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Australian PV power station completed
NEWS otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Compared to high-powered wind generators, they offer easy installation and maintenance, minimum aesthetic impact and are totally integrable into the environment. The main manufacturers and most users of this technology are current found in the US, but things are beginning to move in Spain and in the rest of Europe. The micro-wind generator was developed by I. Urrutikoetxea, J.R. Zugadi and I.L. Carrascosa from Fatronik’s renewable energies team. For more information on the Fatronik Technological Centre, go to: www.fatronik.com
Solara PV module using advanced composites California-based Solara Energy has developed a new PV module for use in the marine and recreational vehicle markets, with future products planned to address the commercial sector. The module incorporates advanced composite materials, what the company claims is the highest-efficiency PV cell available, and advanced polymers to yield a highly durable, lightweight module that can endure the rigors of marine applications. Solara has applied for a patent on the new module, because of its materials engineering and design innovation. The module, dubbed the ‘MP’ Series, will be available from early 2004, with an initial capacity of approximately 100 W. A prototype of the module was shown at the IBEX show in Miami, Florida. The MP100 module’s form factor is 42 × 22 × 0.125 inches (1067 × 559 × 3.2 mm), and it weighs less than 5 lb (2.3 kg). Modules can be easily mounted and shaped to match the form of what they are attached to. This allows the OEM and end customer to build larger arrays on vessels and coaches, where previously it would have been difficult or impossible to do so. The lightweight design and unique synthetic surface eliminates the potential of broken glass – which can affect traditional heavy and inflexible PV modules – while maintaining very high efficiency and durability. For OEM applications, modules can be configured into arrays and integrated into the deck surface. Once installed, they can be sealed into the deck. ‘We became involved last year with solo circumnavigation yacht racing, when we began working with three teams that were racing in the Around Alone race,’ says Mark Weiss, president of Solara Energy. ‘We had 40 of our stainless steel-backed modules show remarkable success during that race. However, afterward, skippers were seeking a more competitive 8
Photovoltaics Bulletin
advantage, and wanted to further reduce the weight of the modules while increasing their efficiency.’ The company took this as an opportunity to address a market that has so far been widely overlooked, because of the difficulties associated with durability in marine environments. Development work resulted in a 50% reduction in weight and a 50% increase in efficiency. Following the initial launch of the marinegrade module, Solara will develop a lightweight framed module for commercial and residential markets. These modules will have capacities in the 200 W range and will weigh less than 20 lb (9 kg), compared to current products that weigh nearly 40 lb (18 kg). In addition, a building tile will be developed for flat-roof installations, eliminate the need for roof penetrations while adding roof protection and an insulating layer on the building. For more information on Solara Energy Inc, go to: www.solaraenergy.com
NJ utility supporting renewables New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) has announced two initiatives to support the state’s clean energy goals and help build the market for renewable energy technologies. The company has installed a PV cell that powers the spotlight on the flag at the William L. Maude Service Center in Wall. It will also be the first energy utility in the state to implement a new option allowing customers to make voluntary contributions to the New Jersey Clean Energy Program through their bill. Through the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, rebates are available for up to 60% of the cost of eligible renewable energy systems, including PV, small wind, sustainable biomass technology or fuel cells using a renewable fuel source. The PV system at the Maude Service Center will produce approximately 9% of the facility’s electricity. NJNG – the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources – will receive a rebate of $106 500 from the program for its PV system, which cost $195 100. ‘Our commitment to our communities includes working to protect our environment and preserve our natural resources,’ says Laurence M. Downes, chairman/CEO of NJNG. ‘It is fundamental to our business to think green, by promoting energy conservation and renewable energy and through efforts to protect our environment such as recycling and neighborhood enhancement projects.’
The state has established a goal to have 20% of its energy from renewable energy sources by 2020. The PV system installed at the Maude Service Center uses rooftop panels to convert renewable solar energy into electricity. It will generate approximately 25 800 kWh each year for the facility, saving an estimated $2800 in annual electricity expenses. The system will also eliminate about 43 300 lb (19 700 kg) of CO2 emissions annually that would have been produced if the electricity were purchased from the local utility. NJNG is also introducing a new BPU initiative to offer customers the option to contribute to the New Jersey Clean Energy Program through their natural gas bill. This statewide program, which was launched in 2001, promotes energy-efficient equipment, energysaving practices and the use of renewable energy sources. The program’s aim is to help preserve natural resources and reduce the need to add conventional power plants, while improving the overall reliability of the power grid. ‘The state’s voluntary contribution program offers an additional avenue for customers to help support the environment,’ explains NJNG’s Downes. ‘Developing innovative ways to implement the state’s plans for protecting the environment is the responsibility of all New Jersey’s utilities. To further advance this important new initiative, NJNG will match customer contributions with 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to $50 000.’ For more information on New Jersey Natural Gas, go to: www.njng.com For more information on the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, go to: www.njcleanenergy.com
Australian PV power station completed The final phase in a multi-million-dollar solar power project in Australia’s Northern Territory has been completed, according to the Australian newspaper, the Northern Territory News. The project’s first phase, a A$900 000 (US$655 000), 800-panel, 56 kW power station at the remote Aboriginal community of Bulman, 350 km (220 miles) southeast of Darwin, was finished last year. The second phase is a A$2.9m (US$2.1m) flat plate PV power station, with 1608 panels and a capacity of 241 kW. Kim Wood, managing director of regional utility Power and Water Corporation, said the project would lower diesel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and the cost of power generation. The pilot project could also lead to further expansion into other remote regions.
December 2003
Solara PV module using advanced composites California-based Solara Energy has developed a new PV module for use in the marine and recreational vehicle markets, with future products planned to address the commercial sector. The module incorporates advanced composite materials, what the company claims is the highest-efficiency PV cell available, and advanced polymers to yield a highly durable, lightweight module that can endure the rigors of marine applications. Solara has applied for a patent on the new module, because of its materials engineering and design innovation. The module, dubbed the ‘MP’ Series, will be available from early 2004, with an initial capacity of approximately 100 W. A prototype of the module was shown at the IBEX show in Miami, Florida. The MP100 module’s form factor is 42 × 22 × 0.125 inches (1067 × 559 × 3.2 mm), and it weighs less than 5 lb (2.3 kg). Modules can be easily mounted and shaped to match the form of what they are attached to. This allows the OEM and end customer to build larger arrays on vessels and coaches, where previously it would have been difficult or impossible to do so. The lightweight design and unique synthetic surface eliminates the potential of broken glass – which can affect traditional heavy and inflexible PV modules – while maintaining very high efficiency and durability. For OEM applications, modules can be configured into arrays and integrated into the deck surface. Once installed, they can be sealed into the deck. ‘We became involved last year with solo circumnavigation yacht racing, when we began working with three teams that were racing in the Around Alone race,’ says Mark Weiss, president of Solara Energy. ‘We had 40 of our stainless steel-backed modules show remarkable success during that race. However, afterward, skippers were seeking a more competitive 8
Photovoltaics Bulletin
advantage, and wanted to further reduce the weight of the modules while increasing their efficiency.’ The company took this as an opportunity to address a market that has so far been widely overlooked, because of the difficulties associated with durability in marine environments. Development work resulted in a 50% reduction in weight and a 50% increase in efficiency. Following the initial launch of the marinegrade module, Solara will develop a lightweight framed module for commercial and residential markets. These modules will have capacities in the 200 W range and will weigh less than 20 lb (9 kg), compared to current products that weigh nearly 40 lb (18 kg). In addition, a building tile will be developed for flat-roof installations, eliminate the need for roof penetrations while adding roof protection and an insulating layer on the building. For more information on Solara Energy Inc, go to: www.solaraenergy.com
NJ utility supporting renewables New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) has announced two initiatives to support the state’s clean energy goals and help build the market for renewable energy technologies. The company has installed a PV cell that powers the spotlight on the flag at the William L. Maude Service Center in Wall. It will also be the first energy utility in the state to implement a new option allowing customers to make voluntary contributions to the New Jersey Clean Energy Program through their bill. Through the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, rebates are available for up to 60% of the cost of eligible renewable energy systems, including PV, small wind, sustainable biomass technology or fuel cells using a renewable fuel source. The PV system at the Maude Service Center will produce approximately 9% of the facility’s electricity. NJNG – the principal subsidiary of New Jersey Resources – will receive a rebate of $106 500 from the program for its PV system, which cost $195 100. ‘Our commitment to our communities includes working to protect our environment and preserve our natural resources,’ says Laurence M. Downes, chairman/CEO of NJNG. ‘It is fundamental to our business to think green, by promoting energy conservation and renewable energy and through efforts to protect our environment such as recycling and neighborhood enhancement projects.’
The state has established a goal to have 20% of its energy from renewable energy sources by 2020. The PV system installed at the Maude Service Center uses rooftop panels to convert renewable solar energy into electricity. It will generate approximately 25 800 kWh each year for the facility, saving an estimated $2800 in annual electricity expenses. The system will also eliminate about 43 300 lb (19 700 kg) of CO2 emissions annually that would have been produced if the electricity were purchased from the local utility. NJNG is also introducing a new BPU initiative to offer customers the option to contribute to the New Jersey Clean Energy Program through their natural gas bill. This statewide program, which was launched in 2001, promotes energy-efficient equipment, energysaving practices and the use of renewable energy sources. The program’s aim is to help preserve natural resources and reduce the need to add conventional power plants, while improving the overall reliability of the power grid. ‘The state’s voluntary contribution program offers an additional avenue for customers to help support the environment,’ explains NJNG’s Downes. ‘Developing innovative ways to implement the state’s plans for protecting the environment is the responsibility of all New Jersey’s utilities. To further advance this important new initiative, NJNG will match customer contributions with 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to $50 000.’ For more information on New Jersey Natural Gas, go to: www.njng.com For more information on the New Jersey Clean Energy Program, go to: www.njcleanenergy.com
Australian PV power station completed The final phase in a multi-million-dollar solar power project in Australia’s Northern Territory has been completed, according to the Australian newspaper, the Northern Territory News. The project’s first phase, a A$900 000 (US$655 000), 800-panel, 56 kW power station at the remote Aboriginal community of Bulman, 350 km (220 miles) southeast of Darwin, was finished last year. The second phase is a A$2.9m (US$2.1m) flat plate PV power station, with 1608 panels and a capacity of 241 kW. Kim Wood, managing director of regional utility Power and Water Corporation, said the project would lower diesel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and the cost of power generation. The pilot project could also lead to further expansion into other remote regions.
December 2003