PV Basics

Basics of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems for Grid-Tied Applications
Pacific Energy Center 851 Howard St. San Francisco, CA 94103 Energy Training Center 1129 Enterprise St. Stockton, CA 95204
Courtesy of DOE/NREL
instructor
Pete Shoemaker
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 electronic formats without written permission of rights holders is prohibited. Disclaimer: The information in this document is believed to accurately describe the technologies described herein and are meant to clarify and illustrate typical situations, which must be appropriately adapted to individual circumstances. These materials were prepared to be used in conjunction with a free, educational program and are not intended to provide legal advice or establish legal standards of reasonable behavior. Neither Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) nor any of its employees and agents: (1) makes any written or oral warranty, expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, those concerning merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose; (2) assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any information, apparatus, product, process, method, or policy contained herein; or (3) represents that its use would not infringe any privately owned rights, including, but not limited to, patents, trademarks, or copyrights.
Some images displayed may not be in the printed booklet because of copyright restrictions.
PG&E Solar Information www.pge.com/solar Pacific Energy Center (San Francisco) www.pge.com/pec Energy Training Center (Stockton)
http://www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/workshopstraining/stockton
Contact Information
Pete Shoemaker
Pacific Energy Center 851 Howard St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 973-8850 pjsy@pge.com
Some images displayed may not be in the printed booklet because of copyright restrictions.
Agenda
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Big picture: Team California Electricity Fundamentals PV Technology Feasibility Finances Sales & Installation Process Jobs Overview and Future Trends
One Minute Summary

Rent a portion of utility grid output Same electricity
CURRENT POSSIBLE
Buy your own power plant
RENT
OWN
Source: Pete Shoemaker
Your home needs electricity
The basic economics are just like the rent vs. buy of purchasing a home.
Pacific Energy Center San Francisco
The Big Picture: Team California
The California Regulated Utility Financial Structure
How the utilities make money, and why they can support energy efficiency and conservation.
Californias regulated utilities cover most of the state.
PG&E
Southern California Edison (SCE)
San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)
Southern California Gas (SoCalGas)
They are essentially monopolies in their respective territories, and so need to be regulated. CPUC
The California Public Utilities Commission is the regulatory body.
30 years ago, the utilities made money like most businesses: on profits from sales.
Profits Energy Sales
The more energy they sold, the more profit they made.
Also 30 years ago, Californias power consumption was rising rapidly, along with the rest of the country.
Per-capita power consumption.
U.S. California
Projecting this into the future made people realize that it was not sustainable, and that something needed to be done.
Very high utility bills Many more new power plants Serious environmental consequences
We needed to lower peoples energy usage, but how? The utility companies had to be involved, but how could you require them to encourage less energy usage, since their profits and business model depended on more sales?
Conclusion: The utility financial structure must change.
DECOUPLING
Separating profits from sales.
Profits Energy Sales Energy Sales
Profits
Since 1978 (gas) and 1982 (electricity) Californias regulated utilities have made profits on INVESTMENTS, not SALES.
These investments are directed by the CPUC and include energy efficiency and conservation.
Example of EE investment and target: 1. The CPUC authorizes PG&E to spend the money to give away 1,000,000 CFLs. 2. The target over 3 years is to reduce electric consumption [xx] mWh. 3. If PG&E makes the target they can set rates so that they earn [x]% for their shareholders. 4. If they exceed the target they can earn more, if they miss the target they earn less or even get penalized.
California utilities have NO incentive to increase energy usage. They DO have mandates and incentives for energy efficiency, conservation, and renewables.
The result?
California, and PG&E, is the leader in energy efficiency and renewable generation.
Solar Electric Trends
PG&E Electrical Power Mix 2009
U.S. Electrical Power Mix June 2011
Bioenergy4% Geothermal 4% Wind 3% Small Hydro 3% Solar <1%
Other 1% Coal 1%
Unspecified
(market purchases)
15% Large Hydro 13%
Natural Gas 35%
Nuclear 20%
Source: PG&E Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly
Courtesy PG&E
Courtesy PG&E
Courtesy PG&E
The Big Picture

California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Loading Order How we fill in new supply in California
1. Energy Efficiency/Demand response 2. Renewables 3. Distributed Generation (such as CHP) 4. Conventional efficient fossil generation
U.S. Electricity Generation 2008
Source: Energy Information Administration / Annual Energy Rev iew 2008
Total energy consumed = 40.67
Delivered for end use = 13.21 (32%)
Over 2/3 of the energy is wasted.
Energy Conservation
Energy Conservation
3 times the value!
Thats leverage!
PG&E as a Partner and Solutions Provider

PG&E Portfolio Solution 1) Reduce consumption as much as possible.
Reduce Energy Use
3) Offset any remaining carbon emissions.
Partnership Education Outreach ClimateSmart
2) Get the greenest power you can.

Renewable Power Supply
Electricity Fundamentals
Watts Volts
Elec. pressure
Water pressure
Amps
Amount of flow
Output
Amount of flow
Output (work done)
Watt (W) = Basic unit of Power
In 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 Watts 2.5 kW = 2,500 Watts 1 MW = 1,000,000 Watts 500 MW = 500,000,000 Watts
Power over time = Work Watts over time = Watt-hours (Wh)
Power x Time
1 sec. Instantaneous power: 20 W
1 hour Power over time: 20 Wh
Watt-hour (Wh) x 1000 = Kilowatt-hour (kWh) In a generator:
How many kWh are produced when a 5 kW PV system operates at full power for 6 hours? 30 kWh
In a load:
How many kWh are used when a 200 W bulb shines for 10 hours? 2000 Wh or 2 kWh
Voltage and Current

Volts x Amps = Watts
Volts
Volts
Watts
Watts Amps
Amps
Area of rectangle = total power (watts) Same area = same power, just in different form.
Voltage and Current

2 amps
20 amps
The larger the current, the larger the wire needed to make it flow efficiently (more pipe). Copper wire is expensive. Using higher voltage allows the same amount of power to be transmitted with lower current, saving money.
Types of Electrical Current

Voltage x Time 1/60 of a second +V 0V -V 60 Hertz in U.S. (60 cycles / second)
DC = Direct current
*PV panels produce DC *Batteries only store DC
AC = Alternating current
*Utility Power
AC power can be stepped up and down in voltage much easier than DC power, therefore most power is AC.
The Electric Grid
Source: PG&E
The Electric Grid

Electricity can be transported at the speed of light, therefore any point can be said to be connected to all others. This network is called the GRID and is nation-wide.
Source: NPR http://w w w .npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=110997398
Source: NREL
The Electric Grid

There are three main components of the grid: Generation: Creating electricity.
Transmission: Moving it in bulk from generators to distribution centers.
Distribution: Bringing it from centers (sub-stations) to individual homes and businesses.

Source: NREL
The Electric Grid

Above 50,000 V (69 kV up to 765 kV) Step up Transmission Sub-station
10,000 V (10 kV) Distribution 120V 240V Generation Step down Step down 12,000 V (12 kV)
480V
Home
Business
Source: NREL
Grid Terms
Supply side Demand side
Generation
Usage (load)
Source: NREL
Grid Terms
Baseload: Minimum amount of power that is
always needed
Seasonal load: Increase in demand in

specific times of the year.
Peak load: Maximum amount needed. Capacity: Total power that the system can
provide.
Grid Terms
Baseload
PG&E 2006 Annual Usage
Grid Terms
Seasonal load
Grid Terms
Peak load
Grid Terms
Highest demand occurs on only a few hours in the year
20000 18000 16000 14000 12000 M Ws 10000 8000
The top 50 Hours represent 0.6% of the total hours in a year
6000 4000
Load Duration Curve

1 501 1001 1501 2001 2501 3001 3501 4001 4501 Tim e 5001 5501 6001 6501 7001 7501 8001 8501
2000 0
Grid Terms
Capacity
Grid Terms
Unused Capacity
Grid Terms
Spread out the demand and you can lower the capacity need.
Grid Terms
Demand Management or Demand-side Management Load-shifting
How do you get people to use less power during peak times and more during off-peak?
Demand Management Strategies

1. Reduce overall load. Energy efficiency, conservation 2. Inform people so they can cooperate voluntarily. Publicity, Flex Your Power alerts 3. Create the ability to remotely turn off certain appliances. Smart AC, smart meters, etc. 4. Charge more for peak usage. Time-of-Use rates, Peak-Time pricing and others.
PV Technology
Different types of Solar

Light energy Photovoltaic (PV) Electricity produced directly from light Heat energy Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) Electricity produced by steam Water Heating Solar Pool Heating Hot water for pools Solar Water Heating (SWH or Solar Thermal) Hot water for domestic use (DHW)
All courtesy of DOE/NREL
Solar Electricity Photovoltaic Effect

photo = light; voltaic = produces voltage Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert light directly into electricity (using semiconductors)
Electron Orbits
Free electron
How a PV Cell Works

Sunlight
Metallic Contact Finger (electron pickup) Antireflective coating Electron flow
N-Layer (Phosphorus) P-N Junction
P-Layer (Boron)
Metallic back contact
Solar Cells & the PV Effect

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 for potential electrical current Wire grid provides path for current
PV Terminology
Cell Module Array
PV System Sizing
200 HP engine: means that 200 horsepower is the MAXIMUM it will produce.
4 kW PV system: means that 4,000 watts (4 kW) is the MAXIMUM it will produce in full sunlight.
Crystalline Silicon (Mono)
Source: DOE National Renew able Energy Laboratory
Crystalline Silicon (Poly)
Source: Darren Bouton
Crystalline Silicon PV Products
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
64
Source: DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Thin-Film PV Products
Thin-Film PV Products
Source: DOE National 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 Pacific Energy Center Requires about 200 sf. per kilowatt San Francisco
66
PV General Rules
Crystalline PV Products Efficiencies (rated) range from 12-22% Space required: 90-150 s.f. per kW Thin-Film PV Products Efficiencies (rated) range from 5-10% Space required: 170-300 s.f. per kW
Crystalline vs. Thin-Film

1.2 kW Crystalline Silicon
Thin-film needs about twice as much space for the same-size system, but the total cost is about the same.
1.2 kW Thin-Film
Efficiency vs. Capacity

1.2 kW (1,200w) 75 square feet 16w per sq.ft.
Capacity = total power Efficiency = power per sq.ft.

1.2 kW (1,200w) 150 square feet 8w per sq.ft.
Heat effect
Air temperature 70 F
Roof surface 100 F
Under modules 120 F

Courtesy: Schott Solar
Crystalline vs. Thin-Film: Heat response

Heat increases electrical resistance, which lowers power output. Output begins dropping at 20C (68F). Percentage of drop is called Temperature Coefficient of Power. It is measured in % per degree Centigrade, i.e. -0.35%/C Thin film degrades less than crystalline.

Sample data from spec sheets
Crystalline -0.478%
Thin film -0.19%
100 95 % of Power 90 85 80 75 70 65 60 20
(68)
25
30
(86)
35
40
45
(113)
50
55
Degrees Centigrade
(Fahrenheit)
(140)
60
65
70
Thin Film
Crystalline
PV Panel Technology Summary

Technology Crystalline Silicon Description Module Efficiency (Commercial) Cell Efficiency (Laboratory) Sample Companies Employing Technologies
T he 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 antireflective coatings. Grown in Cylinders and wire- or laser-sliced into circular wafers as thin as 200 microns. Cells are circular and modules are inherently flat black or charcoal. Cast in blocks or drawn through a die to create a "ribbon" and wiresliced or cut into rectangular wafers. Cells are typically vibrant blue. 14 - 15% 25% BP Solar GE/AstroPower Sanyo Sharp SunWorld BP Solar Evergreen Solar Kyocera Solar Schott Solar Sharp SunWorld
Single Crystal
Multi-Crystalline
12 - 14%
19%
Thin-Film Materials
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 semitransparent. Cell and module production part of same process. Widely used in consumer products and on flexible substrates. Alternative semiconductor material under commercialization. Alternative semiconductor material under commercialization. 5 - 7% 13% BP Solar Kaneka Solar T erraSolar United Solar Ovonic Global Solar Shell Solar BP Solar First Solar
Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)
Copper Indium Diselenide (CIS) Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
8 - 10%
19%
7 - 9%
17%
Growth Forecast?
Source: Renew able Energy World.com
Inverters
Inverter
DC AC
Changes Direct Current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC)
76
Inverters
Range in size from 1 Kw to 500+ Kw Can easily be connected together, even different models Best to locate in cooler area
77
Inverters
Typical system layout
Panel & meter
Inverter Strings of modules
Strings must be of specific length and number, of equal size, and on the same plane.
Power production is very sensitive to shading.

78
System Inverters: Online string sizing tool
Limited configurations, cannot deviate.
79
Inverters
Micro-inverter
One per module Inverts DC to AC right there
System layout
Panel & Combiner box & meter Energy Center communicator Pacific
San Francisco
80
Reliability
Source: NASA
81
Reliability
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
Pacific Energy Center San Francisco 82
It works during the day, but what about at night?
Previously, there was only one solution: Store the excess in batteries during the day, then draw off the batteries at night, or when its cloudy.
But now?
83
Net Metering
The utility grid is a twoway street! Electricity can be sent back to the grid by the customer.
Source Andy Black 2006 All rights reserved.
Source: Andy Black
Eliminates the need for batteries. Reduces cost and maintenance.
X
Source: DOE NREL
Ensures a constant supply of electricity.
Typical System Components

Array Inverter
Meter
Panel
Balance of System (BOS)
Loads
Typical System Components
1. Solar array 2. Inverter 3. House electrical panel
Source: PG&E
86
Monitoring
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 some companies are offering it as standard package.
Courtesy SMA http://www.sma.de/en/products/monitoring-systems/sunny-beam-with-bluetoothr.html
Monitoring
Total system history.
Real-time, per panel.
Courtesy Enphase http://enlighten.enphaseenergy.com/public/systems/LWtm4844
Feasibility
89
Solar Geometry
90
Solar Geometry
Plane of the Ecliptic
91
92
Solar Geometry
ACTUAL: The sun radiates in all directions.
EXPERIENTIAL: On Earth all radiation from the sun is parallel to one another.
93
Horizon in winter
Horizon in summer
94
Source: Wikipedia
This ray strikes parallel to the surface. This ray strikes +45 degree angle to the surface.
This ray strikes perpendicular to the surface.
95
Latitude and Longitude
96
Sun Path
Spring/Fall Noon: 90o Latitude 52.5o in SF Winter Noon: 90o Latitude 23.5 29o in SF
Summer Noon: 90o Latitude +23.5 76o in SF
Winter: Rises 30o south of E
Summer: Rises 30o north of E

Source: PG&E
97
Sun Path Overhead Projection
98
Sun Path Overhead Projection
99
Summer sun
Winter sun
Source: NASA
100
Sun Path Horizon Projection
Edward Mazria. Passive Solar Energy Book, Expanded 101 Professional Edition Rodale Press, 1979, Pg. 311
Sun Chart: San Francisco
Source: University of Oregon, Solar Radiation Monitoring Laboratory http://solardat.uoregon.edu/SunChartProgram.html
Does the site have an appropriate southern exposure?

Use a compass to identify north (and thus south), a first step in assessing solar access at a site.
103
104
105
106
107
108
San Francisco: declination = 14 True south reads as 166

true
In west: True azimuth = Compass azimuth + Declination

109
true
In east: True azimuth = Compass azimuth - Declination 110
Magnetic South vs. True South

Magnetic South = Compass South
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)
True South = Solar South

NOTE: go to National Geophysical Data Center (NGDC) at http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/seg/geomag/jsp/Declination.jsp to determine your sites magnetic declination
111
Describing Location of the Sun

First understand where it is!
Azimuth - horizontal angle of sun east or west of due south Altitude - angle of sun above the horizon Azimuth and altitude describe the location of the sun in the sky at a given time.
90 180 45
270
Illustration from Environmental Control Systems by Fuller Moore, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1993, p. 76.
PV Siting Issues to Consider

1. Sun energy potential (insolation) 2. Space 3. Shading 4. Orientation (N S) 5. Tilt angle 6. Aesthetics
113
Peak Sun Hours Equivalent

1000 w/m
Digital sunlight
114

3500 3000
Kwh Produced
2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23

Hours of the Day
Typical daily pattern

115

3500 3000
Kwh Produced
2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23

Hours of the Day
Equal areas
116
What is the solar resource potential?

Peak Sun-hours Measured in kWh/m2/day
Source: DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Resource Assessment Program http://rredc.nrel.gov/solar/old_data/nsrdb/redbook/atlas/serve.cgi
117
What is the solar resource potential?

Peak Sun-hours Measured in kWh/m2/day
118
Monthly Percentages
Source: morehead.unc.edu
Percentage of yearly insolation per month
Ratio of sunniest six months to least sunny (summer to winter)
119
Weather/Sun Potential Summary

California climate ideal for solar Panels produce in all light Fog has cooling effect, which raises efficiency Microclimates likely less than 15% loss from normal
120
Space Requirements Roof / Ground Area:

Crystalline Silicon
90-150 square feet per kW
Thin-Film
170-250 square feet per kW
For a 4 kW residential system: Crystalline: 360 to 600 sf. Thin film: 650 to 1000 sf.
Note: Consideration should also be given for access to the system (can add up to 20% of needed area)
121
Space Requirements: Overhead Photos
47 x 13 = 611 sf.
122
PV Orientation
For tilted roof:
North
Not good West Good OK Very good
East
South
123
PV Orientation
N W E
S
Overhead maps: true N-S
124
Tilt
Tilt = Angle at which the collectors are mounted relative to 0 (flat horizontal surface)
Ex. 30
tilt angle
125
Tilt
12 ft. 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.

126
Tilt Angle vs. Building Orientation

Orientation / Degrees from South
0 23 45 68 90
(South) (SSE, SSW) (SE, SW) (ESE, WSW) (E, W)
0 Flat 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89
18 30 4:12 7:12 0.97 1.00 0.97 0.99 0.95 0.96 0.92 0.91 0.88 0.84
45 12:12 0.97 0.96 0.93 0.87 0.78
60 21:12 0.89 0.88 0.85 0.79 0.70
90 Vertical 0.58 0.59 0.60 0.57 0.52
Source: A Guide to Photov oltaic (PV) System Design and Installation -- CEC, June 2001
Bottom line: Tilt is a factor, but not a major one.

127
Tracking
For most home systems, the extra expense and maintenance of tracking motors is not worth the efficiency gain. Better to buy a few extra panels. For large commercial systems it may be worth it.
128
Will the PV system be free from shade?
129
72-cell PV module
+
Copyright Solmetric 2010
72-cell PV module with bypass diodes
+
Module I-V curve with shaded cell strings

Cell
Cell string
Shade one cell of one cell string

One bypass diode turns on
V
Shade one cell in each of two cell strings

Two bypass diodes turn on
V
Monocrystalline Shading Effect

Partial Module Shading Effect
3
Unshaded Module
2.5
The Extreme Effects of Shading

1 cell 25% shaded 1 cell 50% shaded 1 cell 75% shaded 1 cell 100% shaded
% of One Cell Shaded

0% 25 % 50 % 75 % l00 % with 3 cells shaded
% Loss of Module Power

0% 25 % 50 % 66 % 75 % 93 %
Amps
1.5
0.5
0 0 5 10 15 20 25
Volts
135
Courtesy: Solar Energy International
Per-Module Devices
Solar Magic National Semiconductor
Module Maximizer Tigo Energy
PV AC Module EXELTECH
PowerBox Solar Edge
Enphase Microinverter Enphase Energy
Direct Grid Microinverter Direct Grid Technologies
SunMizer Xandex
Parallux vBoost eIQ Energy
Per-Module Devices: Two Basic Types

Microinverter Changes DC to AC Needs no other inverter
Enphase Microinverter Enphase Energy
Maximizer Adjusts DC voltage: DC to DC Needs system inverter

Module Maximizer Tigo Energy
Solar Access
PV Requirements
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
138
Shading
Sunset Sunrise
Solar Window
Shade-free from 9 to 3
Good chance for PV

139
Shading
Bad chance for PV

140
Planning for Shade
141
Source: PEC Staff
Planning for Shade

S
2 to 1 ratio recommended
1 ft. 2 ft.
No good
142
Source: PEC Staff
Solar Pathfinder
Used to gain a quick and approximate understanding of solar access and objects on the horizon that shade a given location.
Latitude specific sun path diagram is placed in the pathfinder. The transparent, convex plastic dome reflects objects on the horizon, enabling the user to see the relationship between these objects and the path of the sun. Obstructions can be traced onto sunpath diagram.
143
Courtesy of Andy Black
144
Solmetric SunEyeTM
210 110
145
Courtesy: Solmetric, Corp.
Sunpath View
Visually demonstrates seasonal sun path and shading effects of obstructions Summary tabular data
146
Detailed View
Chart shows proportion of total solar energy available at this site each month
147
Where to Go for Tools
Pacific Energy Center: Tool Lending Library Phone: 415-973-9945 Email: pectools@pge.com
Pacific Energy Center Web Site:

www.pge.com/pec/tll
148
How will PV affect site aesthetics?
149
How will PV affect site aesthetics?
150
Roof Issues
Dont put a new PV system on an old roof!
Minimum roof life should be 5 7 years. Good idea to do PV and roof at same time Estimate for panel removal/replacement is $1,000 per Kw of system size.
Courtesy London Flat Roofing, Ltd
http://www.londonflatroofing.co.uk/flat-roof-repairs/asphalt-flat-roofs/
Online Production Calculator

www.csi-epbb.com Official program for CSI rebate, everyone must use. Buyers dont have to trust the salesperson. Takes all relevant factors as input and gives estimated annual production and rebate amount.
Online Production Calculator: Shading
Online Production Calculator: Shading
No shade
With shade
Finances
158
Net Metering
Sell Power to the Utility by Day

Buy Power at Night and Winter

Exchange at Retail Annual Cycle
159
Net Metering No Blackout Protection

Unsafe to send live power into grid while workers repairing downed lines
X
No voltage reservoir means house current could fluctuate and damage appliances
X
160
Reduce Your Energy Bills!

Spin Your Meter Slower
Use the electricity you generate first to reduce electricity you would normally buy from the utility or electric service provider
Spin Your Meter Backwards

Excess electricity generated goes through your meter and into the grid Spins your meter backwards! Get credit for stored electricity on the grid

Net Metering
Meter
Customer side
Utility side
Net Metering
Generation: 3 kWh
Surplus: 2 kWh
Meter Load: 1 kWh Customer side
Cash credit: $ .60 2 kWh @ $(going rate) Utility side
Net Metering
Generation: 1 kWh
Surplus: 0 kWh
Cash credit: $ .00
Utility side
Net Metering
Generation: 0 kWh
Need: 1 kWh
Cash debit: $ .09 1 kWh @ $(going rate) Utility side
Net Metering
What do you get paid if your system over-produces?
Cost of power at $.16/Kwh Wholesale cost: $.10/kwh Markup to cover grid maintenance: $.06/kwh
CPUC rulePG&E must comply The full retail rate that PV owners get paid for their power includes a subsidy (markup) that comes from all rate payers. The CPUC determined that this full subsidy would only be allowed to cover your usage, not for you to go into the power-generation business. For over-production, compensation will be at a lower rate, to be determined.
166
Net Metering
Average monthly usage kWh/mo PV system production
750
Roll over
500
250
May SUMMER
October WINTER
April
167
Net Metering
750
The surplus covers the shortfall, and your yearly bill is minimal.
500
250
May SUMMER
October WINTER
April
168
Net Metering
750
PV system produces less than your yearly usage.
500 You pay this amount
250
May SUMMER
October WINTER
April
169
Net Metering
750
PV system produces more than your yearly usage.

You are paid a different rate for this amount around 4 per kWh.
500
250
May SUMMER
October WINTER
April
170
Methods of Payment
Two fundamentally different concepts: Net Metering Serves the onsite load FIRST, then interacts with the utility grid. Feed-in Tariff Does not serve the onsite load and ONLY interacts with the utility grid.
Two meters
171
One meter
Feed-in Tariff
Generation track Feed-in (credit) Meter
Usage (debit) Meter Usage track

172
Net Metering vs. Feed-in Tariff

Net Metering: For PV systems from 1 kW to 1 mW
Feed-in Tariff: For PV systems from 1 mW to 20 mW. See www.pge.com/feedintariffs
173
PG&E Renewable Energy Programs

CaliforniaSolarInitiative SolarWaterHeating(CSIThermal)
Available PG&E Programs
SelfGenerationIncentiveProgram NetEnergyMetering FeedinTariffPrograms* RenewableAuctionMechanism* RenewablesRFO PVRFO* UtilityOwnedRenewables*
SystemSize
1kW
100 kW Customerscale
1MW
3MW
20MW Utilityscale
100 MW++
*Neworrevisedprogram
174
Rate Schedules (Tariffs)

Two main types of residential rates: TIERED (E-1) The more you use, the more you pay.
Baseline amounts plus tier charges based on percentage of baseline.
Time-of-Use (TOU) Additional factor depending on when you use the power.
175
PG&E Baseline Territory Map
Baseline=guaranteed minimum amount of low cost electricity for everyone--all income levels.
Baseline allocation determined by geographic territory averages.
176
PG&E Baseline Territory Allocations
177
Tiered Rate (E-1)

PG&E monthly electric bill for a large home user:
178
Tiered Rate (E-1)

PG&E monthly electric bill for a large home user:
Baseline = 9.8 x 33 = 323.4 kWh
5 rate tiers
= $ 38.41 = $ 13.10 = $ 65.79 = $ 129.46 = $ 3.12 $ 249.88
1 2 3 4 5
978.00
Used 978 Kwh costing $ 249.88

179
Tiered Rate (E-1)

Breakdown of charges:
180
E-1 / PG&E Standard Rate Schedule (Residential)

of 1/1/12 Rate 6/1/10 PG&E E-1 As Residential
45.0 40.0 35.0 Cents per kWh 30.0 25.0 20.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 Less than 100% 101% 130% 131% 200% 201% 300% Over 300% 13.5 14.6 29.1 29.5
40.0 33.5
40.0 33.5
12.8 11.9
Perce ntage of base line allocation

181
Rate Tiers
The less you use, the more you eliminate the expensive upper tiers:
5 rate tiers
= $ 38.41 = $ 13.10 = $ 65.79 = $ 129.46 = $ 3.12 $ 249.88
1 2 3 4 5
978.00
182
Rate Tiers
The less you use, the more you eliminate the expensive upper tiers:
5 rate tiers
= $ 38.41 = $ 13.10 = $ 65.79 = $ 129.46 = $ 3.12 $ 51.52
1 2 3 4 5
421.42
Used 421 kWh costing $ 51.52
From 978 Kwh to 421 Kwh -- from $250 to $50. Lowering the usage 57% lowers the bill 80%.
183

PG&E E-1 As Residential of 1/1/12 Rate 6/1/10
45.0 40.0 35.0 Cents per kWh 30.0 25.0 20.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 Less than 100% 101% 130% 131% 200% 201% 300% Over 300% 11.9 12.8 13.5 14.6 29.1 29.5
40.0 33.5
40.0 33.5

184

of 1/1/12 Rate 6/1/10 PG&E E-1 As Residential
45.0 40.0 35.0 Cents per kWh 30.0 25.0 20.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 Less than 100% 101% 130% 131% 200% 201% 300% Over 300% 13.5 14.6 29.1 29.5
40.0 33.5
40.0 33.5
12.8 11.9
Solar reverses the rate tier effect

Higher ROI
Lower ROI

185
Demand Management Strategies

1. Reduce overall load. Energy efficiency, conservation 2. Inform people so they can cooperate voluntarily. Publicity, Flex Your Power alerts 3. Create the ability to remotely turn off certain appliances. Smart AC, smart meters, etc. 4. Charge more for peak usage. Time-of-Use rates, Peak-Time pricing and others.
186
Time of Use Rates

21,000
19,000
PG&E Peak Load July 25 @ 1700 hours 20,883 MWs
17,000
15,000
13,000
11,000
9,000
7,000
5,000
Jan
Fe b
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
187
Time of Use Rates
188
Time of Use Rates

Residential "E6" Time-of-Use Pricing Periods
Midnight - 6am 6am - 10am 10am - 1pm 1pm - 7pm Sunday Monday TuesdayWednesdayThursday Friday Saturday Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Off-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Part-Peak Off-Peak 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
189
Time of Use Rates

35 30 25
Cents per Kwh
20 15 10 5 0 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
E-6 summer rates (May October)

190
Time of Use Rates

3500 3000
Kwh Produced
2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23

Hours of the Day
Typical summer production

191
Time of Use Rates

35 30 25
Cents per Kwh
20 15 10 5 0 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
Summer pattern (May October)

192
Time of Use Rates

35 30 25
Cents per Kwh
Sell Buy
20 15 10 5 0 1
Buy
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
Buying low and selling high adds value.

193
Should I go on a TOU rate with my PV system?

High
On-peak usage
Med
No
Low
Yes
25%
50%
75%
100%
Percentage of yearly usage covered by solar

194
With PV: Change in Utility Billing

Two bills, gas & electric Yearly billing cycle for electricity Fixed minimum electric charge reflected on gas (blue) bill
195
Change in Utility Billing
Minimum electric hookup charge
196

Minimum electric charge
Current monthly charge
Cumulative charge
197

PV electric bill: meter readings
198

PV electric bill: usage history
199

Yearly trueup example
Yearly usage total $170.20 Already paid the fixed amount of $6.71 per month for 12 months, total of $80.52 Amount owed is 170.20 80.52 = $89.68
200
Relatively Low Maintenance
Soiling Factors
Three basic categories for rainy / dry season areas
Washed as often as necessary Washed once in July Never washed ~ 1.0 ~ 0.96 ~ 0.93
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 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 site and power production--in California is about 1.1 years. Shrinking as costs drop and production gets greener Pays back 10 to 30 times or more its environmental cost
Most PV manufacturing plants will have their own PV system on the roof.
Source: January 2008 Environmental Science & Technology http://sustenergy.blogactiv.eu/2008/05/29/emissions-from-photovoltaic-manufacturing/
California Solar Initiative (CSI)

SB 1
CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission)

Existing Residential Existing Commercial Commercial New Construction
CEC (California Energy Commission)

Residential New Construction
CSI (California Solar Initiative)
NSHP (New Solar Homes Partnership)
Program Administrators
Program Administrators
PG&E
SCE
CCSE
(SDREO)
PG&E
SCE
SDG&E
The CSI makes PV Economical:

Gives financial incentives to lower the cost
Secure
Screens and tests equipment Requires long warranties Helps screen and check installers Standardizes production estimates
Easy
Helps 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) (Performance-based Incentive) Ongoing monthly payment for 5 years Based on actual production Possible for all systems, but required for large ones (> 50 kW)
PBI
CSI Financial Incentivesnumbers

EPBB PBI
Overall outline: Incentives step down according to amount of PV installed (MW)
CSI Financial Incentivesnumbers

Data as of 2/7/12
MW remaining MW under review = 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/
CSI Rebate Adjustments

Base system size in AC kilowatts (CEC) may be adjusted downwards depending on design and geography.
Determined by EPBB calculator: www.csi-epbb.com according to the following inputs: 1. Zip code 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
Sample Current Situation

Case study Electric bill: $100/month = $1200/year After 10 years you will have paid $12,000 if rates do not rise.
Is this a reasonable assumption?
211
Sample Current Situation

Case study Electric bill: $100/month = $1200/year With inflation, after 10 years you likely will have paid $14,000 to $17,000 With nothing to show for it except higher electric bills ($150+/mo). No equity Nothing paid off So the real question is
Can solar be less expensive than this?

PV Statistics & Performance for the Average Family of Four

(monthly electrical bill $100-$200)
4.0 Kw AC System
COST (before rebate = $6,500 / kW) REBATE (est. $230 / kW) TAX CREDIT NET COST Maintenance (25 40 yrs.) Total lifecycle cost kWh Production Space requirements Avg. cost of power now ($150/mo) 25-yr. cost of power (est.) 40-yr. cost of power (est.)
$26,000 $920 $7524 $17,556 $5,000 $22,556
~ 6,500 kWh / year ~ 350 - 500 s.f. $.18/Kwh $.14/Kwh $.09/Kwh

213
Three Ways to Buy 1. Full purchase (cash or borrowing) You

Owner of system Borrow money or pay cash Full payment up front Maintain and monitor system Economics: Cash / total savings Loan pmt. / monthly savings
PV Vendor
Design and install Sell Honor warranties (equipment & labor)
$$$
Three Ways to Buy 2. Solar Lease You

Low or no money down Fixed lease payment Possible buyout in the future Economics: Lease pmt. / monthly savings
PV Vendor
$
$
Owner of system Design and install Lease Maintain and monitor system Honor warranties (equipment & labor) Remove system at end if needed
215
Three Ways to Buy 3. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) You

Low or no money down Monthly power payment Possible buyout in the future Economics: Monthly pmt. / monthly savings
PV Vendor
$
$
Owner of system Design and install Sell power Maintain and monitor system Honor warranties (equipment & labor) Remove system at end if needed
216
Solar lease
Lease
217
Solar lease
218
PV System Costs by Component

Retail costs of system under 30 kW
PV Panels Inverter Balance of System Installation / Labor ~ $2 per Watt ~ $.50 per Watt ~ $1 per Watt ~ $3 per Watt
Total cost ~ $6.50 per watt installed
THE BIG QUESTION:
Whats the payback?
Return on Investment
Different ways to measure Payback: Time period when savings = investment cost IRR (internal rate of return): Percentage of annual return which looks at full life cycle NPV (net present value): Cash flow projection which takes in financing costs Monthly Cash Flow: Change in your monthly payment
221
Return on Investment
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 for many people with higher electric bills. They can start making money from day one and continue for over 30 years! Lower bill amounts will typically start out slightly negative and improve over time.
222
Grid Parity
When the price per kWh of electricity from a renewable source is equal to the current average grid price. PV example:
System net cost: $20,000, lifetime maintenance $4,000. Expected to generate average of 5,000 kWh per year for 30 years, total of 150,000 kWh. $24,000 / 150,000 = $ .16 per kWh Current utility average price = $ .16 per kWh = Grid Parity
223
Increase in Home Value

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
Solar Rights Act

California law that supports solar Keeps HOAs and other CC&Rs from prohibiting solar systems Forbids increased property taxes on owners system Restriction ends when home is sold, and assessment can go up to reflect system
224
WefindcompellingevidencethatsolarPVsystemsin Californiahaveboostedhomesalesprices.
http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/emp/reports/lbnl4476e.pdf
Renewable Energy Credits

Called RECs or green tags The green attribute of the power Connected to carbon offset accounting Central feature of a system to move money from polluters to non-polluters.
226
Bad guys
Renewable Energy Certificates

Cap and Trade
Good guys
Trade
Polluters must buy RECs according to penalty.
Penalty
Cap Pollution preventers

Permitted
Polluters
Source: W ikipedia free license
Pollution removers
227
Carbon Offsets
Making activity carbon neutral Funding projects that remove as much carbon as you generate Additional social & business image value
228
Strategies for Cost Reduction
Strategies for Cost Reduction

Installation efficiencies/roofing Multiple benefits from one strategy Design integration Package with energy efficiency The PV Bulk-Buy?
Installation Efficiencies
PV Roof Tiles
BIPV Building Integrated Photovoltaics
Tiles interlock quickly with NO roof penetrations

PV Integrated Roofing Membrane

Courtesy: Solar Integrated
PV Skylights
Multiple Benefits
Mitigate unwanted solar heat gain Control glare Displace existing materials cost Produce electricity
Package with Energy Efficiency

Conservation gives best payback Many EE rebates available Will be required for rebate Can handle entire package for client
PV Bulk Buy
Community targets for total Kw Can lead to 10% or more discounts Many companies offering it
Sales and Installation Process
Case Studies
Residential Case Study

Phone screening information:
John Doe in Gilroy, CA $200/month PG&E electric bill Usage projected to stay the same Composition shingle roof Thinks there are no shade issues Overhead photos not clear
Site Visit Data: Roof Layout

N W S E
25 4:12 pitch
Back of house
65
Front of house
N W S E
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) Electrical service and panel OK Substantial electric bill
What Size System?

Usage History
Jul-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06 Jan-07 Feb-07 Mar-07 Apr-07 May-07
Jun-07 Total Avg.
946 1127 1349 970 1093 1077 1349 867 886 768 815
836 12083 1007
Usage pattern normal Monthly average is good starting point Propose maximum size system and then work to customers budget Check for competitive bids, ask to see them
Acme Solar final bid
24 190-w att modules Tw o 2000-w att inv erters
Commercial Case Study
Car dealership in Gilroy
Commercial Case Study

Check usable space Estimate maximum size of system Determine average usage from bill Give ballpark financial numbers
80 90
90
140
30 x 40
Total space is about 16,000 square feet, but how much is usable? Need site visit to determine.
Visual estimate about 60+% usable space. about 10,000 sf. total = 100 KW system maximum.
Electric bill yearly average: 31,000 Kwh/month
Average blended rate per Kwh = $ .16594 Average monthly bill = 31,000 x $ .16594 = $5,144 or about $5,000 per month.
From website: www.csi-epbb.com
Page 1
Page 2
This image cannot currently be display ed.
PV Sales-Installation Process
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 STEP 5: Install System STEP 6: Schedule Final Building Inspection STEP 7: Schedule Final Utility Inspection STEP 8: Claim Incentives
Find Installers
Personal references CSI website
http://gosolarcalifornia.org
CalSEIA Members http://calseia.org/, Find an Expert link Internet Advertising Better Business Bureau Diamond Certified
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 before use DC system size: 20 Sharp 200-watt modules = 20 x 200 = 4000 watts = 4.0 kW DC

Lookup CEC ratings for panels.
http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/equipment/

Lookup CEC ratings for inverters.
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 watts, inverter efficiency 96% = 20 x 176 = 3520 watts x .96 = 3379 watts = 3.38 kW AC

System size: 20 Sharp 200-watt modules 1 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 only gives DC numbers ask for CEC AC size.
Comparing Bids: Per-watt price

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 the preferred measurement. 3. The per-watt price. This is determined by dividing the full price by the system size. This is the unit price that allows you to compare apples to apples. It will typically be around $6.50/watt.
262
Comparing Bids: Per-watt price

Base price: $20,000 Roof adder: $2,000 Permit fee: $500 Total: $22,500 System Size: 4.0 Kw DC 3.38 Kw AC (CEC) (3,380 watts)
Per-watt price: $22,500 / 3,380 = $6.65/watt
263
Comparing Bids: Group discount

Three options: 1. 20 Sharp 185 panels, 3.19 Kw AC, $6.05/watt 2. 20 Evergreen 180 panels, 3.12 Kw AC, $6.45/watt 3. 20 Kyocera 190 panels, 3.28 Kw AC, $6.90/watt
If group target of 100 kW is met, price will drop to $6.00/watt
264
Review of Learning Objectives
Class Quiz
Jobs Overview
and
Future Trends
Solar Incentive Data: National and State
http://www.dsireusa.org/
Courtesy DOE
Solar Installation Data: National and State
http://openpv.nrel.gov/visualization/index.php
Courtesy NREL
Solar Installation Data: State
Detailed statistics
http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/
Courtesy CSI
Solar Installation Data: State
Complete data file
Courtesy CSI
http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/
Information Available from Analysis of Full Data File
# Installers by # of Systems
600 500
1/07 to 4/10 CSI Data
480
502
400
300
200
191
100
39
0 1 system 2-10 systems 11-50 systems 51-99 systems
32
100-200 systems
26
200+ systems
Compiled by Verve Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov
Courtesy Verve Solar Consulting
Top 30 Residential Installers

SolarCity REC Solar, Inc. Akeena Solar, Inc. Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. REgrid Power, Inc. DBA Real Goods Solar Sungate Energy Solutions, Inc. Self-Install (Same as Host Customer) SPG Solar, Inc. Stout & Burg Electric, Inc. Mohr Power Solar, Inc. NextEnergy Corp. Marin Solar Inc. DBA Real Goods Solar HelioPower, Inc. Advanced Solar Electric, Inc Sun Light and Power Independent Energy Systems, Inc. dba Real Goods Solar Premier Power Renewable Energy, Inc. SolarCraft Services, Inc. Solar Technologies Acro Energy Technologies, Inc. Cobalt Power Systems, Inc. Sullivan Solar Power Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort Inc. Horizon Energy Systems Luminalt Energy Corporation Sungevity, Inc. The Solar Company SunWize Technologies Potero Corp. Occidental Power
Compiled by Verv e Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov 0 500
by total # installs
CSI Residential Projects # installed systems 1/07 to 4/10
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
Top 30 Lg Commercial CSI Installers

SunPower Corporation, Systems Sun Edison LLC Team-Solar, Inc. REC Solar, Inc. SPG Solar, Inc. BP Solar International, Inc. Conergy Projects, Inc. SolarCity Pacific Power Management, LLC Permacity Construction Corp. Erickson Construction Co. Stellar Energy GP, Inc. Bleyco Inc Chico Electric Solar Integrated Technologies, Inc. Unlimited Energy, Inc. SPG Solar, Inc. - Novato EI Solutions Premier Power Renewable Energy, Inc. Permacity Construction Akeena Solar, Inc. SunPower Corporation Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. Sunlight Electric LLC EI Solutions, Inc. Granite Bay Energy (Formerly GBEG dba Granite Bay Solar) Solar Power, Inc. BAP Power Corporation INTERIOR ELECTRIC INCORPORATED Sunview Vineyards of California, Inc. 34,013 17,211 11,413 10,110 8,199 6,347 5,265 4,913 4,419 4,191 2,889 2,862 2,852 2,181 2,105 2,089 1,963 1,920 1,797 1,761 1,667 1,649 1,539 1,459 1,364 1,197 1,176 1,120 1,109 1,030
kWp installed through CSI 1/07 to 4/7/2010
0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 Compiled by Verv e Solar Consulting from data CaliforniaSolarStatistics.ca.gov
Solar job trends
http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/110558592629873/SWIC_EmployerSurvey_SummaryReport_1.23.2011.pdf
http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/110558592629874/2011Q4_SWIC_JobsReport_Summary_1+23+2012.pdf
PV Job Categories
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 Monitoring / Maintenance Technician / Troubleshooter Safety Manager Financial Operations (work with banks, etc.) HR / Hiring Marketing
Smart Grid
Adding information technology to the electric grid infrastructure

http://www.smartgridnews.com/artman/publish/Technologies_Communications_Resources/CSR2009-Environment-The-Smart-Grid-Vision-1563.html
Smart Grid
Source: NIST
Adding information technology to the electric grid infrastructure
Courtesy PG&E
Smart Meter
Gas Meter with SmartMeter Module

Gas Meter Module
Attaches to existing gas meters Measures 5.5 x 6.5 inches Transmits wireless signals to the
Data Collector Unit

20 year life span A.k.a. Meter Transmission Unit
(MTU)
9/7/2012
2010 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved
282
Electric Network Components

Meters Relays Access Points 3G Cellular Network Head End
Utility IQ
9/7/2012
2009 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved
283
A Platform for Innovation

Customer Energy Management
From meter to the home
Near-time electric usage information Timely price signals Appliance / energy management control signals
From meter to utility

Customer electric use Customer energy generation (e.g. solar) Appliance response to energy management control signals
Internet
PG&E
Premise
CEM network communication SmartMeter communication
Dont forget the bottom line

Paper
Wealth
Contact Information
Pete Shoemaker
Pacific Energy Center 851 Howard St. San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 973-8850 pjsy@pge.com

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Basics of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems for Grid-Tied Applications

Basics of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems for Grid-Tied Applications

One Minute Summary

Buy your own power plant

Your home needs electricity

Pacific Energy Center San Francisco

The Big Picture: Team California

Pacific Energy Center San Francisco

The California Regulated Utility Financial Structure

Californias regulated utilities cover most of the state.

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)

Southern California Gas (SoCalGas)

The California Public Utilities Commission is the regulatory body.

Profits Energy Sales

Per-capita power consumption.

Conclusion: The utility financial structure must change.

Profits Energy Sales Energy Sales

Solar Electric Trends

PG&E Electrical Power Mix 2009

U.S. Electrical Power Mix June 2011

Bioenergy4% Geothermal 4% Wind 3% Small Hydro 3% Solar <1%

15% Large Hydro 13%

Natural Gas 35%

The Big Picture

U.S. Electricity Generation 2008

Source: Energy Information Administration / Annual Energy Rev iew 2008

Total energy consumed = 40.67

Delivered for end use = 13.21 (32%)

Over 2/3 of the energy is wasted.

3 times the value!

PG&E as a Partner and Solutions Provider

Reduce Energy Use

3) Offset any remaining carbon emissions.

Partnership Education Outreach ClimateSmart

2) Get the greenest power you can.

Output (work done)

Kilowatt (kW), Megawatt (MW)

1 sec. Instantaneous power: 20 W

1 hour Power over time: 20 Wh

Voltage and Current

Voltage and Current

Types of Electrical Current

The Electric Grid

The Electric Grid

Source: NPR http://w w w .npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=110997398

The Electric Grid

Transmission: Moving it in bulk from generators to distribution centers.

Distribution: Bringing it from centers (sub-stations) to individual homes and businesses.

The Electric Grid

Seasonal load: Increase in demand in

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

The top 50 Hours represent 0.6% of the total hours in a year

Load Duration Curve

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

PG&E 2006 Annual Usage

Demand Management Strategies