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Pacific Energy Center
851 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Basics of Photovoltaic (PV) Systemsfor Grid-Tied Applications
Courtesy of DOE/NREL
instructor
Pete Shoemaker
Energy Training Center
1129 Enterprise St.
Stockton, CA 95204
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Basics of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
for Grid-Tied Applications
Material in this presentation is protected by Copyright law.Reproduction, display, or distribution in print or electronicformats without written permission of rights holders is
prohibited.
Disclaimer: The information in this document is believed to accuratelydescribe the technologies described herein and are meant to clarify andillustrate typical situations, which must be appropriately adapted toindividual circumstances. These materials were prepared to be used in
conjunction with a free, educational program and are not intended toprovide legal advice or establish legal standards of reasonablebehavior. Neither Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) nor anyof its employees and agents: (1) makes any written or oral warranty,expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, those concerningmerchantability or fitness for a particular purpose; (2) assumes any
legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of anyinformation, apparatus, product, process, method, or policy containedherein; or (3) represents that its use would not infringe any privatelyowned rights, including, but not limited to, patents, trademarks, orcopyrights.
Some images displayed may not be in the printed booklet because of copyright restrictions.
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www.pge.com/solarPG&E Solar Information
www.pge.com/pec
Pacific Energy Center (San Francisco)
http://www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/workshopstraining/stockton
Energy Training Center (Stockton)
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Pete ShoemakerPacific Energy Center851 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 973-8850
Contact Information
Some images displayed may not be in the printed booklet because of copyright restrictions.
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5
Agenda
1. Big picture: Team Cali fornia
2. Electricity Fundamentals3. PV Technology
4. Feasibility
5. Finances
6. Sales & Instal lation Process
7. Jobs Overview and Future Trends
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6Pacific Energy CenterSan Francisco
One Minute Summary
Buy your own power plant
The basic economics are
just like the rent vs. buyof purchasing a home.
Your hom e needs
electricity
Sameelectricity
Courtesy of DOE/NREL Source: Pete Shoemaker
CURRENT POSSIBLE
Rent a portion of utility grid output
RENT OWN
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7Pacific Energy CenterSan Francisco
The Big Picture:
Team California
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The California Regulated Utility
Financial Structure
How the utili ties make money,
and why they can support energy
efficiency and conservation.
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Cali fornias regulated uti l i ties cover mostof the state.
PG&ESouthern California
Edison (SCE)
San Diego Gas &Electric (SDG&E)
Southern CaliforniaGas (SoCalGas)
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They are essentially monopolies in theirrespective territories, and so need to beregulated.
CPUC
The California Public Util ities Commission isthe regulatory body.
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30 years ago, the uti li ties made money like mostbusinesses: on profits from sales.
The more energy they sold, the more profitthey made.
Energy Sales
Profits
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Also 30 years ago, Californias power
consumption was rising rapidly, along with therest of the country.
Per-capita powerconsumption.
U.S.
California
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Projecting this into the future made people
realize that it was not sustainable, and thatsomething needed to be done.
Very high utility bills
Many more new power plants
Serious environmental consequences
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We needed to lower peoples energy usage,
but how?
The utili ty companies had to be involved, buthow could you require them to encourageless energy usage, since their profits andbusiness model depended on more sales?
Conclusion:
The utili ty financial structure must change.
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DECOUPLINGSeparating profits from sales.
Energy Sales
Profits
Energy Sales Profits
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Since 1978 (gas) and 1982 (electricity)Californias regulated utili ties have made
profits on INVESTMENTS, not SALES.
These investments are directed by the CPUCand include energy efficiency andconservation.
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Example of EE investment and target:
1.The CPUC authorizes PG&E to spend themoney to give away 1,000,000 CFLs.
2.The target over 3 years is to reduce electricconsumption [xx] mWh.
3.If PG&E makes the target they can set ratesso that they earn [x]% for theirshareholders.
4.If they exceed the target they can earnmore, if they miss the target they earn lessor even get penalized.
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California uti li ties have NO incentive to
increase energy usage.
They DO have mandates and incentives forenergy effic iency, conservation, and
renewables.
The result?Cali fornia, and PG&E, is the leader in
energy eff iciency and renewablegeneration.
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Solar Electric Trends
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Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration,Electric Power Monthly
Geothermal 4%
Wind3%
Small Hydro 3%Solar
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Cou rtesy PG&E
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Cou rtesy PG&E
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Cou rtesy PG&E
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Cali fornia Public Uti l i ties Commission
(CPUC) Loading OrderHow we fill in new supply in California
1. Energy Efficiency/Demand response2. Renewables
3. Distributed Generation (such as CHP)
4. Conventional efficient fossil generation
The Big Picture
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Total energy consumed = 40.67
Over 2/3 of the energy is wasted.
Delivered for end use = 13.21 (32%)
U.S. Electricity Generation 2008
Source: Energy Information Adminis tration / Annual Energy Rev iew 2008
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Energy Conservation
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3 times the value!
Energy Conservation
Thats leverage!
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PG&E Portfolio Solution
ReduceEnergy
Use
RenewablePower
Supply
ClimateSmart
PartnershipEducation
Outreach
1) Reduce consumption as
much as possible.
2) Get thegreenestpower you
can.3) Offset anyremainingcarbonemissions.
PG&E as a Partner and Solutions Provider
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Electricity Fundamentals
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Electricity Fundamentals
Waterpressure
Output
(work done)
Amount of flow
Elec.
pressure
Amount of flow
Output
Volts
Amps
Watts
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Watt (W) = Basic unit of PowerIn generator: Capacity to do work
In appliance (load): Requirement for work to be done
Electrical terms:Amps x Volts = Watts
5A x 12V = 60 W 0.5A x 120V = 60 W
Kilowatt (kW), Megawatt (MW)
1 kW = 1,000 Watts2.5 kW = 2,500 Watts1 MW = 1,000,000 Watts500 MW = 500,000,000 Watts
Electricity Fundamentals
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Electricity Fundamentals
Power over time = Work
Watts over time = Watt-hours (Wh)
1 sec.
Instantaneouspower: 20 W
1 hourPower overtime: 20 Wh
Power x Time
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Electricity Fundamentals
Watt-hour (Wh) x 1000 = Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
In a generator:
How many kWh are produced when a 5 kW PV systemoperates at ful l power for 6 hours? 30 kWh
In a load:
How many kWh are used when a 200 W bulb shines for10 hours? 2000 Wh or 2 kWh
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Voltage and Current
Area of rectangle = total power (watts)
Same area = same power, just in different form.
Amps
Volts
Amps
Volts
Volts x Amps = Watts
Watts
Watts
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Voltage and Current
The larger the current, the larger the wire needed tomake it flow efficiently (more pipe ).
Copper wire is expensive.Using higher voltage allows the same amount of powerto be transmitted with lower current, saving money.
20 amps
2 amps
T f El i l C
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DC = Direct current
*PV panels produce DC*Batteries only store DC
AC = Alternating current*Utility Power
Types of Electrical Current
Voltage x Time
1/60 of a second
60 Hertz in U.S.(60 cycles / second)
+V
0V
-V
AC power can be stepped up and down in voltage mucheasier than DC power, therefore most power is AC.
Th El t i G id
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The Electric Grid
Source: PG&E
Th El t i G id
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Electricity can be transported at the speed of light,therefore any point can be said to be connected toall others.
This network is called the GRID and is nation-wide.
Source: NRELSource: NPRhttp://ww w .npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=110997398
The Electric Grid
Th El t i G id
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Generation: Creating electricity.
Transmission: Moving it in bulk fromgenerators to distribution centers.
Distribution: Bringing it from centers(sub-stations) to individual homes andbusinesses.
There are three main components of the grid:
Source: NREL
The Electric Grid
Th El t i G id
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Generation
10,000 V (10 kV)
Above 50,000 V (69 kV up to 765 kV)
TransmissionStepup
Stepdown
Sub-station
Distribution
12,000 V (12 kV)
Stepdown
120V 240V
Home480V
Business
Source: NREL
The Electric Grid
Grid Terms
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Grid Terms
Supply side
Generation
Demand side
Usage (load)
Source: NREL
Grid Terms
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Baseload: Minimum amount of power that isalways needed
Seasonal load: Increase in demand inspecific times of the year.
Peak load: Maximum amount needed.
Capacity: Total power that the system can
provide.
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Baseload
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Seasonal load
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Peak load
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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Highest demand occurs on only a few hours in the year
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
14000
16000
18000
20000
1 501 1001 1501 2001 2501 3001 3501 4001 4501 5001 5501 6001 6501 7001 7501 8001 8501
Time
MWs
The top 50 Hoursrepresent 0.6% of thetotal hours in a year
Load Duration CurveLoad Duration Curve
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Capacity
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Unused Capacity
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Spread out the demand and you
can lower the capacity need.
Grid Terms
Grid Terms
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Demand Management or
Demand-side Management
Load-shifting
How do you get people to use less powerduring peak times and more during off-peak?
Grid Terms
Demand Management Strategies
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Demand Management Strategies
1. Reduce overall load. Energy efficiency, conservation
2. Inform people so they can cooperatevoluntarily. Publicity, Flex Your Power alerts
3. Create the ability to remotely turn offcertain appliances. Smart AC, smart meters, etc.
4. Charge more for peak usage. Time-of-Use rates, Peak-Time pric ing
and others.
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PV Technology
Different types of Solar
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Light energyPhotovol taic (PV)
Electricity produced directly from light
Different types of Solar
Heat energy
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP)
Electricity produced by steam
Solar Pool Heating
Hot waterfor pools
Solar Water Heating (SWH orSolar Thermal)
Hot waterfor domestic use (DHW)All courtesy of DOE/NREL
Water Heating
Solar Electricity
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Solar Electricity
Photovoltaic Effect
photo = l ight; vol taic = produces vol tagePhotovoltaic (PV) systems convert l ight directly
into electricity (using semiconductors)
Electron Orbits
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Electron Orbits
Free electron
How a PV Cell Works
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How a PV Cell Works
Antireflective coating
N-Layer (Phosphorus)
P-N Junction
Metallic Contact Finger(electron pickup)
P-Layer (Boron)
Electron flow
-
+Metallic back contact
Sunlight
Solar Cells & the PV Effect
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Usually produced with semiconductor grade
silicon Dopants create positive and negative regions
P/N junction results in .5 volts per cell
Sunlight knocks available electrons loose forpotential electrical current
Wire grid provides path for current
Solar Cells & the PV Effect
PV Terminology
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ArrayModuleCell
PV Terminology
Courtesy of DOE/NREL
PV System Sizing
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200 HP engine: means that 200
horsepower is the MAXIMUM it willproduce.
4 kW PV system: means that 4,000watts (4 kW) is the MAXIMUM it will
produce in full sunlight.
y g
Crystalline Silicon (Mono)
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Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Crystalline Silicon (Poly)
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Source: Darren Bouton
y ( y)
Crystal l ine Si l icon PV Products
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64Source: DOE Nat ional Renewable Energy Laboratory
Firm, like crystals
Longest track record, over 50 years
Most common, over 85% of the market
Highest efficiencies: avg. 15%, up to 22%
Requires about 100 sf. per kilowatt
Thin-Fi lm PV Products
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Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Thin-Fi lm PV Products
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66
Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Sour ce: DOE Natio nal Renewable Energy Laboratory
Can be applied on many different materials
Longevity still to be proven
Production growing at high rate
Lower efficiencies: avg. 7%, up to 15%
Has potential for big cost reduction
Requires about 200 sf. per kilowatt
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PV General Rules
Crystal l ine PV Products
Efficiencies (rated) range from 12-22%Space required: 90-150 s.f. per kW
Thin-Fi lm PV Products
Efficiencies (rated) range from 5-10%
Space requi red: 170-300 s.f. per kW
Crystalline vs. Thin-Film
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1.2 kWCrystallineSilicon
Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
1.2 kWThin-Film
Thin -film needs about twice as much
space fo r the same-size system, bu tthe total cost is about the same.
Efficiency vs. Capacity
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1.2 kW (1,200w)75 square feet16w per sq.ft.
Courtesy of DOE/NREL
1.2 kW (1,200w)150 square feet8w per sq.ft.
Capacity = totalpower
Efficiency =power per sq.ft.
Heat effect
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Courtesy: Schott Solar
Air temperature70 F
Under modules120 F
Roof surface100 F
Crystal l ine vs. Thin-Fi lm: Heat response
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Heat increases electrical resistance, whichlowers power output.
Output begins dropping at 20C (68F).
Percentage of drop is called Temperature
Coeffic ient of Power. It is measured in % per degree Centigrade,
i.e. -0.35%/C
Thin film degrades less than crystall ine.
Crystal l ine vs. Thin-Fi lm: Heat response
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Crystalline -0.478% Thin film -0.19%
Sample data from spec sheets
Crystal l ine vs. Thin-Fi lm: Heat response
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60
65
70
75
80
8590
95
100
20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
Degrees Centigrade
%o
fPower
Thin Film Crystalline
(68) (86) (113) (140)
(Fahrenheit)
PV Panel Technology SummaryModule Cell Sample Companies
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Technology Descr iptionEfficiency
CommercialEfficiency
LaboratorEmploying
Techno lo ies
Cryst alline Silicon
Single Crystal Grown in Cylinders and wire- orlaser-sliced into circular wafers as
thin as 200 microns. Cells are
circular and modules are inherently
flat black or charcoal.
14 - 15% 25% BP Solar
GE/AstroPower
Sanyo
Sharp
SunWorld
Multi-Crystalline Cast in blocks or drawn through adie to create a "ribbon" and wire-
sliced or cut into rectangular
wafers. Cells are typically vibrantblue.
12 - 14% 19% BP Solar
Evergreen Solar
Kyocera Solar
Schott SolarSharp
SunWorld
Thin-Film Materials
Amorphous Silicon(a-Si)
Cell and module production part of
same process. Widely used in
consumer products and on flexible
substrates.
5 - 7% 13% BP Solar
Kaneka Solar
TerraSolar
United Solar Ovonic
Copper Indium Diselenide
(CIS)
Alternative semiconducto r material
under commercia lization.
8 - 10% 19% Global Solar
Shell Solar
Cadmium Telluride(CdTe)
Alternative semiconducto r materialunder commercia lization.
7 - 9% 17% BP Solar First Solar
Near single-atom vapor or electro-deposition on low-cost materials (glass, stainless steel, or
plastic). Modules can be flexible. Appearance dark charcoal to near black; can also be semi-
transparent.
The orignal approach; grow silicon crystal structures in a variety of ways. Represents almost 90%
of total market. Appearance dark blue to black but other colors possible with changes to anti-
reflective coatings.
Growth Forecast?
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Source: Renewable Energy World.com
Inverters
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76Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Inverter
DC AC
Changes Direct Current (DC) to
Alternating Current (AC)
Inverters
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77Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Range in size from 1 Kw to 500+ Kw
Can easily be connected together,even different models
Best to locate in cooler area
Source: Darren Bouton
Inverters
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78Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Strings must be of specific length and number,of equal size, and on the same plane.
Power production is very sensitive to shading.
Inverter
Strings of modules
Typical system layout
Panel &meter
System Inverters: Online string sizing tool
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79Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Limited configurations, cannot deviate.
Inverters
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80Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Micro-inverter
One per module
Inverts DC to AC right there
Combiner box &communicator
Panel &meter
System layout
Reliability
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81Pacific Energy Center
San Francisco
Source: NASA
Reliability
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82Pacific Energy CenterSan Francisco
Mature technologyover 50 years old Essential to the space program
Millions in use Products tested and approved by CEC Long warranties backed by large,
stable companies
20 to 25 years on panels
10 to 25 years on inverters 10 year labor warranty
It works during the day, but what about at night?
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83
Courtesy of DOE/NREL
Previously, there was
only one solution:Store the excess inbatteries during the day,then draw off thebatteries at night, orwhen its cloudy.
But now?
Net Metering
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The uti li ty grid is a two-way street!
Electrici ty can be sentback to the grid by thecustomer.
Eliminates the need for batteries.
Reduces cost and maintenance.
Ensures a constant supply of electrici ty.
XSource: Andy Black
Source: DOE NREL
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
Typical System Components
Array Inverter
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Meter
LoadsSource: Darren Bouton
Balance of System
(BOS)
Panel
Typical System Components
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86
1. Solar array
2. Inverter
3. House electrical
panel
Source: PG&E
Monitoring
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Extra hardware sends inverter data to internet
Inverter company or 3rd party hosts website
Customer can view system from home or remotely
Current and historical data can be displayed
Can cost extra but somecompanies are offering it asstandard package.
Cou rtesy SMA htt p:/ /www.sma.de/en/products/monitor ing-systems/sunny-beam-with-bluetooth r.html
Monitoring
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Total system history.
Real-time, per panel.
Cou rtesy Enphase ht tp: //enligh ten.enphaseenergy.com/public /systems/LWtm4844
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89
Feasibility
Solar Geometry
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90
Solar Geometry
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91
Plane of the Ecliptic
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92
Solar Geometry
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93
ACTUAL:The sun radiates in all
directions.
EXPERIENTIAL:On Earth all radiation from the
sun is parallel to one another.
Horizonin winter
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94
Source: Wikipedia
Horizon insummer
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95
This ray strikes parallel to the surface.
This ray strikes perpendicular to the surface.
This ray strikes +45 degree angle to the surface.
Latitude and Longitude
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96
Sun Path
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97
NS
E
W
Spring/Fall Noon:90o Latitude52.5o in SF
Winter Noon:90o Latitude 23.529o in SF
Summer Noon:90o Latitude +23.5
76o in SF
Winter: Rises 30o south ofE
Summer: Rises 30o north ofE
Source: PG&E
Sun Path Overhead Projection
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98
Sun Path Overhead Projection
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99
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100
Source: NASA
Summer sun
Winter sun
Sun Path Horizon Projection
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101Edward Mazria. Passive Solar Energy Book, Expanded
Professional Edition
Rodale Press, 1979, Pg. 311
Sun Chart: San Francisco
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Source: University of Oregon, Solar Radiation Monitoring Laboratory
http://solardat.uoregon.edu/SunChartProgram.html
Does the si te havean appropriate southern exposure?
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103
Use a compass to identi fy north (and thus south),a fi rst step in assessing solar access at a site.
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104
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105
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106
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107
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108
San Francisco: declination = 14
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109
In west:
True azimuth = Compass azimuth + Declination
True south reads as 166
true
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110
In east:
True azimuth = Compass azimuth - Declination
true
Magnetic South vs. True South
Magnetic South = Compass South
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111
A compass aligns with the earths magnetic field, which is not
exactly aligned with the earths rotational axis. Magnetic Declination = the number of degrees that true south is
east or west from magnetic south.
True south ~ 15 east of magnetic south
(SF, SJ, Stockton)
Magnetic South = Compass South
True South = Solar SouthNOTE: go to National Geophysical Data Center (NGDC) at
http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/seg/geomag/jsp/Declination.jsp
to determine your sites magnetic declination
Describing Location of the Sun
First understand where it is!
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Azimuth - horizontalangle of sun east or westof due south
Altitude - angle of sunabove the horizon
Azimuth and altitudedescribe the location ofthe sun in the sky at agiven time.
Illustration from Environmental Control Systemsby
Fuller Moore, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1993, p. 76.
270
180
90
0
45
1 S t ti l (i l ti )
PV Siting Issues to Consider
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113
1. Sun energy potential (insolation)
2. Space
3. Shading
4. Orientation (N S)
5. Tilt angle6. Aesthetics
Peak Sun Hours Equivalent
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114
Digital sunlight
1000
w/m
Peak Sun Hours Equivalent
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115
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
Hours of t he Day
KwhProduced
Typical daily pattern
3 00
Peak Sun Hours Equivalent
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0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
Hours of t he Day
KwhProduced
Equal areas
What is the solar resource potential?
Peak Sun-hours Measured in kWh/m2/day
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117Source: DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Resource Assessment Program
http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/old_data/nsrdb/redbook/atlas/serve.cgi
What is the solar resource potential?
Peak Sun-hours Measured in kWh/m2/day
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Monthly Percentages
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Percentage of yearly insolation per month
Ratio of sunniest six months to least sunny (summer to winter)
Source: morehead.unc.edu
Cali fornia cl imate ideal for solar
Weather/Sun Potential Summary
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Panels produce in al l l ight
Fog has cooling effect, which raises
efficiency
Microcl imates l ikely less than 15%
loss from normal
Roof / Ground Area:
Space Requirements
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Crystal l ine Si l icon
90-150 square feet per kW
Thin-Film
170-250 square feet per kW
Note: Consideration should also be given for access
to the system (can add up to 20% of needed area)
For a 4 kW residential system:
Crystalline: 360 to 600 sf.
Thin fi lm: 650 to 1000 sf.
Space Requirements: Overhead Photos
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122
47 x 13 = 611 sf.
PV Orientation
NorthFor til ted roof:
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123
West East
South
OKVerygood
Good
Not
good
N
PV Orientation
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124
W E
S
Overheadmaps: true N-S
Tilt
Tilt = Angle at which the collectors aremounted relative to 0 (flat horizontal surface)
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mounted relative to 0 (flat horizontal surface)
tilt angleEx. 30
Tilt
12 ft.
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126
4 ft.
18 deg.
Typical roof in this area is 4:12.
For every 12 feet horizontal, it drops 4 feet.
This equals 18 degrees up from horizontal.
Normal roof pitch is a very good mounting angle.
South
Tilt Angle vs. Building Orientation
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127
0
Flat
18
4:12
30
7:12
45
12:12
60
21:12
90
Vertical0 (South) 0.89 0.97 1.00 0.97 0.89 0.5823 (SSE, SSW) 0.89 0.97 0.99 0.96 0.88 0.59
45 (SE, SW) 0.89 0.95 0.96 0.93 0.85 0.60
68 (ESE, WSW) 0.89 0.92 0.91 0.87 0.79 0.57
90 (E, W) 0.89 0.88 0.84 0.78 0.70 0.52
Source: A Guide to Photov oltaic (PV) System Design and Installation -- CEC, June 2001
Orientati
on/Degrees
fromS
Bottom line: Tilt is a factor, but not a major one.
Tracking
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128
Cou rtesy of DOE/NREL
For most home systems, the extra expense and maintenance oftracking motors is not worth the eff iciency gain. Better to buy a fewextra panels.
For large commercial systems it may be worth it.
Will the PV system be free from shade?
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129Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
72-cell PV module
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Copyright Solmetric 2010
+
72-cell PV module with bypass diodes
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Copyright Solmetric 2010
+
Module I-V curve with shaded cell strings
Cell
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Copyright Solmetric 2010
I
VCell string
Shade one cell of one cell stringOne bypass diode turns on
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Copyright Solmetric 2010
I
V
Shade one cell in each of two cell stringsTwo bypass diodes turn on
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Copyright Solmetric 2010
I
V
Monocrystalline Shading Effect
Partial Module Shading Effect3
UnshadedModule
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0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
0 5 10 15 20 25
Volts
Amps
Unshaded Module
1 cell 25%
shaded
1 cell 50%
shaded
1 cell 75%
shaded
1 cell 100%
shaded
The Extreme Effects of Shading
% of One Cell Shaded % Loss of Module Power
0 % 0%
25 % 25 %
50 % 50 %
75 % 66 %
l00 % 75 %
with 3 cells shaded 93 %
Courtesy: Solar Energy International
Per-Module Devices
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Solar MagicNational Semiconductor
Module MaximizerTigo Energy
PowerBoxSolar Edge
Enphase Microinverter
Enphase Energy
Direct Grid Microinverter
Direct Grid Technologies
SunMizer
Xandex
Parallux vBoost
eIQ Energy
PV AC ModuleEXELTECH
Microinverter
Per-Module Devices: Two Basic Types
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Changes DC to ACNeeds no other inverter
Module MaximizerTigo Energy
Enphase MicroinverterEnphase Energy
MaximizerAdjusts DC voltage: DC to DC
Needs system inverter
PV Requirements
Solar Access
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Solar Window = 9 am - 3 pm (ideal)8 am - 4 pm (possible)
Need minimum of 4 hours during solar
window with no shade (prefer 5 hours)
Summer more important than winter
Shading
Solar WindowSunriseSunset
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Shade-free from 9 to 3
Good chance for PV
Shading
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140
Bad chance for PV
Planning for Shade
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141Sourc e: PEC Staff
S 2 to 1 ratiorecommended
Planning for Shade
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142Sourc e: PEC Staff
2 ft .
1 ft .
No good
Solar Pathfinder
Used to gain a quick and approximate understandingofsolar access and objects on the horizon that shade a
given location.
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Latitude specific sun path diagram isplaced in the pathfinder.
The transparent, convex plastic domereflects objects on the horizon, enablingthe user to see the relationship betweenthese objects and the path of the sun.
Obstructions can be traced onto sunpathdiagram.
g
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144Courtesy of Andy Black
Solmetric SunEyeTM
110210
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145
Courtesy: Solmetric, Corp.
Sunpath View
Visuallydemonstrates
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146
seasonal sunpath andshading effectsof obstructions
Summarytabular data
Courtesy: Solmetric, Corp.
Detailed View
Chart shows
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147
proportion of totalsolar energyavailable at thissite each month
Courtesy: Solmetric, Corp.
Where to Go for Tools
Pacific Energy Center: Tool Lending Library
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gy g y
Phone: 415-973-9945Email: [email protected]
Pacific Energy Center Web Site:www.pge.com/pec/tll
How will PV affect site aesthetics?
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149Source: Darren Bouton
How will PV affect site aesthetics?
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150Source: Darren Bouton
Don t put a new PV system on an old roof!
Minimum roof l ife should be 5 7 years.
G d id t d PV d f t ti
Roof Issues
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Good idea to do PV and roof at same time
Estimate for panel removal/replacement is $1,000 perKw of system size.
Cou rtesy Lon don Flat Roofing, Ltd http://www.londonflatroofing.co.uk/flat-roof-repairs/asphalt-flat-roofs/
www.csi-epbb.com
Official program for CSI rebate, everyone must
Online Production Calculator
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p g y
use. Buyers dont have to trust the salesperson .
Takes all relevant factors as input and gives
estimated annual production and rebateamount.
Online Production Calculator
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Online Production Calculator
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Online Production Calculator
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Online Production Calculator: Shading
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Online Production Calculator: Shading
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No shade With shade
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Finances
Sell Power to theUtil ity by Day
Net Metering
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159
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
y y y
Buy Power at Nightand Winter
Exchange at Retail Annual Cycle
.
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
Net Metering No Blackout Protection
Unsafe to send livepower into grid while
workers repairingX
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160
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
p g
downed lines
XNo voltage reservoirmeans house currentcould fluctuate anddamage appliances
Reduce Your Energy Bills!
Spin Your Meter Slower Use the electricity you generate
first to reduce electricity youwould normally buy from the
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Source: Darren Bouton
would normally buy from the
utility or electric service provider
Spin Your Meter Backwards
Excess electricity generatedgoes through your meter andinto the grid
Spins your meter backwards!
Get credit for stored electricityon the grid
Net Metering
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Customer side Utility side
Meter
Generation: 3 kWh Surplus: 2 kWh
Net Metering
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Customer side Utility side
Meter
Load: 1 kWh
p
Cash credit: $ .60
2 kWh @ $(going rate)
Generation: 1 kWh Surplus: 0 kWh
Net Metering
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Customer side Utility side
Meter
Load: 1 kWh
p
Cash credit: $ .00
Need: 1 kWhGeneration: 0 kWh
Net Metering
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Customer side Utility side
Meter
Load: 1 kWhCash debit: $ .09
1 kWh @ $(going rate)
What do you get paid if your system over-produces?
Wholesale cost: $.10/kwhMarkup to cover grid
maintenance: $.06/kwh
Cost of power at $.16/Kwh
Net Metering
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CPUC rulePG&E must comply
The full retail rate that PV owners get paid for their
power includes a subsidy (markup) that comes fromall rate payers.
The CPUC determined that this full subsidy wouldonly be allowed to cover your usage, not for you to go
into the power-generation business. For over-product ion, compensation will be at a lower
rate, to be determined.
Net Metering
750
kWh/mo
Roll over
Av erage monthly usage
PV system product ion
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OctoberMay April SUMMER WINTER
250
500
750
kWh/mo
Av erage monthly usage
PV system product ion
The surplus covers the shortfall,and your yearly bill is minimal.
Net Metering
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OctoberMay April SUMMER WINTER
250
500
750
kWh/mo
Av erage monthly usage
PV system product ion
PV system produces less thanyour yearly usage.
Net Metering
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OctoberMay April SUMMER WINTER
250
500
You pay th is amount
750
kWh/mo
Av erage monthly usage
PV system product ion
PV system produces morethan your yearly usage.
Net Metering
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OctoberMay April SUMMER WINTER
250
500
You are paid a different rate for th is amount around 4 per kWh.
Two fundamentally different concepts:
Net Metering
Methods of Payment
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Serves the onsite load FIRST, theninteracts with the utility grid.
Feed-in TariffDoes not serve the onsite load andONLY interacts with the utili ty grid.
One meter
Two meters
Generation track
Feed-in Tariff
Feed-in (credit)Meter
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Usage track
Usage (debit)
Meter
Net Metering vs. Feed-in Tariff
Net Metering:
For PV systems from 1 kW to 1 mW
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Feed-in Tariff:
For PV systems from 1 mW to 20 mW.See www.pge.com/feedintariffs
Net EnergyMetering
CaliforniaSolar
Initiative
Available
PG&E
Programs
SelfGenerationIncentiveProgram
PG&E Renewable Energy Programs
SolarWaterHeating(CSIThermal)
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Customerscale Utilityscale
NetEnergy
Metering
UtilityOwnedRenewables*
Programs
FeedinTariffPrograms*
RenewablesRFO
RenewableAuctionMechanism*
PVRFO*
SystemSize 1
kW 1
MW 100
MW
++20
MW100
kW 3
MW
*Neworrevisedprogram
RenewableAuctionMechanism*
Rate Schedules (Tariffs)
Two main types of residential rates:
TIERED (E-1)
Th th
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The more you use, the more you pay.Baseline amounts plus tier charges based onpercentage of baseline.
Time-of-Use (TOU)
Additional factor depending on when youuse the power.
PG&E BaselineTerri tory Map
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Baseline=guaranteed minimumamount of low cost electricity
for everyone--all income levels.
Baseline allocation determined bygeographic territory averages.
PG&E Baseline Territory Allocations
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177
PG&E monthly electric bill for a large home user:
Tiered Rate (E-1)
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178
PG&E monthly electric bill for a large home user:
Tiered Rate (E-1)
Baseline = 9.8 x 33 = 323.4 kWh
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978.00
= $ 38.41= $ 13.10
= $ 65.79= $ 129.46= $ 3.12
$ 249.88
Used 978 Kwh costing $ 249.88
5 rate tiers1
2
34
5
Baseline 9.8 x 33 323.4 kWh
Breakdown of charges:
Tiered Rate (E-1)
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E-1 / PG&E Standard Rate Schedule (Residential)
PG&E E-1 Residential Rate 6/1/10
29.1
40.0 40.0
30.0
35.0
40.0
45.0
Wh
29.5
33.5 33.5
As of 1/1/12
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11.913.5
0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
Less than
100%
101% -
130%
131% -
200%
201% -
300%
Over 300%
Percentage of baseline allocation
CentsperkW
12.8 14.6
29.5
The less you use, the more you eliminate theexpensive upper tiers:
Rate Tiers
5 rate tiers1
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978.00
= $ 38.41= $ 13.10= $ 65.79= $ 129.46= $ 3.12
$ 249.88
1
2
3
4
5
The less you use, the more you eliminate theexpensive upper tiers:
Rate Tiers
$5 rate tiers
1
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Used 421 kWh cost ing $ 51.52
Lowering the usage 57% lowers the bill 80%.
From 978 Kwh to 421 Kwh -- from $250 to $50.
421.42
= $ 38.41= $ 13.10= $ 65.79= $ 129.46= $ 3.12
$ 51.52
1
2
3
4
5
PG& E E-1 Residential Rate 6/1/10
29.1
40.0 40.0
25 030.0
35.0
40.0
45.0
kW
h
29.5
33.5 33.5
As of 1/1/12
E-1 / PG&E Standard Rate Schedule (Residential)
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11.913.5
0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
Less than
100%
101% -
130%
131% -
200%
201% -
300%
Over 300%
Perce ntage of baseline allo cation
Centsper
12.8 14.6
PG& E E-1 Residential Rate 6/1/10
29.1
40.0 40.0
30.0
35.0
40.0
45.0
Wh
29.5
33.5 33.5
As of 1/1/12
E-1 / PG&E Standard Rate Schedule (Residential)
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11.913.5
0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
Less than
100%
101% -
130%
131% -
200%
201% -
300%
Over 300%
Perce ntage of baseline allo cation
C
entsperk
12.8 14.6
Solar reverses therate tier effect
Lower ROI Higher ROI
Demand Management Strategies
1. Reduce overall load. Energy efficiency, conservation
2. Inform people so they can cooperatevoluntarily. Publicity, Flex Your Power alerts
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Publicity, Flex Your Power alerts
3. Create the ability to remotely turn offcertain appliances. Smart AC, smart meters, etc.
4. Charge more for peak usage. Time-of-Use rates, Peak-Time pric ing
and others.
Time of Use Rates
17,000
19,000
21,000
PG&E Peak LoadJuly 25 @ 1700 hours
20,883 MWs
PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
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5,000
7,000
9,000
11,000
13,000
15,000
Jan Fe b Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Time of Use Rates
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Time of Use Rates
Sunday Monday Tuesday ednesda Thursday Friday Saturday
Midnight - 6am Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak
6am - 10am Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak
10am - 1pm Off-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Off-Peak
Residential "E6" Time-of-Use Pricing Periods
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1pm - 7pm Off-Peak Peak Peak Peak Peak Peak Off-Peak
7pm - 9pm Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak
9pm - Midnight Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak
Peak rates in Summer Afternoons 29/kWh + tier surcharges
Part-Peak rates: 14/kWh + tiers
Off-Peak rates (Nights & Weekends) 8.5-10/kWh + tiers
20
25
30
35
perK
wh
Time of Use Rates
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0
5
10
15
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Hours of the Day
Cents
E-6 summer rates (May October)
2000
2500
3000
3500
oduc
ed
Time of Use Rates
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0
500
1000
1500
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
Hours of t he Day
KwhPro
Typical summer production
20
25
30
35
sperK
wh
Time of Use Rates
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0
5
10
15
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Hours of the Day
Cents
Summer pattern (May October)
1
20
25
30
35
sperK
wh
Time of Use Rates
Buy Buy
Sell
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0
5
10
15
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Hours of the Day
Cents
Buying low and sell ing high adds value.
Med
High
On-peakusage
Should I go on a TOU rate with my PV system?
No
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25% 75%50% 100%0
Low
Percentage of yearly usage covered by solar
Yes
With PV: Change in Utility Billing
Two bil ls, gas & electric
Yearly bi ll ing cycle for electricity
Fixed minimum electric charge reflected on
gas (blue) bill
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Change in Utility Billing
Minimum
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electrichookupcharge
Change in Utility Billing
Minimumelectriccharge
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Current monthlycharge
Cumulativecharge
Change in Utility Billing
PV electric bill : meter readings
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Change in Utility Billing
PV electric bill : usage history
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Change in Utility Billing
Yearly trueup example
Yearly usage total $170.20
Already paid the fixed amount of $6.71 perth f 12 th t t l f $80 52
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200
month for 12 months, total of $80.52
Amount owed is 170.20 80.52 = $89.68
Relatively Low Maintenance
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Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Soiling Factors
Three basic categories for rainy / dry season areas
Washed as often as necessary ~ 1.0
Washed once in July ~ 0.96
Never washed ~ 0.93
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Factors affecting number
Rainy / dry seasons Dirt roads
Near agricultural activity
Close to road surface of busy street
In airport flight path
Cleaning Costs
Residential systems
Around $5 per panel
High because of fixed costs (travel, insurance, etc.)
Commercial systems
In PPA, contracted out to separate company
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Cleaning and inspections typically done together
Frequency usually twice per year
Full service cost about 2/watt per year
One time cleaning-only cost around 1/2/watt or $1/panel
Must be careful with power washers, psi not too high
500 kW system = 2,500 panels:Yearly cleaning & maintenance = $10,000.
Environmental Footprint Best overall estimates from 1 to 2.5 years
Depends on si te and power production--inCalifornia is about 1.1 years.
Shrinking as costs drop and production gets
greener
Pays back 10 to 30 times or more its
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environmental cost
Most PV manufacturingplants will have their ownPV system on the roof.
Cou rtesy of DOE/NREL
Source: January 2008 Environmental Science & Technology
http://sustenergy.blogactiv.eu/2008/05/29/emissions-from-photovoltaic-manufacturing/
CPUC (California Public UtilitiesCommission)
Existing ResidentialExisting Commercial
Commercial New Construction
Residential New Construction
CSI
(C lif i S l I i i i )
NSHP
(N S l H P t hi )
California Solar Initiative (CSI)
CEC(California Energy Commission)
SB 1
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(California Solar Init iative) (New Solar Homes Partnership)
PG&E SCE CCSE(SDREO)
Program Administrators
SDG&EPG&E SCE
Program Administrators
The CSI makes PV
Economical:Gives financial incentives to lower the cost
SecureScreens and tests equipment
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Requires long warranties
Helps screen and check installersStandardizes production estimates
EasyHelps installers handle everything
CSI Financial Incentivestwo types
EPBB (Expected Performance-Based Buydown) One-time, up-front payment (rebate) Based on expected production
Only for smaller systems (< 50 kW)
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PBI (Performance-based Incentive) Ongoing monthly payment for 5 years Based on actual production
Possible for all systems, but required forlarge ones (> 50 kW)
CSI Financial Incentivesnumbers
EPBB PBI
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Overall outline:
Incentives step down according to amount of PVinstalled (MW)
Data as of 2/7/12
CSI Financial Incentivesnumbers
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MW remaining MW under rev iew = best estimate of how much left.For PG&E residential: 26.48 1.08 = 25.4 MW.
Trigger Tracker. Helps determine when incentives drop.
http://www.csi-trigger.com/
Base system size in AC kilowatts (CEC) may be
adjusted downwards depending on designand geography.
Determined by EPBB calculator: www.csi-epbb.com
according to the following inputs:1. Zip code
CSI Rebate Adjustments
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2. Orientation (azimuth)
3. Tilt (from horizontal)4. Shading (detailed shading table)
Design rewards summer energy, not annual
No design penalty for any orientation from South to West
Geography factor capped at 1.0 relative to Orange, CA
Case study
Electric bil l: $100/month = $1200/year
After 10 years you will have paid $12,000
if rates do not rise
Sample Current Situation
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211Pacific Energy CenterSan Francisco
if rates do not rise.
Is this a reasonable assumption?
Case study
Electric bill: $100/month = $1200/year
With inflation, after 10 years you l ikely will have paid$14,000 to $17,000
With nothing to show for it except higher electric bi lls($150+/mo)
Sample Current Situation
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212Pacific Energy CenterSan Francisco
($150+/mo).
No equity
Nothing paid off
So the real question is
Can solar be less expensive than this?
PV Statistics & Performance forthe Average Family of Four
(monthly electrical bill $100-$200)
4.0 KwAC System
COST (before rebate = $6,500 / kW) $26,000REBATE (est. $230 / kW) $920
TAX CREDIT $7524NET COST $17,556Maintenance (25 40 yrs.) $5,000
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( y ) ,Total lifecy cle cost $22,556
kWh Production ~ 6,500 kWh / year
Space requirements ~ 350 - 500 s.f.
Avg. cost of power now ($150/mo) $.18/Kwh
25-yr. cost of power (est.) $.14/Kwh40-yr. cost of power (est.) $.09/Kwh
Three Ways to Buy
1. Full purchase (cash or borrowing)
Owner of system
Borrow money or pay cash
Full payment up front
Design and install
Sell
You PV Vendor
$$$
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Maintain and monitorsystem
Economics:
Cash / total savings
Loan pmt. / monthly savings
Honor warranties
(equipment & labor)
Three Ways to Buy
2. Solar Lease
Low or no money down
Fixed lease payment
Owner of systemDesign and install
Lease
You PV Vendor
$
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Fixed lease payment
Possible buyout in thefuture
Economics:
Lease pmt. / monthly
savings
Maintain and monitor
systemHonor warranties(equipment & labor)
Remove system at end if
needed
$
Three Ways to Buy
3. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Low or no money down
Monthly power payment
Owner of system
Design and install
Sell power
You PV Vendor
$
$
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Monthly power payment
Possible buyout in thefuture
Economics:
Monthly pmt. / monthly
savings
p
Maintain and monitor
systemHonor warranties(equipment & labor)
Remove system at end if
needed
$
Solar lease
Lease
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Solar lease
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PV System Costs by Component
Retai l costs of system under 30 kW
PV Panels ~ $2 per Watt
Inverter ~ $.50 per WattBalance of System ~ $1 per Watt
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Installation / Labor ~ $3 per Watt
Total cost ~ $6.50 per watt instal led
Whats the
THE BIG QUESTION:
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What s thepayback?
Return on Investment
Payback: Time period when savings = investment cost
IRR (internal rate of return): Percentage of annual returnwhich looks at full li fe cycle
Different ways to measure
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NPV (net present value): Cash flow projection which takes
in financing costs
Monthly Cash Flow: Change in your monthly payment
Monthly Cash Flow:
Financed by a home-secured loan
Loan interest is tax-deductible
Assuming historical rate escalation continues
Monthly cash flow can be immediately positive formany people with higher electric bi lls.
Return on Investment
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They can start making money from day one and
continue for over 30 years!
Lower bil l amounts wil l typically start out slightlynegative and improve over time.
When the price per kWh of electric ity from a
renewable source is equal to the current averagegrid price.
PV example:
System net cost: $20,000, lifetime maintenance $4,000.
Grid Parity
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Expected to generate average of 5,000 kWh per year for 30years, total of 150,000 kWh.
$24,000 / 150,000 = $ .16 per kWh
Current utility average price = $ .16 per kWh
= Grid Parity
Appraisal Value Will likely go up Less utility cost means more money available for mortgage
payment
Data so far is supportive, new report just released
Much more to come as solar houses turn over
S l Ri ht A t
Increase in Home Value
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Solar Rights Act
California law that supports solar Keeps HOAs and other CC&Rs from prohibit ing solar systems
Forbids increased property taxes on owners system
Restriction ends when home is sold, and assessment can go up
to reflect system
WefindcompellingevidencethatsolarPVsystemsin
Californiahaveboostedhomesalesprices.
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http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/emp/reports/lbnl4476e.pdf
Called RECs or green tags
The green attribute of the power
Connected to carbon offset accounting
Central feature of a system to move moneyfrom polluters to non-polluters.
Renewable Energy Credits
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from polluters to non polluters.
Polluters must buy RECsaccording to penalty.
Cap and Trade
Penalt
Renewable Energy Certi ficates Good guysBad guys
Trade
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Polluters
Pollution preventers
Pollution removers
Cap
Permitted
Penalty
Source: W ikipedia free license
Making activity carbon neutral
Funding projects that remove as muchcarbon as you generate
Additional social & business image value
Carbon Offsets
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Strategies for Cost Reduction
Strategies for Cost Reduction
Instal lation efficiencies/roofing
Multiple benefi ts from one strategy Design integration
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Package with energy efficiency The PV Bulk-Buy?
Installation Efficiencies
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Courtesy of DOE/NREL
PV Roof Tiles BIPV Building Integrated Photovoltaics
Installation Efficiencies
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Tiles interlock quicklywith NO roof penetrations
Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Installation Efficiencies
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PV Integrated Roofing Membrane
Courtesy: Solar Integrated
Installation Efficiencies
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PV Skyl ights
Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Multiple Benefits
Mitigate unwantedsolar heat gain
Control glare
Displace existingmaterials cost
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Source: Darren Bouton
materials cost
Produce electricity
Package with Energy Efficiency
Conservation gives best payback
Many EE rebates avai lable
Wil l be required for rebate
Can handle enti re package for cl ient
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p g
Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
PV Bulk Buy
Community targets for total Kw
Can lead to 10% or more discounts
Many companies offering i t
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Source: Pete Shoemaker
Sales and InstallationProcess
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Case Studies
Residential Case Study
John Doe in Gilroy, CA $200/month PG&E electric bill
Usage projected to stay the same
Phone screening information:
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Usage projected to stay the same
Composition shingle roof
Thinks there are no shade issues
Overhead photos not clear
Roof Layout
NW E
S
Front ofhouse
Back ofhouse
Site Visit Data:
4:12 pitch
25
65
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NW E
S
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Source: Pete Shoemaker
Site Visit First Pass
No shading issues
Roof in good shape
About 200 sf. south-facing
Lots of room west-facing
Good site for inverter(s)
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Good site for inverter(s)
Electrical service and panel OK
Substantial electric bill
What Size System?
Usage pattern normal
Monthly average is good
starting point
Propose maximum sizesystem and then work to
Usage History
Jul-06 946
Aug-06 1127
Sep-06 1349
Oct-06 970
Nov-06 1093
Dec-06 1077
Jan-07 1349
Feb-07 867
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customers budget
Check for competitivebids, ask to see them
Mar-07 886
Apr-07 768
May-07 815
Jun-07 836
Total 12083
Avg. 1007
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Acme Solar final bid
24 190-w att modules
Tw o 2000-w att inv erters
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Commercial Case Study
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Car dealership in Gilroy
Check usable space
Estimate maximum size of system
Determine average usage from bill
Give ballpark financial numbers
Commercial Case Study
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140
80
90
90
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30 x 40
Total space is about 16,000 square feet, but how muchis usable? Need site visi t to determine.
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Visual estimate about60+% usable space.
about 10,000 sf. total =
100 KW systemmaximum.
Electric bill yearly average: 31,000 Kwh/month
Average blended rate per Kwh = $ .16594
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Average monthly bill = 31,000 x $ .16594 = $5,144
or about $5,000 per month.
From websi te: www.csi-epbb.com
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Page 1
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Page 2
This image cannot currently be displayed.
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STEP 1: Complete an Energy Survey STEP 2: Contact and Choose an Installer
INSTALLER HANDLES THE REST
STEP 3: Complete and Submit Applications for CSI
STEP 4: Obtain Building Permits
PV Sales-Installation Process
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STEP 5: Install System STEP 6: Schedule Final Build ing Inspection
STEP 7: Schedule Final Uti lity Inspection
STEP 8: Claim Incentives
Find Installers
Personal references
CSI website
http://gosolarcalifornia.org
CalSEIA Membershttp://calseia.org/, Find an Expert link
Internet
Ad i i
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Advertising Better Business Bureau
Diamond Certi fied
Comparing Bids: DC vs. AC watts
DC watts are name only DC rating is determined under
Standard Test Conditions (STC), not
real-world DC must be changed to AC beforeuse
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DC system size: 20 Sharp 200-wattmodules
= 20 x 200 = 4000 watts = 4.0 kW DC
Comparing Bids: DC vs. AC watts
Lookup CEC ratings for panels.
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http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/equipment/
Comparing Bids: DC vs. AC watts
Lookup CEC ratings for inverters.
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http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/equipment/
AC watts are real power AC rating is determined under Practical
Test Conditions (PTC), real-world
AC takes efficiency losses into account
AC system size: 20 Sharp 200-watt modules
PTC rating 176 atts in erter efficienc 96%
Comparing Bids: DC vs. AC watts
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PTC rating 176 watts, inverter efficiency 96%= 20 x 176 = 3520 watts x .96 = 3379 watts
= 3.38 kW AC
System size: 20 Sharp 200-watt modules1 SMA SB 4000US inverter
4.0 kW DC 3.38 kW AC (CEC rating)
DC is about 18% more, but misleading.
AC is the important number and if installer
Comparing Bids: DC vs. AC watts
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AC is the important number, and if installeronly gives DC numbers ask for CEC AC size.
1. Full price, before incentives. This includes all adders (such as extra roof charges), and extras(such as monitoring), an estimate for permit fees(around $300), and taxes.
2. The system size in similar units: CEC AC watts is thepreferred measurement.
3 The per watt price This is determined by dividing thef ll i b th t i Thi i th it i
Comparing Bids: Per-watt price
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3. The per-watt price. This is determined by dividing thefull price by the system size. This is the unit pricethat allows you to compare apples to apples . It wi lltypically be around $6.50/watt.
Base price: $20,000Roof adder: $2,000Permit fee: $500Total: $22,500
System Size:4.0 Kw DC3.38 Kw AC (CEC)(3,380 watts)
Per-watt price:
$22 500 / 3 380 = $6 65/watt
Comparing Bids: Per-watt price
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$22,500 / 3,380 = $6.65/watt
Three options:
1. 20 Sharp 185 panels, 3.19 Kw AC,
$6.05/watt2. 20 Evergreen 180 panels, 3.12 Kw AC,$6.45/watt
3 20 Kyocera 190 panels 3 28 Kw AC$6 90/ tt
Comparing Bids: Group discount
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3. 20 Kyocera 190 panels, 3.28 Kw AC,$6.90/wattIf group target of 100 kW is met, price
will drop to $6.00/watt
Class Quiz
Review of Learning Objectives
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Jobs Overview
andFuture Trends
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Solar Incentive Data: National and State
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Cour tesy DOEhttp://www.dsireusa.org/
Solar Installation Data: National and State
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http://openpv.nrel.gov/visualization/index.php Cour tesy NREL
Solar Installation Data: State
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http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/ Cour tesy CSI
Detailed statistics
Solar Installation Data: State
Complete data file
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http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/
Cour tesy CSI
# Installers by # of Systems 1/07 to 4/10 CSI Data
480502
191200
300
400
500
600
Information Available from Analysis of Full Data File
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39 32 26
0
100
1 system 2-10 systems 11-50 systems 51-99 systems 100-200 systems 200+ systems
Compiled by Verve Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov
Courtesy Verve Solar Consult ing
Top 30 Residential Installers by total # installs
Acro Energy Technologies, Inc.Solar Technologies
SolarCraft Services, Inc.Premier Power Renewable Energy, Inc.
Independent Energy Systems, Inc. dba Real Goods SolarSun Light and Power
Advanced Solar Electric, Inc
HelioPower, Inc.Marin Solar Inc. DBA Real Goods Solar
NextEnergy Corp.Mohr Power Solar, Inc.
Stout & Burg Electric, Inc.SPG Solar, Inc.
Self-Install (Same as Host Customer)
Sungate Energy Solutions, Inc.REgrid Power, Inc. DBA Real Goods Solar
Borrego Solar Systems, Inc.Akeena Solar, Inc.
REC Solar, Inc.SolarCity
CSI Residential Projects # installed systems 1/07 to 4/10
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0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000
Occidental PowerPotero Corp.
SunWize Technologies
The Solar CompanySungevity, Inc.
Luminalt Energy CorporationHorizon Energy Systems
Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort Inc.Sullivan Solar Power
Cobalt Power Systems, Inc.
Compiled by Verve Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov
Courtesy Verve Solar Consult ing
1 539
1,6491,667
1,761
1,797
1,920
1,963
2,089
2,1052,181
2,852
2,862
2,889
4,191
4,419
4,913
5,265
6,347
8,199
10,110
11,413
17,211
34,013
Borrego Solar Systems Inc
SunPower CorporationAkeena Solar, Inc.
Permacity Construction
Premier Power Renewable Energy, Inc.
EI Solutions
SPG Solar, Inc. - Novato
Unlimited Energy, Inc.
Solar Integrated Technologies, Inc.Chico Electric
Bleyco Inc
Stellar Energy GP, Inc.
Erickson Construction Co.
Permacity Construction Corp.
Pacific Power Management, LLC
SolarCity
Conergy Projects, Inc.
BP Solar International, Inc.
SPG Solar, Inc.
REC Solar, Inc.
Team-Solar, Inc.
Sun Edison LLC
SunPower Corporation, Systems
Top 30 Lg Commercial CSI Installers
kWp installedthrough CSI
1/07 to4/7/2010
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1,0301,109
1,120
1,176
1,197
1,364
1,459
1,539
0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000
Sunview Vineyards of California, Inc.INTERIOR ELECTRIC INCORPORATED
BAP Power Corporation
Solar Power, Inc.
Granite Bay Energy (Formerly GBEG dba Granite Bay Solar)
EI Solutions, Inc.
Sunlight Electric LLC
Borrego Solar Systems, Inc.
Compiled by Verve Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov
Courtesy Verve Solar Consult ing
Solar job trends
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Courtesy Verve Solar Consult ing
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http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1105585926298-73/SWIC_EmployerSurvey_SummaryReport_1.23.2011.pdf
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http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1105585926298-74/2011Q4_SWIC_JobsReport_Summary_1+23+2012.pdf
Lead Generator (canvasser, outside sales) Sales 1 (inside sales, lead qualifier) Sales 2 (field rep, closer) Project Developer (creating and selling large, longer-term projects) Designer 1 (pre-sale, estimation) Designer 2 (typical designer category, creates plans and drawings) Designer 3 (large-scale, commercial) Project Manager (post-sale, operations) Application Processor (paperwork, rebates, etc.) Permit Processor (w/ building officials, inspections) PV Installer 1 (laborer, apprentice, entry level) PV Installer 2 (typical crew member) Installer Crew Lead Monitor ing / Maintenance
PV Job Categories
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Monitor ing / Maintenance Technician / Troubleshooter Safety Manager Financial Operations (work w ith banks, etc.) HR / Hiring Marketing
Smart Grid
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Adding information technology to the electric grid infrast ructure
http://www.smartgridnews.com/artman/publish/Technologies_Communications_Resources/CSR-2009-Env ironment-The-Smart -Grid-Vis ion-1563.html
Smart Grid
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Adding information technology to theelectric grid infrastructure
Source: NIST
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Cou rtesy PG&E
Smart Meter
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Gas Meter with SmartMeter Module
Gas Meter Module
Attaches to existing gas meters
Measures 5.5 x 6.5 inches
Transmits wireless signals to theData Collector Unit
20 year life span
A.k.a. Meter Transmission Unit(MTU)
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9/7/2012 2822010 Paci fic Gas and Electric Company. All righ ts reserved
Electric Network Components
Utility IQ
Relays Access
Points
Meters Head
End
3G Cellular
Network
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9/7/2012 2832009 Paci fic Gas and Electric Company. All righ ts reserved
From meter to the home
Near-time electric usageinformation
Timely price signals
Appliance / energymanagement control signals
From meter to utility
Customer electric use
Customer energy generation
(e.g. solar) Appliance response to energy
t t l i l
Internet
A Platform for InnovationCustomer Energy Management
PG&E Premi se
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management control signals
CEM network communication
SmartMeter communication
Paper
Wealth
Dont forget the bottom line
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Pete ShoemakerPacif ic Energy Center
851 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 973-8850
Contact Information
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(415) 973 8850