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Solar Info Session
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Who we are
We are a network of people taking control of our
energy by installing solar and generating our own electricity.
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How we got started
Started in 2007• It wasn’t easy!
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It was
harder
than
we thought!
How we got started
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Helping communities go solar
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Presentation in three parts:
1. Solar technology2. How solar co-ops work3. Solar economics
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Part 1: Solar technology
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Part 1: Solar technologyHow does a solar panel work?• Solar photovoltaic (PV)• Converts solar energy to electricity
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Cell
Panel / Module Solar Array
Part 1: Solar technology
System components• Panels
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Racking system
Inverter
Part 1: Solar technology
System components• Inverter(s)• Racking system
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Part 1: Solar technology
Terminology• Kilowatts (kW)• Kilowatt-hours (kWh)
• System measured in kW• Electricity production in kWh• Most homeowners install between 2 kW – 12 kW
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INSTALLATIONTAKEN FROM WWW.HUFFINGTONPOST.COM
Part 1: Solar technologyHow does solar connect to my roof?
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Part 1: Solar technology
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Solar Co-op Information Session
Part 1: Solar technologyHow does it connect to my electrical panel?
• Simple connection• Most home electric
systems don’t need upgrades before solar
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Roof faces southerly direction
No shading
Enough space to mount panels
Part 1: Solar technologyWhat makes a good site for solar?
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VIA WATTPATROL.COM
Part 1: Solar technologyHow a solar PV system works (grid-tied)
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Part 1: Solar technologyWhat is Net Metering?
• Allows flow of electricity to AND from customer• When generating is more than using, extra
electricity flows back through meter• You get a credited on your power bill for that production
• Monthly electric bill:[Amount electricity used] – [Amount electricity produced]
• Utilities required by law to let you net meter
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Part 1: Solar technologyWhat happens when the power goes out?
• When grid is down, solar shuts off
• Safety mechanism• Need batteries if want
power during outages
source: www.pixgood.com
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Part 1: Solar technologyFrequently asked questions
• Warranties?• Homeowner’s insurance?• Maintenance?• How long do systems last? • Will HOA allow solar on my home?• What if I’m in a historic district?
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Part 2: How solar co-ops work
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Part 2: Co-op processBenefits of co-ops
• Save on cost of system (10-20%)
• Get support of the group through the process
• Connect with fellow solar enthusiasts
• Become part of a growing solar movement
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Solar Co-op Information Session
Part 2: Co-op process
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Part 2: Co-op processWho picks the installer? – Co-op members
When someone joins a co-op, they select specific installer criteria from some or all of the following:
• Offer the best price• Use higher quality equipment• Have more experience• Offer stronger warranties• Are a local company• Other - Please describe
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Part 3: Solar economics
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Part 3: Solar economicsA few considerations
• Solar priced by the Watt (not by panel)• Solar is long-term• No moving parts & 20-25 year lifespan• Average residential electricity rate• Rising energy prices
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Part 3: Solar economicsSolar in increasingly affordable
• Costs have come down 90% since the 1970s
• Solar is no longer a specialty, expensive or boutique project for a homeowner
• But, can still be a daunting to tackle
1970’s 2013
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Part 3: Solar economics
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Part 3: Solar economicsFinancing
Solar Installers offer financing
Banks offer solar loans• First Green Bank www.firstgreenbank.com • Admirals Bank www.admiralsbank.com
PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy)PACE is available in 16 counties and many cities www.floridapace.gov
SELF (Solar and Energy Loan Fund) www.solarenergyloanfund.org
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Helpful Websites and Resources
•www.electricitylocal.com•eia.gov_Florida•pvwatts.nrel.gov•www.fsec.ucf.edu
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What’s next?
What’s next?• www.flsun.org • Join the Broward
Solar Co-op• Join the listserv• Tell your friends
and neighbors
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Sign-up for the Co-opTake the First Step and Go Solar!
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Thank You!
Angela DeMonbreunFL Sun Program Director