north american clean energy - january february 2010
DESCRIPTION
Copenhagen and New Renewable Energy Investment in North America, Electrical Construction of a Wind Farm, Wind Turbine Design: Lighting & electrical service, Gulf Coast Wind Farm Construction: The challenges of building the Peñascal II Wind Project, Raising the Bar on Performance: Product improvements in the wind power industry, Transmission & Siting Issues in the US, Windpower: New products, Successful Construction & Maintenance in the Windpower Industry, SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE 2010, Geothermal From the Ground Up: Realizing the potential of geothermal power, Geothermal Energy Investment: A risky bridge to cross?, Geothermal Products & News, Generating Green Power from the Sea, Hydro and Marine energy: Products & News, Algae Enhancing the Alternative Energy Market, BioPower: Products & News, Q&A: Where Clean Technology is HeadedTRANSCRIPT
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1
Wind Turbine Construction+ lighting & electrical designThe Potential ofGeothermal PowerCopenhagen & Renewable Energy Investments
2010SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE
PLUS Show in Print features…• RETECH 2010: Renewable Energy Technology Conference & Exhibition
• Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo• GLOBE 2010
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4 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
contents
Wind energy 10
RETECH 2010Show in Print 23
SOLAR BUYERSGUIDE 2010 25
Geothermal energy 57
Renewable EnergyWorld Conference& Expo Showin Print 61
Hydro and Marineenergy 64
BioPower 66
GLOBE 2010Show in Print 70
Q&A 72
Calendar 74
departments
06 News Bites
08 Copenhagen and New Renewable Energy Investment in North America
10 Electrical Construction of a Wind Farm
12 Wind Turbine Design: Lighting & electrical service
14 Gulf Coast Wind Farm Construction: The challenges of building the Peñascal II Wind Project
16 Raising the Bar on Performance: Product improvements in the wind power industry
18 Transmission & Siting Issuesin the US
20 Windpower: New products
22 Successful Construction & Maintenance in the Windpower Industry
25 SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE 2010
57 Geothermal From the Ground Up: Realizing the potential of geothermal power
59 Geothermal Energy Investment: A risky bridge to cross?
60 Geothermal Products & News
64 Generating Green Power from the Sea
65 Hydro and Marine energy: Products & News
66 Algae Enhancing the Alternative Energy Market
68 BioPower: Products & News
72 Q&A: Where Clean Technology is Headed
January / February 2010Volume 4, Number 1
EDITOR
Michelle [email protected]
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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1
Wind Turbine Construction+ lighting & electrical designThe Potential ofGeothermal PowerCopenhagen & Renewable Energy Investments
2010SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE
PLUS Show in Print features…• RETECH 2010: Renewable Energy Technology Conference & Exhibition
• Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo• GLOBE 2010
SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE
2010
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6 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
It would seem 2010 is off to an interesting if not promising start—at least in the realm of renewable energy. With stories of Copenhagen (the United Nations Climate Change conference; http://en.cop15.dk) and predictions for the year ahead still go-ing strong, there appears to be a mix of concern and hope…perhaps, both an ingredient for any constructive future.
At the end of ’09, Copenhagen brought together heads of state, government offi cials, scientists, environmental activists and organi-
zations, as well as related businesses and ordinary citizens, to discuss and debate the future of carbon emissions and the earth. As a result, all countries must now accept a transparent system for monitoring emissions, industrial ones must list their individual emissions reduc-tions targets, and wealthy nations will establish a fund to help poor and vulnerable nations adapt to climate change. Granted, neither these nor other such agreements made at the con-ference are legally binding. And, an international agreement that addressed climate change, which was expected, or at least sought after by so many, was very noticeably absent. But, even though Copenhagen did not offer a global solution, “it opened the door for signatory states to pursue climate change initiatives around broad principles,” according to Ed Feo in his ar-ticle on renewable energy investments. Check out page 8 of this issue.
Speaking of investments, the US government has begun the year by investing in the econ-omy and clean-tech jobs. In early January, President Obama awarded $2.3 billion in Recovery Act Advanced Energy Manufacturing Tax Credits for clean energy manufacturing projects across the country. One hundred eighty three projects in 43 states will create tens of thousands
of high-quality clean energy jobs and the domestic manufacturing of advanced clean energy technologies including solar, wind, and effi ciency and energy management technologies. Ac-cording to the US Department of Energy, these tax credits are focused on putting Americans back to work by building a robust domestic manufacturing capacity to supply clean and renew-able energy projects. These credits are also an important step towards meeting the President’s goal of doubling the amount of renewable energy the country uses in the next three years, with wind turbines and solar panels built in the US (http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news).
Seems we have good timing…our last issue of North American Clean Energy brought read-ers the 2010 Wind Buyers Guide and this issue brings our 2010 Solar Buyers Guide with plenty of related products and services for those in the industry (pages 25 to 56).
So, where exactly does that leave us for 2010? Well, according to Cleantech Group, a glo-bal market research company that offers an annual “top ten” list of clean energy technology predictions (see below for the full list), there will be an end to the talks surrounding changes needed in the clean-tech industry, with actual steps taken toward reconstruction (hmmm….is this possible after Copenhagen?). Other forecasts include policy changes to accelerate energy effi ciency markets, consolidation in congested clean-tech sectors, an increase in global ven-ture investment and private equity compared to 2009. Guess we’ll have to wait and see.
In the meantime, don’t miss our new Q&A piece with the co-founder of Cleantech Group (page 72), as well as the discussion on transmission and siting in the US (page 18), and a look at the latest and greatest biofuel/biomass alternative to hit the market—algae (page 66).
Happy New Year & thanks for reading! Michelle Froese
editor’s note
news bites
Pho
to b
y M
ichelle
Mo
ore
Cooper Power Systems, a division of Cooper Industries plc, is helping homeowners become better consumers of electrical power with the in-troduction of the company’s new, in-home, peak load indicator. The wall outlet-sized, plug-in indicator, developed in cooperation with Delaware Electric Cooperative, notifi es consumers when a peak power use period is approaching or underway.
The indicator contains a series of LED lights to inform users of ei-ther approaching or occurring peak power use periods, advising them to
reduce consumption. Consumers are informed that reduced energy use during peak power periods could have a signifi cant impact on both the power delivery system and on the customer’s monthly electric bill. Using the Cooper Power Systems Yukon Advanced Energy Services Platform, the in-home indicator receives hourly signals from the utility to confi rm that continuous communication is taking place.Cooper Power Systems | www.cooperpower.com
Ten predictions for 2010Continuing an annual tradition, the Cleantech Group issued ten predictions for clean technology markets in 2010. The year’s forecast refl ects a transformative year of reformation around sustainability principles and predicts that the clean economy will go mainstream from every angle including policy, capital, and markets.
1. Private capital growth recovers, record fund year;2. Clean economies become the new space race;3. Electric cars take the back seat to smart mobility;4. Resource constraints beyond carbon rise to the fore;5. Commodity tradeoff debates intensify;6. Energy effi ciency, driven by ICT, eclipses solar;7. Marketing suddenly matters;8. Buffet leads the super rich into cleantech;9. Acquisitions and consolidations accelerate; and10. The rise of waste-to-energy, geothermal and aquaculture.
Cleantech Group predicts that 2010 will mark “the end of the beginning for cleantech,” resulting in many countries, cities, and regions competing to become the leading center for innovative tech-nologies, jobs, and wealth creation.
Read the full article and predictions at http://cleantech.com/news/5342/ten-cleantech-predictions-2010.Cleantech Group, LLC | www.cleantech.com
Department of Energy: Final rule on Loan Guarantees On December 7th, 2009, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced the issue of a fi nal rule amending the Department of Energy’s regulations for its Loan Guarantee Program. The revised rule will allow for increased participation in the program by fi nancial institutions and other investors, and enable the support of more innovative energy technologies in the United States.
“This much needed change will provide greater fl exibility to the Loan Guarantee Pro-gram and help us to support more projects at a better value to taxpayers,” said Secretary Chu. “This is part of our commitment to ensuring businesses are able to access the support they need to create jobs and contribute to a clean energy economy.”
Under the rule change, the Loan Guarantee Program will be able to consider fi nancing projects together with other lenders and will be able to provide loan guarantees to projects with multiple participants (who may hold undivided interests in a project). As an example, export credit agencies and other fi nancial institutions will now be able to provide fi nancing to complement Title XVII loans and loan guarantees. This approach will result in lowered risk and potential costs to taxpayers.
The US Department of Energy’s Loan Guarantee Program paves the way for federal sup-port of clean energy projects that use innovative technologies, and is aimed at spurring further investment in these advanced technologies. The Department incorporated feedback from in-dustry and other interested parties in order to maximize the reach and success of the program.
On August 7th, 2009, the Department published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Op-portunity for Comment announcing the effort to change the regulations. A 30-day comment period was extended an additional two weeks in response to public requests. DOE carefully reviewed all of the timely comments on the NOPR from over 2,100 interested parties.Loan Guarantee Program | www.lgprogram.energy.gov
US Department of Energy | www.energy.gov
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8 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Environmental news in December was dominated by the story of COP 15 in Copenhagen. After days of debate over protocol crafting appeared headed to an
indefi nite resolution, a handful of countries initiated a late but fast fi nishing memo-randum of understanding. So, as the Copenhagen meetings disappear in the mist of time, one might ask: what consequence does this meeting have for renewable energy in North America?
The Copenhagen Accord is a non-binding commitment by a number of the major global economies to reduce carbon emissions. Other key provisions include forest pro-tection, transparency on levels of emission, and fi nancial aid of up to $100 billion an-nually for developing countries. In some respects, it is a step backwards from the Kyoto Protocol. On the other hand, the long simmering differences between developed and developing countries have never been fully resolved and, so, a reset of the international debate may be the most appropriate step at this time.
While climate negotiations will continue in Germany and Mexico in 2010, individual countries will continue to pursue their own policies consistent with the Copenhagen Accord. In the case of the US, that will mean a continued process of developing climate policy at the state and federal levels. As federal and state policies continue to evolve, a front running benefi cial effect for clean energy projects can already be seen.
On the federal level, the Senate will re-focus on a climate bill. This past September, Senators Boxer and Kerry introduced S.1733, the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act. Any bill passed by the Senate will need to be reconciled with the Waxman Markey bill passed by the House in the spring. Current expectations are that federal climate change legislation will not be passed until the end of 2010. The failure to reach a full agreement in Copenhagen means the incentive to pass legislation ahead of the in-ternational agreement has vanished. If there is any pressure to move on a federal climate bill, it is from the EPA’s fi nding of endangerment with respect to greenhouse gases un-der the Clean Air Act. The EPA action may be a ploy to spur passage of a federal climate bill—potentially regulated industries prefer legislation in which they have a say over the club of the EPA under the Clean Air Act. But, even under a federal bill, the ultimate regulation of greenhouse gases is years away given the time required to enact legislation and to adopt the implementing regulations.
The slow pace at the federal level leaves the fi eld open for states and regional com-pacts. As one example, California continues to implement AB 32, the Global Warming
Solutions Act of 2006. AB 32 mandates that greenhouse gas emissions in the state be reduced to 1990 levels by 2020. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is directed under AB 32 to develop both discrete early action plans, as well as a broader long-term plan, with regulations to be implemented by 2012.
In September 2007, CARB issued a list of early actions, which included reduction of high carbon content gases in consumer products, electrifi cation of ships in ports, im-proved landfi ll gas control, and a low carbon fuel standard. The more comprehensive scoping plan was fi rst issued in June 2008. The plan includes a cap and trade program for targeted industries, a 33% renewable portfolio standard, installation of 3,000 MW of solar generation capacity, preservation of forests, and expanded use of biomass. The CARB scoping plan also proposes a low carbon fuel standard, regional greenhouse gas emissions reductions for passenger vehicles, high-speed rail systems, and expanded green building practices, among other measures. It is, in short, a comprehensive re-orientation of the California economy toward a low carbon diet.
The AB 32 cap and trade program is directed at a number of key industries, which ac-count for 85% of greenhouse gas emissions. In mid-December, the CARB Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee issued draft recommendations for the proposed cap and trade scheme. The group recommends that allowances be auctioned through a uniform price, single auction process. The allocation of allowances may be warranted to address leakage issues with energy intensive, trade exposed industries. The proceeds of allowance auctions are recommended to be used to mitigate adverse impacts on communities and businesses through either a dividend or reduced taxes. A signifi cant share of the allowance value would also be used for fi nancing of both public and private clean energy investments.
By Ed Feo | Partner, Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy LLP
Ed Feo is a partner in the international law fi rm of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP. He co-chairs the Firm’s project fi nance and energy practice and is a member of the Firm’s Global Executive Committee.
Copenhagen and New Renewable Energy Investment in North America
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9North American Clean Energy
The process of AB 32 implementation highlights the complexity of the shift to a low carbon economy. Transportation, elec-tricity, and major industrial activities are all affected. So too will be building construc-tion, waste disposal, and consumer prod-ucts. California state agencies and private parties have dedicated an enormous amount of time to AB 32 implementation programs. It is mind-numbing to contemplate a com-parable effort carried out on the national or international level.
Climate change regulation, even if not fully enacted into law, is already having positive effects on clean energy investment in at least three respects.
First, are the effects of potential in-creased costs of compliance on fossil fuel plants. The potential requirement for purchasing allowances under cap and trade is affecting the valuation of existing fossil fuel power plants. In one recent transac-tion, we were asked to analyze the potential cost of the Waxman Markey cap and trade regime on a portfolio of fossil plants. Under Waxman Markey, a portion of the allow-ances for the electric sector are allocated to independent generators but, ultimately, the projects will need to purchase allowances. Not surprisingly, the power purchase agree-ment terms did not fully address the ability to pass through change in law costs. The potential effect of Waxman Markey would be a signifi cant increase in operating cost and, therefore, reduction in value of the af-fected plants.
In California, the issue of compliance with AB 32 under power purchase agree-ments is being addressed through a negoti-ated resolution among the state utilities and independent generators. Although the outcome is not yet fi nal, the general ap-proach is to address the impact of compli-ance through an adjustment of the heat rate component of the energy rate calculation. The additional costs will, ultimately, be borne by ratepayers on the theory that the change in law for de-carbonization will in any event end up being refl ected in energy costs. A similar approach will be pursued in connection with any federal cap and trade regime. In the meantime, of course, the un-certainty of how the costs will be imposed and recovered reduces the value of fossil fuel generators. Renewable energy plants would not have the same costs imposed and should be more competitive with fossil fuel plants—in terms of value and power prices.
The second benefi t to clean energy sources is the implementation of demand policies. In California, the expansion of the state renewable portfolio standard to 33% is justifi ed on the basis of climate change. Current state law imposes a 20% renewable portfolio standard, but an Executive Order issued in 2009 has already set in motion the transition to the 33% standard. The ef-fect of the California renewable portfolio standard is that new generation is largely renewable. The fi nancial community loves to fi nance long-term purchase agreements with creditworthy utilities. And, in states
like California, those contracts are largely going to renewable energy projects.
Finally, climate change is pushing government research and development funding to renewables. For example, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 includes funding of programs that will mitigate the use of fossil fuels. When cap and trade is implemented—whether at a state or federal level—funds generated by allowance auctions will support deployment of clean energy technology and projects.
In summary: though Copenhagen did not result in the grand solution on a global basis, it opened the door for signa-
tory states to pursue climate change initiatives around broad principles. In the US, the most relevant activity has been at the state level, with legislation expected at the federal level in 2010. In the meantime, existing energy policies are being recast to have a climate change basis. Developers, utilities, and investors are modifying their behavior in light of possible climate change regulation.
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10 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Often people look across the landscape of a wind farm and are amazed at the size of the turbines and wonder how these giants are constructed. They
might ponder how the electricity is generated in each of the turbines, collectively gathered and distributed across an electrical system to different homes.
Wind farm developers spend considerable time developing their projects. Once they have their project fully permitted and developed, they will proceed with the next step—which is the actual construction of a wind farm. The owner/developer will usually contract directly with manufacturers for the large, long lead time pieces of equipment for a particular project. These items typically consist of the towers, blades, turbines, and transformers.
Construction of a wind farm is predominately completed in one of two methods:1. The owner/developer will contract directly with individual contractors for the
completion of the roads, foundations, collection system, and substation; or, 2. The owner/developer will contract with a large general contractor to provide a
turnkey project. The GC will complete all the work necessary to complete the project.
Electrical construction is one of the most important parts of the wind farm. With the construction of any wind power project, there are key factors to consider when providing for the electrical system:Design and layout of the project. The layout of a project is determined by land leases, terrain, prevailing winds, and any other obstacles that may be present at a particular location.Collection system routing. This is based on the design and layout of a wind farm, as well as on other factors such as the length of runs and the number of turbines on a circuit.Construction process. The construction of a wind farm requires a great deal of coordination with each of the parties involved. The construction process is com-pleted in logical sequence, and one little glitch can cause multiple delays that may affect the completion date set by an owner or developer.Electrical components. The electrical construction of a project is integrally tied to all the other parts of the project, and involves constant coordination and communi-cation with the other parties involved. The electrical contractor will have crews of people working in multiple areas throughout the jobsite, and they will be…
Installing the ground grid work, which is done while working in conjunction with the contractor who is completing the tower foundations. As the foundations are be-ing constructed, the electrical contractor will install the PVC conduits that will be part of the completed foundation. These conduits will be utilized to run power and fi ber optic cable for each wind turbine.
Another crew will complete the work necessary to install the pad mount trans-formers at each wind tower site. This process will involve the excavation for, and the placing of a cement pad and box pad structure for the pad mount transformer to sit on. Yet another crew will work on what is called the “electrical collection sys-tem.” This crew is responsible for the installation of all the electrical lines—from each of the wind towers to the substation—where all the electricity produced will be sent. The installation involves the electrical cables being placed in the ground. The underground installation is performed in one of two ways:1. Trenching: A special machine is required with a rotating digging chain located
on the rear of the machine, and it places the electrical cable in the “trench.” This is a continuous process where the cables are then covered.
2. Plowing: This method uses a large track machine with a blade mounted on the rear of the machine. It rips a trench into the ground. This is also a continuous process and the cables are covered.
There is a crew that follows the collection installation crew to work on all of the terminations that are needed to tie the wind tower to the collection line, so as to send the energy from the wind farm to the destination point within the substation. All of the collection system U/G cables are brought to the main substation where they will be terminated and connected to the utility system. The electrical contrac-tor will provide the construction of the wind farm substation/interconnect, and that team builds or expands the substation/interconnect for the wind farm. This is an
important piece as the substation/inter-connect is the fi nal point of all collec-tion of energy before it is transmitted to the main line.
Energizing the wind farm is an ex-citing part of the entire process. It is one of the last steps in a project, and its completion brings the project full circle. Energizing the wind farm is a process that is very detailed and per-formed in several steps, with great care, to ensure proper performance of all the components of the wind farm project.
Electrical construction is a critical part of a wind farm. Although each wind farm is unique in its size, and has a unique design, the components of the electrical construction stay consistent.
Aevenia, Inc. | www.aevenia.com
Electrical Constructionof a Wind Farm
By Jason Abbott
wind energy
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12 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Most utility or commercial grade wind turbines are constructed using these basic features: a foundation, a multi-sectional steel or concrete tube tower,
a machine-head or nacelle, and a hub (a rotating frame-work with blades attached). Nowadays, hub-height elevations for this class of wind turbines are generally be-tween 55 and 100 meters. Similar to any multi-level building type construction, wind turbine designs must contain certain service elements, as well.
Lighting and electrical service outlet systems are distinctive parts included in most wind turbine tower and nacelle designs. The design focus of these integral electrical systems is to provide safety, accessibility, and functionality during construction, operation, and main-tenance periods. Lighting system designs should assure adequate illumination throughout the tower. More specifi cally, lighting levels in passage areas between platforms and in work areas, as well as on top of platforms, around equipment bays, and control enclosures, should all be considered. These same considerations should be given to the nacelle and hub areas, too. Power outlets for powering tools and equipment should be easily accessible in every work area and provide adequate voltage and current throughout the entire system. These facts are true no matter where wind turbines are installed on the planet.
As the North American wind energy market has grown measurably over the past few years, and continues to grow, a very rich market has presented several OEM’s from outside North America with great opportunity to grow their businesses. This movement, primarily from Europe and the Asia-Pacifi c regions, has presented some challenges for most of these
OEM’s. One challenge these companies face is designing lighting and electrical systems to meet specifi c electrical code and compliance requirements in North America. In many cases, the original internal electrical system designs from these pioneering wind turbine OEM’s, are now, and have been for many years, based upon requirements for installations in compli-ance with various approval and certifying agencies enveloping their preceding geographic markets.
For example, it is clear there are differences in commonly available service power be-tween European, Asian-Pacifi c, and North American wind turbine applications. In North America, the most common service power for tower internal electrical systems is 120VAC, 60 Hz. Whereas, the most common service power in Europe is 220VAC, 50 Hz, and, in the Asia-Pacifi c regions, it varies between 220VAC, 50Hz and 220VAC, 60Hz. Contrast-ing electrical design characteristics of the regions are further evident as different plug and service receptacle confi gurations are found. Required wire and cable sizes may also differ (metric vs. AWG), as will other electrical components and materials suitable to the varying range of supply voltage. Some electrical components and devices are only compatible with their specifi c regions and applications but, fortunately, there are light fi xtures available that will operate on variable power inputs, satisfying the needs of many regions.
Each region has different agency approval requirements that are unrelated to those re-quired in the other regions, and they are not necessarily transferable or harmonized. In North America, Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) certifi cations and list-ings for components, materials, and systems are required to meet National Electrical Codes (NEC). Some of the NRTL’s are Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Electrical Testing Labo-ratories (ETL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), and Factory Mutual (FM). Although there are several other qualifying labs, these represent the most recognized in North Amer-ica. In addition, there are many areas where Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines and requirements need to be considered in the design and installation of the systems.
Agency approval requirements have created many challenges for the European and Asian-Pacifi c OEM’s as they seek to evaluate and/or redesign their lighting and service power sys-tems to meet the North American standards and requirements. The goal of this effort is to be certain that their turbines internal electrical systems will meet or exceed point of delivery electrical code compliance when installed. How do they do it? The answer is not always easy and, in fact, it can be quite complicated. It is not as simple as just changing out some electrical components and materials. Some OEM’s have found out the hard way, resulting in customer dissatisfaction, late turbine commissioning, ultimately costing them hundreds of thousands of dollars to correct.
The OEM’s must determine not only which code compliant electrical components and materials they can use, but how and where they can be installed in the towers and nacelles, too. There are some signifi cant differences between North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacifi c regions in this regard and, in many cases, a complete system redesign is necessary, causing a complete change in electrical components and materials including; rerouting of cables, relocation of light fi xtures, electrical outlet receptacles, and switches. These are very common occurrences with some of these OEM designs when considered for application in North America. Generally, materials and installation methods that are compliant in Europe and the Asian-Pacifi c regions are not compliant with the electrical codes and requirements in North America.
An example of a design and installation issue observed of non-North American OEM lighting and electrical service systems is fi nding the power cables attached to personnel lad-ders. This situation has the potential to create many safety issues: the possibility of a climber damaging the cables while climbing or, worse yet, causing a climber to become tangled in cables, causing injury as a result. Also, consider the potential of electrical shock to the climber caused by contact with exposed conductors of a previously damaged cable.
Another example is when electrical cables are passed through the rungs of an aluminum personnel ladder, effectively using the ladder rung as a conduit to pass cables to the other side of the tower. This cable installation method presents issues in consideration of North American electrical codes and, if a rung was to fracture and subsequently cut a cable, a short circuit could occur with varying results including the potential for personnel injury. North American electrical code compliance is violated again when light fi xture or power receptacle outlet assemblies are mounted directly to personnel ladders. These assemblies, mounted in or near the personnel climbing envelope, may cause snagging or climbing interference and, if damaged, could also cause varying results including short circuits and the potential for personnel injury.
Development of North American compliant design and installation requirements as dis-cussed above need not be a concern for these OEM’s as there are a few companies in North America that specialize in assisting European and Asian-Pacifi c OEM’s with design conver-sions, or redesigns, for North American compliant lighting and electrical outlet services for their towers and nacelles. These companies provide conversion assistance based upon the OEM’s desires and can also provide engineered lighting and electrical service kits and systems designed for their specifi c towers and nacelles. These companies also work directly with the OEM and its tower vendors to assure code compliant and cost-effective installa-tions, and can provide training to the fi eld construction personnel to assure fi nal jobsite installation compliance and conformance, as well.
One such company, for instance, offers pre-engineered, pre-fabricated, pre-tested, plug & play lighting and electrical service systems that have an ETL Listing for both the US and Canada. Such a system removes the guesswork related to code compliance, and does away with the very costly hand wiring, troubleshooting, repairs, and rework typically as-sociated with build-in-place lighting and electrical service systems. This approach saves OEM’s a great deal of time, frustration, and money, and can keep the end customer con-tent, as there is little chance of having any electrical inspector surprises or delays at the jobsite related to installation.
The differences in electrical code compliance between these regions should not be ig-nored nor taken lightly. Some OEM’s have done so only to have paid the price after the fact, experiencing very high rework and reinstallation costs coupled with signifi cant project delays. Any potential issues in the OEM’s designs can be addressed by specialized companies located in North America who are postured to help. These companies have several years of experience working directly with the European and Asian-Pacifi c OEM’s and their tower and nacelle manufactures, providing design and engineering experience and expertise, and great knowledge of North American electrical and safety codes, and can supply lighting and electrical service kits and systems.
Moltec Windpower Products, Inc. | www.moltecwind.com
Wind Turbine Design: Lighting & electrical serviceNorth American Code Compliance By Christopher J Gilbert & Steve Galloway
The following three images illustrate problem installations found in tow-ers here in North America.
1. Demonstrates power cables with wire ties onto both sides of the per-sonnel ladder.
2. Demonstrates power cables also attached to a personnel ladder.
3. Shows typical European power outlet assembly.
Note: this tower lighting and electrical service, designed and installed by a European turbine OEM, was rejected at a wind farm construction site in North America by the local authoritative agency for non-conform-ance to National Electrical Code and OSHA requirements for reasons as-sociated with the pictures and the article. There were a couple hundred towers involved and the re-work costs were enormous and a signifi -cantly delayed site commission was realize.
1.
2.
3.
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As one of the most wind rich areas of the country in the state ranked fi rst for wind power, the land along the Texas Gulf Coast remains highly sought after
by wind power developers. As attractive as the Gulf Coast may be as a source for wind power, building conditions in this area are less favorable than in other parts of the country and often require special construction accommodations.
The Texas Gulf Coast is a heterogeneous region spanning over 350 miles from Louisiana to Mexico. The Gulf Coast exhibits a great diversity of geography and climate. Depending on where you are along the coast, you may fi nd yourself in a wetland, desert, chaparral, urban center, commercially viable farm or ranch land, or the beach. This geographic diversity and proximity to major population centers make the region an especially valuable source of wind power. This also means, how-ever, that each wind project brings its own unique set of challenges.
The following case study focuses on the construction challenges of Iberdrola Renewables’ Peñascal II Wind Project, which is being built by Mortenson Construction.
Peñascal II boasts some of the most challenging conditions in wind power facil-ity construction to date. From extreme heat to sand to geographical challenges, Peñascal II is testing some of the most experienced construction professionals in the industry. According to Tim Maag, VP and general manager of Mortenson Con-struction’s Renewable Energy Groups, “Peñascal II has required that [we] provide more innovation and tailor-made solutions than any other Iberdrola Renewables-Mortenson wind power project. This is largely because Peñascal II combines typical Gulf Coast wind power construction challenges with all the safety and logistical concerns of an extremely remote location.”
The remoteness of Peñascal II was one of the fi rst hurdles the team had to over-come. Peñascal II is located on approximately 194,000-acre ranch near Sarita, Texas, which is on the sparsely populated south end of the Texas Gulf Coast. The nearest major airport is in Corpus Christi, Texas, about two hours north of Peñascal, and the nearest highway is about 45 minutes from the site.
The remote location has required construction of more than 30 miles of access roads around mesquite trees and live oak motts to make the site accessible for utility scale wind power construction. The team also had to install its own electrical gen-erators to power construction equipment and the on-site Peñascal II offi ce complex, which houses six offi ce trailers for fi ve different companies and one mobile testing lab. For the fi rst two months of the project, computers and telephones were con-nected through satellite. Housing has been a major issue, requiring some workers to commute more than 70 miles to the site.
The Peñascal II site typifi es Gulf Coast region wind farm construction in that it displays a number of signifi cant safety risks. During construction there may be up to 200 personnel on site and, as team member safety is top priority, a certifi ed Emergency Medical Technician is located on site to serve as a fi rst responder in an emergency situation. Venomous snakes and spiders in and around the project site pose a potential hazard to workers. With temperatures reaching into the 100s dur-ing the summer, special precautions must be taken to avoid heat related illnesses. As an example, the project team placed concrete for foundation installations prima-rily during night time hours. Construction teams continue to work multiple shifts around the clock, bringing in different crews when necessary to accommodate rap-idly changing wind and weather patterns.
The particular geography of the Peñascal II site has also presented interesting construction challenges. The project site is located on a mixed terrain comprised predominantly of large, moving sand dunes and chaparral close to sea level. Sandy coastal land presents a host of complex challenges for wind power construction. High winds, at times, make it diffi cult to move equipment, stall work, and increase safety hazards. Special safety glasses were issued with foam lining and face masks since blowing sand impairs visibility for workers. The project team had to build passing lanes on access roads because vehicles would sink into the sandy shoulders. Crane trucks required the use of additional crane mats to create a bridge over the soft soil. Aggregate had to be shipped in by rail, about 180 miles from San Antonio, since the material is not available locally. In addition to soil constraints, the area’s high water table required specially designed above-ground, inverted-T foundations. Whereas a typical wind turbine foundation is excavated fi ve to seven feet below the ground, about two feet below the ground was excavated at Peñascal II and then backfi lled to create a mound condition. This created a higher fi nal grade elevation that solved the high water table problem, but then presented new challenges for crane pads and offl oading of construction materials.
The proximity to the actual Gulf of Mexico also presents environmental factors typical of a coastal installation site. The salt air from the Gulf surf accelerates the rusting of any exposed metals. A large storage tent was required to limit the expo-sure of small, loose metal parts prior to installation. The Gulf is also famous for its strong hurricanes and other tropical storms that generate signifi cant amounts of wind. Since Peñascal II is in a wind storm zone, a Hurricane and Flood Prepared-ness Plan was prepared that explains how the site will be prepared and evacuated if an emergency weather event should occur.
While this article has focused on the many challenges associated with building on the Texas Gulf Coast, the region will continue to see future wind power devel-opment. Steve Cook, construction executive for Peñascal II adds, “Building wind power facilities on the Gulf Coast is as rewarding as it is challenging. Peñascal II has given our experienced team a chance to demonstrate creativity and problem solving, and in this case, we can be especially proud of each success.”
Mortenson Construction | www.mortenson.com
Iberdrola Renewables | www.iberdrolarenewables.us
Gulf Coast Wind Farm Construction: Case Study The challenges of building the Peñascal II Wind ProjectBy Rose Meitzen
wind energy
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are multi-layered and complex. Part failures and parts that deliver less-than-optimum performance are affecting reliability. In some instances, poorly performing parts originate from the common practice of suppliers discovering new uses for their existing parts and devices and adapting them for new industries. Old-style parts that were adapted and supplied to OEMs for installation in wind turbine generators are good examples of this practice.
In this case, the old-style parts were covered by war-ranties from the supplier and extended warranties from the OEM. When the parts fail, they are repaired under the warranties. As the warranties run out, the end-users may fi nd themselves left with parts that will eventually need repair. The warranties replace the parts, but do not offer a long-term solution.
Early detection is also directly related to the industry’s life stage. Familiarity with new technology, equipment, and performance and maintenance expectations is always a challenge for emerging industries, but is no longer the case for wind power. With the industry in the growth stage, maintenance technicians have gained extensive experience and are able to readily identify and communi-cate performance issues. Equipped with this higher level of expertise, opportunities for improvement come to the forefront more quickly and more universally across the industry.
Maintenance costs: reliability vs. repairThe objective of maintenance is to increase availability and system reliability. With that in mind, it is apparent that the best return on maintenance dollars comes from true maintenance activities rather than repair activities. Both rack up signifi cant costs from downtime, accessibil-ity, parts, and labor. However, maintenance activities are generally predictable from a cost and time standpoint (e.g. downtime, scheduling, and hours). Repairs, often, are not.
Although existing parts and devices adapted to new applications are frequently employed to keep costs down, the repair maintenance they often require can easily result in higher costs over the long term. Adapted parts and out-dated designs also result in less-than-optimal performance of the entire turbine. The industry is recog-nizing that improved parts—better designs, better func-tionality, and better construction—offer huge savings potential for end-users. Improved parts deliver a big win for system reliability.
Improving products: a complex processThere are many steps between recognizing a product im-provement opportunity and delivering a mass produced product. It is a time-consuming, costly endeavor with speed bumps and hurdles along the way. For companies who successfully deliver an affordable, high-performance product to the market, the experience is richly reward-ing. For end-users, it can be a milestone that raises the bar on performance industry wide.
A good example of a signifi cantly improved, widely used product in the industry is the brush holder rig-ging, which is designed for generators installed in wind turbines. In one case study, there were reports of brush
wear and slip ring threading from maintenance techni-cians at wind turbine operations in various geographical regions across the industry. With the coopera-tion of on-site main-tenance technicians, fi eld engineers found that the turbines and generators were fi ne, but the brush holders installed in the gen-erators were the issue. They were made of stamped sheet metal and not perfectly adapted to the ap-plication. The sheet metal could easily bend and get damaged if bumped, which is a possibility during maintenance activities. If bent, the brushes can stick and not be able to move up and down; the unit will then overheat and the brushes and slip rings will get damaged. The micro switches, in place to alert when the brushes become worn, were unre-liable and did not work properly.
With the problem wide-spread, in this situation, the engineers began to work on a solution. The process in-volved considerable coordination, cooperation, and input between the engineers, as well as the OEM engineers and operator maintenance technicians. Ensuring a sturdy device that was cost-effective for OEMs and operators were key goals for production. The result is a totally re-engineered system.
In this case, it took three years to develop, perfect, fi eld test, and set-up production for the new brush holder. The result: a mass-produced, plug-and-play device that requires no modifi cations to install. The unit is sturdy, made of cast bronze, and designed with innovations that ensure reliability. Feedback from OEMs and major end-users indicate that market acceptance for the re-engineered device.
Wind power has arrived at the threshold of major expansion. The price of fossil fuels and the intensifying concern for the environment continue to drive growth. It is prime time to focus on improving reliability. Placing a priority on improvements at all levels is necessary for wind power to stand tall among all other reliable energy sources. In today’s global economic and political climate, all eyes are on wind power, and the pressure to achieve higher levels of performance is mounting. In cooperation with OEMs and vigilant on-site maintenance technicians, suppliers have a tremendous opportunity to seize the day with meaningful product improvements.
Roy Douglas is an application engineer with Carbone of America in Boonton, NJ. For more information on the above case study and redesign of the brush holder, please visit the company website.
Carbone of America | www.carbonelorraine.com
“Control costs.” “Produce to capacity.” These are familiar terms in any industry, and wind power is no exception. The challenges of keeping costs down and produc-tion capacity up remain constant in businesses around the globe. Although the solutions vary among industries and companies, meeting the challenges always requires constant observation and constant improvement. In the case of wind power, the life cycle stage of the industry, maintenance costs, and the need for product improvements are all key factors.
Growth stage: rising to new heightsIn North America, wind power has blown through the introduc-tory stage of the industry life cycle and is vigorously developing and expanding in the growth stage. As with all emerging indus-tries, major players, smaller established companies, and new start-ups make up the ever-changing landscape. Players range from local suppliers to domestic companies and global conglomerates. Some, with long-term involvement in Europe’s well-established wind power industry, have true wind power experience and tech-nical expertise. Others are major players in different industries and are trying to get a foothold in new ones. But, as wind power grows, performance and reliability become increasingly impor-tant for players who want to grow with the industry.
Dynamic situations occur in the early growth stage. For wind power, it’s a time when common issues across the industry are identifi ed and addressed. For most, the causes and the solutions
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Raising the Bar on PerformanceProduct improvements in the wind power industry By Roy Douglas
wind energy
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17North American Clean Energy
Con-Tech Systems supplies Geo-Sup-port Systems to anchor wind tur-bine tower founda-
tions and transmission line towers, as well as tower bolts. The company offers strand, high-strength solid bar and the CTS/TITAN Hollow Bar IBO Injection Bore System. The latter is particularly well suited for transmis-sion line towers in most ground conditions. New in the line-up are tower bolts. Con-Tech Systems backs up all of their products through ongoing development and technical service to clients. Con-Tech Systems has developed a post-tensioned deep foundation system for wind turbines as an alternative to concrete spread footings. This foundation is more economical than conventional mass foundations, is environmentally less intrusive, and works in soil and rock. Germanischer Lloyd certifi cation is applied for.Con-Tech Systemswww.contechsystems.com
Wind system fi ltration unitSage Oil Vac’s Gear Oil Exchange System features the high-per-formance CC Jensen
Filtration Unit. The CC Jensen Filtration Unit has a 3-micron absolute fi lter with a high dirt-holding capacity and a cellulose-based fi lter insert that removes particles, retains oil degradation products (oxidation resin/sludge, varnish), and absorbs dissolved/emulsifi ed and free water from oil. Installed on the Sage Oil Vac Gear Oil Exchange System, the CC Jensen fi lter operates over-night to fi lter new oil two to three times, and achieves ISO-approved cleanliness levels.
Built around Sage Oil Vac’s innovative vacuum technology, the Gear Oil Exchange System provides safe, fast, and clean fl uid changes on gearboxes hundreds of feet above the ground. Standard operating features in-clude a fl uid fl ush system, a heating system, 110% secondary containment pan, Barrel Straw, and an air compressor.Sage Oil Vac | www.sageoilvac.com
Roll stand system with edge control Eastman’s Heavy Duty Roll Stand is engineered to introduce rolled material goods for spreading onto a fully automated conveyor cutting system. The system is capable of handling rolls up to 1000 pounds (450 kg) and roll widths up to 126" (320cm). It is es-pecially suited for high weight rolled material goods like fi berglass—material commonly associated with the wind, marine, and aerospace industries. The heavy duty roll stand complements Eastman’s line of automated cutting and spreading technologies. The Eagle-EC3 Conveyor is a low-ply CNC cutting system that automatically feeds and spreads material for cutting. The Eastman conveyor is the system of choice by leading turbine blade manufacturers and other fi berglass facilities around the world. It is capa-ble of cutting multiple plies of fi berglass at a time, increasing material utilization and reducing labor costs. Material re-rollers may be added to the conveyor system to minimize handling of large cut pieces typically associated with turbine blades.Eastman Machine Company | www.eastmancuts.com
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18 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Each of the foregoing considerations can serve as an insurmountable obstacle to the siting of suffi cient transmission facilities to accommodate the growing demand for renewable resources. While the national interest in developing renewable re-sources has been stimulated by the efforts of the current Administration and some in Congress, the diffi culties in securing state and local authorizations for major transmission construction often impede the development of high-capacity transmis-sion facilities, which require development on a regional basis—at a minimum.
Traditional considerations of whether a project directly benefi ts the state or lo-cal government within which it is located have impeded the regional considerations necessary for the development of adequate transmission facilities to accommodate the addition of large renewable energy projects. Congress has attempted to address these issues in part by enacting Section 1221 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which gives the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) “backstop” authority to supersede state and local action or inaction to permit an electric transmission project in a designated National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC). Only two NIETCs have been designated so far by the US Department of Energy, the Mid-Atlantic and Southwest Area NIETCs. Both NIETCs were immediately challenged by a number of states, members of Congress, as well as other groups, and litigation challenging the designations is pending. It remains to be seen whether the NIETC
process will ultimately facilitate the de-velopment of transmission capacity en-hancements, or be so tangled in legal and political controversy that it will never have any practical effect.
A possible resolution of the diffi cult issues in transmission siting for renew-able resources is the creation of a re-gional multi-state approach to transmis-sion siting approval. One such approach is the Western Governors’ Association and various federal agencies Siting Protocol developed in 2002 for “a sys-tematic coordinated joint review process for siting and permitting of interstate transmission lines in the Western Inter-connection.” The Siting Protocol sets forth procedures for interagency coop-eration, but does not contain uniform substantive siting provisions. The En-ergy Policy Act of 2005 authorizes three or more contiguous states to enter into an interstate compact to “facilitate siting of future electric transmission facilities within those states,” and to “carry out the electric energy transmission sit-ing responsibilities of those states” (see www.westgov.org/wga/initiatives/wrez). The Energy Policy Act’s authorization of an interstate compact could be a
There is little question that the electric transmission system in the Western United States is badly in need of upgrade and expansion. Given the vast
amounts and quality of renewable resources available in the Western Interconnect, adequate transmission is imperative to enable renewable resources to accommodate load as part of the “new energy economy.” The demand for energy in the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (“WECC”) area increased 35% from 1992 to 2007. Demand for electricity in the US as a whole is projected to increase from 18% to 39% by 2030. Recently, the minimal expansion of the electric transmission system can be attributed to the construction of natural gas power plants near load centers. However, future generation additions involving large amounts of renew-able generation will be located much farther from load centers, requiring additional transmission facilities, upgrades of existing facilities and, potentially, load following conventional gas-fi red resources.
Substantial challenges face developers of major transmission projects in the US. The daunting list of hurdles to overcome starts with current state siting regimes, which refl ect a system largely built to move power within local utility systems on behalf of those utilities’ customers, as well as to connect to neighboring utilities to increase reliability between neighboring utility systems. This type of arrangement is not designed to address interstate and regional transmission siting on the scale required today.
The challenges include:• increased demand for location constrained renewable energy to power concen-
trated urban areas; • the “not in my back yard” (NIMBY) syndrome; • confl icts between local, state, and regional interests; • inconsistent and confl icting state and local regulatory requirements; • federal and state environmental reviews; • federal land authorizations; • lack of timing coordination among siting entities; • inconsistent state policies regarding greenhouse gas emissions and renewable
portfolio standards; • short-term capacity versus long-term need; • uncoordinated siting of transmission lines and renewable generation; and• the timing of “need” determination.
Deep Foundation Systems* for wind turbines
THAN THE WINDSTRONGER
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* Germanischer Lloyd certification pending; patent pending
wind energy
Transmission & Siting Issues in the USBy Mark A Davidson
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19North American Clean Energy
powerful tool to maintain state control over the siting process while establish-ing regionally consistent policies and procedures.
Another possible approach would be the development of uniform transmis-sion siting guidelines for adoption by various contiguous states. These guide-lines, perhaps in the form of a Model Transmission Siting Act, would include provisions for evaluating the regional or national interests in considering a ma-jor interstate transmission facility and would also deal with critical corridor designations, environmental reviews, and the paramount role of the state in making overall siting determinations.
There is a serious need for a co-ordinated and rational approach to transmission project siting that accom-modates the need to assure protection of environmental and other critical in-terests, incorporates ample opportunity for input from affected stakeholders, allows for reasonable recovery of costs, and places a priority on the compelling interest in modernizing the transmission grid. A multi-state approach through an interstate compact or the adoption by each state of a model siting regime will facilitate the development and transmis-sion of renewable energy to meet the demands of ever-growing urban areas and secure robust interconnections with the national transmission grid.
Mark A Davidson is a part-ner at Holland & Hart LLP.
Holland & Hart LLPwww.hollandhart.com
Rapid assembly modular sheltersT-RAMS are pre-engineered, all-steel equipment buildings intended to house high value and environmentally sensi-tive electrical and mechanical systems. Trachte has provided more than 90 pre-assembled buildings for wind farm sites. T-RAMS control buildings and equipment shelters are manufactured and delivered in modular sub-sections that are optimized for transporting by all common carrier modes, including closed van, fl at bed, ISO container, air cargo and rail. They are ideally suited for remote locations and destinations outside of the US. T-RAMS are de-signed by Trachte for ease of installa-tion, either on site or for pre-assembly at an interim OEM or staging facility. (Typically, a substation control building can be fully assembled in two to three days.) Pre-engineered, pre-fi t HVAC, cable trays and other electrical system requirements can be confi gured and included in the base package.Trachte | www.t-rams.com/nace
At MSE, we consistently complete wind projects in up to 50% less timethan other EPC companies. Which helps explain why we’re responsiblefor connecting nearly a quarter of all wind powercurrently on line in the U.S.
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Gearbox-to-generator shaft alignment LUDECA introduces the OPTALIGN SMART WIND system for the wind power industry. The OPTALIGN SMART WIND is specially confi gured with fi rmware features that ensure high measurement accuracy and with mounting hardware that is ideally suited for optimal alignment of the gearbox and generator shafts in wind turbines. No matter the manufacturer, coupling, or turbine type, OPTALIGN SMART WIND makes generator-to-gearbox align-
ment inside any nacelle easy. This safeguards reliability and optimizes the energy effi ciency of the wind turbine. Good align-ment reduces bearing failure, coupling wear, noise, and vibration. LUDECAwww.ludeca.com | www.ludeca.com/prod_optaligsmart_wind.php
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Web-based small wind prospecting AWS Truewind, LLC, announced the launch of a web-based small wind prospecting and siting application: Small windExplorer. This state-of-the-art application was devel-oped on behalf of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to provide statewide wind resource information to the small wind community. The small wind market is becoming increasingly reliant
upon map-based wind resource estimates to site residential and light commercial projects. The Small windExplorer was designed to be a user-friendly, all-inclusive solution for NYSERDA to provide their constituents with detailed and accurate wind resource information to facilitate responsible small wind development. The Small windExplorer provides free access to site-specifi c and highly accurate wind resource maps and reports to determine site viability.AWS Truewind, LLC | www.awstruewind.com
Finishing system for wind blades The new 5-axis Agile Gantry Multi-Processing System goes to any length as a do-it-all machining and fi nish-ing system for wind blades. With unlimited X-axis range,
40 m/min traverse speed, automatic tool change, and fi ve servo-controlled axes, it performs tedious coating, blade machining, and fi nishing quickly and repeatedly, increasing productivity and quality while reducing manual labor. The Agile Gantry uses a modular rail system to create any X-axis length required, with the rail system below the factory fl oor, above it, or elevated to create a high rail confi guration. A variety of workholding systems can be adapted and positioned be-tween the rails. The gantry cross rail provides 5.5 m (18 ft) of Y-axis travel and 2.5 m (8.2 ft) or more of Z-axis reach. Servo-controlled contouring is simplifi ed with rotary A and C axes (spindle tilt and wrist roll) that provide ±100° and ±200° of movement re-spectively. The maximum feed-rate for the linear X, Y, and Z axes is up to 40,000 mm/min (0.004 to 1,574 ipm), and up to 3,600°/min in the rotary axes. Linear axes are pow-ered by dual electronically preloaded AC servomotor rack-and-pinion drive systems.MAG | www.mag-ias.com
Fiber switch model for wind turbinesNexans introduces the new iSwitch G 1043E, an intelligent Fast/Gigabit Ethernet switch system for harsh environ-ment applications. This small and rugged switch contains
three fi ber optic SFP (Small Form Factor Pluggable) uplink ports and eight TP (twisted pair) copper ports to allow multiple applications such as monitoring, cam-era surveillance, diagnostics of rotor blades, access control, etc., via just one optical fi ber. The optional Power over-Ethernet (PoE) feature makes it possible to power IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, or multi-functional terminals di-rectly via the switch system. This technology answers the increasing demand for fi ber-optic installations within wind turbines and, at the same time, reduces invest-ment cost for new components.
The iSwitch further allows an early detection of changes on the optical link and a fast and easy localization of possible faults on the copper twisted pair cables links. Supporting the Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), the iSwitch system will automatically change over to a redundant link in the event of transmission failure. Switch systems inside the wind turbines can be monitored and managed through an easy-to-use system interface NexManV3, which does not require any knowledge of complex management software systems.Nexans | www.nexans.com
Wind tower lightingMoltec Windpower Products has researched and listened to its customers, concluding that many common industrial fl orescent lighting fi xtures being used fall short on desired performance, durability, as well as serviceability, and typically may not withstand the rigors of wind turbine ap-plications. After months of application analysis, design, and development, Moltec introduces its exclusive, “Purpose-Built” fl orescent lighting fi xtures that address the shortcomings of common fi xtures. The new design provides highly improved performance and durability with increased lumen output for both standard and optional emergency ballast units, extended duration emergency back-up periods, lower temperature cold weather starting performance, secure anti-vibration fi xture mounting points, captivated/ hinged heavy duty lens, thermostatically controlled cold weather heater option, and more. All of these “Purpose Built” features come with a very low price point, similar to the common fi xtures.Moltec Windpower Products | www.moltecwind.com
wind energy
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21North American Clean Energy
Re-engineered brush holderCarbone of America has re-designed the phase and ground brush holders for Hitachi generators installed in the GE fl eet of 1.5 MW wind turbines. The new Carbone of America brush rigging as-sembly is a totally re-engineered system, designed to reduce wear, maintenance, and downtime in the long term. The new brush holders are plug-and-play, and up-tower installation is fast, simple, and requires no modifi cations to the generator. The mass-produced holders, die-cast from bronze alloy, are sturdy and built to withstand rigorous fi eld use and turbine maintenance without sus-taining damage.
Carbone of America engineered radial-mounted brush holders to eradi-cate the previous reaction and trailing confi guration and improve load sharing and equal wear rates between brushes. The brush dimensions were changed to provide equal surface area for the same energy transmission. The ratios of brush coverage to slip-ring diameter, width, and helical groove, have been optimized for peak performance. The constant-force style brush pressure systems (200g/cm2 applied to the well-known Carbon brush grade CG626) provide extremely low wear rates and minimal ring wear over long-term operation. They exert consistent force to keep all brushes in constant contact with the high-speed rotating slip rings for the best possible distribution of current be-tween the 4 phase (power) brushes. Carbone of Americawww.carbonelorraine.com
Hydraulic robo crimper tool Hi-Line Utility Supply Company is pleased to offer a 12-ton lithium-ion battery-powered hydraulic robo crimper tool. It is supported by a fi ve-year manufacturer warranty and accepts all 12-ton “U” dies. The 14.4v lithium-ion battery lasts longer than previous battery designs. In addition, the tool features a mechanical retract—no battery power is necessary for this function—which greatly extends battery life.
This crimper has been redesigned with a new, ergonomically balanced, heavy duty housing: it performs even in bad weather. The protective rubber boot on the “C” head also offers protection. The new lithium-ion battery charger will also charge older battery models Ni-Cd and Ni-Mh. Most older tools will accommodate the new lithium-ion battery system in replace of the older Ni-Cd and Ni-Mh system.Hi-Line Utility Supply Company | www.hilineco.com
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22 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Six-hundred fasteners: the minimum requirement for most towers erected in the North American wind power industry. And, that’s just for the tower. Add
the fastener requirements for the turbine and the blade itself, plus operating systems,
and the numbers of bolts, screws, and washers quickly escalates. It is not diffi cult to fi gure out that dedicated, specialized training in the proper application of torque and the correct use of tools is critical to the ongoing vitality of the wind industry.
Torque is the force needed in the twisting/turning motion required to tighten a screw or a bolt. It may seem remedial, but proper torque procedures for fastener ap-plication—from knowing how to match material grades to ensuring fasteners are tightened using an even distribution of force—can pay big dividends in better con-struction, greater operating effi ciency per unit, and higher levels of safety. Fortunately, there are simple, straightforward methods in delivering that effi cient training.
The basicsIndustry estimates place the need for wind power technicians beyond 180,000 work-ers over the next 20 years. That is big news in an economy that continues to struggle. But the catch is providing these workers, many new to the industry, with the technical skills recognized in academic and business circles. The Workforce Development Coa-lition, a group of technical school educators and institutions, has identifi ed the need for this type of certifi cation.
Torque is a specialized skill that, up until this point in time, has been considered in-tuitive: just put the nut on the bolt and tighten it. Simple. But it’s not that simple when one considers the mission-critical nature of a wind power installation, which can in-clude hundreds of towers. Ongoing failure of equipment means losses of productivity and profi t, which multiplies quickly across thousands of fasteners that are sometimes spread over miles. Proper training and certifi cation are essential.
Lube, torque, and cleanGood lubrication, torque, and cleaning processes are the cornerstones of the day to day job of constructing and maintaining wind power facilities. Training is a key com-ponent of building a workforce equipped to meet the needs of a fast-growing market. Three important modules in a certifi ed training program include theory, application of torque (and corresponding safety steps), and proper hydraulic torque application.
Theory goes into the basics of what different fasteners do, how to identify bolt and metal, as well as the science and math that is at work in fastener protocol. Application of torque, how to use torque tools, and how to make proper calibration equations and wrench adjustments are also signifi cant—especially under the observation of a profes-sional instructor. Another training module dedicated to hydraulic torque application should involve course work for exceptionally large fasteners, some of which must be torqued in confi ned spaces. The application of hydraulic torque requires its own skill sets including knowledge of hydraulic systems, proper fastener fi tting for these spe-cialized applications, and large fastener/equipment safety considerations.
Of course, a good training program allows students to work with the equipment they will be using at a jobsite and is designed so that workers learn the basic block-ing and tackling of a process—like sequencing. So, for instance, recognition of the fastener being used, determination of the torque value, and application of the precise pressure on each bolt to ensure a strong attachment is achieved are all critical to suc-cess. The correct process requires a fastener be torqued two or three times before it reaches a maximum load. In other applications, a technician might torque a bolt to the maximum every time. But, in critical applications like the wind power or aerospace in-dustries, applying torque to a given fastener may require fi ve revolutions.
Details, detailsNuance is a big part of the business of torque as the industry moves into the future. Questions such as how to calibrate and re-adjust torque wrenches affect every aspect of tower construction. Future workers need to understand torque tools and their rela-tionships to various sizes of fasteners and extensions, as well as how working in tight places and at angles can affect readings. The advantage to future employers is clear: less on-the-job training, a skilled workforce that walks on the jobsite with real-world skills, and better advancement and job prospects for workers.
Frederick Brookhouse is the business development manager for education at Snap-on Industrial. The company offers a torque certifi cation program that includes modules on theory, technique, mechanical torque wrenches, electronic torque wrenches, hydraulic torque wrenches, torque multipliers, and safety.
Snap-on Industrial | www.snapon.com/industrial
www.aevenia.com • 218.284.9500 3030 24th Ave So. Moorhead, MN 56560
We are Aevenia, Inc., a premier energy and electrical construction company. We offer a powerful bundle of services and back it up with 40 years in the energy and electrical construction industry. Every day, we show our customers what it’s like to do business where trust, integrity, efficiency and quality are principal values.
We are Aevenia. The way energy moves.
TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION • DATA COMMUNICATIONSRENEWABLES • SUBSTATIONS • URBAN & RURAL TELECOM
POWER PLOWING & TRENCHING • ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING
VISIT US AT BOOTH #7020 DURING WINDPOWER 2010CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR MEETING TODAY
Successful Construction & MaintenanceIn the Windpower IndustryTraining key to good torque proceduresBy Frederick Brookhouse
wind energy
Photos courtesy of Snap-on Industrial.
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23North American Clean Energy
Boiler room controlsThe Biomaster family of PLC based boiler room controls is being released for production in Janu-ary of 2010. The Firemaster brand of boiler con-trols are based on PLC platforms using Hurst Boiler Companies’ control systems for monitoring, controlling, trending, and communications with boilers, burners, boiler feed water systems, feed water pumps, boiler stack economizers, and other boiler room equipment.
The Biomaster controls offer the latest micro-processor and PLC based control components
including color touch screens with Human Machine Interface (HMI), and come pre-confi gured as a customized package for each boiler room application. Com-munications are possible via Ethernet. Signifi cant savings can be had from the Bio-master system because they provide for energy savings through greater boiler room effi ciencies. Some of these greater effi ciencies can include reduction in boiler fuel consumption by using O2 trim systems and better combustion air control through true parallel positioning controls. Use of trending methodology provides for pre-dicted steam or water usage. In addition, signifi cant electrical energy savings can be obtained by using two element water level controls: VFD pump drives and VFD burner blower motors. In many cases electrical consumption can actually be cut in half or more.Hurst Boiler Company | www.hurstboiler.com
CLEANING OF FUEL GAS FROM BIOMASS UTILIZATION WITH ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATORS WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL is a company specialized in manufacturing of Dry and Wet Electrostatic Precipitators designed for biomass power plants in the North American market. WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL represents Beth GmbH, a German company with more than 120 years of experience in pollution control technology. WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL offers tailor-made engineering solutions in designing, constructing, and implementing a wide range of dust removal systems. www.Weis-Environmental.com
TAR ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR Volume Flow Rate from 300 acfm to 59.000 acfm Temperature up to 185 degree Fahrenheit Explosion pressure shock resistant design, if required Vertical gas flow direction
WET ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR (WESP) Volume flow rates of 530 acfm to 300,000 acfm Temperature up to 185 degree Fahrenheit Cylindrical or angular casing design Vertical or horizontal gas flow direction
DRY ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR (DESP) Volume flow rate of 530 acfm to 300,000 acfm Temperature up to 790 degree Fahrenheit Different design types Horizontal gas flow direction
Weis Environmental, LLC 4445 Malone Road P.O. Box 181070 Memphis, TN 38118 U.S.A. (901) 482-0108
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Copper & aluminum compression terminalsBURNDY has expanded its innovative BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of copper and aluminum compression terminals (types YBA, YBA-FX, YBAV-FX, and YBA-A). The BREAK-AWAY HYLUG provides maximum fi eld fl exibility by allowing the installer (us-ing the BREAK-AWAY feature) to easily convert two-hole terminals to one-hole terminals to suit the application. The BURNDY UL Listed and CSA Certifi ed BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of terminals is 90°C, 600 volts to 35kV. With a slotted second hole, the BREAK-AWAY line allows the terminal to conform to various bus bar dimensions. For additional fl exibility, the narrow tongue BREAK-AWAY HYLUG design allows the terminals to fi t into tight spaces. Plus, the BREAK-AWAY line accommodates a wide range of conductor combinations (AWG, Compact, Flex, and Metric).BURNDY | www.burndy.com
Alternative energy research With more than 500 researchers working to advance the energy and environmental challenges faced world-wide, Penn State brings an interdisciplinary approach to solving these complex issues. Their core strength areas include engine and alternative fuels research, bat-
teries and fuel cell research, as well as solar, wind, nuclear, and biomass produc-tion and utilization. The impact of their scholarship in multidisciplinary alter-native energy research has been recognized in a 2009 report by Elsevier Press. Penn State ranked fi fth among over 3,000 research institutions and fi rst among universities worldwide for leadership in this area. In FY08-09, the top 44 faculty members in the Penn State Institutes of Energy and the Environment were principal or co-principal investigators on more than 400 successful grant proposals, with over $109 million in awards. Of the $765 million total research expenditures at Penn State in FY2009, over $100 million resulted from industry sponsored research, ranking third nationally. (Note: Volvo/Mack truck shown in image is on the heavy duty dynamometer at Penn State’s new emissions test facility.)Penn State Industrial Research Offi ce | www.iro.psu.edu
RETECH 2010 Renewable Energy Technology ConferenceFebruary 3rd to 5th, 2010 • Washington Convention Center • Washington, DCwww.retech2010.comRETECH 2010 brings together more than 300 exhibitors across the entire renewable energy marketplace with 250 key leaders from the administration and industry covering: wind, solar, hydro, ocean, geothermal, biomass, biofuels, waste, smart grid, transmission, and storage. Plus, expect over 70 supporting organizations, 40 Media Partners, and 5,000 attendees all in one venue.
Show in PrintFeatures just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this year’s show.
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24 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Renewable & alternative energy practiceTroutman Sanders LLP has over 650 attorneys and 15 offi ces worldwide. The fi rm’s multidis-ciplinary Renewable Energy Practice has expertise in energy, project fi nance, tax, securities and capital markets, international transactions, and intellectual property. They represent clients from the early, strategic stages of investment and tax structuring to the development, construction, operation, and fi nancing of renewable and alternative energy projects worldwide. Troutman Sanders LLP | www.troutmansanders.com
Geothermal drilling technologies ThermaSource, a Santa Rosa, California based full service geothermal drilling company, will be showcasing their most recent projects com-pleted in 2009. The future looks bright in 2010 as the US Department of Energy (DOE) funding for geothermal drilling technologies will be awarded to many of the players within the industry. ThermaSource, ranked at the top in terms of geothermal drilling will work close-ly with several major DOE funding recipients. With the funding from the DOE and an opti-mistic rebound of the economy, the geothermal drilling market and ThermaSource are poised to have a successful year. For more information on ThermaSource, visit their website. ThermaSource | www.thermasource.com
Renewable energy power generation White Construction specializes in renewable energy power gen-eration projects by utilizing the strengths of their long-standing history of heavy industrial construction. White Construction was one of the pioneering companies in the early days of wind farm construction across North America. Their experience combined with high-quality standards and safety practices has gained the company recognition in wind industry. Currently, they have in-stalled more than 4,000 MW in the US and Canada. White Con-struction is distinctive in their ability to provide the engineering, procurement, and construction necessary to provide a turnkey ap-proach to renewable energy projects. They have the knowledge, experience, equipment, and management to ensure projects are on time and within budget—a philosophy that has led to many repeat customers. White Construction | www.whiteconstruction.com
Green energydesign-builder Fagen, Inc. is one of the largest, most respected merit shop green energy design-builder in the United States. Utilizing a database of over 20,000 civil, mechanical, and electrical direct-hire employ-ees, Fagen, Inc. has constructed 60% of the ethanol production capacity in the US. Fagen, Inc. has also constructed multiple wind farms and is currently working on a 100 MW biomass facility. Fagen, Inc. is prepared to meet industrial demand growth with a large inventory of cranes, including several Manitowoc 18000’s, and the largest CAT fl eet in the Midwest. The unmatched standard for quality, safety, and service has led Fagen, Inc. to be listed in the top 40 largest contractors in the US. Fagen, Inc. | www.fageninc.com
Dry and wet electrostatic precipitators WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL is a company specialized in manufacturing of dry and wet electrostatic precipitators designed for waste and biomass power plants in the North American market. WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL represents Beth GmbH, a German company with more than 120 years of experience in pollution control technology. WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL offers tailor-made engineering solutions in designing, constructing, and im-plementing a wide range of dust removal systems. Weis Environmental, LLC | www.weis-environmental.com
From Kansas to Korea, wood chips to rice hulls.If it burns, chances are we’ve already burned it successfully...
Hurst Biomass systems lead the Alternative Energy boiler market with innovative solid-fuel-combustion and the
super effi cient “Hybrid” vessel design. Complete modular construction for easy low cost installation. Hurst has 43 years specializing in custom design of biomass steam
plants and cogeneration systems.
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BOILER REPLACEMENT PARTSHurst is a major supplier of boiler parts and controls that are commonly found on most boiler systems. We stock parts and supplies for gas, oil, coal or solid fuel systems. No matter the maker, Hurst can fi ll all your part needs.
Renewable energy R&DNational Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the US Department of Energy’s primary national laboratory for re-newable energy and energy effi ciency research and develop-ment. The Laboratory’s research capabilities range from fun-damental science to technology applications. Research areas include solar, wind, biomass, hydrogen and fuel cells, advanced vehicles and fuels, and buildings technologies. NREL is oper-ated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC.National Renewable Energy Laboratory | www.nrel.gov
show in print
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SOLAR BUYERS GUIDE
2010NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 25NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 25 1/13/10 8:09 PM1/13/10 8:09 PM
26 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
ARCHITECTS & BUILDERS
BALANCE OF SYSTEMS
BATTERY/ENERGY STORAGE
CONCENTRATED SOLAR POWER (CSP)
CONTRACTORS
ENERGY SERVICE PROVIDER
LIGHTNING & SURGE PROTECTION
MOUNTING SYSTEMS
PERFORMANCE MONITORING/TRACKING
SYSTEMS
PV DISTRIBUTORS
PV INSTALLERS
PV MANUFACTURES & EQUIPMENT
RESEARCH & PROJECT
DEVELOPMENT/SOLAR INTEGRATION
SOFTWARE
SOLAR COLLECTORS/INVERTERS
SOLAR GLASS/ENCAPSULATION
SOLAR HOT WATER DISTRIBUTORS
SOLAR HOT WATER INSTALLERS
SOLAR THERMAL ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
SOLAR THERMAL MANUFACUTER & EQUIPMENT
TEMPERATURE PROFILING
TRANSPORTATION/LOGISTICS
UTILITY SCALE SOLAR/PV
OTHER
• Solar resource assessment & forecasting
• Alternative energy training classes
• Solar support structures
• Surge protection
• Foundation construction supply
• Micro inverters
• Environmental consultants
• Robotics
• Analytical lab
• Solar simulation equipment manufacturer
• Components or electrical protection
• Marketing & public relations
• Governmental & economic development services
• Testing & certifi cation
• Inverter stations
• Contract metal manufacturing
• Screen manufacturer for printing on solar cells
• Solar fasteners
• Energy project fi nance
• Insurance
• Economic development
• Pipe, pre-insulated
SOLAR BUYERSGUIDE DIRECTORY
ARCHITECTS & BUILDERS
White Construction, Inc.
White Construction offers a complete range of
services for clients ranging from thermal to PV,
and from ground mount to roof mounted systems.
White Construction recognizes that their success
is based on their clients’ success. They display
technical expertise, innovative spirit, and a keen
awareness of the newly immerging solar market.
Having the ability to pull from the strengths of
other renewable markets, White Construction is
able to offer constructive approaches to providing
legitimacy to solar power initiatives. Services
offered include: site planning, storm water man-
agement, fi nancial analysis, project management,
electrical design, road design, foundation design,
as well as a self-performing construction ap-
proach and commissioning assistance.
www.whiteconstruction.com
OPDE
OPDE is a company with a mission focused on the
development of solar photovoltaic plants. To do so,
OPDE brings together several investors who are
interested in investing in the production of solar
PV energy connected to the grid and groups them
together into the same solar plant.
www.opde.net
WANXIANG AMERICA CORPORATION
The New WANXIANG Solar Panel manufactur-
ing plant will open in February 2010. It is located
in Rockford, Illinois, adjacent to the Rockford Air
Freight Center. Initial capacity will run in excess of
25 MW and be capable of growing to over 150 MW.
All panels will carry the UL label and ‘Made in USA’
certifi cation. The plant will manufacture both mono
and poly silicon solar panels in sizes ranging be-
tween 40 and 280 watts. All panels will be certifi ed
for domestic and international applications. WANX-
IANG Solar will also participate in the construction
of a 25 MW solar farm that will power the Rockford
Airport and adjacent businesses.
www.wacsolar.com
BALANCE OF SYSTEMS
American Electric Technologies, Inc.
American Electric Technologies, Inc., a global
supplier of custom-designed power infrastruc-
ture solutions for the traditional and renewable
energy industries, offers products and services
that provide the balance of solar system such as:
modular solar substations, which bundle custom-
designed medium-voltage distribution switchgear
along with supervisory control and HVAC; modu-
lar solar power conversion systems, which bun-
dles combiners, inverters, circuit breakers, me-
ters, and monitoring equipment into containers
to secure assets and deter theft; site engineering
design, procurement, construction, and project
management services; site start-up and equip-
ment commissioning services; preventative main-
tenance and downtime avoidance services; and,
on-demand, 24/7 emergency electrical services.
By bundling the balance of solar system equip-
ment with design, construction, and maintenance
services, AETI can help lower initial and life cycle
cost per watt for end customers.
www.aeti.com
Fibox Enclosures
Fibox’s ARCA JIC enclosure family has been tested
and certifi ed by SGS FIMKO to comply with the Eu-
ropean Community’s Low Voltage Directive, and may
bear the CE Mark. The CE Mark is recognized world-
wide and CE Conformity is required for importation
of electrical equipment into the European Commu-
nity. ARCA enclosures were evaluated against EN
60529 and EN 62262, achieving ingress ratings of
IP66/IP67 and an impact rating of IK09. Additional
test results are available. The Fibox ARCA enclosure
line consists of 10 standard JIC enclosure sizes
ranging from 6 x 6 x 4'' D to 18 x 16 x 10'' D.
www.fi boxusa.com
HUBER+SUHNER
HUBER+SUHNER’s RADOX solar cables are UL
listed, double insulated, and PV rated. Their
electron beam cross-linked insulation and jacket
is designed to withstand the harshest conditions
of extreme temperatures, sunlight, abrasion, oil,
ozone, weathering, and severe bending. RADOX
PV cables can easily be installed without requir-
ing protective conduits [approved according to
NEC 690.35 (D)], saving both time and money.
As a result of multiple approvals, RADOX cables
are well suited for solar applications anywhere
around the world, in all climate zones.
www.hubersuhnerinc.com
eIQ Energy
eIQ Energy’s vBoost DC-to-DC converter module
increases system energy harvest and enables solar
panels to be connected in parallel rather than in se-
ries. This reduces overall system cost and provides
benefi ts for designers, installers, and operators.
vBoost’s advanced DC power management technol-
ogy allows over 100 thin fi lm panels to be linked on
a single cable—a 20-fold improvement over con-
ventional string architecture. With distributed MPPT
built in, vBoost-equipped systems can also harvest
5% to 30% more energy than conventional installa-
tions. Additionally, the Parallux system collects and
reports detailed data on panel performance with no
extra wiring, providing excellent operational visibil-
ity and reduced risk for system owners, as long-term
performance of each system component can be
monitored and assured.
www.eiqenergy.com
National Semiconductor
National Semiconductor provides a full range of
products and services that maximize the perform-
ance of photovoltaic systems of all sizes. Systems
from residential to commercial size, through to
utility scale projects, predictably operate at their
best with offerings from the SolarMagic portfolio.
Products include SolarMagic power optimizers for
panel power optimization, as well as integrated
electronics for smart panels, performance monitor-
ing and management systems, and hardware and
software-enabled performance assurance services.
www.solarmagic.com
Samlex Solar, Inc.
Samlex Solar, a division of Samlex America, is a
diversifi ed high-technology manufacturer of off-grid
renewable energy products such as inverters, bat-
tery chargers, charge controllers, dc-dc converters,
solar panels, solar charging kits, and related inverter
accessories. Known for having a relevant and com-
prehensive line of high-performance technologies,
Samlex is introducing a wider mix of off-grid solar
solutions for the marketplace in 2010. Samlex Solar
is one of North America’s fastest growing resources
for alternative energy products. With locations in
Canada, the US, and Europe, Samlex Solar is able
to reduce lead times and provide enhanced ship-
ping options to their large network of domestic and
global distributors.
www.samlexamerica.com
Ulbrich Precision Flat Wire
Ulbrich, of South Carolina, manufactures tinned
precision copper fl at wire for solar cell tabbing and
string interconnect ribbon that is used in crystalline
and thin fi lm modules. Their bus ribbon is utilized
to carry the current throughout the solar modules.
Ulbrich manufactures tinned copper, silver plated
copper, aluminum alloys, hybrid alloys, and metal
substrate materials specifi cally utilized in thin fi lm
modules.
www.pvribbon.com
BATTERY/ENERGY STORAGE
Rolls Battery Engineering
Surrette Battery Company Ltd., exclusive manu-
facturer of Surrette and Rolls Battery products, is
a North American lead-acid battery manufacturer.
Established in 1935, with a production facility in
Salem, Massachusetts, Surrette Battery Company
relocated to Canada in 1959, and is the nation’s
only remaining independent battery manufactur-
er. At their ISO 9001 registered production facili-
ties in Springhill, Nova Scotia, they manufacture
a range of batteries for railroad, marine, motive
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27North American Clean Energy
Mars Snackfood U.S. Petra SolarCampbell Soup Company RocheJohnson & Johnson Novo NordiskT h e c o m p a n y w e k e e p ,k e e p s g e t t i n g b e t t e r .COSCO Americas, Inc. Prudential A b s o l u t e l y E n e r g i z e d S o l a rPrinceton Power Systems IDT
Wherever your company is positioned across the energy supply chain—end-user, systems or product manufacturer, or new technology developer—New Jersey has significant advantages. Here’s why...
New Jersey is fully committed to reducing the state’s carbon footprint through clean and renewable energy. We demonstrate this commitment by offering special financial incentives and grants to drive both the supply and demand in the clean and renewable energy marketplaces.
The result: Over 4,500 renewable energy projects have been supported by the state, generating more than 140 MW and representing over $310 million in rebates.3
In addition, the state offers other aggressive incentives and tax credit programs for companies locating in targeted areas, creating new jobs, and more. This comprehensive approach, along with our strategic location and highly educated workforce, make New Jersey the ideal choice for locating your business.
Call 866-534-7789 to learn more about programs that can help solar and other renewable and energy-efficient equipment manufacturers, developers and end-users flourish in New Jersey.
www.NewJerseyBusiness.gov 866-534-7789
New Jersey ranks first in solar installations
per square mile in the nation.1
The state ranks first on the East Coast in terms of installed solar capacity.2
1. “New Jersey Outshines Most Others in Solar Energy,” http://www.cnbc.com/id/33233060
2. “New Jersey Outshines 48 of Its Peers in Solar Power,” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124900300175395743.html
3. New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program Project Activity Reports, October 2009.
It’s easy being green in
NEW JERSEY
NACE/0210
power, and renewable energy applications. With
complete distribution throughout North America,
and with customers around the world, their bat-
teries are considered to be the best and toughest
in the markets they serve. Success has been the
result of a dedicated workforce, continual proc-
ess advances, a company wide commitment to
satisfying customer needs, and a full range of
batteries for every application.
www.rollsbattery.com
Sun Xtender
PVX-4050HT is the new L-16 size AGM deep cy-
cle power battery in the Sun Xtender product line.
PVX-4050HT is a sealed, non-spillable electric
storage battery, this is a well-known 6 Volt option
used in both grid tied and off-grid renewable en-
ergy systems. With a 405AH rating at the 24-hour
rate, the PVX-4050HT boasts the highest capacity
in the 6 Volt series. The Sun Xtender difference
is maintenance-free operation—no electrolyte or
water replenishment, ever. Terminals are copper
alloy corrosion-free terminals. No lead or electro-
lyte exposure. This is the original Concorde VRLA-
AGM battery design proven and in use today by
worldwide commercial and military users. Sun
Xtender solar batteries are application design
specifi c, engineered, and produced for consist-
ent, dependable power requirements—providing
AGM deep cycle power since 1987.
www.sunxtender.com
International Battery
International Battery’s new large format lithium-ion
rechargeable cells and batteries are specifi cally
designed for the energy storage demands of re-
newables. Utilizing a unique, water-based, environ-
mentally friendly manufacturing process, these large
format cells are 10 to 50 times larger and result in
greater energy density than competitive offerings.
The rechargeable high-energy lithium-ion cells
are packaged into 4.1KWh modules that are the
building blocks for 50Kwh community energy stor-
age and 1MWh trailer systems. Managed through
International Battery’s comprehensive battery man-
agement system, these energy storage systems are
safe, reliable, and meet ramping requirements for
interconnection to the grid. Manufactured in the US,
International Battery’s lithium-ion batteries improve
the effi ciency of renewable production and assist
with intra-day production shifting.
www.internationalbattery.com
CONCENTRATED SOLAR POWER (CSP)
Alanod-Solar
Alanod-Solar is the world’s only manufacturer of both
advanced refl ective and absorptive surfaces for solar
applications. Alanod-Solar’s proprietary production
process results in a superior mirrored surface that
can outlast foil products and other alternatives while
providing solar technologies with higher performing,
longer lasting, and overall more effi cient surface
components. Recently released measurement and
accelerated weather testing data from both NREL
and DLR show that Alanod-Solar metal-based mirrors
are well suited for concentrating solar power applica-
tions because of their proven durability and sustained
level of specular refl ection. These independent tests
show Alanod-Solar metal mirrors have the longest
sustained durability and performance of any metal
mirrors. Taken together, these tests set new bench-
marks for levels of specular refl ection over time.
www.alanod-solar.us
Glasstech
With over 35 years of global experience, Glasstech
provides precise glass bending and tempering
equipment solutions for concentration solar-thermal
power (CSP), equipment solutions for the fabrication
of fl at glass for the photovoltaic (PV) segment and,
unique glass refl ector shaping equipment capabili-
ties for the concentration photovoltaic (CPV) market.
CSP: Glasstech’s innovative CRB-S technology is
capable of producing fully tempered, heat-strength-
ened or low stress glass suitable for lamination
for parabolic trough refl ector glass shapes. PV:
Glasstech offers high-volume fl at glass strengthen-
ing equipment systems for crystalline wafer-based
and thin-fi lm solar panel technology. Low-iron fl oat,
textured low-iron and TCO-coated glass products
can be processed. CPV: Glasstech offers system op-
tions for bending unique point focus paraboloids or
segments.
www.glasstech.com
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28 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
2010 solar buyers guide
Schunk Graphite Technology and associated members of the
global Schunk Group manufacture a complete line of products
used in the production of photovoltaic wafers. These include
wafer carriers and boats for coating processes, a full line of
furnace components for crystal growing, as well as purified
products and those containing either pyrolytic carbon or
silicon carbide coatings.
Schunk manufactures the materials used in these products
and can work with you to optimize the products for the
greatest efficiency in your processes.
We support our broad offering of products with sales,
customer service, and technical experts across all
of North America.
Schunk Components for
Manufacturing Photovoltaic Wafers
Schunk Graphite Technology
products and those containing g either pyro
silicon carbide coatings.
Schunk manufactures the materials usenk manufactures the materials use
and can work with you to optimize th
greeatest efficiency in your processes
WWe support our broad offering of p
customer service, and technical e
of North America.
W146 N9300 Held Drive, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
CONTRACTORSKiewit Power Inc.
Kiewit Power Inc., located in Lenexa, Kan., is a
competitive power team offering clients a “one-
stop shop” for all of their integrated engineering,
procurement, construction, and start-up service
needs. Kiewit Power’s strong fi nancial foundation
uniquely positions the company to handle large,
complex power projects across the US and Canada.
Outstanding client and partner relationships and
a full scope of services have led to Kiewit Power’s
extensive project experience in the coal-fi red, gas-
fi red, nuclear, air quality control systems, transmis-
sion systems and renewable energy—including
solar power—markets. Kiewit Power is a subsidiary
of Kiewit Corporation, one of America’s largest
and most respected engineering and construction
companies.
www.kiewit.com
Michels Corporation
For decades, Michels’ employees have been install-
ing cable, building substations, and roads, as well
as pouring concrete and laying fi ber. Michels offers
an exhaustive platform of construction services
from initial concept through fi nal completion. They
are a full Engineering Procurement Construction or
EPC contractor, which uses an interactive, proactive
project management approach that ensures safe,
on-time completion of all projects. Michels brings
over 50 years of experience to renewable energy
projects and has constructed over 2,900 MW of
renewable energy across the US.
www.michels.us
ENERGY SERVICE PROVIDER
Carlisle Energy Services
Carlisle Energy Services, a wholly owned subsidiary
of Carlisle SynTec, Incorporated, offers SpectroFlex,
a unique photovoltaic system for the commercial
roofi ng industry that combines amorphous silicon,
thin fi lm PV laminates with time-tested single-ply
roofi ng membranes. Based on amorphous silicon (a-
Si), the SpectroFlex PV system uses new technology
that results in a PV material that is up to 100 times
thinner than conventional solar cells. Featuring an
extremely low profi le that provides superior wind
resistance and durability, these lightweight and fl ex-
ible PV laminates are ideal for use in high wind and
hail zones. SpectroFlex PV laminates can be used on
fl at, steep or curved roof surfaces, as well as other
unique applications where traditional rooftop PV
systems are not suitable.
www.carlisleenergy.com
ENGINEERING/ELECTRICAL SERVICES (OPERATION & MAINTENANCE)
AZZ Galvanizing Services
AZZ Galvanizing Services, a division of AZZ incor-
porated, is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, and
owns and operates 22 hot dip galvanizing plants
strategically located across the US. AZZ operates
kettles ranging from 25' to 58' in length. With the
company’s network of plants, they are able to ac-
commodate the largest projects with customized
turnaround time at a competitive price. GalvXtra,
their unique nickel-zinc alloy process, helps meet the
highest quality standards that are necessary in the
highly competitive after-fabrication steel market.
www.azzgalv.com
Tetra Tech
Tetra Tech provides consulting services for the solar
energy industry, from initial siting/permitting phases
through post-construction monitoring. The company
has supported development of more than 300 re-
newable electric generating facilities, 150 power
generating facilities, 100 transmission lines, and
over 200 natural gas pipelines throughout the US.
www.tteci.com
BURNDY
BURNDY, a manufacturer and provider of connector
and tooling solutions to the solar industry, has an-
nounced their expanded line of compressions termi-
nals and grounding systems to meet the demanding
needs of solar energy projects. The HYGROUND
irreversible compression grounding system is a safe,
cost-effective, and time-effi cient grounding method.
HYGROUND is a complete system consisting of
connectors for cross grid connections, taps, splices,
cable to ground rod, ground plates, and terminations.
HYGROUND is acceptable for direct burial in earth
and concrete. UL Y467 and 96 Listed, CSA certifi ed,
and IEEE 837 tested. BURNDY’s mechanical grounding
connectors have been designed for easy installation
and outstanding durability. Only the fi nest copper al-
loys are used in their manufacture, ensuring top per-
formance under the most extreme environmental con-
ditions. UL 467 Listed for direct burial applications.
www.burndy.com
EnerWorks Inc.
EnerWorks Inc. is a North American solar thermal
technology provider. With proven, patented technol-
ogy and certifi ed systems, EnerWorks offers high
quality, reliable, and cost-effective renewable en-
ergy solutions to the North American and Caribbean
markets. EnerWorks develops and manufactures
proprietary renewable energy appliances for resi-
dential, commercial, and industrial markets. In the
residential market, EnerWorks’s solar water heating
appliances are fully certifi ed, ENERGY STAR quali-
fi ed, and the fi rst system to meet CSA international
standards. They complement existing water-heating
systems and provide users with clean energy and
a real reduction in energy costs. In the commercial
and industrial markets, EnerWorks is at the forefront
of integrated solar thermal solutions, working with
local partners to design, install, commission, and
maintain solar thermal heating and cooling systems.
www.enerworks.com
GL Garrad Hassan
GL Garrad Hassan is an independent renewable en-
ergy consultancy serving the solar, wind, and marine
sectors worldwide. A broad range of technical and
engineering services is offered, as well as industry
standard technology products and professional train-
ing courses that address the needs of stakeholders at
all stages of the renewable energy project lifecycle.
Clients include investors, owners, developers, manu-
facturers, research institutions, trade associations,
utility companies, and educational institutions.
www.garradhassan.com
LIGHTNING & SURGE PROTECTION
DEHN Inc.
DEHN’s unique SPD is now UL 1449 3rd Edition
compliant specifi cally for DC application on 600
and 1,000 V PV systems. This device is intended
for use on the DC system to protect systems
components such as inverters and others con-
nected to combiner boxes from the effects of
lightning caused surges and transients. DEHN
has developed and introduced the DEHNguard M
YPV-SCI for operating at PV generated DC volt-
ages by incorporating a switched fused circuit in
parallel to the MOV discharge circuit, permitting
the internal disconnect to operate arc free. DEHN
will celebrate its 100-year anniversary in 2010,
serving the electrical industry in research, design,
manufacture of products, and offering techni-
cal expertise to minimize the effects transients
caused by lightning and other sources.
www.dehn-usa.com
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www.DEGERenergie.com
Patented control system: The DEGERconecter identifi es the strongest light source at any time of day.
DEGERtraker: The single and dual axis fastening system ideally aligns the photovoltaic modules.
Up to 45 % more energy gained using the DEGERconecter
Intelligence designed by Nature. Solar tracking systems from DEGERenergie
exactly align each individual solar module to the most intense light source –
whether the sun is shining or it‘s heavily overcast. An impressive energy gain
of up to 45 percent.
BENEFIT FROM THE KNOW-HOW OF THE MARKET LEADER
▶ Best price-performance ratio – therefore a fast payoff
▶ 25,000 DEGERtrakers on the grid
▶ Lowest transport costs
▶ Most clever control unit
▶ TÜV tested and certified, UL/CSA tested and certified
Catches every ray of sun.
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30 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Raycap Inc.
Raycap’s Strikesorb modules earn UL 1449 – 3rd
Edition Recognition as TYPE 4 SPD components.
Designed for integration within solar inverters,
Strikesorbs pass all ANSI/UL 1449 tests including
the abnormal overcurrent handling trials. Equip-
ment integrating Strikesorbs require no further
SPD testing to maintain existing UL LISTINGS.
www.raycapinc.com
MOUNTING SYSTEMS
Cooper B-Line
Cooper B-Line’s solar industry experience and ex-
pertise has helped customers from coast to coast
meet cost per watt requirements—in over 100
MW of installed solar PV energy applications.
No matter what mounting options (ground, pole,
open structure, or rooftop), Cooper B-Line has the
standard and custom panel support systems, wire
management, and enclosure solutions for any PV
application. And, they get it all to their customers
when needed, with quick delivery times that can
help meet tax incentive deadlines. Learn more at
the company website.
www.cooperbline.com/solar
HatiCon Solar, LLC
HatiCon Solar develops and produces high-quali-
ty, environmentally responsible mounting systems
for the North American PV solar energy market.
The all-aluminum system is lightweight and
strong, and features pre-assembled components
allowing for low part count and one-handed
installation with no on-site fabrication. HatiCon
Solar’s technology was developed at HatiCon
GmbH by an expert in the German solar industry
with more than 16 years of PV mounting experi-
ence. The technology is protected by numerous
patents and has been employed in over 150 MW
of installations.
www.haticonsolar.com
Schletter, Inc.
Schletter, Inc. has developed an uncomplicated,
cost-effective method of adding additional tilt to
nearly fl at sheet metal roofs, the FixZ-7. Adding
this additional tilt of fi ve to seven degrees to fl at
roofs solves two common problems: low power
output yields from a roof-parallel (or “fl ush mount-
ing”) and improvement of the self-cleaning of the
modules. Often, it is not economical to add sup-
porting triangles and, often, it is not structurally
possible to add support triangles due to increased
wind load forces imparted to the roof. The FixZ-
7 aluminum profi les (recommended for module
heights from 4.2 to 5.6 feet mounted in a portrait
confi guration) are designed to be easily installed
to the roof using Schletter’s KlickTop attachment.
www.schletter-inc.us
Spectra Aluminum Products
Ontario-based Spectra Aluminum announces its
new listing on the Ministry of Economic Develop-
ment & Trade’s Directory of Ontario Solar Energy
Manufacturers & Suppliers. Spectra Aluminum
supports the Green Energy Act and FIT initia-
tives of its solar energy industry customers with
a 100% Ontario content program for aluminum
extrusions, labor, and engineering. With over 30
years of experience manufacturing aluminum in
Ontario, including aluminum extrusions, anodized
aluminum, and fabrication, Spectra is able to pro-
duce products to customers’ specifi cations. Spec-
tra Aluminum has two locations in Ontario, one
in Bradford and one in Woodbridge. Conveniently
located minutes from Toronto, Spectra is able to
serve Canadian and international customers.
www.spectraaluminum.com
2010 solar buyers guide
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31North American Clean Energy
Thompson Technology Industries
TTI designs, manufactures, and sells innovative
and best-of-breed solar photovoltaic products.
Each product is the result of over 500,000 man-
hours of solar PV system design, engineering,
and installation experience. TTI products enable
installers to incorporate optimal installation
practices with minimal amount of labor time.
They increase the life of solar installations, while
decreasing overall solar project costs. Their prod-
ucts are competitively priced and made of the
highest quality materials, limiting exposure and
liability. Innovative design and engineering make
these products fl exible and easy to use; thereby,
cutting labor costs, which boost the profi t mar-
gins on every installation. TTI’s products range
from the fi rst and only solar roof mount approved
by the International Code Council—Flat Jack, to
their high-performance, commercial-grade Sun-
Seeker Single-Axis Tracker.
www.ttisolar.com
R
Bright Thinking in Solar
Unirac Inc.
Unirac Inc. recently unveiled ISYS Roof Mount, a
product that continues the company’s innovative
approach to creating PV racking solutions that
address customers’ needs and budgetary require-
ments. The ISYS Roof Mount is a revolutionary,
non-penetrating roof mount solution that requires
no ballast blocks or concrete in its assembly. It
is positioned above roof obstacles, resulting in
signifi cant cost savings and preserving roofi ng
integrity. The confi gurable design accommodates
0° to 30° module tilt to satisfy most solar capture
requirements, and offers universal PV module
attachment capability. In addition, the ISYS
Roof Mount utilizes Unirac’s patented I-beam
components that demonstrate excellent strength
to weight ratio, and can withstand basic wind
speeds up to 120mph. In terms of time and cost
effi ciency, ISYS Roof Mount offers outstanding
value. With an installation rate of 2kW to 3kW
per man hour, it is one of the fastest and easiest
roof mounts available today.
www.unirac.com
ADES Solar Trackers
ADES Dual Axis Trackers: Increasing the production
of a solar park by 30% to 40% to ensure greater
freedom and fl exibility in the design of a solar
project. The ADES patented traction clamp tracking
technology increases reliability and eliminates tradi-
tional gear systems. A large tracking area (260 m2)
means minimized land use and infrastructure costs,
and reduced overall maintenance costs compared
with smaller trackers. Experience: over 5,000 track-
ers installed, representing 150 MW capacity.
www.adessolartracker.com
HellermannTyton
HellermannTyton’s high-performance edge clip cable
tie assemblies are designed specifi cally to route
cables by securing them to a metal or plastic frame
rail edge, eliminating the need for mounting holes
and mechanical fasteners. The clip is easy to secure
and the extraction force is high due to the inte-
grated metal clamp that holds the edge clip in place.
The cable tie fi rmly grips the cable, preventing chaf-
ing of the cable and ensuring long-term reliability.
www.hellermann.tyton.com Hilti, Inc.
Known for providing quality, innovative products to
the construction industry for more than 50 years,
Hilti now brings that same expertise to the solar
industry. The Hilti MSP-AL Solar Park Mounting
www.wielandinc.com
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32 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
System, developed specifi cally for the solar industry,
consists of only six components. Intuitive assem-
bly—with lightweight, corrosive-resistant aluminum
components—means build-out of ground mount
racking structures for fi xed PV systems is faster
than ever before. The MSP-AL Solar Park Mounting
System can accommodate most solar panel types
in any array and all common footing and foundation
types such as ramming profi les, concrete founda-
tions, and earth screws. Because the Hilti system is
designed to be built on site, one array after another,
the system makes offsite pre-assembly a thing of
the past, helping to reduce overall installation labor
and transportation costs.
www.us.hilti.com
National Carport
National Carport has announced the DSA-PC ap-
proval of its Solar Canopies for California schools.
Their DSA approved all-steel Solar Canopies, Shade
Structures, and Walkway Covers can support any
solar energy system. All National Carport systems
are an over-the-counter submittal that allows clients
to avoid costly retrofi ts and offers a signifi cant cost
reduction over design-built structures. With over
2000 school installations state-wide, and 20 years
of service to California schools, National Carport
can meet any need.
www.schoolshelters.com
PanelClaw, Inc.
PanelClaw, Inc., developer of photovoltaic mounting
solutions, including the Polar Bear system, an-
nounces the launch of two new mounting solutions:
PanelClaw FR-IB and PanelClaw GM. PanelClaw
FR-IB is the only fl at roof mounting solution featur-
ing integrated and warrantied ballast. Its innovative
design is geared towards continuing to lower the
installed and lifetime system cost of PV. Here are
just some of the system features of FR-IB: 3 system
components including ballast; built-in wire manage-
ment solution; factory installed electrical grounding
lug; and, factory installed roof protection and fric-
tion pad. PanelClaw GM is the only ground mounted
system in the market today that does not require
the use of heavy construction equipment for instal-
lation. System features of PanelClaw GM include:
non penetrating, ballasted design; adjustable height
from grade; wavy ground friendly fl exible joints; and,
lower construction risk
www.panelclaw.com
Pivot Point Incorporated
Pivot Point Incorporated has invented a new quick-
locking pin named the SLIC Pin (US patent number
6,872,039, foreign patents pending). The pin func-
tions as a pin and cotter all in one, which saves time
in labor-intensive assembly operations. SLIC is an
acronym for Self Locking Implanted Cotter and, as
the name implies, the pin is secure and self locking
through the use of an implanted plunger (locking
detent) that effectively functions as a self-contained
cotter pin. The wedge shaped plunger is spring-
loaded and easily and automatically retracts when
the pin is inserted into a hole. Once fully inserted,
the plunger springs back up, locking the pin into the
application.
www.pivotpins.com
Quick Mount PV
Quick Mount PV is the industry standard for high-
quality, waterproof, solar installation. Quick Mount
PV makes code compliant, fl ashed mounting sys-
tems that attach solar racking and panels to a wide
variety of roof types including composition, wood
shake, and tile. Quick Mount PV maximizes the life
of new and existing roof warranties by following all
building codes while protecting the structure with
failsafe waterproofi ng and fl ashing. Made with all-
aluminum fl ashing plus stainless steel hardware,
the product has a 50-year life. No roof cutting is
required, preserving the integrity of the roofi ng
materials and warranty. Designed by installers for
installers, Quick Mount PV easily installs the rack of
choice, minimizing labor costs. Custom manufactur-
ing available. Made in the USA. Patents pending.
www.quickmountpv.com
2010 solar buyers guide
Imagine BIG Possibilities.The ISYS Ground Mount solution is the fi rst modular framing system utilizing modern techniques for large scale utility and commercial projects. Designed to deliver the most cost effective system, the ISYS Ground Mount has a total installed cost as low as $0.40 per watt with an industry leading installation rate of more than 10 modules per man-hour.
THE NEXT BIG THING!Introducing the fastest, strongest, most revolutionary ground mount solution EVER!
www.unirac.com
R
Bright Thinking in Solar
Size compared to
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You can’t control the sun. But you can control installation costs.Help reduce your cost per watt with labor-saving products from Cooper B-Line.At Cooper B-Line, our solar industry experience and expertise have helped customers from coast to coast meet their cost per watt requirements — in over 100 MW of installed solar PV energy applications. No matter what your mounting options (ground, pole, open structure or rooftop), Cooper B-Line has the standard and custom panel support systems, wire management and enclosure solutionsfor your Photovoltaic (PV) project. And we get it all to you when you need it, with quick delivery times that can help meet tax incentivedeadlines. Learn more today at www.cooperbline.com/solar.
www.cooperbline.com/solar
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34 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Order online or call today and receive 10% off your first order. Use promo code NACE1009
S-5!
The S-5-PV Kit is a revolutionary new solution to at-
tach solar PV panels to standing seam metal roofs.
A 30-year power source, on a 30-year roof with
zero penetrations couples the most sustainable roof
system available with alternative power genera-
tion. With the S-5-PV Kit and any S-5! Mini Clamps,
installing a leak-free solar assembly is a quick and
easy process. The patented design of the attach-
ment clamp and attendant round-point setscrews
enables an entire installation without a single pen-
etration of the roof’s surface. The S-5! Mini Clamps
are a handy way to install everything from the PV
modules to the electrical chases. Providing fl exibility
S-5! offers two kits to accommodate various PV
frame thicknesses.
www.s-5.com
SolarDock
The SolarDock is a patented, fl at roof or ground
mounted solar electric racking system. Its innovative
design has reduced installation time and costs for
over 5 MW of commercial solar electric installations
worldwide. Key features include: no roof penetra-
tions—at any angle; the angled design increases
energy output; quick and easy installation; low in-
stallation and maintenance costs; works with most
major solar panels; easy expansion or relocation;
wind tunnel tested and approved up to 120 mph;
and, a 25-year warranty. Made in the USA.
www.solardock.com
Unistrut Energy Solutions
Unistrut Energy Solutions is an essential partner to
solar integrators, solar panel manufacturers, and
mounting systems providers. The brand is part of
the Tyco International family blending best-in-class
galvanized steel products from strong brands such
as Allied Tube & Conduit and Unistrut. In addi-
tion to metal products, the aggregate capabilities
include full-range fabrication, a technical services
group capable of delivering engineering expertise
and conceptual design, along with an installation
services group with over 60 years experience. No
other BOS provider is capable of matching their full
range of resources. Whether requiring one or all of
our capabilities, they are dedicated to providing the
foundation for solar projects.
www.unistrutenergy.com
PERFORMANCE MONITORING/TRACKING SYSTEMS
Campbell Scientifi c Inc.
Campbell Scientifi c offers pre-wired packages for
solar-resource assessment and PV performance
monitoring. These systems accurately and reli-
ably measure a variety of on-site meteorological
parameters, power generated and consumed, and
PV panel temperature. Couple this measurement
capacity with their ability to read inverters and
power meters, and their systems provide a single
data-access point. LoggerNet software facilitates
automated data collection, or systems can be
integrated into existing SCADA or PLC system via
ModBus or DNP3.0. Campbell Scientifi c designs
and manufactures measurement and control
instruments, specializing in programmable, fi eld-
based dataloggers. With over 35 years of experi-
ence and more than 150,000 units sold worldwide,
Campbell dataloggers are well-known for quality
measurements, versatility, and reliable perform-
ance—even in harsh, remote environments.
www.campbellsci.com/renewables
DEGERenergie
DEGERenergie has developed the fi rst mass-
marketable tracking system in the world that
supports the use of concentrating technology
(CT). The fi rst DEGERtraker 3000CT and 5000CT
models will be available from serial production in
early 2010 and have a tracking accuracy of 0.1°.
The high-precision tracking systems achieve a
tracking precision of 0.03° in controlled labora-
tory conditions; the serial models DEGERtraker
2010 solar buyers guide
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36 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
nace-0110.eps 12/15/09 9:03:26 AM
3000CT and 5000CT achieve a 0.1° precision rate
and are, therefore, suitable for being used with
concentrating technology. The tracking system’s
energy management has also been optimized.
The outcome is that the DEGERtrakers realign
the integrated solar modules to the sun’s position
every 10 seconds. That means the systems con-
sume signifi cantly less energy for tracking than
the previously known highly accurate systems
that have motors in constant operation.
www.degerenergie.com
Fronius USA, LLC
Fronius DATCOM is an easy to operate data com-
munications system that provides precise data
for PV system monitoring and analysis. Various
PV system monitoring options are available, from
the control of systems using simple audio-visual
warnings, professional analysis, and data visuali-
zation, to remote system monitoring via the Inter-
net—because every PV system operator wants to
know how their investment in the system is doing.
www.fronius-usa.com
Next Generation Energy
Next Generation Energy announces its partner-
ship with Natcon7, a German based company
providing innovative automation control and
monitoring solutions for renewable applications.
This includes Natcon7’s Green Energy Portal—a
Performance Monitoring & Reporting Service
(PMRS) system that boosts the effi ciency of so-
lar, wind, biogas, hydro, and geothermal power
installations, including systems confi gured for
balancing power or capacity storage. Providing a
broad range of unique features such as schedul-
ing control, yield forecast monitoring, and power
curve evaluation that improve the planning,
predictability, and the grid compatibility of power
generation from renewable energy sources.
Next Generation Energy is responsible for sales,
project management, and service activities in
North America.
www.ngeus.com
US Digital
US Digital’s T7 inclinometer is designed for CSP and
CPV solar tracking applications, ensuring maximum
tracking effi ciency of the solar collection system.
The T7 utilizes solid state technology measuring tilt
angle over a 360° range in a single axis. Positional
accuracy is ± 0.1° with a resolution of 0.01°, and is
IP 67 rated. The T7 communicates over a networked
CAN bus or RS232 protocol by means of simple se-
rial commands to provide true angle of inclination
relative to gravity. T7 is available to ship immedi-
ately, priced at $176.54 for 10 units.
www.usdigital.com/solar
AFFIRMA Energineering and Technology
The APOLO 125 twin axes solar tracker, boasting
a generous 93 m2 platform for solar panel up to
13kW, is distinguished by robustness, reliability,
simplicity of assembly, and low cost, making it an
essential component for the on-grid solar plant.
R&D Department of AFFIRMA Energineering and
Technology has designed this tracker to obtain 40%
more output than a fi xed system. Its innovative
control system, based on astronomical positioning
using trigonometric formulas, enables the tracker to
achieve an optimal orientation in regard to the posi-
tion of the sun.
www.affi rmasolar.com
Lauritzen Inc
Lauritzen is proud to announce the general availabil-
ity of their solar tracker controllers, which are capa-
ble of handling anything from a single tracker up to
MW scale fi elds. The Solar Tracker Control System
is fully networked with integrated accountability,
remote control, and autonomous operation. The
control system can be used to operate single or dual
axis trackers using fl at plate PV, CPV, and CSP col-
lector technologies. With their iPhone app, a techni-
cian in the fi eld can remotely operate and diagnosis
individual trackers, as well as gain access to solar
system data. Using the Lauritzen Valhalla server, us-
ers and administrators can control and monitor solar
tracker site data and events worldwide.
www.lauritzen.biz
2010 solar buyers guide
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ARCA Enclosures for the Solar Industry
21st Century Technology requires 21st Century Enclosures
• 10 classic sizes,
100 configurations
• Highest ingress ratings
• Superior UV resistance
• Robust strength
• Higher impact resistance
• Lightest weight JIC enclosure
• Easily modified with
standard tools
• Field maintainable design
www.f iboxusa.com
Moxa Americas, Inc.
Moxa is pleased to offer two resources that explain
a new application for managing a solar power
system with embedded computers. In addition to
managing the solar energy system, central control-
lers need to manage peripheral devices, such as
traffi c signals, as well. Embedded computers can
play an important role in this function. The solar en-
ergy industry’s goal is to maximize energy effi ciency.
Embedded computers can be used to achieve this
goal by being deployed as controllers for remote
monitoring, data acquisition, data logging, and pro-
tocol conversion when constructing a solar energy
system. Solar energy inverter manufacturers, system
integrators, distributors, or anyone who would like
to learn more about the latest solar energy applica-
tions are invited to consult their new solar energy
website and download the white paper: www.moxa.
com/event/sys/2008/solar_energy/index.htm.
www.moxa.com
PV DISTRIBUTORS
ThinkSolar
ThinkSolar is a full-service wholesale solar
distributor and integrator. They offer US contrac-
tors quality products at competitive prices and
free technical design support. They also help
businesses, utilities, and governmental agencies
go solar. As the US subsidiary of SolarMarkt
AG, founded in Germany in 1985, ThinkSolar
maintains vigorous relationships to world-class
PV research institutes and manufacturers to
better serve their clients and grow the industry
worldwide. Their wholesale product line includes
Schott, Trina, Suntech, SMA, KACO, PV Powered,
UniRac, AluTec, Tyco, MC, and more.
www.thinksolar-us.com
Advantiv Technologies, Inc.
Advantiv Technologies, Inc. supplies materials used
in the production of solar photovoltaic devices.
Products include single and multi-crystalline wafers,
polysilicon chunks and granules, ingots, tops/tails,
and wafers. Advantiv also provides sputtering tar-
gets and vacuum evaporation materials.
www.advantivtech.com
Christopher Associates
Christopher Associates, a pioneering supplier
and distributor to the photovoltaic industry,
offers Tonsan sealants and compounds. Tonsan
is one of the most advanced manufacturers of
sealants and potting compounds for PV module
manufacturing. The company manufactures a full
range of PV materials in one of the world’s most
advanced manufacturing facilities in Beijing, with
multiple North American and European Community
certifi cations and approvals. Tonsan sealants and
compounds provide excellent heat and weather
resistance, and are ideal for automatic dispensing.
The sealants are fast curing and feature excellent
electrical insulation properties.
www.christopherweb.com
Conergy
Conergy designs, manufactures, installs, and
fi nances solar photovoltaic solutions for major
commercial sectors, public agencies, businesses,
and homeowners through two distinct channels.
Conergy’s Projects Group focuses on custom solu-
tions for large-scale, energy intensive enterprises;
Conergy's Distribution Group serves a national
network of installers, developers, and dealers in the
grid-tied and off-grid residential realm, while also
addressing the needs of small commercial markets.
With 10 years’ market expertise, Conergy has
successfully deployed projects totaling over 1.25
Gigawatt of renewable energy capacity around the
world—nearly a full Gigawatt in innovative solar
PV solutions. With operations in 14 countries over
four continents, Conergy is helping drive the world’s
burgeoning clean energy economy.
www.conergy.us
groSolar
National solar energy distributor groSolar recently
announced its North American distribution partner-
ship with Zep Solar, manufacturer of the world’s fi rst
auto-grounding, drop-in mounting solution for PV
modules. They designed the Zep System to enable
ultra-fast installation of solar panels, while simulta-
neously enhancing the safety and aesthetics of the
overall array. The result is a system that cuts the
total installation time in half, thereby dramatically
reducing the price of solar power to homeowners.
www.grosolar.com
PROINSO
PROINSO engineers for the design of PV solar
energy plants that are connected to power grids—
from overseeing the planning phase, requesting cor-
responding construction licenses and environmental
impact study permits, managing and requesting
the electrical supply and connection points from
the power company, to executing and managing
construction. Each service is guaranteed with the
highest levels of diligence, effi ciency, quality, and
deadline compliance. PROINSO supplies the equip-
ment necessary for project development, from PV
modules to fi xed structures and dual-axis solar
trackers to inverters or converters, as well as all
other necessary supplies to execute a project. Plus,
the equipment supplied is always top-quality, pres-
tigious, and energy effi cient.
www.proinso.net
SunWize Technologies
SunWize Technologies has launched a new Grid-Tie
System product line. The popular pre-engineered
complete systems are now available with high-
performance, low-cost SANYO N Series 215 W solar
modules. SunWize has incorporated the SANYO N
Series 215 W module into 58 new confi gurations of
its Grid-Tie System packages. The SunWize Grid-Tie
Systems with SANYO N Series 215 W produce more
power and cost less than the best-selling SANYO
BA19 200 W packages. The new additions to the
product line feature the SANYO N Series 215 W
solar module combined with UNIRAC SolarMount
racking and industry leading inverters from Fronius,
SMA America, and Xantrex (Schneider Electric).
www.sunwize.com
2010 solar buyers guide
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39North American Clean Energy
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PV INSTALLERS
Rosendin Electric
One-hundred percent employee owned, Rosendin
Electric is ranked second in the United States for
electrical construction and fi rst in the production
of wind farms, totaling over 7 GW of generated
wind power. Rosendin Electric has since taken
their expertise with collection systems, substa-
tions, and transmission work to the solar industry.
Currently, Rosendin Electric has over 35 MW
of PV experience completed or under contract.
Rosendin Electric’s core mission continues to be
providing unparalleled service, safety, and value,
which is the reason over 90% of their work is
with repeat customers.
www.rosendin.com
D. C. Taylor Co.
D. C. Taylor Co. is a commercial roofi ng and solar
contractor, founded in 1949. They realize the work
they do on the outside of a building can have a
signifi cant impact on the productivity and safety
inside the business. This responsibility drives every-
thing they do—whether it’s installing photovoltaic
systems, new and replacement roofs, performing
repairs, or extending the life of an existing roof with
preventive maintenance, D. C. Taylor Co. proudly
practices responsible roofi ng, inside and out.
www.dctaylorco.com
MTG Moltec
MTG Moltec’s EZ Connect is a pre-engineered, pre-
fabricated, pre-tested PV string interconnect wiring
harness in a UL fl exible, nylon conduit system. EZ
Connect interconnects to all industry standard panel
connectors, and offers fast installation, no hand wir-
ing, and a rodent-proof material. Ideal for medium-
to large-scale installations.
www.mtgmoltec.com
Solmetric Corporation
Solmetric Corporation delivers innovative, accurate,
and easy to use solar test and measurement equip-
ment. The Solmetric SunEye is a powerful hand-held
tool that produces monthly and annual solar access
and shade information instantly with the press of a
button. New Solmetric PV Designer software ena-
bles users to simulate and lay out solar PV modules
on a roof surface and calculate the energy produc-
tion for the system.
www.solmetric.com
PV MANUFACTURES & EQUIPMENT
Applied Materials, Inc.
Applied Materials is a supplier of PV manufactur-
ing equipment, offering systems for thin fi lm and
crystalline silicon solar products. As the largest
factory equipment supplier to the global semi-
conductor and fl at panel display industries, with
over 40 years experience, Applied’s products are
engineered for demanding, 24/7 factory environ-
ments. Their expertise in automation, process
technology, and materials science can take solar
manufacturers to a new level of excellence and
help cut cost per watt. Their solar products in-
clude some of the most advanced manufacturing
equipment for crystalline silicon (c-Si) and thin
fi lm silicon solar panels. Applied’s c-Si equipment
line-up focuses on the highest value process
steps in wafering and cell manufacturing to drive
up effi ciencies and drive down costs while their
thin fi lm solution delivers an entire factory line.
www.appliedmaterials.com/solar
Ascent Solar
Ascent Solar delivers the next generation of solar
technology with fl exible, highly effi cient CIGS
modules that easily integrate into product appli-
cations, opening up new frontiers for solar power
utilization. Ascent Solar’s high-performance
modules allow companies to create the lightest
weight, most durable PV products commercially
available, providing game-changing ease of in-
tegration, and lower overall system costs, while
delivering a realistic source of clean, renewable
energy.
www.ascentsolar.com
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40 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Cookson Electronics
Cookson Electronics Solar Materials brings its
global soldering expertise, including its unique
mix of metals and chemistry expertise, to pho-
tovoltaic market applications. Supported by
its long-term commitment to innovative R&D
and close-to-the-customer product technology
development, Cookson assists solar cell/panel
manufacturers in increasing their cell effi ciency
and in lowering their cost/watt. Their new ALPHA
PV Ready Ribbon was developed as a result of
intense R&D efforts. PV Ready Ribbon increases
manufacturing up-time by eliminating the need
to apply fl ux separately during the tabbing and
stringing process. It is a proprietary, resilient fl ux-
coated ribbon that is used to link solar cells in the
PV module assembly process. Its unique feature
is Cookson Electronics’ patented chemistry and
technology used to fl ux-coat the ribbon. Such
innovative products represent Cookson Electron-
ics’ commitment to develop technologies for the
rapidly growing solar market.
http://alpha.cooksonelectronics.com/
products/photovoltaic/photovoltaic-solar-
products.asp
EFD, Inc.: A Nordson Company
EFD, Inc. offers a variety of dispensing systems
for applying controlled amounts of solder paste,
fl ux, coatings, silicones, and other fl uids used in
PV manufacturing processes. Products include
high-speed jet dispensing systems, precision
coating systems, pneumatic bench-top dispens-
ers, precision dispense valves for automated pro-
duction lines, dispensing robots, and high-quality
solder pastes.
www.efd-inc.com
Fronius USA, LLC
Fronius is a PV inverter manufacturer with over
65 years of experience in developing successful
and innovative power conversion technologies.
Fronius has developed a revolutionary inverter
concept that is used for grid tied systems. The
Fronius IG Plus inverter builds on a successful
model with multiple enhancements including
signifi cantly improved effi ciency, maximum power
harvest, a built-in six circuit string combiner,
integrated, lockable DC Disconnect, unbeatable
reliability, and a unique power plug system. New
larger power stages expand the proven Fronius IG
family from 2 to 12 kW in a single inverter, ideal
for both residential and commercial applications.
Also available are various PV system monitoring
solutions with Fronius DATCOM.
www.fronius-usa.com
Huksefl uxUSA
Huksefl uxUSA is pleased to introduce the HT
line of portable testers for I-V curve trace and PV
systems performance analysis. The I-V400 Curve
Tracer is ideal for both indoors laboratory and
outdoors module/array I-V curve trace testing,
while the SOLAR300 is optimally suited for PV
system installers and O&M contractors alike, for
single and three-phase module/array effi ciency
testing under operational conditions. Like the
I-V400, the SOLAR300 provides a fi eld portable
solution for module/array effi ciency validation
in-situ against the actual solar resource, while
also determining system power factor, harmon-
ics and voltage anomalies at the inverter output,
providing complete end-to-end systems testing
capability. Feature packed for maximum diagnos-
tics capability, the I-V400 and SOLAR300 boast
an intuitive user interface menu scheme for ease
of operation.
www.huksefl uxusa.com
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Fiber optic, copper and wireless solutions for the nacelle and control system, and between towers in the windpark.
MASTERLINE pre-terminated fiber optic cable system for safe, quick and easy installation
RADOX® Solar cables, connectors and junction boxes for high performance modules
2010 solar buyers guide
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41North American Clean Energy
KACO new energy
A powerful partner for PV system solutions,
KACO new energy has built a tradition of excel-
lence in the photovoltaic inverter and power
electronics industries. Their German-based
engineers have been developing, designing, and
manufacturing current inverters and power elec-
tronics for more than 60 years. With nearly 2GW
of PV inverters built KACO is the world’s second
largest manufacturer. The KACO blueplanet prod-
uct family has set new standards in PV applica-
tions—particularly in reliability, effi ciency, power
density, and patented technology to meet NEC
requirements. As the heart of a PV installation,
a KACO inverter pumps electricity into the public
grid continuously and effi ciently. The effi ciency of
the KACO blueplanet inverters will earn money
and a solid return on any solar investment.
www.kaco-newenergy.com
KUKA Systems
KUKA Systems is an international supplier of
fl exible production systems to the automotive,
aerospace, renewable energy, and other indus-
tries where automated processes add great
value. KUKA Systems’ workforce of 3,800 designs
and builds products and systems to automate
production. In the energy fi eld, KUKA supplies
engineering services, automated production mod-
ules, processing machines such as wafer saws
and stringers, as well as customized, turnkey
production lines for the PV, solar thermal, and
wind power industries. Their portfolio includes
robotic cells to perform every task associated
with assembling and testing PV panels. KUKA
Systems offers North American customers two
world-class businesses in one: a major global
supplier of advanced alternative energy produc-
tion technologies and a US-based integrator with
demonstrated expertise in adapting those tech-
nologies for local use.
www.kuka.com
Phono Solar
Phono Solar has been a producer of PV panels
since 2004. In addition to producing modules,
Phono Solar has expertise in BIPV glass panels,
wind turbines, and solar panel racking systems
that have been installed in large commercial
projects worldwide. The Phono Solar mission is
to provide customers with the highest quality PV
panel at the most competitive price. The 160-190
Mono series is a robust 72 cell PV panel that is
UL listed and designed for on-grid residential
and commercial applications. All panels carry a
25-year standard warranty. Visit the website for
additional information and distributor partners.
www.phonosolar.com
PLANSEE USA LLC
Fast process. High power. Maximum yield. With
its planar and rotary sputtering targets for thin
fi lm solar cells, PLANSEE contributes to optimum
sputtering results and an effi cient coating process.
The newest development: monolithic rotary targets
made of molybdenum. Their design without backing
tube pays off and includes: fully dense material
(leak proof); the highest mechanical strength;
improved thermal conductivity for a faster coating
process; the highest usage rates of 75% and more;
and, maximum cost effi ciency. With its R&D capa-
bilities and more than 25 years experience in physi-
cal vapour deposition, PLANSEE optimizes thin fi lm
materials according to customer requirements. The
company offers fully densifi ed materials with a uni-
form and fi ne grained structure and highest purity.
www.plansee.com
Schunk Graphite Technology
Schunk Graphite Technology and associated
members of the global Schunk Group manu-
facture a complete line of products used in the
production of photovoltaic wafers. These include
wafer carriers and boats for coating processes, a
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 41NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 41 1/13/10 8:10 PM1/13/10 8:10 PM
42 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
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full line of furnace components for crystal grow-
ing, as well as purifi ed products and those con-
taining either pyrolytic carbon or silicon carbide
coatings. Schunk manufactures the materials
used in these products and works with customers
to optimize products for the greatest effi ciency in
their processes. Schunk Graphite Technology sup-
ports their broad offering of products with sales,
customer service, and technical experts across all
of North America.
www.schunkgraphite.com
Trina Solar
Trina Solar Limited is a well-recognized manu-
facturer of high-quality modules, and has a long
history as a solar PV pioneer since it was founded
in 1997 as a system installation company. Trina
Solar is one of the few PV manufacturers that
have developed a vertically integrated business
model from the production of monocrystalline and
multicrystalline silicon ingots, wafers, and cells
to the assembly of high-quality modules. Trina
Solar’s products provide reliable and environmen-
tally friendly electric power for a growing variety
of end-user applications worldwide.
www.trinasolar.com
Air Liquide Industrial U.S. LP
Founded in 1902, currently present in over 75 coun-
tries with 43,000 employees, Air Liquide provides
gases for industry, health, and the environment.
Air Liquide Electronics serves the global high-tech
industries, such as photovoltaic, by offering ultra
pure and specialty gases, chemicals, and advanced
precursors, as well as providing gas and chemi-
cal handling equipment and related management
services. Through its division Balazs, Air Liquide
Electronics also offers state-of-the-art analytical
and lab services.
www.us.airliquide.com
ASYS Inc.
ASYS, a supplier for the photovoltaic industry,
employs approximately 700 people worldwide.
Specialized in the metallization process of solar
cells, ASYS provides scalable solutions ranging from
1,200 cells/hour all the way up to 4,600 cells/hour.
Their product portfolio includes loading/unloading
units, post print and micro crack inspection, screen
printers, dryers, laser edge isolation, cell testers and
sorters. With the lowest breakage rate in the indus-
try and more than 7 GW installed worldwide, ASYS
is a preferred partner for cell manufacturers.
www.asys-group.com
CHIORINO Inc.
CHIORINO, a company in the fi eld of conveyor and
transmission belts, specializes in the production of
silicone membranes for the lamination of PV panels.
The CHIORINO membranes offer the following ad-
vantages: excellent resistance to chemical agents
(ozone), resistance to high temperatures, high fl ex-
ibility, as well as keeping fl exibility consistent in
time and absolute dimensional stability. Combining
the study of new materials and advanced production
technologies, CHIORINO’s R&D Laboratories are
capable of delivering customized solutions accord-
ing to customer needs. The SOLAR 30 membranes
are usually available from stock and can be supplied
worldwide by contacting CHIORINO Inc.
www.chiorino.us
ConQuip, Inc.
ConQuip, Inc. is a custom engineering manufac-
turer delivering volume manufacturing solutions in
demanding, competitive industries. They develop
proven solutions, including: unwinds, winders,
coaters, laminators, slitters, and more. And all with
state-of-the-art tension control and ConQuip’s leg-
endary customer commitment.
www.conquip.com
2010 solar buyers guide
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43North American Clean Energy
cyberTECHNOLOGIES
cyberTECHNOLOGIES introduces new sensor tech-
nology optimized to inspect surface quality of PV
solar cells. The company has announced that it has
completed the qualifi cation of a new sensor that
greatly enhances the capability of the cyberSCAN
family of 3D surface metrology systems to measure
and inspect the surface quality of PV solar cells,
even after they are coated with anti-refl ective lay-
ers. The submicron measurement spot size in paral-
lel with the optimized optics of the sensor allow for
greatly improved x/y/z- resolution, and enhanced
process control during development and produc-
tion of PV solar cells. The measurement of surface
topography, 3D roughness of the textured cell, and
the dimensions and quality of bus and fi nger lines
is easily accomplished with the renowned, menu-
driven ScanCT Software Suite, either in a R&D or
automated production environments.
www.cybertechnologies.com
Dark Field Technologies
Haze measurement is critical for many applications,
including TCO on glass/fi lm/silicon. Conventional
haze measurement is performed off-line, on a small
sample of material, and manufacturers must make
a global quality judgment based on an insignifi cant
amount of product. Dark Field Technologies has
developed a revolutionary means to measure these
haze levels, on-line, real-time, 100%. The Dark Field
NxtGenTM Haze system generates a “haze map.”
Should the control limits be breached, the deviant
area of the product is shown as “red” on the haze
map and the system generates an alarm. The haze
map is stored in a data base for recall and the map
can be integrated with downstream systems to
ensure that only good product is shipped from the
plant.
www.darkfi eld.com
Despatch Industries
Despatch Industries has developed a portfolio of so-
lar cell manufacturing equipment that is consistently
recognized for exceptional performance, process
quality, maximum equipment up-time, and low cost
of ownership. They are a global supplier of fi ring
furnaces for the photovoltaic market. Despatch’s
Integrated, In-line Diffusion System features an
in-line doper and an infrared furnace. Their latest
offering is the UltraFlex Drying and Firing Furnace
with Microzone Technology, providing infi nite profi le
fl exibility and performance capabilities not previ-
ously attainable.
www.despatch.com
Dow Corning Corporation
One of the only companies in the world able to provide
silicon-based solutions throughout the entire photovoltaic
value chain, Dow Corning is investing to expand its portfo-
lio of total solution packages for solar cell manufacturing,
module assembly, and installation. Solution packages
are built on high-performance silicone products such as
encapsulants, adhesives, coatings, potting agents and
sealants, as well as next-generation solar grade silicon.
www.dowcorning.com/solar
Epoxy Technology Inc.
Epoxy Technology Inc., founded in 1966, is a global
manufacturer and custom formulator of Epoxy
Adhesives. EPO-TEK Specializes in adhesives for
photovoltaic assembly. They offer a complete line
of Electrically Conductive and Thermally Conductive
Materials for Die Attach, Ribbon Bonding, and Heat
Sinking applications to improve PV effi ciency. ISO
9001 Certifi ed. RoHS and REACH Compliant. LEAN
Mfg. Practices.
www.epotek.com
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44 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
General Cable
For more than a decade, General Cable has been
supplying innovative cable solutions that deliver
power from renewable energy sources to the grid.
That experience combined with a worldwide pres-
ence and extensive R&D program enable General
Cable to provide the most reliable and technologi-
cally advanced cable solutions to the global solar
energy market. As a company committed to environ-
mental stewardship and renewable energy, General
Cable has specifi cally designed its SunGen suite
of cabling products to effectively and effi ciently
link solar PV panels to the grid while being able to
withstand the harsh operating environments of solar
power applications. General Cable also offers a
wide range of industrial and utility wire and cables
that generates, transforms and delivers power from
the source all the electrical grid.
www.generalcable.com
Kinmac Solar
Kinmac Solar offers the following: Standard Photo-
voltaic Module (SPV), Design & Manufacture Build-
ing Integrated Photovoltaic Module (BIPV), Design &
Manufacture System Design, as well as Implemen-
tation Application Design & Manufacture.
www.kinmacsolar.com
Konarka Technologies, Inc.
Konarka develops and manufactures solar plastic
fi lms that convert light to energy—anywhere. As a
developer of polymer-based, organic photovoltaic
(OPV) technology that provides a source of renew-
able power in a variety of form factors, Konarka has
a broad portfolio of patents, technology licenses,
and an accomplished technical, scientifi c, and man-
ufacturing team. Manufactured at low-cost and low-
energy consumption, the company's Konarka Power
Plastic technology is lightweight, fl exible, scalable,
and adaptable for use in a variety of commercial,
industrial, government and consumer applications.
www.konarka.com
Madico, Inc.
Madico has been a pioneer in PV Backsheet
Laminates for over 20 years. Their technologies and
products are designed to be “leaner and greener”
than any other backsheet in the market, and their
award-winning technology has granted Madico
recognition in the industry for commitment to inno-
vation and quality. Madico has announced they have
been granted a patent for their Bright White Power
Boosting Technology. The bright white characteristic
of the EVA layer is proven to refl ect a portion of light
that falls into the spaces between the cells back
onto the cell for conversion. The EVA compound with
white pigments and fl uorescent agents allow for the
1% to 5% boost in panel power. The power boosting
technology can be found in the Protekt product line.
www.madicopv.com
Marathon Special Products
Marathon Special Products recently expanded
their Enclosed Power Distribution Block (PDB) line.
Along with enhanced touch-proof protection, these
blocks are UL LISTED and designed to meet new
spacing requirements with elevated SCCR ratings
per UL508A and NEC2005. Features include broader
wire range (3/0-14) and a modular design that al-
lows snapping of any number of poles together.
These blocks are UL compliant when used with fl ex-
ible stranded wires (Class G/H/I) and multiple wires
per opening. The new PDB’s can be used for many
applications including industrial control panels, so-
lar combiner boxes and inverter panels, wind power,
and other commercial applications.
www.marathonsp.com
MECASOLAR
MECASOLAR is a company dedicated to the design,
manufacture, and distribution of state-of-the-art
dual-axis solar trackers, seasonal single-axis azi-
muth trackers, and fi xed structures. Dual-axis solar
trackers enable photovoltaic solar energy production
to be increased by more than 35% with respect to
fi xed installations. On the other hand, seasonal sin-
gle-axis azimuth trackers increase production by 5%
more than the traditional single-axis trackers, and
28% more than a fi xed installation. MECASOLAR
fi xed structures are the most robust and fl exible on
the market. All the products designed and manufac-
tured by MECASOLAR offer a 10-year GUARANTEE
on parts and workmanship.
www.mecasolar.com
Megasonic Sweeping
Megasonic Sweeping has improved on traditional
megasonics by eliminating damage caused from the
power surges normally present in megasonic tanks.
Batch cleaning of silicon wafers without damage is
now possible by using Megasonic Sweeping pat-
ented technology. The benefi ts come from sweeping
the PZT array through a range of frequencies and
exciting each PZT at its natural resonant point. This
process eliminates shadowing and masking, and
promotes even power distribution throughout the
bath.
www.megasonicsweeping.com
Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA Inc.
Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics USA Inc. has an-
nounced the release of the UJ6 series of polycrys-
talline PV modules. Use of new cells, in combination
with an increase in module size, made it possible
to achieve power outputs of 212W, 218W, 225W,
230W, and 235W per module. The new modules
have been designed for medium- and large-scale
commercial installations. The main features of the
new modules series include: the use of four bus
bars to increase cell effi ciency, an improvement over
traditional 2 bus bar cells; the increase in module
size to 60 cells per module; a 4-layer junction box
for enhanced safety; 100% lead-free solder; and, a
high static load rating of 5.400 Pa.
www.mitsubishielectricsolar.com
2010 solar buyers guide
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 44 1/15/10 2:51 PM
45North American Clean Energy
There are Only Two Sources You Can Depend on
Any solar simulation system is only as good as its light source. Only EYE Lighting/Iwasaki Electric designs and manufactures the light source and optics system in addition to complete solar simulation equipment. This unique integrated approach ensures that your simulator is designed from inception around the proper lighting system for your particular application requirements.
And, with local engineering, manufacturing, and support, there is no reason to look any further.
Call today or visit www.eyelighting.com and click on the Solar Simulation Systems link to fi nd a solution to your solar simulation needs.
Employing light technology to create a safe, comfortable and sustainable environment.
ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2004, OHSAS 18001:2007 Certified; ISO 17025:2005 Accredited
...and We’re Not 93 Million Miles Away
Durability Performance
Testing
SOLAR SIMULATION
SYSTEMS
Batch/Continuous Process
Soak Systems
Production Line Performance
Testing
Cell/Module Qualifi cation
Testing
Urban Environment
SimulationTests
Quality Reliability Tests
of Building Materials
Quality Reliability Tests of Vehicles and Components
Cell/Module Output
Evaluation
MOCAP, Inc.
MOCAP’s Silicone X-Treme TapeX-Treme Tape is
a permanent, no-adhesive, self-bonding durable
all-weather wrap, which forms an air-tight and
moisture-proof seal. Silicone X-Treme Tape is UV re-
sistant, a Class H insulation, stays fl exible to -60°F
(-50°C) and won’t melt up to 500°F (260°C). Made
from a special, high-quality silicone compound, X-
Treme Tape is guaranteed for up to 25 years. Solar
Contractors and Installers use X-Treme Tape to
wrap, seal, and protect foam insulation and weath-
erproof electrical connections. Other applications
include preventing corrosion, bundling wires, seal-
ing hoses, ducts and joints, and repairing vacuum
and fl uid leaks on pipes and hoses. Many widths,
lengths, and color options.
www.mocap.com/silicone-tape
Perlast
Perlast V75SC is a clean, high-performance fl uoroe-
lastomer (FKM) material for solar panel manufac-
ture. Available in sizes up to 100-inch diameter, fully
molded, O-rings, and formed seals manufactured
within a class 1000 cleanroom environment on
a single tool, the elastomer is designed for CVD,
PECVD, and PVD vacuum deposition processes. It
offers low particulation in these critical sealing
applications, together with cost advantages over
perfl uoroelastomer seals. The white colored V75SC
provides thermal resistance up to 250°C, and high
levels of plasma and chemical resistance. Low com-
pression set and modulus ensure maximum sealing
effectiveness. V75SC can be used in static and
dynamic applications including door seals, slit valve
seals, lip seals, valves and pumps.
www.perlast.com
SEMI PV Group
SEMI PV Group has released a white paper on solar
feed-in tariffs to promote widespread awareness
and understanding of public policy best practices in
support of solar energy. The White Paper outlines
the PV Group’s summary of public policy principles
in support of PV power adoption and key best prac-
tices for feed-in tariff policy design. The white paper
download is available at www.pvgroup.org/News-
Archive/ctr_033406. The PV Group is a SEMI special
interest group that serves the PV supply chain. Par-
ticipating companies provide manufacturing equip-
ment, materials, cells, modules, sub-systems, and
components to the solar energy industry.
www.pvgroup.org
Shuttleworth, Inc.
Shuttleworth, Inc. has introduced a new line of
conveyor automation for thin fi lm and crystalline
solar panel handling. Founded in 1962, Shuttleworth
is the innovator of Slip-Torque, low line pressure,
accumulating conveyor systems. The company’s
headquarters is located in Huntington, Indiana, with
facilities in Belgium and offi ces in Malaysia. Ad-
ditional information about Shuttleworth is available
by visiting their website.
www.shuttleworth.com
Solar Metrology
Solar Metrology, a global provider of X-Ray Fluo-
rescence (XRF) analysis tools, expands its SMX XRF
tool portfolio for fi lm composition and thickness
measurement of CIGS PV depositions with the ad-
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 45 1/15/10 2:51 PM
46 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
dition of the System SMX-Remote static head ILH.
Solar Metrology’s System SMX-ILH is atmospheric
in-line x-ray fl uorescence (XRF) metrology tool plat-
form that provides composition and thickness meas-
urements for thin fi lm solar PV metal fi lm stacks on
fl exible roll to roll substrates such as stainless steel,
aluminum, and polyimide or rigid substrates such as
fl oat glass. SMX-ILH is designed to perform meas-
urements in an atmospheric environment, either
near-line or in-line. Remote SMX-ILH tool platform
models are designed to measure in either one static
location or across the gradient (points on a linear
line perpendicular to movement) of fl exible or rigid
glass substrates.
www.solarmetrology.com
Solartech Power, Inc.
Solartech Power is a PV manufacturer and is UL,
TUV, IEC, as well as CE certifi ed. The company offers
grid and off-grid solar panels from 5, 10, 20, 30, 40,
50, 60, 70, 80, 100, 110, 120, 130, 180, 190, 200,
210w, and more—all UL approved. Custom-made
specifi cations are welcomed.
www.solartechpower.com
VAT
VAT’s SolVAT, a new transfer valve product, was
designed for the thin fi lm solar cell manufacturing
sector that targets the widest range substrate sizes
currently in production. SolVAT’s modular design
offers a best fi t to customer applications. Options
and features include: slit sizes between 45mm to
150mm in height and 1000mm to 3000mm in length;
aluminum or stainless steel body, as well as cooled
body and gate, various valve body coatings, and
an O-Ring free gate; and, shaft-sealed or bellows-
sealed actuators to take into account variations
in chamber environments. The SolVAT has all the
attributes to enhance system performance, can be
tailored to meet customer applications, and is com-
petitively priced. Additionally, VAT offers an insert
version to bring additional cost and space savings.
www.vatvalve.com
RESEARCH & PROJECT DEVELOPMENT/SOLAR INTEGRATION
Alfa Aesar
Alfa Aesar, a Johnson Matthey Company, has pub-
lished a “High Purity Materials for Photovoltaics”
brochure highlighting Alfa Aesar’s offering of chemi-
cals and metals for use in the PV industry. The eight-
page brochure lists over 150 products used in devel-
opment of a variety of crystalline silicon, CIGS, and
CdTe solar cells. Products include both compounds
and pure metals in a variety of forms, purities, and
quantities. Additional specialized compounds and
metals can be found at the company website.
www.alfa.com
Arizona Solar Power Society
The Arizona Solar Power Society plans to launch a
“Go Solar in Arizona” initiative in January to expand
its solar community outreach programs across
Arizona, which have been successful in the Greater
Phoenix area over the past 12 months. Early next
year the group plans to launch a new website and
conduct a public service PR campaign to educate
Arizona residents and businesses on the benefi ts of
using solar power. Their goal is simple: to see solar
installed on 9,000 rooftops by the end of 2010. With
a minimum 3% increase per year, electricity bills
will double by the year 2035. Investing in solar now
can freeze rates for the next 25 years. Plus, funds
are available that can be used for up to 75% to 80%
of system/installation costs.
www.gosolarinarizona.com
Cincinnati Sub-Zero (CSZ)
Cincinnati Sub-Zero provides a full range of envi-
ronmental test equipment including temperature
cycling, humidity, altitude simulation, thermal shock,
industrial freezers, and more. CSZ manufactures so-
lar product test chambers that are designed to meet
IEC 61646, 61215, 61208, UL 1703, and other solar
test specifi cations. Sizes range from small benchtop
chambers to full walk-in rooms. CSZ also provides
environmental testing services through their A2LA
Accredited test laboratory, CSZ Testing Services.
www.cszindustrial.com
Inovateus Solar
Inovateus Solar, one of the fastest growing solar
power distributors and integrators based in the Mid-
west, is one of the few US distributors and integra-
tors of the UNI-SOLAR fl exible thin-fi lm photovoltaic
laminate roofi ng systems. The company also has
strategic distribution relationships with a variety
of the largest solar technology manufacturers dis-
tributing worldwide: Uni-Solar, Kyocera, Scheuten
Solar, Suntech, Sun Power, along with PV panels
and inverter manufacturers such as Solectria, SMA,
Xantrex, and Satcon. They also work with various
systems monitoring software fi rms.
www.inovateussolar.com
SemiconSoft, Inc.
SemiconSoft, Inc., is a manufacturer of software
and optical systems for thin fi lm measurement.
Based in Massachusetts, Semiconsoft offers custom
confi guration and integration with other metrology
or production systems. A spectral refl ectometer
(MProbe) system was developed to improve yield
of thin fi lm solar manufacturing. MProbe features a
broad spectral range of 200nm to 1700 nm—high
precision and affordably priced. MProbe can be used
to measure the thickness and composition of trans-
lucent materials, ranging from thickness of 0.005μm
to 400μm. Typical applications include CIGS, CdS,
TCO (ZnO, ITO), CdTe, and aSi measurement. The
MProbe software includes an extensive materials
library; supports creation of parameterized materials
and can be used in desktop or server mode.
www.semiconsoft.com
2010 solar buyers guide
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 46NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 46 1/13/10 8:11 PM1/13/10 8:11 PM
47North American Clean Energy
Solar energy solutionsAluminum extrusion support structures, frames, and mounting components for the renewable energy sector
Aluminum extrusions offer a high strength-to-weightratio, excellent formability, good corrosion resistance,and design flexibility. And Hydro extrusions are madefrom our own primary-grade billet which contains morethan 70% recycled content.
Hydro is the leading supplier of extruded aluminumstructural components for utility-scale CSP’s, with over300 MW of installed power to date, and manufacturesa variety of components for PV mounting solutions. Inaddition to high-quality components and a reliablesupply, our dedicated solar unit can provide:
• Technical, design, and concept prototyping support• Extrusion, fabrication, and finishing• Raw material management and component
procurement• Warehousing, kitting, and JIT delivery• Assistance with on-site installation and
on-going support
Partner with Hydro and take your next solar project to anew level.
HydroSolar Solutions249 S. 51st. Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85043Phone: (800) 459-3030 • Fax: (602) 269-0220E-mail: [email protected]/northamerica/solar
Helping harness the power of the sun!
Bottom photo: Abengoa Solar’s PT1 solar trough used for industrial applications
SOFTWARE
The SolarPathfi nder Company
The Solar Pathfi nder and Assistant software provide
a panoramic refl ection of a site for a full year of
accurate solar/shade data. The Solar Pathfi nder
gives an entire year’s solar potential for any site in
just seconds. Because the Solar Pathfi nder works on
a refl ective principle rather than actually showing
shadows, it can be used anytime of the day, anytime
of the year, in either cloudy or clear weather. The
actual position of the sun at the time of the solar
site analysis is irrelevant. In fact, the unit fully
performs in the absence of direct sunlight allowing
installers to take full advantage of their most
precious commodity—time.
www.solarpathfi nder.com
SOLAR COLLECTORS/INVERTERS
PV Powered, Inc.
PV Powered, Inc. announced a new fl agship
product in its growing family of commercial
solar inverters. The PVP260kW inverter delivers
industry leading 97% CEC effi ciency at 295VDC,
and full power production at 265VDC and 50°C.
Its unprecedented level of thermal operating
margin and redundant system design enable
full power operation for 20-plus years across
a -30 to +50°C operating temperature range.
The highly integrated inverter saves installers
time and money by including load rated AC &
DC service disconnects, neutral-free installa-
tion, oversized busbar landings, and generous
cabling options. These features, combined with
integrated support for performance monitoring,
deliver maximum uptime, energy harvest, and
return on investment for commercial and utility
scale solar installations.
www.pvpowered.com
Satcon Technology Corporation
Satcon Technology Corporation has announced
the general availability of Satcon Solstice, the
industry’s fi rst complete utility grade solar PV
solution for large-scale solar power plants. Sat-
con Solstice revolutionizes energy production,
while utilizing traditional solar design. It delivers
fi ne grained power harvesting and control with
advanced utility ready grid interconnection, and
will boost total power production by 5% to 12%
over designs using standard inverters while, at
the same time, reduce overall system material
costs. Building on Satcon’s solar PV inverter tech-
nologies, Solstice is the industry’s fi rst complete
power conversion system, utilizing Satcon’s next
generation inverter and unique subcombiners,
called SSBs, which are populated with Satcon’s
proprietary dc to dc power converters. Satcon
Solstice is now available in North America, and
will be available in Europe and Asia in the fi rst
half of 2010.
www.satcon.com/pv_inverters/solstice.html
Anderson Power Products
Anderson Power Products SPEC Pak connector
series are designed for use wherever a rugged or
waterproof high-power, signal, and ground intercon-
nect solution is required. The seal on the SPEC Pak
connector shell is rated as IP 67, making it protected
against dust and the effect of immersion between 15
centimeters and one meter. The shell accommodates
wire ranging from #24 to #10 (AWG) or 0.25 to 4
mm², providing users with thousands of possible de-
sign solutions in a single interconnect. The 4-position
shell handles up to 25 amps when fully loaded with
#10 AWG, and the 6-position shell handles up to 45
amps. The receptacle utilizes an industry standard
panel cut-out, 26482/5015 shell (size 20) for the 4-po-
sition and shell (size 24) for the 6-position.
www.andersonpower.com
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 47NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 47 1/13/10 8:11 PM1/13/10 8:11 PM
48 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
PLUMBING HVAC/R COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL MARINE OIL&GAS SOLAR
KFAD-0041-0809
products provide a quick and easy solution when insulating both residential and commercial solar hot water sys-tems. All products are designed to minimize heat loss and simplify installation of fluid recirculation lines connecting the solar panels and the storage tank. For more information, contact K-Flex USA today and receive your free sample of .
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Heliodyne
Heliodyne is a US manufacturer of solar water
heating equipment. Their offi ces and manufacturing
plant are located in the San Francisco Bay Area,
and they manufacture and assemble a variety of
solar water heating products. Heliodyne not only
encompasses fl at plate collectors, but also heat
transfer appliances. All of their collectors and heat
transfer appliances are SRCC certifi ed, ensuring that
their products are built to the highest standards.
The equipment they manufacture is suitable for all
applications including residential, commercial, and
industrial purposes.
www.heliodyne.com
Smart Energy Inc.
Smart Energy Inc.’s primary line of service and prod-
ucts include simulation software for PV and solar
thermal installations. Working with a manufacturer
of solar thermal systems in Germany, they are of-
fering one of the most effi cient fl at plate collectors
with anti-refl ex-coating. For companies interested
in the production of fl at plate absorbers or collec-
tors, they are the US representation for a turnkey
machine builder.
www.smarttenergy.com
SOLAR GLASS/ENCAPSULATION
Safl ex Solar Encapsulants
Safl ex serves the photovoltaic sector by developing du-
rable encapsulating solutions for solar module produc-
tion. With proven 3G PVB technology, unmatched global
network of technical specialists, and the world’s largest
PVB manufacturing base for encapsulants, Safl ex is
uniquely positioned to help solve the challenges of a
fast-growing and ever-changing solar energy market.
www.safl ex.com
XYG Glass
XYG Glass is the North America subsidiary of XINYI
Glass Holding Limited, who is manufacturing PV
Glass and supply to PV module manufacturers in
USA, Canada, Europe, Japan, and China. Obtained
SPF U-1 Solar Glass Designation & CE Marking with
solar transmittance effi ciency > 91%. ISO 9001:2000
certifi ed, tempered glass complies to ASTM C1048-04
and EN12150 safety glass standards. XINYI Glass is
worldwide one of the largest PV glass manufacturers,
with newly expanded Low-iron Pattern Glass produc-
tion capacity to 620,000 sq. ft. per day.
www.xygglass.com
SOLAR HOT WATER DISTRIBUTORS
Helios Solar
Helios Solar imports and markets a wide variety of
high-quality solar thermal components to the whole-
sale and contractor market segments in Canada and
the USA. Products include differential controllers,
integrated pump groups, evacuated tube collectors,
motorized valves, heat exchangers, and packaged
systems. Brand name products from leading Euro-
pean, Asian, and North American manufacturers in-
clude SOREL, BRV, Sunlight Solar Energy Co. Ltd., and
Cyrius Thermal Systems. For distributor, wholesale,
and OEM inquiries, please visit the company website.
www.heliossolar.com
2010 solar buyers guide
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 48NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 48 1/13/10 8:11 PM1/13/10 8:11 PM
49North American Clean Energy
KIOTO Clear Energy S.A. de C.V.
KIOTO Clear Energy is the mother company of the
solar thermal collector manufacturer GREENoneTEC
in Austria. KIOTO provides rapid and pragmatic solu-
tions for customer-specifi c requirements and, as
an OEM partner, a dependable long-term approach
based on cooperation. As such, they offer customers
adequate production capacity of world-class standard
and the widest range of SRCC certifi ed solar thermal
collectors adapted to the needs of regional markets.
www.kioto.com
Premium Solar LLC
Premium Solar LLC, based in Tallahassee, Florida,
has signed an agreement with Ezinc, a manufacturer
of solar thermal components, to serve as a master
distributor for Ezinc’s thermosiphon solar hot water
systems in the Southern US. Ezinc has been serv-
ing the European industry for over 25 years. Ezinc’s
systems are FSEC-certifi ed and SRCC-certifi ed.
The units feature high effi ciency and require little
maintenance. The closed-loop, passive system uses
natural water circulation to heat the water and does
not require a pump or control unit. Thermosyphon
systems are one of the most widely used solar hot
water heating systems around the world, especially
in Israel, India, Australia, and Turkey.
www.presolarnet.com
Rovanco Piping Systems
Rovanco Piping Systems, in Joliet, is a manufacturer
of pre-fabricated, pre-insulated piping systems. Rov-
anco systems are manufactured with HiTherm high
temp foam insulation that meets the requirements
of ASTM E-84 25 fl ame and 50 smoke standards.
Rovanco has a nationwide network of sales repre-
sentatives and fast delivery turnaround capabilities,
and has been a pre-insulated pipe manufacturer for
forty years. Rovanco is also the US distributor of
Rhinofl ex Flexible Piping Systems.
www.rovanco.com
Skyreach Solar
Skyreach Solar are distributors and installers of vacu-
um solar thermal systems with over 30 years experi-
ence, from regular domestic to large hotel and dairy
projects. Over the years, their system has been fi ne
tuned with their manufacturing partner to provide a
high-quality product—with not only one of the best
power curves in its class, but also with a very com-
petitive pricing structure. Solar keymarked in Europe
and SRCC expected in early 2010, Skyreach Solar is
looking for distributors nationwide to embrace and
fully realize the potential of this exciting opportunity.
www.skyreachsolar.com
SOLAR HOT WATER INSTALLERS
K-Flex USA
K-Flex Solar products provide a quick and easy
way to insulate both residential and commer-
cial solar hot water systems. All products are
designed to minimize heat loss and simplify
installation of fl uid recirculation lines connecting
the solar panels and the storage tank. The fac-
tory applied jacket protects the insulation from
the elements such as UV, mechanical abuse, and
moisture. K-Flex USA’s K-Flex Solar product line
can be used to install a hot water system in half
the time of regular insulation systems. To fi nd
out more about our products, contact K-Flex USA
today.
www.kfl exusa.com
Apricus Inc.
At Apricus, they make the distribution, design, and
integration of solar thermal systems easier than
ever with their turnkey systems. Now available
with a pumping and control station designed and
manufactured locally in the USA by Watts Radiant,
an Apricus solar system is more reliable and easier
Solar mounting systems
Upcoming Exhibitions:Photon’s Photovoltaic Technology Show 2010 USA
February 2 – 4, 2010, San Francisco
Intersolar Munich
June 9 – 10, 2010, Munich
Intersolar North America
July 13 – 15, 2010, San Francisco
NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 49NACE Jan Feb 2010.indd 49 1/13/10 8:12 PM1/13/10 8:12 PM
50 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
INTRODUCING THE ACCELERA© 300 HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER:ACCELERATE YOUR SAVINGS!
• REDUCES HOT WATER COSTS BY UP TO 80 %
• COOLS AND DEHUMIDIFIES THE AIR AROUND IT
• LOW STAND-BY LOSSES THROUGH GOOD INSULATION
• 80 GALLON STORAGE CAPACITY
• 6 YEAR WARRANTY
The new Accelera® 300 can extract up to 80% of its energy requirements from the air around it. Heat pumps have been around for decades, but a heat pump water heater is a brand new concept. The Accelera® 300 works like an air conditioner - but instead of dumping the heat outdoors, it puts it into the water.
Energy from nature.
The Accelera’s compressor and fan consume only 1 kWh of electricity to generate the heat equivalent of 3 – 5 kWh. The efficiency of the unit goes up with increasing ambient air temperatures. This ground breaking efficiency redefines what a water heater is capable of, and what savings can really mean !
The new math: 1 = 4
TOLL FREE 800.582.8423 www.stiebel-eltron-usa.com
Simply the Best
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Surge Protection
Lightning Protection
to install than ever before. With Apricus, helping
customers go green has never felt so good—and ex-
panding business has never been so easy. Hot wa-
ter, powered by the sun, and delivered by Apricus.
www.apricus.com
SOLAR THERMAL ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
Dawn Solar Systems, Inc.
Dawn Solar Systems Building Integrated Solar Ther-
mal and PV Combined Heat and Power systems have
the capability of delivering heating for DHW and ra-
diant fl oor heating, cooling, and electricity from the
same footprint as part of the building envelope.
They are unique in the industry.
www.dawnsolar.com
Easyfl ex
Easyfl ex Solar Line, is the fi rst and only IAPMO/
UPC tested and approved fl exible stainless steel
tubing system. Featuring a push-on fi tting design,
three different options of EPDM insulation, and
UVA/UVB protective coating. Without the need for
split rings or fl aring mechanisms, Easyfl ex Solar
Line can cut installation time in half. Built upon their
internationally popular plumbing system, Easyfl ex
corrugated stainless steel combines the fl exibility of
plastic with the durability of copper.
easyfl exusa.com
Refl ecTech, Inc.
Refl ecTech, Inc. makes the only high-refl ectance
(94%) mirror fi lm proven for outdoor use in solar
concentrators. Commercially proven and light-
weight, unbreakable Refl ecTech Mirror Film makes
fragile glass mirrors obsolete. Complete with a
peel-off mask to protect the mirror surface during
processing, transportation, and installation, the fi lm
is self-adhesive for easy application to many sub-
strates and is available in 48", 59", and 60" widths.
Developed through cooperative research with NREL.
www.refl ectechsolar.com
SOLAR THERMAL MANUFACUTER & EQUIPMENT
Simply the Best
Stiebel Eltron
The next generation Tempra and new Tempra Plus
models are now available. Enhancements include:
output to 140°, upgraded heavy duty electronics,
single fl ow sensor, easy access hinged cover, and
a larger inlet fi lter screen. Tempra Plus models
have a digital display for °F or °C readout and Ad-
vanced Flow Control to automatically adjust fl ow
rate to maintain set point temperature. Further, the
Tempra series is now an ideal back-up for solar
thermal systems. Stiebel Eltron Tempra tankless,
on-demand, electric water heaters are designed
for whole house and various commercial applica-
tions. The Tempra features the latest advanced
microprocessor control that allows the exact water
temperature to be set via a dial on the front cover.
The advanced technology ensures that the water
temperature will not deviate from the set point.
www.stiebel-eltron-usa.com
Applied Spectra
Applied Spectra simplifi es elemental measurements of
many types of thin fi lms used in solar/PV manufactur-
ing. Their fl agship product, the RT100-HP LIBS (Laser
Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) instantaneously
performs elemental analysis without sample prepara-
tion. It is very effective for low-Z elements such as C,
B, and Na. Learn how this tool tackles metal impurity
detection, as well as major elemental analysis for: CIGS,
CdTe, Poly-crystalline Si, Micro-crystalline Si (mc-Si), III-
V compound InGaAsP, and Amorphous Si (a-Si) matrices.
www.appliedspectra.com
2 45
2 4
3
1
DS60PV
DS50PVV
DS50PVDS50PV
DS
DLA
DS40S/G
DS150E
M200
1 AC Distribution Panel
2 Inverter AC Output
Inverter DC Input4
PV Array Combiner 5
3 Data/Signal Lines
Reliability In Surge Protection
Photon Expo | Feb. 2-4
Moscone Center | San Francisco, CA
Visit CITEL Level 1, Row L, Booth# 8
800.248.3548 | www.citel.us
A comprehensive approach to the application of lightning and surge protection will help to ensure the maximum life expectancy and efficiency for your solar PV power system. The following illustration details the application points for the surge protectors and the primaryprotection goal of each device.
Surge Protection Since 1937
Are you protected?
Toll Free 1 800.248.3548 | Fax: 954.430.7785www.citel.us | [email protected]
2010 solar buyers guide
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51North American Clean Energy
Be a jump ahead - visit our new website
Controllers for solar thermal systems
Pump stations and heat exchange modules
Solar- and differential temperature controllers
Additional modules such as remote display modules, dataloggers, etc.
Solargenix Energy, LLC
Solargenix Energy is a pioneer in solar trough tech-
nology and in the solar industry market. Their expe-
rience and activities cover applications that range
from utility scale power generation to residential
rooftop installations. In 2007, Solargenix developed
the 64 MW Nevada Solar One project in Boulder
City, Nevada. Since 2004, Solargenix has operated
a solar thermal collector manufacturing facility in
Chicago. The facility also serves as the company’s
research and product development center.
www.solargenix.com
SunEarth, Inc.
SunEarth directly manufactures or provides four of
the fi ve leading solar thermal system technologies
including forced-circulation glycol and drainback,
integral collector storage (ICS), and thermsiphon
systems. Their customers want and deserve prod-
ucts and systems that are climate appropriate.
SunEarth believes in offering a choice of solutions.
The company presently has three primary market
channels: SunEarth sells directly to traditional
plumbing wholesalers, specialty solar wholesalers,
and “volume contractors.” SunEarth celebrated its
30th anniversary in 2008.
www.sunearthinc.com
TEMPERATURE PROFILING
Datapaq, Inc.
Datapaq, a global supplier of temperature profi ling
systems, has introduced three new products for pho-
tovoltaic cell and module manufacturers. The new
innovative SolarPaq systems provide temperature-
profi ling solutions for contact fi ring, anti-refl ective
coating, and lamination processes used in PV cell
and module manufacturing. These operations are all
key to the quality and performance of the fi nal PV
cell and module.
www.datapaq.com
TRANSPORTATION/LOGISTICS
FlexLink Systems, Inc.
Manufacturing of the cell and thin fi lm modules
for the solar industry relies on a gentle production
process. This can be handled with FlexLink’s plastic
chain conveyor technology. Step-by-step automation
of assembly and test lines allow a one-piece fl ow
for inverters. All solutions are always verifi ed by
using simulation software. FlexLink can increase ca-
pacity with fewer operators, using less fl oor space.
Their standard conveyor modules make it easy to
design and, if needed, change the layout. With Flex-
Link solutions, handle cells, modules, and inverters.
www.fl exlink.com
Union Pacifi c Railroad
Union Pacifi c Railroad, the largest railroad in North
America, in conjunction with Union Pacifi c Distribution
Services (UPDS), specializes in rail-based logistics
solutions for customers who demand top performance
from their transportation suppliers. They participate in
a variety of high-touch markets that require specialized
handling including solar energy, wind energy, and auto-
motive. Their suite of products provides total logistics
solutions by combining rail carload, intermodal, and
truckload carriers, and their technology solutions offer
shipment visibility to support effi cient supply chains.
Whether it is to move solar panels, towers, troughs
or dishes, Union Pacifi c Railroad and UPDS have the
solution. And, they can do all of this in a safe and
timely manner while utilizing the most environmentally
friendly mode of transportation available.
www.up.com
UTILITY SCALE SOLAR/PV
CSI SOLAR POWER SYSTEMS
The CSI Solar Tracking System is a unique, reli-
able, and robust product designed for utility scale
solar energy projects. The Dual Axis Tracker
(DAT-125) features a segmental ballast base de-
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PLANSEE USA LLC., Franklin, MA 02038, USA
Tel.: 508 553-3800, Fax: 508 553-3823
[email protected], www.plansee.com
Where others
run on empty,
our targets
still perform.
PLANSEE rotary and planar sputteringtargets offer:
- Best target utilization through optimized geometries
- Full density and high purity
- Homogenous microstructure
signed specifi cally for Landfi lls, Brownfi elds, and
Superfund sites. CSI Solar Power Systems’ Model
DAT-125 delivers a nominal power output average
of 12.5 kW per tracker. The proprietary segmen-
tal ballast base of the DAT-125 is a non-ground
penetrating, low ground pressure substructure.
The tracker system has the advantage of captur-
ing the rising or setting of the sun from a low
angle of 10°, as opposed to signifi cantly higher
angles found in most systems that ultimately
capture much shorter periods of energy. It is also
designed to withstand 90mph winds when posi-
tioned vertically and winds in excess of 200mph
when stowed in the horizontal position.
www.csisolarpowersystems.com
Hydro
Hydro is a supplier of support structures for utility
scale CSP frames and PV unit installation mount-
ing systems for the renewable energy sector. With
a solar unit committed to delivering innovative
energy solutions, Hydro provides: technical, de-
sign, and concept prototyping support; extrusion,
fabrication, and fi nishing of frame components;
raw material management, and component pro-
curement; warehousing, kitting, and JIT delivery.
www.hydro.com/northamerica/solar
KACO new energy
A powerful partner for PV system solutions,
KACO new energy has built a tradition of excel-
lence in the photovoltaic inverter and power
electronics industries. Their German-based
engineers have been developing, designing, and
manufacturing current inverters and power elec-
tronics for more than 60 years. With nearly 2GW
of PV inverters built KACO is the world’s second
largest manufacturer. The KACO XP series central
inverters currently power PV systems in100 kW
increments. The XP 100kW inverter is one of the
industry’s top digitally controlled central inverter.
Remote monitoring and software control give the
XP series the ease of use that installers want
and the mechanical and electrical specifi cations
that designers need. Contact KACO today to learn
more about how to use the XP inverter series in a
commercial or utility scale solar project.
www.kaco-newenergy.com
MSE Power Systems, Inc.
MSE Power Systems has extensive experience
working with developers on the electrical design
of utility grade projects, ranging from 5 MW to
500 MW. MSE recently secured a 6 MW solar
project in PA where their role includes design/
concept, complete installation, including a to-
tal plant EPC wrap, site civil/structural design
work, and overall project management. MSE’s
involvement in solar is a natural extension of
their proven success in the wind market, where
the company is responsible for connecting ap-
proximately 22% of all existing North American
wind power. MSE’s proven track record for speed-
to-grid and project management expertise will
prove invaluable to solar expansion. MSE is well
positioned to serve the primary solar markets
with three offi ces located in the south: Deerfi eld
Beach, FL, Phoenix, AZ, and Houston, TX.
www.msepower.com
SMA America
SMA America has expanded its utility product line
with the Sunny Central 500HE-US. The new invert-
er couples to an external medium voltage trans-
former to accommodate long distance power feeds
to distribution substations, making it ideal for util-
ity installations. Two units can also be combined in
a packaged solution with only one double-winding
transformer to form a megawatt station. The 500
kilowatt solar inverter also features the industry’s
best effi ciency in the medium voltage category.
www.sma-america.com
Solectria Renewables
The Solectria Renewables Smart Grid PV invert-
ers are designed specifi c to utility scale and com-
mercial PV projects. Units are strategically sized
at 266kW, 300kW, and 500kW. The SmartGrid
series is packed with advanced features such as
Ethernet connection, MODBUS RTU & SCADA
interface. Utility customers will appreciate added
VAR support, low voltage ride-through, as well
as remote command and remote control. Speci-
fi cations include 97% effi ciency inclusive of an
integrated isolation transformer, multiple-core
intelligence with auto-assignable master-slave
power electronics modules, grid-based battery
storage control, and the smallest footprint and
weight for a 500kW inverter. Web-based options
include integrated SolrenView web-based moni-
toring, revenue-grade monitoring, SOLZONE sub
array current monitoring, PV weather monitoring,
as well as third party monitoring compatibility
and API feeds.
www.solren.com
Sun Storage
Oregon-based Sun Storage offers PV racking
technology. Recognized across the industry for
innovative BIPV residential systems and park-
ing arrays, the company recently introduced its
1.25 MW block system for power generation
facilities. Each system combines Sun Storage
proprietary racking systems with the option for
either foundation or pile driven installations.
Sun Storage works with its production partners
to create a pre-designed package of US-made
components, which allows for rapid commission-
ing while continuing its tradition of meeting the
need for systems that are robust, architecturally
appealing, and cost-effective per watt. Sun Stor-
age’s pre-engineered line now spans 1.5kW to
1.25 MW, and the company has designed and
coordinated the implementation of systems up to
22 MW in size.
www.sunstorage.org
a+f GmbH
The Wuerzburg-based (Germany) a+f GmbH, a
company of the GILDEMEISTER group, is specialized
on development, planning, sales, installation, as
well as operation and maintenance of solar power
plants. The products of the SunCarrier line are verti-
cal single-axis tracking systems, which continuously
adjust the surface of their up to 287,5 sqm surface
of solar modules to the current position of the sun
and, as a result, achieve an additional yield of up
to 35%. With the SkyCarrier the company offers a
horizontal single-axis tracking system that has been
especially designed for equatorial areas.
www.af.net
AWS Truewind, LLC
AWS Truewind offers solar energy consulting with
over 20 years of experience. With a professional
staff of engineers, meteorologists, analysts, and en-
vironmental specialist, the company is fi eld-oriented
and fully conversant with utility and large-scale
commercial projects, electrical systems, remote fi eld
measurements, and distributed applications. AWS
Truewind offers comprehensive consulting services
that support the complete project lifecycle includ-
ing resource analysis, solar resource measurement
campaigns, feasibility studies, long-term energy pro-
duction analysis, system design and specifi cation,
transmission and grid integration studies, due dili-
gence review, and solar power forecasting. With the
use of rigorous validation methods, AWS Truewind
will mitigate risk to ensure projects are viewed with
greater confi dence. Find out how AWS Truewind can
meet strategic objectives.
www.awstruewind.com
Bryce Fastener, Inc.
Bryce Fastener offers theft protection of solar pan-
els through a lock and key security fastener that
is easy to install. There is no need for other costly
security measures.
www.brycefastener.com
Magnetek, Inc.
Magnetek’s E-Force Solar Inverter Magnetek’s E-
Force Solar Inverter for grid-tied PV systems is spe-
cifi cally designed for commercial and utility scale
solar applications such as big box retailers, offi ce
buildings, industrial facilities, and ground-mount in-
stallations. E-Force Solar is available in both 500kW
and 1 MW models and it is based on Magnetek’s
E-Force Wind Inverter platform, which has over 150
MW installed in the US. The E-Force inverter offers
high power density in a compact size for application
fl exibility and its rugged design insures maximum
reliability. The E-Force Inverter’s fi eld-proven design
increases the electrical power that is available from
large solar arrays, reduces the time and cost of in-
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53North American Clean Energy
stallation, and assures a long service life. For more
information or a quotation visit the company site.
www.magnetekrenewableenergy.com
Solar Power Partners, Inc.
As one of America’s premier independent solar
power producers, Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP)
develops, owns, and operates distributed solar
energy facilities and sells solar-generated electricity
through solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
Solar Power Partners helps public and private enter-
prises embrace solar with fi nancing, comprehensive
project development, and facility management. By
partnering with SPP, utilities, schools, universities,
water districts, airports, and commercial buildings
can realize the cost and environmental benefi ts of
clean solar energy at a predictable price and with-
out the capital outlay or risk of owning and operat-
ing a power plant.
www.solarpowerpartners.com
OTHERSolar resource assessment & forecasting
3TIER
3TIER offers weather-driven renewable energy
assessment and forecasting. Using sophisticated
computers, in-house expertise, and reliable
delivery mechanisms, they maximize the value
of renewable resources and mitigate the risks of
their inherent variability. Using a global, satellite-
derived solar dataset, they offer prospecting,
assessment, and forecasting solutions for every
budget and project size. In addition to irradiance
values, 3TIER delivers wind speed and tempera-
ture data and can incorporate observational data
for unparalleled accuracy. Founded in 1999, 3TIER
is a private company based in Seattle with offi ces
around the world.
www.3tier.com
Alternative energy training classes
Ameri-Skills Solar & Wind Training
Ameri-Skills is offering a turnkey solar training
program that can be utilized by community colleges,
universities, trade schools, adult continuing educa-
tion, Workforce Investment Act (WIA), and Veteran
Affairs Education Assistance programs to start-up
new solar training classes in their community. The
program allows any school to begin a solar train-
ing program that teaches students the basics for
installing solar PV electric systems. The Ameri-Skills
turnkey solar training program provides a certifi ed
instructor, training manuals, “hands-on” exercises,
and the ETA International solar entry level certifi ca-
tion for students who pass the ETA Level I PV In-
staller Certifi cation exam. Ameri-Skills will also help
schools participate in Federal Workforce Investment
Act programs, which gives students access to
$3,000 to $5,000 (approx.) for tuition to learn a skill
for jobs in the solar electric (PV), solar thermal, or
alternative energy technologies.
www.ameriskillstech.com
Solar support structures
Baja Construction
Baja Construction offers high-quality and afford-
able steel shading structures. The company has
engineered a solar support system that revolution-
izes the installation of PV with the use of American
recycled steel. Baja will custom design, engineer,
supply, and install Solar Support Systems to shade
vehicles (of all heights) and provide utility scale
ground mount solutions. PV is mounted directly to
Baja’s Solar Support System with a patent-pending
connection that delivers minimal impact to the site
and maximum effi ciencies for installation.
www.bajacarports.com
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54 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Surge protection
Reliability In Surge Protection
CITEL, Inc.
Since 1937 CITEL, Inc. has been specializing in
the manufacturing of reliable Surge Protection
Devices (SPD). CITEL, Inc. has since expanded its
surge protector line to include models DS60PV
and DS50PV, two wire and ground DC power
surge protectors for applications up to 1000
Vdc. Designed for the most severe applications,
DS60PV is a Heavy Duty DC surge protector, rated
to withstand a direct lightning strike (10/350us
waveform) as defi ned by ANSI/IEEE C62.41-2002
and IEC 61643-11. It is typically installed at the
DC input to the inverter of a solar power system.
For more general duty applications, DS50PV is
surge rated at 40kA 8/20us and engineered to
protect against indirect lightning, ac utility grid
surges, and internally generated switching tran-
sients and faults. These din rail mount devices
can be integrated into a PV combiner box or stan-
dalone enclosure.
www.citel.us
Foundation construction supply
Con-Tech Systems
Con-Tech Systems supplies foundation solutions
for solar collection systems. Their CTS/TITAN
Hollow Bar IBO Injection Bore System is very well
suited for anchoring solar collectors. They sug-
gest designs with simple layout and, therefore,
allow for a high production rate systems in vari-
ous ground conditions. Con-Tech Systems also
offers effi cient anchoring solutions for transmis-
sion line towers.
www.contechsystems.com
Micro inverters
Direct Grid Technologies
Direct Grid Technologies’ new OEM and SMART
DGA Series micro-inverters are ideal for thin fi lm
PV manufacturers and original equipment manu-
facturers. These products use an innovative closed
loop MOSFET planar micro-inverter design (patent
pending), and a low packaging profi le for direct rear-
PV panel mounting and low thermal emission that
produce signifi cantly less heat than other micro-
inverters. The OEM 200 and 300 DGA Series has a
stand-alone unit that inverts PV DC voltage to AC,
with a maximum of 240- or 360-watt power genera-
tion for direct grid-tied applications. Other features
include self-tuning maximum power point tracking,
auto-frequency detect and sync, and anti-islanding
safeguards in the event of power outages or emer-
gencies. The SMART 200 and 300 DGA Series incor-
porate additional Echelon communication for theft
deterrence and remote PV monitoring.
www.directgrid.com
Environmental consultants
Ecology and Environment, Inc.
E & E offers the strategic, professional, and tech-
nical services solar energy developers need to
get on line fast. Operating from 30 domestic of-
fi ces, their multi-disciplinary team includes all of
the specialties required to get projects permitted.
E & E provides environmental consulting services,
conduct environmental assessments, prepare
environmental documentation and permit applica-
tions, and perform due diligence assessments for
all types of solar projects.
www.ene.com/service/energy/solar.aspx
Robotics
EPSON Robots
EPSON Robots offers PC controlled precision factory
automation with an installed base of over 18,000 ro-
bots and a product line of hundreds of models of easy
to use SCARA, Cartesian, and 6 axis robots based on
a common PC based controls platform. Building on a
25 year heritage, EPSON Robots delivers robots for
precision assembly and material handling applica-
tions in the solar, aerospace, appliance, automotive,
biotechnology, consumer product, electronics, food
processing, medical device, pharmaceutical, plastics,
semiconductor, and telecommunication industries.
www.robots.epson.com
Analytical lab
Evans Analytical Group
Evans Analytical Group serves the PV industry by
helping manufacturers understand their materials
and processes. They provide an array of analytical
measurements, using an extensive set of in-house in-
strumentation to provide information about crystallin-
ity, purity, contaminant levels, fi lm thickness, compo-
sition, roughness, dopant levels, and microstructure.
This information helps solar cell manufacturers to
qualify materials and suppliers, speed up their R&D,
optimize their manufacturing processes, and relate
materials properties to cell performance. Characteri-
zation methods available from EAG include SIMS,
GDMS, TEM, SEM, FIB, XRD, XPS, XRF, ICP-MS, ICP-
OES, TOF-SIMS, FTIR, Raman, and TGA, as well as
many others. These methods are applicable to almost
all stages of the manufacturing process and to all
types of PV materials including crystalline silicon,
amorphous Si, CdTe, CIGS, and III-V based cells.
www.eaglabs.com
Solar simulation equipment manufacturer
EYE Lighting / Iwasaki Electric
EYE Lighting / Iwasaki Electric designs and manu-
factures the lighting source (lamps) and propri-
etary fi lters, in addition to solar simulation equip-
ment. This integrated approach is unique in the
marketplace. Any solar simulation system is only
as good as the lighting source. EYE systems are
designed from inception around the proper light-
ing source for the particular application, from PV
cell development to production test equipment.
EYE Lighting / Iwasaki develops and produces a
complete range of lighting technology including
metal halide, xenon, halogen, UV light sources,
and optics equipment designed specifi cally for
solar simulation applications.
www.eyelighting.com
Components or electrical protection
Ferraz Shawmut
Ferraz Shawmut manufactures a dedicated range of
electrical protection components specially designed
for solar power generation and distribution including
600VDC and 1000VDC fuse solutions, UltraSafe “fi n-
ger-safe” fuse holders, as well as open style fuse
holders, PV rated disconnect switches, fi nger-safe
power distribution blocks (FSPDB), Surge-Trap surge
protective devices, and a host of other electrical
protection solutions for the combiner box, inverter,
main electrical panel, and utility. Download a com-
plimentary solar power circuit protection brochure at
http://us.ferrazshawmut.com/solarbrochure.
http://us.ferrazshawmut.com
Marketing & public relations
Front Page Public Relations
Front Page Public Relations is a full service market-
ing communications fi rm that handles public rela-
tions, media relations, event marketing, Internet
search engine optimization (SEO), Internet market-
Deep Cycle Power for Renewable Energy Systems
Solar, PV and Wind.
Sun Xtender® Providing Safe, Reliable Power Solutions Worldwide Since 1987.
Storing today’s energy for tomorrow’s use.
Sun Xtender® batteries are the original “AGM” (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery adopted by the U.S. Military.
CONCORDE BATTERY CORPORATIONCONCORDECONCORDECONCORDECONCORDEONC BABABABABAATTERYTTERYTTERYTTERYAAAAA CORPORACORPORACORPORACORPORACORPORATIONTIONTIONTIONTAAAAA
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2010 solar buyers guide
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55North American Clean Energy
ONE�MEAN�BATTERY
CAUTION
Superior Cycling | Dual-Container Construction | Widest Range of Specs
Largest Liquid Reserves | Easiest to Install | Longest Life Span | Premium Warranties
T. 1.800.681.9914 E. [email protected] www.rollsbattery.com
Available in 20 countries on 6 continents worldwide,Rolls offers the broadest product line of deep cycle, low maintenance and maintenance
free batteries for the Renewable Energy market. From large-scale storage to small
village electrification, our flooded or AGM storage batteries deliver the power you
need every time. Each is backed by our industry leading warranty, solid reputation
and 97% recyclable at end of life. Green just got a whole lot meaner.
ing, website design, website content development,
advertising, and marketing programs to increase
sales for solar products and services in the US, as
well as the global marketplace. Front Page PR has
in-depth knowledge of the following solar and relat-
ed products and services: alternative energy (solar,
wind turbines, micro-hydro, fuel cells, etc.); energy
effi ciency mortgages/HERS rating audits; green jobs
and career placement agencies; solar attic fans,
radiant barriers, and improving building envelopes;
solar PV power systems; solar thermal hot water
heaters; and, solar training programs.
www.frontpagepr.com
Governmental & economic development services
Idaho Department of Commerce
Idaho is serious about renewable energy. The
state is a perfect testing ground for renewable
energy technologies, and alternative energy
manufacturing companies are moving to tap into
Idaho’s outstanding business climate. Idaho has a
variety of elements that make it a viable labora-
tory and manufacturing center for the next step
in power generation. Some of these elements
include: the Idaho National Laboratory being
in the forefront of renewable energy research
and Idaho’s ranking of second in the nation for
patents per capita and manufacturing investment.
Additionally, they have the third lowest energy
costs in the 50 states, and are ranked fi fth best in
the nation for long-term employment growth. It is
no wonder that Idaho’s alternative energy manu-
facturing base is on the rise.
www.renewable.idaho.gov
Testing & certifi cation
Intertek
Intertek has announced that its Lake Forest, CA
facility has expanded its IECEE CB Scheme Test-
ing Laboratory (CBTL) to include certifi cation of
photovoltaic modules to IEC Standards. This ac-
creditation provides manufacturers faster access
to global markets and reduces certifi cation costs.
This accreditation allows Intertek to conduct one
set of tests that will provide manufacturers with
market access to more than 40 countries that
participate in the IECEE’s CB Scheme. Intertek
now delivers the broadest scope of testing and
certifi cation services to the PV industry. The
laboratory is also accredited by the State of
California, Energy Commission (CEC) for the Solar
Home Program, CEC certifi cations, and has mu-
tual agreements with Florida State Energy Centre
for data acceptance.
www.intertek.com/renewable
Inverter stations
Lectrus Corporation
Lectrus Corporation has announced a new service to
provide turnkey site installation services for its line of
electrical equipment centers. Partnering with Dubak
Electrical Group, the new service will provide custom-
ers with a streamlined and cost-effective installation
option compared with conventional installation servic-
es offered by general or electrical contractors. Lectrus’
expert installation group will provide a high-quality in-
stallation and will avoid the many challenges that fi rst
time contractors may encounter. Additionally, electrical
OEM’s will benefi t from the value of the single-source
turnkey installation to their customers. Lectrus will
offer site installation services to electrical equipment
center customers in all market segments they serve.
www.lectrus.com
Contract metal manufacturing
Melitron Corporation
Melitron is a contract manufacturer of precision
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56 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
Act now to participate in SOLAR 2010, the premier technical
conference for solar energy and energy efficiency professionals in the U.S.
Early registration and program online at www.SOLAR2010.org
CONNECT in the Desert.May 17 — 22, 2010
Phoenix, Arizona
Presented by American Solar Energy Society
www.ases.org
metal components, enclosures, and integrated assemblies providing cus-
tomers with a single source manufacturing solution from design through
to metal fabrication, powder coating, and assembly. Melitron has the
manufacturing services essential for solar applications such as inverter
cabinets, racks, mounting components, battery enclosures, and distribu-
tion panels. Melitron’s advanced manufacturing technologies offer cus-
tomers superior manufacturing advantages in the large-scale expansion of
PV and solar thermal energy systems.
www.melitron.com
Screen manufacturer for printing on solar cells
MicroScreen
MicroScreen manufactures screens for printing on solar cells. The company has
a new high-tension mesh that allows them to stretch screens tighter, and to a
higher tension. MicroScreen is the only screen manufacturer that applies emul-
sion with a PLC automatic coating machine, which contributes to an increase in
cell effi ciency.
www.microscreen.org
Solar fasteners
Mudge Fasteners, Inc.
Mudge Fasteners, Inc. is the expert in fasteners for renewable energy industries.
Stainless steel bolts, nuts, and screws are just the beginning of the highly spe-
cialized selection of products geared to the manufacturing, installation, and main-
tenance of PV, CSP, CST, and Wind Energy Systems. Look to Mudge for security
fasteners, T-heard bolts, studs, and anchoring systems. Also, fi nd Stainless steel
cable ties and wire clips, roof penetration sealant, and a complete line of fall
protection gear. Manufacturers and installers count on Mudge Fasteners to get it
right...right on time.
www.mudgefasteners.com | www.mudgesolar.com
Energy project fi nancePNC Equipment Finance - Energy Capital
PNC Equipment Finance - Energy Capital provides tax equity and debt fi nancings
in the solar energy and renewables industry. They offer sale-leasebacks, partner-
ship fl ips, and tax leases with a deep and leading understanding of the myriad of
tax credits, rebates, depreciation, accounting, and documentation issues involved.
www.pnc.com/ef
2010 solar buyers guide
Insurance
RSA
There has been a fl urry of activity in the Cana-
dian solar power sector due to advancements in
technology and increased government support.
As projects become larger and more complex,
it’s key to ensure seamless insurance coverage is
in place every step of the way. RSA’s engineers
and underwriters have a depth of knowledge and
expertise that allows them to tailor a solution
for each individual risk. RSA insures a full range
of technologies including: solar thermal, photo-
voltaic, and concentrator. As risk experts in the
evolution of solar technology, they also protect
clients in the event of mechanical breakdown of
key components, hail, geological hazards, and
theft. Their insurance products protect customers
every step of the way—from transportation to
construction and operation.
www.rsagroup.ca
Economic development
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership
Sarnia-Lambton is becoming known world-wide
as a powerhouse community. A growing number
of power producers are tapping into the industry
friendly infrastructure in this south western On-
tario region. Excellent manufacturing locations
(suitable for the manufacture of solar panel com-
ponents) are available adjacent to the Michigan
border and central to the Great Lakes region, with
easy access to international markets. It is also
home to the fi rst Solar/Enbridge solar farm. Also,
companies like Greenfi eld Energy, Invenergy,
TransAlta, Sky Generation, and Methes Energy
are taking advantage of cluster power in power
generation, industrial chemicals, and manufactur-
ing. And, Lambton College provides three-year
Alternative Energy Engineering Technology gradu-
ates and research assistance is available at The
Research Park in Sarnia-Lambton.
www.sarnialambton.on.ca
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geothermal energy
Well, maybe not the guns. But meaning-ful development of the major undevel-oped reserves of geothermal power in the United States should not require a whole lot more than judiciously ap-plied money and a focused, enlightened regulatory policy (hence, with apologies, the need for lawyers). But fi rst, the sta-tistics…
Potential developmentAccording to the Geothermal Energy Association (GEA), as of August 2009, there were slightly less than 3200 MW of geothermal power in operation in the US, of which 2600 MW is in California, followed by Nevada, with 450 MW—no other state has material amounts of geothermal power in operation. As for projects under development, GEA in-dentifi es some 132 “confi rmed” projects totaling up to 6,443 MW, but closer examination reveals that fewer than 140 MW of those projects are in Phase IV development (“production drilling underway; facility under construction”), with the remainder in various stages of site exploration, permitting, or contract negotiation.
These fairly paltry numbers contrast starkly with what various studies claim to be the potential for geothermal de-velopment. For example, a 2006 MIT study set out a road map for how the US could commercialize 100,000 MW of geothermal resources by 2050 utilizing the new Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) technology, and the US Geo-logical Survey has put that potential at 500,000 MW.
It is not surprising, therefore, that over time the oft-repeated statements as to the potential for geothermal develop-ment have increasingly come to sound less like optimistic predictions, and more like an indictment of regulatory policy. Despite the material incentives for renewable power set forth in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, only six new geothermal plants totaling 176 MW came on line in 2009 (see “US Gets 6 New Geothermal Plants in 2009,” Electric Power Daily).
Why the vast gap between potential and realization? Among other reasons: 1. The initial stages of geothermal
development are in many respects analogous to oil wildcatting, with long lead times and high, usually in-determinate exploration costs;
2. Despite the rosy forecast and its ex-cellent track record and very clean
environmental profi le, geothermal power still is looked upon as a step-child of the big three mainstays of
renewable power (wind, solar, and biomass); and
3. Though many state renewable port-
folio standards (RPS) and requests for proposals (RFPs) have implemented “set-asides” for wind and/or solar re-
24/7 - 365 days a yearGeothermal Energy Doesn’t Stop
707.523.2960 www.thermasource.com
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Drill Rig Operations • Drilling Engineering • Geothermal Economics • Field SupervisionProject Management • Resource Assessment • Well Testing
Cementing • Drilling Fluids • EGS Exploration • Well Logging
Geothermal From the Ground UpRealizing the potential of geothermal powerBy Larry Eisenstat & Richard Lehfeldt
“Send lawyers, guns and money.” ~Warren Zevon
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sources, geothermal power usually has not been accorded similar treatment, even though its life-cycle costs compare favorably to those resources.
So, what can policymakers do to facilitate the nation’s development of this huge and clean resource? Here are seven ideas: 1. Long-Term PPAs: For a century, the central problem that has faced the
electric power industry—the most capital-intensive industry in the world—is whether and how to fi nance investments that range from tens of millions to tens of billions of dollars. Most renewable power plants today are built by non-utility developers (although somewhat less so than in the past) and, with fewer and fewer exceptions, these projects—unlike rate-based investments—require long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with one or more customers to be developed. In a few areas of the country and, perhaps increasingly so, 20-year PPAs are becoming the norm. But make no mistake: because capital providers, especially under current economic conditions, will demand a long-term and legally enforceable revenue stream before making any commitments, neither equity nor debt will be mobilized to develop such facilities in the absence of long-term PPAs.
2. Feed-In Tariffs (FITs): FITs are a beguilingly simple method of quickly and dramatically increasing geothermal development. A state need only establish an appropriate tariff to pay for the given renewable resource. If the tariff is set high enough, capital will fl ow to the development of the resource. If the tariff is set too low, it will not. The experience of Spain and Germany shows that FITs can achieve their purpose. Both countries established solar FITs that resulted in bids of many more megawatts of new solar resources than had been developed over the entire prior decade, although far more than those nations needed. Their mistake was not in seeking to jumpstart renewable development via a FIT, however, but in not setting up the procurement as a reverse auction where bidders would drop out as the price to supply a stated need came down in successive rounds.
3. Geothermal-Only RFPs: As noted above, an all source “renewable power” RFP is unlikely to elicit material amounts of geothermal power given its large up-front development costs. Accordingly, states with proven geothermal power potential should consider geothermal-only RFPs, or renewable power RFPs with a geothermal power set-aside to encourage the development of this resource—much like RFPs for conventional power historically have called for a mix of baseload, intermittent, and peaking generation, and/or a mix of fuels.
4. Making Federal Land Available for Geothermal Development: The US Department of the Interior, through the Bureau of Land Management, is responsible for geothermal siting approval on federal lands but, although Interior has said it is committed to utilizing federal land to enhance renewable development, it has to date made available for geothermal development only 700,000 acres of the roughly 700 million acres it manages. This process can and should be expedited. One way to do so might be for the government expeditiously to enter into short-term leases, with an option by the lessee to extend the term to 20-plus years should it actually discover and decide to develop the associated geothermal resources.
5. A Federal RPS: Currently, 32 states and the District of Columbia have RPS requirements, but they vary dramatically and lack the necessary coordination and scope that a federal template would provide. A federal RPS passed the US House of Representatives three times in the past few years, but failed in the Senate. Passage of a federal RPS, whether as part of a comprehensive climate change bill or as free-standing legislation, would likely result in a more uniform set of rules. And, rather than a balkanized, state-by-state RPS regime, it would allow for the full-fl edged development of uniquely regional renewable resources. [see “An Energy Plan we Can Start Now,” Washington Post (August 25, 2009)]. It would also more easily allow resources such as geothermal, which are concentrated in the western part of the US to be developed to meet the national requirements and, by virtue of its more broadly benefi ting ratepayers, should also make it much more likely that the backbone transmission necessary to satisfy that RPS will actually be built.
6. Climate Change Law: Despite periodic fl urries of activity, both at the beginning of the 111th Congress and by virtue of the recent climate change negotiations in Copenhagen, the prognosis for national climate change legislation remains highly uncertain. However, even the diminishing chorus of naysayers about the need for such legislation should agree that transparent environmental rules would help to resolve the extraordinary uncertainties surrounding the price of carbon, a resolution that would benefi t both fossil-fueled generation and renewable resources like geothermal power (which have no combustion-based emissions). Indeed, the Environmental Protection Agency’s low-end estimate of allowance prices under the House passed climate change legislation (HR 2454) is $13 per metric ton of CO2 in 2015. [see “EPA Analysis of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009” (June 23, 2009)]. Even this conservative assessment would translate into an emissions cost to be added to carbon-based power sources of $13 per MWh (on the assumption that such generation produces one ton of carbon per MWh of generation), thereby benefi tting geothermal resources by comparison.
7. Solving Intermittency: Wind and solar power are “intermittent resources” (they are available only when the wind blows or the sun shines). No doubt, in some parts of the US they are available quite a bit. But geothermal and biomass, by contrast, are true baseload resources entitled to receive full value for their capacity. Their widespread availability would also permit regulators to consider “merged resource bids;” whereby, a proposed intermittent renewable resource could be coupled with a baseload renewable resource that could back up the intermittent resource when unavailable.
ConclusionThere is no great mystery to geothermal development. For more than half a century, it has proven to be a reliable, environmentally friendly source of moderately priced electricity. But tapping that resource’s largely unmet potential requires a more focused understanding of geothermal’s special attributes, and a more certain expectation by developers of reasonably predictable mechanisms to allow for capital formation. Once in place, such mechanisms will allow us to develop signifi cant new domestic power supplies and to contribute to meaningful greenhouse gas reductions.
Dickstein Shapiro LLP | www.dicksteinshapiro.com
geothermal energy
Larry Eisenstat (left) is a partner at Dickstein Shapiro LLP and head of its Energy Practice. Richard Lehfeldt (right) is also a partner in Dickstein Shapiro LLP’s Energy Practice.
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Risk:
1. The possibility of suffering harm or loss; danger;
2. A factor, thing, element, or course involving uncertain danger; a hazard
Financial Risk:
The quantifi able likelihood of loss or less-than-expected returns
Risk. The word immediately brings up the feeling associated with walking across a rope bridge over a deep canyon—for some there is only dread, but for others, sheer exhilaration. Many feel dread because the bridge could fail, but others see it as an opportunity to cross the canyon. The key to understanding risk is to not just see the danger or loss, but also the uncertainty and possibility.
In the geothermal energy industry, there is a problem with risk. This problem is not necessarily tied up in the danger or loss side of the equation—both developers and project investors are keenly aware that some projects may never produce a sin-gle electron worth of electricity. The problem is in understanding and quantifying the uncertainty. How much of a chance is there that a project will fail? For any fi -nancial investment, and specifi cally for any energy project to get funded, investment professionals need to “run the numbers.” What is my risk and potential reward? And, one key question: “what is the possibility of a zero return on my investment,” or, in the above analogue, a bridge failure?
Say there was a million-dollar reward at the other side of the canyon and the bridge had a one-in-a-million chance of failing…would you cross? Likely, most people would “risk it” and cross the bridge. How about a $100 reward and a one-in-a-hundred chance of bridge failure? Now, people are starting to re-assess the risk-to-reward ratio; they are “managing their risk.” So, here’s where it gets tricky. What if there was no confi dence in the odds of a bridge failure? Meaning the bridge could fail at any time. How could someone assess the risk to reward?
As much as they might like you to believe otherwise, institutional investors do not risk their lives when they invest in projects, but there is signifi cant fi nancial risk when one considers the number of zeroes involved with any major energy project.
Here is where the predicament lies for geothermal energy development, as the reward for geothermal energy development is high. According to the US Depart-ment of Energy, geothermal energy has one of the lowest levelized costs (average cost of power production over the life of a power plant) of any power supply. Un-like wind or solar, geothermal energy does not rely on variable sources of energy; the earth’s heat provides baseload power without fuel costs. Geothermal energy development has one of the smallest environmental footprints for land use and CO2 production, and can be a source of both power and heat. When this cost-effective, clean, renewable energy is needed most, investors should be more than interested in “crossing the bridge.” So, why then is geothermal energy not the investor’s fi rst choice for energy investment dollars?
The answer comes back to quantifying risk to reward. Like any energy develop-ment, geothermal projects have an element of risk. Any honest energy developer will admit that not everything goes according to plan and not everything stays on budget. A big issue for geothermal energy is the vast majority of capital risk on the front-end, including: exploration risk, drilling risk, and power facility construction risk, just to name a few. It is not unreasonable to assume that a geothermal energy developer will spend almost 95% of its capital budget before putting electrons on the grid and beginning to recover the reward. Although this is a distinct disadvan-tage for geothermal energy development, comparably to fossil fuels and other re-newable energy sources for power generation, this is still not the key problem. Suc-
GeothermalEnergy
Investment A risky bridge to cross?
By Craig Dunn, P.Geol.
cessful investors do not avoid risk, they manage it. The real issue is correctly quan-tifying the risk by identifying all the potential pitfalls. If the investor understands the risk, they could put a number on it (the bridge fails one in 100 times), and then they could decide what a reasonable reward should be and “manage their risk.”
If a developer downplays the risk or overstates the reward, they create uncertainty and mistrust for the investment community. “You are saying the bridge only fails one-in-a-million times, but it failed last week. What are the odds of failure today?” If the developer cannot honestly answer the question, then the unknown or uncer-tain risk can make quantifying the risk-to-reward ratio next to impossible. However, with every “bridge failure,” developers learn how to build a better bridge and im-prove the odds of success.
This is where the geothermal industry can be proactive and think like the inves-tor. Developers need to provide sound numbers for things like exploration drilling success, resource recovery, and capital costs. “Yes, there is a one-in-100 chance the bridge will fail, but the reward is still a million.” If these numbers are well-re-searched and accurate, it allows investors to make informed decisions.
With no misconceptions, the benefi ts for developers are twofold:• The investor and the developer are well-informed of the actual risk they are
taking. • The investor is comfortable with their reward for taking that risk.
At the end of the day, the developers have already decided that it is worth cross-ing the bridge for geothermal energy development, and they have already invested or risked their own time and energies. Now is the time to help the investment community understand where the pitfalls are and why the reward is worth the risk. More than ever, the industry needs investors to cross the bridge with them for clean, renewable, geothermal power.
Craig Dunn is a geologist with Borealis GeoPower.
Borealis GeoPower | www.borealisgeopower.com
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Financing up to 100 MW of Geothermal Power Raser Technologies Inc. has reached an agreement with Evergreen Clean Energy LLC for the fi nancing of geothermal well fi eld development. The developments could be used for up to 100 MW of geothermal power projects. Under terms of the non-exclusive agreement, Evergreen is expected to provide approximately US $30 million in fi nancing for each power project funded, with fi nal amounts for each project based on the expected capacity of the project.
Evergreen’s funding commitment on a project by project basis is subject to ad-ditional project-specifi c due diligence, as well as Raser taking care of permitting requirements and exploration efforts. For the typical 20 MW project, Raser and Ev-ergreen expect the fi nancing commitment to be approximately $25 million to fund drilling and another $5 million paid to Raser in exchange for Evergreen’s participa-tion rights in the project.
In return for its investment, Evergreen will receive an equity interest of approximately 50% in each power project and will receive a 15% preferred return on the capital invested. The agreement also provides that Evergreen will receive warrants to purchase shares of Raser’s common stock in connection with the funding of each power plant project. The total amount of warrants to be issued will be dependent upon the amount of funding provided. Raser expects to initially seek funding under the agreement to develop the Lightning Dock, New Mexico and Thermo, Utah resources, which collectively have the potential to support up to approximately 250 MW of power generation.Raser Technologies Inc. | www.rasertech.com
geothermal energy
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Geothermal well drillingWhile the Mustang 4-F1 is new to the US market, it has been used extensively in Europe for 30 years and is ideally suited for geothermal drilling in urban/suburban environments. This has been a major factor in Atlas Copco’s decision to bring the Mustang to the States. Several features set the Mustang 4-F1 apart from other drill rig models—particularly larger water well rigs—in geothermal drilling ap-plications. A smaller track-mounted rig that is only 8 feet wide, 21 feet long, 21 feet high when pow-ered up, and weighs less than 18,000 pounds, the Mustang can access tight spots, easily maneuver over curbs, and move across landscaped yards, leaving a much smaller footprint and reducing the chance of cracking and damage.
The Mustang 4-F1 has a Tier 3 100 hp Deutz diesel engine with a 21-gallon fuel tank that burns 2.5 gallons per hour. The compressor puts out 350 psi/700 cfm of air and runs quietly. The lubricating system allows adequate lubrication of the DTH hammer. The Mustang can also be equipped with a Bellin mud pump with an output of 160 gpm or 360-400 psi. The rig is effi cient to operate, ergonomi-cally designed, and easy to use by a single operator. With a single pull of a lever, the positioning device moves the feed accurately and safely into place. The position of the compact tiltable rod rack, winch and rod breaker facilitate quick and easy rod changes and guarantee high productivity. Atlas Copco | www.atlascopco.us
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61North American Clean Energy
Atlas Copco Gas and Process Solutions
Unlock the Vast Potential of Renewable Energy
For several decades, Atlas Copco Gas and Process has helped customers around the world to unlock the vast potential of renewable energy sources. Our technical experts have contributed to groundbreaking projects in the geothermal industry and have invaluable experience in all types of energy recovery processes.
Find out more at www.atlascopco-gap.com/geothermal.Visit us at booth #122 at the Geothermal Energy Expo in Reno, Nevada.
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Renewable Energy WorldConference & Expo North AmericaFebruary 23rd to 25th, 2010 • Austin Convention Center • Austin, Texaswww.renewableenergyworld-events.comRenewable Energy World Conference & Expo will feature more than 30 educational conference sessions in eight highly technical conference tracks covering: biomass, policy market & fi nance, solar, utility integration, as well as wind, geothermal, and hydro power.
Show in PrintFeatures just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this year’s show.
Wind & solar power electrical construction Rosendin Electric is ranked second in the United States for all electrical con-struction and fi rst in the production of wind farms, totaling over 7 GW of gen-erated wind power. Their accomplish-ments include more than 7,000,000 cir-cuit feet of collection systems installed, over (30,000) 35 kV termination and splices, and 28 completed substations. Rosendin Electric has since taken this expertise with collection systems, sub-stations, and transmission work to the solar industry. They have quickly estab-lished themselves as a preferred design build installer for business, government, and utility end users. Currently, Rosen-din Electric’s Solar Division has over 35 MW of PV experience completed or under contract. Rosendin Electric’s core mission continues to be providing unparalleled service, safety, and value, which is the reason over 90% of their work, is with repeat customers. Rosendin Electricwww.rosendin.com
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62 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
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Utility scale distributed energy storage Ice Energy delivers distributed energy storage and smart grid solutions for opti-mizing energy system effi ciency. The company’s smart grid platform integrates revolutionary, effectively lossless distributed energy storage technology with an advanced software infrastructure and intelligent two-way control to provide utilities with a powerful, cost-effective solution that fundamentally changes peak load management, and improves the reliable integration of intermittent, renew-able resources onto the grid.
By leveraging the higher effi ciencies associated with generating and transmit-ting power off-peak, storing it at thousands of distributed locations, and dis-patching it during times of peak demand, Ice Energy delivers a sustainable new energy solution equivalent to hundreds of megawatts of clean peaking power for utilities. This transformational solution has been recognized as a renewable port-folio resource in multiple states and geographies, further helping utilities meet current and future renewable regulatory requirements.Ice Energy | www.ice-energy.com
Protection for wind generation Independent power producers need cost-effective, reliable solutions that connect wind turbines to the power grid. The SEL-547 Distributed Gen-erator Interconnection Relay, an IEEE 1547-compliant solution, provides es-sential protection for the electric utility grid and distributed generation. Since its introduction in 2002, hundreds of North American wind energy producers have equipped their power systems with the compact, economical SEL-547. Schweitzer Engineering & Laboratories, Inc.www.selinc.com/547
Prospecting interface for renewable energy3TIER’s award-winning FirstLook web-site made accessing renewable resource data quick and easy with a simple point and click map. Now in addition to First-Look’s annual mean values, 3TIER pro-vides monthly variability for wind speed and solar irradiance, along with an annual wind rose through the launch of a new prospecting interface for wind and solar data. This groundbreaking interface al-lows users to make informed early stage siting and design decisions without hav-ing to visit sites or collect observational data. Delivered through 3TIER’s custom-izable Dashboard interface, the product enables developers, manufacturers, and installers to compare key prospecting information for multiple locations at a time. Founded on 3TIER’s seamless global datasets, the latest science, and a consistent methodology, the prospecting interface facilitates reliable comparisons with resource data that drives decisions.3TIER Inc. | www.3tier.com
show in print
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63North American Clean Energy
Mandate for diesel & jet fuel from renewable feedstocks The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) at the University of North Dakota has entered into a strategic partnership with Accelergy Corporation, which is globally involved in the pro-duction of high-value domestically sourced liquid fuels. Under the terms of the agreement, Accelergy will license a proprietary EERC technology to accelerate the development of specialty liquid jet fuels used by the military from cleaner and non-petroleum sources. This comes on the heels of a recent $4.7 million contract between EERC and US Department of Defense’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) that funded
the development of the fi rst completely renewable JP-8 jet fuel.Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) | www.undeerc.org
Battery powered nodes & software integrationThe NI wireless sensor network (WSN) platform delivers battery powered nodes that offer industrial certifi cations, reliable networking protocols, and optional outdoor enclosures for long-term, stand-alone de-ployments. Take advantage of NI LabVIEW software integration with NI WSNs to select between Windows and LabVIEW Real-Time
Oss, and simplify the extraction of high-quality measurement data. A WSN system is ideal for environmental monitoring in which the requirements man-date a long-term deployed solution to acquire water, soil, or climate measure-ments. For utilities such as the electricity grid, streetlights, and water munici-pals, wireless sensors offer a lower-cost method for collecting system health data to reduce energy usage and better manage resources. In structural health monitoring, wireless sensors can monitor highways, bridges, and tunnels, and deploy these systems to monitor offi ce buildings, power plants, airports, etc. Blake SunshineNational Instrumentswww.ni.com
Electrical control & power distribution systems Point Eight Power designs and manufactures electrical control and distribution systems that meet unique requirements. Their custom solutions save time and money. They provide utility synchronization and grounding equipment for all distributed power generation and CHP sources, as well as support distributed generation and CHP globally with balance of plant and generator switchgear for natural gas turbine and reciprocating engine
installations. Point Eight Power’s dedicated team of passionate employees builds breakthrough thinking into all of their products. Power Eight Power | www.pointeightpower.com
DC-to-medium voltage platform forMW-scale projectsPV Powered, Inc. announces Pow-erVault, a turnkey and fully customiz-able DC-to-medium voltage platform that provides signifi cant cost savings in multi-megawatt solar installations. PowerVault is a fully engineered and factory assembled inverter power plant
with DC inputs on one side and medium voltage outputs on the other. The invert-ers, switchboard, and monitoring system are housed in an enclosure that is listed to UL QRNZ for walk-in electrical equipment. The medium voltage transformer with a cost-saving integrated loop feed switch is mounted on the outdoor portion of the skid. The conduit-ready pier-mount confi guration saves installation time and eliminates tens-of-thousands of dollars in engineering design, site preparation, and installation costs for commercial and utility customers.
The PowerVault platform offers a variety of confi gurations designed around the 97% effi cient PVP260kW inverter. With the benefi t of a 20-year operating life and the highest inverter reliability in the industry, this MW-scale power plant offers the reliability and redundancy needed to ensure uptime in large solar power systems. PV Powered, Inc. | www.pvpowered.com
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hydro and marine energy
A huge, new machine is hitting the water. Its name: “Oyster.” Designed to harness the power of ocean
waves and turn it into green electricity, Oyster has been installed on the seabed off the Atlantic shores of the Orkney Isles north of Scotland. It is busy undergoing demonstration trials to prove whether its innovative technology could lead to a commercial source of renewable energy for use in seashores around the world.
In contrast to many other wave power devices, Oyster uses hydraulic technology to transfer wave power to shore, where it is converted into electricity.
“A key design feature is an 18-metre-wide oscillator based on fundamental research at Queen’s University Belfast, led by Professor Trevor Whittaker, using their wave tanks,” said Dr Ronan Doherty, chief technical offi cer of Aquamarine Power, the Edinburgh-based company that developed Oyster. The design won the company the Innovator Award at this year's British Renewable Energy Awards. The oscillator is fi t-ted with pistons and, when activated by wave action, pumps high-pressure water through a subsea pipeline to the shore. Onshore, conventional hydroelectric generators convert this high-pressure water into electrical energy.
“The whole fi eld of generating electricity from wave power is ground breaking,” added Dr Doherty. “But, Oyster’s tech-nology is highly innovative because it relies on simplicity. Its offshore component—a highly reliable fl ap with minimal sub-merged moving parts—is the key to its success when operat-ing in seas vulnerable to bad weather where maintenance can be very diffi cult.
“There is no underwater generator, power electronics, or gearbox underwater to go wrong. All the complex power gen-eration equipment remains easily accessible onshore.”
Oyster is designed to be deployed at near-shore water depths of 12 to 16 meters, benefi ting from the more consistent seas and narrower directional spread of the waves in this location. The reduced wave height and load enhance survivability and allow a high percentage of annual average power and consistent power delivery. Any excess energy is spilled over the top of the fl ap, its rotational capacity allowing it to dip under the waves.
The environmental risks associated with the device are mini-mized by using only water as its hydraulic fl uid, rather than oil—and there are no toxic substances involved. It is also silent in operation. Based on fi gures from the Carbon Trust, each Oyster’s annual carbon saving could be as much as 500 tons. Al-though at an early stage of development, the concept could have signifi cant potential for use in many places across the world.
Dr Doherty added: “Our computer modeling of coastlines suitable for this technology shows that Spain, Portugal, Ire-land, and the UK are ideal candidates in Europe. But, globally, there is huge scope in areas like the north-west coast of the USA and coastlines off South Africa, Australia, and Chile. We estimate that the potential size of the market could be in ex-cess of 50 billion pounds.”
The marine renewable research capacity at the Environ-mental Engineering Research Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, is said to be among the best in the world and, in col-laboration with Aquamarine, Oyster will be the centre’s sixth wave-power sea trial. Research at Queen’s, which contributed to the Oyster technology, was supported by the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council.
Article courtesy of London Press Services.
Aquamarine Power | www.aquamarinepower.com
The study: Best Siting Practices for Marine and Hydrokinetic Technologies with Respect to Environmental and Naviga-tional Impacts. The goal: to establish baseline technology based scenarios to identify potential navigational and envi-ronmental concerns in the siting of marine and hydrokinetic energy devices and to provide data to industry and regulators.
The work is being funded through an award of up to $500,000 from the US Department of Energy. This award was announced in September 2008 under DOE’s research and development solicitation for Advanced Water Power Projects. Re Vision market acceleration study nears completion, and was planned to be completed by the end of 2009. In perform-ing the study, Re Vision focused on tidal and wave energy conversion, says Mirko Previsic, president of Re Vision. The company chose three scales of technology development: pilot, early commercial, and commercial.
For the wave analysis, the company chose two sites, one in Humboldt County, California, and the other off the northeast shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Re Vision then chose four wave technologies: Wave Dragon, PowerBuoy from Ocean Power Technologies, Oyster from Aquamarine Power Ltd., and Pelamis from Ocean Prospect. For the tidal analysis, the company chose one site, Tacoma Narrows in Washington. Re Vision then chose three technologies: SeaGen from Marine Current Turbines, RTT2000 from Lunar Energy Ltd., and TidEL from SMD Hydrovision.
These scales, sites, and technologies will allow the company to put together 24 wave and nine tidal scenarios.
US Department of Energy | http://apps1.eere.energy.gov
HydroWorld | www.hydroworld.com
Cutting offshore cabling costs An 18-month project that could con-siderably reduce the cost of cabling from offshore wave and tidal farms to the shore has been announced by the UK’s Energy Technologies Institute (ETI). Costing £1.1 million (US$1.7 million), and led by MacArtney, the project aims to develop an 11 kV wet-mate connector enabling two power cables to be linked together. Currently, marine device develop-ers either use dry-mate connectors, which have to be lifted out of the water and connected on a barge, or a 6.6 kV wet-mate connector, which is not a high enough voltage rating for effi cient transmission of maximum outputs from devices back to shore.
The use of these higher voltage wet-mate connectors in future arrays is expected to lead to considerably lower installation, operating and maintenance costs, and more rapid deployment of marine energy arrays. They will enable the use of remotely operated vehicles to perform elec-trical connections on the sea-bed instead of having to deploy barges to perform these connections above the surface. Furthermore, the increase in voltage rating to 11 kV could signifi -cantly reduce the capital costs associ-ated with offshore energy installa-tions, since higher voltage connectors allow more power to be transmitted per cable.
ETI chief executive Dr David Clarke said: “Developing wet-mate connectors with a signifi cantly higher kV rating will considerably reduce the cost of tidal and energy arrays by cutting the cable costs to shore and simplifying device installation. Although it’s estimated that marine energy could supply up to 2 GW of UK electricity demand by 2020 and signifi cantly more than this by 2050, the electricity costs need to be more competitive with established renew-able and conventional generation. Projects of this nature will benefi t any marine device developer and it has the potential to benefi t other off-shore energy installations.”
Amaan Lafayette, marine develop-ment manager at ETI member E.ON commented, “This project is a good enabling move for the sector and the intended outputs, when achieved, will be of signifi cant benefi t.”MacArtney | www.macartney.com
Generating Green Power from the Sea
Siting Practices for Marine and Hydrokinetic Technologies
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65North American Clean Energy
US hydropower consumption increases 4%Hydropower consumption in the United States increased 4% for the fi rst eight months of 2009 when compared with the same period in 2008, according to a report issued by the Energy Information Administration, the statis-tical arm of the US Department of Energy.
Americans consumed more than 188 million MWh of hydropower through August, up from about 181 million MWh last year, according to Electric Power Monthly.
In Washington and Oregon, the top hydropower-producing states, consumption decreased slightly. Wash-ington consumed 54.1 million MWh for the fi rst eight months of 2009, down from 57.3 million MWh in 2008. Oregon consumed 23.6 million MWh, down from 23.9 MWh last year. Alabama recorded the biggest in-crease—54.6%. Kentucky, with a 52.1% increase, recorded the second biggest jump in hydropower consumption. During the fi rst seven months of 2009, hydropower consumption in the United States was up 5.1% compared with last year. Energy Information Administration | www.eia.doe.gov
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World’s biggest tidal turbine Atlantis Resources Corp. has selected the waters off Scotland’s Orkney Islands as the proving ground for the world's biggest tidal turbine—this in prepara-tion for Scotland’s plan to use ocean en-ergy for half-a-million homes by 2020. The AK-1000 turbine, which has rotors that are 18 meters in diameter, has a ca-pacity of 1 MW. The turbine will be de-ployed at the European Marine Energy Center test site next year.
Tim Cornelius, chief executive offi cer at Atlantis, said the company is investing about $25 million to build and test the turbine. “We are fi nalizing the tender for manufacturers,” Cornelius said. “We are making this in the UK for the fi rst time.” Smaller versions previously have been made elsewhere.
Atlantis has invested more than $50 million over the last decade in the de-sign, development, and testing of tidal turbines. Much of that research went into designing the AK-1000, which is capable of performing in harsh environments.
“This one is built for the harsh ma-rine environment we will get as we go into the North Sea in Orkney,” Cor-nelius said. “This is one of the harshest environments in the world.”HydroWorld | www.hydroworld.com
Top 10 hydropower-consuming states from January to August (Thousand MWh):State 2009 2008 Percent Change
Washington 54, 104 57, 284 -5.6
Oregon 23, 579 23, 932 -1.5
California 20, 760 15, 182 36.7
New York 18, 808 18, 019 4.4
Idaho 7, 557 7, 320 3.2
Montana 6, 507 7, 085 -8.1
Alabama 6, 279 4, 062 54.6
Tennessee 5, 604 4, 051 38.3
Arizona 4, 587 5, 286 -13.2
NC 3, 011 2, 339 28.7
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biopower
It is no secret that worldwide dependency on oil has reached an all-time high. Since oil is a fi nite, non-renewable, and heavily relied upon resource, the race to discover
viable alternatives is hotter than ever. Still, the promise of an alternative and potential-ly clean energy source has been slow and steady. New biofuels emerge almost weekly and everything from wind and solar power to corn and soybean oil has been tapped as the next environmentally sound solution.
Each known source offers its own set of opportunities and challenges. Wind power is easy to harness, but effi ciently distributing it over long distances poses problems. Proponents of solar power fi nd capturing energy from sunlight to be somewhat diffi -cult—the result of capturing heat rather than light. Though new techniques can make solar energy more cost-effective and functional, so far cost reduction is not signifi cant enough for mass distribution. Although other resources like corn, soybean, and canola oils are readily available sources of energy that are renewable and provide a lower
carbon footprint, the extra demand for these products drives the cost of food up and threatens the supply. The increasing cost of biodiesel feedstock, drawing on and chan-neling these alterative energies poses obstacles for economic and mass production.
For activists of alternative energy and sustainability, algae is the latest in the green movement toward alternative energy and biomass. One of the only truly green sources of biofuel, algae starts out green and creates green byproducts. It has the potential to shift the United States from being the largest importer of oil to the leading exporter of clean energy. That’s because algae is not only sustainable, but it is also a renewable resource. It can be cultivated in mass and does not require the growing space required by cultivating competing biofuels—not to mention the drawbacks of deforestation and land use issues associated with biofuels feedstock farming.
As with all new technological and sustainable advances, algae is not without its chal-lenges, though it poses comparatively fewer at this stage. Not every strain of algae can be utilized to produce usable biodiesel and many do not produce signifi cant amounts of oil. Those that do often require very specifi c conditions, which are dependent upon the type of system utilized. Open-air systems often have contamination problems from organisms, making closed systems the most likely conduit for growing algae.
Algae oil is especially promising as a biodiesel feedstock; it can be used directly as a fuel. The drawback is that it requires modifi cations to a normal diesel engine before it can be used as a fuel, much like any other vegetable oil would. However, transesteri-fi ed biodiesel can run in an unmodifi ed modern diesel engine, provided the engine is designed to use ultra-low sulfur diesel, which as of 2006, was the new diesel fuel stand-ard in the US.
A remaining challenge is fi nding an inexpensive source of clean carbon dioxide, which is necessary to the algae growing process. A photosynthetic plant, algae natural-ly converts carbon dioxide (CO2) to oxygen (O2). Several studies show that the exhaust from a power plant smokestack works well for growing algae, but the carbon dioxide
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67North American Clean Energy
march 24–26vancouver convention centre, canada
Powering the FutureEnergy prices are volatile; accessibility and security of fossil fuel supplies questionable; and conservation and effi ciency are the new priorities. Change is inevitable, but what will the future hold? Join industry experts from around the world at GLOBE 2010 as they discuss how they are managing uncertainty and share their future visions.
Session Topics• CEO Dialogue: The Future of Energy
• Renewable Power: Key Drivers for Profi t
• Venture Funding: A Different Approach for Cleantech
• Bioenergy: Fueling the Development of a Low Carbon Economy
• The Next Spike: Building the Smart Grid
• Recharging Infrastructure: Case Studies for Municipalities
• Converting Gas Guzzlers to Fuel Sippers: Plug-in Aftermarket Conversions
• Now What? Implications for Business from COP15
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• The Future of Energy
• Financing the Low Carbon Economy
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• Auto FutureTech
SAVE $200Register by February 19, 2010
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11TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE & TRADE FAIR ON BUSINESS & THE ENVIRONMENT11,000 participants, 2,000 conference delegates, 450 exhibitors, 70 countries represented, 1 opportunity not to be missed
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needs to be scrubbed to remove contami-nants. As a result, economists and experts believe algae farming needs to be done next to power plants where it can help soak up pollution. By tapping into algae, it is possible to absorb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, pulling carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide gases from air polluting industries.
One energy company believes it has cracked the algae energy code—a feat that’s been projected to be fi ve to ten years away—with a large-scale Photo-Bi-oreactor System. This system is the fi rst commercially viable, fully automated, scalable, closed system microalgae pro-duction technology available today. The process grows algae under operator se-lected conditions, and uses existing tech-nology to harvest and extract algae oil from microalgae. To date, algae has been primarily cultivated for the neutraceutical market and, more recently, as a biofuel source. The large-scale Photo-Bioreactor System utilizes automated harvesting and conventional drying systems, along with a catalyzed biomass refi nery technology that will generate organic fertilizer and Algae Green fuel—which can be used to produce electricity, as well as power engines. It will also serve as a pollution control system, using algae to clean up industrial plant emissions. It captures ni-trogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2) generated by fl ue gas (compressed CO2 can also be used) from the power generation industry, or any CO2 emitting factories. The photo-bioreactor utilizes the captured gases as nutrients to feed the algae, converting greenhouse gases into growing cleaner, greener energy prod-ucts. The Photo-Bioreactor System can be connected to any boiler or gas turbine, reducing pollution while simultaneously producing biofuels. These biofuels can be used in plant vehicles, to co-fi re existing units, or produce additional power.
Arguably, algae is the most sustainable energy alternative with life-sustaining and viable applications that enhance a variety of aspects of our well-being. A tangible mass producer of algae oil stands at the gateway to a functional form of algae-based fuel and virtually endless uses of biomass.
Renewed World Energieswww.rwenergies.com
BioMass Furnaces & Boilers product lineTekSupply now offers BioMass Furnaces & Boilers to heat large spaces effi ciently and economi-cally. TekSupply’s BioMass Furnaces & Boilers burn a variety of fuels, which allows for greater cost control as fuel can be chosen based upon current market cost and availability. TekSupply’s BioMass line currently includes four forced-air units, two boiler units, and three forced-air mod-
els for home, shop, barn or greenhouse use.TekSupply also offers Pellet Mills, designed to pelletize waste material into easy to burn biomass fuel. These domesti-
cally made mills will pelletize waste wood, straw, corn stalks and cobs, switch grass, and much more, into easily handled pellets, perfect for use in their BioMass Furnaces & Boilers. Their Pellet Mills can produce up to 1,200 pounds of pellets per hour, and are available in electric-engine or PTO-driven models.TekSupply | www.teksupply.com
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Electric-powered horizontal grinderVermeer has introduced an electric-powered horizon-tal grinder for wood waste recycling. The HG6000E drum is powered by two electrical motors producing 600-horsepower (447.4 kW), while two separate electric
motors power the hydraulic circuits and cooling system. The unit is available in a skid-mount confi guration for placement in a permanent location, and the trailer-mount confi guration allows for periodic movement. Both confi gura-tions require a hardwire installation. To maximize productivity, the exclusive SmartGrind feature stops and reverses material from feeding into the patented duplex drum when motor amperage exceeds an effi cient operating range. The reversible hammers and cutter blocks on the Duplex Drum last nearly twice as long as single-sided designs. A multifunction, wireless remote control allows the operator to control most operating functions from a maximum operating distance of 300 feet (91.4 m).Vermeer | www.vermeer.com
Groundbreaking Cellulosic Biofuel Technology moves toward commercializationThe Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) Foundation and Whole Energy Fuels Corporation are poised to commercialize a novel and ground-breaking cellulosic biofuel technology developed at the EERC at the University of North Dakota. Whole Energy is receiving global, exclusive licensing rights to EERC Foundation’s technology, which converts biomass and other recycled ma-terial into liquid biofuels.
Utilizing cellulosic materials to produce biofuels has several advantages. Cel-lulosic materials such as wood, grasses, or the non-edible parts of crops—includ-ing wheat straw, soybean hulls, and corn cobs—are vast and diverse feedstocks compared to fi rst-generation feedstocks, like corn starch or sugarcane. In ad-dition, cellulosic fuels promise to become the lowest-cost biofuel while, at the same time, provide large reductions in greenhouse gas emissions compared to petroleum-derived fuels.
“This project presents an exciting opportunity for the EERC as it is one of the very fi rst involving production of advanced fuel additives from cellulosic feed-stocks,” said senior research advisor Ed Olson. “This technology will ultimately be used to improve engine performance using a renewable product, both in gasoline and diesel engines. In the case of diesel fuel, our additives will boost the cetane levels, improve fl ow properties and, most importantly, reduce particulate emissions.”
The current federal Renewable Fuel Standard requires that 36 million gallons of biofuels must be used in transportation fuel by 2022, including at least 21 bil-lion gallons of advanced biofuels such as cellulosic biofuels. This creates a gigan-tic market for cellulosic biofuels.
“The EERC Foundation's biorefi nery technology is superior to other tech-nologies because it does not depend on enzymes, fermentation, or extreme op-erating conditions,” said Karl Seck, president of Mercurius Biofuels. Based on experience in the petroleum refi ning industry, he continues, “This technology is more in line with the petroleum refi ning model and will benefi t from many of the same effi ciencies.”EERC | www.undeerc.org
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Conference: Exhibits: May 4-6, 2010
Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
biopower
Biofuels demo unitDexter Biodiesel Solutions, a distributor for the Schroeder Biofuels ColdClear, has announced that it will be able to exclusively offer customers a new BCC100 - 5GPM ColdClear Demo unit. The Cold-Clear unit is designed to lower biodiesel producers Cold Soak number, within and below passing ASTM stand-ards, in a simple and cost-effective method. The three-stage fi ltration housing combines traditional fi ltration with innovative cartridges that adsorb, and absorb polar and non-polar compounds that cause crystallization. ColdClear has also been found to lower the Cloud Point, Pour Point, and help with Oxidation Stability.
The BCC100 is a 5GPM unit. This unit will be able to process 15,000 or more gallons of biodiesel before
the elements need to be changed. The average cost per gallons is 2.5 to 3 cents per gallon. It is recommended that this unit be placed at the end of the biodiesel proc-ess in a “slip” stream for best results during the trial. The unit will be available to Dexter Biodiesel Solutions customers for a one week trial period. Dexter Biodiesel Solutions, LLC | www.dexterbiodiesel.com
Level measurement productsBrooks Instrument recently introduced four new level meas-urement products that compli-ment the robust and versatile Magnetic Level Gauge (MLG) series already on the market. A simple, continuous level meas-
urement transmitter, two point level measurement switches, and a fl ow switch. The MC1000 Continuous Level Transmitter is an economical, continuous level measurement device that can be used as a stand-alone product or as an option on 810 MLG series. With versatile construction (316SS, PVC, or PVDF), the MC1000 comes with either fl anged or threaded tank connections providing fl ex-ible mounting options.
The Vertical (Series ANV) or Horizontal (Series ANG) Level Switches are designed to detect level variations and activate alarms accordingly. They can be used for normal, corrosive, or hazardous liquids and are certifi ed explosion-proof or intrinsically safe. The MR783 Multi-Point Level Switch features a compact size, making it easy to mount in multiple locations on a tank. With versatile con-struction (316SS, PVC, or PVDF), the MR783 is also certifi ed explosion-proof or intrinsically safe, and is capable of indicating more than one level per tank and triggers alarms accordingly. Lastly, the CCB311 Flow Switch is designed to detect low fl ows in horizontal or vertical pipes with an upward fl ow direction. Suitable for liquids for gases, the CCB311 fl ow switch is robust with high repeat-ability and a very basic design. Brooks Instrument | www.brooksinstrument.com
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69North American Clean Energy
intersolarNorth America
North America’s Premier Exhibition & Conference for Photovoltaics and Solar Thermal Technology
San Francisco | Moscone CenterJuly 13–15, 2010
Co-located with
1,600 Conference Attendees 20,000 Visitors700 Exhibitors
www.intersolar.us CONNECTING SOLAR BUSINESS
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ELECTRIC POWERRESEARCH INSTITUTE
The 3rd Annual Global Marine Renewable Energy Conference will convene in Seattle, Washington this year at the Bell Harbor International Convention Center. At the conference, you will learn the latest on this exciting renewableenergy field directly from the experts, leaders, and innovators. We look forward to your participation!
Don't miss cutting-edge dialogue on:
Evolution of permitting (consent processes) and siting in various countriesThe most effective financing instruments and public subsidiesUnderstanding and mitigating potential environmental risks
Why you should attend:
Explore and exchange knowledge on best management practicesDiscuss financing instruments and regulatory driversLearn about U.S. and international policies supporting the growth of marine renewable energy
Who should attend?
Engineers and researchersEnvironmental analysts, scientists, and biologistsAttorneys and regulatory specialistsInnovators and developersInvestors and venture capitalistsFederal, state, and local government policy makers and regulatorsNon-governmental organizations
Visit our website at www.globalmarinerenewable.com for updates!
GLOBE 2010 March 24th to 26th • Vancouver Convention Centre • Vancouver, BCwww.globe2010.comGLOBE 2010 is one of the world’s largest and longest-running events dedicated to the business of the environment. Every two years, over 10,000 professionals from 70+ countries come together at GLOBE for three days of thought-leading sessions presented by world-renowned sustainability experts—to survey leading-edge environmental innovations, and to participate in unparalleled global networking opportunities.
Show in PrintFeatures just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this year’s show.
Bringing natural gas to heavy duty trucks & busesWestport Innovations Inc. is a global supplier of proprietary solutions that allow engines to operate on clean-burning fuels such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefi ed natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, and biofuels—such as landfi ll gas. Their unique Westport HD technologies for heavy-duty trucks reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) while preserving the power, torque, and fuel effi ciency of diesel engines. Cum-mins Westport Inc., Westport’s joint venture with Cummins Inc., manufactures and sells the world’s broadest range of low-emissions alternative fuel engines for commercial transportation applications such as vocational trucks and buses. BTIC Westport Inc., Westport's joint venture with Beijing Tianhai Industry Co. Ltd., manufactures and sells LNG fuel tanks for vehicles. Westport’s joint venture with OMVL SpA, Juniper Engines Inc., offers light-duty LPG engine solutions for industrial applications such as forklifts.Westport Innovations Inc. | www.westport.com
Innovative technological solutions Sustainable Development Technol-ogy Canada (SDTC) is an arm’s-length foundation created by the Government of Canada, which has received $1.05 billion as part of the Government’s commitment to create a healthy environment and a high-quality of life for all Cana-dians. SDTC operates two funds aimed at the development and dem-onstration of innovative technologi-cal solutions. The $550 million SD Tech Fund supports projects that address climate change, air quality, clean water, and clean soil. The $500 million NextGen Biofuels Fund supports the establishment of fi rst-of-kind large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels. SDTC operates as a not-for-profi t corpora-tion and has been working with the public and private sector including industry, academia, non-govern-mental organizations (NGOs), the fi nancial community, and all levels of government to achieve this man-date. Look for the SDTC Solutions Showcase and Lunchtime Speakers Series at GLOBE 2010.Sustainable Development Technology Canada www.sdtc.ca
Powering a cleaner tomorrowRun of River Power (ROR Power) develops renewable, sustainable en-ergy through its portfolio of run-of-river and biomass projects in Brit-ish Columbia. The company’s Brandywine Creek run-of-river hydro project is currently producing green, renewable electricity for approxi-mately 4,000 homes. ROR Power’s total development potential, in excess of 740 MW, represents a signifi cant opportunity to help British Columbia meet its demand for clean, sustainable power, and achieve energy self suffi ciency by 2016.Run of River Power Inc. | www.runofriverpower.com
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Platinum Sponsors:
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Clean Technology Tracks
Business Program
Power and Storage
Smart Grid & Infrastructure
Sustainable Industries
Ventures, Investment & Partnering
For more track infowww.techconnectworld.com/Cleantech2010/program/
Don’t miss the most important Clean Technology Event of the Year!
In Partnership with:
Nano-particulate bioreactor technology Bio-Gill Environmental has been established to commercialize a nano-particulate bioreactor tech-nology (NMB) with a wide range of applications, in particular, waste water treatment and recycling. The technology has been successfully demon-strated on a wide range of waste streams including
grey water, sewage, and high- biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) industrial effl u-ents such as grease-trap and brewery waste. The Bio-gill technology differentiates from existing wastewater treatment processes because they do not rely on high en-ergy systems to aerate the water. This offers the opportunity of approaching users and clients on a different costing basis where, in many cases, it can be less expensive to treat and reuse wastewater rather than discharging it to sewer. Bio-Gill Environmental Pty Limited | www.biogill.com
show in print
Environmental strategies & business solutionsThe Delphi Group is a Canadian strategic con-sultancy and solution provider specializing in the areas of climate change and corporate sustainabil-ity. Since 1988, they have been providing climate change and sustainability services in Canada and around the globe. Over the last two decades, they
have completed over 500 sustainability, climate change, and environmental projects for more than 200 corporations including 15 of Canada’s Fortune 100 businesses. As a pioneer in this fi eld, The Delphi Group’s experience and core competencies in technical services, policy analysis, and management consultancy separate them from the crowd and enable them to deliver innovative, valuable, and trusted solutions more effectively. Contact them to fi nd out how they can help reduce costs, liabilities, and compliance risks while enhancing profi tability, reputation, and competitiveness.The Delphi Group | www.delphi.ca
Business opportunities in PolandAs an offi cial representative in Canada of the Ministry of Economy of Poland, Trade & Investment POLAND provides information about commercial and legal conditions in Poland. Their mission is to help Polish companies to identify poten-tial business partners in Canada, and to assist Canadian businesses looking to buy goods and services in Poland or invest in their country. They also facilitate contacts with Polish business organizations, government institutions, and local authorities. Trade & Investment POLAND | www.montreal.trade.gov.pl
Engineering InnovationSandwell, a member of the Ausenco group of com-panies, offers innovative engineering and project management services for clients globally. With 2,200 people across 13 countries around the world, the Ausenco groups of companies provide full service engineering to the minerals, energy, oil and gas, and
environmental sectors. Their focus is to provide innovative Front End solutions; quality Engineering, Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) project delivery; and long term Operational Support. Integral to all Sandwell projects are Greenhouse Gas reduction strategies and technology transformations options.Sandwell Engineering | www.sandwell.com
Non-PVC environmental & safety conduit A new range of PVC-free environmental and safe-ty conduit has been introduced to North America to address world concerns about global warming and buildings’ carbon footprints and environmen-tal sustainability. Evcco PVC-Free Environmental and Safety Conduit, which conforms with BS/EN Standards, is aimed at specifi ers seeking to achieve
the highest environmental ratings for commercial and industrial projects, including both LEED compliance. The innovative Evcco range, manufactured from recycled polymer, is used in diameters up to 150mm to carry electrical and data cabling in surface and in-ground applications, offering low carbon footprints and minimal green house gas emissions while retaining the polymer’s inherent characteristics of lightweight and high-impact resistance.
In both commercial and industrial projects, the halogen-free, fl ame-retardant conduit offers environmental benefi ts and improved safety over other types of conduit. These ad-vantages, as well as its rugged durability across an extensive range of temperature and site conditions, have led to its increasingly broad acceptance for above and in-ground uses.Calair Pipe Systems | www.calair.net.au
Clean air kitsWCAFI (World Clean Air Forest Initiative) is a UK-based non-profi t that works towards a single goal to clean the air. They try to counter climate change, deforesta-tion, and pollution, which has a negative effect on the air. They do this via their Clean Air Tree Kit, which contains everything needed to grow and plant one’s own tree. The kit’s globe is made from potato waste and is 100% biodegradable. Plant a clean air tree in a home garden or in a locally designated planting area to benefi t the community, and use the special pin code that comes in the tree kit to register on WCAFI’s website and map. Not only that, but for every Clean Air Tree Kit sold, WCAFI will plant another tree with their tree-planting partners around the world. Essentially, buy one tree kit and plant two trees.World Clean Air Forest Initiative | www.wcafi .org
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Smart Solutions for a Changing World
April 19-22, 2010Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
New Orleans, Louisiana
Today’s transmission and distribution professionals need to understand what’s happening…and why. As a professional
a firm grasp of the technologies that will boost your company’s efficiency, effectiveness and reliability
is a must. That’s why you need to attend and participate in the 2010 IEEE PES Transmission and Distribution
Conference and Exposition.
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l.TECH PROGRAMAttendees can participate in and choose from the following:
• Over 200 poster and conference papers written and designed to address every conceivable subject.
• Panel sessions detailing the latest technological innovations.
• Educational tracks with university professors lecturing on power engineering advancements.
• Info sessions that allow experts to detail the exciting dimensions of their business.
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The hundreds of companies exhibiting
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For the latest information and updates go to:
www.ieeet-d.org
The clean technology in-dustry has seen a dramatic shift in the past decade, and all signs point to even further change as countries around the world grapple for new ways to deal with increased costs, resource scarcity, and the effects of global warming.
Nicholas Parker is ex-ecutive chairman and co-founder of Cleantech Group, a company that aims to accelerate the
market adoption of clean technology by provid-ing research and advisory services, and organ-izing events. Parker recently sat down to discuss the future of the clean technology industry in a post-Copenhagen world.
Since 2002, how has the clean technology and clean energy industries changed?NP: Dramatically. It’s gone from being a cot-tage industry to a mainstream industry, and the amount of capital that is being employed beyond all recognition from what it was eight to 10 years ago. The corporations have moved from
risk management to stakeholder engagement and now they’re looking for the green growth opportunities.
What has prompted that change?NP: A number of things have prompted it but I think the products and services derived from new technology are increasing cost competitive, with the same or better effi cacy of traditional ways of doing things so I think that’s fundamen-tally driving it. Secondly, I think policy and price signals have begun to kick in to create a market and reshape how people think they need to
produce and consume and supply. Then, I think what has also changed is the quality of the peo-ple who are involved. You’ve got a much higher quality of entrepreneur and corporate leaders.
It seems to have a lot of momentum. Do you think that’s sustainable or do we need governments to sustain that momentum?NP: I think this will happen regardless of wheth-er policy at the national or international level kicks in because the sheer price signals from resource scarcity are going to drive changes. Things like energy, food and water are going to become a lot more expensive. Where policy matters is in helping to bring some order to the chaos of this shift, which is increasingly pro-nounced and is going to be multi-decade long. So, government policy can help in the sense of bringing order and making this less socially painful. But, it’s going to happen and there’s go-ing to be investor bubbles areas that get a little too hot but basically we’ve got a long-term fl ip into reintegrating how we organize ourselves around ecological principals.
From an investor perspective, what we really need is a price on carbon, one way or another, that is long-term, transparent and signifi cant enough that it affects investment decisions. My own feeling is that, I think it’s going to happen anyway. I think just sheer market price signals for commodities like oil and other things will drive change regardless of the outcome.
You work a lot with investors. For a clean energy company that would be starting up, what are some of the things they could do to access that investment capital that’s out there.NP: Part of the challenges in the clean tech/clean energy space is that we’re hung up on the technology when we don’t have enough of a go-to-market approach as one might have in other knowledge based industries. Investors are looking at the go-to-market stuff. They don’t want to get hung up on the technology, they want to know why and how there’s a market for it. Secondly, investors invest in people, fi rst and foremost, so the quality of your management team in bringing things to scale is super impor-tant. And, third, [investors want to] know there’s a supportive environment around the company. Is the host community a good place to do busi-ness? Are there incentives and rewards for this? Is there an available supply of all kinds of the good things one needs? To grow a clean energy company in a region that is not known for being a clean energy hub is diffi cult.
Where do you see the money going, as far as the clean energy sector?NP: In a range of ways. First of all, there’s going to be software systems for managing carbon and effi ciency. Secondly, the smart grid is a huge area where embedded intelligence will be deployed. And, thirdly, kind of the background story is, IT systems being used to identify new molecules for biomaterials using high throughput screen-ing—it’s the use of (technology) for the research and development of things. So, it’s both front-end and back-end. Specifi c products areas would be energy management systems and buildings through to smart grid. And, how we hook up all these different assets requires a lot of embed-ded intelligence. But what gets measured gets managed and our ability to measure these things at ever more refi ned levels allows us to manage ecological assets at ever more refi ned levels.
Cleantech Group will be hosting a “Clean Technology Day” at GLOBE 2010, where venture capitalists and entrepreneurs of start-ups who are on the supply side of technology and innovation will meet the demand side, which is major corporations and government.
Cleantech Group | http://cleantech.com
Q&A: Where Clean Technology is Headed
Nicholas Parker
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73North American Clean Energy
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74 January / February 2010 nacleanenergy.com
eventscalendarMARCH 201024-26 GLOBE 2010 Vancouver, BC—Vancouver Convention Centre; www.globe2010.com
APRIL 201012-16 ENERGY and ENVIRONMENT WEEK Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—David L Lawrence Convention Center; www.ee-week.com
16-21 18th World Hydrogen Conference 2010 Essen, Germany—Messe Essen; www.whec2010.com
19-22 2010 IEEE PES Transmission and Distribution Conference and Exposition New Orleans, Louisiana—Ernest N Morial Convention Center; www.ieeet-d.org
25-30 2010 World Geothermal Congress Bali, Indonesia—Bali International Convention Centre; www.wgc2010.org
MAY 201003-06 NHA Hydrogen Conference & Expo 2010 Long Beach, California—Long Beach Convention Center; www.hydrogenconference.org
04-06 International Biomass Conference & Expo Minneapolis, Minnesota—Minneapolis Convention Center; www.biomassconference.com
16-21 World Hydrogen Energy Conference 2010 Essen, Germany—Messe Essen; www.whec2010.com
17-22 Solar 2010: ASES National Solar Conference Phoenix, Arizona—Phoenix Convention Center; http://ases.org
23-26 WINDPOWER 2010 Dallas, Texas—Dallas Convention Center; www.windpowerexpo.org
JUNE 20108-10 EnergyOcean 2010 Ft Lauderdale, Florida—Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa http://energyocean.com/2010
09-11 Intersolar 2010 Munich, Germany—New Trade Fair Centre; www.intersolar.de
15-16 28th West Coast Energy Management Congress Seattle, Washington—State Convention Center; www.energyevent.com
14-16 Smart Electricity World Los Angeles, California—Millennium Biltmore Hotel; www.terrapinn.com/2010/sewusaca
21-25 Clean Technology Conference & Expo 2010 Anaheim, California—Anaheim Convention Center; www.csievents.org/Cleantech2010
JULY 201013-15 Intersolar North America San Francisco, California—Moscone Center; www.intersolar.us
22 GEA Geothermal Energy Workshop Las Vegas, Nevada—Las Vegas Convention Center; www.geo-energy.org
27-30 HydroVision International Charlotte, North Carolina—Charlotte Convention Center; www.hydroevent.com
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