The continual improvements in solar technology are constantly in the news, typically featuring information about the latest increase in solar panel efficiency, bigger batteries or automatic backfeed control mechanisms. Unfortunately, these technology advances to not address the most basic needs of millions of would-be solar customers-people who rent their homes.  Most renters have no choice but to use utility power. What is the best way for home renters to obtain solar power? What is most needed are products and methods that will enable renters to benefit from the solar revolution.

 

Breakthroughs in Low-Cost Solar

Modern solar systems have long been tailored for permanent installation by property owners, while the needs of home renters have not been adequately addressed.

Solar-to-go products (STG) were created to provide solar solutions that enable renters to obtain relief from most of their electricity costs. To empower renters to take advantage of solar systems, product breakthroughs are needed in three key area:

1) Mounting systems

2) Power inverter configurations

3) Semi-permanent interconnect wiring

Since most temporary solar systems will be implemented by users, this equipment must be DIY friendly.

With increased versatility and easy deployment, portable solar generators will increasingly become accessible to renters for powering homes during unexpected power outages or in remote locations where traditional power sources are scarce or unavailable. Their compact size and portability make them ideal for supplementing routine energy needs and supplying emergency power.

Renters are increasing their focus on sustainability and desire to gain control of their electrical costs. Temporary power solutions for solar generators will become indispensable tools for those seeking low-cost reliable electricity.

· A Relocatable Solar Mounting System

One key issue when installing solar panels(modules), is the mounting system. How will the solar panels be held in place? Common options are roof mount or ground mount. Neither of these methods can be used for most renters as they require permanent construction. Property owners are redescent to allow renters to modify their property. This is particularly true because renters would expect to remove their solar systems when they move out, potentially leaving damages from the equipment removal.

STG ground rack products include several mounting structures that sit on flat ground, held in place by ballast blocks, 18-inch nails made of rebar, or simple ground screws.

These rugged steel structures offer much greater strength compared to lightweight aluminum alternatives.  Structures can be assembled in-place using simple hand power tools.  STG rack structures holding 1-4 solar panels can be moved by two persons for repositioning or transport to a new site.

Using Solar-to-Go racks, a ground mounted solar generating system can be created with no modification to the home structure. Either grid tied or off-grid solar systems are supported.

8ft-wide racks are available in single slope or dual slope configurations to provide optimal solar performance. Single slope racks perform best when pointed true south, and sun will be harvested all during the day.

Low Profile racks with two slopes. These low-profile support structures work well when collecting solar power from the east and west directions as the sun travels throughout the day. The peak solar harvest is a bit lower, but the number of hours for solar production is greater.  The added benefit to the low-profile design is the leg spacing can be adjusted to accommodate two or four solar panels (two facing east and two facing west).

Recent advancements in technology have resulted in solar generators that are not only more efficient but also lighter, more DIY friendly than ever before.

Evan a single solar panel can produce a notable amount of electricity. A single module support is a flexible way to get immediate results of a solar module, without waitingfor a construction effort.

Assembly of these rack systems can easily be completed by one person, using a simple power screwdriver impact gun. Simply match up the numbered pieces, and screw in the self-tapping screws.

Figure  shows 2 or 4 panel rack support legs and footers. Footers can be square tubes for ground-resting supports, or angle feet for resting on the edges of shipping containers.  The footers shown in Figure 4 are for shipping containers

   Power Inverter Configuration

Since most solar users initially desire to simply reduce their electric bills, a simple grid-interactive inverter is most commonly used.  These inverters change DC solar power into AC power like your utility provides. Sunlight goes in, power comes out!

Solar panel wires plug into the inverter, and AC power output is available at a twist-lock cord. Extension cords are used to deliver power to the home connection.

The most common inverters can receive inputs from two or four solar panels.  Multiple  inverters can be combined to create larger systems.

• Wiring the solar power to your home

The concept of Solar-To-Go is that solar power is used to instantaneously cancel electrical use by any home load.  The solar energy feeds into your electrical wiring, and will immediately be used instead of utility power.

The output power from a Home Grid inverter come out through a 3-pin 30A connector.  A sunlight resistant cord normally delivers the power to whichever type of connector the user selects.

 A 240v solar inverter can connect directly to the home wiring through a receptacle like a clothes dryer or RV outlet, the solar power continually feeds the entire home wiring.  The total utility bill will be reduced by the amount of the solar energy that is produced.

A 120V inverter can plug directly into a standard 20A electrical outlet. The maximum sustained solar energy is 2000W. Care must be taken to ensure the 20A outlet is GFCI protected.

In many locations homes cannot feed energy back to the utility grid    without permission. Users may want to limit the size of the solar power system so it is only large enough to reduce their electric bill, but not so large as to backfeed energy to the utility.

The STG inverter can reduce energy used by a single appliance, like an air conditioner. The solar inverter output can be connected directly to the AC wiring of the outdoor compressor. Whenever the compressor receives voltage from the home, the solar immediately generates power to feed some of the power needed by the AC compressor. It operates automatically, without user intervention, typically supplying at least 50% of the energy used by the AC unit.  When the AC voltage to the compressor is turned off, the solar inverter goes to sleep.  This type of implementation will not backfeed to the utility grid.

·      Solar Modules Power Rating

Most STG supports can accept a wide range of solar panel dimensions. STG supports work with medium and large sized solar panels. Normally physical size increases with power rating.  Larger panel size may require wider leg spacing for low-profile supports. Standard support rails are long enough to receive modules up to 45-inches wide. It is generally better to use the STG-4 single slope support structure for extremely long modules. The increased length merely extends out the left and right sides.

The 2-input inverter with a 1000W output power rating can accept up to 1300W of solar panel power. The 4-input inverter with a rating 2000W output power rating can accept up to 2600W of solar panel power.  The electrical wiring of standard solar panels with MC-4 connectors can be used without modification.

Solar inverters can operate with only a single panel, and energy output can be increased later by adding additional panels.

·      Innovations in Off-Grid and Job Site Solar Generators

Off-grid inverters can be used in lieu of grid interactive inverters. Since many off-grid inverters and batteries require protection from weather they are placed indoors. If needed, MC4 extension cables are available to connect STG solar panels to the indoor equipment.

Job site solar power systems can be powered by STG solar panels to create a jobsite power system. Most all-in-one solar generator units can accept solar panel power directly, provided the solar panel voltage is not excessively high. If high voltage is a concern, STG solar panels can be wired in parallel instead of series, thereby keeping the voltage to that of a single panel. STG adapters are available.

·      Solar Powered Generators for Emergencies

The most common misunderstanding is that solar system automatically produce power when the utility power fails. That is not necessarily true!   Simple grid interactive inverters shut down when utility power is off.

In small systems, only off-grid battery inverters continue to produce power when the utility power fails. If there is no battery, there will be no power.

Large All-In-One inverters that sustain power when the grid fails require special home wiring modifications, and are less likely to be used by DIY renters.  There is no specific problem using STG supports with such inverters.

Looking Forward

As the demand for clean, renewable energy grows, innovators are making significant strides in advancing portable solar technology. Renters will become an increasing market for solar equipment suppliers.  Adaptation of traditional solar equipment to the needs of DIY users will become vital.

With the ongoing focus on sustainability and the increasing demand for inexpensive power solutions, portable solar generators are poised to continue their role as indispensable tools for those seeking reliable low-cost electricity.

Whether you choose to live off-grid or find yourself in a situation where it’s necessary, the latest developments in solar technology will meet your needs efficiently and effectively. These advancements not only enhance convenience but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

For more information and updates, contact   Solar-To-Go  at  209-464-6100.

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When your solar system fails, you are in the worst situation. You still have your monthly solar payment, but your utility bill returns larger than ever! When a call to your solar company goes unanswered, you are stranded.

Locating a solar company to perform repairs can be very difficult. In fact, many solar companies refuse to provide warranty repairs for system they installed.

Without documentation of the original system design, the service personnel must be experts. They must be able to understand the equipment that is in place, and have experience trouble shooting a large variety of system configurations.

Solar Servco can help. We provide long-term support for solar service needs and aim to independently offer performance monitoring and system repair to solar owners, regardless of who installed the system.  Our repair teams have the special equipment for testing solar performance. The two-man teams have years of experience, plus they have hotline access to system design engineers that have designed hundreds of systems.

By necessity, repairing solar systems is expensive; a full system troubleshooting and repair service can easily cost $1500-$3500. In order to ease the pain of such lump-sum repair bills, Solar Servco offers a monthly subscription program. This program ensures access to expert resources when a system failure occurs.  Going months with a broken solar system, and paying utility bills is more costly than  repairing your solar system.

Solar Servco Protection Subscription Program

Our solar services cover a range of important tasks to ensure your solar energy system functions optimally:

• Testing Solar System Performance: We thoroughly assess your solar panels’ performance to ensure they generate electricity efficiently.
•  Repairing and Replacing Components: If any components of your solar energy system fail, we swiftly repair or replace them to minimize downtime and maximize energy production.
•  Monitoring and Problem Alerts: We use remote monitoring to closely monitor your solar system’s performance and promptly alert you to any issues that may arise, allowing for quick resolution.
•  Upgrading Solar Energy Systems: We enhance your existing solar energy system by seamlessly integrating additional modules, boosting capacity and efficiency.
•  Battery Backup addition: We offer the option to incorporate battery backup for grid-tied systems, ensuring uninterrupted power supply even during grid outages.
•  Removing and Reinstalling for Reroofing: When it’s time for roof maintenance or replacement, we safely remove your solar arrays, store them, and reinstall them once the roofing work is complete.
•  Adding Protective Equipment: We also provide solutions to safeguard your solar investment against potential threats, such as bird nesting, golf balls, and rodent damage, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency.

Solar Panels Require Periodic Checkup.

Regular solar maintenance is essential for their optimal performance and longevity. When systems develop a problem, the financial impact can be significant. Homeowners and commercial property owners must stay engaged in the upkeep of their solar systems. Regularly checking for common issues, performing necessary maintenance, and knowing when to seek professional help can ensure your solar panels operate efficiently.

Why is Regular Maintenance Crucial?
Regular solar panel maintenance is crucial because it helps prevent minor issues from escalating, which could otherwise lead to decreased energy output or system failure. For example, a routine checkup may discover birds nesting under the panels. If not corrected, the blockage they create can cause roof leaks.

Additionally, it safeguards your investment by maximizing the lifespan of your solar panels. It produces clean, renewable energy more efficiently and contributes to a greener environment.

Understanding Solar Panel Maintenance
Solar panel maintenance is more than just keeping the panels clean. It involves series of checks and procedures to ensure the system works efficiently. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs or system failures.

Here are some key aspects of solar panel maintenance:

1. Check for physical damage or wear and tear. Regularly inspect the panels for any signs of bodily harm, such as cracks or discoloration.

2. Monitor the system’s energy output: Keep an eye on your solar system’s output to ensure it operates at full capacity

3. Inspect the wiring and connections. Check the system’s wiring and connections to ensure they are secure and functioning correctly.

4. Clean the panels to remove dust and debris. Regularly clean them to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that may reduce efficiency

The Difference Between Solar Maintenance and Solar Panel Repair

Solar panel repair and maintenance are separate tasks. Maintenance means checking regularly and preventing problems. Repair is about fixing issues like physical damage or electrical faults. Both are crucial for a healthy solar system.

Identifying Common Solar Panel Issues.

While solar panels are generally low maintenance, they can still encounter issues that affect their performance.

Common problems include physical damage from lawnmowers, shading from trees or buildings, dirt or debris accumulation, simple failure, and wiring problems. It’s essential to know the signs that your solar panels need attention, such as a drop in energy output, visible damage to the panels, loose or exposed wiring, or error messages from the inverter.

Dealing with Weather-Related Damage
When severe weather, such as hail, wind, or heavy snow, hits, it can physically harm your solar panels. Check them for cracks, loose parts, or other damage right after. If you spot any issues, get a solar repair service to check and fix them.

DIY Solar Panel Maintenance Tips
While you might need a solar service professional for some maintenance, there are tasks you can handle yourself to keep your panels in good shape. Clean them regularly to clear dust and debris and monitor the output for sudden drops to maintain performance.

While cleaning, they inspect for visible damage and clear any obstructions around your panels for better maintenance. Remember, safety first, and feel free to ask to call a customer service professional if you need clarification on anything.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Solar Investment
Preventative measures can safeguard your solar investment and prolong your system’s lifespan. It’s crucial to clear the area around your panels of shading and debris buildup. Regularly monitor your system’s output and have a professional inspect it to catch potential issues early.

Professional Solar Repair Services
While DIY maintenance is valid, specific tasks need a professional solar panel repair service. They can swiftly diagnose and repair problems, conduct routine maintenance checks, and suggest system upgrades.

When To Call The Experts?
If you spot a significant decrease in energy output, see visible damage to the panels, or if your annual true-up bill projection suddenly jumps, it’s best to call solar services professionals. Every month of delay causes bigger electric bills. A checkup can make sure everything’s running smoothly.

Choosing a Reliable Solar Repair Service Before Your System Fails
Picking a dependable solar repair service is vital for getting quality work at fair prices. Check reviews, qualifications, and experience of services, ask about their offerings. Try to get on a maintenance program; this is important as it will establish you as a known customer, and you will get priority response. You avoid needing to an emergency search for a new service provider when your system is down.

Maintenance for Different Types of Solar Installations.
Rooftop versus ground-mounted solar installations have different maintenance needs. Being out of sight, rooftop systems might need rooftop checks for bird and rodent infestation. In contrast, ground- mounted systems might need a visual inspection for broken modules. But whether rooftop or ground mounted, regular care is crucial to keep the system running efficiently.

Residential vs. Commercial Solar Panel Maintenance
Residential solar maintenance typically includes easy tasks like cleaning and visual inspections. Commercial solar maintenance can get more complicated; with large arrays, the financial impact of degradation can be more significant. Regardless of the complexity, the aim is to keep the system running efficiently. A well-maintained system can save you money down the line.

The Importance of Professional Checks and Service Contracts
Professional checks are crucial for all solar installations. With thorough record keeping, they can detect a reduction in energy production before systems fail. The savings can easily justify the periodic cost by preventing large electric bills after systems fail. Remember, regular care can prolong your system’s life. It’s a worthwhile investment.

Taking care of your solar panels is about more than fixing problems. Regular solar maintenance can extend their life and boost efficiency. Investing in solar panel care is smart, ensuring you maximize your solar investment. Regular maintenance ensures your solar panels’ long-term efficiency and lifespan, and avoids large surprise utility bills.

When issues arise, Call SunnyCal Solar (209)-646-6100 to schedule a checkup with a solar energy professional to keep your system running smoothly for years!

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SunnyCal now manufactures a 4 channel Battery Combiner that includes emergency shutdown functions.   This device enables remote shutdown of the battery power going to your solar equipment.

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Today, as we celebrate “Earth Day,” let’s look at how we can add renewable energy to our local park and sports fields. Green Energy includes renewable sources such as solar for homes and businesses, but ShadeCharger solar powered picnic tables can now add solar to local parks and libraries.

They offer electric power to charge our cell phones and laptops, adding a clean and sustainable route to reduce our carbon footprint, starting in our neighborhood.

Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to conserve and shield our planet for future generations. Transitioning to green energy, rather than relying on fossil fuels, is a crucial step in combating climate change and fortifying the health and resilience of our environment.

By embracing green energy solutions, we not only reduce our impact on the environment but also foster innovation and economic growth in sustainable industries. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure creates jobs, drives technological advancements, and promotes energy independence.

How can we renew our commitment to green energy with solar energy?

On Earth Day, we can collectively demonstrate our commitment to protecting the planet by taking various actions.  However, one of the simplest options is to switch to solar energy—an affordable and straightforward solution!

Opting for solar energy is an excellent way to embrace sustainability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Solar picnic table installation is a hassle-free source of Green Energy, plus it provides remote power, shade and seating capacity for our leisure events.

To find the best spots for solar tables, consider sunlight exposure, shading, and the preferred seating areas. Solar tables are completely stand-alone, and can be placed on virtually any level surface, whether on grass of paved surfaces. Then, with your wish list in hand, get buy-in from the local authorities.

ShadeCharger tables are unique.  They include solar panels, a lithium battery and power inverter to charge the batteries.  Power is available at the tabletop as AC power outlets and USB plugs.  They are built from an industrial design to be rugged and weatherproof. There are no fabric or laminated surfaces that can be damaged by weather or vandalism; only concrete and metal components are accessible from the seating surfaces.  Finally, the tables can be easily relocated by drive-and-drop using a forklift, enabling seasonable changes to accommodate reconfiguration of multi-use facilities.

Lots of Benefits, with Little Maintenance.

ShadeCharger tables are a long term investment, and will provide decades of service to the communities. In our connected world, where kids prefer spending time on their mobile devices, getting them outside is a healthy change. Solar tables often become the centerpiece of outdoor social activities.

Regular cleaning of table and seating surfaces is all that is needed.  Solar panels are not significantly affected by typical dust and dirt.  Rainfall will provide all the cleaning that is needed. All components of the table are rain and wind resistant, up to 100MPH.

It’s important to protect solar panels from physical damage and extreme weather. Installing special SolarNets, like golf nets or hail blocker nets, can help prevent damage from hailstorms or stray golf and baseballs, especially if the property is near a sports field or golf course.  Nets can be added to block baseballs, golf balls and hail.

Investing in Family Oriented Renewable Energy Upgrades

Solar picnic tables are a unique way to introduce green energy concepts and enhance community services at the same time. Remote power generation offers a low cost way to encourage outdoor activities, all the while providing convenient locations to recharge a dead battery without retreating home.

Library and college settings benefit from outdoor charging as well. Kids can spend time outdoors with their favorite book, soaking up the sunlight and fresh air, instead of sitting in a dark indoor reading room.  As more and more publications are in electronic media, remote power can be key to keeping things powered during use.

Taking this proactive approach helps protect the money invested in solar infrastructure and makes renewable energy production stronger and more sustainable.

So on this Earth Day, let’s commit to using solar energy, reducing our carbon footprint, and safeguarding our planet for future generations. For inquiries about ShadeCharger solar picnic tables, please contact us at 209-464-6100, email us at info@shadecharger.net or visit

#solar picnic table, #shadecharger, #remote phone charging, #remote power, #solar for parks, #solar for libraries, #solar for schools

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Who qualifies for direct pay for the solar ITC?

By Kelsey Misbrener | September 12, 2022

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The Inflation Reduction Act includes a provision allowing tax-exempt entities to receive the solar investment tax credit as a direct payment. In the past, to make nonprofit solar projects financially viable, most organizations had to partner with developers or banks that could take advantage of the tax benefits. Organizations would sign power purchase agreements (PPAs) where they would pay the bank or developer a set amount of money for the solar energy over a length of time, usually 25 years.

Now, tax-exempt organizations like public schools, cities and nonprofits can get those credits by direct pay, and receive a check for 30% of the project cost just like a tax-paying entity would receive the credit when filing taxes. Direct pay paves the way for organizations to own solar projects instead of just buying the power through PPAs.

Although the industry is awaiting official guidance from the Treasury Department regarding the logistics of direct pay and other IRA provisions, the basic qualifying factors are spelled out in the statute. Here are the entities that can access direct pay for the solar ITC.

1. Tax-exempt organizations

Any organization that has filed an application with the federal government for tax-exempt status will qualify for direct pay, according to Amit Kalra, partner at Sheppard Mullin. This could include state colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations and more. It likely does not include homeowners’ associations (HOAs), which typically file a corporate income tax return, Kalra said.

2. State, local and tribal governments

Any governmental entities can receive direct pay for the solar ITC. This includes an already-hot market segment — public schools. A 2020 report by Generation180 found 7,332 schools nationwide use solar power, a number that’s surely grown since then.

3. Rural electric cooperatives

Rural electric co-ops have been leaders in solar adoption because of their member-centric structure. Co-ops now qualify for direct pay, allowing them to own their solar projects and receive credits directly.

4. The TVA

The Tennessee Valley Authority is a federally owned electric utility corporation that can now receive direct pay for solar projects.

How will direct pay change nonprofit solar project financing?

To take advantage of direct pay, tax-exempt entities will likely get a bridge loan from a solar installer or bank, pay the government incentive amount back to the loan company once they receive it, then pay the rest on an installment plan, Kalra said.

“The same parties that are currently willing to underwrite PPAs and take the credit exposure to a tax-exempt [entity], I don’t see why they wouldn’t be willing to underwrite a construction loan to a tax-exempt [entity], or a term loan for that matter, and say, ‘Here’s your $100. You go install this facility and then you pay us back,’” he said.

Fellow Sheppard Mullin partner Benjamin Huffman said financiers previously set up a similar payment structure for cash grants for solar installations.

“It was essentially borrowing against that future government payment, which could be structured for this program just as easily,” Huffman said.

The ability for nonprofits to own solar projects could make energy savings and sustainability an option for more organizations than ever before.

“Having these entities be able to access the systems directly and own the systems if that’s what they choose is a huge step forward for energy sovereignty,” said Andie Wyatt, policy director and legal counsel at GRID Alternatives.

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