows for compliance with rapid shutdown, the use of module level isolation is the most 24
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readily available using current equipment. Module-level isolation has been hotly debated in the industry since it was proposed during the 2017 NEC revision cycle. First responders see limiting the voltage anywhere within the array to 80 V or less as a step toward increased safety, and MLPE providers are obviously on board since their devices would be required. Other parties like SEIA, SunPower and SolarCity opposed the addition, concerned it would hamper the industry in terms of cost and reliability and not entirely convinced it makes arrays safer.
Meeting NEC 2017 rapid shutdown today While NEC 2014 rapid shutdown requirements only limited voltage for the wiring outside of a certain perimeter
around the array, NEC 2017 added detail by limiting the voltage at the module level. While there are various ways to achieve this, only one is possible with the technology and standards commercially available today—isolating or separating modules in a string through modulelevel electronics. Inverter manufacturers have taken the lead on providing solutions to meet the code. Using power optimizers or microinverters alone, or as integrated smart or AC modules, will inherently meet the code requirements. A string inverter will have to be paired with some type of module-level technology. String inverter manufacturers are taking different approaches, offering DC optimizers for every module or partnering with MLPE or panel manufacturers with integrated
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TECHNOLOGY
technology that already meets the code— optimizers, microinverters and even chips. For example, SMA America has partnered with Tigo Energy to offer a range of MLPE options, from those that simply shutdown the module to those that offer additional benefits such as monitoring and shade mitigation. The company’s director of marketing Brad Dore said the right choice for contractors depends on their business model. “What’s the most cost effective way to meet the code, and what does your design dictate you need?” he asked. “With many incumbent microinverter and optimizer companies, you’re putting one of these MLPEs on each module no matter what. With SMA’s, if an integrator just wants shutdown capability, they can utilize a particular MLPE that’s just for that purpose. It doesn’t provide monitoring, shade mitigation or other benefits of an actual optimizer, but it’s less expensive. Likewise, there are module companies that have MLPEs embedded into the module that can provide similar benefits. It’s really up to the integrator to determine what’s best for his or her business model.”
The future of rapid shutdown It’s important to be aware of the options available today to meet the code, just in case you’re lucky to have an inspector keen on immediately enforcing NEC 2017 (Massachusetts may be one of these early adopters). But Mike Mahon, technical training specialist at SMA America, noted the code actually
out in the 2011 cycle requiring arcfault circuit interrupter functionality. That code was written, and 2011 came without any commercially available way to meet the code requirements.” But implementation was delayed and solutions came to market. Dore said another interesting aspect is how the code requirement impacts the cost of the system. “It’s in the best interest of the industry’s growth to provide additional safety but in a responsible way so the cost is minimal,” he said. “The residential market, so far, has been a little better able to absorb the additional cost of using MLPEs. Some of these ‘to be developed’ solutions may find applications in the commercial market, which has a little less price elasticity. The same code applies to the commercial market, even though that market is more sensitive to pricing. When you think about the construction and design of a rooftop, it’s something that will need to be taken into account. The solutions are still to come.” SPW
“While it was decided this addition should be in print before the next code cycle, there was an understanding that there’s a lack of maturity in the solutions available for compliance,” he said. Mahon explained that one compliance method describes a ULlisted rapid shutdown system (RSS) PV array, which is a UL standard that doesn’t currently exist. “It would require a standard testing procedure to be developed to achieve that listing,” he said. “Then an array or install could be in compliance.” The SunSpec Alliance is also working
There is a lot of work to be done before the full suite of solutions is available. That’s not terribly unusual. delays enforcing rapid-shutdown requirements in 690.12(B)(2) until January 1, 2019. This is to allow time for the industry to develop a product safety standard for rapid-shutdown PV arrays, so that arrays may be listed and labeled as rapid-shutdown installations. The NFPA recognizes that some options don’t exist yet.
on communication protocol that allows module manufacturers to produce a basic remote control switch for shutdown. “As time goes on, we’ll have more and more options for getting there,” Mahon said. “There is a lot of work to be done before the full suite of solutions is available,” Dore agreed. “That’s not terribly unusual. We saw a similar play
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MOUNTING TECHNOLOGY
KELLY PICKEREL MANAGING EDITOR
New mounting system provides QUICK WAY to install bifacial panels on residential roofs Bifacial solar panels are picking up steam, especially in groundmount conditions or on flat, white roofs where sunlight can easily reflect onto a panel’s backside. Even in not-so-ideal conditions, bifacial modules are standout products not requiring grounding (since they’re dual-glass and frameless) with a higher lifetime power yield. And when companies like Trina Solar provide an industry-high, 30-year power warranty, why not bring these panels to residential rooftops? The issue has been in how to successfully (and effortlessly) mount these frameless panels to sloped planes. One company has spent the last four years and $1.5 million in DOE funding to find a solution. California’s SMASHsolar set a goal to eliminate complexities
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and high-skill activities from the roof and provide an easy way to install unique modules. Thus, the snap-in SMASHmount product was born. “The first invention [was] an installation process where you don’t build a big structure on the roof or really
SMASHmount consists of two primary parts: the solar panel and the foot assembly. The entire system ships together, with eight SMASH snap locks pre-installed on the module. Modules snap onto the feet, which penetrate into the roof. Essentially a two-step process,
Rafter attachment is a high-skill activity. Many penetrations miss the rafter or don’t hit the center line that code requires. It’s an imperfect activity. anything on the roof—a streamlined, very intuitive, very low skill installation process,” said SMASHsolar CEO Troy Tyler. “From that came the actual product development—the snap-together system that’s preassembled in the factory.”
a SMASH system is even easier because rafter attachment isn’t necessary. “Rafter attachment is a highskill activity. Many penetrations miss the rafter or don’t hit the center line
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TECHNOLOGY
that code requires. It’s an imperfect activity,” Tyler said. “We’re using a bolted connection through the decking. Most decking-attached systems are screwed through the decking. We use a bolted connection with a toggle on the backside of the decking and a stainless-steel hex bolt on the top. We call it the ‘secured decking attachment.’” Using this lax installation technique, the assembly feet are attached to the modules on the ground, and the full system is lifted onto the roof and bolted to the decking—an easy snapin assembly on the ground, and then a direct attachment to the roof. “This is really a new category of mounting,” Tyler said. “We have rail systems and rail-less systems, and now we’ve come out with a new category of direct-attach. There is no mounting,
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Part Number
Voc (V)
Isc (mA)
Pmax (mW)
Vmax (V)
Imax (mA)
Jac (mA/ cm2)
Fill Factor (%)
Cell Effcy (%)
Dimension (mm)
Unit cell size(mm)
Cellsin series (cells)
Weight (grams)
SLMD121H04L SLMD121H06L SLMD121H08L SLMD481H08L SLMD960H09L SLMD121H09L SLMD321H09L SLMD360H10L SLMD600H10L SLMD121H10L SLMD481H10L SLMD242H10L SLMD480H12L SLMD720H12L SLMD860H12L SLMD960H12L SLMD481H12L KXOB22-12X1F KXOB22-12X1L KXOB22-04X3L KXOB22-04X3F KXOB22-01X8F KXOB22-01X8L
2.52 3.78 5.04 5.04 5.67 5.67 5.67 6.3 6.3 6.3 6.3 6.3 7.56 7.56 7.56 7.56 7.56 0.63 0.63 1.89 1.89 4.7 4.7
50 50 50 200 40 50 135 15 25 50 200 1000 20 29 36 40 200 50 50 15 15 4.4 4.4
89.2 133.8 178 712 162 200 540 67 111 223 890 4450 108 156.6 182 218 1068 22.3 22.3 20.1 20.1 12.9 12.9
2 3 4 4 4.5 4.5 4.5 5 5 5 5 5 6 5.8 5.9 6 6 0.5 0.5 1.5 1.5 3.4 3.4
44.6 44.6 44.6 178 36 44.6 120 13.4 22.3 44.6 178 890 18 27 31 36 178 44.6 44.6 13.4 13.4 3.8 3.8
42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4 42.4
>70 >70 > 70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 >70 > 70 > 70 >70 >70 >60 >60
22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22 22
43 x 14 x 2 42 x 21x 2 86x 14 x 2 89 x 55 x 2 44.5 x 21.5 x 1.3 62 x 21 x 2 58 x 58 x 2.0 54 x 18 x 2 22 x 35 x 2 42 x 35 x 2 89 x 67 x 2 214.5 x 131.6 x 2 22 x 35 x 2 42.0 x 35.0 x 1.6 38.5 x 32.9 x 2.0 42 x 35 x 2 90 x 79 x 2 22 x 7 x 1.8 22 x 7 x 1.8 22 x 7 x 1.8 22 x 7 x 1.8 22 x 7 x 1.8 22 x 7 x 1.8
20 x 6 20 x 6 20 x 6 20 x 12 x 2 20 X 4.8 20 X 6 18 X 6 X 3 6X6 10 x 6 20 X 6 20 x 12 x 2 120 x 20 10 x 4.8 15 X 4.8 18 X 4.8 20 x 4.8 20 x 12 x 2 20 x 6 20 x 6 6x6 6x6 5 x 2.4 5 x 2.4
4 6 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 12 12 12 1 1 3 3 8 8
2.5 3.5 5 18 4.5 5.5 12 2 2.5 4.5 20 110 2.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 22 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
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TECHNOLOGY
no construction on the roof before the module gets attached.” Tyler said SMASHmount is module agnostic, although the company is working with current module manufacturers (namely Sunpreme and Trina Solar) to ship direct. Also available to SMASH customers are clips for wire management, electronics brackets to support power optimizers or inverters and optional trim for the perimeter of the system. The company has an innovator program for
This is really a new category of mounting. We have rail systems and rail-less systems, and now we’ve come out with a new category of direct-attach. installers that provides engineering and sales support for those wanting to be the first to install SMASHmount systems. SMASHsolar is only supporting composition shingle roofs at this point, but there are plans to expand into other roofing types and getting involved with commercial or carport applications. As demand for bifacial and frameless modules expands, all types of installations will need applicable mounting systems. “Both [frameless and bifacial modules] are wanting one key element to be successful—a robust and easyto-install mounting system. We’re supporting both,” Tyler said. “It really opens up these markets for these higher power modules.” SPW
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STORAGE TECHNOLOGY
KATHIE ZIPP
MANAGING EDITOR
In demanding vehicular applications, battery degradation can start to cause problems because the battery can’t always perform to meet the instantaneous and long-term demands of the vehicle’s operating system. However, the battery is able to be reused in other applications like EV charging stations.
Giving electric vehicle batteries a SECOND LIFE in solar projects UL and the University of California San Diego are working to bring repurposed EV batteries into the solar market faster. Electric vehicles and solar are often categorized under the umbrella of green technology, but what exactly is their relationship? Should the solar industry pay attention to what’s happening with EVs? Panelists in an educational session at Solar Power International 2016 thought so. “It’s important to look at all potential technologies together because they’re complementary. There’s a lot of synergies between them,” said Angela Strickland, director of product development for the Southern Company Energy Innovation Center, during the “How are trends in electric vehicles impacting solar and storage” session. Fellow panelists noted that EVs drive down battery costs just through sheer volume. As more people 30
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drive EVs, they’ll need a place to charge them, which creates even more potential for solar power. Kenneth Boyce, principal engineer director of energy and power technologies for UL, also sees connections between EVs and solar. “Perhaps the most important nexus between solar power and EVs is energy storage,” he said, in particular referring to EV batteries being reused to store solar power. According to IEA’s Global EV Outlook 2016 report, more than one million EVs were on the road in 2015 globally, compared with just hundreds in 2005. The United States alone had about 400,000. But EV owners have to replace their batteries about every eight years—once
the battery capacity is below 80%. Still, that leaves a lot of life in the batteries, which could be used to store other energies like solar. Using second-life EV batteries for solar is becoming a stronger consideration as the first wave of EV batteries is about to exceed their warranties and require replacement. This could result in a new stream of lower-cost batteries for solar. “As the population of available EV batteries grows, they can play a key role in the expansion of the energy storage infrastructure,” said Boyce. “Repurposed batteries can be used at utilityscale, commercial-scale and even in community or local power applications, recognizing that the economic profiles may be different across the continuum.”
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TECHNOLOGY
But not every EV battery may be suitable for reuse. “Each EV battery has
Accurately assessing the ability of each EV battery to be safely repurposed into its new application is critical.” Currently, there is no process for testing and certifying second-life EV batteries. But UL is working on the foundation for one through a partnership with the University of California San Diego.
As the population of available EV batteries grows, they can play a key role in the expansion of the energy storage infrastructure. been exposed to different charging and discharging, environmental and physical conditions through its lifetime,” Boyce explained. “The degradation profile from these factors will vary based on the battery design and its use in the vehicle. As the batteries degrade, they reach a point where motive performance demands cannot be met effectively. solar-ad-final-press.pdf
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Getting second-life batteries to market faster UC San Diego takes pride in its dedication to testing “quantum” products on its microgrids. Using a baseball analogy, Byron Washom, director of strategic energy initiatives at UC San Diego, explained, “We’re not very interested in innovations that may be single or doubles. But if something comes along that’s a
home run or a grand slam, that’s where we like to focus our interest.” One of these interests has been second-life EV batteries, which are deployed in several on-campus projects funded through partnerships with NREL, the California Energy Commission and manufacturers. For example, the university worked with electrical vehicle charging solutions provider EVgo to develop a project that brings EV batteries full circle. The project consists of four EV charging stations, a solar panel roof and two second-life EV batteries to help charge other EVs. The batteries lower the cost of using the charging station, which makes owning an EV cheaper. The project even won an Energy Storage North America 2016 Innovation Award, which Washom took as important validation that his team had picked winning technologies.
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TECHNOLOGY
The U.S. had about 400,000 electric vehicles on the road in 2015, according to the IEA Global EV Outlook 2016.
The UC San Diego Strategic Energy Initiatives team doesn’t just test these technologies, but it also provides feedback to manufacturers like EVgo and BMW. “It’s a continual process of nurturing products into commercialization,” Washom said. The Strategic Energy Initiatives team works to get products to market faster, but a lack of UL listings was slowing the process. UL recognized the value in UC San Diego’s work and approached the university. The two formed a partnership to accelerate commercialization of second-life EV batteries and other innovations. “I give credit to UL for inspiring this relationship,” Washom said. “We both realized we could do our jobs a lot better if we teamed up.”
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Developing a new safety standard When it comes to second-life battery certification, UL’s main point of order is developing a safety standard. UL has more than a decade of battery research under its belt, but Boyce said testing EV batteries for reuse is a whole different ballgame. “The biggest difference in the development of this standard from others is that instead of certifying a product as it is originally produced, the new standard will focus on the processes to requalify a product that has already been in use in a very different application,” he said. Boyce explained that EV batteries are typically classified for their state of health through initial screening tests. Those not suited for continued-use are weeded out through additional testing to determine what part of a battery pack will be qualified, what will be replaced and what will be recycled. “The real challenge is finding a method of evaluation for EV batteries that is nondestructive, otherwise we would destroy the battery,” he said. The new safety standard will be known as UL 1974, which will fit into UL’s existing suite of battery and battery-operated equipment standards for integrating batteries, alongside UL 9540, the standard for the safety of energy storage systems.
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TECHNOLOGY “The standard will provide users with the confidence that an EV battery will function effectively as an energy storage device in a residence, commercial facility, microgrid or utility-scale applications,” Boyce said.
Looking to the future Use of second-life EV batteries is still in its beginnings. Even once UL establishes a baseline of safety, it will need to study other important aspects such as how second-life batteries perform. Economics will also be important. “The cost of a battery remains far and away the most expensive element of an electric vehicle, so there is quite a bit of value tied up there that supports the premise of continued use,” Boyce said. “It is a very dynamic time in the battery sector—prices are trending downward and global production continues to increase. Only time will tell, but UL is fully committed to providing a path for the safe deployment of these repurposed EV batteries.” SPW
UC San Diego is among the first to attempt this integration of repurposed EV batteries with solar power. Efforts such as these provide important practical insights into the applied use of the technology.
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SOLAR BUSINESS
The extension of the ITC left the industry with a clear path to 2020. With that worry gone, you’re free to focus on growing your business, whether that’s by entering new markets, forming new relationships or taking time to focus on your online marketing. We’ve got the how-to articles here to help you do more business, and do business better, starting today.
• How to improve your online marketing
Some topics you’ll find in this section:
• How to develop distributor relationships
• Why referral-based leads are the best for your business • Insurance considerations for entering new markets • Financing trends and challenges in 2017 • Possibilities for adding storage services to your business
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[DISTRIBUTORS]
The hows and whys of establishing solar distributor relationships Distributors provide efficiency for solar
Mary Shaffer Gill Mary Shaffer Gill is the director of marketing at CivicSolar
contractors by serving as a single point of contact for accessing modules, racking, inverters, balance of systems and most—if not all—ancillary services necessary to install solar. As a result of their strategic market position between supply and demand, distributors gain knowledge they can pass onto solar contractors to guide their regular business operations and long-term strategic decisions. By establishing a partnership with solar distributors, contractors gain an extension to their team and access to tools and knowledge needed for achieving a competitive advantage.
How distributors can help Distributors help solar contractors grow their businesses by acting as the fully-managed warehouse for contractors who deliver equipment on-site and job-to-job. Distributors also provide technical guidance on product innovations, design support and permit preparation. In addition, they serve as the top of the sales funnel for solar installers by notifying them of project opportunities and/or providing referrals. Solar contractors also look to distributors as the extension of their market research team, keeping an eye on changes in
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technology, policy and market forces that could impact their business. As the partnership grows, both entities can reduce risk, increase sales and profitability and continue to approach the market with confidence.
Choosing a distribution partner Establishing a contractor-distributor relationship can occur in many ways. Distributors are actively looking for new customers to support, while solar contractors are continuously working to improve their businesses. Whether the conversation begins with a distributor’s prospecting efforts or a solar contractor’s online research, solar contractors should complete their due diligence before entering a relationship with a distributor. As with any relationship, transparency is key for success. Similar to instilling confidence in the home and business owners they serve, contractors should have coinciding expectations for their distributions partners. A quality distributor will have a proven-track record, a commitment to set and fulfill accurate expectations and the ability to deliver quality equipment and services. Each aspect cannot stand on its own and is equally as important when choosing partners. As a solar contractor pursuing a partnership with a distributor, one should have a good understanding of what they consider valuable and important for their business. Preparing a list of pain points, important value adds and business-driven questions before an introductory conversation will ensure everyone’s needs are met. For example, does the distributor assist with design and engineering? This could make a huge impact on the contractor’s business if in-house technical expertise needs additional support. At a higher level: What would the distributor consider to be its strengths and weaknesses? How long has it been in business? How many installers has it supported? These exploratory questions will foster a productive conversation and ultimately a transparent, value-driven partnership.
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[DISTRIBUTORS]
This is the time for contractors to share candid thoughts on how a distributor can add value to their business and set expectations.
Preparing important documents When a contractor is considering a partnership with a distributor, they should also begin preparing documents that showcase their company. This includes basic business information such as: • Licenses and certificates (contractor’s, business, resale, etc.) • Financials to ensure eligibility for authorized dealer programs and lines of credit offered by the distributor (P&L statements, tax returns, etc.) • Current lenders and credit references • Volume installed and project/customer references to support said work
The distributor may also request other information to better understand the contractor’s experience and product preferences. As with any business partnership, one between a solar contractor and distributor should be mutually beneficial. Contractors should be offered more certainty and consistency with every transaction, while enjoying the support and positivity such a relationship can award. SPW
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[FINANCING]
Digital Content Alert! Also catch Mary Rottman in a Solar Speaks Live video interview at Solar Power International 2015, and in a Solar Speaks podcast “SEFA, cracking the code to solar financing,” both on solarpower worldonline.com
Solar financing trends in 2017
Mary Rottman Mary Rottman is the former president of the Solar Energy Finance Association, which has now merged with SEIA
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The ITC extension helped the industry
Loans
refocus on its long-term future, rather than a short-term goal of installing as much as possible before the end of 2016. The extension gives developers much more runway to plan through 2022. The companies SEFA has worked with feel much more relaxed about having sufficient capital and the financing they need to meet their goals. Looking ahead, PPAs, leases and loans will continue to be used to finance solar in 2017. Here’s a close look at how some options are trending, along with the continuing emergence of more commercial financing solutions and solar+storage projects.
Improvements in solar equipment and installation have contributed to a 63% reduction in installation costs since 2011, which is quite remarkable. A solar array has become a much more affordable item. For some customers, the monthly payment on a loan to own the system is about the same as what they’re paying on their energy bill, which is leading to a growth in solar loans. Customers are increasingly wanting to own their system and feel they’re getting 100% of the ITC benefits and the energy produced. As loans gain popularity, solar leases are dropping from about 80% of the residential market to 60% or less. But this is a positive development because it shows the industry is evolving and able to offer more products to meet the different needs of its customers.
Leasing Solar leasing continues to be one of the most important tools for deploying solar. It’s convenient; the customer puts next to no money down in return for 10% to 20% savings on their energy bill. Also, because the system is owned by the developer, customers don’t have to worry about maintenance or repairs. The lease was especially key to mass solar deployment in the early days of rooftop solar when installation costs were a lot more expensive. 1 • 2017
Commercial solar The C&I market has been the toughest nut to crack, in terms of financing. Commercial projects are all unique with different locations, sizes and off-takers. It’s difficult for investors or lenders to make the economics work. Still, the industry views this as the biggest untapped
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[FINANCING]
market because there are so many commercial rooftops. At SEFA, we spent a lot of time looking at this area and facilitating solutions. Commercial solar installations are good projects and usually find financing eventually; they just have a more difficult time getting financiers interested. One solution has been the deployment of warehouse financing. This short-term financing allows the developer to pool projects together and begin them over a period of time. Pooling projects often attracts some of the larger, more sophisticated financing sources. This short-term financing allows developers to get projects started and operational. Once projects are complete, investors and lenders see them as lower risk, making it easier for developers to refinance the
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short-term operational debt into longterm debt or securitization at a lower cost of capital.
Solar+storage In 2015, the industry was looking toward solar ownership with storage as the next frontier for solar, and we’ve started to enter that—it’s amazing what a little more than a year will do! We are seeing a rapid evolution of battery technology in renewables driven by the EV industry as well as the solar industry because of the need to manage its variable nature. Right now, it’s not economic for most home or business owners to buy battery technology. But we see solar+storage following a path similar to the early days when solar was expensive and leases helped make it
more obtainable. Different solutions will evolve, such as owning just the solar system and leasing the batteries. People are working diligently to find solutions to address the whole solar energy picture and its interface with the grid. The techniques to finance equipment have been around for awhile and it’s a matter of rebranding and redesigning them to fit the needs of the solar+storage market. SPW
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[MARKETING]
There’s no magic bullet for online marketing Online marketing offers residential solar installers a cost-effective way to reach
David Wolpert David Wolpert is the founder of CleanTech Marketing
Key findings Three general observations are worth noting. First, overall performance across the 154 installers was mixed. A small number of installers demonstrated strong online marketing performance overall, but most had room for improvement in at least a few critical areas—SEO unresponsive websites, lack of email marketing and marketing automation tools and stagnant blogs and social media pages.
prospective customers at scale, with measurable results. But there is no magic bullet—no single activity that companies can check off a list and declare its online marketing efforts done. Successful online marketing starts with a well-designed, search-optimized website that performs well at a technical level. The website should be updated with fresh, compelling content added to a blog. And companies should continually engage prospective customers through social media and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Some efforts will work better than others; the key is to learn and adjust tactics accordingly.
Location of installers studied
How are SPW’s Top Solar Contractors doing? My team and I at CleanTech Marketing (CTM) evaluated the online marketing strategies and tools used by 154 of the largest residential rooftop contractors in the United States and Canada, as ranked in Solar Power World’s 2016 Top 500 North American Solar Contractors list. We visited contractor websites and social media channels to examine a variety of metrics in four broad areas:
2% 3% 5%
1. Technology—The use of software platforms for content management, marketing automation, analytics and communication tools, as well as how well the site performed. 2. Search engine optimization (SEO), both on-page and offpage 3. Blogging 4. Social media and review sites
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Note that our analysis was purely quantitative. The findings do not reveal anything about the effectiveness of various marketing strategies.
31% California
30% All others
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[MARKETING]
Second, performance does not always correlate with company size. Many smaller installers stood out from the pack in certain areas. For instance, one small Massachusetts installer had almost as many consumer reviews as Vivint Solar, and two small California-based installers each had more YouTube videos than SolarCity. Even small companies with limited resources have found ways to do specific aspects of online marketing effectively. Finally, there is a lot of low-hanging fruit to grab. In online marketing, small improvements can yield big results. Free (or relatively inexpensive) and easy-to-implement processes can go a long way.
Social media is another free way to connect with current and potential customers. The majority of researched companies had accounts with the major social media properties (for instance, 96% have a Facebook account) and 81 sites had blogs. This is great, but these platforms are only as good as how often they’re updated. Unfortunately, most companies we evaluated rarely posted anything to them. Take time to assign a person to update social media at least weekly, and blogs even monthly. Or even assign multiple people to the platforms they prefer. Maybe one employee enjoys writing, while another likes to snap photos for Instagram? Alsok don’t forget to link your company’s social media accounts to its website. Only 46% of contractors with a YouTube channel and 38% of those with an Instagram account did this. It’s a missed opportunity to engage more prospects. With
Simple first steps Based on the data we examined, we found some easy ways contractors can improve their online marketing right away. For example, implementing a content management system (CMS) is an easy way to simplify updating your website. While we found 71% of companies used them, there’s plenty of room for others to jump on board. WordPress is a great choice and is used by 57% of the installers we studied. It’s free, though hosting costs are extra. Approximately half of all websites are now accessed from smartphones and tablets. That makes it imperative that your site is “responsive,” meaning it displays correctly on these devices. We found that 79% of the installers researched had responsive websites, which is great, but with so many users accessing your content on a mobile device, everyone should be using a responsive site design template (also called a theme) like WordPress. It’s also important to understand your website traffic and from where it’s coming. Google Analytics is a free and powerful tool to understand who visits your website and how they found it. We were glad to see 77% of companies we evaluated use Google Analytics. Just visit google.com/analytics to start.
Use of content management systems
57% WordPress
5% 2% 3%
29% No CMS 4%
Drupal Wix Joomla All others
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[MARKETING]
Frequency of posting to blogs
15% published an average of once per month 12% published an average of twice per month
58% published less than once per month
14% published an average of three or more times per month 1% did not date-stamp their posts, so it was impossible to discern how often they posted
a small effort, blogs and social media accounts can have a more consistent presence showing that your company is active, knowledgeable and cares about customer engagement.
An audit can help If you still find you’re lost in online marketing, or just don’t’ have the resources to properly manage it, it may be beneficial to get a third-party to help. Marketing organizations like ours can perform a comprehensive online marketing audit to identifies what a company is doing right and where— and how—it could improve. To download a complimentary copy of the report, visit cleantech.marketing/ research SPW
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[LEADS]
Why a referral-based solar business makes for the best profits Pamela Cargill Pamela Cargill is principal at Chaolysti
Customer acquisition is a vexing topic for many solar contractors. By looking at what strategies have worked over time, we can determine best practices to build a profitable solar contracting business.
contractors to strike the right balance between growing and staying profitable.
Non-referral strategies and the growth of residential solar
In 2013, NREL and the DOE published a soft cost study and found that non-hardware costs contributed to nearly 65% of a project’s total. At least 9% of that cost was associated with customer acquisition (exact percentages differed based on geography, business models, etc.). Since 2013, solar hardware costs have continued to decline, but soft costs have remained stubborn for many. In some regions, especially more competitive areas like Southern California, they have even increased. Customer acquisition remains a perennial challenge for the residential rooftop sector because solar isn’t right for
Non-referral customer acquisition strategies (content marketing, telemarketing, providing a proposal before an in-home consultation and canvassing, for example), have resulted in tremendous growth for residential rooftop solar installers—about 53% in the residential sector since 2005, according to SPV Market Research. But what is the cost of that growth? High growth rates of 50, 60 or 70% are great, but they also require putting a lot of money into generating non-referral leads. It’s important for 4 4 SOLAR POWER WORLD
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High acquisition costs when not every home is right for solar
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Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com
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[LEADS]
everyone, and certain forms of advertising may provide little to no return. While some factors have affected the solar customer market size since 2015, such as changes to NEM, it’s critical to keep in mind that the total addressable market for rooftop solar is not every person and not even every homeowner. So how do we reach the addressable market while lowering our acquisition costs?
Steps to lowering customer acquisition costs Step 1: Know your target customer How well do you know your customer and, specifically, the customer that results in a profitable install? The first step to knowing is measuring. Synchronizing your accounting, estimation and customer information can help you analyze your projects and customers to better understand what types are most profitable and why. Many marketers look at customer demographics—ownership of the home, age, income, creditworthiness, level of education attained, etc.—to help identify and target their ideal population. For solar, we also have to consider site characteristics, such as home orientation, shade and potential signs of high energy use like pools, AC units or particularly large homes. During this analysis, it’s also important to understand the maturity of your market. For example, pinning down ideal demographics in emerging markets (such as those in the South and Southeast United States) can seem nearly impossible. Early market buyers bring a different mentality about purchasing a new type of product than those in more mature markets like California or Massachusetts. Step 2: Focus on referrals first Focusing only on growing quickly may cost you the satisfaction of your customers. When the customer experience suffers, they are less likely to provide a referral. Referrals are important because, although you may only see a 10 to 25% growth rate, you are likely to be more
dissatisfaction with understanding what would change after they adopted solar. Instead, provide outlets for consumer education, such as through videos, blogs, seminars and open house events. The consumer can decide how and when they engage with these resources. Continue to track, nurture and educate any prospective customers you touch through email marketing and a CRM. It may take months or years for some to decide they are ready. When they decide, you want your brand to be top of mind for them. Don’t forget to keep in touch with customers even after project completion. Reach out on a semiregular basis through timely customer newsletters with tips and tricks on how to read their bill, how to understand their savings and maybe some invitations to fun customer-only events or opportunities. Ask for the referral. Keep your customers happy and engaged. Respond to their concerns and service requests promptly. Set up your processes and software project management systems to help support the delivery of great customer experiences. You’ll be well on your way to a strong and profitable referral-based business. SPW
profitable given you have the right process controls in place. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals. Based on my experience, I recommend asking after the installation is totally complete and the customer receives the first utility bill showing solar savings. You’re likely to catch them on a high note. Step 3: Deliver an excellent customer experience To generate referrals, you must meet or exceed the customer’s expectations. This may sound simple, but making customers feel comfortable involves spending a lot of time educating and communicating with them because they are likely purchasing solar for the first time. They may not have any preconceived notions or experience with the solar buying process or know what to expect when the project is underway. Help them understand what to expect. This means ensuring the expectations you set during the sales process are true, realistic and carried through during project delivery. Find out how, when and with what method the customer wishes to communicate with your company to learn about project updates. Help them understand the reality of potential delays in construction planning, the approvals necessary and who they can contact when they have questions. Inappropriate sales compensation, high-pressure sales tactics, onecall closes and dubious promises of savings lead to long-term customer dissatisfaction. Noted solar market researcher Paula Mints conducted a consumer satisfaction study in 2015 wherein even respondents who claimed satisfaction provided long-form comments indicating confusion and
Residential Solar Cost Breakdown
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[NEW MARKETS]
Is it finally time to add energy storage to your solar services? It seems as though energy storage has moved from being an “industry buzzword” into something to finally seriously consider. The technology is there, and utilities are taking notice. And while dedicated residential solar installers might have some experience with a battery or two, most C&I and utility-scale installers have never dealt with large energy storage systems. With the way the industry is going, is it time for solar contractors to add a new service to their installation repertoire? For most larger developers and installers, the answer is yes, and it’s better to get involved now instead of getting left in the dust. One can go the route of partnering with an established energy storage provider, as California’s
Kelly Pickerel Kelly Pickerel is the managing editor of Solar Power World magazine.
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REC Solar recently did, or starting an in-house storage division, as Swinerton Renewables has done. This is the tale of two companies trying to take advantage of new opportunities.
Partnering up When REC Solar started exploring energy storage installation plans, it wasn’t because of market desperation. Instead, the company wanted to provide its commercial customers with the best options. “I think we could be successful without energy storage. There is still a big market out there for solar, and storage just doesn’t make a lot of sense for [everyone],” said REC’s John Hostetter, senior director of product management.
“But this allows us to be more successful than we are. There are customers where this is a great opportunity for them.” Hostetter said REC Solar first started the search for a storage partner five years ago, but the maturation of the market just wasn’t there. This past year, the market seemed to finally catch up. “More and more customers are talking about it and requesting it,” Hostetter said. “In a couple years, it’s going to be a major part of the market. If we don’t get ahead of that game, we’re going to miss out.” In 2015, utility Duke Energy secured a majority stake in REC Solar and brought the commercial solar installer into an exclusive alliance, alongside energy storage provider Green Charge. REC Solar and
REC Solar and partner Green Charge use PV and commercial energy storage solutions at Sonoma Mountain Village, the county's largest solar+storage installation.
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[NEW MARKETS]
Green Charge now work collaboratively on solar+storage sales, addressing customer needs on a holistic level. “Green Charge allows us to have discussions that go beyond just solar projects,” said Garrett Colburn, director of marketing communications and demand generation at REC Solar. “There’s a natural alignment when you form the right alliances. You have similar customers.” REC Solar and Green Charge don’t work together to bundle solar+storage packages. Not all buyers want cookiecutter options. It’s better to provide them with more options than just a few one-size-fits-all. “We didn’t go the route of creating our own offering because people don’t want to be told that the one thing we have in our bag is the one thing they need,” Colburn said. “We have this eco-system enabled through Duke. We’re able to at least have the discussion if that makes sense for the customer.” In November, the two companies announced a plan to build the largest commercial solar+storage project in Sonoma County, California. The 1-MW system will serve a mixeduse development, including shops and apartments, on a 200-acre campus. The savings and returns on a solar+storage system rather than either a standalone solar or standalone storage system really piqued the development’s interest. “It’s what differentiates ourselves— positioning ourselves as [having] the scale and the ability to have that larger energy discussion,” Colburn said. “They like to know we’re a serious player that is thinking at that level early on. They want someone who can think long term, into that 30-year schedule.” Entering into energy storage offerings really came down to providing the best customer service for REC Solar. “We like to educate ourselves on what the customer’s needs and wants are and then educate the customer on their options and make a recommendation based on their needs
and wants, not necessarily just to push an option that we have,” Hostetter said.
Going solo Utility-scale solar EPC Swinerton Renewable Energy knew it wanted to get involved with storage in a big way once 2017 rolled around. The uncertainty around the ITC extension in 2015 only helped fuel that urgency. “We saw the trends in the market that 2017 was going to be challenged in utilityscale, with or without the extension of the ITC,” said George Hershman, Swinerton’s senior vice president and general manager. “We knew that in late 2016 we would need to start putting active pieces in motion so in 2017 we could be in a number of different markets that would support the scale of the organization and fill in what was going to be some downturn in the utility market.”
More and more customers are talking about it and requesting it. In a couple years, it’s going to be a major part of the market. If we don’t get ahead of that game, we’re going to miss out. don’t know who the winners or losers on technology are going to be. The marketplace will determine the best technology.” Swinerton really saw getting involved with storage as a necessary key to survival in the utility-scale market. “We are a 130-year-old construction company that has evolved over time as markets change. We always look at how we can continue to build a sustainable business model,” Hershman said. “Not in every market will storage be adopted, at least initially. [But] solar+storage is becoming at least an item that utilities and owners are looking at. Having a storage résumé is an important differentiator we saw in this growing trend.” SPW
Luckily for the company, the opportunity came about in late 2016 to assist on an 80-MWh storage project for Southern California Edison—currently the largest lithium-ion battery storage project in the world. A project of that size clearly gives Swinerton a strong résumé to work with. “Our first storage project is a significant project in the storage market,” Hershman said. “We see it as an opportunity to grow our strength and resources. We didn’t want to be just a utility-scale solar contractor. It was a good short-term play but not a good long-term play.” The company will now search out large-scale energy storage projects, especially in the active California market.
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“We believe the California market is going to support large-scale storage because of the significant concentration of solar,” Hershman said. “We see our developer clients that are doing traditional solar or wind looking at standalone storage projects. We have a client base that is looking at this as an alternate development opportunity. It’s natural for us to support them directly.” Rather than partnering with a specific storage technology, Swinerton has chosen to ride the waves of innovation. “We have stayed technology agnostic in the solar space, and we believe that has served us well,” Hershman said. “We are able to provide the best product offering for any project, because we have a vast array of suppliers and manufacturers that we have relationships with. We look at storage the same way. We
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[INSURANCE]
Pete Wilcox Pete Wilcox is the national underwriting officer at Travelers (Edited interview)
Insurance concerns for entering new solar markets When solar installers jump from residential into the commercial or small utility-scale markets, how do their insurance needs change? [It comes down to] the overall liability that they’re going to have to take on. If they’re doing a bigger system on a rooftop, they really need to know what’s under the roof. Is solar going to have an impact? [As a residential installer] you’re looking at just the homeowner and their exposure. Now you’re putting solar on a top of a factory that has $200 million under the roof and 1,000 employees. It’s bigger, more expensive. It’s a totally different liability exposure. When they go to utility-scale groundmounts, a lot of those are in remote areas. You have to think about how to get workers out there. You have to find quality workers. With more hands working on a project, there’s more chance of having a failure, especially when your big thing is to get it up and operational as soon as possible. It’s a greater financial liability and insurance ties into that. If they can’t prove they’re using the best possible products and the best possible quality control on their installations, cost can be impacted.
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What should installers consider when adding new product offerings, such as energy storage? When they’re going new into it, they’re [hopefully] going to their broker and showing them their plan: Yes, we’re getting into this industry, these are the additional risks that we’ve identified, these are the things we’re doing to minimize that risk to the customers we’re working with. The more knowledge they provide up front, then the broker will feel better about it. It shows they’re not just looking at the revenue stream. If they’re going to go into battery storage or electrical vehicle chargers, it’s all about where this stuff is located and how it’s being protected from being struck by vehicles, are there enough warning labels on it, are there [user] instructions. Having the OEMs come out and check the installations or [offer] training programs about proper installation [helps get] brokers and customers comfortable with their ability to do the work. A factory that needs a whole bank of batteries may want to know their chemistry. Are these a fire hazard to my building? If contractors are getting into a new business, they need to understand all the questions that all the parties are going to have, whether it’s the building owner, the insurance carrier of the building owner or their own insurance carrier. The more people they make comfortable with what they’re doing, the easier it is to get insurance and better terms and conditions. SPW
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North America’s Most-Attended Solar Event Moscone Center, San Francisco Hear it here first! Be part of the first major U.S. solar event of the year 18,000 visitors connect with 550 international exhibitors The perfect match! Intersolar is co-located with ees (electrical energy storage)
co-located with
Exhibit now!
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KELLY PICKEREL
[CONTRACTORS CORNER]
MANAGING EDITOR
Podcast Alert!
Midwest developer promotes solar on national stage
Listen to this and other Contractors Corner podcasts on solarpower worldonline.com
Inovateus Solar South Bend, Indiana
Some may find it surprising that a solar developer based in Indiana is making such an impact on the promotion of solar energy. The Midwest isn’t the quintessential region for solar installations, but the times are a-changin’. As more utilities retire aging coal plants, South Bend’s Inovateus Solar is helping to guide the energy transition to solar. “It’s exciting to see that what we do—the 40 people here at Inovateus— can have such a big impact,” said president TJ Kanczuzewski. “It’s fun to be part of this energy revolution that’s happening. I couldn’t think of a better profession to have.” Inovateus Solar started in 2008 as a spinoff of Midwest construction company Inovateus Development. Initially functioning as a distributor, Inovateus Solar quickly shifted to an engineer, then a project manager, then an EPC and finally landed as a developer. “As we really started to get our foot in the door with some larger companies and utilities, we quickly realized that we had to grow our efforts into being able to provide our customers with other resources,” Kanczuzewski said. “We’ve really come full circle since we kicked off our efforts. It’s been interesting and exciting at the same time to see the
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Midwestern market really pick up and see several utilities launch solar programs.” The commercial market is a sweet spot for Inovateus, but the developer is involved with some larger utility-scale projects as well. Currently working on a 60-MW project for DTE Energy in Michigan, Inovateus has been at the forefront of solar’s arrival in the Midwest and expects many more projects going forward. The major goal for Inovateus Solar, which has been on the Solar Power World Top Solar Contractors list all five years, is to be a Top 5 U.S. solar company.
It’s exciting to see that what we do can have such a big impact. “We think if we can be the top solar developer in the Midwest, within about 10 years we’ll definitely be in the Top 5 of the country because the Midwest market is really going to become a bigger one,” Kanczuzewski said. Already, Inovateus Solar ranks at No. 11 on the overall 2016 SPW Top Solar Developers list and is the highest-ranking Midwest developer. The company appears to be on track to its goal. One way to expand its efforts is to make the company a national name. In a unique partnership, Inovateus Solar has teamed up with IndyCar driver Stefan Wilson to promote solar energy to new audiences. “I was scratching my head. How does someone in racing, an industry that burns fossil fuels, help promote solar?” Kanczuzewski initially thought. “Stefan quickly put things into perspective. Our purpose as a company is to build a brilliant tomorrow. Stefan’s mission is one to promote sustainability through racing. He really has the foundation in place to talk to the people and take it to the next level.” www.solarpowerworldonline.com
1/18/17 7:28 PM
[CONTRACTORS CORNER]
Photo courtesy of Mike Robertson, Heartland Solutions
When Wilson drove in the 100th Indianapolis 500 this year, he was racing with Inovateus Solar sponsoring the car. “We want to help sponsor his racing efforts, but at the same time, he is helping to promote solar energy with the audience he has,” Kanczuzewski said. “One thing we’ve always tried to do at Inovateus is connect ourselves with people who are involved in different industries. With solar, we kind of all preach the same thing to each other within the same industry. That’s great, but we have to get outside of that bubble. For solar to be a mainstream product, you need mainstream folks sharing that story.” As Inovateus Solar takes steps to spread the gospel of solar energy throughout the Midwest and to bigger national crowds, Kanczuzewski said everyone’s passion for the industry makes the job easy. “I enjoy the opportunity to make not just a positive impact on the world, but a profound impact,” Kanczuzewski said. “Our core values at Inovateus are passion, engagement, ambition, creativity and esprit de corps— or the acronym PEACE. The solar energy industry gives us the opportunity to really do all of those things 110%.” SPW
Inovateus Solar’s sponsorship can be seen on the car’s side Photo courtesy of Stefan Wilson
Photo courtesy of Mike Robertson, Heartland Solutions
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KATHIE ZIPP
[ASK A VET]
MANAGING EDITOR
Showing solar leadership
Brendan Neagle COO of Borrego Many of your peers on LinkedIn have mentioned your strong leadership skills. You’ve been quoted on Borrego’s blog saying you focus on “empowering other employees to take initiative and to lead and implement their own improvements.” What advice can you offer solar contractors trying to empower and inspire their own teams? First, listen. Even though I am in the role of the boss, I don’t think of myself as the boss, and I really like to listen to others’ ideas and encourage them. I try to look for people’s interests and strengths and then encourage those. In that way, employees feel empowered because they can do what they want. We’ve also had a strong culture of promoting from within, so trying to understand employees’ career paths and goals and trying to make those things happen for them. A lot of the things I’ve learned about leadership, I also learned through my 12 years of summer camp in New England. I started as a camper and rose through the ranks to be one of the leaders of the different divisions. It’s a YMCA organization, which is really focused on leadership growth and development. 52
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Even though mainstream solar is still a relatively young industry, some solar professionals have had the opportunity to watch the industry grow and change for decades. Solar Power World has launched a monthly “Ask a Vet” podcast series to highlight these individuals who have spent 10 or more years in the market. Through the podcast and excerpts we will share here in each issue, we hope to provide a platform to share the unique perspectives and insight of these industry veterans. In our inaugural podcast, we spoke with Brendan Neagle, COO of Borrego Solar, who has spent 10 years with the company and 15 in solar. Neagle’s journey to solar started with studying American civilization and environmental studies at Brown University, working for a beverage distributor, becoming a school teacher and eventually selling residential solar in response to the California Solar Incentive program, which was paying rebates at $4.50/W. Here’s some of what he shared. Listen to the full interview at solarpowerworldonline.com.
What has changed in solar since you started? When I started in 2001, it was a very small, underserved industry—not very well known. With skyrocketing electric rates, solar incentives being offered and paybacks of five to 10 years, I saw an opportunity. As the industry matured, costs came down, reliability improved and public perception became better. That’s where we really saw the growth of the commercial and utility market. Probably the two biggest areas of change have been in cost and reliability. We are literally selling systems for about one-eighth the cost we were selling them when I started. That’s tremendous. It’s made the technology more accessible. The other side of it is, even with that rapid cost reduction, reliability and confidence in the technology has increased unbelievably. I remember when PPAs were a brand-new, crazy idea. Getting banks to actually finance based on the revenue from kilowatt-hour production from solar was a revolutionary concept. The reliability and bankability is probably the biggest change I’ve seen, allowing the technology to really reach the mainstream.
What do your children think about solar? I have a five year old, a three year old and a five month old. My oldest was first exposed to solar panels in our community, pointing them out on the roofs from the stroller. She’s come into work a number of times too and definitely knows “Daddy builds solar panels.” While she doesn’t know the finer details, she’s also familiar with coal and natural gas plants, and she’ll actually use the term “traditional energy generation” only because she’s repeating what I’d said. But she’ll get the twinkle in her eye and I really think she understands we’re trying to make the world a better place through clean energy. We’ve also done a lot of projects on schools. I always make a point to say to my staff and to the management group at the schools that putting solar on schools is my favorite application, because not only does it do all the good that any solar project would do, but it exposes the children to the technology in a way that will allow them to grow up thinking solar is normal. They won’t think it’s alternative energy; they’ll think it’s the standard type of energy that was on their school roof. That’s how I empower my employees to get through tough summer sprints on school projects. It’s based on the additive good associated with putting solar on a school, rather than just another application. SPW
www.solarpowerworldonline.com
1/18/17 7:29 PM
2017
I NTR OD UC T ION [ L EAD ER SH IP IN SO LA R E NE R G Y ]
Nominate the company you think has provided leadership in the solar industry.
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ONLINE
solarpowerworldonline.com/ leadership Nominate the company you think has provided leadership in the solar industry.
Having wrapped one of the greatest years on record for solar PV, expectations and enthusiasm for the U.S. solar industry have never been higher. This level of success wouldn’t be possible without the innovation, ingenuity and determination of the people who drive it: leaders. These individuals and companies are working for the growth of the entire solar industry.
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The future of the industry will build on the foundation of today’s efforts. Solar Power World would like to acknowledge such achievements on the following pages. These accomplishments in racking-and-mounting, inverters, modules and more are what drive those gigawatts and create jobs. We think they deserve recognition from you, too. Vote online for one or more of the companies listed through October. 1 • 2017
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
APsystems is a global leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of microinverters based on its proven, leading-edge solar technology. APsystems was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009 and has grown to encompass three global business units with offices across the world, serving customers in more than 70 countries. APsystems USA is based in Seattle.
Powerful innovation. Proven reliability. It all starts with innovation. APsystems revolutionized the residential MLPE segment with the YC500, the first-ever dualmodule microinverter saving installers time and money on the job site. Then we did it again with the YC1000, the world’s first true 3-phase, 4-module unit for commercial applications and still the top seller in its product class. But it’s not enough to be the first – you need a commitment to be the best. And APsystems’ reliability is leading the pack.
APsystems
Thanks to smart engineering, our microinverters have about 30 percent fewer components than competing brands, leading to higher reliability and lower costs at every point in the production and distribution chain.
600 Ericksen Ave NE | Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98110 (844) 666-7035 APsystems.com
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Multi-module offerings like the groundbreaking YC500i microinverter, designed and built for today’s high-output modules, compound the savings while increasing solar harvest for customers. With a broad and growing product portfolio, APsystems offers installers intelligent, affordable microinverter solutions, plug-and-power features and hassle-free installation. Today, with hundreds of thousands of units installed around the globe, APsystems microinverters have produced more than 130 GWh of energy with a carbon offset of over 95,000 tons. Innovative and reliable, powerful and proven – that’s APsystems.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Aurora Bearing Company was founded
v bration levels, they can quickly develop excess clearance do to the deformation of the relatively soft race material.
in 1971 and manufactures the world’s most complete range of rod end and spherical bearings. Configurations range from 2-piece economy commercial and molded race construction through 3-piece precision designs. Aurora also produces a full line of military spec rod ends,spherical bearings, and journal bushings. Custom designed rod ends, spherical bearings, and linkages are a specialty.
Aurora Bearing Co’s new LCOM Spherical Bearings outperform “LS” bearings
Like all Aurora Bearing spherical bearings, the LCOM series features a one piece steel race-way, swaged around the ball for a smooth, precise, close tolerance fit, along with the benefit of the strength and vibration resistance of steel. In addition, this series is optionally available with Aurora’s proprietary AT series PTFE liner, for a zero clearance, self lubricat-ing fit.
Aurora LCOM Spherical Bearings were
Aurora Bearing Company 901 Aucutt Rd. Montgomery, IL 60538 Phone: 630.859.2030 Fax: 630.859.0971 www.aurorabearing.com
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designed to offer a higher level of performance with dimensional interchangeability for the “LS” spherical bearing category; a market segment which has remained largely unchanged since the 1950s. “LS” bearings are characterized by being of 3 or 4 piece construction, with an inner ball, an outer ring, and a one or two piece brass, bronze, or cop-per alloy race between. Since the early 1950’s users of these bearings, which are also mar-keted with a “FLBG”, “RS”, or “VBC” prefix, have had to accept the low strength and poor vibration resistance of these bearings do to the low strength race material. Aurora’s LCOM bearings incorporate superior materials and manufacturing processes to overcome the performance deficiencies associated with “LS” bearings.
This weakness is addressed in the Aurora Bearing Company’s COM-M series spherical bearings. Like all Aurora inch dimension spheri-cal bearings, these metric bearings all feature a 1 piece steel race way, cold formed around a chrome plated, alloy steel ball for strength, precision and structural integrity. Aurora COM-M series bearings are available in sizes from 3mm to 30mm., and follow the dimensions of DIN 648 schedule K. Bearings are optionally available with Aurora’s self lubricating AT series ptfe liner, for a smooth, zero clearance fit that is self lubricating and maintenance free.
Maintenance free & cor-rosion resistant rod ends from Aurora The Aurora CM/CW-ET series rod ends
offer a combination of features unique in the rod end industry. Instead of the low strength steels typically found in stainless rod ends, the ET series features bodies made from heat treated 17-4PH material. Not only do they offer excellent corrosion resistance compared to conventional rod ends, they provide greater load capacity, strength and durability as well. The ET series comes standard with Aurora’s exclusive AT2100 PTFE liner. This, combined with a heat treated 440C stainless ball, gives a durable, zero clearance, self lubricating, maintenance free bearing interface to go with the benefits of the heat treated body. Their two piece design allows these high performance features to be exploited at an economical price. The Aurora ET series bearings can be used to enhance the perfor-mance of equipment in wash down, marine, and other environments that require extra corrosion resistance.
COM-M Bearings are stronger choice for DIN ISO 12240-1 applications
Metric spherical plain bearings built to DIN ISO 12240-1 (formerly DIN 648) schedule K often are made with inner races or rings made of brass, bronze or copper. For many low demand applications these bearings have proven to give satisfactory service. However, in applications with high loads and/or high
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
For years the brand AXITEC is one of the qualitatively leading global manufacturers of solar modules. The engineering in Germany controls the global production capacities of 300 MWp. The core competence comprises the complete process chain for solar modules from development and manufacturing through quality assurance to sales and service. With its US headquarters, in New
The Future is Now!
Jersey as well as additional warehousing, AXITEC offers customers solar modules and
AXITEC is in the prime position to always use the latest technology in the production of solar modules. It is no surprise then that AXITEC is one of the leading companies as far as technology and cost are concerned.
quick services throughout the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean Islands.
Leading Technologies AXITEC partnered with SolarEdge to manufacture the AXIplus smart module, which includes a built in SolarEdge DC optimizer box. Product Versatility AXITEC offers polycrystalline and monocrystalline modules in multiple different sizes and designs. From black frame to silver frame, from 60 cells to 72 cells, AXITEC has the right module to benefit any size installation. Quality Prevails Years of experience in development, production and distribution of solar modules enable AXITEC to provide above-average guarantees. Whether positive tolerances, 12 years guarantee or linear performance guarantee, the customer always receives an added value of quality and performance.
AXITEC, LLC 75 Twinbridge Drive, Suite E Pennsauken, NJ 08110 Phone 856.813.9386 or 856.701.2187 info@axitecsolar.com axitecsolar.us
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www.solarpowerworldonline.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Vertical Integration from Design to Installation of Customized Solar Projects Baja Carports specializes in designing, engineering, supplying, and installing high-tensile, light-gauge steel Solar Support Structures. We customize your solar project to provide a high quality, cost effective structure, tailored to optimize specific structural objectives for commercial, municipal, and residential developments. These projects include, Solar Carports, Ground-Mounts, RV/ Boat Storage and Solar/EV Charging Stations. After 36 years in business, Baja Carports has perfected the “Design to Implementation” process, leading the solar carport industry and provided invaluable support to our clients nationwide.
BAJA CARPORTS | is a California based company established in 1981, serving the entire United States, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean islands. Our professional staff provides design, engineering and turnkey construction services for Solar Support Structures to a wide range of public and private clients. Baja Carports was created with the desire to better serve the client by being a “project advocate.” We are committed to quality and efficiency, performing with the client’s best interest in mind at all times. We are proud of our in-house engineering and construction services, offering a turnkey approach that allows for us to assist our clients every step of the way. Our greatest accomplishment is maintaining a strong, nationally recognized company with a business reputation for delivering high quality construction and client satisfaction, which results in consistent repeat business and client referrals. This sets us apart from our competitors.
Baja Construction Co. Inc. Corporate Headquarters: 223 Foster Street Martinez, CA 94553
THE MISSION OF BAJA CARPORTS | To provide the highest quality construction services and products to all project shareholders including municipalities, agencies, developers, designers, and contractors. We help clients achieve project goals with creative, cost-efficient and custom solutions from inception to completion.
T: 1-800-366-9600 F: 1-925-229-0161 bajacarports.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
CPS America launched in 2012 under the umbrella of Chint Group, a $6B energy focused industrial firm - sometimes called the “GE of Asia”. CPS championed 3-phase string inverter architecture in America for commercial and industrial PV applications. The CPS line of 14-60kW inverters earned #1 market share in the USA by 2015 (GTM Research).
Americas leading 3-Phase string inverter maker CPS introduced advanced 3-phase string inverters in 2012 when nearly all DG projects used central inverters. Also, CPS entered the USA when a surplus of incumbent suppliers were already in place (no one wanted another inverter supplier!). CPS was first to evangelize 3-phase string architecture from standpoint of overall life-cycle costs including soft costs, installed costs (including BoS) and service expenses. In our first year, most resisted changing from central inverters, but today, almost no one uses central inverters for DG projects. CPS changed the ‘cost’ game in Amercia - CPS supply chain and engineering were able to drive costs down by 25% or more verses other active suppliers. And, year after year, with newer product’s CPS drove costs down further. CPS cost leadership led the way for inverter price reduction from approximately $0.22/W in 2012 to well under $0.10/W today. Others followed or gave up and exited the industry.
Chint Power Systems America 7060 Koll Center Parkway #318 Pleasanton, CA 94566
CPS is a leader of global supply chain optimization - no other Chinese headquartered inverter firm was successful in American until CPS proved that strong engineering and operations from Asia could be complemented with local USA service, applications engineering, fulfillment and support. Execution of this global supply chain is hard! But, CPS was first to prove it can be done well. Now others have followed and it is good for the USA solar industry.
AmericaSales@ChintPower.com HOTLINE: 855-584-7168 www.chintpowersystems.com
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CPS leadership is challenging inverter norms to help the industry. Thank you America - we are here to support you!
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
DPW Solar mounting structures are manufactured by Preformed Line Products (PLP) in Albemarle, NC. We are a major manufacturer and supplier of innovative and reliable PV mounting hardware solutions, since 1993.
PV Mounting Solutions for any Application DPW Solar racking systems are engineered and tested to provide superior strength, longer life and lower installation costs. We design and manufacture a broad selection of field-proven solutions for utility scale, commercial, and residential installations. Professional installers from coast to coast rely on our enhanced systems and easy to install designs plus the added value from our technical customer support. Our 20+ years of PV solar industry experience coupled with domestic manufacturing capabilities, allow for quick and precise response to customer needs. DPW Solar Corporate Headquarters 660 Beta Drive Mayfield Village, OH 44143 Telephone:440.461.5200 Web Site: www.preformed.com E-mail: inquiries@preformed.com Albuquerque Office 1700 Louisiana Ave., Suite 130 Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110 Telephone: 800.260.3792 Fax: 505.889.3548
Roof Mount Systems include: • • • •
Power Rail™ — Residential and Commercial POWER DISK™ POWER XPRESSTM - Ballasted Roof Mount Ballasted Power Rail™
Ground and Pole Mount Systems include: • • • • •
Power Peak™ — Utility Scale and Distributor Kits Multi-Pole Mounts (MPM-G2) Large Ground Mounts (LGM) Top-of-Pole Mounts (TPM) Side-of-Pole Mounts (SPM)
You can always count on the reliability of our USA manufactured products, and the dedicated service of our people, day in and day out, year after year.
Web Site: www.DPWSolar.com E-mail: info@dpwsolar.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y] EcoFasten Solar
The EcoFasten Solar line of PV roof mounts and components utilize the
Committed to the connection
same patented, watertight compression technology that’s been used by our sister company in the rooftop snow management business since the mid-
EcoFasten Solar engineers and manufactures PV roof mount systems that are designed with the installer in mind. Because the company was founded by a former roofer with 4 decades of experience, the integrity of the roof has always been our top priority. Every product in the EcoFasten line meets or exceeds roofing industry best practices, as well as state and international building codes.
1990’s. Now at the forefront of the industry, our product line is relied on by the top solar installers in the country.
New product development and design are critical components of any manufacturing company, and intensive R & D is essential in creating systems that work, systems that are reliable, and systems that are watertight. At EcoFasten Solar, we stay ahead of the curve by utilizing our ability to anticipate the needs of the installer. We also work closely with the top solar developers, racking system manufacturers, and commercial installation companies to fine-tune the development of innovative mounting solutions that are fast and easy to install, cost-efficient, rugged in fabrication, and unsurpassed in quality.
EcoFasten Solar® 4741 W. Polk St., Ste.4 Phoenix, AZ 85043 Phone: 877.859.3947 Fax: 602.272.4668 info@ecofastensolar.com www.ecofastensolar.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Ecolibrium Solar is an established market leader, designing and supplying innovative solar racking and support solutions for commercial and residential rooftops. With offices in Ohio and Colorado and in-field support located strategically across the country, Ecolibrium Solar is committed to working closely with our customers to support successful projects.
Ecolibrium Solar is revolutionizing the solar power market. In 2011, after more than a year of extensive research and development, what began with a blank page evolved into the reinvention of the solar mounting system. Today, the innovation continues. Our research team combines expertise from the automotive, polymer, construction, and solar industries to create next-generation products that make solar energy more user-friendly and accessible.
EcoX
EcoX is the next generation rail-less racking system from Ecolibrium Solar. EcoX is optimized for a fast and simple installation process. Modules are dropped into place from above and there is never a need to walk on modules. Pre-assembled components and quick connections make EcoX easy to install. EcoX is certified to UL2703 for mechanical loading, grounding and bonding, and fire resistance, and ICC waterproof testing. This ensures a code compliant, robust solution designed to last the life of the project.
EcoFoot2+ Ohio Office 244 W. State Street Athens, OH 45701 740.249.1877 Sales@EcolibriumSolar.com Colorado Office 4635 Nautilus Court South, Suite A Boulder, Colorado 80301 FieldSupport@EcolibriumSolar.com EcolibriumSolar.com
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With the industry’s fastest-rated installation time of 13.5 modules per installer-hour, validated by DNV-GL, EcoFoot2+ ensures your project can be installed and completed as quickly as possible. Backed by in-house testing and industry leading third-party validation, EcoFoot2+ is designed to last the life of the solar project.
Introducing EcoFoot3: The Heavy Duty, Low Ballast Weight Commercial Flat Roof System
Ecolibrium Solar builds on its commercial rooftop experience with this sleek ballasted racking system. EcoFoot3’s optimized design delivers the fast installation time of a modular system, coupled with the strength and weight reduction of an interconnected structure. Through extensive testing, load-sharing has been taken to a new level, minimizing logistics and costs while protecting roof integrity.
solarpowerworldonline.com/leadership Voting for this company will identify it as a leader in the solar power industry.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Specialists in measuring, monitoring, and control of current, power, and energy. We offer a huge selection of in stock product, friendly and quick customer service responses, part number cross referencing, technical support, and same day shipping on in stock orders. Flex-Core; when you need it now
Flex-Core is a leader in solar system monitoring. Our team of seasoned application engineers have been providing the products for monitoring DC systems since 1975. Our equipment has been utilized in residential, commercial, industrial, military, and utility applications. The new Flex-Core catalog has a full line of transducers for monitoring the AC, DC, or anything in between. We have solutions for battery charging or discharging, inverter input or output, co-generation, and load demand control. We can provide electrical measurements in analog, digital, or discrete control outputs. Flex-Core offers solutions for single or multi-array designs, with tailored input/ output ranges, custom matched sensor sizes, or complete design services.
614.889.6152 F: 614.876.8538 4970 Scioto-Darby Rd. Hilliard, OH 43026 sales@flex-core.com flex-core.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Fronius USA LLC, headquartered in Portage, IN, is a leading manufacturer for solar solutions and has been shaping the US solar industry since 2002. The company is the biggest subsidiary of Fronius International GmbH, headquartered in Austria. Fronius has three divisions: Perfect Welding, Solar Energy and Perfect Charging. Through innovation and new technologies, Fronius has become a leading resource for high quality solutions in each industry they serve. Fronius’ innovation is guided by the vision of 24 hours of sun, a future where 100% of energy needs are covered by renewable energy. For more information, visit www.fronius-usa.com.
A STRONG VISION
FRONIUS SMART METER
Fronius believes in a future where we cover our energy needs 100% with renewable energy sources. A world of 24 hours of sun. To make this vision a reality, Fronius offers technologies and solutions that make it possible to generate and store renewable energy with incomparable efficiency and to distribute and consume that energy in a smart way.
If you are facing feed-in limitations for a solar system, or if you would like to monitor a house’s energy consumption, Fronius offers the Fronius Smart Meter, a bidirectional energy meter. Thanks to high accuracy and fast communication via Modbus RTU, the meter is suitable for various applications, such as dynamic feed-in management or self-supply systems. Together with Fronius Solar.web, the Fronius Smart Meter offers a detailed overview of energy consumption within a home or business.
FRONIUS SNAPINVERTER LINE The Fronius SnapINverter line offers integrated Wi-Fi and SunSpec Modbus interfaces, NEMA 4X rating, wide voltage windows, multiple MPP trackers and easy installation in 15 minutes or less. With the identical look & feel, the Fronius SnapINverters reduce cost for training and servicing. Power classes range from 1.5 to 24.0 kW and cover residential and commercial systems. FRONIUS RAPID SHUTDOWN BOX Fronius USA LLC 6797 Fronius Drive Portage, IN 46368/ USA Main: +1 (219) 734-5500 Toll Free: 1-877-FRONIUS fronius-usa.com
As part of the Fronius solution, the Fronius Rapid Shutdown Box provides the ultimate NEC 2014 code (690.12) compliant solution while enhancing rooftop and firefighter safety. The Fronius Rapid Shutdown Box is a reliable and easy to install solution for all Fronius SnapINverters.
FRONIUS SOLAR.WEB Fronius believes that every solar system should have monitoring capabilities. Not only to ensure highest performance and protected investments, but also to offer added value to system owners. Fronius Solar.web provides all tools that are needed and goes beyond basic monitoring. It offers remote maintenance tools and works as a selling feature to potential future system owners. It also helps to increase customer satisfaction and trust. Since Fronius inverters have integrated Wi-Fi, connecting a system to the internet does not require additional hardware.
24HRS
24hoursofsun.com
SUN VOTE
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
GameChange Solar is a leading manufacturer of fixed tilt and tracker solar racking systems, with over 1.2GW installed. GameChange systems combine fast install, bankable quality and unbeatable value through superior engineering, innovative design and high volume manufacturing.
GameChange Solar offers bankable quality value pricing fixed tilt racking and tracker systems. Genius Tracker™ is a single axis tracker with a power density of 99.3%. With Black & Veatch technical assessment, CPP wind tunnel tested and rated 150mph, ETL / UL 2703 tested, this reliable linear actuator drive system has a 40-year operating life and is IP 66 rated for operation in harsh environmental conditions. Every drive actuator has its own battery backup and wirelessly linked controllers, eliminating all trenching and Tru3D-Gimbal bearings account for pile installation being out of plumb, out of azimuth, and out of vertical and east-west alignment. The self-powered rows eliminate the central drive and allow for uninterrupted grass cutting and panel washing.
GameChange Solar 152 West 57th St 17th Floor New York, NY 10019 212.388.5160 info@gamechangesolar.com www.gamechangesolar.com
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Pour-in-Place™ Ballasted Ground System features: self leveling technology with adjustable feet and slots allowing fast install and more than 7" vertical adjustability to navigate sloping ground prior to concrete pouring; integrated grounding and wire management; no gravel beds or other expensive ground preparations required for leveling as needed for precast.
Max-Span™ Post System is a value-driven system which supports all double-sided glass thin film and other modules. Its galvanized Z purlins have integrated trays for easy wire management, and it’s rugged beam and brace rapidly attach to pile with just six bolts.
Grid-Lite™ Roof System is a cost effective, low weight ballasted roof system.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
GroWatt has a full line of solar inverters (grid connected & off grid), monitoring systems and storage products for the solar market. We sell to project developers and residential installers and distributors. Our residential single phase product line is perfect for small or large installations. Our Commercial three phase units make all large projects easier! We also have hybrid inverters, storage solutions and monitoring with integrated wifi. Our warranty is a full replacement and we have a full technical staff and manufacturing team ready to help.
Great Products, Great Service, Great Price!
Your next project deserves GroWatt.. GroWatt has an 8GW annual manufacturing capacity, big enough to handle any project. We have offices all over the world, a true global provider. Although our pricing is more than competitive our quality is second to none. We stand behind our products with a full replacement warranty.
GroWatt USA, Inc. 2619 Aspinwall Court Fairfield, CA 94534 growatt-america.com
Our team is comprised of solar experts with decades of experience in each market. We can easily serve all of North, Central & South America as well as Mexico and the Caribbean. We continuously improve our product offering and stay up with all regulations such as rapid shut down and AFCI. We provide value added services like consulting, training, engineering for our customers - making us a true partner and not just a vendor! With over 15GW of installs worldwide, GroWatt is a proven partner that helps you meet your financial targets and gives your operations team the peace of mind they need for long term success!
GroWatt - The Best Products Under The Sun...
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y] Leader of the New Wave of Solar Inverters
There’s a lot of hype in solar, with many products claiming to be revolutionary when the reality doesn’t quite match up. HiQ Solar focuses on 3-phase inverters for commercial installations, and are quietly changing the way people think about 208 and 480V projects. Our NEMA6 3-phase string inverter is a rugged problem-solver. Have a difficult roof layout? Unequal strings, are no problem. Harsh conditions? It’s sealed and ready. A retrofit with no mounting space, or a carport with difficult aesthetic restrictions? Tuck it under the array out of sight. Try the award winning TrueString today.
Based in the heart of Silicon Valley, HiQ Solar is a team of entrepreneurs and industry veterans focused on the needs of commercial rooftops, carports and tracker systems. Where 3-phase string inverters go bigger and bigger for low cost, HiQ has built low cost into a small inverter with features that also lower the total cost of installation. With this approach they won the 2016 “Best Solar Product Innovator” award from Global Energy News, the Intersolar PV Award for 2015 and the NREL “Best Venture” Award for 2014. Is that leadership? We think so.
HiQ Solar 2030 Duane Avenue, Suite 101 Santa Clara, CA 95054 (707) 888-4090 www.hiqsolar.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
s inception in 1983, IXYS tion (Nasdaq: IXYS), a Valley power semiconducSince its inception in 1983, IXYS pany, has been developing Corporation (Nasdaq: IXYS), a Silicon ogy-driven products to im-
THE WORLD OF IXYS
• MOSFET Gate Drivers • IGBT Gate Drivers • Optocouplers IXYS brings together all • Solid State Relays for a designer of power www.ixysic.com or www.ixys.com
• MOSFETs • BiMOSFETs company, ower conversion efficiency, Valley power semiconductor • XPT IGBTs e clean energy, improve Rectifiers has been developing• Standard technology-driven • Schottky Diodes ion and provide advanced • Fast Rectifiers products to improve power conversion • All in Discrete and Module Packages s in the transportation, mediVisit our website: www.ixys.com
the building blocks required conversion at almost every power level. From Milliamps to Megawatts IXYS is able to provide the best available rectifier, switching, isolation and control products together in one place.
generate clean energy, improve telecom industries.efficiency, IXYS eer in the development of automation and provide advanced emiconductors, integrated products in the transportation, medical and and RF systems that eftelecom industries. IXYS is a pioneer in the monitor electrical voltage to • Microcontrollers development of power semiconductors, maximum effect with least
IXYS Power is providing efficient solutions for virtually any power conversion application. Rectifier products • IGBT Press Packs such as Schottky diodes, line frequency and fast diodes • Rectifier Diodes (Studs and Capsules) as well Diodes as thyristors are available in discrete packages • Fast Recovery (Studs and Capsules) • Phase asControl well Thyristors as modules. For your switching needs IXYS • Fast Switching Thyristors offers some leading edge and the highest power www.ixys.com or www.ixyslongbeach.com available in MOSFET, IGBT, BI-MOSFET and GTO technology which are offered in discrete solutions and both industry standard and custom multichip module package outlines. In addition, we have the ability to • IGBT Press Packs offer these power products as customer specific sub • Rectifier Diodes (Studs and Capsules) which may be assembled world wide. • Fastsystems Recovery Diodes (Studs and Capsules)
• SOCs
ture of energy.
• Creative Reference Designs integrated circuits and RF systems that
www.ixys.com or www.zilog.com
effectively monitor electrical voltage
to produce maximum effect with least
ckeye Drive -457-9000 8-416-0223 s.net
expenditure of energy. • GaN Amplifiers • Gunn Diodes • Wireless Amplifiers • HBT Amplifiers • WiMax Power Amplifiers • Microwave Amplifiers • MMIC Amplifiers • GaAs FET Devices www.ixys.com or www.mwtinc.com
• Phase Control Thyristors • Fast Switching Thyristors www.ixys.com or www.ixysuk.com Providing solutions for
• Laser Diode Driver Module • Pulse Generators • Signal Generators • RF Power MOSFETs • RF Power Modules • RF Drivers www.ixys.com or www.ixyscolorado.com
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1590 Buckeye Drive 408.457.9000 www.ixys.com F: 408.416.0223
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engineering leadership for a person or ngineering leadership by a specific t, or an overall company accomplishment.
VOTE DESIGN WORLD
• Solar Bits/Modules • Solar Dies Through MWT and IXYS Colorado, Ixys Visit our website: http://www.ixyskorea.com or www.ixys.com
manufactures
RF and microwave products.
With Zilog´s industry proven and rugged MCU´s, we complement our POWER and IC products with matched digital power management and embedded control. Ixys has introduced unique power • RFID Ics • Customized Design Services management reference designs to control motors, • RFID Accessories LED light, battery charging and motion sensing. The www.ixys.com or http://www.incide-semi.com/ added S3 low cost MCU product lines serve consumer white goods, home automation and remote controls. 1-408-457-9069 With the Radio Pulse Divison we offer SOC´s that integrate RF Zigbee transceivers and MCU´s for the consumer security, industrial, home automation, energy management, LED lightning and IoT markets. Bringing all of these technologies together under one company allows THE WORLD OF IXYS to offer the power conversion designer a one stop solution.
ONLINE January 2017
isolation, control and feedback, IXYS IC division (CLARE) designs and produces SOI base HVIC´s flexible display drivers, driver IC´s, optically isolated drivers, solid state relays (SSR), isolated AC switches, optocouplers, photovoltaic chips and ASIC´s. With the IXYS San Sebastian Division (ISS), we provide advanced RFID IC´s, solutions and Custom • Portable Solar Chargers IC design. • Solar Cells
www.designworldonline.com
For further information visit: www.ixys.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
KACO new energy is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of solar inverters. With nearly 1000 employees in 16 countries, the company offers inverters for every array size, whether residential, commercial or utility-scale. Since 1999, The Company has shipped over 8 GW of PV inverters around the world. The company was the first inverter manufacturer to achieve fully carbon-neutral production and is rapidly heading towards power self-sufficiency. Learn More: www.kaco-newenergy.com
KACO new energy is one of the fastest-growing inverter companies in the Americas – a result of its commitment to quality, top-notch performance and state-of-the-art technology. KACO new energy produces a robust portfolio of inverters for residential, commercial and utility-scale applications. Leading developers continue to choose KACO new energy because of its superior engineering and unmatched levels of technical support and customer service. KACO new energy has been in business for more than 100 years – and has been making superior, German-quality PV inverters since the 1990s. It’s been manufacturing many of them in San Antonio, Texas since 2013. KACO new energy
The company’s residential product portfolio includes the Ultraverter, an MLPE solution and the TL1
Headquarters, North America 4036 Binz-Engleman Road, Suite 208
KACO new energy’s TL3 series ranges from a 30kw commercial solution to a 2200kw utility-grade inverter, with plans to further expand the utility line card in 2017
San Antonio, TX 78219 USA Phone- +1 210 446-4238 Fax- +1 210 437-3452
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Additionally, the company is the only inverter manufacturer in the US which offers completely in-house manufactured customized power stations, making it a true turnkey solution.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Kipp & Zonen provides class-leading instruments for measuring solar radiation and atmospheric properties in Meteorology, Climatology, Hydrology, Industry, Renewable Energy, Agriculture and Public Health. Kipp & Zonen is the specialist in the measurement of solar and sky radiation,
Organization Kipp & Zonen is an independent organisation with its head office in Delft, The Netherlands. This is where the heart lies of our passion for the profession with the following specialised departments: Research & Development of products, technology and software •
Marketing & Sales
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Service & Calibration
instrumentation and accessories, from
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Manufacture & Quality Control
reliable cost-effective products to the best
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Logistics, Purchase & Finance
from the ultraviolet to the far infrared. We offer a complete range of high quality
World wide network
performance available. Our pyranometers, for example, are used in meteorological networks around the world. Furthermore, our expertise and close links
To support the countless and various Kipp & Zonen customers around the world, we have offices in:
with the scientific community have led to
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France
high-end solutions for the measurement of
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The United States of America
atmospheric properties such as stratospheric
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Singapore
Ozone, UV Spectra and evapo-transpiration.
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The Netherlands
Our international network of distributors provides local sales and service in over 40 countries.
All Smart, with Six New Instruments Kipp & Zonen USA Inc. 125 Wilbur Place Bohemia, NY 11716 USA T: +1 631 589 2065 F: +1 631 589 2068 kipp.usa@kippzonen.com kippzonen.com
Global, direct, diffuse, UV, long-wave and short-wave.
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ONLINE
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You can now have a completely Smart solar and sky radiation monitoring station at all performance levels. Thanks to the expansion of our range of instruments with the new SMP6, SMP21 and SMP22 pyranometers, the SGR3 and SGR4 pyrgeometers, and the SUV5 total UV radiometer. Our Smart range has as the main benefit a RS-485 Modbus® interface, combined with an amplified analogue output. You can now connect instruments directly to your digital data acquisition system for live radiation measurements, to monitor the status and power supply and to keep track of the calibration history. Both digital and amplified analogue outputs can be run through hundreds of meters of cable. Moreover, multiple Smart instruments (up to 247) can be digitally connected to one network cable, saving a significant amount of cabling costs.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y] MageMount Rail-less Solar Mounting System
Magerack designs and manufactures solar mounting products for solar system installations. MageMount is rail-less solar
Magerack provides innovative solar mounting solutions in solar market.
mounting solution installed like a railbased mounting system with separate roof attachments and interlocking module connectors. It provides complete solar
MageMount is a rail-less solar mounting system that is installed like a rail-based solar mounting system with separate roof attachments and interlocking module connectors. It provides complete solar mounting solutions with roof attachments for all roof types at lower cost and reduced installation time with familiar and fewer components. Magerack Solar Mounting System is a rail-based complete solar mounting solution including all components from rail and clamps to roof attachments. Both systems are UL 2703 certified and Class ‘A’ Fire Rating. All components have integrated bonding capabilities.
mounting solutions with roof attachments for all roof types at lower cost and reduced installation time with fewer components. Magerack Solar Mounting System is railbased solar mounting solution including all components from rail and clamps to roof attachments. Both systems are UL 2703 certified and Class ‘A’ Fire Rating.
Magerack is also the inventor of the innovative L-foot flashing, which significantly reduces installation time and cost. Magerack L-foot with flashing is the most cost-effective L-foot with flashing available. It is so easy and straight forward to install that it is almost impossible for installers to make mistakes and install it incorrectly.
Magerack Corporation 4453 Enterprise Street FREMONT, CA 94538 510.656.6661 www.magerack.com
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MageMount is Magerack’s innovative rail-less mounting solution. Module connector and roof attachment are separate components. The innovative module connectors interlock modules structurally. Roof attachments are installed and attached to modules with MageBolt. Roof attachments’ lateral position and module height can be adjusted through familiar slots during module installation. The system is as strong as rail-based system and there are 30% fewer roof penetrations.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Founded in 1993, Mounting Systems is a global leader in the design, engineering, and manufacture of cutting-edge support structures for photovoltaic and solar thermal systems for customers. With over twenty-four years of experience, Mounting Systems has developed extensive knowledge and capabilities providing highly cost-effective systems for residential through utility scale projects worldwide. Mounting Systems supports its clients with manufacturing facilities in Rangsdorf (just south of Berlin), Germany and West Sacramento, California. Additional offices in Singapore and Japan service local markets.
Why is Mounting Systems a leader in solar? Systems for any application: Mounting Systems’ product portfolio includes systems for all types of applications. Solutions for residential systems are available for virtually all roofing technologies, including rail-free solutions, as well as commercial flat roof installations. The Sigma line of ground mount systems provides project-specific aluminum, steel, or steel pipe options in either one or twopost configurations. Sophisticated engineering: Our Engineering team strives to continuously improve our technology and produce the highest quality mounting systems on the market. Decreased part count and extensive preassembled parts throughout our product lines substitutes higher cost on-site labor with lower cost factory preassembly. Click, set and done Clickstone technology provides integrally bonded module clamps that bond modules to rails in our Alpha+ and Tau+ systems and to the standoff in our rail-free system, Element. Continuous involvement with certification agencies and thought leaders means Mounting Systems’ products meet required international certifications like UL and CE.
Mounting Systems, Inc. 820 Riverside Parkway West Sacramento, CA 95605 Toll free +1 855 731 9996 Fax +1 916 287 2269 Info-us@mounting-systems.com mounting-systems.us
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Service: With locations in the USA, Germany, Singapore and Japan, Mounting Systems can respond quickly to customers’ worldwide service requirements, provide quick and thorough answers, and be a responsible long-term partner for growth. Experience: With over 24 years of experience in the solar industry and more than 8GW of installed capacity worldwide, Mounting systems is a strong business partner offering uncompromising quality, service and in-depth understanding of the customer’s needs. As a dynamic international company with product installed in over 40 countries, we offer quality, service and reliable delivery. Our goal is to develop, produce and deliver innovative products, system solutions and services for customers.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Panasonic a leader in consumer electronics, business solutions and industrial components; has been the leader in the solar business since 1975, providing high quality and high efficiency solar panels for 20 years. With so many years of experience, Panasonic’s corporate goal is to provide durable, efficient and high performance products to its customers. Panasonic’s product warranty is one of top in the industry by providing up to 25 years of output warranty. Solar Panels HIT® provides many years of reliable operation over the system’s entire life cycle. These panels are highly efficient and produces more power per square feet than traditional products. Learn more at business.panasonic.com/solarpanels
Why Panasonic? With a solar system you are making a long-term and high value investment, hence the quality of the modules is of great impact. Choose a renowned brand that will give you a reliable guarantee and which you can trust.
Experience: Panasonic a leader in consumer electronics, business solutions and industrial components has been in the solar business for 40 years, providing high efficiency and high quality solar panels for 20 years. With so many years of experience, Panasonic’s corporate goal is to provide durable, efficient and high performance products to its customers. Long-term track record: we can guarantee our customers decades of trouble-free operation and constant high performance of our modules.
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N330/N325
Reliability: HIT® provides many years of reliable operation over the system’s entire life cycle.
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Efficiency: HIT® is highly efficient and produces more power per square feet than traditional products.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Pika Energy is a U.S.-based manufacturer of innovative power electronics including transformerless islanding inverters and solar power converters. Our made-in-Maine technology is designed to make residential and commercial solar projects simpler, more
Clean power electronics for a brighter future.
flexible and faster to install. The Pika Energy Island™ uses a single grid-tied inverter to manage solar PV and optional battery storage on a common DC bus. Perfect for backup power and self-supply, the UL-listed Pika Energy Island is the go-to choice for any grid-tied installation that will include batteries, whether now or in the future.
Pika Energy’s mission is to lead the transition from carbon-emitting fossil fuel sources to fully renewable clean forms of energy. We seek to drive this transition through flexible, powerful and smart U.S.-made power electronics. Our patented 380Vdc bus, the REbus Nanogrid™, uses intelligent control to automate the flow of power and is at the heart of all our products.
Our customers include solar installation professionals and manufacturing partners who use our OEM components to develop tightly integrated, powerful and cost-effective clean energy solutions.
Learn more about Pika Energy and our mission at pika-energy.com.
We named our company for the North American pika, one of the most climate-endangered species on our continent. All our products are codenamed for organisms that face extinction as a result of global climate change.
Pika Energy 35 Bradley Drive, Stop 1 Westbrook, ME 04092 207.887.9105 pika-energy.com
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The Pika Energy Island, our latest line of transformerless inverters, launched in 2016 to meet high demand for simpler, smarter ways to build storage-ready solar PV systems for residential and commercial use. Available in both 7.6kW single-phase and 11.4kW three-phase models, the Pika Energy Island system is popular with solar installers due to its simple design and ability to achieve a variety of solar-plusstorage applications.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Vote for RBI Solar — 2017 When EPCs and developers need a dependable solar mounting provider, they look to RBI Solar, Inc. As a single-source provider, we take responsibility for the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of the most cost-efficient racking systems in the industry. From ground mount, roof mount, carport, and landfill solar solutions, RBI Solar mounting systems are backed by over 85 years of manufacturing experience and a growing team of over 115 professionals that act as an extension of our customers’ staff. RBI Solar is one of few racking companies in the industry which offers all possible foundation solutions for project sites across the U.S., nationwide installation capabilities, and a proprietary pull test procedure that reduces overall project costs.
Corporate Headquarters 5513 Vine Street Cincinnati OH 45217
RBI Solar doubled the size of its Cincinnati, OH-based team in 2016, allowing the company to increase the number of active projects and provide some of the best customer service in the industry. The launch of the next generation ground mount—an efficient PV mounting solution specifically designed to reduce costs for large utility and commercial projects—demonstrated RBI Solar’s continued commitment to customer needs and testing its systems against the toughest solar racking standards.
Telephone: 513-242-2051 Fax: 513-242-0816 E-mail: info@rbisolar.com rbisolar.com
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ONLINE
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Vote for Renusol — 2017 Renusol America is leading the US solar industry as an innovator in roof mounting systems for solar PV modules. The company has experienced significant growth since its launch in January 2011, with solar PV mounting systems installed across the U.S. and abroad. Acquired by Ohio-based RBI Solar in June of 2014, Renusol America’s relationship with RBI Solar offers customers a complementary source of rooftop, ground mount, and carport solutions for solar PV systems. Combining a strong heritage of excellence in German engineering with American innovation, Renusol America utilizes its extensive experience to create solar PV module mounting systems that install easily on flat or pitched roofs. These systems fit nearly all common PV systems for commercial, industrial, and private use.
Corporate Headquarters 1292 Logan Cir NW Atlanta, GA 30318 Telephone: 877-847-8919 E-mail: info@renusolamerica.com renusolamerica.com
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ONLINE
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Renusol’s systems are reliable, resilient, and designed for a long service life, thanks to stable, weatherresistant materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and 100% recycled high molecular weight polyethylene (HMWPE). The systems feature simple, pre-assembled parts to reduce overall inventory, simplify project planning, and reduce installation time. The Renusol GS ballasted ground mount system is a great solution for landfills, brownfield sites, and other challenging terrains. This ballasted, non-penetrating ground mount system transports easily and sets up quickly. Its universal design accommodates all common 72-cell PV modules and requires no grounding because it is made of non-conductive material. The Renusol GS’s simplicity requires no large equipment on the jobsite and only hand tools for installation thus reducing overall installation cost. The Renusol VS system is a versatile roof mount solution with an industry-leading strength-to-weight ratio. This system is a cost-effective, engineered solution compatible with any type of roof. As an innovator in solar PV mounting solutions, Renusol America has the experience to develop, produce, and install a mounting system that suits your needs and your budget.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Over 45 years of innovation and 450,000 installed projects stand behind Roof Tech,the first U.S. subsidiary of Yanegiken, Japan’s leading developer of roofing technologies. Since 1968, Yanegiken has designed roofing solutions and solar panel fittings to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Now Roof Tech products are available for the U.S. market, all based on Yanegiken’s own development and manufacturing capabilities. With headquarters in Chula Vista, California, Roof Tech’s sales team is ready to provide unique PV mounting solutions throughout the U.S.
PV mounting with integrated flashing ICC certified Innovative products that embody the elegance of Japanese design. Lightweight, compact mounting solutions. Watertight performance in the most extreme weather. These are just some of the qualities that make Roof Tech the new leader in PV mounting solutions. Consider our three signature products:
Roof Tech
• • All the parts for a 2kW system? It’s in the bag! RT-[E] Mount® brackets are compact by design. All the parts for an entire 2kW system fit in a single, lightweight bag. It’s easy to carry and simple to install. And thanks to the butyl rubber flashing, RT-[E] Mount delivers watertight performance that stands the test of time.
Smarter PV mounting solutions from top of roof to bottom line®
Roof Tech Inc 333 H Street
• • All-in-one. Rail-less. Perfect for microinverter installations. RT-[E] Mount AIR® provides three inches of clearance from the roofing surface. The RT-[E] Mount AIR can be shipped with its own microinverter mounting bracket,a microinverter wire harness mounting bracket, and an array skirt.
Suite 5000 Chula Vista, California 91910 619.551.7029 roof-tech.us
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• • The patented PV frame that’s poised for partnership. U set Solar® is designed for efficient installation with fewer parts to save time and reduce shipping costs. We are now offering exclusive partnerships to PV manufacturers who wish to adapt their products to the U set Solar design.
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All Roof Tech products are 100% code compliant and have earned PE reports from 35 States with more to come. Our sales team is ready to provide distributors, installers and solar panel manufacturers with the ideal PV mounting solutions and superior service.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
For decades, S-5!® has produced innovative attachment solutions that make metal roofing the most cost-effective platform for rooftop ancillary attachment. S-5! has achieved international notoriety by designing easy-to-use products that outlast the roofs to which they are mounted, providing durable, trouble-free service. Manufactured in the U.S. to the highest quality standards at the lowest possible cost, S-5! clamps are made of compact, lightweight aluminum that is compatible with today’s Al-Zn coated sheet used for roofing. S-5!, with its unique innovations, tested holding strength, metallurgical compatibility, and do-no-harm attachment philosophy is the most trusted name in metal roofing attachment.
Why S-5! Is the Leader in Solar Since S-5!® innovated the first non-penetrating roof clamp more than two decades ago, it has been trusted on over 1.9 million roofs and is recognized as the international authority on ancillary attachment in the metal roofing industry. Founder and CEO, Rob Haddock, is universally recognized as one of the top metal roofing experts in the world. Frustrated with rooftop ancillary attachments that were difficult to install and performed poorly over time, Haddock transformed the industry with the innovative clamps that employ roundpoint setscrews that compress the seam material against the opposite wall of the clamp creating a mechanical interlock that protects the roofing material rather than penetrating or damaging it.
S-5! Attachment Solutions 8655 Table Butte Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (888) 825-3432 (719) 495-0045 (fax) info@s-5.com
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S-5! is now known as the metal roofing industry’s leading evangelist for the proven advantages of mounting solar panels onto metal roofs. Factors such as compatible service life, durability, and efficiency all contribute to making standing seam roofing and PV a “perfect marriage.” Solar integrators around the globe trust S-5! clamps for permanent attachment of solar panels to metal roofs. More megawatts have been mounted with S-5! than any other attachment product in the metal roofing industry. The S-5-PV Kit is the easiest, most cost-effective way to install solar panels directly to standing seam metal roofs, automatically providing a grounding path for the module frame. With no lugs or wiring required except to connect one string of modules to another and to ground the system, the S-5-PV Kit provides savings in labor and materials sufficient to pay for the entire attachment system.
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SMA is the solar inverter global market leader and one of the world’s largest PV O&M providers. The company was voted as the industry’s most preferred inverter supplier, on the strength of its quality and service, for the fifth year in a row according to a recent IHS Markit survey. With more than 35 years of experience and 50 GW+ of installed capacity, no one is more capable of supporting PV installers, EPCs, developers, and project owners.
Solar Inverter Leader and O&M Expert SMA offers the industry’s broadest product portfolio, including solutions for every market – residential, commercial, and utility – on-grid and off, around the world. SMA supports its partners with advanced, best-in-class inverter, monitoring, and control technology. In addition to its broad portfolio of technical solutions, SMA is a topranked O&M supplier and service organization that can support its partners for the life of their systems. SMA also leads the way in safety standards, regularly equipping its inverters with the latest features and functionality to comply with NEC standards, as well as completing testing to achieve UL listings when possible.
SMA America 6020 West Oaks Blvd. Ste 300 Rocklin, California 95765
As the solar industry charges ahead toward a smarter, more efficient grid, SMA’s products will continue to be on the cutting-edge, providing the latest technology, safety features, and most efficient performance on the market, while
www.sma-america.com
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keeping in mind the importance of simple installation, cost and time savings. SMA is committed to providing the highest quality service and most reliable product solutions.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
SolarEdge provides an intelligent inverter solution that has changed the way power is harvested and managed in solar photovoltaic systems. The SolarEdge DC optimized inverter system maximizes power generation at the individual PV module-level while lowering the cost of energy produced by the solar PV system. The SolarEdge system consists of power
SolarEdge is a top global inverter company
optimizers, inverters, storage solutions, and a cloud-based monitoring platform and addresses a broad range of solar market segments, from residential solar installations to commercial and small utilityscale solar installations.
SolarEdge invented an intelligent inverter solution that has revolutionized the way power is harvested and managed in a PV system. The SolarEdge DC optimized inverter system maximizes power generation at the module level while lowering the cost of energy produced by the PV system. Addressing a broad range of solar market segments, from residential to commercial and small utility-scale solar installations, the SolarEdge system consists of inverters, power optimizers, storage solutions, and a cloud-based monitoring platform.
SolarEdge North America 47505 Seabridge Dr. Fremont, CA 94538 T: 510-498-3200 F: 510-353-1895 Email: info@solaredge.com solaredge.com/us
SolarEdge technology, which allows maximum power production through module-level MPPT, optimal roof utilization through constraint-free design, and enhanced maintenance and accurate troubleshooting through module-level monitoring. Another benefit is DC shutdown for installers, maintenance personnel, and firefighters through its SafeDC™ mechanism. Since beginning commercial shipments in 2010, SolarEdge has shipped approximately 3.9 GW of its DC optimized inverter systems and products have been installed in PV systems in more than 100 countries. According to the GTM U.S. PV Leaderboard – Q3, 2016, SolarEdge is ranked #1 in the US residential inverter market as of Q2 2016 in MW installed and top 3 in the US commercial market.
The SolarEdge system enables superior power harvesting and module management by deploying power optimizers to each PV module while maintaining a competitive system cost by keeping the AC inversion and grid interaction centralized using a simplified DC-AC inverter. Module manufacturers, installers, and system owners enjoy the benefits of
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
SolarRoofHook has a wide range of innovative products for mounting solar panels onto residential roofs. We offer solutions for Asphalt Shingle, Flat and Curved Tile, Stone Coated Steel, and Metal roofs. All products are code compliant and PE certified. SolarRoofHook is a Division of Quickscrews International, the largest supplier of woodworking fasteners in the United States. Established in 1987, the company is best known for its innovation and creativity in bringing solutions to professional woodworkers and solar installers. SolarRoofHook can design, produce, and stock custom products within 60 days and we continually work with installers to deliver the right products for any type of roof.
SolarRoofHook has the most innovative roof attachments for mounting solar panels on residential roofs in the industry. We stock roof hooks and mounts for Flat Tile, Spanish Tile, Stone Coated Steel, Asphalt Shingle, and Metal roofs. Our most innovative product is our patented QuickBOLT™ for Asphalt Shingle Roofs. The QuickBOLT™ is the most cost effective solution for this roof type on the market. Instead of requiring bulky flashing to create a watertight seal, the QuickBOLT™ uses one 3” Stainless Steel EPDM Compression Washer which binds with the Asphalt Shingle roofing material and forms a 100% waterproof seal. In addition, the QuickBOLT™ has the fastest installation time in the country; install in less than 60 seconds per mount. Simply drill, seal, and mount… it’s that easy!
SolarRoofHook Corporate Office 5830 Las Positas Road
SolarRoofHook also provides many other innovative mounting solutions. Our wide selection of All Tile Roof Hooks can work on both Flat and Spanish Tile Roofs, with or without batons. We also have the most options for Stone Coated Steel Roofs, which are growing in popularity throughout the United States. If an installer is working on an uncommon roofing style, SolarRoofHook can provide you with a mounting solution. We are able to produce custom products, from start to finish, in as little as 60 days, allowing us to work with installers to deliver the exact products you need for any roofing style.
Livermore, Ca 94551 844.671.6045 solarroofhook.com
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Why SFR is a Leader in Solar Solar FlexRack is an industry-leading racking and project services company delivering bestin-class engineered solutions that translate to significant downstream project cost savings. It is their comprehensive approach of continuously advancing their design and technology, offering world-class project services and support, and their dedication and integrity in delivering the best service possible - that sets them apart. With nearly 50 years of metal fabrication experience, the company has a tradition of designing labor-savings that carry over to everything they manufacture. Solar FlexRack has over 1.5 GW of solar installed. Their formidable solar project solutions deliver reliable, long-term system performance. There’s one more factor that accompanies their clients’ successfully completed solar projects and it’s not to be under valued - peace of mind.
Solar FlexRack (SFR), a division of Northern States Metals, is an integrated solar company that offers custom-designed, fixed tilt ground mount and single-axis tracking systems in the commercial and utility scale, solar mounting industry. Solar FlexRack also offers full turnkey packages, including engineering, geotechnical, pullout testing, field, layout, and installation services to address the actual site conditions of an installation, providing a full scope of services from design to delivery and installation. SFR has completed more than 1.5 GW of solar racking installations in 32 states across America and five countries globally.
What You Need to Know About SFR It’s hard to measure what costs you’ll encounter when a project meets unexpected challenges. We all know the story. Solar FlexRack helps companies avoid these pitfalls. With decades of knowledge and experience behind their team, they deliver dependable products and best-in-class services to ensure successful completion of solar projects. As an innovative leader, Solar FlexRack continues to introduce mounting and tracking solutions that reduce solar project installation risks and costs. In 2016, the company introduced their newest Cast In Place (CIP) System for installing ballasted ground mounts that reduces the number of part components and shipping costs. That directly translates to reducing a solar project’s bottom line. Their most recent advancement is the TDP™ Turnkey Tracker, a combination of optimized tracker technology and full suite of services and support for the commercial and utility-scale markets. The Turnkey Tracker offers the lowest total cost solution by including full design, installation, commissioning and support services bundled in one contract. This tracker solution, with all the critical associated services, is invaluable in reducing solar project risks. Solar FlexRack is a solar leader because they are committed to customer satisfaction. They take pride in the in-depth knowledge and superior capabilities of their team. They dig deep to deliver the best products and services possible for their customers. The scope of technical expertise and level of customer support offered by Solar FlexRack is world-class.
Solar FlexRack A Division of Northern States Metals 3207 INNOVATION PLACE YOUNGSTOWN, OH 44509 SOLARFLEXRACK.COM
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
Sollega Inc, is a leading solar PV racking manufacturer specializing in ballasted commercial flat-roof and ground mount racking solutions since 2009. As the first company to introduce polymers to the PV racking industry in North America, we pride our selves on innovation. Our mission is to provide the easiest to install and most cost effective solar PV mounting solutions available. Our goal is to enable the installation of solar PV on every suitable flat surface in the world.
With the introduction of the FastRack510 (FR510), Sollega continues to improve the first truly universal one-piece ballasted mounting systems for framed PV modules. As with all Sollega mounting systems, the FR510 is lightweight and stackable, ships efficiently, and is quick and easy to stage and install. FR510’s arrive on site ready to install with no assembly required. All module attachments are top-down and require one size tool. FR10’s are injection molded in California from Ultramid–an advanced glass reinforced nylon developed in partnership with BASF, the world leader inpolymers. Ultramid is engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions and has a 25 year warranty. The FR510 is able to mount framed and frameless modules at 5° or 10°. Built in reference tabs ensure perfectly aligned arrays easily, while improving installation time and ease. The ability to attach rail internally, provides for increased load sharing, and, for hybrid systems, flexibility in mechanical anchor installation. 500 kW fits in a 40’ shipping container!
Sollega Inc. 2480 Mission Street, Suite 107 B San Francisco, CA 94110 (855) 725-RACK www.sollega.com
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Sollega designs and manufactures mounting systems for both flat roof and ground mount PV. We offer full engineering support services with every project, including layouts, ballast and optional anchor plans. In additiona we provide detailed calculations, with optional PE wetstamps for all 50 states as well as Caribbean. We have atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel testing, providing calculations compatible with all current ASCE 7-10 requirements. Sollega provides an industry leading 25-year warranty. We provide free quoting services.
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[ L E A D E R S H I P I N S O L A R EN ER G Y]
SunModo, meaning “the way of the sun,” is a private U.S. company focused on innovative racking and mounting solutions for professional installers in the fast-growing solar industry. We are energized every day by a desire to make solar installation easier, more reliable and more affordable. Our commitment to innovation can be seen across our entire product line, which includes 15 industry-shaping patents.
RACKING PARTNER OF PROFESSIONAL INSTALLERS
SunModo Corp. 14800 NE 65th Street Vancouver, Washington 98682 Tel: +1 (360) 844-0048 Fax: +1 (503) 863-3878 Email: info@sunmodo.com www.sunmodo.com
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SunModo works with professional installers around the world who need a full range of innovative solar racking and mounting solutions. We are energized every day by a desire to make solar installation easier, more reliable and more affordable. What sets us apart: We respect the installer. We think of our business as getting you on and off the roof or job site quickly with innovative reliable racking solutions that perform flawlessly for years and years with no callbacks. Our full range of products include easy-to-use flagship EZ Roof Mounts and elevated EZ SunBeam system that spans over obstacles to take full advantage of roof space. We back our commitment with industryleading warranties. This causes us to listen carefully. To develop and deliver innovative solutions. To operate as your back office when planning and installing solar PV systems. Together, let’s harness the sun to power our world.
Voting for this company will identify it as a leader in the solar power industry.
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Established in 1949, The Ryan Company, Inc. (Ryan) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR). We specialize in providing single service or turn-key EPC construction for PV solar, wind, and renewables, as well as industry leading electrical infrastructure, battery energy storage systems and large scale public sector construction services. The Ryan Company has completed hundreds of electrical utility projects in the past 60+ years throughout the United States and the Caribbean. The Ryan Company consolidated with a sister company, Quanta Power Generation to expand our
Energy. Delivered.
renewable capabilities.
The Ryan Company is an industry leader with the skills to adapt with the changing industry. We have been in business since 1949, having started out as electrical contractors and now developing into a larger company with full EPC capabilities. This gives us an advantage because 60% of projects are electrical work. Also, The Ryan Company has continued to keep its core team solid and consistent, while other company experience high turn around. Ryan’s parent company, Quanta Services, Inc., has been active for more than a decade in power generation and distribution, as well as renewable energy projects including solar, wind and ethanol/alternative fuels. Quanta is a $7.85 billion publicly traded company with national coverage and to the ability to effectively deliver large-scale projects. As a subsidiary of Quanta Services, Inc. we can meet the demands of any project by coordinating enormous resources of people, equipment, experience and financial strength for a project. No other company can assemble such a capable and integrated team.
Safety Leadership
The Ryan Company, Inc.
At the Ryan Company, safety is not just a philosophy–it is our core value. Our company motto is “Everyone goes home safe.” Our duty is to complete each and every project without incident or injury. Ryan’s management team creates a culture in which all employees have the opportunity and duty to take ownership for their safety and the safety of their coworkers. Our goal is a workforce that is focused on safety 24/7, at home and at work.
5445 DTC Parkway Suite 1200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 330.459.8300 www.ryancompany.net
Our primary goal is to achieve best-in-class safety performance every day, guided by these five core safety principles: 1. Safety is fundamental to everything we do
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2. A safe workplace is everybody’s responsibility, and safe behavior is a condition of employment
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3. Individuals are first accountable for their own safety, and then for the safety of others 4. Investigation and communication of incidents and near misses is necessary for driving improvement 5. Facts, data, processes and systems are critical for continuous improvement and to create best practices
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Recognized for our excellence in product development, Unirac develops progressive residential, commercial and utility scale mounting solutions tailored for performance. Our high quality, competitively priced products are enhanced by responsive customer support, integrated technology solutions, robust engineering services,
Innovative Solutions for PV Racking Unirac, Inc., is a leading racking manufacturer in the solar industry with an agile product development process that has produced 13 product enhancement launches since 2013. Our collaborative process is fostered through partnerships with industry leading manufacturers and refined through the voice of the installer. We provide cutting-edge digital design tools and industry-best customer support delivering value from beginning to end for your solar project.
certified quality, and supply chain excellence. SUNFRAME MICRORAIL (SFM) leads the railfree movement empowering installers to deliver systems with superior performance & aesthetics. Key innovative features include structural front Trimrail, post-install height adjustment, single module access, and single tool installation.
With over 15 years of customer service, Unirac is fast approaching 5GW of experience with more than 500,000 installations worth of knowledge. Partnering with Unirac leverages experience that makes a difference.
ROOFMOUNT | RM10 with 10 degree tilt consists of only two major components; minimizing preparation work and assembly time with single tool installation. ROOFMOUNT | RM5 provides unsurpassed adaptability with 5 degree tilt. Row spacing options of 7.5” or 11” give you the ability to maximize project energy production. ROOFMOUNT | RMDT (Dual Tilt) maximizes energy density with 8 degree dual tilt, allowing up to 33% more modules on the roof to maximize profitability at every step. SOLARMOUNT now features a Superior Aesthetics Package, which includes Front Trim and End Caps. Refine system layouts with standard and light rail options and get off the roof faster with pre-assembled parts and optimized components.
Unirac, Inc. 1411 Broadway Boulevard NE Albuquerque, NM 87102-1545 USA Telephone: 505.242.6411 Fax: 505.242.6412 unirac.com
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U-BUILDER ONLINE DESIGN TOOL helps you grow and scale your project quoting capabilities. Google Maps with enhanced zoom capabilities create a seamless process to design a project and produce a bill of materials with site-specific engineering documentation.
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Yaskawa – Solectria Solar, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yaskawa America, Inc., is the #1 commercial inverter manufacturer in the U.S. according to Greentech Media Research. Solectria’s products include 3.8 to 750 kW inverters, string combiners and web-based monitoring for all size solar systems. Solectria is backed by over 100 years of power electronics and inverter experience. All of Solectria’s three-phase Yaskawa – Solectria Solar (Solectria) is the #1 commercial inverter manufacturer in the U.S. according to Greentech Media. Solectria’s parent company, Yaskawa Electric Corporation, a $4 billion company, has been in the power electronics and inverter industries for over 100 years and is one of the most established and well-known inverter manufacturers in the world. Solectria continues to be at the forefront of the solar market in product introductions, innovations and successes.
central inverters are made in the USA. PV System owners, developers and EPCs rely on the high performance, reliability and bankability of Yaskawa – Solectria Solar.
Solectria has always focused on SIMPLIFYING SOLAR by focusing on quality, customer needs, increasing system reliability, serviceability and reducing total installed cost and labor at PV job sites. Its inverters boast the highest peak and CEC efficiencies in the industry and are customizable making designing and installing simplier.
Solectria inverters integrate some of the most advanced inverter technologies and offer advanced grid control features demonstrated by research partnerships with EPRI and the DOE. Solectria also offers the most comprehensive product suite available today, with inverters ranging from 3.8kW through 750kW and multi-megawatt solutions such as its Megawatt Solar Stations with integrated medium voltage transformers and the Decentralized MW Solution. All of Solectria’s three-phase central inverters are MADE IN THE USA.
Yaskawa - Solectria Solar 360 Merrimack Street Lawrence, MA 01843 tel: (978) 683-9700 www.solectria.com
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Join your colleagues for the most valuable Northeast U.S. solar event Solar Power Northeast, formerly known as PV America, will showcase 50+ companies in a SOLD OUT exhibit hall. Over 1,300 attendees come to network and grow their business in the region, and learn from in-depth education sessions presented by vetted solar professionals. The session tracks focus on business opportunities, and policy and regulation updates in the Northeastern U.S. solar market.
NORTHEAST
FEBRUARY 13-14, 2017 BOSTON, MA www.events.solar/northeast/
POWERED BY
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[AD INDEX]
APsystems........................................................ 54 Aurora Bearing Company............................. 55 Axitec Spolar USA........................................... 56 Baja Construction.......................................... 57 Chint Power Systems.................................... 58 DPW Solar Mounting Solutions................... 59 EcoFasten Solar..............................................60 Ecolibrium Solar............................................. 61 Flex-Core......................................................... 62 Fronius USA LLC............................................. 63 GameChange Solar LLC...............................64 GroWatt............................................................ 65 HiQ Solar..........................................................66 IXYS Corp......................................................... 67 Kaco new energy...........................................68 Kipp & Zonen...................................................69 MageRack........................................................ 70 Mounting Systems, Inc...................................71 Panasonic Eco Solutions NA........................ 72 Pika Energy...................................................... 73 RBI Solar Inc.................................................... 74 Renusol............................................................. 75 Roof Tech, Inc................................................. 76 S-5!.................................................................... 77 SMA America................................................... 78 SolarEdge Technologies, Inc....................... 79 SolarRoofHook...............................................80 Solar FlexRack................................................. 81 Sollega.............................................................. 82 Sunmodo......................................................... 83 The Ryan Company.......................................84 Unirac, Inc........................................................ 85 Yaskawa Solectria Renewables....................86
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[ L E A D E R SH IP IN SO LAR EN E R G Y ]
APsystems.......................................................... 5 Aurora Bearing Company............................... 2 Axitec Solar USA............................................. 29 Chint Power System.....................................IFC DPW Solar........................................................ 16 EcoFasten Solar...............................................13 Ecolibrium Solar..............................................12 Flex-Core........................................................... 2 Fronius USA LLC..............................................15 GameChange Solar LLC................................. 3 GroWatt.............................................................. 8 InterSolar NA...................................................49 IXYS Corp......................................................... 28 Kaco new energy............................................21 Kipp & Zonen................................................... 39 MageRack........................................................ 18 Mounting Systems, Inc.................................. 37 Panasonic Eco Solutions NA........................ 23 Pika Energy.........................................................7 RBI Solar/Renusol........................................... 19 Roof Tech, Inc..................................................31 S-5!.................................................................... 34 Snake Tray........................................................ 33 Solar Connections International................. 32 Solar Power International............................. 87 SolarEdge Technologies, Inc..................... IBC Solar FlexRack................................................. 22 SolarRoofHook............................................... 27 SOMO............................................................... 42 The Ryan Company........................................17 Unirac, Inc...........................................................1 Varta.................................................................. 43 Yaskawa Solectria Renewables................... BC
SALES Jim Powers 312.925.7793 jpowers@wtwhmedia.com @jpowers_media David Geltman 516.510.6514 dgeltman@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_david Neel Gleason 312.882.9867 ngleason@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_ngleason Tom Lazar 408.701.7944 wtlazar@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_Tom Jessica East 330.319.1253 jeast@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_MsMedia Michelle Flando 440.381.9110 mflando@wtwhmedia.com @mflando Garrett Cona 213.219.5663 gcona@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_gcona
LEADERSHIP TEAM VP of Sales Mike Emich 508.446.1823 memich@wtwhmedia.com @wtwh_memich Managing Director Scott McCafferty 310.279.3844 smccafferty@wtwhmedia.com @SMMcCafferty EVP Marshall Matheson 805.895.3609 mmatheson@wtwhmedia.com @mmatheson Associate Publisher Courtney Seel cseel@wtwhmedia.com 440.523.1685 @wtwh_CSeel
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Big changes. Small package. â&#x2030;¤7.6kW | <25.5lbs | 99% CEC weighted-efficiency
SolarEdge is breaking records in energy. Based on CEC inverter efficiency rating, January 2017
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