Solar Power World _ NOVEMBER 2014

Solar Thermal p.57

Insurance p. 62

Financing p.66

November 2014 www.solarpowerworldonline.com

Technology • Development • Installation

+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

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THE FIRST WORD Editorial Advisory Board Natalie Holtgrefe Solectria Renewables Jose Gomez Ingeteam Steve Hogan Spire Devon Cichoski SolarWorld Marcelo Gomez Unirac Justin Barnes North Carolina (State University) Solar Center Scott Wiater Standard Solar

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Your Pocket Book Product Guide A tradeshow is truly an exciting place. It’s a rush trying to conquer the show floor, racing against the clock, your head on a swivel as you attempt to see the abundance of industry offerings all gathered in one place. As the cliché goes: So much to do (and see), so little time.

Editors get somewhat lucky in this regard because we’re able to spend a good portion of our time walking the show floor. We realize not everyone has this opportunity. Maybe you’re stuck on booth duty or can visit the show for only a short time. Maybe you’re not able to attend at all.

Not to worry, this issue is for the busy solar contractor (all of you). We present more than 100 of the most interesting and innovative technologies from the tradeshow floor.

Our guide is not all-inclusive, but it is a great place to start when selecting equipment for your upcoming projects.

Looking ahead to next year, we’ve also included coverage on important topics, such as insurance and financing, useful in setting your plans. Lastly, with so much industry focus on silicon solar technology, we didn’t want to end the year without giving solar hot water its fair share of coverage.

You’ll find a financing feature from Senior Editor Frank Andorka, focusing on how the industry can solve its small-commercial/residential funding deficit. Experts shed light on how installers can capture more funding from local and regional banks.

Associate Editor Steven Bushong produced a special section on solar hot water, starting with a Q&A on Steibel Eltron’s take on the state of the industry. Then Apricus’ CEO asks, “To what extent should manufactures help guarantee quality installations?” Finally, Solar Source offers key tips for successful solar hot water installations.

Insurance is also an important aspect of any solar business or project. But it can be confusing. Where do you begin when looking for solar insurance? What kind of insurance do you need? Sometimes the questions from your clients can also be tough to answer.

How do businesses, who decide to go solar, insure their projects? I posed these questions to insurance agencies offering solar coverage, as well as some solar contractors.

We bring you their answers in our special insurance feature.

I hope this issue provides you with the tools needed to make informed decisions that will benefit your solar projects and help your company reach its goals. SPW

Connect and discuss this and other solar issues with thousands of professionals online

@SolarKathieZ @SolarPowerWorld

Managing Editor Kathie Zipp kzipp@solarpowerworldonline.com

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[SOLAR WORKS]

Solar Works Around The United States

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Borrego Solar Systems and sPower have started work on a 9.1-MWdc array, which will supply energy to PSEGLI under the utility’s first Clean Solar Initiative Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) program. sPower inked a 20-year PPA with PSEGLI at a fixed rate of $0.22/kWh.

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Border Solar chose Roof Tech mounting for its multi-residence solar project near El Paso, Texas.

Non-Profit Receives Microinverters Half Moon Bay, Calif.

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Non-profit Everybody Solar says Enphase Energy has donated more than 100 microinverters and accessories to its Wildlife Associates project. The in-kind donation lowers the project cost and brings Everybody Solar closer to its goal of using solar to cut electricity costs at the animal sanctuary by 90%.

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College Cuts Costs With Ground Array Hopkinsville, Ky. Sunway Energy Solutions installed 200 MAGE Solar USA solar panels on five ground mounts at the University of Kentucky Extension Office. The project, which offsets 25% of the office’s energy need, can be monitored from a public kiosk and serves as a learning opportunity.

To see your project featured here, please send a media release and photo to sbushong@ solarpowerworldonline.com for consideration.

Largest Convention Center Installation Las Vegas, Nev.

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S&C Electric Company deployed six 25-kW PureWave Community Energy Storage (CES) systems at its headquarters. The 150-kW energy storage system provides fast-response frequency regulation for the PJM market. Ancillary grid services, such as frequency regulation, are crucial for maintaining the stability and reliability of the power system.

Sungrow Opens U.S. Headquarters Fremont, Calif.

The 7,500-sq.-ft. facility houses Sungrow USA’s sales, marketing, logistics, service technician training center, inventory and spare parts warehousing, as well as inverter testing. “We’ve seen our U.S. business pick up by several hundred percent in 2014,” says Mizhi Zhang, CEO of Sungrow North America.

S&C Demonstrates Fast Regulation Equipment Chicago, Ill.

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USDA Solar Farm Uses Nextronex Washington, D.C. Nextronex’s RAY-MAX distributed architecture inverter system and SolarWorld’s 315-watt panels will be used at the 1.5-MWdc solar farm at the United States Department of Agriculture’s George Washington Carver Center.

Amber Enterprises will construct the project in two phases, commissioning the first phase by December.

Eaton announced a contract with Sunora Energy Solutions to provide electrical distribution equipment for the 6.4-MWdc solar installation at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Convention Center. The MGM Resorts International and NRG Energy project is the largest rooftop solar array on a convention center to date.

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Installer Chooses Rail-Less Mounting El Paso, Texas Border Solar chose Roof Tech to supply rail-less mounting for a solar development on more than 100 singlefamily homes. The project will use the RT-[E] Mount, which is classified to UL 2703 and is ideal for composition roofs.

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EPC Builds Under FIT Program Riverhead, N.Y.

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School District Goes Solar North East, Md. Standard Solar announced the construction of a 2.5-MW PV system for Cecil County Public Schools. More than 7,500 solar panels will be installed in a ground mounted array. SunEdison will provide the financing via a power purchase agreement.

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Technology • Development • Installation

November 2014 • vol 4 no 6

Follow the whole team on twitter @SolarPowerWorld

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UNO 7.6kW / 8.6kW. The inverter that thinks it’s two inverters.

With more flexibility than any other string inverter on the market, UNO-7.6 and 8.6 is the only high power residential inverter with dual MPPT channels to support installations at multiple orientations – increasing the energy harvest from today’s diverse residential roofs. The UNO is built to last with low maintenance natural convection cooling, NEMA 4X enclosure rating, capability for remote firmware upgrade and optional WiFi monitoring to easily track the system performance. Designed with future utility requirements in mind, the UNO includes the California Rule 21 features: reactive power control, active power curtailment and customizable voltage and frequency trip settings.

The UNO-7.6 and 8.6 lets you offer your customers a lot more system for a lot less cost.

For more information please visit: www.abb.com/solarinverters

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November 2014 www.solarpowerworldonline.com

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C O N T E N TTechnology S

• Development • Installation N o v e m b e r

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09 10 D E PA R T M E N T S 01 The First Word

10 Top Products

Solar Power World’s Top Products issue is a great place to start when selecting equipment for your upcoming projects

57 Special Section: Solar Thermal

80

Solar Leadership Winners

Ad Index

About the Cover:

The state of the industry, if manufactures should help guarantee quality installations, and key tips for successful solar hot water.

09 Training 79

2014

F E AT U R E S

03 Solar Works 08 Marketing

PRODUCTS OF

Solar Power World editors present

62 Special Section: Insurance

some of the

What kind of insurance do you need? How do businesses, who decide to go solar, insure their projects? Find answers here.

most interesting and innovative

66 Special Section: Financing

technologies from

Experts shed light on how installers can capture more funding from local and regional banks.

this year’s show floors.

68 Inverter Insider

Solar Thermal p.57

Insurance p. 62

Considerations for inverters in landfill installations and unique inverter models that don’t fit the mold.

Financing p.66

November 2014 www.solarpowerworldonline.com

Technology • Development • Installation

72 Racking & Mounting

O&M tips for solar mounting systems on rooftops and the ground,

+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

75 Panel Points

2014

Points to consider when screening changes to a few key module subcomponents.

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YOUR PLAYING FIELD KEEPS CHANGING IT TAKES EXPERTISE TO STAY AHEAD IN RENEWABLE ENERGY. Get proactive insight, market-focused advice and guidance from a nationally recognized leader—insights that help developers, lenders and investors achieve their objectives in renewable energy. Find out what CohnReznick thinks at CohnReznick.com/re.

Forward Thinking Creates Results.

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cohnreznick.com/re CohnReznick is an independent member of Nexia International

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[MARKETING]

7 Tips For Writing A Solar Project Press Release Press releases are an essential marketing tool in any industry, and solar is no exception. Still, it can be easy to fall into the trap of going through the motions and churning out news without stopping to consider if you’re really engaging your audience—or attracting the attention of editors who will share your news, for that matter.

Whether your company is announcing an exciting project or releasing a new product, it’s important to convey complete information with enthusiasm.

Releases should be written with purpose and creativity. Here are seven tips to help you engage your audience and the people who will share your content.

By Nicole Loepp Nicole Loepp is a marketing coordinator at WTWH Media, the publisher of Solar Power World. For more marketing advice, visit marketing.wtwhmedia.com or follow Nicole on Twitter @WTWH_Nicole.

1.

bing photo that accurately portrays what the release is about and, when possible, a link to a video (preferably one with an embed code so it can be shared directly in a post) for more engaging content.

5.

Use your social media channels. Your job isn’t done once your press release is published. Promote your news on social media. Post the link, along with your eye-catching photo to attract more readers.

Since some sharers may choose to share through social media only, rather than posting on their own sites, it’s also important to make sure your release is available under the news section of your website as soon as a copy is distributed to editors and other outlets.

Understand your audience. Does your release appeal to you as a member of the solar industry?

Great content is content that people will want to read. This may mean writing in a less “salesy” manner.

For example, sometimes it’s more engaging to write about how a project will benefit the owner and mentioning all companies involved, rather than just your involvement in it. If you’re writing about a product, it may be more effective to begin with a problem your audience experiences, then explain how your product helps solve it. The deeper your understanding of your audience, the more you will find your work appreciated and shared.

Don’t forget your contact information. Editors and other sharers are busy people. They don’t have time to fish around for your information if they need a follow-up. Including a link to your company’s website and an email and phone number for additional information within your email and copy of the release is professional, courteous and could potentially result in more sales and editorial opportunities for your company. Including the email and phone number of your press contact under the news section of your site is also appreciated by editors looking for more information.

2.

7.

Focus your message. Great content is written in a concise, thoughtful manner. Readers often have short attention spans, so it’s important to convey your main message, or point, and capture the reader’s attention in the first paragraph. The remaining paragraphs should contain additional information in order of importance or interest. Using too many quotes, or quotes that are long and too “salesy,” can cause readers to lose attention.

3.

6.

Send .doc files. The days of mailed and faxed press releases are gone. Today’s press releases are shared online. For maximum audience exposure, make sure your content is as easy to share as copy, paste, post. Copying from PDFs can be difficult (those troublesome linebreaks!), but Word docs are easy to copy and paste into website posting platforms. Again, including a link to the release on your website is also useful in case the sharer wishes to distribute through social media. SPW

Provide access to more information. Even though your news should remain concise, providing links is an easy way to offer readers easy ways to learn more. One or two is plenty; too many links may make your release look “spamy.”

4.

Include multimedia. Graphics are absolutely essential when sharing a story. Not only are they more eye-catching than text, but they also provide the reader with a better understanding of your company’s capabilities. Include a colorful, attention-grab-

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WHAT DO YOU THINK? Connect and discuss this and other solar issues with thousands of professionals online

www.solarpowerworldonline.com

11/13/14 2:12 PM

[TRAINING]

The Macro View Of Micro-Grid Training As you’ve probably heard, micro-grids and the

By Laura Walters Special To Solar Power World Laura Walters is an IREC Certified PV Instructor. Walters has a decade of experience working in the solar industry and is currently a curriculum developer and instructor for Solar Energy International.

She has been doing international work with We Care Solar, which helps power health clinics in the developing world.

energy storage they incorporate are hot topics in the solar industry. The applications being explored range from bringing power to faraway villages where connecting to the local utility is too expensive; to alleviating utility loads by providing on-demand power through central battery banks; to delivering power to regions during grid-outages. Because the micro-grid market is growing fast and changing rapidly, standards are still being established, and proper training is increasingly important.

Micro-grid systems can include multiple forms of energy generation, which necessitate a higher level of training. Training is not only important to design and install properly functioning systems, but also to ensure the safety of workers. The solar industry often combines two of the most dangerous lines of work: roofing and electrical. When you add batteries, wind, hydro or generators into the mix, safety concerns diversify and multiply.

Training and safety can also save money and resources. Trial and error on the job can be costly, especially as system complexity increases. Proper training not only helps throughout a project’s design and specification stages, but leads to cost-effective installation decisions. The upfront cost of education can, and does, save money over time.

Micro-grid best practices are hard to generalize because they depend on system size and application. For example, micro-grids require implementation of special measures to protect maintenance personnel because they have multiple independent power sources. This varies from a grid-direct PV system that is engineered to shut down if the utility experiences a problem. Similarly, one of the biggest issues commonly voiced with micro-grids is the lack of customer education.

The complexities of transitioning from having no electricity or being utility connected is often hard to grasp for the customer and maintenance personnel. If they do not understand the limitations of the system, the project can be doomed from the start.

The best places to start with training are at SEI and other industry leading renewable energy training organizations, the same you would look to for PV, wind or micro-hydro training. Equipment manufacturer trainings, such as those offered by Homer Energy (www. homerenergy.com), offer an in-depth look at how everything fits together.

The solar industry is still learning how to get positive press and educate the public, as is evident by how potential shortcomings of solar are seemingly universally known by all.

Sharing of best practices and lessons learned are great ways to ensure quality installations of micro-grids and promote the benefits of this technology.

To learn more about SEI’s energy storage training sessions, visit www.solarenergy.org/ workshop-schedule. SPW

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Technology • Development • Installation

+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

The solar industry has continued to see strong growth in 2014.

Much of this expansion is fueled by innovative products that show increasingly improved reliability and performance. Better products are the basis for more efficient and profitable projects, which contribute to solar becoming a greater part of the U.S. energy mix.

After attending the industry’s biggest shows from San Francisco to Boston, the Solar Power World team brings a selection of these innovations

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to you in one special feature. Though this section is not all-inclusive, we’ve tried our best to feature the most interesting products we found on show floors this year. Browse through to find the best selections for your next solar project.

We’d like to thank PV America East, Intersolar and Solar Power International for providing a venue for the solar industry to share these innovative technologies.

www.solarpowerworldonline.com

11/13/14 5:25 PM

+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Generation Technologies p.12 Modules p.13

Andalay Solar Axitec Canadian Solar Centrosolar ET Solar Hanwha SolarOne Hanwha Q CELLS itek Energy JA Solar Jinko Solar Kyocera Solar MAGE SOLAR Motech Industries Recom ReneSola SolarWorld SunPower Trina Solar Upsolar America Vikram Solar Yingli Solar

Mounting Systems PanelClaw Renusol America SolarDock Sollega SunLink SunModo

Enphase Energy

Off-Grid and Others p. 43 American Electric Technologies CEC Great Wall Energy Ideal Power Converters KACO New Energy Magnum Energy OutBack Power Princeton Power Systems Schneider Electric Tigo Energy

+ top100 Thermal Collectors p.17 Apricus Stiebel Eltron Sunvelope Solar

Ground Mount p. 28

DPW Solar GameChange Racking HST Solar Patriot Solar Group PV Racking RBI Solar Schletter Solar FlexRack Solar SpeedRack

Carport and Canopies p. 30 Baja Construction Lumos Solar

PRODUCTS OF

Thin Film PV p. 18 First Solar Stion

Integrated Module p. 18 SolarBridge Technologies

Racking and Mounting p. 19 Sloped Roof p.20

Trackers p. 30

AllEarth Renewables Array Technologies Dunkermotor Exosun LINAK QBotix

Inverters p. 33 String p. 34

ABB Advanced Energy Chint Power Systems America Delta Products Fronius USA Ginlong (Ningbo) Technologies SolarEdge Sungrow

Balance of Systems p. 46 Components p. 47

Allied Moulded Products CG CITEL America Cone Drive Continental Control Systems EKO Instruments USA General Cable ILSCO Marathon Special Products Maxwell Technologies Megger MidNite Solar Moxa S&C Electric Company Schurter Socomec Tamura Corp.

Texas Instruments Ultrasolar Technology

2014

Storage p. 51 Crown Battery MK Battery Trojan Battery U.S. Battery VARTA Microbattery

Contents Dual Rack DynoRaxx EcoFasten Solar HatiCon Solar IronRidge Magerack Quick Mount PV Roof Tech S-5!

SnapNrack Solar Fastener Expert Solar Roof Hook.com Spice Solar SpiderRax Unirac Zilla

Flat Roof p. 24 Aerocompact Ecolibrium Solar

Central p. 38

Bonfiglioli USA Eaton Ingeteam Nextronex Parker Hannifin Power Electronics Santerno SMA America SolarMax USA Solectria Renewables TMEIC

Microinverters p. 42 APS America Darfon America Corp.

Enecsys

Monitoring p. 53

AlsoEnergy Campbell Scientific eGauge Locus Energy Meteocontrol Phoenix Contact Solar Data Systems Solmetric Synapse Wireless

Site Assessment p. 55 Kipp & Zonen Lufft Seaward Solar Vaisala 11 • 2014

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+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

GENERATION TECHNOLOGIES As 2015 approaches, panel manufacturers are working overtime to meet California’s strict new fire-safety standards.

The new regulations are mandatory on Jan. 1 and will specify which modules can be used with what other balance-of-systems components.

In addition, more panel manufacturers are integrating microinverters into their panels and,

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11 • 2014

in some cases, have even taken to manufacturing their own. As you look at the panels on the following pages, you’ll get a preview of the direction manufacturers are taking their products now and in the future.

www.solarpowerworldonline.com

11/13/14 5:44 PM

+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

TO P 100 + PR O D UCT S O F 2 0 14

Diamond Module

SILICON PANELS

Canadian Solar www.canadiansolar.com

AXIplus SE Black/ Monocrystalline Module

Canadian Solar’s groundbreaking Diamond module is an innovative addition to their product portfolio.

With heat-strengthened double

Axitec www.axitecsolar.us

glass, the Diamond module is 100% PID free, frameless, and reduces the need for module level grounding.

The all black module with SolarEdge is the sleek power-performer among the AXITEC solar modules. The combination gives major benefits to the plant owner, as well as the installer.

Andalay Plug & Play Technology

Designing For Success With ACPV ET Solar www.etsolar.com

Andalay Solar andalaysolar. com

With ET Solar’s ACPV Design Tool, configuring AC module

Andalay Solar’s plug

systems is easier than ever. A

& play technology

free, value-added service, the

consists of an AC

ACPV Design Tool helps installers maximize efficiency and ensure

solar panel with

customer satisfaction. Simply enter the required information, and

instant racking, grounding and wiring. The precise alignment resulting from the integrated racking and splice system enables electrical wiring to

the tool automatically generates the optimal bill of materials, as well as a layout, drawings and wiring plan within minutes.

be automated using plug & play connections that are formed as panels are mechanically interlocked.

Centrosolar E-Series

Centrosolar America www.centrosolaramerica.com

Built with industry-leading power tolerance, this photovoltaic module utilizes polycrystalline highefficiency silicon cells in an optimal configuration to generate higher power output per module. The module meets highest industry standards and resists adverse climates. These modules have been successfully tested for resistance to salt spray, ammonia and PID. The E-series photovoltaic module comes with a 90% (12-year) and 80% (25-year) of rated minimum peak power warranty and a 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials.

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+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

HSL 60S, 4 Busbar Poly Module

3rd Generation Module with Top Line Performance

Hanwha SolarOne www.hanwha-solarone. com

Hanwha Q CELLS www.q-cells.us

The S-series module uses automated

The Q.PRO BFR-G3 with black frame design

manufacturing and has 4 best-in-class

is reliable for all applications. This module

features: 4 busbar cell, weak light

generation has enhanced low light performance,

performance at 97%, improved TCOE

low temperature coefficient, proven high-output

at -0.41%, and slim frame of 32mm.

yield, and high operating reliability and durability.

Jinko Solar’s JKM315P-72

itek Energy HE Solar Module itek Energy www.itekenergy.com

JinkoSolar www.jinkosolar.com

The HE Solar Module by itek JinkoSolar’s UL-certified

Energy is high-quality and has

JKM315P-72 modules have a

high-performance. Each 270-

conversion efficiency of up to 16%

280 W module features 60 high

and a comprehensive 25-year

efficiency monocrystalline cells for

linear warranty. Jinko modules are

exceptional power density and a

designed for excellent performance

high-strength anodized aluminum

in real-world settings, maintaining strong performance in extreme

frame specifically designed for

weather, harsh environments and low light conditions.

microinverter applications.

The Kyocera Family Of Products Kyocera Solar www.kyocerasolar.com An industry pioneer with four decades of experience in the development of photovoltaic systems, Kyocera drives the market as a leading provider of best-in-class solar energy equipment.

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11/13/14 5:45 PM

TO P 100 + PR O D UCT S O F 2 0 14

MAGE SOLAR USA Premium-Quality DC Module

Amur Leopard Module Series RECOM www.recom.gr

MAGE SOLAR USA www.magesolarusa.com

RECOM’s high performance Amur Leopard module series is engineered for utility and large commercial projects. The 72 cell 300-W 1000-V poly module has one of the lowest temperature coefficient of -0.39%. This

With the all-

means higher yield in hot climates. The anti-reflective microstructured

new 60-cell

glass also make it suitable for applications at airports and railway stations.

245-255 Wp polycrystalline module MAGE SOLAR USA delivers the lowest cost of power for longer. All MAGE SOLAR USA modules feature an industryleading 30-year, 80% power guarantee and a 10-year product warranty.

Sirius Solar Panels Motech Americas www.motechsolar.com Sirius is a new technological advance from Motech with a peak conversion efficiency over 20.5%, and the capability to increase efficiency and value. It breaks the 20% efficiency barrier, thus making Sirius an important option for all professional involved in solar energy procurement and construction.

ReneSola America’s Residential Solar Bundle ReneSola www.renesola.com ReneSola’s bundled solar packages consist of modules, inverters and racking, making installing reliable solar systems fast and easy. The full line of products are available for financing through the company’s recently launched residential financing program.

JA Solar Percium, Mono-crystalline PV Module

JA Solar USA www.JASolar.com

JA Solar's high efficiency, Percium PV Cell/module averages over 20.4% mass production efficiency. Percium delivers excellent low-light performance, greater power production & revenue/module and reduced CAPEX.

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SunPower X-Series SPR-X21335-BLK Solar Panels

Sunmodule ProSeries XL Mono

SunPower us.sunpower.com

SolarWorld Americas www.solarworld.com

SunPower X-Series Solar Panels feature excellent performance

The Sunmodule XL 72-cell modules offers

and appearance. Built with SunPower Maxeon solar cells, with

high reliability. The use of monocrystalline

a solid copper foundation, these modules convert more light

high-performance solar cells delivers high

into electricity than any silicon solar panels on the market today.

module outputs compared to classic 60-

This means 70% more electricity in the same amount of space as

cell modules, provideing up to 30% more

typical solar panels. The all-back contact design of the Maxeon

performance, lowering system costs.

solar cell eliminates all metal grid lines from the front of the panel, providing a sleek Signature Black appearance.

Tariff-Free Modules

By Upsolar America Upsolar America www.upsolar.com/usa Upsolar’s UP-M310P polycrystalline module is ideal for ground mount applications and is UL certified for a maximum system voltage of 1,000V.

Duo-Max: Revolutionary Frameless Design Trina Solar www.trinasolar.com

This 72-cell module offers increased resistance to wind load and is available free-of-tariffs for U.S. customers.

Tier-1, Tariff-Free 60-Cell 250 Poly From India

Trina Solar's duo-max PDG5, is a dual rated (UL & IEC) frameless module that does not require grounding. PDG5 comprises two

Vikram Solar vikramsolar.com

layers of 2.5mm heat-strengthened glass.

By replacing the plastic backsheet with heat-strengthened glass, PDG5 provides the highest UL safety rating, anti-PID,

The VSP.60.250.A3 is Vikram Solar’s 60-

reduces micro-cracking, module

cell workhorse module for residential

warping, UV aging and corrosion from

and commercial rooftop applications,

sand, acid, alkali and salt mist.

with a PTC rating exceeding 93%.

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YGE 60 Cell Series: Proven Performance And Versatility Yingli Solar www.yinglisolar.com Yingli’s most popular product line, the YGE 60 Cell Series, is ideal for a broad range of applications. Proven to perform in tens of thousands of projects across the Americas, it is now available with black backsheets and black frames.

SOLAR THERMAL AP-30 Evacuated Tube Solar Collector Apricus Apricus.com The AP-30 uses advanced technology to efficiently and reliably convert the sun’s rays into usable thermal energy. The AP-30 is capable of producing nearly 2kW of power, even in cold climates.

Stiebel Eltron SOL 27 Premium Stiebel Eltron www.stiebeleltron-usa.com

Innovative, High-Efficiency Water Heating Sunvelope Solar www.sunvelope.com Sunvelope solar thermal energy collectors achieve low cost and high efficiency water heating.

Innovative and elegant, the

Among the top performing solar thermal collectors measured

stainless steel systems self-manage

by the SRCC, the Stiebel Eltron SOL 27 Premium is made in the

temperature extremes for less

U.S. Its low profile makes it visually less obtrusive and able to

expensive and more reliable energy

accommodate a variety of architectural and engineering needs.

collection.

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Stion Elevation 4 Frameless Solar Module

THIN-FILM

Stion www.stion.com The Elevation 4 module uses Stion’s proprietary Circuit Protection System (CPS) which provides significantly improved moisture resistance and lifetime durability over crystalline silicon modules.

This dual glasss frameless module does not require grounding.

Stion modules provide exceptional energy yield due to an antireflective coated glass and industry leading temperature coefficient of -0.26%/oC.

First Solar Series 4 and Series 4A PV Modules First Solar www.firstsolar.com The First Solar Series 4 and Series 4A PV Modules incorporate its latest advances in conversion efficiency.

Generating up to 8% more energy than competing modules with the same power rating, these modules deliver superior performance and reliability. Series 4A modules are constructed identically to Series 4 modules and add anti-reflective coated glass to Series 4 modules.

INTEGRATED MODULES

More Energy, More Flexibility, Less Cost SolarBridge Technologies www.trueacsolar.com TRUEAC modules are a complete AC module available direct from SolarBridge Technologies. SolarBridge says its TRUEAC modules deliver up to 25% more energy, provide rooftop flexibility and offer 30% lower lifetime cost, all backed by an end-to-end, 25-year warranty and customer service.

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+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

RACKING & MOUNTING Industry attention on soft costs has increased during the last year, but that doesn’t mean the racking and mounting industry can slow down innovation of more robust, easier to install and lower-cost solar mounting. In fact, as new fire regulations take hold in California and across the country, re-tested and tweaked systems are likely to get more expensive, meaning innovation is critical. Rail-less approaches, which remove long spans of aluminum from the installation process, are popping up in the sloped roof market.

On flat roofs, integrated approaches–mounting companies partnering with inverter companies, for example–are aiming to reduce costs. As for ground mounts, the name of the game is installation simplicity. Labor is a significant cost, and large ground mount projects can rack up the hours. Herein are manufacturers’ best racking and mounting products of the year, many of which were just unveiled at Solar Power International in Las Vegas.

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DynoRaxx Evolution PR 2.0

SLOPED ROOF Dual Rack Flash L-Kit

Dual Rack www.

DualRack.net

DynoRaxx www. dynoraxx.com With DynoRaxx Evolution PR 2.0, shipping

A Fast, Easy Install EcoFasten Solar www.ecofastensolar.com

The Dual Rack Flash L-Kit comes in 12” x 12”

is no longer an issue. Packaging for

and 9” x 12.5” sizes and is designed to be used

a 7-kW system using the DynoRaxx

A single fastener, IAPMO certification

on composition and asphalt shingle roofs. Roof

Evolution PR 2.0 is no larger than a shoe

and straight-forward design make

flashing slides quickly into place with no need

box. The system consists of only two

EcoFasten Solar’s mounting the choice

to modify the single to force a fit. Just a simple,

components. The majority of the system

for top installers in the U.S. Patented

watertight seal. All stainless steel hardware is

is installed safely on the ground. Module

watertight technology will protect

included for fast, single-bolt installation. Comes

leveling makes the cleanest array out of

the integrity of a roof without voiding

with a 10-year limited product warranty.

the waviest roofs.

roofing manufacturer’s warranties.

THE ANSWER TO ALL YOUR SOLAR MOUNTING NEEDS. FAST. SAFE. AFFORDABLE.

zillarac.com 855.670.1212 Follow us:

Zilla® is a registered trademark of Zilla Corporation.

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HatiBond Integrated Bonding Splice Is UL 467 Listed HatiCon Solar www.haticonsolar.com This innovative new splice installs instantly with no tools, cutting, drilling or hardware. It

IronRidge XR Rail Family

creates a structural and electrically bonded connection; no bonding lugs or copper

IronRidge www.ironridge.com

wired required. This new technology improves the speed

The XR Rail Family offers the strength of IronRidge’s curved rail in three

and ease of PV installations.

P118 8.5 x 4.75 HORIZONTAL EL ad.pdf

targeted sizes: XR10, XR100 and XR1000. Each size supports specific 1

4/18/14

8:01 AM

design loads, while reducing material costs by as much as 15 to 20%.

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1-800-683-5723 • www.trimlok.com 11 • 2014

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Mounting System With Integrated Bonding Magerack www.magerack.com The Magerack Solar Mounting System is a UL 2703 listed, sloped-roof mounting system with integrated bonding. It is reliable with a 20-year warranty, and is easy to install with a patented L-foot with flashing and height-adjustable tile hook with flashing, as well as cost-effective.

The No-Compromise Rail-Free Mounting System Quick Mount PV www.quickmountpv.com Quick Rack is a simple, cost-effective rail-free solar mounting system that works with standard module frames. The system is engineered to be robust and structurally sound and features Quick Mount PV’s waterproofing technology.

Mount On Any Metal Roof S-5! www.s-5.com S-5! offers a line of clamps that fit almost every metal roof profile and rail on the market.

The S-5-PV Kit provides an easy, cost-effective direct attached solar installation that is ETL-1703 and UL- 2703 listed. In early 2013, S-5! released EdgeGrab, designed

Rail-Less Mount With Integrated Flashing And Electrical Bonding

to further simplify S-5-PV Kit end-condition installations.

Roof Tech www.roof-tech.us RT-[E] MOUNT is a rail-Less PV mounting system that adapts to the roof decking or rafter installation in full compliance with IBC, IRC codes and UL 2703. Includes wire management and integrated flashing. PE structural reports are available.

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SnapNrack Residential Roof Mount Series 100 UL SnapNrack www.SnapNrack.com Series 100 UL features integrated bonding pins, eliminating additional bonding hardware. The fully integrated system leads

The All-Tile Roof Mount Solution SolarRoofHook.com www.solarroofhook.com The All-Tile Roof Mount works on both flat and curved tile roofs. The base is adjustable at three leverage points, and has numerous mounting screw holes to give added versatility. The hook has a 5.5mm thickness for strength and flashing is available. Part # STRHADJ9038.

to an overall reduction in material costs and reduction in labor. The system is also Class A Fire Rated for Type 1 Modules.

Black Widow And Red Widow SPIDER-RAX SPIDERRAX.COM Black Widow and Red Widow are rail-less and studless mounting systems designed to reduce material cost and labor. Spider-Rax mounting systems have integrated mid and end clamps included that fit all major panel manufacturers. This allows for fast installation without compromising structural integrity.

Spice Solar Modules And Mounting Components Spice Solar www.spicesolar.com

Get Off The Roof Faster Unirac www.unirac.com New SOLARMOUNT

Spice Solar modules with built-in racking are

enhancements

cheaper than traditional racking and twice as fast

include integrated

to install. Spice Solar manufacturers mounting

bonding to get installers off the roof

components that work on all residential roof types.

faster than ever before. Pre-assembled and optimized components reduce installation steps and labor time. Lose the copper and lugs with integrated grounding powered by Enphase Energy, eliminating the ground wire from your array.

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New Zilla Phantom XL System Zilla Corporation www.zillarac.com

Fastening For Waterproof Installations Solar Fastener Expert www.solarfastenerexpert. com

The Zilla Phantom XL is a fully flashed, waterproof, selfgrounded flush mount system that attaches to sheathing or structure. Combining the low-profile,

The EJOT Solar Flashing system for waterproof installations allows

watertight sealing of the Zilla Double Stud

installations including PV and thermal racking to securely anchor

XL Flashing with innovative Phantom design, this compact

to existing or new roofs. The system includes anodized aluminum

solution provides ease in transport, superior strength and

flashing with preassembled sealing features and EJOT Solar Fastening

maximum flexibility.

with nuts, washers and a preassembled gasket.

EcoFoot2+ From Ecolibrium Solar

FLAT ROOF

Ecolibrium Solar www.ecolibriumsolar.com

Tested And Certified Solution

EcoFoot2+ is a next-generation flat-roof racking and mounting solution featuring fast installation (13.7 panels per

Aerocompact www.aerocompact.com

man/hour) and a Class-A Fire Rating in

Aeocompact is available in 5, 10 and 15-degree tilts, as well as

California for

a 10-degree tilt in east-west orientation. The system is wind

Type-1 and

tunnel tested up to 150 mph and ETL to UL 2703 certified, with

Type-3 panels.

fast installation speeds.

Polar Bear III Flat Roof System PanelClaw www.panelclaw.com Polar Bear III is a cost-competitive system with a broad application backed by a 100% permitting success rate and 25-year warranty. The system components and installation are designed together to offer a lower total installed cost and excellent service experience. Polar Bear III is system-level fire classified with a Class A rating.

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Optimal Performance For Mid And Lower Latitudes Mounting Systems www.mounting-systems.com

Renusol EW The Lambda Light EW+ is a unique,

Renusol America www.renusolamerica.com

East-West oriented system that provides numerous performance and gridintegration advantages, especially for

The Renusol EW is a ballasted east-west facing mounting

array sites in mid and lower latitude

system for flat roofs that allows for greater array density

regions. Extensive component

and lower ballast weights. No long rails or wind deflectors

preassembly contributes to the product’s

are needed. Universal clamps hold the modules in place.

installation speed and cost-effectiveness.

MOMMY, DO WE HAVE FREE HOT WATER? Sun Bandit® is a revolutionary new hybrid energy system that makes choosing, installing and enjoying a solar water heating system more practical and affordable than ever before. This innovative new patent pending technology creates a cleaner, quieter, more comfortable living environment that is a great choice for homeowners and an even better choice for your business.

Visit sunbandit.us to learn more.

SunBandit® is a registered trademark of Next Generation Energy® © 2013 Next Generation Energy® All rights reserved

Solar Hybrid Energy Systems • Patent(s) Pending

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Putting Solar Safety First SolarDock www.solardock.com Don’t settle for racks that squeak by with the bare minimum of product testing. SolarDock 2 boasts mechanical, electrical and fire safety features. The system is TUV Rheinland certified to UL 2703.

FastRack FR510 Ballasted Flat Roof Racking Sollega www.Sollega.com The new FR510 ballasted hybrid low-pitch PV mounting system is injection molded using Ultramid Polymers. Its modular, stackable, universal design mounts all framed modules in both landscape and portrait. All top mount hardware, integrated grounding, integrated mechanical attachment option and requires no assembly.

SINGLE SOURCE SOLAR MOUNTING SYSTEMS

.

DESIGN

.ENGINEERING

.MANUFACTURING

.INSTALLATION

CONTACT US RBI Solar, Inc. | 5513 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45217 | 513.242.2051 | info@rbisolar.com

US_JapanAD_2014.indd 1

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30% Lower Cost Than Legacy Systems SunLink www.sunlink. com Class A fire-

Elevated Racking, Maximum Roof Space SunModo www.sunmodo.com

rated PrecisionModular RMS is assembled, laid out and installed module-by-module to maximize layout

The Sunbeam system is a robust and versatile flat roof system that

flexibility, dramatically reduce costs through inventory and

can also be integrated with steel supports for ground mounted

facilitate on-roof changes. Available for 60 and 72-cell

solutions. By spanning over obstacles, the system maximizes roof

modules. Features a 10-degree tilt.

space. It’s lightweight for structural loads, and strong for high costal winds. It’s made of all-aluminum to resist coastal salt air corrosion.

Your Protection in

Solar Power

Allied Moulded for your Enclosure Needs ULTRAGUARD ® resists yellowing, changes in gloss and discoloration.*

With fiberglass-reinforced enclosures from Allied Moulded Products, you’ll get outstanding protection from the elements even while you are harnessing their power.

Made with our exclusive ULTRAGUARD® formulation that withstands the harshest extremes in temperature and UV radiation—it’s the right solution in any environment.

Now backed by the industry’s most comprehensive warranty, other alternatives simply don’t compare.

Allied Moulded’s line of polycarbonate enclosures is expanding to include three new sizes – 8" x 8" x 4", 16" x 14" x 8", and 18" x 16" x 10". Our complete line of nonmetallic enclosures and accessories are second to none.

To learn more, visit alliedmoulded.com. *Results confirmed by independent lab tests of leading enclosure manufacturers

222 North Union Street • Bryan, Ohio 43506 Ph: 800-722-2679 • Fx: 800-237-7269 © 2014 Allied Moulded Products, Inc.

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Pour-in-Place Ballasted Ground System

GROUND MOUNT

GameChange Racking www.gamechangeracking.com GC Pour-in-Place ballasted ground mount is a self-leveling system for landfill and rocky sites that use concrete pouring forms, substantially reducing install time and cost.

• Available in both 1 and 2 panels up in portrait

Reliable Large-Scale Ground Mount

• ETL / UL 2703 tested • Bankability technical assessment by Black & Veatch • Wind tunnel tested by CPP

DPW Solar dpwsolar.com The Power Peak ground mount system provides a reliable solution for utility-scale applications. Fewer parts, lightweight components and site-optimized design combine for a lower cost and faster installation.

NextGeneration Fixed PV Mounting Structures

FlexRack Series G3L

HST Solar www.hstsolar.com

Solar FlexRack www.solarflexrack.com

HRack uses configurable-components manufacturing to optimize The FlexRack Series G3L offers ease of installation.

material usage. It comes with several foundation options including

The system ships in a pre-assembled folded position

cast-on-site ballast and pile-driven. Listed to UL2703, HRack uses

and is simply unfolded and set into place.

multi-dimensional optimization and automation to cut costs 15% to 40% while improving energy yield by 2 to 8%.

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Easy Installation, Clamp-Free Ground Racking PV Racking www.pvracking.us A unique rail holds modules securely

Delta Series Ballasted Ground Mount Patriot Solar Group patriotsolargroup.com

with a “hold down area” 10 times that of conventional clamps. Modules simply slide into place. PV Racking’s clamp-free ground racking system allows for quicker installation time and significant labor savings.

FS Uno Ground Mount System Schletter www.schletter.us Meeting production demands is easy

With no excavation needed, the

with Schletter’s FS Uno-100 ground

Ballasted Ground Mount is ideal for

mount system. Developed with 100%

large scale and utility installations, with

galvanized steel, this single post system

its ability to adjust post height and tilt

meets or exceeds applicable IBC, ASCE

on-site. The Delta Series is a simple,

and UL Standards and accommodates

functional ballasted ground mount.

east-west module tables.

Single Source Racking Solution RBI Solar www.rbisolar.com Custom designed and engineered to site specific conditions, RBI ground mount racking is ETL classified to UL 2703. With inhouse engineering and project management capabilities, RBI takes a single source responsibility for a solar project that involves structural design, engineering, manufacturing and installation.

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Solar GroundMount

TRACKERS

Solar SpeedRack www.SolarSpeedRack.com

Tracker Arrives Faster, Cheaper

Solar GroundMount is an innovative shared rail ground mount system designed to reduce the cost, time and hardware used in the

AllEarth Renewables www.allearthrenewables. com

installation of solar systems. GroundMount has integrated grounding and wire management and fits PV panel sizes 30mm to 50mm.

The AllSun Tracker is a complete

CARPORTS & CANOPIES

A Solar Canopy With An Aesthetic Touch

grid-tied, dual-axis solar electric

Lumos Solar www.lumossolar.com

the ground-mounted solar tracker

Lumos SolarScapes are preengineered, fully configurable solar canopy structures that bridge the worlds of function and design. Optimized for the LSX

Trusted Name, Proven Solutions

Frameless Module System, Lumos

system that uses GPS technology to follow the sun, producing over 45% more energy than fixed rooftop systems. Made in the United States, system is designed for residential and commercial-scale installations.

Its simple, durable design and complete, self-contained system pallet for shipping simplifies costly procurement and installation time, allowing for easy free shipping directly to the installer or job site.

SolarScapes provide an aesthetic and architectural solution for shade and clean, renewable energy.

Baja Construction Co. www.bajacarports.com Specializing in light gauge, prefabricated, solar carport design, engineering, fabrication and installation, Baja Construction provides standard designs as well as innovative new product lines.

Baja’s “Turnkey” systems provide system developers, owners and operators a single point of purchase for complete system procurement to installation services.

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Advanced Tracking Solutions Dunkermotor www. dunkermotor. com Dunkermotor has redefined its Solar Tracker Motor (STM)

Revolutionized Design Array Technologies www.arraytechinc.com ATI’s flagship product, the DuraTrack HZ single-axis solar tracker, has recently evolved in order to further reduce installed cost, increase power density, accelerate installation and reduce maintenance requirements– enabling a highly competitive LCOE for solar projects at a time when the industry needs it most. The completely new DuraTrack HZ combines more than 20 years of product

portfolio to cater to the PV, CPV and CSP market segments more distinctly.

The company’s motion solutions for solar trackers get smarter and provide lower total cost of ownership thanks to all-in-one design. The STM products pack motor, gear, controller, fieldbus and optional integrated inclinometer in one completely sealed unit.

innovation with over 2 GW of proven reliability.

Low LifeCycle Cost Utility-Scale Tracker Exosun www.exosun.net Exotrack HZ is a horizontal single-axis tracker delivering

Linear Actuator For Solar Tracking LINAK U.S. www.linak-us.com

up to 25% more output than fixed-tilt systems. It offers the market’s fastest installation rate, low motor

The LA37 is the strongest electric linear actuator from LINAK, designed to

consumption and maintenance, as well as a unique

provide the movement to horizontal ground mount trackers. The actuator

centralized control and monitoring unit.

also features flexible electronics packages for easier integration.

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Robotic Tracking System QBotix www.qbotix.com The optimized dual-axis QBotix Robotic Tracking System (RTS) delivers improved yields of up to 45%, project cost savings of up to 20%, and increased installation flexibility for largescale solar power plants.

Reduce Uncertainty With Bankable Solar Data Why Measure?

Site-specific solar measurement stations provide context to correct long-term satellite derived irradiance data. This creates finance-grade data for your solar development project.

On-site SRA Campaign Short-term (12 mos.), Low uncertainty (~2-5% when properly conducted)

Satellite Derived Irradiance Data Long-term context, Higher uncertainty (~10%)

Lowest resource-related risk, increase in P90 Best financial terms for your project

solar | Resource Assessment Renewable NRG Systems

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|

Learn more. rnrgsystems.com/sra

Hinesburg, Vermont 05461 | USA 802.482.2255 | renewableNRGsystems.com

SOLAR POWER WORLD

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INVERTERS NEC 2014 has not yet been widely implemented, but inverter manufacturers are already working on meeting requirements for arc-fault drotection and rapid shutdown. Not only are they adapting to new rules, but manufacturers are innovating such as with new three-phase string inverters for commercial market. The

lines between string, central, off-grid and microinverters are starting to blur as manufactures develop new designs that incorporate features of multiples inverter types. Some of the designs here are indicative of where we may see more inverters going next year and beyond.

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STRING Horizontally Mounted String Inverter Advanced Energy www.advanced-energy.com The Advanced Energy (AE) horizontally mounted string inverter enables solar installers, site designers and project developers to conserve space and increase project yield using an innovative technique to install the AE 3TL inverter in a 0° to 30° orientation.

A Solution For Tricky Roofs ABB www.abb.com/solarinverters No roof is created equally. The 7.6, 8.6-kW ABB UNO transformerless smart inverters offer optimal energy production, upcoming grid-interactive requirements and installation flexibility (each MPPT channel can be loaded up to 71% of total rated power). This inverter offers dual MPPT, enabling maximum energy production for rooftop applications facing multiple angles and varying string lengths.

A Lightweight But Durable Transformerless Inverter

Accelerating Three-Phase In Commercial And Small Utility

Delta Products Corporation www.delta-americas.com

CPS America (Chint Power) www.chintpower.com/na

The transformerless Solivia string CPS America’s 23 and 28-kW string inverters feature dual-

inverter features a wide operating

MPPT and 98% CEC efficiency listings (peak efficiency is

voltage range (140 ~ 550 V) and

98.6%). This medium power series of grid-tied, transformerless

temperature range (-13 ~ 158°F (-25 ~ 70°C) ), high 97.5% CEC

inverters help to accelerate the use of 1000Vdc and three-

efficiency and integrated AFCI. It is NEMA 4 rated, has convection

phase commercial and small ground-mount utility applications.

cooling, dual MPPT and is lightweight.

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MORE POWER...

WITH THE SUNNY TRIPOWER TL-US

With SMA’s proprietary OptiTrac Global Peak MPP tracking, partial shade and challenging rooftops are no longer a concern. Combine that with the Sunny Tripower’s class-leading efficiency and proven reliability, and maximize your system’s energy production.

Learn more at SMA-America.com

SUNNY TRIPOWER 12000TL-US / 15000TL-US / 20000TL-US / 24000TL-US

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A Field-Serviceable String Inverter

A Mini Model Fulfills Many Needs

Fronius USA www.fronius-usa.com

Ginlong (Ningbo) Technologies www.ginlong-usa.com

The transformerless Symo (10 to 24 kW) is a compact three-phase inverter for commercial applications. The inverter

The Solis-Mini (700 to 2,000 W) is a single-phase

features Wi-Fi, high system voltage,

transformerless inverter weighing less than 16 lb. The

wide input voltage and can mount easily

full-featured model offers dual CPU design, low input

for convenient installation and repair.

voltage (50 V), a NEMA 4X enclosure, apps for data monitoring and 127 Vac low voltage.

Residential Owners Can Access Incentives Easily SolarEdge Technologies www.solaredge.com SolarEdge's single-phase inverters with revenuegrade data accuracy allow residential system owners to access regional and federal financial incentives easier. It has optional rapid shutdown functionality for rooftop safety by de-energizing PV source circuits to less than 30 V within 10 seconds.

A String Inverter For Utility Scale Sungrow www.sungrow.ca The SG60KU utility string inverter can reach 99% peak efficiency, has built-in MC4 connectors and 2-to-1 junction, string level monitoring and MODBUS daisy chain. It can be tilted backward and installed horizontally due to unique thermal/air flow design.

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MORE FLEXIBILITY...

WITH SMA TECHNOLOGY

The Sunny Tripower TL-US makes design simple and repeatable – even for challenging rooftops. Two MPP trackers, 600 or 1000 V DC operation, and a variety of powerful monitoring options make it ideal for any application. And, when integrated into the SMA ReadyRack™ rooftop kit, commercial projects get done faster than ever before. It simply doesn’t get easier.

Learn more at SMA-America.com

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2014

A Skid-less Inverter Station

CENTRAL

Eaton www.eaton.com/ powerxpertsolar Designed to lower the plantlevelized cost of electricity, the Power Xpert Solar 1670-kW inverter enables a skid-less inverter station to reduce equipment and installation costs. Energy harvest is increased through 98.5% CEC weighted efficiency and fault-tolerant design.

Smart, Efficient And Grid Friendly Parker Hannifin www.parker.com/egt

Modular Central Inverter Increases Efficiency

Parker’s 890GT-S outdoor

Bonfiglioli USA bonfiglioliusa.com/pv

inverter handles 2 MW at 1000 Vdc input. Featuring grid parallel and island modes, fault

Bonfiglioli’s RPS TL-UL inverter series optimizes ROI

ride-through, and full control

for medium to large-scale installations. The modular

of real and reactive power,

architecture increases energy efficiency, available

the 890GT-S is grid friendly.

either in multi-MPPT configuration for minimum

Parker’s integrated refrigerant

mismatching losses, or in master-slave configuration

cooling system provides high

for the high efficiency even at low irradiation levels.

efficiency and compactness.

A Preassembled Solution Nextronex www.nextronex.com The Nextronex Ray-Max Power Podium in integrated inverter using Nextronex distributed architecture, which is battery storage and microgrid ready. It is a preassembled, prewired and precommissioned. It provides “plug & play” easy installation in the field supported by the Nextronex team.

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MORE PROFIT...

WITH SMA’S COMMERCIAL O&M

Commercial projects aren’t complete when you turn the power on.

SMA protects against lost profit through a host of essential O&M services. You’ve already chosen the world’s best three-phase inverter – the Sunny Tripower TL-US. Now choose the industry’s #1 service team to realize the full potential of your PV investment.

Learn more at SMA-America.com

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+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

Freesun Modules Make Up For Failures Power Electronics www.power-electronics.com All of the Freesun HE’s modules are coupled

by DC and AC buses in case one module fails. Its frames may have up to ten modules able to perform MPPT tracking and act as a master. Power stations with two inverters can be synchronized and connected to one

A Single Power Block

step-up transformer with a single winding.

Ingeteam www.ingeteam.com

Power Density Provides Simplified Logistics

The Ingecon Sun PowerMax Monoblock consists of three-phase central PV inverters with a single power block. It can achieve

SMA America www.SMA-America.com

maximum efficiency values of 98.9%. DC and AC supplies are integrated in the same cabinet.

It has 1,055 kVa rated power up to 50°C.

The Sunny Central 2000-US inverter ‘s power density provides simplified logistics and 2,000 kVA of output power at 1,000 Vdc. It features a high DC-to-AC design ratio and nominal power operation from -25 to 50°C.

Maximum Yield And Made In The USA

String And Central In A Single Package SolarMax USA www.solarmax.com

Santerno us.santerno.com

SolarMax’s 500RX A and 600RX A Santerno TG 760 1000V TL-NA solar

offer the benefits of string and central

inverters are manufactured in the USA for use

inverters in a single package for utility

in media and large utility-scale PV systems.

scale projects. They offer multiple

These outdoor inverters are designed to

MPPT and modular power units

deliver maximum yield for the lowest cost.

configured up to 2.4 MW.

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4683 Solar PW (US) FP Ad 229x276

29/5/13

17:12

Page 1

NEW

Performs the following tests: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Ground Continuity Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) Short Circuit Current (Isc) Polarity Insulation Test (IRT) Real Time Irradiance Panel & Ambient Temperature

Faster, safer, traceable solar PV testing.

It’s in the bag.

The PV150 Solarlink Test Kit contains more than simply the tools to meet all the commissioning test requirements of NABCEP and other international standards. It holds the secret to making it more efficient, easier and safer.

TM

Solarlink connectivity between the PV150 tester and Solar Survey 200R irradiance meter, allows irradiance, module and ambient temperature results from the 200R to be transmitted over a wireless link and be recorded in real time in the PV150. This is the only PV installation tester with all of the PV electrical test functions in one hand-held unit. And now, you can improve speed and traceability by downloading all results via USB. TM

FREE

PV Commissioning and Testing guidance book and posters Visit seawardsolar.com/spw

The solution to gaining the competitive edge? It’s in the bag.

Available now, contact us for full details 813-886-2775 www.seawardsolar.com/spw or email enquiry@seawardsolar.com

SOLAR

Part of

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2014

Efficient, Reliable, Economic Solectria Renewables www.solectria.com Solectria’s SGI 500/750XTM inverters are highly efficient (98% CEC weighted efficiency), reliable and economic. The outdoor-rated inverters can be configured as 1 or 1.5-MW stations. They may also be configured with utility-scale options (ie. VAR support).

Reliability And Reduced Energy Costs TMEIC Corporation www.tmeic.com The Solar Ware Samurai outdoor PCS offers a stand-alone capacity of 1,883 kW. The inverter’s 99% maximum efficiency and hybrid cooling system with fanless operation up to 50% of the output power rating maintains high reliability and reduces energy costs.

Up To 24 Inverters On A Breaker

MICROINVERTERS

Darfon America Corp. www.darfonsolar.com

ThreePhase Output For Large Projects

Darfon’s MIG300 is designed to allow up to 24 inverters on a single two-pole, 30-A breaker, reducing balance of systems costs and installation time. It comes with a 25-year warranty and module by module monitoring.

APS America www.apsamerica.com The APS YC1000-3 microinverter provides 277 to 480-V, 3-phase output for large commercial applications. It works with three or four PV modules (up to 310 W each), and connects 13 units in a daisy chain, linking up to 52 modules (60 or 72-cell) per circuit.

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Smaller, Lighter, More Power

Catered To Three-Phase Commercial

Enecsys www.enecsys.com

Enphase Energy enphase.com/microinverters

Enecsys offers its smallest and lightest microinverter,

The Enphase C250 microinverter supports 480-V, three-phase

weighing 2.3 lb (1.06kg). The 250NL supports most 60-

commercial installations for 72 and 60-cell modules. The C250 offers

cell modules up to 300 W STC. A single part number

all the advantages of the microinverter family, with warranty options of

complies with all regions Enecsys supports and sustains

10 or 20 years for financial flexibility and peace of mind.

extreme conditions, operating in -40°C to 85°C.

OFF-GRID AND OTHERS Integrated Solar Inversion System American Electric Technologies, Inc. (AETI) www.aeti.com AETI’s Integrated Solar Inversion Station is designed for utility grade solar projects 1 MW and above, using a modular suite of 1.0 and 1.5MW solar inversion platforms and 15 and 38-kV utility interconnection platforms.

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2014

A Hybrid (Solar + Battery) System CEC Great Wall Energy www.satcon.com The Satcon Galaxy 30-kW, 46 kVA hybrid power conditioning system is for DC inputs from solar power and energy storage. There are AC connections for the electrical load and any auxiliary AC source. Battery charging works from the solar array or the auxiliary AC source.

No Stacking Required Magnum Energy www. magnumenergy.com The pure sine wave MS-PAE Series inverter / charger for demanding renewable

3-Port Hybrid Product Ideal Power Converters www.idealpower.com This 3-port hybrid converter uses the manufacturer’s Power Packet Switching Architecture to deliver efficient, high-performance PV and energy storage integration. The model supports grid-tied and microgrid applications, at a ~90% reduced size and weight.

applications can provide 120 and 240 V output in one unit, eliminating the need to stack

The Advantages Of MLPEs And String Inverters

two units together. Parallel up to four for up to 17.6 kW.

KACO new energy www.kaco-newenergy.com The KACO Ultraverter provides advantages of MLPEs and string inverters. It saves operational costs with a single part SKU from 1 kW to 11 kW. Commission, monitor and maintain your project with modulelevel conversion, integrated cellular data back haul, revenue-grade metering and installation tools.

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A FuturePerfect Inverter

Bi-Directional Design

Outback Power Technologies www. outbackpower. com

The GTIB-100 has a bi-directional design for batteries, solar, on-grid and

Radian inverters help users make the most of solar projects through GridZero technology, which maximizes renewable energy effectiveness while minimizing grid dependency. Advanced battery charge profiles allow compatibility with battery technologies such as

Princeton Power Systems www.princetonpower.com

off-grid applications. The GTIB-100 has been chosen for many microgrid applications around the world during the past five years.

An Adaptable And Scalable Hybrid Solution Schneider Electric solar.schneider-electric.com Conext XW+ is an adaptable and scalable hybrid solution for off-grid solar. It’s self-consumption providing long-term backup for homes, small businesses and remote communities.

Features include: remote monitoring and configuration, modular multi-cluster to 102 kW and AC and DC coupled PV.

lithium-ion and others.

The Strengths of String And MLPEs Tigo Energy and Fronius USA http://www.fronius.com/ The Fronius FE Inverter Line leverages the strengths of string inverters with Tigo's modulelevel power electronics, integrated communications and monitoring and analytics. The line streamlines design, maximizes energy production, and reduces shade impact, all while allowing for significant design flexibility.

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2014

BALANCE OF SYSTEMS A solar installation is only as good as the quality of its components.

Choosing reliable combiner boxes and switchgear helps build strong bones for your project. Using the right storage options will boost project performance and ROI. Working with trustworthy companies for site

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assessment and accurately monitoring the project once it’s built is also key in keeping your plant performing and profitable. Here are some of the best balance of systems technologies we’ve come across this year.

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+ top100 PRODUCTS OF

2014

COMPONENTS

TO P 100 + PR O D UCT S O F 2 0 14

PV Surge Protective Device

Nonmetallic Wall-Mount Cabinet For Industrial Applications

CITEL www.citel.us

Allied Moulded Products www.alliedmoulded.com

power applications up to 1200Vdc. The

DS60VGPV is a UL1449 Type 1CA DC Surge Protection Device (SPD) for high risk PV DS60VGPV provides protection against the direct and indirect effects of lightning and

Allied Moulded’s new 36" x 30" x 12" Empire Series

has a unique no-leakage current design.

(AMEC363012T) enclosure is a fiberglass wall-mount cabinet

It uses CITEL's Long Life Expectancy VG

that offers durability and strength for indoor or outdoor

Technology, increasing the SPD life up to

applications, providing a water tight seal for NEMA 4X rating.

5 times longer than a regular MOV-based SPD. The UL 1449 3rd Edition – DC Rated

LHL 3-Winding SolarPAD

SPD's, Type 1CA – is ready for 2016.

CG www.cgglobal.us The LHL style winding allows for galvanic isolation of two inverters when connected to the same transformer while maintaining a high impedance between each inverter as required by many of the largest inverter manufacturers. The LHL style 3-winding offers similar performance to the industry proven 4-winding style, while offering the benefits of reduced complexity and cost, particularly for 1 MW and smaller inverters.

PV Slewing Drive

Cone Drive www.conedrive.com Cone Drive slewing drives and worm gear drives deliver high dynamic and static torque load capacity in a small amount of space. For applications where pointing accuracy is critical, Cone Drive’s double-enveloping worm gear technology provides ultimate tracking precision and accuracy. Cone Drive’s robust quality production systems assure delivery integrity so construction projects stay on schedule.

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2014

Revenue-Grade WattNode Meters For Energy Monitoring Continental Control Systems www.ccontrolsys.com Reveue-grade electric power meters, the WattNode Revenue, along with their revenue-grade split core current transformers, are ANSI C12 certified. The WattNode Revenue meters are an economic solution for the revenue-grade meter market.

Portable I-V Checker EKO Instruments USA http://eko-usa.com/

General Cable Photovoltaic Wire

The MP-11 I-V Checker measures

General Cable www.generalcable.com

I-V curves based on the parameters (Vmax, Imax, Pmax, Voc, Isc, FF, Tmod,

General Cable’s SunGen PV wire offers sunlight resistance while providing stable electrical

ηeff) of any PV module type and array,

properties over a broad temperature range. Used for interconnection wiring of PV power

also called strings. The MP-11 can be

systems, SunGen PV Wire is made in accordance with UL 4703 and is rated for direct burial.

used for almost any module type as long as the output fits in these ranges: 10 to 1000V / 100mA to 30A

Ground-Breaking BPad Solar Bonding Connector Series

/ 10W to 18 kW.

ILSCO www.ilsco.com ILSCO’s Viritium, green plated, BPad solar bonding connectors designate ground points. Solar bonding washers (type SBW), clips (type SBC) and jumper cables (type SBJ) are manufactured from 300 series stainless steel to ensure maximum strength and durability. Approved for use with anodized aluminum, mill finished aluminum and galvanized steel rack mounting systems. Conical contact points penetrate the mounting surface to create a solid bond.

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Easy Electrical Testing Megger www.megger.com The MIT410 is a handheld, field-rugged instrument that performs fundamental test of electrical system reliability (insulation resistance). It also performs a regime of corollary tests that help operators fine tune the final assessment.

The New MidNite Solar Kid 30A MPPT Charge Control MidNite Solar www.midnitesolar.com This 30-amp controller offers true paralleling on input if you need to add a second controller. It’s made for small to medium sized renewable systems.

New Photovoltaic Fuse Holder Marathon Special Products www.marathonsp.com Marathon Special Products' PV10BW series is uniquely designed with terminals to accept standard stock bus bars, eliminating the need for custom fabricated comb bus bars. The 1000V fuse holder is designed to improve performance and reduce material and labor costs.

Better Battery Life And Lower Costs Maxwell Technologies www.maxwell.com

Wireless Computer For Big Data Moxa www.moxa.com The small form factor

Maxwell K2 ultracapacitors enable smooth

UC-8100 wireless

power delivery, improving grid stability and

Linux computer is designed for large

reducing short-duration disruptions with

scale, big data WAN computing solutions.

low maintenance and operation costs. The

It is built around an ARMv7 Cortex-A8

ultracapacitors can be used as a standalone

processor, and comes with up to two RS-

energy storage solution or as a hybrid solution

422/485 serial ports alongside dual 10/100

with batteries or other storage technologies.

Mbps Ethernet LAN ports.

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2014

An Alternative To Traditional Collection-Point Substations S&C Electric Company www.sandc.com System VI Switchgear is a cost-effective alternative to collection-point substation, and it commissions in less time. It provides a single interconnection point, is available in ratings through 35 kV and has a low voltage enclosure for protective relay, metering and SCADA equipment.

Touch-Safe Fuse Cover Shurter www.schurterinc. com Schurter's cover for PCB mount fuse clips safely and securely inserts and extracts the fuse. When using the ESO 10.3x.8 with Schurter’s's CSO fuse clips, the combination carries cURus certification and is ideal for applications in the solar.

Current Sensors For Up To 1000 A Tamura Corp www.tamuracorp.com This DC current sensor series is applicable for use in PV system re-combiner boxes, especially in commercial applications. It can also be used in commercial inverters. Other features include closed loop, high current and flexibility to mount vertically or horizontally.

Solar Microinverter Development Kit Texas Instruments www.ti.com/tool/tmdssolaruinvkit TI’s Solar Microinverter Development Kit implements a complete grid-tied inverter, offering 93% peak efficiency and 4% total harmonic distortion for increased solar panel output. The kit offers software libraries, source code, design files and documentation to simplify development.

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On-Load Breaking On Just Two Poles Socomec www.socomec.us Socomec’s new range of switches allows onload breaking of 1000 Vdc on just two poles. This provides a compact solution and reduces overall heat dissipation. The switches are UL98B listed.

Box Boosts Output Of PV Systems Ultrasolar Technology www.ultrasolar.com Ultrasolar Technology’s Quantum Boost box increases the output of PV systems by 15% or more for both new and old installations using a proven patented approach that significantly enhances the efficiency of PV solar panels

STORAGE

Batteries Offer 3690 AH Capacity Crown Battery Manufacturing Company www.crownbattery.com Crown Battery’s CRP Power Module batteries are designed from the ground up for renewable energy applications from off-grid systems to battery backup. Robotic welding in the manufacturing process delivers more precision and a higher quality finished product than traditional manual welding techniques. Automated assembly allows for inserted SolidCast internal connectors that handle high electrical loads with unmatched reliability. These 2-volt batteries offer up to 3690 amp-hour capacity.

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2014

Improved Battery Performance In Partial State Of Charge Trojan Battery www. trojanbattery. com

Deka Solar Photovoltaic Batteries

Addressing the impact of partial state of charge in renewable energy applications, Trojan Battery features smart

MK Battery www.mkbattery.com

sarbon in its industrial and premium batteries, offering increased life,

The DEKA UNIGY II LINE features two

improved charging and

module designs with a wide range of

recharging.

capacities and sizes to fit the requirements of renewable energy applications.

U.S. Battery RE-Series Deep Cycle Batteries

VARTA Storage's Engion Solar Energy Storage Series

U.S. Battery www. usbattery. com

Varta Microbattery www.varta-microbattery. com

U.S. Battery RE Series deep cycle batteries

VARTA Storage’s Engion Home systems

feature XC2TM

are provided with capacities of from

formulation, defender

2.8 kWh to 6.9 kWh and a battery

moss shields, outside

inverter capacity of up to 2.4 kW, whereas Engion Family systems are

positive plate design, and

offered with capacities of from 3.7 kWh to 13.8 kWh and with a battery

Diamond Plate Technology

inverter capacity of up to 4 kW. The series supports 3-phase 400 VAC

to provide longer, more

input along with an Ethernet interface. It also boasts an expected life

reliable power, and reduce the

of up to 8,000 cycles and a 20-year lifespan. The series is engineered

effects of sulfation.

with extensive redundant mechanical and electrical functions, flameretardant housing and automatic overvoltage cutoff.

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MONITORING PowerTrack PV Monitoring Software AlsoEnergy www.alsoenergy.com PowerTrack featuring tools for portfolio management including: • Site performance analysis • Portfolio performance analysis • Workflow integration • Integrated ticketing • Third party data base integration • Third party tool integration • Mobile Applications

Solar1000SCE Solar Monitoring Station

eGauge 3 Series eGauge Systems eGauge.net The eGauge is a web-based electric energy and power meter that can

Campbell Scientific www.campbellsci.com/ solar The Solar1000-SCE is a meteorological station that meets CAISO PIRP standards

measure up to 12 circuits on up to 3-phases (120V−480V, 50−60Hz). It can measure and record whole-house consumption and solar generation.

Solar-Log 1200

Solar Data Systems www.solar-log.com

and SCE specifications.

Designed with high quality

Solar Data Systems’ beautifully shaped Solar-Log 1200 is designed for

ISO/WMO sensors, the station

the essential task of monitoring device failure and yield monitoring.

provides real-time weather data

Its elegant, easily readable TFT color touch screen and a smaller LCD

direct to any SCADA or asset

display fit its function perfectly. It can be installed in plants with a

management system.

maximum total power of 100 kWp, regardless of the number of inverters.

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2014

Virtual Irradiance

Locus Energy www.locusenergy.com

Virtual Irradiance (VI) is an advanced irradiance modeling tool which provides solar fleet operators with valuable data on

The Synapse Wireless SNAPshot Ecosystem

the amount of sunlight that is striking the ground, enabling a highly accurate assessment of solar PV system performance.

Synapse Wireless www.synapsewireless.com The Synapse Wireless/Shoals Technology SNAPshot ecosystem drives greater efficiency and peace of mind for solar owners and operators.

SNAPshot features include precise monitoring, a cloud-based platform, big-data analytics, arc-fault detection, and velocity monitoring.

String-Level PV Monitoring Phoenix Contact www.phoenixcontact.com SOLARCHECK is a string-level PV monitoring solutions that allows clear and precise fault monitoring within an array. Power via the

Virtual Control Room (VCOM)

data cable eliminates combiner box power supplies. Compact and flexible positioning simplifies installation. SOLARCHECK data

meteocontrol www.meteocontrol.com

maximizes your PV array ROI.

The Solmetric PV Analyzer (I-V Curve Tracer Solmetric www.solmetric.com

The Virtual Control Room is an advanced, multiscreen capable Web 2.0 application for renewable portfolio asset management;

Used for testing PV system performance

featuring personalized interface design,

during commissioning, troubleshooting

advanced operations management,

and ongoing O&M. A wireless design with

preprogrammed performance analysis, and

advanced software allows for fast and

automated reporting.

accurate field measurements.

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SITE ASSESSMENT

Smart Sensor For All Met Stations Needs Lufft www.lufftsolar.com The WS503-UMB Smart Weather Sensor measures

A Smart Way To Measure Solar Radiation

temperature, relative humidity, pressure, wind, and is Kipp & Zonen CMP3 solar radiation integrated. The heated

Kipp & Zonen www.kippzonen.com

ultrasonic wind sensor tells wind direction and wind speed in one. Measurement

Kipp & Zonen introduces a perfect combination

outputs include: UMB-Binary,

of two recent successful launches combined into

UMB-ASCII, SDI-12, MODBUS

one instrument: the low maintenance SMP10

and NEMA-XDR. Surface

pyranometer with smart digital signal processing.

temperature sensors and rain gauges are connectable.

Seaward Solar PV150 Solarlink Test Kit Seaward Solar www. seawardsolar. com

Daily Reconciliation Solar API Vaisala www.vaisala. com/solar Using a proven satellite methodology,

The Seaward Solarlink

Vaisala offers

Kit is designed to

yesterday’s solar

allow installers to

and weather

check and maintain

data today.

installations simply

Evaluate project

and effectively. It

performance at a

performs all electrical

single PV site or

safety tests required

an entire portfolio

under IEC62446, and

within North

ensures that PV systems are working correctly without hazard.

America.

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S

P

E

C

I

A

L

S

E

C

T

I

O

N

SOLAR THERMAL pg. 57 FEATURING:

Apricus Solar; Stiebel Eltron; Solar Source

INSURANCE pg. 62 FEATURING:

GEM Energy; Travelers Insurance; Southern Solar Systems

FINANCE pg. 66 FEATURING:

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Provident Credit Union; First Green Bank; Technology Credit Corp.

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Photo courtesy of Solar Source

11/13/14 7:57 PM

SOLAR THERMAL

How Manufacturers Can

Help Ensure Quality Solar Thermal Projects MICHAEL HUMPHREYS S P E C I A L TO S O L A R P O W E R W O R L D

When a solar thermal system fails to deliver, the solar panel manufacturer typically carries the burden of complaints.

W

hile the system is comprised of a range of components– pumps, valves, tanks, controls–the collectors are often seen as the heart (and brand) of the system. As solar panel manufacturers, we should endeavor to ensure accountability of the system as a whole.

Over the years, my team has encountered many concerns regarding system performance and failure.

While some were genuine issues related to the solar collector, the vast majority were design and installation flaws. Some familiar examples of installation issues are undersized expansion tanks, pressure and temperature relief valves installed too near the collectors, low temperature rated components, misplaced temperature

sensors and structurally flawed mounting structures.

As manufacturers, our focus is to produce and sell quality products. Our businesses are based on quality. But when we are also blamed for the failure of improperly installed systems, how much responsibility do we assume to ensure quality installations? Of course, we have installation manuals and training sessions, but we can’t guarantee that they are read or attended by every installer.

My take is that a manufacturer, or a representative of one, must remain in open communication with installers. The responsibility of ensuring quality projects is a two-way street, whereby manufacturers should actively ask questions in addition to answering them. This helps ensure that

For the sake of the industry and our brands, let’s take responsibility for how our products are implemented by reviewing system designs

Solar Thermal 11-14__Vs4KZ.indd 57

A large solar thermal installation in a hot climate had PTRVs (pressure and temperature relief valves) installed on the hot outlet of each bank of collectors. Manufacturers could have communicated why PTRVs were unnecessary and a hindrance in this scenario.

a designing engineer and contractor have a sound understanding of the solar thermal system. This is especially true of HVAC professionals who have little or no experience with solar thermal, regardless of their overall hot water experience. Too often solar thermal systems are installed using standard HVAC components and design conventions, which are not always suitable for the much higher temperatures that solar systems can experience.

Let me offer an example. A large solar thermal installation in a hot climate had PTRVs (pressure and temperature relief valves) installed on the hot outlet of each bank of collectors. This was in addition to a seriously undersized expansion tank.

The result was a system that would dump heat-transfer fluid each time the system reached a high operating temperature. The system owners were forced to shut the 11 • 2014

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system down until changes could be made.

The PTRVs were not designed for solar thermal applications, but traditional practices require them for safety. We had no involvement in the design of this system, but if we had, we could have communicated why PTRVs were unnecessary and a hindrance in this scenario.

Who is responsible for the poor design of this system? I would suggest that I am. I failed to ensure that distribution channels knew that we offer–and highly recommend–free system design review services.

The reality is that my team does have involvement in most projects, and so most are designed correctly and perform well. The communication between the manufacturer, designer and installer is crucial. Contractors with experience in solar thermal don’t require oversight for every project, but still appreciate a quick review of their designs. It is those few cases where a general contractor has won a bid-spec product and we are not engaged to review the design where issues arise, giving the solar industry and its brands a bad reputation.

So for the sake of the industry and our brands, let’s take responsibility for how our products are implemented by reviewing system designs where possible before rudimentary mistakes are made.

It will certainly save some of the lost time and money that dealing with failed projects can cause. SPW Michael Humphreys is the founder and CEO of Apricus Solar, a manufacturer and integrator of solar thermal systems globally

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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11-14 DPW-SPW

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SOLAR THERMAL

Q&A: Stiebel Eltron with

Solar Power World: How is the solar hot water industry doing?

Stiebel Eltron: Generally solar hot water sales have been flat, or trending downward slightly over the past few years, due in large part to more affordable, easier to install PV. At the end of 2013, there were 201 companies in 43 countries manufacturing flat plate collectors and 85 vacuum tube collector manufacturers in 22 countries.

Obviously, there was plenty of capacity to supply solar hot water equipment.

Part of the trend may be that national promotion of solar hot water (SHW) is nonexistent in the U.S. SHW is not a demonstrated technology at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Boulder, Colo. That is discouraging of itself, but more so considering that SHW is 4 times more efficient than PV on a KWH produced per square foot of collector surface.

Most people think “solar” is only PV. There seems to be a lack of understanding by the general public.

SPW: How is solar hot water technology changing?

SE: SHW technology, like PV, has seen steady improvements year-over-year during the last 15 years.

However, both the basic technologies have remained essentially unchanged over the past 60 years or so.

Both technologies shine like the sun when appropriate engineering is applied to the project at-hand.

There are many types of solar water heating technology that exist and serve the myriad regional

markets, e.g. thermo siphon, drain back, open loop, steam back, closed loop. Each technology has its place in various regions around the world as the more appropriate application of technology.

Integrated solar energy production monitoring will, in my opinion, validate SHW as a viable renewable energy technology and provide a platform for SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) in the SHW market.

SPW: What’s one mistake you often see made when it comes to solar hot water installations?

SE: The biggest mistake is lack of follow up by the installer in the first few months after the installation is completed. It’s a critical time to ensure the correct functioning of the system and to see if the customer is satisfied.

SPW: What’s Stiebel Eltron’s latest product for solar applications and how does it improve upon previous versions?

SE: The Sol 27 flat plate collector with installer friendly racking systems (both made in Hatfield, Mass.). Steam back over heat protection ensures the customer never has to worry about system overheating during power interruptions.

SolarWave provides remote configuration and online computer monitoring with a record of solar energy produced.

SPW: So what is next for the solar hot water industry?

SE: Integrated SHW/geothermal systems in main stream housing and affordable SHW/Radiant/Electric heating systems for low-energy homes. These concepts are already being implemented by creative system designers and installers! SPW

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Solar Power World posed a few questions relating to the solar hot water industry to Chris Wetherby, the leader of the Renewables Deptartment at Stiebel Eltron, manufacturer of solar hot water equipment.

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Tips For Successful

Solar Hot Water Installations RICK GILBERT

SPECIAL TO SOLAR POWER WORLD

Solar Hot Water (SHW) has been around a very long time.

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hroughout recorded history humans used either fire or the sun to heat water. Some communities now have solar water in over 90% of their homes. SHW is often the “forgotten solar” among many professionals nowadays, as PV prices continue to fall and more people are drawn toward the appeal of generating their own electricity. Nonetheless, SHW represents the largest solar market on Earth, and is an affordable alternative to

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PV that is reliable, environmentally friendly and saves people money.

The average SHW system is the equivalent of a 2-kW PV system.

Consumers qualify for the 30% tax credit and many utilities offer additional incentives on top of that.

Utilities are traditionally friendlier toward SHW than its PV cousin, partially because SHW’s built-in storage helps reduce morning peak loads (especially in the winter months).

SHW is generally viewed as the least costly way to reduce an electric bill.

Depending on whether a family lives in a warmer or colder climate, systems range from $5,000 to $7,500, with full payback averaging four years.

Installing a SHW system presents its own unique set of challenges. Those inexperienced to SHW can get into trouble quickly by not following a few simple best practices. Some simple tips for quality installations are as follows: • You will need a well-rounded crew that is familiar with roofing, plumbing and light electrical work.

• Whenever possible, mount the collectors in portrait orientation, not landscape. Most are designed with the risers inside running lengthwise allowing for easy draining and eliminating riser sag that can cause freeze damage. This is a critical mistake often made by new installers.

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SOLAR THERMAL • Do not mount too low down into the eaves area of the roof. This area is very difficult to reach from inside the attic space and can cause the installer to have to run plumbing lines outside of the house.

• The tendency is to think of lowering the high limit on the differential controller. In reality, this is the opposite of what should be done, especially in warmer climates. SHW works very well, so the water coming out of the collector can be extremely hot. Raising the high limit keeps the water circulating, which reduces the chances of melting freeze valves or blowing pressure relief valves. A mixing valve or anti-scald valve should also be installed in these situations.

• Install the appropriate kind of system for the region. There are several different kinds of SHW systems. Become familiar with words like active, passive, drain back and evacuated tube. Sometimes companies get caught up in using a single product for every application.

This is completely wrong and can cause problems later. Always check with the local utility to see if they require a certain type of installation in to qualify for rebates.

The average residential system can be installed by two workers in about one day.

Many contractors like these jobs because they are easier to finance, quick to install and can generally get paid the same day. Typically, your phone rings and the customer on the end states they “want to go solar.” Most of the time, this can be translated to “I want to save money.”

SHW gives homeowners a less expensive alternative to PV. It reduces the homeowner’s utility bill by saving electricity versus creating it.

As solar has become more mainstream, new advances in technology are revolutionizing the industry. For instance, there are newer polymer collectors that prevent corrosion. Currently, there is movement toward PV-to-tank hot water systems that completely eliminate the SHW collector, something a solar electric contractor should find very appealing. If you’re strategizing new ways to grow your solar business and add to your existing product line, SHW may be the answer you’ve been seeking. SHW will not only help you gain new customers, it gives you

another reliable product to go back and sell to your existing customers, helping them save even more money and further reduce carbon emissions. SPW Rick Gilbert is Executive Vice President of Florida-based Solar Source, a SPW Top 400 Contractor specializing in residential, commercial and industrial projects.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? Connect and discuss this and other solar issues with thousands of professionals online

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Tile Hook

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Insurance Cheat Sheet:

Four Questions Businesses Ask Jason Slattery, Director of Solar for GEM Energy, a Rudolph/ Libbe Company and Top 400 Solar Contractor, answers common questions businesses ask about going solar.

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What insurance will I need if I own a solar array?

The title owner needs to fully cover the solar array’s value under a property and liability insurance policy.

How will a third-party-owned solar array affect my business liability insurance?

If the solar array is third-partyowned, the system owner needs to cover property and liability coverage.

If the array is fully covered under this third-party-owner, there should be no need for additional coverage.

It is recommended that property owners consult their existing insurers for guidance. If the array is direct-owned, property and liability coverage in the amount of the solar system needs to be in place.

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3 4

Do you need to list solar as an accessory structure or property?

Solar is defined under IRS classifications as equipment. It is not part of the permanent structure.

What happens in case of a building fire?

Solar arrays should be properly grounded. If proper photovoltaic design practices are followed, solar will not contribute to a fire. Proper means of disconnect should be designed and processes put in place with all local police and fire responders to properly disconnect and make safe live power generation devices, such as a solar array.

Damage to the array because of fire should be covered under the property and liability insurance that would be covering the value of the solar array. SPW

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SEIA Members Receive Insurance Discounts Did you know that SEIA members receive discounts on a full suite of insurance policies designed for solar businesses of all sizes through HUB International?

SEIA provides a member insurance program designed specifically for solar companies. Coverage is offered to solar manufacturers, distributors, installers and other SEIA members. You can pick only the plans you need to increase your coverage and protect your business.

Plans include: • General Liability • Workers' Compensation • Group Medical & Dental • Surety • Property • Motor Vehicle Liability • Professional Liability

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HUB International is a global insurance brokerage that provides a broad array of property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services.

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INSURANCE

Insuring Your Solar Business Matthew Burrows, Senior Product Director of Travelers Construction; Scott Foyer, National Construction Practice Lead for Travelers; and Chris Shearburn, Systems Manager at Southern Solar Systems, weigh in on what you need to know to properly insure your solar business.

Solar Power World: What kind of insurance does a solar installation company need? Does it depend on scale, segment or state?

“The insurance needs of a company installing solar depends on many factors.

Every company should purchase a standard suite of property and liability coverage: workers’ compensation, auto, general liability and property coverages.

But the amount of coverage varies depending on the type of solar installation (rooftop versus utility scale farms), the legal environment of the state you are working in and the terms of each project contract. We also recommend professional liability coverage if there is any design work done by, or on behalf of, the contractor.” - Matthew Burrows, Senior Product Director of Travelers Construction “If you are acting as the general contractor or working with large commercial or utility systems, you may want to purchase a builder’s risk policy to cover the entire project including the loss of income for the project owner. But if your installation company works as a subcontractor, or on smaller residential projects, you may only require an installation policy. Both policies usually include transit coverage (which covers

Photo courtesy of RevoluSun

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the transportation of materials to the job) and temporary storage (if materials need to be temporarily stored off-site prior to installation).” -Scott Foyer, National Construction Practice Lead for Travelers “As mainly a commercial EPC, we normally only require general liability and workers’ compensation. General liability and workers’ compensation coverage levels normally do not change for residential and small commercial work.”

-Chris Shearburn, Southern Solar Systems, a SPW Top 400 Contractor

Solar Power World: How should a solar contractor approach purchasing insurance?

“It’s important to work with an agent or carrier who has the resources and dedicated technical staff to address the specialized needs of a solar contractor.

Look for a carrier that can offer a variety of support, including educational materials and training specifically for construction hazards.” - Foyer

SPW: Do electricians have similar exposures or risks as roofers?

“Yes. Many contractors involved in installing solar panels may not feel they are roofers per say. But if you’re going to be working on a rooftop, you are exposed to many similar risks as a traditional roofing

contractor, such as falls from heights.

Anchoring a system to a roof involves penetrating the roof, creating potential liabilities similar to what a roofer would have, which the insurance carrier needs to take into account.” - Burrows “If you're the general contractor, you are ultimately responsible for the electrical and roofing side of the project. Any subs will carry this liability along with you.” - Shearburn

Solar Power World: Do you have tips or best practices for working with insurance providers?

“It’s important to be open when communicating with your insurance company. During the quoting process, the more information an insurance provider has about your operations, the better job we can do to help you craft the appropriate coverage and potential safety programs best suited for your company.

Timely communication is also critical when reporting claims because the sooner we can get involved, the quicker we can resolve it.” - Burrows “We recommend reporting any changes in your operations to your agent or broker so they can alert your carrier who can make sure to update your policy so you are protected .” - Foyer SPW

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How To Speak Solar With Your

Local/Regional Banks

Solar installers, EPCs and project developers had just started breathing sighs of relief because they had finally helped institutional banks, like Wells Fargo, Merrill Lynch and Citibank, understand solar industry economics.

But while utility-scale projects are finding it easier to get funding, there’s still a lack of it in the small-commercial and residential segments. Community and regional banks could hold the keys to increasing access to capital for those projects, but installers are wary: How will the industry explain solar economics to a whole new group of bankers, many of whom have never seen a solar array?

“Many financial institutions, banks and credit unions alike, have been late to the game as it pertains to solar installation financing because they didn’t realize what a tremendous opportunity it was,” says Scott Pellegrini, area VP of consumer lending for Provident Credit Union. “Our solar portfolio has performed exceptionally well.”

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According to the bankers, the four key ingredients to finding local solar financing are: • • • •

Good project cash flow projections Excellent installer credit Excellent installer reputation A long-term relationship with the lending institution

Jeff Cowherd, senior VP for First Green Bank in Florida, says cash flow is the most important criterion local banks will examine.

“Demonstrate to the banker that the borrower will have an improved cash-flow because of the energy savings the solar array will provide for them,” Cowherd says.

“These savings can often be used to help service the subject debt.”

Demonstrate to the banker that the borrower will have an improved cashflow because of the energy savings the solar array will provide for them It’s not only about cash flow, however. Scott Hawkins, CFO at Technology Credit Corp., says banks lend based on customer credit, not on the quality of the project or its cash flows. “The project is only collateral to the lending arrangement and will not overcome weak customer credit,” he says.

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Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com

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FINANCE

»»»

Looking for more?

The panelists include: Scott Pellegrini AVP Consumer Lending Provident Credit Union

For Provident, Pellegrini says they have specific criteria on which the credit union decides which projects are worthy of funding.

“The borrower must have good credit (more than 700 FICO) and a debt to income ratio of 35% or less,” Pellegrini says. “The property must be owner-occupied within our geographic footprint. There are other factors, too, but those are the first two we study.”

The credit union also examines the background of the installer, Pelligrini adds. In particular, Provident prefers its installers to have an excellent rating with the Better Business Bureau, and membership in a California solar energy industry association is preferred.

Cowherd concurs. “Our bank likes to see our borrowers use a contractor who is a member of our state’s Solar Energy Industries Association chapter,” he says.

“This gives the banker some comfort as to the ability of the contractor to perform the work properly.”

If the installer is not a member of a recognized association, the banker will want three references from those who have done business with the contractor so the bank can get some comfort with the contractor that way, he adds.

On Nov. 20, Solar Power World will present a webinar discussing how installers can sell solar projects to their local banks.

Our distinguished panelists, drawn from some of the most innovative funding organizations in the country, have agreed to spend an hour answering your questions on financing small-commercial and residential projects through smaller, less institutional funding organizations. Get your questions ready and submit them ahead of time to webinars@wtwhmedia.com. This webinar will be recorded and sent to all registrants so even if you can’t make it live, register to obtain a copy anyway at www.solarpowerworldonline.com.

Jeff Cowherd Senior Vice President First Green Bank

Scott Hawkins Chief Financial Officer Technology Credit Corp.

Hawkins says banks are also looking for long-term customers. Installers who ask for loans for one-off projects will be seen as less reliable than those with multi-project portfolios.

“Banks want customer relationships with multiple lending/fee generation opportunities,” he says. “Therefore, they want to finance solar projects to existing customers or to new customers within their geographical footprint, where the solar financing will lead to other business.”

Common Objections Cowherd says the most common objection from other banks is they don’t have an appropriate long-term financing product that solar installations need.

Instead, they look at solar installations as an equipment loan, the terms of which most often range from 5 to 7 years.

“You don’t get 20-year amortization or term with equipment, which is why First Green Bank came up with its solar-specific loan program,” he adds.

Typically, local banks will require financial packages from borrowers including current owners’ financial statements, three years of tax returns for both the installer and the business, and current interim financials for the business.

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Tony Clifford CEO Standard Solar

Mike McGuire Co-founder Wiser Capital

Hawkins says small commercial projects, to a large degree, are seen by banks as the worst of both worlds. Commercial projects often don’t have the proper size to attract institutional investors, but can’t scale easily in the aggregate like residential programs.

“The ‘take it or leave it’ contract approach of the residential market does not work in the small commercial market because most customers will leave it,” he says. “Banks are typically not staffed to put this much time and effort into executing individual transactions of this size. As a result, most of these transactions are financed through brokers who do all the heavy lifting, which slows the approval process considerably.” SPW

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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INVERTER INSIDER

Inverter Considerations For Landfill Solar Projects

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nce a landfill has served its purpose, it is formally capped and then, too often, becomes a vacant lot with few development options. Recently, investors and developers have begun to see the potential in these sites for solar projects.

Developing a solar project on a landfill, however, poses a new set of challenges for system designers. Beneath the surface, landfills can produce flammable gas as part of the decomposition process. Most landfills are aged to the point where the excess gas is minimal, but there is always a presence of gas and developers must be mindful of this fact in their system designs. To prevent the contents beneath the surface from contaminating the

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surrounding environment, the landfill cap cannot be penetrated. This makes racking and wire management difficult, as a typical groundmount solar project would drive foundation posts deep into the soil. Similarly, the landfill cap cannot support heavy weight over a small area. Heavy, dense system design elements, like transformers and concrete foundations, require careful application. Finally, the landfill cap cannot be graded, so the PV system must follow the existing contours of the land.

These complex factors have a major impact on inverter selection. The inverter is the interconnection between the array and the grid, and the type of inverter used will be critical for success in landfill projects. Mechanical

construction constraints, as well as the electrical system design, may dictate which type to use.

As manufacturers advance inverter designs that offer greater flexibility and higher system performance, landfill solar projects will become more attractive and make good use of otherwise inoperative land. -Efrem Tagliamonte, Advanced Energy.

For more articles and podcasts on landfill solar, visit www. solarpowerworldonline.com SPW

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INVERTER INSIDER

A 3-MW SOLAR ARRAY ON A CAPPED LANDFILL MAKES SCITUATE, MASS., THE FIRST TOWN IN THE COMMONWEALTH TO BE 100% POWERED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY. PHOTO: JERRY HOLMES

ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES OF STRING AND CENTRAL INVERTERS IN LANDFILL INSTALLATIONS

String Inverter

Central Inverter

Advantages

Challenges

Prefabricated skids comprise one to four inverters, in blocks up to 2 MW AC, with associated balance-of-system (BoS) components.

• Pre-engineered packages include all accessories to minimize on-site construction.

• Fewer AC blocks are required.

• Smaller inverters can be used to offer multiple MPP inputs and accommodate varying terrain contour.

Several individual inverters are mounted and installed above grade.

• Smaller and lighter inverters eliminate • A greater number of inverter units increases the need for a heavy foundation.

SCADA-related wiring and complicates bal• Construction of the inverter, racking ance of system. and DC collection system is simplified.

• Inverters may be installed on the cap, within the array.

• The smaller power units offer granular MPP trackers.

• There is greater flexibility to overcome terrain and shade row challenges.

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• Skids are typically located off or at the edge of the cap where weight may be a concern.

• The configuration requires additional DC balance of system equipment and cost.

• Above-grade wire management requires transition equipment from the field to the inverter, which is typically bottom fed.

• Wire penetrations must be well sealed to prevent a buildup of explosive gases inside the inverter compartment.

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INVERTER INNOVATIONS Inverters are pushing the limits of traditional architectures as solar technology gets more sophisticated. Here are a few examples of recent models that don’t fit the traditional mold.

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Marrying String Inverters And MLPEs The Fronius FE inverter line for residential and commercial applications leverages the strengths of string inverters with module-level power electronics, integrated communications and monitoring and analytics.

For example, Tigo Energy’s technology was recently integrated inside the Fronius FE line. The inverters include a Cloud Connect technology inside that can pair seamlessly with smart modules from Tigo Energy’s existing PV module partners to create an endto-end solution with no extra boxes.

The manufacturers say this integrated product reduces the cost and labor previously required for the stand-alone solution. Installers can use the inverter with smart module equipment without having to procure, manage or install any extra boxes.

“Our decision to partner with Tigo Energy is a result of strong market demand for our collaboration and the industry’s push toward module-level power electronics,” says Thomas Enzendorfer, director of Solar Energy, Fronius USA. “We believe that this strategy will provide enhanced safety, reduced cost of ownership and the most bankable solution for customers by providing both module and inverter control onto a single platform.”

“This is the strongest validation yet of our open-architecture approach to the module-level power electronics space,” says Zvi Alon, CEO of Tigo Energy. “Our platform enables module and inverter manufacturers to collaborate at unprecedented levels and drive new functionality not available before.”

Microinverters In Solar Kits Next Generation Energy is now using APS YC500 microinverters in its preengineered kits and custom solar solutions. NGE says the inverter’s ability to offer 500 W and a maximum output at 95.5% peak efficiency makes it ideal for its integrated solar products.

The NGE integrated PV Solution Kits also include top-tier PV modules and fully flashed racking by Zilla.

NGE also distributes APS microinverter products as stand-alone units for grid-tied and off-grid residential and commercial solar applications.

“We are constantly seeking out new and innovative ways to extract the highest levels of power yield from the PV cells in our ready-to-go solar module systems,” says Bill Beedon, marketing and business development manager for NGE.

www.solarpowerworldonline.com

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INVERTER INSIDER

Micro-Parallel Inverter Helps Reduce Installation Expense Technology Research Corp., a subsidiary of Coleman Cable, has designed and developed a new class of inverter, which it calls the Smart Phase Micro-Parallel Inverter. These inverters mount to either the solar panels or frame, and are designed to ease installation, diagnostics and maintenance.

A micro-parallel inverter has the safety and data of an ac microinverter with the installation convenience and placement flexibility of a dc string inverter.

Inverter performance, health and status are relayed by power-line communication to an energy and monitoring controller, which updates a self-launching website for remote viewing and data extraction.

The data resolution is sufficient to trace

performance and faults to individual panels, inverters and modules. The architecture has four independent channels per inverter. The inverter remains operational with as few as one solar

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panel and one inverter channel functional. The software architecture allows remotely updating the inverter’s firmware and the controller software. SPW

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DON’T LET

ISSUES CREEP UP ON YOUR PROJECTS John Van Winkle, a senior member of the engineering department at mounting manufacturer Schletter, recently discussed top O&M tips for solar mounting systems, both on rooftops and the ground, during a Solar Power World webinar. We have outlined his points on the following pages. While this is not a complete list of checks necessary to ensure the long-term success of solar projects, it is a sampling of information provided during the webinar, available on the Solar Power World website, and a good starting point for O&M teams.

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RACKING & MOUNTING

Rooftops SEISMIC EVENTS. If there’s been an earthquake, or even a tremor, technicians should immediately check rooftop solar arrays for any sign of movement. A displaced system can transfer loads on the rooftop, perhaps stressing the underlying support.

Moved systems can also stress or overload wires and other components.

WATER POOLING. Solar systems can place substantial weight in a concentrated point on a roof, and that can cause an indent in roofing over time – a place for water to pool. Any time water pools around metallic components, rubber support pads or concrete blocks, action is necessary. These products are not designed to be submerged in water for extended periods and could prematurely corrode.

COPPER VS. ALUMINUM. Most rooftop systems are comprised of aluminum parts. If copper wire touches aluminum, technicians will find corroded components and failed connections. Corrosion can also disconnect the equipment ground.

FIRE HAZARDS. Any time a change or modification to a system is made, it is potentially negating the installed fire rating of the system. It's important to pay attention to ratings when performing maintenance or repairing components.

DEBRIS. As a system ages, debris will gather under the racking. Birds will nest under it, too. This is a fire hazard. Debris can also lead to corrosion. Pest droppings, plant debris and organic matter will prematurely degrade aluminum and steel components. Debris will also lead to water ponding on the roof, preventing water from flowing underneath a racking system.

Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com

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RACKING & MOUNTING

Rooftop

The Ground LONG-TERM CORROSION. Technicians should look for any signs of long-term water stagnation around the support system. Also keep an eye out for vegetation or pest infestations underneath the system that are either entangling it or causing debris to pile up on any metallic or electrical component. Debris will degrade and increase the rate of corrosion on a system.

Debris under a roof-mounted array can be a fire hazard and nesting place for rodents.

EXPOSED WIRES. Loose or exposed wires routed along the length of a racking system can cause an electrical short. They are also vulnerable to rodents.

Ground

SETTLING. Improperly compacted soil can lead to ground movement, or settling, and can stress the structure of a solar array. After a heavy rain, or a couple years of operation, technicians may notice settling around conduit lines going up posts or around the foundations themselves. Settling can be addressed by supporting the settled area with fill and properly compacting it.

PONDING. Often due to the improper grading of a project site, saturated soil will corrode steel, even with galvanized coating, much more rapidly than dry soil. As often happens in the industry, if another project is being installed adjacent to an existing one, it’s important to ensure no additional water is flowing to the new project site. SPW

A heavy rain, or time, can reveal improperly compacted soil under a ground-mounted array.

»»»

Get O&M Tips For Panels And Inverters, Too! These operations-and-maintenance tips come from the Solar Power World webinar, “21 O&M Tips For Commercial Solar Projects,” which featured experts from JA Solar, SMA America and Schletter. View the webinar on-demand and learn how to perform O&M best practices here:

www.tinyurl.com/MaintenanceWebinar

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PANEL POINTS

BY SAM TSOU SPECIAL TO SOLAR POWER WORLD

PANEL QUALITY & RELIABILITY: BEYOND TESTING BASICS Points to consider when screening changes to a few key module subcomponents

W

hether or not a solar panel manufacturer will exist in the long term is largely dependent on its ability to incorporate product changes in a timely manner without compromising quality.

Lesser quality materials may result in failures in the field. Considering that module materials will remain fixed in production for less than two years (and often much less), how are good material changes differentiated from the bad?

This may seem simple, since the IEC publishes minimum design qualification and safety tests (the socalled “IEC retest guidelines”) that must be passed to incorporate a change into an already certified product.

But passing only boilerplate tests can leave the product’s reliability in question. Enhanced test methods should be used to identify materials worthy of assimilation into the product bill of materials. The following provides a summary of additional points to consider when screening changes to a few key module subcomponents.

Solar Cell One of the most decisive factors for quality and performance of solar modules is the solar cell. Testing screens for solder-joint reliability, robustness of cell metallization to corrosion, hotspot failures from localized shunts, persistently elevated cell temperatures from reduced active area cells, high-system, voltage-induced degradation (PID) and cosmetic defects.

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PANEL POINTS

6 QUALITY CELL TESTING POINTS THAT GO BEYOND THE IEC RETEST GUIDELINES

1 Your Partner for the Solar and Flat Panel Industry

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3

Extended thermal cycling performance for metallization chemistry or solder pad geometry/area changes (<5% Pmp degradation at 400 cycles) Metallization sensitivity to acetic acid formation within ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) — changes to silver paste formulation and sintering conditions can result in dramatic changes to acetic acid corrosion sensitivity Limits on shunt resistance (Rsh) and reverse current leakage (Irev) at maximum substring operating voltage during cell production—proper limits prevent localized hotspots and changes to cell process, such as new junction diffusion processes, selective emitter structures or changes in junction isolation techniques require re-evaluation of Rsh and Irev limitations

4

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Changes to wafering method, wafer thickness or solderpad geometry can potentially increase cell crack frequency.

Initially, non-isolated cracks become isolated after a short field deployment due to diurnal thermal cycles. Isolating cracks reduce cell area which, in turn, reduces cell current and results in a permanent hot cell condition.

PID resistance of cells spanning the entire antireflection coating process variance—in the typical Si solar cell, the SiN:H ARC properties heavily influence PID resistance of the solar cell. Therefore, it’s critical that careful evaluation ensures the entire process provides adequate PID resistance.

Snail trail formation resistance of different cell, EVA and backsheet combinations

For more information: Call: 1-800-Go-Festo 1-800-463-3786 www.festo.com/us/solar

Global manufacturer of process control and factory automation solutions

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NES

PANEL POINTS

EVA Encapsulation EVA remains the most commonly used encapsulant in PV module production. EVA bonds all the material layers into a uniform laminate, provides an important electrical barrier to leakage current through the glass side of the module, and allows high light transmission into the solar cell.

Testing ensures that new encapsulants will maintain or improve upon module PID resistance; withstand longterm exposure to sun and moisture without discoloration, delaminating or loss of optical transmission; and have low acetic-acid-formation rates, which prevent cell metallization corrosion.

Since most encapsulants will pass the basic IEC, CSA and UL testing requirements, enhanced material screening methods also offer a graduated scale for choosing among newly available materials.

Backsheet The majority of PV modules produced today still employ a glass/encapsulant/backsheet structure. The backsheet protects against electric shock and electrical faults by providing a mechanically robust, high-dielectric barrier over the back surface of the panel.

Most backsheets derive their electrical properties from a layer of polyester (PET) at their core, 100 μm to 300 μm thick. This core is typically surrounded with an outside layer designed to protect the PET core from UV light degradation and an interior layer that promotes adhesion between the backsheet and EVA encapsulant.

In addition to electrical insulation, typical backsheets have a much lower water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) compared to EVA. This slows the permeation of moisture into the panel, although the package remains breathable

6 DETERMINING FACTORS FOR DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN ROBUST AND POOR EVA FORMULATIONS

1 2 3 4 5 6

Leakage current mapping as a function of temperature, humidity and applied voltage—all things being equal, higher leakage currents will accelerate certain degradation mechanisms, such as PID and electrochemical corrosion Rate of yellowing versus UV exposure dose and damp heat exposure time Acetic acid formation rate versus damp heat exposure time—an EVA with more rapid acetic acid formation will present a harsher environment for the solar cell over the long term because of a slow corrosion of the silver gridlines EVA 180° T-peel test adhesion strength to glass, backsheet and solar cell following UV and humidity/freeze exposures—it’s not uncommon for initial adhesion levels of 150 N/cm to drop to 20 N/cm or less following extensive environmental and UV exposures Adhesive strength below 20 N/cm at the EVA/ glass or EVA/backsheet interface may result in delamination in areas of high strain, such as shear stress imparted to the backsheet by expansion/contraction of the aluminum frame.

Optical transmission versus UV and humidity exposures

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3 TEST PROCEDURES FOR SCREENING BACKSHEET MATERIALS

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Extended UV exposure from both the front and backside of the panel to a cumulative dose of 300 kWh and 200 kWh, respectively. Extreme yellowing and/ or a loss of backsheet/EVA adhesion on glass-side UV exposed samples are signs of improper EVA/backsheet combinations. Some high UV transmission EVA types can allow excessive UV transmission to the backsheet layer if proper precautions are not taken. Degradation of the weather-exposed side of the backsheet may be evidenced by a loss of gloss or surface chalking on the backside of UVexposed samples.

Damp heat exposure at 85° C and 85% RH for 1000 hrs as a check for excessive hydrolysis and backsheet yellowing Strength testing of frame and j-box adhesives to the backsheet before and after damp heat exposure—adhesives with excellent bonds to one backsheet can utterly fail to adhere with another

6 EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR J-BOX SCREENING

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Bypass diode thermal runaway testing— standard bypass diode thermal testing establishes the diode maximum expected operating temperature, but it does not verify bypass diode functionality/rectification in reverse bias at this temperature. Thermal runaway testing address this shortfall by switching the diode, heated from forward operation, immediately back into reverse-bias operation to verify thermal runaway does not occur as a result of the elevated leakage current at high temperature. Many commercially available junction boxes’ diodes selfdestruct from thermal runaway on hot, high-irradiance days.

5 6

Extended Thermal Cycling to 400 cycles ensures wire seals and potting compounds maintain resistance to moisture penetration. It is not uncommon for wire nuts to become less than finger tight or for potting compounds to lose adhesion following TC400. Both conditions result in capillary channels that wick water into exposed conductors of the junction box.

Damp heat for 1000 hours

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Extended UV exposure to 200 kWh following verification of connector operation without brittle failure of plastic components and impact resistance of lid J-box plastic adhesion strength screening for all j-box adhesives in use Measurement and comparison of total resistive power loss of post TC400 and DH1000 j-boxes to as-received total resistive power loss— total power loss should be further subdivided into loss at laminate/box connection, cable crimps along cables and across connectors to determine which, if any, connection points are degrading following environmental test exposure. Crimp or spring connections warrant special attention.

resulting in daily and seasonal variation in module moisture levels.

Hydrolysis degradation and UVinduced degradation of PET result in easily measured reductions in backsheet ductility, yellow index and adhesion strength. As such, retained elongation and tensile strength of backsheet and backsheet/EVA adhesion strength are key figures of merits used to determine backsheet acceptability.

High-performance backsheets will have retained mechanical properties ≥70% of pre-exposed values and ΔY.I. ≤5.

In practice, excessive loss of ductility from UV and humidity exposure results in brittle fracture of the backsheet under subsequent thermal cycling or mechanical-loading conditions. These cracks completely compromise the dielectric strength of the backsheet, resulting in an unsafe panel that presents a shock hazard, may be prone to ground faults and is susceptible to excessive water transmission to the cells through the backsheet cracks.

Junction Box The junction box provides a strain-relieved transition from the interior laminate conductors to flexible leads terminated with quick connectors. The junction box also houses bypass diodes or, with increasing frequency, more advanced safety/energy conversion electronics.

Conclusion The above examples of solar cell, EVA, backsheet and junction box supplemental testing requirements are intended only as a small indication of the months of testing required to differentiate among various material options. However, there is no magic test protocol to identify the correct material choice.

Diligence, hard work and continual incorporation of teachings from field failures into our testing protocols results in a product continually evolving to higher quality for our customers. SPW Sam Tsou is senior vice president and CFO at Motech Industries.

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LEADERSHIP [ LEA DERSHIP

IN

SOL AR

E NE RGY]

2014

CONGRATULATIONS! The Solar Power World

C OM P ON E N T S: Helical

team is pleased to announce the winners of our third annual

C ON SU LT IN G:

Envect

DIST R IBU T OR S:

SimpleRay

E N C LOSU R E S:

Allied Moulded Products, Inc.

IN STALL AT ION :

Solect

IN VE R T E R S:

SMA America

M E ASU R E M E N T:

Lufft USA

Leadership In Solar Program. Since we announced the nominees in our January issue and online, our user community has cast their votes on who they feel best exemplifies solar leadership in nine categories. We are

PAN E L / C OLLE CT OR Hanwha M AN U FACT U R IN G:

pleased to celebrate the winners here.

R AC K IN G & M OU N T IN G:

RBI Solar

Thank you for your innovation.

Your accomplishments are what drive gigawatts and create jobs.

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[AD INDEX]

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Follow the whole team on twitter @SolarPowerWorld SALES VP Sales

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