How It Works

The solar PV panels convert the sun’s energy into direct current (DC) voltage. This DC voltage is sent to an inverter which turns the DC voltage into the more commonly used alternating current (AC) voltage. This AC voltage is then fed into the building’s electrical panel and is used to directly offset electrical usage.

System Information

The Solar PV system consists of the solar panels and inverters.

Solar Panels

• Manufacturer: Sharp
• Model: NU-U235F1
• Number of Panels: 27 @ 250W per panel
• Total Generation Capacity: 6.35 kW max.
• Estimated Production: 6,899 kWh/yr

Inverters

• Manufacturer: Solectria
• Model: PVI 3000
• Number of Inverters: 2
• UL1741 and IEEE1547 approved

Installation/Operation

Materials:

• (225) feet of electrical wiring
• (205) concrete blocks
• (27) Solar Panels
• (2) DC-to-AC Inverters
• Aluminum Racking for (27) Panels

On February 19, 2010 the construction of the solar PV system began. The installation took about a month and that includes all electrical connections and installation of 27 panels as well as the two inverters.

Unlike the solar thermal panels, the solar PV panels needed no special mounting provisions when they were installed on the roof. Since the roof of the IMPA building is flat, the panels were secured to an aluminum racking system that was held in place by cement blocks. No drilling or cutting into the roof was required. If this had been a residential installation, the panels would be mounted directly fastened to the roof.

The solar PV system became operational on March 11, 2010. The system is self contained and requires no regular maintenance. The lifetime of this system is expected to be 30 years.

Generation

For real-time and lifetime generation data for this system, please select the link below.

• Real-time and lifetime generation data