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The Sterling Municipal Light Department
2.4 KW Solar Array
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SMLD
Solar Array |
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| A monitor located in
the SMLD’s 50 Main Street lobby displays the clean solar power output
statistics for the 2.4 KW thin-film photovoltaic technology on the rooftop
of our 2 Leominster Road Operations Building. This
test site was a great way to utilize green technology for some of our
electrical needs and to help the individuals in Town make an informed
decision on whether or not to invest in solar power for their home or
business. There is quite a
bit of confusing information regarding state rebates for renewables that
you need to understand is not available for everyone.
By joining these programs there is no guarantee that you will
receive funds. As you review
the SMLD’s solar array, please take a copy of our solar reference sheet
to review available tax incentives or grants that you may be eligible for. |
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Click here
to view those clean
solar power output statistics live. |
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On
September 25, 2008 the Sterling Municipal Light Department completed the
installation of its first photovoltaic system on the roof of its
Operations building. This project was the direct result of our
desire to test and explore renewable technology and share our experiences
with our customers. The system currently has a production capacity
of 2.4kw. It was designed to be modular and allow for easy expansion
in the future. The system utilizes 18 “Thin Film” Photovoltaic
Laminate (PVL) panels from the American company Uni-Solar. This
product is lightweight, durable, and flexible. PVL panels also allow
for a less conspicuous installation than other photovoltaic technologies.
The PVL panels connect to the utility electrical system through a grid-tie
inverter from the local American company Solectria. The major
components of the system are from American manufacturers and were
installed by the local solar contractor SouthPoint LLC, out of Leominster.
The system was designed to supplement the electrical usage of the
Operations Department. This test site has been a great way to
utilize green technology to fulfill some of our electrical needs, while
providing a great ongoing demonstration of the technology to Town
residents. Over the past year and half, residents have been able to
view the system and track its production from our main lobby and on-line
through the link provided on the SMLD Web site. It is our hope that residents interested
in solar electricity will tap the resource of the SMLD’s photovoltaic
experience to better understand how these systems operate. |
http://www.solrenview.com/cgi-bin/CGIhandler.cgi?sort=pvi_IDs&cond=site_ID=12.
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