North American Clean Energy - November December 2009 by North American Clean Energy

VOLUME 3

2010 WIND BUYERS GUIDE Driving Down the Cost of Solar Energy Incentives, new products & more Understanding the DOE’s Loan Guarantee Program for renewables Roadmap to the Commercialization of Next Generation Biofuels

PLUS Show in Print features… • CanSIA Solar Conference 2009 • POWER-GEN International

ISSUE 6

~ A MESSAGE FROM THE SUN ~

“LAB TESTS ARE GREAT. BUT IT’S HIGH-VOLUME PRODUCTION THAT WILL

REALLY PUT A SMILE ON MY FACE. I’ve heard some impressive-sounding announcements about recent laboratory successes in converting my energy into electricity. But to make solar power the global resource it’s capable of becoming, you’re going to have to expand on those lab results with high volume panel production. And you’re going to have to deploy those panels on a massive, worldwide scale. I’m talking gigantic panels. Lots of them. Everywhere. Which is where Applied Materials comes in. They’ve spent the last 40 years mastering the challenge of taking scientific breakthroughs and scaling them into commercialized products, at lower and lower prices, year after year. Now they’re doing for solar panels what they’ve already done for computer chips and flat panel displays. I mean, they can already deliver 5.7m 2 thin film solar panels at over 8% efficiency in high volume production. Which makes me one happy mid-sized star.”

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE SUN. For over 40 years, Applied Materials has been the world leader in nanomanufacturing technology, and is now the world leader in solar photovoltaic manufacturing equipment. appliedmaterials.com/solar Applied Materials and the Applied Materials logo are registered trademarks in the U.S. and other countries. © 2009. All rights reserved.

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Ground mounts Designed, Engineered, Supplied & Installed BAJA CONSTRUCTION................ SINCE 1981 For more info: solar@bajacarports.com or 800.366.9600

VOLUME 3

ISSUE 6

contents

2010

New Bites

Stimulus and Response: The loan guarantee program moves ahead

Evaluating Solar Energy Plants to Support Investment Decisions

Driving Down the Cost of Solar Energy

Renewable Energy in Europe & the US: A study on the difference in incentive programs

Solar Assessment Districts

Advances in Solar-charged Products

Solar Energy: New products

WIND BUYERS GUIDE Driving Down the Cost of Solar Energy Incentives, new products & more

November / December 2009 Volume 3, Number 6

Understanding the DOE’s Loan Guarantee Program for renewables Roadmap to the Commercialization of Next Generation Biofuels

EDITOR

Michelle Froese mfroese@nacleanenergy.com

PLUS Show in Print features… • CanSIA Solar Conference 2009 • POWER-GEN International

ART DIRECTOR

Rommel Ramirez production@nacleanenergy.com SALES MANAGER

Ian Stuart istuart@nacleanenergy.com

Erection of the first Siemens direct drive test wind turbine near the city of Ringkøbing in Denmark. Credit: www.siemens.com

departments

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Kristy Vail circulation@nacleanenergy.com ACCOUNTING

Alison Bell abell@nacleanenergy.com PUBLISHER

Ian Stuart istuart@nacleanenergy.com

Solar Energy 2010 Wind Buyers Guide Investing in Clean Energy

53 WIND BUYERS GUIDE

CanSIA Solar Conference 2009: Show in print

Geothermal Energy

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Hydro & Marine Energy

per year. Editorial, Advertising, Production and Circulation are at 255 Newport Drive, Suite 336, Port Moody, B.C.

2010 53

Hedging with Derivatives in Today’s Environment

POWER-GEN International 2009: Show in print

Wind Energy and the Canadian Commercial Bank

How Heating, Cooling & Electricity are Produced by Geothermal Energy

BioPower

Energy Efficiency

An Economically Sustainable Future: Alaska’s innovative geothermal project

Event Calendar

74 64

HydroPower: “An incredible opportunity”

Hydro: Products & news

Roadmap to the Commercialization of Next Generation Biofuels

BioPower: Products & news

In Search of Tomorrow’s Biofuels

Knowing How to Measure a Green Building can Help Sell Renewable Energy

A New Tool for Combating Climate Change? Getting sued for greenhouse gas emissions

V3H 5H1 (604) 461-6223. North American Clean Energy accepts no responsibility or liability for reported claims made by manufacturers and/or distributors for products or services; the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of North American Clean Energy. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of

2010 Wind Buyers Guide

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editor’s note It’s been an interesting year. As 2009 slowly comes to a close—a year mixed with concern and hope, at least given the North American economy—renewable energy seems to be holding its own. Despite a lull in wind turbine manufacturing, the American Wind Energy Association announced in its (Q3) market report that the wind energy industry installed 1,649 MW of new power generating capacity in the third quarter, bringing the total capacity added this year to over 5,800 MW (an amount higher than the second quarter of 2009 or the third quarter of 2008). The fourth quarter of 2009 is not expected to be as strong as ’08 but, nevertheless, the total wind power capacity operating in the US is now over 31,000 MW, generating enough electricity to power the equivalent of nearly nine million homes (www.awea.org). In terms of geothermal power, the US continues to lead the world in online energy capacity and, according the Geothermal Energy Association (www.geo-energy.org), continues to be one of the principal countries generating growth—as of October, the US had a total installed capacity of 3152.72 MW. Bound to help with that number: the recent $338 million in Recovery Act funding from the Department of Energy (DOE) for the exploration and development of new geothermal fields and research. These grants will support 123 projects in 39 states, and will be matched more than one-forone with an additional $353 million in private and non-federal cost-share funds. The present and future also looks good for hydropower, with $30.6 million allocated to hydroelectric projects and another $50 million for water power R&D from the DOE. A study released by the National Hydropower Association (www.hydro. org) claims the US industry could install between 23,000 MW and 60,000 MW of

additional capacity by 2025, or enough to generate electricity for 31 million additional homes. Currently, the US has about 78,000 MW installed capacity of conventional hydropower, which provides enough electricity to power more than 27 million homes and serve 75 million people. Having recently attended Solar Power International in Anaheim, California this October, solar energy is certainly becoming more viable and cost-friendly, as well. Named one of Trade Show Week’s “Fastest 50” growing conferences, the event itself broke attendance records, hosting more than 24,000 industry professionals, a notable increase from the previous year. According to Rhone Resch, president and CEO of SEIA, “The size and scope of Solar Power International reflects solar energy’s potential as an engine of economic growth.” (Check out Resch’s “Solar Bill of Rights” at www.seia.org). As of press time, renewable energy predictions for 2010 are only beginning to surface. Deloitte, a business advisory firm, forecasts that smart grids will take the world by storm next year as annual global spending on the technology will jump to $33 billion by 2014 (it was $12 billion in 2008). Deloitte also anticipates that oil-producing countries will become hot sources for renewable energy. Close proximity to European markets, abundant cash to invest from oil revenues, and ideal weather conditions, especially for solar power, could majorly pay off (www.deloit.com). Your thoughts? This issue, we focus on the expedition of the loan guarantees program for renewables, energy investments, solar incentives, and more. And, don’t miss our 2010 Wind Buyers Guide—a perfect place to plan for the New Year.

Sincerely, Michelle Froese

news bites SmartGridLicense.com This new website serves as a resource for utilities and other industries seeking information about licensing technology that fosters development of the Smart Grid, an infrastructure that allows utilities to optimize the grid for resource deployment and encourages a change in consumer behavior by helping to deliver long-term savings. The Smart Grid is also designed to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions to bolster air quality. “The power of the Smart Grid lies in its ability to leverage the Internet and wireless signals to allow various components to ‘talk’ to each other,” explained T David Petite, CEO of SIPCO LLC and a pioneer of Smart Metering technology. “Appliances like refrigerators and washing machines can ‘talk’ to the meter, or an entire neighborhood of meters can even ‘talk’ to each other. This means utilities no longer have to project resource needs based on historic consumption—for example, with wireless mesh technology, they can better monitor consumption usage and control home devices in more real-time.” More than eight million Smart Meters are currently deployed throughout the US, and the market for residential energy management has taken the first significant steps in deploying Smart Grid technologies and advanced meter infrastructure on a broad scale. In addition, the federal stimulus bill allocates $11 billion for Smart Grid initiatives through 2010, with the Obama administration’s support.

Portable energy logging system Onset recently announced the HOBO Measurement & Verification System, a portable energy logging system for measuring, analyzing, and documenting building energy performance. The self-contained system makes it convenient and economical for energy performance contractors, energy consultants, and building energy managers to track the performance of building systems such as chillers and packaged HVAC units, and verify the impact of energy efficiency improvements. The system, which is housed in a rugged, heavy-duty carrying case, provides pre-wired sensors for quick set-up and includes magnetic mounting feet for fast, secure placement in electrical panels. Users can plot and analyze energy performance data with the accompanying HOBOware software. HOBOware provides an intuitive, graphical user interface that enables users to quickly and easily graph, analyze, and print data files, as well as export the data to Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet programs. The HOBO Measurement & Verification System is available in both single-phase and three-phase models. Onset | www.onsetcomp.com

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

“I’d like to thank you and Stefan Braendle for the excellent article on solar thermal in Volume 3, Issue 4. I’ve been in the solar thermal industry since 1981 and continue to ﬁght misconceptions that PV is all that solar is. I’d like to also point out two even larger installations of solar thermal in North America. While both are in Mexico, they are for totally different applications. The ﬁrst for pool heating is over 700 collectors (2,100 sq. m). An even larger system installed just earlier this year is for process pre-heating for a Nestle chocolate plant featuring over 900 collectors (2,700 sq. m.).” Dave Sizelove, President & CEO Aquatherm Industries, Inc.

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Ed Feo is a partner in the international law firm of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP. He co-chairs the Firm’s project finance and energy practice and is a member of the Firm’s Global Executive Committee.

Stimulus and Response The loan guarantee program moves ahead By Ed Feo | Partner, Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy LLP

he renewable energy finance story of the year is the emergence of the federal government as the financial prime mover. The Treasury grant program in Section 1603 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (“ARRA”) has proven to be a powerful tool in leveraging new investment and financings. The Department of Energy (“DoE”) has accelerated its grant program for new energy technologies with funds being provided for new generation, smart grid, energy efficiency, and fuels solutions. And, finally, the DoE loan guarantee program under Title XVII of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 has gained momentum with new solicitations in July and early October. Last column addressed the DoE loan guarantee solicitations issued in late July. These solicitations were for large transmission projects and innovative technology generation projects. At that time, the initial filing dates under the July solicitations had not yet occurred. With those dates now passed, sponsors with qualifying projects are queuing up by the dozens at the DoE’s door. The definition of “new or significantly improved technologies” is especially helpful to technologies that have been deployed outside of the United States on a commercial basis, but not yet so deployed here. Expect to see a number of large-scale solar projects benefitting from this program.

The beneﬁt to equity from the program will come from the reduced debt cost and greater tenor of ﬁnancing capable with a loan guarantee. The DoE offers 100% loan guarantees under July innovative technology solicitation. Funding will come from the Federal Financing Bank (“FFB”). In those transactions, the DoE and FFB are the only credit parties and perform their own due diligence, credit assessment, and underwriting. This program does not have to deal with the intercreditor issues arising under the new Section 1705 program implemented under ARRA—the partial guarantee of loans to commercial renewable energy technologies. On October 7th, 2009, DoE issued its first solicitation under Section 1705 for guarantees of up to 80% of the debt financing for commercial renewable energy technology projects. Manufacturing facilities are not included in this solicitation. The solicitation establishes a series of ten application dates, starting on November 23rd, 2009. The program will apply $750 million of funds allocated under ARRA to pay for the credit subsidy costs of the loan guarantees. The credit subsidy cost is the premium paid to DoE to issue the guarantee. Estimates of the amount of guaranteed loans vary widely, based on the assumed amount of the credit subsidy cost— some industry experts suggest as high as $15 billion. 8

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

Both project level and corporate level financings will qualify for this program. Guarantees generally are available only for construction projects, although a takeout financing of another construction loan might qualify if there is no other term financing available to the project. The new solicitation defines “commercial technology” as technology in use in three or more projects anywhere in the same or substantially similar application for a period of at least two years. The time periods and geographic scope are different than the innovative technology definition for the July solicitation (requiring no more than three projects in operation in the US for more than five years). A technology could qualify as both innovative and commercial under the different solicitations depending on the extent and timing of deployment. Under the October solicitation, DoE will work directly with qualified financial institutions in the Financial Institution Partnership Program (“FIPP”). Under this program, eligible lenders (not the borrower) will apply to the DoE for the loan guarantee. The lender applicant is obligated to perform a due diligence review and credit assessment consistent with its standard internal policies applied in making loans where no guarantee is issued. The lender applicant (and each proposed other entity providing financing) must provide a financing commitment as part of the guarantee application. The solicitation is geared to a simple senior secured bank or institutional financing. However, the definitions of “lead lender” and “holder” of the guaranteed obligations are sufficiently flexible to contemplate capital markets and securitization structures. One objective of the FIPP is to underwrite transactions that have credit ratings of BB or the equivalent. The lender applicant must obtain and submit a credit rating for the proposed transaction as part of its application. This level of credit rating is typical for most senior secured debt financings, although it is not market practice to obtain credit ratings in privately financed debt transactions. Applications will be evaluated by DoE on a competitive basis and scored for programmatic factors (especially readiness of the project for financing and simplicity of structure), creditworthiness (financial strength and security of revenues), and financing and funding plan (ability of the financing parties to close the deal). The solicitation goes to great lengths to emphasize that simple financing structures and “shovel readiness” are critical factors in light of the ARRA requirement for construction to commence by September 30th, 2011. Commencement of construction means the borrower has completed all engineering and has obtained all permits, engaged all contractors necessary to build the project, and commenced physical construction on the site. Title XVII requires a project obtaining the benefit of a loan guarantee comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”). The new solicitation notes that, given the outside date for commencement of construction, projects requiring an environmental assessment (instead of a full environmental impact statement) are more likely to qualify for a loan guarantee. Many projects that have not previously

had to do a NEPA review will be doing one now. The loan guarantee will cover no more than 80% of the debt. This program will require the holders of guaranteed loans to keep the uncovered portion as well, with transfers requiring DoE consent. Any transfer must maintain the pro rata relationship between guaranteed and unguaranteed obligations. DoE also makes all decisions as to the guaranteed obligations (including the exercise of remedies), except for a consent right of holders as to amendments of basic financial terms and the right of two thirds of the holders to direct remedies on an extended borrower event of default if DoE fails to act. This new solicitation presents a narrow gate in terms of readiness, creditworthiness, and environmental compliance, but has the potential to be of great benefit to qualifying projects. The firmness of the requirements of this program is remarkable given the flexibility on “readiness” evidenced in the prior solicitations. But this program is all about stimulus and the ability to get construction moving. Although initially skeptical about the likelihood of sponsors wanting to go through this program, given its stringent requirements, we are seeing a tremendous amount of interest from sponsors in getting the ‘part one’ applications on file as soon as possible. Of course, the stimulus effect here is not to finance projects that would not otherwise be financed. In fact, the effect is quite opposite: projects that will qualify for this program will likely qualify for financing in the private market. The stimulus effect should come, if at all, from the potential enhanced equity returns afforded to qualified projects, as well as from greater leveraging of private debt financing sources. One could say the program makes the rich richer, but the policy decision to support that outcome was passed with ARRA earlier this year. The benefit to equity from the program will come from the reduced debt cost and greater tenor of financing capable with a loan guarantee. The net present value of the project to the equity sponsor improves with lower debt service payments. That improved equity return means more cash flow to the sponsor, or a higher price on the sale of interests in the project. Presumably, those additional funds can be used for other renewable energy project investments. Leveraging the private finance market will occur in two ways. One is that more lenders will participate in renewable energy finance given the availability of the guarantee. This seems somewhat at odds with the notion that the deals should be underwritable without the guarantee (in effect, the lenders are being asked to

evaluate the credit blind to the guarantee). But, as a practical matter, we are seeing new funding sources being attracted because of the potential guarantee. The effect of the guarantee cannot be isolated in a vacuum. The other benefit will be that lenders will have more capital available given the lower reserve requirements of a guaranteed loan. So, we should expect growth in the capacity of the debt markets as a result of the program. It has been an interesting year. The year commenced with the financial markets in disarray. ARRA was passed in February and commenced the new era of federalization of renew-

able energy project finance. The Treasury grant has shown the potential to completely change the basis for federal support from a tax subsidy to a cash subsidy. Finally, we are seeing the DoE loan guarantee program with the potential to finance billions of dollars of projects in 2010. Amazing change in a short period of time. Milbank Tweed Hadley & McCloy LLP www.milbank.com

North American Clean Energy

solar energy

Evaluating Solar Energy Plants to Support Investment Decisions By Marie Schnitzer

s solar projects increase in quantity and scale, capital to fund projects will be increasingly challenging to acquire. Coupled with tighter capital markets, an accurate resource and energy production analysis plays a critical role in presenting a “bankable” report to financial institutions. Several key inputs are used for the analysis: solar resource assessment, energy production projections, and their associated uncertainties. Financeable independent energy production estimates utilize thoroughly screened resource data, solar system design specifications, and projectspecific loss factors and uncertainties to estimate both the expected production of the plant and the corresponding uncertainty to provide several probability levels quantifying financial risk. The first step in assessing the solar resource to screen sites for potential development is to review the modeled data sets. The most widely available dataset from National Renewable Energy Laboratories is the National Solar Radiation Database; however, as the data resolution is 10km, a more rigorous approach is needed to create representative site-specific solar resource data with reduced uncertainty. The satellite imagery conversion process and its coarse resolution does not take into account subgrid scale (such as terrain-induced) climate effects resulting in uncertainty ranges from 8% to greater than 25%. Although this level of uncertainty may be acceptable for prospecting and screening or for smaller scale projects, with an increase in project size from tens to hundreds of megawatts, additional on-site measurements are needed to mitigate project risks by characterizing the site to a greater degree. Another source used to evaluate the solar resource of a particular location is long-term reference stations, which record meteorological data throughout the United States. Though there is a vast network of these stations, in the southwestern US (an area of great interest and activity for developers), there are only four long-term reference stations with solar resource measurement capabilities: Hanford, CA; Mercury Desert Rock, NV; Albuquerque, NM; and El Paso, TX. This network does not provide many opportunities to determine site characteristics within an area of significant activity in prospecting and development, furthering the need to conduct on-site measurements. The observations obtained from on-site resource assessment campaigns provide extremely valuable data to develop and design solar energy projects. Instrumentation should measure minimally global horizontal and diffuse radiation, wind speed and direction, temperature, and relative humidity. On-site campaigns that utilize solar meteorological stations provide micro-siting data that is valuable in characterizing the solar resource to reduce the overall uncertainty of the energy analysis. Data from solar meteorological stations needs quality control to remove errors that may lead to biased or misleading energy production results. All data obtained should be validated using established procedures to ensure high data quality. A typical meteorological year (TMY) is defined as a long-term annualized hourly time series of insolation and relevant meteorological parameters chosen from a typical monthly time series of historical observations. Through data analysis and validation, biases and anomalies can be identified in any of the datasets available in the NRSDB and other weather databases. Once on-site data has been validated, applying the measure-correlate-predict (MCP) method is useful in reducing the uncertainty in projecting the long-term solar resource. In MCP, a linear regression or other relationship is established between a target site, spanning a relatively short time period, and a reference site, spanning a much longer time period. The complete record of the reference station is then used in this relationship to estimate the long-term historical climate at the target site. 10

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

AWS Truewind, a renewable energy consulting firm, recommends an on-site period of record of six to twelve months for use in the MCP process. Energy production projections

Evaluating solar energy production can vary in complexity and are based on a range of variables used to predict performance under operating conditions. Important factors include the use of computer simulation models, solar resource characterization, system specifications, power plant losses, and the uncertainties associated with each of these issues. Computer simulation models should be evaluated and developed carefully to ensure the most accurate simulation of energy production. The capabilities of publicly and commercially available models vary significantly using different meteorological and equipment databases, radiation and system simulation models, and loss factors. These simulation models are limited in capability to evaluate project uncertainty and further steps are needed to complete a bankable report with probability levels (e.g. P50, P90, P99). Essential elements are simulation models and calculators created, then used in conjunction with the commercial software programs. This provides the opportunity to customize simulation models to accommodate for uncertainty calculations, integrate lessons learned, or increase functionality of the stand-alone model. A site-specific TMY is an essential element for accurate energy calculations. The meteorological files included in the publicly or commercially available simulation model databases usually have a coarse resolution and do not offer data for the exact project location. These database files provide a method for screening and prospecting and are not recommended for use in a detailed system analysis as the use of meteorological data found in the database can introduce a bias of several percent in annual energy production. There are considerations for the type of plant and meteorological data needs between a CSP or solar thermal and PV plants. The system equipment, component arrangement, and module simulation model must be known to predict system performance at non-ideal conditions. For example, PV modules are rated at standard test conditions, which include solar irradiance of 1000 W/m2 and cell temperature of 25°C; however, the PV system rarely operates at these conditions. Radiation levels change constantly throughout the day and the PV cell temperature can much higher than 25°C for areas in southwestern US. PV systems operate in these non-ideal conditions much of the time, so the model used to simulate PV performance must be able to adjust the system’s performance accordingly. The simulation model should calculate module temperature (using irradiation, wind speed, ambient temperature, and mounting structure) and adjust performance using a validated correction model. For PV systems, the performance of the inverter must be simulated for different operating scenarios. Inverter performance is typically described using an efficiency curve (efficiency versus percentage of nominal power). The curve expresses a combination of electrical and maximum power point tracking efficiency. This generalized performance indicator is satisfactory for initial performance estimates; however, inverter performance will change with different operating conditions and system voltages. Also, the efficiencies stated in the inverter curve are generalized for a typical module; the ability for the inverter to track the maximum power point of the system will depend on module technology, since different modules have more/less pronounced maximum power points depending on their current-voltage curves. An important step in the energy prediction process is accurately quantifying the environmental and system losses. These losses will greatly impact the performance of the system. While some of these are static losses, some change with time and others are dynamic. To produce accurate

estimates for system performance, these losses need to be assessed for the specific components of the system and the exact project location. Uncertainty

Each step in the energy production analysis increases the uncertainty of the end result; therefore, it is important to quantify this uncertainty at each step of the process to produce an accurate range of production values with associated probability levels. The main sources of uncertainty exist in the solar resource datasets used to create the TMY the simulation model’s algorithms, the solar plant estimated losses, and the tolerance in the manufacturer supplied power and electrical characteristics of the system components. The TMY uncertainty includes those from the NSRDB dataset, long-term reference station datum, and on-site measurement campaigns. On-site measurement campaign uncertainty includes that from the measurement equipment accuracy, installation, and maintenance protocols, proximity to actual project siting, and equipment calibration. The computer simulation model’s uncertainties include the translation of horizontal radiation to the plane of array, estimation of module temperature, and an accurate representation of module performance in non-ideal conditions. There are also varying uncertainties in estimating each of the environmental and system loss factors outlined above. The uncertainty of estimated system performance increases with each step of the solar resource and energy assessment process. All of the noted uncertainties are combined into an overall project uncertainty that is used to calculate various probability levels for the annual production of the system (P50, P75, P90, P90, and P99). In combination with the annual degradation of system performance, the probability levels are used to calculate annual energy estimates for each year of the project’s expected lifetime. Additionally, two table matrices of average net production on monthly and diurnal time scales is provided to demonstrate expected system performance throughout the year, allowing load matching and more detailed economic studies. Conducting a thorough solar production assessment requires the input of numerous key variables. The first variable is an accurate and representative solar resource assessment to create the TMY dataset with a solar resource measurement campaign as a key component. Imperfect data and models, complex cloud or solar climates, and other factors combine to create significant uncertainties in energy production estimates. A second variable is a carefully reviewed energy production estimate simulation model that takes into account system specifications, as well as

environmental and system losses. The third variable in the production assessment is a thorough understanding of the sources of uncertainty to develop the probability levels for the annual production of the system. Strategies to mitigate them are critical to providing well characterized energy production

predictions in support of overall risk quantification for financial participants in the project.

mapping, project engineering, performance evaluation, due diligence, and forecasting for both wind and solar energy projects.

Marie Schnitzer is the manager of government and solar programs at AWS Truewind, LLC. AWS Truewind’s core service areas include energy assessment,

AWS Truewind www.awstruewind.com

North American Clean Energy

solar energy

Driving Down the Cost of Solar Energy With use of an inclinometer By Mohit Abraham

oncentrated solar power (CSP) and concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) methodologies generate electricity by focusing a large amount of sunlight onto a much smaller area. To maximize efficiency, the focused sunlight needs to be accurately positioned. Being off by even a single degree could result in a significant drop in efficiency, and the biggest impact to the cost of delivering solar energy is efficiency. As with most systems, the accuracy is limited by the accuracy of the sensors used in that system. There are a number of different types of sensors that can be used in these systems. The following suggests how to maximize the accuracy of any system that tracks the elevation of the sun and how to do it cost-effectively using inclinometers. Concentrating solar systems overview

CSP and CPV systems track the sun throughout the day to increase the total energy output. Such systems can see as much as a 40% increase in output as compared to fixed position systems. The tracking systems can have either a single axis of rotation (parabolic trough and linear Fresnel mirror array), or two axes of rotation (central tower systems with heliostats, CPV, and dish/engine systems). So, although the systems with dual-axes trackers need to track the azimuth of the sun, both systems track the elevation.

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Inclinometers versus encoders

For tracking the elevation, several basic kinds of sensors can be used. If a motor is used, a rotary encoder would be a possible solution. If a linear actuator is used, then a linear encoder could be used. With both solutions, the control software requires an algorithm to translate the rotation of the motor or the distance extended by the actuator to the tilt angle of the mirror being controlled. There must also be checks in place to compensate for backlash or other irregularities in the system mechanics. The truer feedback device would be an inclinometer. The inclinometer directly measures the actual angle of tilt with respect to gravity. When it is mounted on the side of the mirror, the controller receives the actual position of the mirror. This angle is independent of the kind of actuator used in the system and any irregularities in the mechanics are transparent to the controller. The control software now becomes much more

straightforward. There is

also added confidence in the controller because the feed back signal is taken from the output of the control loop as opposed to from within the system.

Figure 1: Feedback path for inclinometer versus encoder

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Inclinometers: high accuracy & high resolution sensor

Inclinometers are typically either a mechanical or solid state device. Mechanical inclinometers have some sort of weighted pendulum to reference gravity so that when the inclinometer is tilted, the pendulum swings down and the amount it swings is the angle output of the sensor. This pendulum would have to be damped and would also have to be mounted with bearings. As a result of the friction in the bearings, there is a limit on how small a movement the inclinometer can detect. This effect is called stiction, and it restricts the resolution and accuracy of the inclinometer. Solid state inclinometers have no mechanical moving parts and do not have any errors due to stiction, which makes them ideal for solar trackers where frequent small changes are made. For example, US Digitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s T7 inclinometer was characterized for movements of 0.1Â°, and a cumulative distribution showed that the maximum DNL error is under 0.02Â°. With an incremental inclinometer, the output represents a change in angle; however, an absolute inclinometer reports the actual angle as the controller will know at all times the actual position of the mirror. Since the output is absolute, a home cycle at power up is not needed, even if the mirror was moved while power was off. The chart

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Figure 2: Accuracy of a typical T7 12 November / December 2009 Untitled-1 1

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below shows the measured accuracy for a typical T7 absolute inclinometer over a full 360° range. Low Cost of Installation

Another big advantage of inclinometers is the low cost of installation. There is no need for a shaft coupling to mount the device to a drive shaft. The T7 is hermetically sealed and can easily be mounted on the side of a parabolic trough or a mirror with four screws or bolts. This decreases material and labor cost during installation. With the zero point of the T7 inclinometer being set programmatically, the initial mounting position is not critical, cutting down on mounting time.

Commercially available rooftop MicroCSP system Sopogy, Inc. has introduced SopoFlare, the newest MicroCSP product in the world of Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) solutions. SopoFlare is the first commercially available CSP technology designed specifically for rooftop installations with a unique, easy mounting and fastening system. The technology is more robust than PV or CPV as SopoFlare is used to create steam, solar thermal air conditioning, drying, dehumidification, desalination, and hot water. In addition, SopoFlare utilizes Sopogy’s proprietary integrated tracker and storage solutions and is priced 30% cheaper than competing rooftop solar technologies. The system easily retrofits into existing facility reducing natural gas consumption, giving users an estimated three-year payback on installation. SopoFlare combines the revolutionary features and applications of Sopogy’s award winning SopoNova 4.0 concentrating solar thermal collector in a smaller, lightweight, environmentally rugged collector. SopoFlare’s compact design at eight feet long by 2.5 feet wide is perfect for quick and easy installation by local HVAC and Plumbing professionals. Sopogy, Inc. | www.sopogy.com

Conclusion

With continually increasing pressure on systems to maximize efficiency, the performance of solar trackers becomes ever more critical. As each system component is carefully chosen and scrutinized, choosing the right sensor is crucial. The advent of new solid state inclinometers provides control engineers with a technology breakthrough in performance, simplicity, and low cost. For solar trackers, absolute solid state inclinometers have the features needed to make that technology stand out. The combination of high accuracy, high reliability, ease of installation, and use makes the T7 the ideal inclinometer to drive down the cost of solar energy in concentrated solar power systems. US Digital | www.usdigital.com

Solar water heating system EZINC’s closed-loop FSEC and SRCC certified Solar Water Heating System works by water circulation-assisted by gravity. Hot water is less heavy than cold water, therefore, using these principles Ezinc has created a sophisticated flow design directing water though the solar collector and the external heat exchanger located inside the tank. Heat is then transferred to the potable water stored in the tank making it ready for use. This circulation process continues all day long, offering endless free hot water. The system has no moving parts and very little maintenance is required. Premium Solar www.presolarnet.com

North American Clean Energy

solar energy Renewable Energy in Europe & the US A study on the difference in incentive programs By Simon Geishussler

Comparing European and US incentive programs

Europe has taken a leadership role in the solar and green energy market, largely due to a comprehensive approach to

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government incentive programs that include feedin tariffs and building codes that encourage energy conservation. The US has lost much of the leadership position it once held, primarily as a result of an inconsistent and confused stimulus environment. In recent years, renewable energy has been promoted by various types of subsidy programs. On one hand, this stems from a general shift in the awareness of the public, which has been taken over from political leaders. On the other hand, it is clearly visible that countries who invest a lot of money in accelerating renewable energy deployment also succeed in creating a large number of attractive jobs. From the viewpoint of the homeowner that plans to install a solar or geothermal system, however, incentive and grant programs are a difficult jungle to navigate. Country, state, and communal programs make it virtually impossible to mention generally applicable numbers since subsidies can substantially contribute to the profitability of a solar system. Effect on the local and regional industry

Germany, Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest renewable energy market, has managed to combine incentives for renewable energy and energy efficiency into one program; whereas, most US programs concentrate on solar only, neglecting other important facets like energy efficiency or offering separate programs for efficient energy usage. Germany is based on the EEG, Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Renewable Energy Law, with the clear aim of reaching a target of 12.5% renewable energy by 2010 and 20% by 2020. The main background of these regulations is similar to those in the US: energy independency, sustainable energy policy, and support of technology innovation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How much is the rebate in my case?â&#x20AC;?

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Funded by the US Department of Energy, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency project was created in 1995, and is the most upto-date source for information regarding subsidies in the US. The DSIRE is based on four pillars of cost-effective solar policy: incentives, net metering, interconnection, and utility rates and policies. Their website (www.dsireusa.org) provides a comprehensive data for state, local, utility, and federal rebate programs, incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Planners and installers are taking an important role in advising homeowners in the early design stage, when it is important to estimate the solar energy generation or, in case of a geothermal system, the energy gained from the earth. Planners often rely on simulation tools (such as Vela Solarisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Polysun), as they can guarantee a certain quality level for their service and gain the trust of the customer. Solar thermal and energy efďŹ ciency

In lieu of tax credits, the Incentives Commercial Solar (ITC) Grants program was recently passed in the US with grants equivalent to 30% of the installed cost available through 2010. Germany, alternatively, has clear guidelines of basic subsidy per square meter of installed collector or 14

November / December 2009

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per total system installed. Depending on the system size and application type (solar hot water, space heating, solar electricity, process energy, solar cooling), different incentive rates are taken. If a homeowner replaces an old, inefficient furnace with a new, modulating condensing furnace, an extra bonus or subsidy is given. Another bonus may be applied for combination of solar with biomass (e.g. wood furnace) for special system efficiency, the combination of solar hot water and solar space heating, and innovation projects. Most importantly, building insulation is taken into account. For example, if a landlord reduces heat losses and respectively manages to reduce the heating or cooling energy demand (through improvements like better insulation or new windows) by 30%, extra bonuses are granted. Countrywide insulation standards like the German Passiv Haus, which define clear energy consumption values per square meters of living area, are standard. The US does not have such clear building standards. In Europe, as opposed to the US, an independent third party approves the improvements and solar gains to get a subsidy by the state. The use of simulation software is often required or strongly recommended to get the grants as the software reports contain all information and prove energy efficiency, solar gains, and other improvements. Feed-in tariffs and subsidies for PV systems

US net metering allows customers to store any excess electricity generated, usually in the form of a kilowatt hour (kWh) credit, on the grid for later use. This is available in 39 states, and each statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; policies vary dramatically. The best policies have been adopted by Colorado, Maryland, Florida, New Jersey, and Oregon according to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. Whereas in Europe most countries offer a fixed rate per kWh of energy fed onto the grid, called a feed-in tariff, most US states only allow energy to be stored on the grid, and no payment for excess energy is granted. A US homeowner, therefore, has no incentive to install large PV fields on the roof. German and French utility companies are required to guarantee a fixed rate per kWh. Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rates have consistently decreased over the years, with digression policy at 8% in the first two years after installation and 9% in the following years for installation up to 100KW. The German government indirectly sets the price for PV modules as planning bureaus and manufacturers offer PV installations for a value it is still profitable to the landlord. Effects on the work of contractors and the buying decision

The lack of beneficial incentive programs in the United States is at the core of why the country has fallen behind global leaders in energy efficiency programs:

ProďŹ ler for solar cell manufacturing KIC announces the SunKIC version 1.1.0, a thermal profiler that is specifically designed for the unique needs and challenges of the PV industry. The SunKIC benefits from several hardware and software innovations that help solar cell manufacturers acquire insightful data on their thermal processes. The compact form factor (19 millimeter/0.75" tall thermal shield) enables the SunKIC to accommodate the tight width and height restrictions of the metallization furnace tunnel clearance. And, the flexible, easy-to-use graphical navigation software makes for quick and convenient profiling.

A California PV contractor does not have any incentives to advise a homeowner to reduce electricity demand. The higher the electricity demand of the home, the larger the PV installation the contractor can sell, which is a direct effect of the net metering system not paying for extra electricity fed on the grid. It is also an effect of inadequate third party control of the system efficiency. Many California buildings are equipped with large PV fields, heating water with expensive, PV-produced energy. PV has an efficiency of 11% from sun to electricity; whereas, direct solar hot water heating through collectors has an efficiency of 40% to 80%. Heating water with PV-produced electricity is approximately four times as expensive as heating with solar collectors. This is the result of a lack of joint work between solar thermal and electric contractors, as well as the wrong incentive programs. Factors like building insulation and efficiency of boilers are equally important as solar energy. US grants often do not consider these crucial parts, resulting in systems that are not optimally designed. System design plays a big role when providing solar energy. Grants per system often do not guarantee solar gains. The best collector does not help when the system is poorly designed. A system simulation providing accurate system data for the particular site and guaranteeing solar gains is crucial, and should be considered before giving a subsidy. For the States to excel in renewable energy installations and programs, consumers, businesses, and organizations need better, more comprehensive incentives. European countries provide a good blueprint for engaging energy efficiency in a comprehensive way that the US should work towards. Simon Geishussler is the vice president of marketing for Velasolaris, creator of the Polysun family of site optimizations software products. Polysun is one of the most flexible and accurate software for the simulation and design of renewable energy systems, optimized for any particular site and structure.

Exceptionally powerful analytical software helps users study and improves upon all the important aspects of the time-temperature profile, and also accommodates numerous current and future needs. Additionally, it performs 20 readings per second and displays all relevant process data such as peak temperature, dwell time in various temperature ranges, slope gradients, and more. The SunKIC software also measures â&#x20AC;&#x153;the area under the curveâ&#x20AC;? at any given temperature level to further help users analyze the recorded profile. KIC | www.kicthermal.com

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Controllers for solar thermal systems

Solar- and differential temperature controllers

Pump stations and heat exchange modules

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Velasolaris | www.velasolaris.com North American Clean Energy

solar energy

Solar Assessment Districts By Warren Diven

alifornia has an abundance of sunshine, making solar energy a plausible energy generation option for many of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents and businesses. But with the cost of adding solar panels to a home or business at approximately $30,000 or more, unfortunately, not everyone who wants solar energy can afford it. Realizing that cost is a major factor when deciding whether to upgrade a property to be more energy efficient, the state passed a bill that helps with the affordability issues. Assembly Bill 811, passed in September 2008, gives all California cities and counties the ability to offer low-interest loans to homeowners and commercial property owners for energy efficient projects and solar panels. The loans are offered through â&#x20AC;&#x153;sustainable energy financing districtsâ&#x20AC;? (also called solar or energy assessment districts) that are established by cities and counties. These districts offer loan programs that are user-friendly in that property owners are not strapped with large down payments or high interest rates. The loan is secured by contract assessments levied on the ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; properties. Owners borrow money from a city or county participating in a contract assessment program to pay for their new energy efficient or energy generation products, and the long-term payment of the loans is linked to ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; property taxes. A participating city or county may issue

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bonds secured by the contract assessments to raise money for the loans, access general and re-development funds, or otherwise raise capital to fund such loans. AB 811 has many benefits for property owners not found in other forms of financing, such as home equity loans. These advantages include the fact that a contract assessment runs with the land and is not required to be paid off when a participating property is sold. There is little upfront cost for owners and, unlike a second mortgage or home equity loan, the process to receive approval of a loan secured by a contract assessment may require limited documentation. Because the loan payments are tied to property taxes, the interest portion of the loan payments is tax deductible. Some districts are devoted exclusively to one type of sustainable energy generation improvements while others will fund multiple types of projects, including solar, wind, or geothermal energy. Municipalities and counties throughout California are embracing the idea, and not only because it is a creative way for property owners to finance upgrades to their property. The programs also help cities and counties meet their mandated need to reduce greenhouse gases and be energy independent. The Sonoma County Energy Independence Program made its first loan in May 2009. A homeowner was granted a loan of $25,500 for a five kilowatt PV system. The county reports there are another $6 million of applications for loans pending. Under the program, commercial property owners are encouraged to â&#x20AC;&#x153;reduce operating and maintenance costs through investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy.â&#x20AC;? Palm Desert, in Southern California, was the first city in the state to establish such a district. Palm Desert city officials realized that their constituents needed help to finance private energy projects, which would help contribute to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five-year goal of cutting energy use by 30% by 2011. With a $1.5 million advance from the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s general fund, Palm Desertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AB 811 program allows residential or commercial real property owners to immediately enjoy a greatly reduced electric bill with no out-ofpocket expenses. Under Palm Desertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program, there is a minimum loan amount of $5,000, with no maximum limit. Property owners are not subject to credit ratings or a credit check. The interest rate is fixed at or near 7% and paid bi-annually (through assessment installment collected on the property tax bill). Loans can be used on a variety of energy efficient improvements, as well as the materials and labor required to properly install them. The process to establish an AB 811 program is multi-faceted and requires establishing the jurisdiction of the district, public hearings, designating the type of improvements to be financed, prioritizing the types of property owners who will receive financing, raising the capitol and marketing the program. Depending upon the staffing and budgetary resources, this process could take years. With the state facing unprecedented financial problems combined with the depressed real estate market, many municipalities may not place an AB 811 program at the top of their priority list. However, Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy shortage is not a short-term dilemma. AB 811 programs offer a significant resource to energy conservation problems that will face the Golden State for years to come. Warren Diven is a partner with the law firm of Best Best & Krieger. A lawyer for 26 years, Diven specializes in public finance law, acting as lead counsel in engagements involving all types of financings or finance issues and has advised a number of the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s municipal clients on the establishment of AB 811 contract assessment programs. Best Best & Krieger | www.bbklaw.com

Abatement system for solar cell & ﬂat panel manufacturing Edwards Limited has introduced the Spectra ZW abatement system for solar cell and flat panel manufacturing. The Spectra ZW is a single, compact system for abating the deposition and clean gases used in the high gas flow chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process steps in solar and flat panel manufacturing. A wet scrubbing system is integrated within the Spectra ZW for a total abatement/waste processing solution. The Spectra ZW is available as a standalone system or it can be integrated into the Zenith for a custom-built abatement and vacuum pump design that reduces footprint, installation and operation time, and provides added safety. The Spectra ZW is a very efficient total solution with maximum standard process gas flows exceeding 16 standard litres per minute of silane, 200 standard litres per minute of hydrogen, and 40 standard litres per minute of nitrogen trifluoride—all of which are commonly used materials during the CVD processing step in solar cell manufacturing.

Automated rotary turntable Shuttleworth, Inc. has introduced a new line of products for thin film and crystalline solar panel handling. Their new Rotary Turntable can be located anywhere in the manufacturing process where the product must be rotated to maintain proper orientation. In order to maximize the use of valuable floor space, process equipment may be arranged perpendicular to other equipment. This may require that the solar panel be rotated prior to entering the next process. Using Shuttleworth’s Rotary Turntable, the product is gently conveyed on a Shuttleworth, chain-driven Slip-Torque conveyor embedded within the unit that requires no operator assistance. The conveyor and product is then rotated 90°, 180°, 270°. Once rotated, the product is conveyed off the unit and the turntable returns to accept the next product. Up to two products may be safely rotated per minute. The turntable is powered by an AC motor-driven, rotary indexer. Shuttleworth, Inc. | www.shuttleworth.com

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Edwards Ltd. | www.edwardsvacuum.com

Accreditation for PV panels Intertek announced that its Lake Forest, California facility has successfully expanded its IECEE CB Scheme Testing Laboratory (CBTL) capabilities. The new capabilities include product safety and conformity, assessment testing and certification of PV modules to IEC Standards. This accreditation allows Intertek to conduct one set of tests that will provide manufacturers with market access to more than 40 countries that participate in the IECEE’s CB Scheme. This will save manufacturers money and reduce their overall time-to-market. The new accreditation further allows Intertek to test and issue IECEE CB Scheme Test Certificates to IEC 61730, 61215, 61646, 60891, and 60904 standards for Mono & Poly Crystalline and Thin Film Photovoltaic modules. Certification to these standards demonstrates acceptable safety and performance levels for long-term use of the modules. Intertek now delivers the broadest scope of testing and certification services to the PV industry.

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Intertek | www.intertek.com/solar North American Clean Energy

solar energy

Advances in Solar-charged Products By Steve Krausse

s designers of portable devices pack greater functionality into products, power management requirements have increased. Products require multiple supply rails, battery charging, and a variety of power management capabilities, all of which are implemented to maximize battery life. Portable power is the impetus for new battery developments, power management ICs, and energy harvesting techniques (vibration trans-

ducers, thermoelectrical converters, RF converters, and PV cells). Today, PV conversion of light into electricity remains the most effective way of harvesting ambient energy. Any portable products that typically use rechargeable batteries (lithium ion, NiCd) could have a solar cell added to their PC boards, and be charging constantly, when light is available. In each charging application, solar cells provide just enough current to hit the voltage limit—extending battery life, overcoming self-discharge problems, and providing an environmentally responsible solution. Many lowpower applications and devices spend the vast majority of their time in wait mode, only waking up periodically to perform a required function. Static displays and intermittent sensors that utilize a very small maintenance current are wellsuited to the use of solar cells to supplement battery power, recharge the battery between higher current operations, and extend battery life. Even the smallest remote sensing and data collection devices require some amount of current to operate even in standby mode. The need to provide small amounts of current over long periods has spawned new battery designs, and this work continues today. The other part of the power equation: providing additional power to maintain batteries as long as possible once the device is installed in the field. The use of solar technology is becoming an increasingly common source of energy and is an excellent choice for sensors used where light is available at regular intervals. Yet, for all of the various applications that could benefit from such energy harvesting, few manufacturers and designers have implemented solar charging for portable product batteries. Why? • Low efficiency. The efficiency of a PV cell is defined by the ratio of the electric energy generated by the cell and the energy of irradiance incident at the cell surface. Due to mobile operation and indoor use, light capture in PV-powered consumer products can be quite low. Further hampering the energy harvesting effort is that smaller electronics have limited space available to implant solar cells for enough light capture. • Inability to conform. PV cells must be lightweight, flexible, and capable of conforming to the design of the electronic device. Regular cells (typically designed in a package) cannot conform to curves; amorphous cells better conform to the design constraints of NACE1009 small consumer electronics. However, amorphous silicon’s efficiency is quite low (6% to 8%), and far below its chip competitor. • Voltage. The PV power source must reach battery voltage of 4v to 12v so as to ensure adequate recharging of bat-

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November / December 2009

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teries. Individual solar cells typically produce between 0.3v and 0.6v. Solar cells must be packaged in a series, such as the panels for homes, to produce usable energy amounts. Even when packaged in a series, each cell only produces energy equal to the output of the lowest power cell. If a single cell is shaded, it affects the entire series. Such requirements make solar cells inflexible for use inside cell phones, remote controls, and other small devices.

able battery. Widespread adoption of this technology may take time. First movers are integrating the chip into myriad consumer/portable products in test environments. Until full-scale integration meets with broad success, the solar industry sits at a crossroads utilizing advanced technology to produce solar chargers.

Stephen Krausse is the general manager for IXYS COLORADO (formerly Directed Energy, Inc)., a division of IXYS Corporation: IXYS). Since its inception in 1983, IXYS, a Silicon Valley power

semiconductor company, has been developing technology driven products to improve power conversion efficiency. IXYS Colorado | www.ixyscolorado.com

PV cell technology

So, what is the solution? Photovoltaic cells (monocrystalline, high-efficiency solar cells) that incorporate an enhanced light-trapping surface have the potential to generate the voltage necessary to power batteries in all types of applications. Manufactured with Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) process technology, a single chip could hold multiple solar cells in a series, so that a wide variety of voltages is possible. With 24 solar cells on a single chip, the semiconductor chip gives off 12v (when exposed to natural light), which is enough to power both rechargeable (nickel cadmium) and non-rechargeable (alkaline) batteries. Monocrystalline cells have a spectral sensitivity range from 300 nm (nearultraviolet) to 1100 nm (near-infrared), which includes visible light (400 to 700 nm). Due to this wide spectral range, they can be used in indoor and outdoor applications. Monocrystalline or singlecrystalline material does not contain impurities and, as such, the power conversion efficiency does not degrade over operating time. With a cell-efficiency of 17% to 20%, a solar chip provides the ability to extend run time, even in lowlight conditions, and increase battery life and run time on a small footprint—which can easily be accommodated in the design of portable products. Conventional rechargeable batteries can take several hours to recharge. Using a solar cell, the battery can be continuously trickle charged while under a light source. Low efficiency currently dictates the need for PV cells that harvest energy under a variety of lighting conditions; therefore, an engineer’s best bet is to use PV cells that respond to low-light levels. Large-scale grid integrations have made PV cells cheaper (economies of scale). Furthermore, cheaper raw materials and improved manufacturing processes are constantly pushing down prices for PV cells and panels. Engineers have sought to package solar cells right into the device in an unobtrusive way (either placed under a device’s display or cover). This integrated design would allow the mobile device to be charged from daylight without having a separate solar panel that needs to be plugged into it. Electricity generated from the cells would be fed to the device’s recharge-

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CENTROSOLAR is one of the leading publicly-traded solar companies in Europe. CENTROSOLAR has production facilities in Germany and Netherlands for its PV modules and components like solar glass and mounting systems. With over 60% of sales revenues from outside Germany, CENTROSOLAR is continuously globalizing its business with presence in 11 countries.

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solar energy Higher efﬁciency PV laminators Christopher Associates has announced the introduction of more energy efficient TDCZ Series PV module laminators from Orient Science & Technology. The TDCZ laminators have been redesigned to reduce thermal loss in the process even further, making them some of the most energy efficient systems in the industry. Using proprietary technology, electricity usage is reduced while process repeatability is greatly enhanced. Cycle times are also reduced. Orient’s Digital Network Control line management software allows users to remotely monitor process parameters on multiple lines, as well. Both semi and fully automatic systems are available in a wide range of configurations including multiple opening presses. Christopher Associates Inc. | www.christopherweb.com

Metallization paste for thin ﬁlm PV

Engineering and Manufacturing for the Renewable World

Solar Collectors Patriot’s Solar Collectors are available in sizes from 1.0m to 12m. Patriot incorporates precision stretch-formed panels in all of our Solar Collectors.

DuPont Microcircuit Materials recently announced the DuPont Solamet PV412 photovoltaic metallization paste, the latest in a line of silver conductor materials specifically developed for thin film PV technologies. Thin film PV is projected to be the fastest growing segment of the solar module industry, primarily because of its potential to reduce the cost of producing solar-derived energy. DuPont collaborated with Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc., developer of flexible thin film solar modules, as it developed Solamet PV412. DuPont Solamet PV412 PV metallization paste is designed for use on devices where a Transparent Conductive Oxide is utilized. It is ideal for use with Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS), Amorphous Silicon (a-Si) on flexible substrates, and Heterojunction with intrinsic thin layers (HIT) PV cells, and also suitable for any PV application where a low temperature curing conductor is required. Key features include fine line printing down to 80um resolution, long screen residence time for robust printer operation, low contact resistance, low gridline resistance, high adhesion to indium tin oxide, and strong compatibility with most transparent conductive oxides. DuPont Microcircuit Materials | http://photovoltaics.dupont.com

Temperature Proﬁling Systems

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Datapaq has introduced three new products for PV cell and module manufacturers. Datapaq designed the innovative SolarPaq systems to provide temperature-profiling solutions for the contact firing, anti-reflective coating, and lamination processes. These operations are all key to the quality and performance of the final PV cell and module. The SolarPaq system travels through the furnace or thermal process, measuring a time temperature profile directly from the product. The SolarPaq Anti-reflective Coating System provides temperature profiles from the solar cells as they pass through the silver nitride coating process. This is typically conducted using a plasma sputtering process and users can, now for the first time, monitor the cell temperature profile even with the plasma energized. Incorporating feedback from process engineers using the Datapaq profiling system in contact firing furnaces, the SolarPaq Contact Firing Cell Clamp is paired with custom-designed thermocouple probes to ensure accurate and repeatable measurements-the foundation for any process optimization. The SolarPaq Vacuum Lamination System is used to profile the final assembly stage of the solar modules. An all-new thermal barrier ensures that the data logger is protected from not only the heat of the lamination process, but also the external pressure that is applied.

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Datapaq | www.datapaq.com

OEM solar collectors

2.4m

3.8m

4.5m

7.5m

12.0m

Patriot has been manufacturing and distributing products for over 14 years. Patriot Solar Group is an excellent choice for companies looking to par tner with a U.S. manufacturer for their solar needs.

www.patriotsolargroup.com (01) 517.629.5990

KBB Kollektorbau GmbH has been producing solar thermal collectors in Berlin since 1993. This year, KBB completed the fourth generation of flat plate OEM-collectors, introducing new models of 2.5 m2 gross area. The K4 collector range comprises more than nine standard models of 2.1 and 2.5 m2, adapted to every application and available with Solar Keymark and SRCC certificates. K4 collectors are all equipped with highly selective laserwelded aluminium or copper absorbers. These absorbers are suspended into the frame by means of a patented technology that makes sure the absorber remains in its defined position during transport and all operation conditions. KBB put special attention onto the ventilation and watertightness of K4 collectors. A new ventilation and drainage concept volatilizes rapidly occasional morning condensates, even under high atmospheric humidity conditions. With their frame made of a single bended aluminium profile K4 collectors resist high snow as well as extreme wind loads. KBB Kollektorbau GmbH | www.kbb-solar.com

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

Yield management tool for CIGS composition Solar Metrology, a global provider of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis tools, expands its SMX XRF tool portfolio for film composition and thickness measurement of CIGS PV depositions with the addition of the System SMX-ISI. Solar Metrology’s System SMX-ISI is an in-situ xray fluorescence (XRF) metrology tool platform that provides composition and thickness measurements for thin film solar PV metal film stacks on flexible roll to roll substrates such as stainless steel, aluminum, and polyimide, or rigid substrates such as float glass. Typical measurement applications include Mo thickness and all CIGS combinations (including all CIG alloys and/or film combinations and final CIGS formulations). SMX-ISI is fast, flexible and easily integrated into any vacuum deposition tool or vacuum process station or point of a vacuum process line. SMX-ISI utilizes X-ray fluorescence, an enabling technology for CIGS manufacture, that delivers yield management and yield improvement by allowing in-situ process control. The SMX-ISI tool Platform does not affect your process since all SMX-ISI tool components reside outside of vacuum for optimum performance and serviceability. Solar Metrology | www.solarmetrology.com

THE NEXT BIG THING! Ground-mount racking system Baja Construction, specializing in steel design, engineering, and installation of carports and shade structures since 1981, has gained significant market share with solar developers and integrators with its delivery of a cost-effective and reliable ground-mount racking solution. Engineered from high-tensile, cold-rolled steel, Baja’s structures are designed to accommodate span and mandated snow/wind loads. Also, purlins and footings are engineered to accommodate any PV panel and any soil condition for optimal output and energy production.

Introducing the fastest, strongest, most revolutionary ground mount solution EVER!

Baja Construction Co. Inc. www.bajacarports.com

Imagine BIG Possibilities.

Solar panels for portable charging applications The Konarka Power Plastic 20 Series includes the Power Plastic 120 (1-watt), Power Plastic 320 (3-watt), and Power Plastic 620 (7-watt) products. The panels vary in size and are available with and without integrated connectors, ready to be used or integrated into a manufacturer’s device or product. Commercial products incorporating Konarka Power Plastic 20 Series material, which include battery chargers for lighting, mobile phones, and devices, carry bags and café umbrellas will be available through the company’s qualified resellers and partners program. These solar panels are being made available for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2009. Konarka Technologies, Inc. www.konarka.com

The ISYS Ground Mount solution is the ﬁrst modular framing system utilizing modern techniques for large scale utility and commercial projects. Designed to deliver the most cost effective system, the ISYS Ground Mount has a total installed cost as low as $0.40 per watt with an industry leading installation rate of more than 10 modules per man-hour.

Size compared to

www.unirac.com

Bright Thinking in Solar

North American Clean Energy

solar energy Solar assessment products 3TIER unveiled a first-in-class suite of solar assessment products that give utility scale developers a higher degree of certainty in the availability of solar resources, and a more complete picture of the production potential of their projects. The products provide a 10+ year irradiance dataset, calibrated to observational data if available, and include a wind and temperature climatology to give developers a comprehensive, long-term outlook of their operating environment. The products are based on 3TIER’s 10+ year solar irradiance dataset, the most advanced, high-resolution solar irradiance dataset ever created. They also leverage 3TIER’s expertise in numerical weather prediction (NWP) modeling, a capability the company has developed as an innovator in wind energy assessment and forecasting. The new products feature a complete wind and temperature time-series, as well as the option of using observational data to correct biases in the solar irradiance dataset, providing a full 10-year irradiance time-series.

Fast-ﬁring furnace for solar power Despatch Industries, a process technology provider for the solar industry, has announced that SERIS (Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore) will be the first installation of Despatch’s new, fast-firing furnace: the UltraFlex with Microzone Technology. The UltraFlex UltraF aF Fle lex ex is is a sta state-of-the-art ttaattee-of-the-art dryer an tat and firing furnace designed to provide next generation n capabilities in performance performance, profile flexibility, and reduced cost of ownership. Despatch also developed new, custom lamps for the UltraFlex that operate at optimal levels for extended life and enable maximum absorption of energy into each cell. The company’s Microzone Technology provides customers with infinite profile flexibility, independent of belt speed. Microzone lamps are configured to create the sharp divisions and tight control necessary to adapt to the industry’s ever-changing cell architectures, pastes, and selective emitters. Despatch Industries www.despatch.com | www.seris.sg

Low-maintenance single axis tracker

3TIER | www.3tier.com | http://firstlook.3tier.com/solar

Caleffi ’s new Solar Pump Station is designed for commercially sized projects requiring up to 10 gpm and pumping power up to 30 feet of head. These Caleffi high head/high flow solar pump stations are pre-assembled and leak-tested with dual line flow and return connection, a powerful threespeed pump, adjustable flow meter, air vent, shutoff valves, check valves, safety relief valve, expansion tank connection port, fill and purge valves, complete with one-inch male union half-threaded connections. Fittings are available to connect SolarFlex insulated stainless steel piping or copper pipe.

Thompson Technology Industries (TTi) has developed a new generation of the Sunseeker Single Axis tracker. This new generation allows for increased height of the system and mounting on uneven surfaces while saving 10% to 15% on installation and maintenance costs. This tracker breaks TTi’s previous standards in the industry with the ability to drive even more panels in a slightly increased “footprint” over the previous generation. Output is increased without sacrificing energy production. With even fewer motors, operation and maintenance are lower and the tracker does not require field welding for installation. Savings are realized by the option to pile drive the support posts, which are less expensive and quicker to install. The tracker now has the advantage that allows it to increase the height to 78" and still meet a wind speed of 90mph with the panels at 45°. The tracker delivers faster installation than traditional cement foundations and I-beams now come standard with purchase and are priced into the tracker system cost.

Calefﬁ | www.caleffi.us

Thompson Technology Industries | www.ttisolar.com

Solar pump stations for commercial solar water heating

Your Solution in Mounting Products Solar

H2O

Conduit

HVAC

Solar On

Custom

The ALL-IN-ONE Waterproof Flashing & Mount For Engineers & Installers who DEMAND: Code Compliance 50 Year Lifespan Labor Savings No Roof Cutting NEW Works with all Racks Meets NRCA’S Standards & Best Practices

FLAT TILE

COMPOSITION

High-performance renewable energy technologies Samlex Solar, a division of Samlex America Inc., is a diversified high-technology company manufacturing and distributing renewable energy products including inverters, battery chargers, charge controllers, dc-dc converters, and solar panels. Known for having a significant and in-depth line of highperformance technologies, Samlex is one of North America’s fastest growing suppliers of alternative energy products. With locations in Canada, the US, and Europe, Samlex Solar is able to reduce lead times and provide better shipping options to domestic and global clients.

SHAKE

925-687-6686

www.quickmountpv.com Ask for it by name at your PV distributor 22

November / December 2009

Solar Greening by Design

Samlex Solar, a division of Samlex America Inc. www.samlexsolar.com

nacleanenergy.com Solar Destination MAR APR.indd 1

4/26/09 7:57 PM

Corrosion-resistant diaphragm valves

I-V curve tracker

Asahi/America has recently expanded their product offering to include new dimensions of the Type-343 Zero Dead Leg (ZDL) 3-Way Valve for Purad PVDF, PolyPure PP-natural and PP-Pure pigmented PP. Offered in more than 45 different configurations, these corrosion-resistant diaphragm valves are now available in 40mm x 40mm (11/4" x 1-1/4") and 50mm x 50mm (1-1/2" x 1-1/2") sizes. Pigmented and natural polypropylene T-343 valves are now available in a dozen configurations each, which include the new 25mm x 25mm (3/4" x 3/4") and 25mm x 20mm (3/4" x 1/2") sizes. Asahi T-343 3-way and related 2-way T-342 valves have proven results even in the most demanding environment. Designed for high temperatures, Purad PVDF diaphragm valves can operate up to 285°F (140°C). Offering EPDM backed PTFE, EPDM, and FKM diaphragms in Purad PVDF, PolyPure PPn, and PP-Pure pigmented PP, these valves are ideally suited for use with aggressive chemicals and high purity applications including PV and semiconductor wafer handling and laboratory water systems. Connection methods include IR or butt welding as well as flanged, true union, and custom connections such as tri-clamp or flare fittings.

Schenk Vision is a total-solution provider of metrology systems for PV thin-film modules worldwide. “Indirect metrology tests” such as, the measurement of pinhole density, layer thickness, or haze monitoring, enables manufacturers to evaluate the module quality of a solar panel and gives an early warning as soon as a process step no longer meets the preset tolerances. Yet, these indirect measurements alone cannot make a prediction about the final electrical efficiency of a solar panel. As today’s sun simulators or flashers are installed only at the very end of the production line, when low-quality modules have already gone through expensive back-end processing. Schenk has developed a unique innovation that is complimentary to flashers but enables an early feedback on the module efficiency. With the I-V Curve Tracer, a brand new measurement innovation, customers can evaluate and correlate metrology data from optical and electrical measurements along the line, and perceive an early feedback and a comprehensive overview of the entire manufacturing process. This global evaluation, uniquely offered by Schenk, reveals the real potential for process optimization.

Asahi/America, Inc. | www.asahi-america.com

Schenk Vision | www.schenkvision.com

Velocity MW solar power plants SOLON’s standardized 1 MW Solar Power Plants are designed to maximize kWh with the fastest realization of grid connected solar electricity. Features are as follows: Large SOLON 375 W solar modules; fixed tilt or single axis tracking; standardized 1 MW cluster design; centralized, co-located power conversion; streamlined installation; advanced SCADA system for remote monitoring and maximizing uptime; reduced time for permitting and installation, as well as easy scalability to 100 MW+. SOLON | www.solon.com

DC-to-medium voltage platform for MW-scale projects PV Powered, Inc. announces PowerVault, a turn-key and fully customizable DC-to-medium voltage platform that provides significant cost savings in multi-megawatt solar installations. PowerVault is a fully engineered and factory assembled inverter power plant with DC inputs on one side and medium voltage outputs on the other. The inverters, switchboard, and monitoring system are housed in an enclosure that is listed to UL QRNZ for walk-in electrical equipment. The medium voltage transformer with a cost-saving integrated loop feed switch is mounted on the outdoor portion of the skid. The conduit-ready piermount configuration saves installation time and eliminates tens-of-thousands of dollars in engineering design, site preparation, and installation costs for commercial and utility customers. The PowerVault platform offers a variety of configurations designed around the 97% efficient PVP260kW inverter. With the benefit of a 20-year operating life and the highest inverter reliability in the industry, this MW-scale power plant offers the reliability and redundancy needed to ensure uptime in large solar power systems. PV Powered, Inc. www.pvpowered.com

Capturing the power of the sun? Naturally. The pioneering spirit of ABB is focused on the future of our customers. With more than 100 years of experience in power generation and the largest installed base in the industry, ABB is a partner you can rely on to deliver systems that outperform any others in the global market today. Our comprehensive portfolio of fully integrated automation, instrumentation, control and electrical systems help you optimize unit performance, improve reliability, reduce generation costs and lower environmental impact. Our leading edge technology will keep your solar trackers and collectors operating at peak efﬁciency. From solar ﬁeld to grid connection, ABB’s local expertise and global presence assures you of optimal results – helping secure a bright future for the next generation. www.abb.com/powergeneration ABB Inc. 3450 Harvester Road Burlington, Ontario Canada L7N 3W5 E-mail: pspmarketing@us.abb.com

North American Clean Energy

solar energy Solar power monitoring & site management services

Architectonically integrated PV

The new ArgusON Solar Power Manager (SPM) solution combines solar power monitoring and site management services for increased performance, efficiency, and convenience. Commercial PV solar power systems require continuous monitoring and overall site management to maintain peak power production and meet expected ROI performance. ArgusON SPM is a single solution offering commercial system integrators and owners active monitoring and proactive site management services including: an automated data collection and alarming solution; automated data analysis tools; and, skilled technical resources to interpret and act upon the data analysis and alarms. For Systems Integrators, the ArgusON SPM solution offers simplified installation and operation; easy to understand status updates; and, a 24/7/365 National Operations Center (NOC) providing expert technical support and trouble ticketing. Other benefits to systems integrators should include reduced cost and aggravation, as well as clear, timely, and useful performance information to manage site visits more efficiently.

System Photonics presents the first PV system that seamlessly integrates into the architecture, developed from the combination of a ceramic sheet with PV cells. This structural innovation consists of a thin ceramic substrate (backsheet), with 3mm thickness, onto which PV cells are directly laminated using an innovative encapsulant supplied by DuPont—five times harder and 100 times more resistant than the traditional ones. The combination of these elements has provides for a frameless product that is highly functional and aesthetically pleasing; it is ideal for innovative and architectonically integrated applications. The versatility of the product allows it to be used as coverings for buildings (ROOF Collection), ventilated façades (SKIN Collection), and complex architectural projects, also leaving the user the possibility to select a preferred color. A unique and distinctive tract is the resistance of these sheets, which allows them to be walked upon, easing assembly and maintenance of the PV surfaces themselves. The profile is completed by the modularity, impermeability, and complete recyclability of the materials used, which makes the product a winning choice due to the environmental sustainability and the safeguarding of the appearances of buildings.

ArgusON | www.arguson.com

System Photonics | www.system-photonics.com

Cooling from the Sun?

Yes.

PV design software tool Solmetric Corporation has released the Solmetric PV Designer, a software tool that enables solar PV designers to optimize module layout and energy production in a partially shaded environment. The software processes shade measurements from the Solmetric SunEye, a handheld electronic instrument, and enables module by module shade calculations even if only the corners of the array or roof are measured. It then calculates hourly AC kWh production. In addition, the software estimates the improvements in production by implementing SolarMagic power optimizers from National Semiconductor. PV Designer uses shade data collected for the installation site and enables the solar system designer to experiment with different array configurations to find the optimal design. The tool incorporates an extensive database of modules and inverters with complete specifications including dimensions. Designers can visualize shade and insolation over the array or roof area and compare different hardware, different module layouts, and with and without SolarMagic power optimizers. Calculations are based on the string current-voltage (IV) characteristics including the effects of partial shading. The system estimates the resultant energy production, and up to four design scenarios can be compared side by side. Solmetric Corporation | www.solmetric.com

Solar tracking systems

Made possible by Sopogy’s patented technology. Visit us online at www.sopogy.com for more information.

Solar Air Conditioning (866) 767-6491 (866-Sopogy1) · www.sopogy.com 24

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

DEGERenergie has developed the first massmarketable tracking system in the world that supports the use of concentrating technology (CT). The first DEGERtraker 3000CT and 5000CT models will be available from serial production early 2010, and have a tracking accuracy of 0.1°. The high-precision tracking systems are the product of one-and-ahalf years of research and development. They achieve a tracking precision of 0.03° in controlled laboratory conditions, the serial models DEGERtraker 3000CT and 5000CT achieve a 0.1° precision rate and are, therefore, suitable for being used with concentrating technology. The tracking system’s energy management has also been optimized. The outcome is that the new DEGERtrakers realign the integrated solar modules to the sun’s position every ten seconds. That means the systems consume significantly less energy for tracking then the previously known highly accurate systems that have motors in constant operation. DEGERenergie | www.degerenergie.com

WIND BUYERS GUIDE

WIND BUYERS GUIDE DIRECTORY

BLADE/TOWER MANUFACTURER

DMI Industries, Inc. For over thirty years, DMI Industries has built a solid reputation in heavy steel manufacturing and is now recognized as one of the North American leaders in wind towers. DMI is a trusted partner to many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top wind turbine manufacturers because they can rely on DMI for a best-in-class product built to their exact speciďŹ cations, delivered on time, every time. With strategically located factories in North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Ontario, DMI has unmatched reach through easy access to road, rail, or barge. DMI towers support wind turbines all across North America and by continuing to invest in new technologies and R&D, they are committed to meeting the changing demands of wind energy as it advances into the future. www.windtowers.com

BLADE / TOWER MANUFACTURER COMPONENT SUPPLIER CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS & SERVICES CONSULTING SERVICES CONTRACT MANUFACTURING ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LARGE WIND TURBINE MFG (over 100 kW) OPERATIONS and MAINTENANCE SAFETY SMALL WIND TURBINE MFG (Under 100 kW) SOFTWARE SUPPLIER TRANSMISSIONS TRANSPORTATION

Wheelabrator Manual Airblast Rooms are an essential product in the extensive line of environmentally sound blast systems offered by Wheelabrator. Airblast rooms are available with a variety of options to meet the speciďŹ c needs of customers within any given sector, in particular the wind power industry. Rooms are engineered to work within existing facility sites and meet all material handling requirements, ensuring the highest level of reliability, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. The size of sections used in manufacturing wind towers present great challenges for surface preparation. As corrosion protection is of paramount importance, the large, plate steel fabrications that form the tower sections must be cleaned, proďŹ led, primed, and painted before ďŹ nal assembly. www.wheelabratorgroup.com

WIND ASSESSMENT / FORECASTING

COMPONENT SUPPLIER

CENTA Corporation CENTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest development in torque limiting slip systems now positions the slip unit to the middle section of the shaft. By relocating the slip function, manufacturing tolerances at the generator shaft no longer cause variations in the slip torque, resulting in improved accuracy. Another advantage of the new design is that the slip system is made to be pre-mounted as a complete unit. The maximum torque is set on a certiďŹ ed test bench according to the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements and documented in a test report, eliminating the need for any on-site adjustments. The low-maintenance slip system is also designed to exceed requirements for both short circuit and E-stop requirements. Depending on the size, a torque range of up to 150 kNm is covered. www.centa.info

FIBOX Enclosures FIBOX is a global manufacturer of corrosion-resistant plastic enclosures for the electronic and electrical industry. NEMA 4X enclosures protect products from hostile environments. FIBOX offers over 1000 off-the-shelf sizes with numerous accessories. www.fiboxusa.com

OTHER

When Measurements Matter What percentage of error can you afford?

Th success of your investments can ride on the accuracy of your measurements. With 35 years of proven The fieeld experience, unmatched reliability, and exceptional measurement quality, you can trust Campbell Sccientific data acquisition systems when your measurements matter.

November / December 2009

8JOE

Solar

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â&#x2C6;&#x2020; 'JOE PVU NPSF

435.750.1880 www.campbellsci.com/renewables

Gexpro Services Gexpro Services (a Rexel Company / +$20B revenue) is a global supply chain provider, offering the wind market most of the components required for wind turbine production. Their main customers are wind turbine, nacelle, hub, blade, and tower manufacturers. Their unique product offering includes fasteners/hardware, electrical and mechanical/fabricated parts. Leverage the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical resources to identify value engineering projects to increase proďŹ tability. Utilize their global sourcing and quality infrastructure to ensure components are received on time, matching quality speciďŹ cations, to any part of the world. Also, take advantage of their Inventory Management programs to identify inventory kitting opportunities and reduce working capital expenses. Gexpro Services has seven-plus years of experience in the wind industry and offers world-class supply chain solutions. www.gexproservices.com

Lectra Four out of ďŹ ve blade manufacturers choose Lectraâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;providing a complete wind solution dedicated to automating blade development and production. Lectra: radically cuts blade production time; reduces labor costs, human errors, and injuries; improves blade quality; reduces material consumption through CAD/CAM integration; and, automates blade pattern development and cutting processes. Lectraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VectorTechTex FX Extended is speciďŹ cally designed to meet the needs of companies cutting very long pieces of composite materials, such as wind turbine and helicopter blades. The VectorTechTex FX Extended cutter offers a further increase in productivity of up to 20% when cutting long pieces. Lectra offers integrated technology solutions that automate, streamline, and accelerate product design, development and manufacturing processes for soft goods industries. www.lectra.com

2010 wind buyers guide

Moog Industrial Group Moog designs and manufactures highperformance motion control solutions for the wind energy market. Moog Industrial Group is part of Moog Inc., with sales of USD 1.9 billion FY08. Highlights of Moog motion control solutions for wind turbines includeâ&#x20AC;ŚElectric Blade Pitch Control: PITCHmaster Servocontroller & Electric Servoactuator with optimized design for increased uptime; Hydraulic Blade Pitch Control: Innovative Axis Control Servovalve & hydraulic actuator designed with fail-safe functionality for highest safety; Rotor Monitoring: Fiber-optic remote monitoring system enables higher uptime through proactive, preventative maintenance; and, Power and Data Transmission: Long-lasting ďŹ ber brush slip rings transfer electric current between hub and nacelle ensuring high performance. www.moog.com/wind

Schunk Graphite Technology For over 95 years, Schunk Graphite Technology has been making carbon brushes to enhance the performance of both generators and motors. Since then, the company has added brushholders, shaft grounding systems, lightning protection systems, ďŹ&#x201A;exible current connectors, and slip rings to support wind energy. They offer expert technical representation by their own employees distributed across North America, as well as the most popular components being stocked at their centrally located manufacturing site in Wisconsin. Call them to ask how they can help keep those turbines running. www.schunkgraphite.com

Titan Titan is a provider of bolting solutions to the wind energy world. Titan manufactures and supplies hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric torque wrenches, as well as hydraulic bolt tensioners including double stacked and foundation tensioners for all WIND OEM conďŹ gurations. Custom engineered solutions and manufacturer-speciďŹ c bolting tool packages are available. Titan offers outstanding service, innovative engineering support, and leading-edge technologies, all with honesty, integrity, and an uncompromised commitment to be the best for the beneďŹ t of customers, shareholders, employees, dealers, and representatives. www.titanti.com

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November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

AVX Corporation AVX Corporation, a manufacturer of advanced passive components and connectors, has developed a medium power capacitor series that features highfrequency operation with the lowest stray inductance of any product on the market. Designated as FFVS Series, the medium power capacitors are designed for applications that require high-frequency ripple (>100kHz) DC ďŹ ltering for induction heating and inductance of less than 10nH on certain models. The FFVS Series includes a broad offering of voltage and capacitance values. The series includes voltage ranges from 600V (with available capacitance ratings of 22ÎźF, 90ÎźF, 140ÎźF and 195ÎźF) to 1900V (with available capacitance ratings of 14ÎźF, 22ÎźF & 32ÎźF). The FFVS Series capacitors are ultra reliable with an extended operating life due to the dry polypropylene dielectric technology feature. www.avx.com

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Anderson Controls Incorporated Anderson Controls Incorporated specializes in providing automation controls including but not limited to the ďŹ elds of wind, solar, process control, security, alarming, monitoring/control of temperature, differential pressure, level, position, converters, ďŹ&#x201A;ow, sensors, timers, and counters. They provide wireless and satellite control for many applications including SCADA ready Sub Station Transformer Temperature monitoring and control. They also have all of the Absolute/Incremental Encoders and Sensors needed for wind and solar including Blade Strain Sensors. Anderson Controlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 29 years in the business is supported by companies such as Dynapar, NorthStar, ACURO, Hengstler, Harowe, Baumer, Weschler Instruments, Smar, Stahl, and others. www.andersoncontrol.com

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Columbus McKinnon Columbus McKinnon is a manufacturer of hoist and rigging products. In manufacturing, they help maximize space, improve ergonomics, and optimize material ďŹ&#x201A;ow. For transport of components, they design and manufacture transportation tie-downs. For efďŹ cient installations and maintenance, they offer a full line of hoists and below the hook attachments. Columbus McKinnon offers training courses to promote safe use of hoists, rigging, and cranes. Their long history of designing innovative products and manufacturing them to the highest quality standards helps get the job done safely and on time. www.cmworks.com

RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR A COMPLEX WORLD Wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, and bioenergyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;these sources offer clean and sustainable alternatives to help meet the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rising energy demands. Tetra Tech supports energy projects from the earliest site investigation through operations and maintenance, with expertise in facilities siting, environmental studies, permitting, engineering design, and construction, including EPC and BOP. Tetra Tech provides clear solutions in consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services worldwide.

www.tetratech.com

www.wardrop.com

A TETRA TECH COMPANY

2010 wind buyers guide

Danfoss, Inc. Danfoss, Inc.’s MBS 3000 takes pressure transmitters to new heights. Controlling the pressure in critical applications in wind turbines is of great importance. The Danfoss range of compact pressure transmitters

offers reliable, accurate measurement at all times, ensuring that even the slightest drop or increase in pressure is detected immediately. The MBS 3000 pressure transmitter series has been developed for use in harsh industrial environments and offers reliable and accurate pressure measurement—even during the most violent storms. In systems with harsh medium inﬂuences like cavitation, liquid hammer or pressure peaks, the transmitter is available with an integrated pulse snubber for protection. www.danfoss.us/ia

DEHN Inc. DEHN, a supplier of lightning and surge protection, provides SPD products to speciﬁcally protect wind generators and PV systems against the effects of lightning and utility generated transients. Products are DIN rail mounted, rated for surge and lightning rated discharge currents, and are applicable for power systems applications, as well as for measurement and control, and instrumentation and communications systems. www.dehn-usa.com

Donaldson Company, Inc. Donaldson Company, Inc., a manufacturer of innovative filtration solutions, has engineered a revolutionary new gearbox filter to improve wind turbine performance. Gearbox wear and malfunction are two of the primary concerns in wind turbine maintenance. Donaldson’s gearbox filter helps reduce those maintenance concerns, saving time and money. It uses a new patented breakthrough in filter media, Synteq XP. Synteq XP delivers absolute level efficiencies with contaminant-holding capacities beyond that of competitive filters. This provides greater protection against wear, improving overall wind turbine performance and productivity. Donaldson is a complete filtration solutions provider offering high-performance replacement elements for yaw, pitch, and brake control systems, plus offline and kidney loop systems designed to help remove particulate and water contamination. www.donaldson.com/en/ih

ERICO ERICO has long been a major participant in the wind industry in terms of grounding systems, including CADWELD exothermic connections and ERITECH grounding products. And, with products installed and operational on more than 10,000 blades globally, ERICO is one of the largest manufacturers of wind turbine lightning protection products in the world. ERICO continues to grow because of its ability to consistently deliver quality products on time and to multiple global locations. For more information on ERICO’s full line of products for the wind industry, visit the company website. www.erico.com

November / December 2009

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Hailo LLC Hailo LLC is a supplier of all tower internals, including service lifts, ladders with fall arresting system, platforms, brackets, climbassists, etc. They offer “German engineering—Made in the USA.” www.hailo.us

Hexagon Metrology Inc. Hexagon Metrology’s new Leitz PMM-G gantry CMM is used for high-precision inspection of wind power gears, gear segments, gear racks, and geared shafts of up to 5,000mm in diameter. The machine does not require a rotary table, aiding part loading and unloading, and allowing maximum part weight of 15 tons. The PMM-G is not a single purpose station just for gears, but a fully capable coordinate measuring machine that can be used to inspect large machined assemblies, such as gear boxes. Available in 55 standard sizes ranging from 3000 x 2000 x 1200mm to 7000 x 4000 x 3000mm. Gear types inspected include cyclindrical, straight, spiral, bevel & crown gears. All major standards are available, including DIN, ISO, AGMA, ANSI, JIS, and CNOMO. www.hexagonmetrology.us

ILSCO SureCrimp copper compression connectors from ILSCO reduce inventory requirements. The connectors accept multiple conductor classes, including fine stranded and building wire. UL Listed and CSA certified with ILSCO’s and major competitor’s compression tools. Range taking when installed with approved tools and dies. Manufactured from high-strength, seamless copper tubing and electrotin plated, which offers corrosion resistance and improved connector longevity. Circumferential dies produce strong, long-lasting crimps with a tight crimp profile for greater pull-out strength. The increased contact area reduces resistance and eliminates the potential for flash. www.ilsco.com

Clean Energy: Driving Schedules for Project Success We are Ecology and Environment, Inc. Working Together, Finding SolutionsSM With a staff reflecting 85 specialties, E & E provides the multidisciplinary professional and technical services needed to help clients meet environmental regulatory requirements and to get their projects up and running in the shortest possible time.

From more than 30 U.S. offices plus numerous international affiliates, we are applying the global energy infrastructure experience gained since our inception in 1970, assisting developers of wind, solar, geothermal, hydro, biomass and electric transmission grids, to meet the world’s clean energy needs.

Today, E & E is cited as one of the fastest-growing small public companies by Fortune Small Business and is listed in Engineering News-Record’s Top 100 Green Design Firms. Our global headquarters, located just outside of Buffalo, N.Y., is one of the oldest LEED® Platinum existing buildings in the world. Our shares trade on NASDAQ under the symbol “EEI.” Visit us at www.ene.com.

ggressive schedules are driving project success as never before. Whether it’s a power purchase agreement to support renewable portfolio standards, incentives related to stimulus spending, or increased consumer demand for clean energy, schedule is key to project success. By getting the green light for your environmental permits, Ecology and Environment, Inc. (E & E) can help you to speed your energy to market. We work with our clients to develop realistic project schedules and then brainstorm strategies to slash time from them. We anticipate potential project delays and proactively resolve issues to overcome roadblocks, reduce risk and keep your projects moving. E & E works hand in hand with developers of wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, hydrogen, biomass, and other sustainable forms of energy. We use market-proven environmental expertise to engage stakeholders, including negotiations with regulatory agencies, by finding common ground in the pursuit of clean energy.

Get Your Green Light Faster

E&E

with

.....by driving schedules for project success.

Finding the Right Site

Siting: E & E's environmental planning teams perform all required studies for avian/bat and other sensitive species, terrestrial and aquatic/wetland habitat, cultural resources, land use, socioeconomics, noise, and radar.

Environmental Planning and Studies Our scientists and engineers conduct the studies needed to plan for and site energy infrastructure in environmentally and economically sustainable ways.

Permitting: By working strategically, E & E often shortens the permitting process to reduce costs.

Building Project Consensus Comprehensive Stakeholder Consultation Services Whether they are government regulators, nongovernmental organizations, nearby landowners, affected communities, or other members of the public, we engage stakeholders early and often in the process. We help our clients convey key project messages clearly and consistently.

Saving Time and Money Strategies for Streamlined Permit Acquisition and Environmental Compliance E & E works with client design teams and obtains all permits required to construct and operate energy projects. We also help our clients to implement systems that maintain compliance and improve environmental performance during project operations—saving them time and money.

Leveraging Technology for Bottom Line Results State-of-the-Art Data Management Techniques Our geospacial experts, programmers, and environmental scientists use cutting-edge technology to more efficiently and reliably manage project information. Our cost-effective corridor modeling, automated environmental reporting, and other innovative data management techniques allow our clients to make more informed project decisions...faster.

Stakeholder Engagement: E & E reduces risk by building consensus through public outreach and agency consultation.

Wind Mark Schmitt (716) 684-8060 mschmitt@ene.com Solar Nick Figone (415) 981-2811 nfigone@ene.com Geothermal David McIntyre (619) 696-0578 dmcintyre@ene.com Biomass/Waste-to-Energy Robert Santa Maria (716) 684-8060 rsantamaria@ene.com Hydro Frank Groznik (503) 248-5600 fgroznik@ene.com Energy Efficiency Mark Casell, LEED-AP (716) 684-8060 mcasell@ene.com Transmission Jim Thornton (503) 248-5600 Jthornton@ene.com

ecology and environment, inc. International Specialists in the Environment

www.ene.com

2010 wind buyers guide

ITT Interconnect Solutions ITT Interconnect Solutions provides wind and solar power devices with a range of advanced connector designs used to link devices including the genera-

tor, motor, and fuel cells. Utilizing highly conductive materials such as tellurium and full metal designs with shielding for each pin and within the connector housing, ITT’s connectors maintain signal integrity, allowing for maximum power transmission. ITT also incorporates touch-proof designs into its wind and solar power connectors, like its circular APD Series, eliminating the potential for human shock. To withstand harsh environments, ITT’s wind power connectors are sealed to IP67/IP68 requirements. www.ittcannon.com

House Calls FOR

Lapp USA Lapp introduces its highest-performance UL-listed tray cable, OLFLEX FORTIS. This product meets UL1277 tray cable requirements, as well as providing oil resistance and cold-temperature performance. It is also rated as a CSA tray cable (CSA C22.2 No. 230). OLFLEX FORTIS meets UL’s OIL RES I & II, as well as UL AWM 21098, allowing application in environments with long-term oil exposure. OLFLEX FORTIS has FT4 ﬂammability resistance and passes the same crush and impact tests as armored Metal Clad (MC) cables. OLFLEX FORTIS also offers outstanding performance at low temperatures www.lappusa.com Leeco Steel Leeco Steel is a North Americas provider of wind tower shell plate, doorframes, and fabricated steel tower components. They are a supplier to many of North America’s premier tower factories and are a proven supplier to many of the world’s leading wind turbine generator manufacturers. Leeco Steel: Reaching new heights in tower steel solutions. www.leecosteel.com/wind

Wind Farms

MTS Sensors MTS Sensors’ magnetostrictive sensors improve the energy efficiency of wind turbines, provide greater safety, and reduce maintenance costs by providing absolute, linear position measurement with high-performance output protocols, linearity down to ±20μ or better, resolution of 1μ, and resistance to 100g shock 30g vibration. Inside of the rotor blade positioning system, MTS sensors enable the adjustment of the turbine blade angles in response to wind conditions, enabling peak efficiency and reducing the stress on the rotor, tower, and foundation for increased safety and longevity. www.mtssensors.com Transportation Packing Systems Transportation Packing Systems (TPS) was formed to provide customers with durable, well-engineered and cost-effective packaging products for wind components. Their goal is to facilitate and resolve issues that occur before, during, and after the transportation of these parts, and that are so unique to the industry. TPS Products and Services are, among others: 1. Versatile and innovative designs. Their fixtures are adapted for multi-modal capabilities and for multiple-use. 2. Contract manufacturing for specific designs. 3. Customized recovery, inspection, and maintenance programs. 4. Innovative leasing programs to help reduce cash flow expenditures. 5. Worldwide operations with manufacturing in Asia, North America, and Europe. 6. Dedicated on sight representatives if needed. www.transpacksystems.com

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS & SERVICES

On-Site, On Call Repairs and Maintenance for Blades, Nacelles and Spinners. Wind Energy Services Company (WES) provides rapid response, on-site composite repairs and maintenance for wind energy equipment. Highly skilled mobile service teams are trained and equipped to quickly assess and repair damage to composite components incurred from lightning strikes, weather/ environment, shipping and installation. Repairs can be handled prior to erection, up-tower, on-site with the blade removed, or off-site for extensive factory repairs. Nation-wide service with more than 100 technicians on call to keep your operations running proﬁtably. Call today for more information on how we can support you.

Expert Composite Repairs for Wind Energy Blades, Nacelles and Spinners Structural Cracking Including: lightning damage, leading-edge erosion and coating failure; blade balancing; cosmetic/ general warranty needs. New Site Construction: On-the-ground inspection; transport damage repair; blade sign-offs. Inspections: Repair diagnostics (with scope, photo documentation). Demolition: End of life blade dismantling and disposal.

Facilities in Worthington, MN and Sweetwater, TX nÇÇ Î{ ÓxÓÎÊÊUÊÊÜÜÜ°ÕÃ>Ü `i iÀ}ÞÃiÀÛ ViÃ°V

Wherever You Need Us! 32

November / December 2009

Magnetek, Inc. Magnetek’s E-FORCE Wind Converter Magnetek’s E-FORCE Wind Converter offers peak efﬁciencies of over 97% when operating at full power utilizing the most of a wind turbine. The converter provides less than 3% total current distortion by using highfrequency switching technology engineered exclusively by Magnetek.The E-FORCE Wind Converter remains online and rides through utility transient conditions providing seamless performance of your wind turbine once normal voltage levels resume. www.magnetekrenewableenergy.com

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Morgan AM & T Morgan AM & T is a global producer of brushes, holders, springs, and slip rings for the wind turbine market. The highly experienced engineering and technology personnel at Morgan AM & T ensures the highest level of “up time” for the wind turbines with reduced maintenance issues. Perfecting the grade selection for each demanding application is the core beneﬁt of working with Morgan AM & T. Blade pitch slip rings, designed by the Rekofa division are also available. www.morganamt.com

Aevenia, Inc. Aevenia, Inc. is a premier energy and electrical construction company providing design, procurement, installation, and project management to cover every critical aspect of a project along with an assurance of safety, efﬁciency, and quality. Their areas of expertise include underground collection systems, tower wiring, substations, interconnection systems, transmission and distribution, overhead and underground systems, ﬁber optic cabling, low-voltage data cabling, and security. www.aevenia.com

SSB Service

Thanks, Dad!

Not everyone can provide parts directly and quickly. We can! SSB. Slow response on parts orders got you down? WeÂ´re here to get you up and running. SSB Service Inc. is now offering spare parts directly from its U.S. location. How can we serve you? Talk to us: 515.986.9101 www.ssb-group.com | SSB. Experience works.

Get Liquidtight Protection In Tight Spaces…No Tools Required.

The new Shureflex Nylon Liquidtight Conduit System from Thomas & Betts can be installed or disassembled easily— no tools required. Since it’s halogen-free, it’s ideal for use in confined spaces. That’s why it’s quickly gaining popularity among transportation, robotics and wind turbine OEMs. The Shureflex system gives you liquidtight ratings of IP66, IP68 and IP69K with just one fitting. To learn more, call 1-800-816-7809 or visit www.tnb.com. The Shureflex Nylon Liquidtight Conduit System provides a one-fitting watertight system and installs easily without tools. © 2009 Thomas & Betts Corporation. All rights reserved.

Barnhart Crane & Rigging Barnhart Crane & Rigging offers pre-construction constructability surveys, as well as logistic and transport services with specialized transport equipment. The company is a turbine erection specialist with over 3000 MW installed, with zero punch-list projects and quick turnover for commissioning. Providing post-construction maintenance services, national crane service, and technician assistance for component replacement or routine maintenance, Barnhart offers the “Best Built” turbines and innovative solutions for both installation and maintenance. www.barnhartcrane.com

Con-Tech Systems Con-Tech Systems supplies Geo-Support Systems to anchor wind turbine tower foundations and transmission line towers. The company offers strand, high-strength solid bar and the CTS/TITAN Hollow Bar IBO Injection Bore System. The latter is particularly well-suited for transmission line towers in all ground conditions, speciﬁcally in sandy and gravelly soils where it offers substantial advantages over conventional systems. Con-Tech Systems backs up all their products through ongoing development and technical service to clients. They have developed a post-tensioned deep foundation system for wind turbines as an alternative to concrete spread footings. This foundation is more economical than conventional mass foundations, is environmentally less intrusive, and works in soil and rock. Germanischer Lloyd certiﬁcation is applied for. www.contechsystems.com

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products ESAB Welding & Cutting Products introduces the FUB 30 roller bed for ﬁt-up of sections. This roller bed features a robust design to withstand the rugged environment in the welding industry. Designed in 1+1 sections, the system is fast and easy to assemble. Each set consists of one power and one idler roller bed 30T, with four independently adjusted rollers to align the two sections with each other. The roller bed and the rollers are mounted on one main frame. The FUB 30 offers a maximum load of 30 tons with roller speeds of 130-1295 mm/min. Other features include steel rollers with polyurethane tires, an inverter-style drive control, and a remote pendant with push buttons. www.esabna.com

Fagen, Inc. Fagen, Inc. is one of the largest, most respected merit shop green energy design-builder in the United States. Utilizing a database of over 20,000 civil, mechanical, and electrical directhire employees, Fagen, Inc. has constructed 60% of the ethanol production capacity in the US. Fagen, Inc. has also constructed multiple wind farms and is currently working on a 100 MW biomass facility. Fagen, Inc. is prepared to meet industrial demand growth with a large inventory of cranes, including several Manitowoc 18,000’s and the largest CAT ﬂeet in the Midwest. The unmatched standard for quality, safety, and service has led Fagen, Inc. to be listed in the top 40 largest contractors in the US. www.fageninc.com

HYTORC WIND Since 1968, HYTORC has been a manufacturer of hydraulic torque wrenches. In the early stages of the wind power industry, HYTORC discovered a need for reliable equipment and knowledgeable representatives. They responded by hiring specialists with industry experience who were familiar with the many different manufacturers of wind turbines. They then identiﬁed the major obstacles that each manufacturer was facing during turbine assembly and maintenance, and their engineering department went to work to provide a solution. In the last ﬁve years alone, HYTORC has developed kits for nearly every application on the various turbines offered by every manufacturer in the industry. With specialists available for free on-site supervision and training all over the world, HYTORC has built a reputation for reliability in the industry. www.hytorcwind.com

Mortenson Construction Mortenson Construction has built safe, quality construction projects since 1954. The company currently employs more than 2,200 people nationwide with dedicated teams to help deliver renewable energy projects to its growing list of customers. Mortenson has been involved in the construction of more than 80 wind power projects, totaling more than 8,000 MW across the US and Canada, and utility scale solar power projects throughout the US. Mortenson is a US-based, family owned construction company that provides a complete range of services including planning, program management, pre-construction, general contracting, construction management, design-build, and turn-key development. Mortenson has ofﬁces in Chicago, Denver, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Phoenix, and Seattle with international operations in Canada and China. www.mortenson.com

Townsend Corporation Townsend Corporation has three business units (NG Gilbert, Kelley Electric, Townsend Electrical Construction) that offer electrical construction services for the wind energy market. This includes collection systems, substations, transmission interconnects, and tower wiring. Tower wiring personnel have installed over 500 towers manufactured by most major turbine manufacturers. Overall Townsend has performed construction services on 14 projects totaling over 1500 MW. www.thetownsendcorp.com

Whatever Your Needs,We’ve Got The Perfect Fit.

White Construction White Construction specializes in Renewable Energy Power Generation projects by utilizing the strengths of their long-standing history of heavy industrial construction. White Construction was one of the pioneering companies in the early days of wind farm construction across North America. Their experience combined with high-quality standards and safety practices has gained the company recognition in wind industry. Currently, they have installed more than 4,000 MW in the US and Canada. White Construction is distinctive in their ability to provide the engineering, procurement, and construction necessary to provide a turnkey approach to renewable energy projects. They have the knowledge, experience, equipment, and management to ensure projects are on time and within budget—a philosophy that has led to many repeat customers. www.whiteconstruction.com FABSCO CORP. FABSCO CORP. is a manufacturer of anchor bolts for the utility, transmission, and wind industries. Since 1960, FABSCO has manufactured anchor bolts for substations, transmission lines, cell towers, light poles, wind turbines, and antennae. Their anchor bolt capacity goes through six-inch diameters and has no length limits. They also provide products to set drawing and speciﬁcations, and provide hot dip galvanizing services when needed. www.fabscocorp.com

The Thomas & Betts fittings family has the innovation you’re looking for. The BlueKote® Universal Conduit Elbow (LU) adapts fast to four applications. Ranger® liquidtight cord connectors handle twice the cord diameter of ordinary connectors. And T&B® liquidtight fittings are designed to handle continuous flexing and vibration. For details, call 1-800-816-7809 or visit www.tnb.com.

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide

ITH Engineering, Inc. ITH GmbH offers bolting technology and manufactures bolt tensioning cylinders, hydraulic torque wrenches, hydraulic pumps, torque multipliers (electric, pneumatic, manual), as well as large diameter bolts, studs, nuts, and washers. ITH leads the market through a worldwide sales network, international patents, and qualiﬁed application engineers to assist with speciﬁc bolting needs. Within the wind industry, ITH provides tooling for all OEM wind turbines and designed most of the tooling directly with the manufacturers. www.ith.com

Michels Corporation Michels is a Balance of Plant (BOP) contractor that provides full Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services. They are unique because they self-perform all construction operations of building a wind farm. With over 4,500 experienced employees working safely, Michels has constructed wind farms with over 2,900 MW of nameplate capacity. www.michels.us

Professional Logistics Group, Inc. Professional Logistics Group, Inc., PLG, is a logistics consultancy to the global wind energy industry. PLG specializes in reducing supply chain cost, improving operational efficiency, and elevating client logistics standards. They have a proven track record of successfully executing diagnostic logistics assessments and optimization projects within numerous industries, with a specific focus on the wind industry and for both OEMs and developers. PLG offers objective and independent analysis of project logistics feasibility and cost with specific focus on routes studies, risk assessment, modal options, civil engineering requirements, permitting, and regulatory hurdles. Their high level expertise within the wind market has allowed for an increased project governance for their clients by offering an elevated level of visibility, control, and mitigation of direct and indirect logistics costs. www.prologisticsgroup.com TMS Metalizing Systems, Ltd. TMS Metalizing Systems, Ltd. is a thermal spray metalizing equipment manufacturer and a worldwide distributor, offering a wide range of equipment choices such as: arc spray, flame spray, plasma spray, and HVOF systems. TMS is also a metalizing wire supplier (zinc, 85/15, etc.). www.tmsmetalizing.com

Trachte, Inc. Trachte designs and supplies pre-assembled control buildings speciﬁcally for wind farm developers, EPC ﬁrms, construction and electrical contractors, interconnect utilities, relay panel manufacturers, and substation packagers. Trachte buildings are modular, pre-fabricated enclosures available in transportable sizes from 6'x 6' to 30' x 72'. Trachte control buildings are shipped to the wind farm sites, pre-erected with wall and ceiling-mounted gear (including cable tray) pre-installed. Tratche also provides optional site services where they offload, set, anchor, and detail the buildings on site. www.trachteusa.com

MAKE A CONNECTION

Innovative flexible couplings for wind turbine applications. • Made in the USA • Designs for electrical insulation • Designs for torque limiting • Innovation by design Trust Centa… the global innovator since 1970

CENTALINK Highly Flexible for High Power Turbines

Walbridge Walbridge is a full-service wind energy construction provider offering complete EPC services, wind turbine erection services, and transportation and logistics solutions. www.walbridge.com

CENTAFLEX Series A For Close Coupled Small Windpower

Power Transmission Leading by Innovation Catalog downloads at www.centa.info CENTAFLEX Series A Rubber in Compression design

November / December 2009

Email inquiries to info@centacorp.com 2570 Beverly Dr. #128, Aurora, IL 60502 T 630.236.3500

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CONSULTING SERVICES

Garrad Hassan Garrad Hassan has been at the forefront of the wind energy sector for more than two decades, advising on more wind farm developments than any other company in the world. Effective planning, monitoring, optimization, and development of wind farms are reliant upon advanced data collection and analysis. Garrad Hassan develops innovative software products that ensure maximum efﬁciency during all project stages. Products include: GH SCADA, a web-based data acquisition, control, and monitoring solution for onshore and offshore wind farms that allows users to specify what to display, control, record, and report, independent of any manufacturer or turbine type; GH WindFarmer, a wind farm design and optimization tool with an intuitive interface and self-learning tutorials for onshore and offshore wind farms; GH Bladed, an industry standard solution for conducting performance and load calculations to inform the design and certiﬁcation of onshore and offshore wind turbines. www.garradhassan.com

DARcorporation DARcorporation has been offering aeronautical engineering services since 1991. Services include design, analysis, wind tunnel testing, prototypes, and manufacturing of wind energy systems, including horizontal and vertical axis wind turbines and unconventional designs. Once the aerodynamic design is known, the structural design starts. Detailed CAD drawings are provided for production of the prototype. Once built, engineers will supervise installation at a test site and collect test data. DARcorporation can go from initial design all the way to full size manufacturing. www.darcorp.com

SGS Industrial Services SGS Poland has been providing project developers with valuable Owner’s Representative Services for many years. This is also known as Contract Engineering during the construction of new power plants or for the modernization of existing ones. SGS acts as an independent advisor in this role to ensure that all members of the project team work towards a common goal. With an in-depth understanding of the power generation sector, SGS now offers investors Owner’s Representative Services during wind farm development. This is now recognized as the most dynamically progressing technology in electric power production. The range of services covers both support during the pre-construction and the construction

phases, from veriﬁcation of the initial design plans to the supervision of a trial run and commissioning. www.sgs.com/wind

Southwest Research Institute Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is a not-forproﬁt organization performing applied research and development for hire. SwRI often serves a crucial role in the design of high-performance turbomachinery through either third-party design audit support, prototype development and testing, or trouble shooting and failure analysis support. Recent work has included the modeling of the torsional dynamics of a 2 MW wind turbine drive train, as well as prototype development and wind tunnel testing of a client’s wind turbine concept. www.swri.org

N-TRON, Corp. N-TRON Corporation announces the 711FX3 Industrial Ethernet Switch, the latest addition to

their legendary family of tough, smart industrial networking products. Featuring eight 10/100BaseTX ports and three 100Base Fiber ports, the 711FX3 is ideal for wind farm applications where two ports are required for ring redundancy, while a third ﬁber port is required for noise immunity or cable lengths longer than 100 meters. The 711FX3 features a small footprint, rugged industrial metal housing, wide operating temperature range, ESD protection, outstanding noise immunity, and superior shock and vibration specs.

The advanced features of the 711FX3 maximize uptime and provide easy conﬁguration including N-Ring redundancy, automatic IGMP Snooping, DHCP Server with Option 82, Port IP addressing, EtherNet/IP with CIP messaging, DSCP, LLDP, conﬁguration backup, and more. www.n-tron.com

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES

American Electric Technologies, Inc. American Electric Technologies, Inc. (AETI) is the premium provider of power delivery solutions to the traditional and alternative energy industries. AETI provides: LV, MV & HV Startup, Commissioning and Maintenance Services, such as electrical yard, substation, collection system and cabling design, analysis, construction, test, and maintenance services. LV & MV Power Generation, Conversion, Control, Distribution and Management Products, such as UL/IEC converters up to 6MW, turbine pitch & yaw control units, UL/IEC power distribution units, MVANSI/IEC switchgear, energy storage systems, and met tower & electrical monitoring and data collection systems, all delivered with fast delivery times. Construction Assistance and Equipment Refurbishment Services, such as electrical system engineering, as well as procurement and construction assistance for OEMs, developers, contractors, and operators. www.aeti.com

BURNDY BURNDY announces the expansion of the wire range for its BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of copper and aluminum compression terminals (types YBA, YBA-FX, and YBA-A). It provides maximum field flexibility by allowing the installer (using the BREAK-AWAY feature) to easily convert a twohole terminal to a one-hole terminal to best suit the specific application. The BURNDY UL Listed and CSA Certified BREAK-AWAY HYLUG line of terminals is rated to 90 degree C, 600 volts to 35kV. With a slotted second stud, the BREAKAWAY line of terminals can conform to various bus bar dimensions. For additional flexibility, the Narrow Tongue design allows the terminal to fit into tight spaces. Additionally, the BREAK-AWAY line of terminals accommodates a wide range of conductor combinations including AWG, Compact, DLO, Flex, and Metric. www.burndy.com North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide

ABB, Inc. ABB is pleased to announce the extension of the Tmax UL489 Molded Case Circuit Breaker family to include the T7M and T8 molded case circuit breakers. The Tmax family offers a complete line of molded case circuit breakers ranging from 15A to 3000A, a wide range of UL ﬁeld installable electrical and mechanical accessories, and the best performance/size ratio on the market. For use with alternating current, the T7M and T8 circuit breakers can be equipped with trip units using electronic technology. This allows protection functions to be obtained, which provide highreliability, tripping precision, and insensitivity to temperature and electromagnetic components. www.abb.us/lowvoltage

Remke Energy With over 15,000 electrical products in stock, Remke Energy is powered by a suite of brands that have decades of experience serving the industrial OEM/MRO and contractor markets. Remke Energy offers a diverse selection of electrical connectivity and cable management products to support applications throughout a wind turbine including: in the nacelle, electrical components needed to support the mechanical train, power generation, or pitch and yaw control; cable support in the tower, which is provided with Remke Energy Wire Mesh Support & Strain Relief Grips; and, Remke Energy power or grounding connectors and wire management products are used with tower base or substation equipment. Remke Energy offers low minimums, competitive terms, live help and technical support, quick quotations and project pricing. www.remkeenergy.com

Virginia Transformer Corporation With a corporate history grounded in custom design, Virginia Transformer Corporation (VTC) is focused on innovation to meet the demand for cleaner alternative energy sources. With three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in North America, they’ve built a reputation on quality design and delivery ahead of schedule. VAT is a “one-stop shop” for transformers, with a product range from 300 kva to 300 mva, 230 kv class. Visit their website to see the proprietary design UNICLAD dry type transformer, the most efﬁcient, reliable, environmentally friendly power transformer—only available from Virginia Transformer. www.vatransformer.com

WIND POWER SERVICE COAST-TO-COAST COVERAGE • • • • • •

16 regional service centers Uptower maintenance services Authorized OEM generator repair Generator unit exchange program Spare parts—electrical & mechanical On-site generator pickup and delivery

888.694.6200 • www.tricotcwind.com

November / December 2009

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TRICO TCWIND (an IPS Company) TRICO TCWIND, an IPS Company, is the premier provider of repair services for wind turbine generators. Providing coast-to-coast coverage, TRICO TCWIND can repair generators, as well as a wide range of in-house repairs including generator rebuilding, main shaft repair, electronic board repair, and other services. TRICO TCWIND’s ﬁeld service team can supply services such as bearing and slip ring repair, tower cleaning, and blade repair. TRICO TCWIND also provides products for wind turbine maintenance, brushes, greases, oils, encoders, couplings, and more. TRICO TCWIND’s commitment to quality and service is what sets them apart from the competition. www.tricotcwind.com

Wieland Electric Inc. Wieland offers UL approved podis flat power bus cables and functional modules to simplify installation of tower lighting and power receptacles inside wind energy towers. The system is based on an uncut, 7-pole flat power bus, which is used to distribute the power required inside the tower. Functional modules feature units with fixed or pluggable power outputs for lighting fixtures or power receptacles that are connected to the 7-pole power bus. By using insulation-piercing contacts to mate with the power bus, these functional modules connect in any position and location inside the tower. Modules provide quick, safe, and trouble-free installation without interruption of the power bus line. Wire termination is accomplished without time-consuming wire cutting and stripping. www.wielandinc.com

Border States Electric Border States Electric (BSE), one of the largest electrical distributors in the US, provides products for all phases of wind energy projects: turbine and tower components, collector system products, and substation and transmission lines. BSE’s experience team provides take-offs, substation packaging, material management, logistical support, and project closeout. The company’s extensive branch network provides instant access to a broad inventory of reliable, high-quality, and competitively priced products, alleviating long lead times. In addition, BSE can stage and store wind energy project materials at either the customer’s location or ours. www.borderstateselectric.com

Full Spectrum Solutions, Inc. The EverLast PVW Area Lighting System is an outdoor induction lighting fixture that incorporates a wind turbine generator, as well as PV solar panels, battery power storage, and integrated smart controls to ultimately power a unique induction fluorescent lighting fixture. This unique combination of components delivers powerful, commercial-grade lighting that meets or exceeds most local, state, and federal requirements. The PVW area lighting system offers a range of fluorescent lighting fixtures so that customers can select an appropriate EverLast induction fixture to satisfy the needs of their specific application. Exceptionally energy efficient and completely off the grid, EverLast PVW Area Lighting Systems allow businesses and municipalities to reduce overhead by decreasing energy and maintenance costs associated with lighting systems. www.everlastlight.com

G&W Electric G & W Electric is an ISO-certiﬁed, global supplier of wind tower load and fault interrupting switches, multiway collector system switchgear, reclosers, and current limiting system protectors. www.gwelec.com

mechanical and electrical engineering, distribution, transmission and substation construction, commissioning and maintenance services, as well as 24/7 emergency response. www.k-line.ca

Hammond Power Solutions Hammond Power Solutions (HPS), manufacturer of dry-type electrical transformers in North America, has expanded its energy efficient transformer product offering to provide customers with the broadest selection of transformers in the industry. HPS offers three standard series of energy efficient transformers designed for use in a variety of applications. Designs include the use of phase shifting to maximize energy savings, improve the total power factor, and provide high-power quality. Designated HPS Sentinel, HPS Synergy, and HPS Centurion Series, these transformers meet the NEMA TP-1-2002 (US) and C802.2 (Canada) energy efficiency standards at an efficiency range of 35% to 65%, of rated linear or non-linear loads. HPS energy efficient transformers are also EPAct/NRCan compliant. www.hammondpowersolutions.com

K-Line Maintenance & Construction Ltd. The K-Line Group specializes in full turnkey Wind Farm Electrical Balance of Plant (EBOP) solutions from 600 V to 230 kV. In-house capabilities include regulatory and utility permitting submissions, civil,

Quick Cable Corporation Quick Cable Corporation is a North American manufacturer specializing in electrical storage and connectivity products for battery systems. Involved in battery systems for over 50 years, Quick

Cable produces UL/CUL listed connectors under ISO9001:2008 quality procedures with operations in the US and Canada. A complete product line is available for telecom, wind, solar, and any system requiring connection and battery storage care or maintenance. www.quickcable.com

Henkels & McCoy, Inc. Henkels & McCoy’s wind power construction professionals offer the highest standards of workmanship, professionalism, safety consciousness, and customer focus. They have the ability to successfully integrate project management into the most complex work scopes and participate in numerous multi-million-dollar projects. Henkels & McCoy has been constructing power projects for over 80 years for the same utility clients connected with most wind farm. They also have underground collector system expertise from years of installing cross-country ﬁber backbones. Installing transmission lines, substations, 34.5 kV power, and ﬁber optic cable splicing and testing are all work scopes performed day in and day out. www.henkels.com

Honeywell Obstruction Lighting Be seen with Honeywell Obstruction Lighting systems—whether illuminating a broadcast tower, a cellular tower, or a wind turbine, Honeywell offers the products needed with the technology wanted and the certiﬁcations required. Their LED products save energy, time, and money while providing high levels of reliability and protection from the elements towers face every day. Their FlashGuard and StrobeGuard xenon-strobe products are still favorites in the industry. Meet all obstruction lighting needs—low, medium, and high intensity—with Honeywell. www.oblighting.com

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide ENGINEERING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES tower segments, pitch bearings, hubs, and frames. Using Dodeka or FixPerfect milling cutters from Kennametal can mean signiﬁcant reductions in face and interpolation milling tasks. Extensive project engineering services include advanced metal-cutting strategies and production ramp-up assistance. www.kennametal.com

Albarrie Albarrie SorbWeb Plus Secondary Containment, The SorbWeb Plus System, is an environmentally friendly and economically attractive oil containment system designed to prevent oil from transformers and other oil-containing vessels to spread into the ground. The SorbWeb Plus system consists of a composite of several layers of protective material built in a contained area to passively permeate water and retain and trap oil from a catastrophic spill or leaks out of transformers, breakers, capacitors, and other oil containing units commonly used in the utility industry. The SorbWeb Plus System is a design alternative to concrete, which does not require maintenance. www.sorbwebplus.com

Ecology and Environment, Inc. E & E offers the strategic professional and technical services wind energy developers need to get online fast. Operating from 30 domestic ofﬁces, their multi-disciplinary team has collectively worked on more than 200 North American wind projects. They provide environmental consulting services, conduct environmental assessments, prepare environmental documentation and permit applications, and perform due diligence assessments for all types of wind projects. Let them show you why “permitting is a breeze” with E & E. www.ene.com/service/energy/wind.aspx

Tetra Tech Tetra Tech is the only firm in the United States that provides a full range of integrated environmental, engineering, and construction services for all phases of a wind energy development project. Their environmental services include due diligence, siting, biological/cultural resource studies, environmental review and permitting, and public involvement. Their engineering services include conceptual and detailed design, geotechnical and seismic studies and design, surveying, and constructability reviews. Tetra Tech has the financial strength to stand behind large EPC, BOP, and other construction projects, providing project management, procurement, civil, electrical and erection field services, construction management, and safety planning and training. With experience from more than 200 wind projects in 34 states, Tetra Tech has extraordinary insight into the unique issues associated with wind projects. www.tetratech.com

Lufft Precision Instruments Lufft, of Falbach Germany, has been manufacturing precision meteorological monitoring equipment for over 125 years. Last year, Lufft introduced the WS series of compact ultrasonic weather stations. WS200-WS600 and VENTUS models are designed with different levels of functionality to meet speciﬁc weather monitoring applications. The top-of-the-range model, WS600- measures temperature, humidity, precipitation, air pressure, wind direction, and wind speed. The sensor data can be polled wirelessly through the UMB (Universal Measurement Bus) system.UMB is new technology for recording environmental data. Free ﬁrmware updates and data transfer over RS232, RS485 or CDMA modem. All UMB sensors can be polled by means of a standard protocol. The robust VENTUS model is ideal for wind turbine control applications and other instances where precise measurement of wind speed and direction is required in cold climates. www.lufftusa.com | www.ws600.com

LEGAL SERVICES

TITAN TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC

3 YEAR WARRANTY Spend No money on repairs for 3 years

SUPERIOR BOLTING SOLUTIONS ®

SGC Engineering SGC Engineering offers expertise in the planning and design of wind power projects. Applying their extensive electrical engineering expertise, they competently design the required high-voltage electrical transmission, collection and distribution systems, as well as the associated substations and control facilities. Their civil engineers and land surveyors are instrumental in the layout, design, and permitting of access roads, turbine and transmission line rights-of-way, and substation site development. www.sgceng.com

LARGE WIND TURBINE MFG (over 100 kW)

T-Series Hydraulic Torque Wrenches

Hydraulic Wrench Pumps

LP-Series Hydraulic Torque Wrenches

Hydraulic Tensioners

Electric Torque Wrenches including TORQUE & ANGLE

Foundation Bolt Tensioners

TITAN Technologies International, Incorporated 9001 Jameel Street, Suite 180 • Houston, TX 77040 Toll-Free: 866.345.8484 • Phone: 281.449.9994 • Fax: 281.449.9996 Email:sales@TitanTi.com • http://www.TitanTi.com 40

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Kennametal Inc. Kennametal tools mean better manufacturing. Kennametal Inc. is a global supplier of tooling, engineered components, and advanced materials consumed in production processes. Companies producing everything from wind turbines to frame components, from medical implants to solar collectors, recognize Kennametal for extraordinary contributions to their value chains. KSEM Plus modular drills, for example, set new productivity standards manufacturing such wind energy components as

Milbank Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy is an international legal advisor to the renewable energy industry, representing sponsors, investors, and financing parties in the development, financing, acquisition, and disposition of renewable energy projects. The Firm also provides counsel on regulatory issues and intellectual property matters relating to renewable energy projects. In its 30 years of experience in renewable energy, Milbank has successfully completed over 180 renewable energy deals, totaling over 9,000 MW of renewable power. The Firm is consistently named by industry journals, including “Project Finance International,” “Infrastructure Journal,” and “New Energy Finance,” as one of the foremost law firms serving the renewable energy industry. Milbank has offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC, and in major financial centers around the world. www.milbank.com

Holland & Hart LLP Holland & Hart LLP is the largest law firm based in the Mountain West, providing a complete range of legal services to a diverse group of commercial and individual clients. With a team of more than 900, Holland & Hart has more than 400 attorneys with offices in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, and Washington, DC. The firm offers an extensive network of legal talent and resources equipped to assist businesses in every stage of renewable energy development, financing, and acquisition. Holland & Hart has represented and is currently representing purchasers, developers, and sponsors in connection with more than three dozen wind energy projects across the country. www.hollandhart.com

JETYD Corporation In wind turbine assembly and maintenance there

is one constant truth: for true structural integrity, a joint must be tightened with accurate and even bolt load. Only JETYD can assure a consistently accurate bolt load is applied every time—usually in half the time of conventional bolting methods. And, for the ﬁrst time ever, now it can be done without galling the tower or becoming susceptible to loosening from vibration. This is done using JETYD’s patented Stretch-To-Load fastening devices. These fasteners have been widely accepted for critical and non-critical applications

in heavy industries by nearly every major energy company around the world. Additionally, operator safety is drastically increased as the fasteners permit remote operation of hydraulic tools without reaction arms or back-up wrenches. www.jetyd.com

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

Beka Max of America Inc. Beka Lube Products Inc. BekaWind Automatic Lubrication Systems provide a constant supply of lubricant to important components of wind converters. Precisely metered amounts of grease are delivered to main, blade, and yaw bearings, plus pitch and yaw drives. BekaWind provides solutions to meet all applications. BekaWind Single, Pro and Flow are designed for high-operational reliability. www.beka-lube.com

Crane Service Inc. Crane Service Inc. specializes in wind turbine maintenance and erection with offices located in Sweetwater, TX; El Paso, TX; Bloomfield, NM; and, Albuquerque, NM. Crane Service Inc has over 15 years of experience in the wind industry and has participated on turbine maintenance and erection projects on wind farms throughout the US. Clients include Bluarc Management Group (formerly Babcock & Brown), Gamesa, GE Wind Energy, LM Glasfiber, M.A. Mortenson, Mitsubishi Power Systems, NextEra Energy, Siemens Wind Power, and Vestas AWT. They offer the experience and equipment to take care of what’s required. www.craneserviceinc.com

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide

Northwind Solutions As North America’s wind energy industry matures, companies that service its assets will need to deliver an enhanced value to those companies who own the assets. In order to deliver such essential services, an ongoing technology investment is required. Northwind Solutions has implemented IBM Maximo with its partner, Projetech. Together they have configured the system and field processes to ensure a solid foundation for field management and reporting capabilities are at a level which befits the critical nature of wind assets. The IBM Maximo implementation with Projetech is among the most strategic initiatives Northwind has taken on in the past year. www.northwindsolutions.com www.projetech.com

Using our past to

Parker Hanniﬁn Parker, global manufacturer of motion and control technologies, now offers condition monitoring technology to provide real-time, onsite solutions to turbine health management. Parker’s portable analyzers provide fast, accurate in-line measurement of ﬂuid conditions, including contamination levels, in hydraulic systems. The robust construction, portability, and internal computers make them ideal for use in the hostile and remote environments of wind turbines, with consistent accuracy. www.parker.com/windpower

connect to the

future Since its founding in 1924, BURNDY® has had a reputation for being a leader in innovation in the design as well as manufacturing of high quality compression connectors, tooling and grounding products. Today BURNDY® brings that rich tradition of product innovation to the renewable energy industry. To learn more about what BURNDY® can do for you, please call or visit our website today.

US 1-800-346-4175 International 1-603-647-5299 Canada 1-800-387-6487 Mexico 011-52-722-265-4400 Brazil 011-55-11-5515-7200 www.burndy.com © FCI USA, Inc.

Experience. Technology. Answers.

MEMBER

SSB Service Inc. SSB is one of the pioneers of the rapidly growing regenerative energy production market and has been one of the market leaders in electrical pitch systems and switch gears since 1995. Particularly for the wind energy sector, SSB Service offers a proactive, all-inclusive worldwide service for all types of wind turbine generators. This includes the entire value-added chain from remote monitoring and maintenance, to the supply of spare parts and fault ﬁnding, up to the optimization of systems by staff with over 10 years of experience in the wind sector. www.ssb-group.com

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Swantech Swantech provides SWANwind, a unique Condition Management System for Wind Turbine Generators. Using patented Stress Wave Energy technology, SWANwind provides the tools to manage the maintenance operations of wind farms. From individual turbine health analysis to ﬂeet display tools to customized monitoring, SWANwind offers the necessary information to make informed decisions for all aspects of a maintenance program. Management of scheduled outages, evaluation of operating condition impact on the turbine health, and troubleshooting are examples of the information available. In addition, SWANwind automatically calculates the severity and criticality of turbine health allowing early and accurate solutions delivered to operators. www.swantech.com

ThyssenKrupp Safway, Inc. ThyssenKrupp Safway, a company offering safe, reliable, suspended access solutions, announces the SafAscent Wind Turbine Platform for external wind tower access. Safway has nearly 90 branches in the US and Canada to provide SafAscent for wind farms in any location—no matter how remote. Available for rental or sale, SafAscent is designed speciﬁcally for maintenance and inspection of wind turbines, enabling unrestricted access to the tower and blades. The 6'6" modular platform provides a safe, simple, and fast way to travel up the tower. Hoists ensure quick access to the work site with quick climbing speeds of 35 feet per minute. Three sets of padded rollers protect the wind tower and blades. SafAscent exceeds OSHA, OH&S, and ANSI standards, and meets all UL & CSA requirements. www.safway.com/wind

VibrAlign, Inc. Vibralign sells, rents, and services a full range of laser alignment and measurement tools. In addition, VibrAlign ﬁelds a team of highly experienced service providers—experts in vibration analysis, balancing, and machinery alignment. The VibrAlign Shaft Hog laser alignment tool can be found on wind turbines all over the country. The Shaft Hog’s live display means that you get instant feedback on the turbine’s alignment condition. The Shaft Hog delivers great accuracy and ease of use at an affordable price. Other systems are also available to complete VibrAlign’s range of offerings. They have personnel located in key cities throughout the US, and experienced service providers ready to travel whenever and wherever customers call. Whatever alignment or vibration problems faced, VibrAlign can help. www.vibralign.com

Wind Energy Services Company Wind Energy Services Company (WES) provides fast response, on-site FRP composite repairs, and maintenance for wind energy equipment including new sites, retrofits, and inspections. The company’s mobile response service teams are trained and equipped to quickly assess and make repairs from lightning strikes, shipping and installation damage, structural cracking, leadingedge erosion and coating failure, blade balancing, and cosmetic/general warranty needs. Repairs can be handled prior to erection (shipping and handling damage), up-tower, on-site with the blade removed, and off-site for more extensive factory repairs when necessary. WES employs 100+ certified composite wind repair technicians who conduct approximately 90% of repairs onsite. Offices in Worthington, MN and Sweetwater, TX. www.usawindenergyservices.com

Climax Portable Machine Tools Satisfy the most stringent tower-specifications with the Climax CM6000 Circular Mill. Its metals removal capabilities, precision, and portability make the CM6000 the machine tool of choice for in-situ machining of tower sections on the production line and for field machining. Machines tower diameters from 10- to 14-feet (3.1 to 4.3 meters), achieves a surface flatness tolerance of .004 inches (+/- 0.032 mm) and a 60rms micro finish. The circular mill is modularly designed and can be set up within an hour. Available for purchase or rent, it can be configured to perform across a wide range of flange widths, section sizes and power sources. Cuts machining time up to 75% compared to single point machine tools—and three to four flanges can be machined in a typical shift; 24/7 live support and training is also available. www.cpmt.com/products/circular-mills/cm6000

Gemini Energy Services Gemini Energy Services is a premier independent service provider to the wind industry. Their unique workforce of turbine technicians is primarily comprised of former military professionals who have the proven background, training, and tools and have received wind-speciﬁc training to excel in wind parks across North America. Gemini Energy Services will deploy their O&M professionals to sites for permanent roles, or through their quick-action jump teams for corrective action or to implement and

sustain a preventive maintenance program following OEM guidelines. Whether the need is short- or long-term, Gemini has the solution. www.geminienergyservices.com

Our wind tower solutions will blow you away. W E L D I N G + C U T T I N G + A U T O M AT I O N = W I N D T O W E R S O L U T I O N S

Subarc Wire and Flux

Electro Static Technology By safely channeling harmful shaft currents away from bearings to ground, Electro Static Technology’s AEGIS WTG wind turbine grounding ring prevents bearing damage that could otherwise cause generator failure, unplanned downtime, costly repairs, and lost revenues. Maintenance-free, effective at any RPM, and available for any size wind turbine generator, the ring is designed for OEM installation or easy up-tower retroﬁt. www.est-aegis.com

HANSA-FLEX Hydraulics Canada Inc. HANSA-FLEX is a European privately owned supplier of hydraulic hose, hose assemblies, couplings, ﬁttings, adapters, and hydraulic components. As

Mechanized Cutting

Welding Automation

What’s the most efficient way to produce your wind tower? Turn to ESAB for a complete manufacturing solution. We have everything you need, all in one place – from mechanized cutting machines to automated welding systems to the broadest selection of filler metals and fluxes. Our experts will provide a turnkey solution, from factory layout to unequalled support that will keep your operation running at maximum efficiency. So let ESAB power the fabrication of your wind tower.

esabna.com + 1.800.ESAB.123

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide early as the mid-90’s, the HANSA-FLEX network of branches and subsidiaries worldwide have been supporting the major global manufacturers in the wind energy industry, as well as the operators of wind turbines, providing both original equipment and spare parts. As a system partner, the HANSAFLEX Group maintains a high level of expertise in handling the demands, support, and technical requirements for all hydraulic needs—from custom designed hose assemblies according to highest OEM technical speciﬁcations to challenging new technical solutions. HANSA-FLEX Hydraulics Canada Inc. is a North American centre with a fully stocked 20,000-square-foot warehouse, including a complete state of the art hose assembly production and testing facility. www.hansa-flex.ca

HEATCON, Inc. HEATCON, Inc. provides comprehensive solutions for the wind energy industry. This world-renowned company has utilized its knowledge and experience to create a product line directly focused on wind blade repair. HEATCON, Inc., and its subsidiaries, has been in the composite repair industry for over 25 years, with ofﬁces and state of the art training facilities located worldwide. By offering specialized training, equipment, accessories, and materials, HEATCON, Inc is a one-stop shop for wind blade repair solutions. Their complete repair solutions are backed by years of expertise, knowledgeable technical support, and an array of products. www.heatcon.com

LUDECA, Inc. PRÜFTECHNIK and LUDECA, Inc. (US partners) operate as suppliers for portable and online remote monitoring systems and are expert service providers. With more than 1,000 VIBROWEB XP online monitoring systems sold worldwide, PRÜFTECHNIK and LUDECA have a strong presence in the wind industry. The Germanishe Lloyd (GL) Wind certiﬁed VIBROWEB XP Wind online monitoring system was developed exclusively for wind turbine condition monitoring. It’s an easy-to-install, intelligent, and compact unit that operates autonomously without a PC. To continue the expansion within the industry, LUDECA introduces its LUDECAwind Division to provide system support services, which includes installation and start-up of condition monitoring systems, telediagnosis services with remote monitoring, laser alignment and geometric measurement systems, continuous alignment monitoring, and consulting. www.ludeca.com

TorcUP Industrial Bolting Tools TorcUP is pleased to announce a change to their TU Series Hydraulic Torque Wrench. An enhancement to the material of the internal mechanisms creates the TU “Ultra” Series. With key TorcUP design characteristics including the distinctive engraved shroud, independent multi-axis swivels, and signature internal reaction arm splines, it truly is the fastest, smallest, lightest, and most robust square drive tool ever produced. Good looks are just the start, with a distinct advantage added to the drive plate, segment, and ratchet. These three components take the brunt of wear and tear and they are now made of Vascomax, which means they are 30% stronger and 15% harder. Different is good, and with these changes, the TorcUP TU “Ultra” Series will remain distinctive in the torque industry. www.torcup.com

RENEWABLES • TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION • DATA COMMUNICATIONS SUBSTATIONS • URBAN TELECOM & POWER • ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

We are Aevenia. The way energy moves.

We are Aevenia, Inc., a premier energy and electrical construction company. We offer a powerful bundle of services and back it up with 40 years in the energy and electrical construction industry. Every day, we show our customers what it’s like to do business where trust, integrity, efficiency and quality are principle values.

www.aevenia.com • 218.284.9500 Energy and Electrical Construction

November / December 2009

3030 24th Ave So. Moorhead, MN 56560

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Sage Oil Vac Wind Available in skid, open trailer, or enclosed trailer configurations, the Sage Oil Vac Gear Oil Exchange System features 2,250 gallon (946L) or 390 gallon (1476L) tanks. Standard features include an on-board 3 micron filtration system, a heating system, 110% secondary containment pan, barrel straw, and air compressor. Sage Oil Vac’s Gear Oil Exchange System for wind turbines features an optional flush system that works with the Gear Oil Exchange System’s standard operating features. The flush fluid may be vacuumed into the flush tank for re-use or in to the waste oil tank. www.sageoilvacwind.com

Snap-on Industrial The understanding and proper application of torque is a mission-critical element of a viable and sustainable windpower industry in the US. Snap-on Industrial, in conjunction with education and industry partners, has spearheaded a torque certification training program as part of a technical school or junior college curriculum. Through conversations with representatives from diverse industries, safety, and torque turned up at the forefront of training issues marked as critical. Torque is the twisting motion used to tighten or secure a fastener. The Snapon Industrial torque certification program explores both torque theory and proper use and application of equipment. Testing for the certification focuses on equipment use. www.snapon.com/industrial

Total Wind Total Wind is an independent and privately owned company specializing in providing manpower for installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. The company’s employees are considered their main asset, and their projects are handled with the utmost dedication and passion for all concerned. Total Wind’s dedicated team of supervisors, project managers, and technicians has many years of experience within the wind power industry. With nine offices worldwide to serve their customers, Total Wind is confident they can contribute to making any project a success, wherever it may be located. Quality, safety, flexibility, and teamwork are all keywords in their way of doing business. In close collaboration with clients, Total Wind carefully plans clients’ needs; always with a view of making their customers even more competitive in the everchanging wind power market. www.totalwind.com Turn Energy Maintenance Turn Energy Maintenance offers the following operations & maintenance services for wind turbines: asset management; 24/7/365 local & remote monitoring; site safety management; systematic and proactive analytics to isolate component & performance issues; fault resets; curtailment; scheduled and unscheduled maintenances; documentation of individual WTG service history; repairs; inspections; and, major component exchanges. www.tem-llc.com

PROJECT DEVELOPER

TradeWind Energy Award-winning TradeWind Energy is a premier developer of wind projects throughout the Midwest. Currently developing more than 8,000 MW of wind energy in approximately a dozen states, TradeWind develops clean energy done the right way. TradeWind has developed innovative systems and analyses that allow it to select sites that achieve maximum energy generation while paying rigorous attention to limiting impact on the environment. TradeWind developed the Smoky Hills Wind Project, one of the highest producing wind energy sites in the central US. Based in Lenexa, Kansas, TradeWind partners with utilities, cooperatives, environmental groups, municipalities, and landowners to develop mutually beneﬁcial wind projects that deliver low-cost wind energy while maintaining an uncompromising commitment to long-term project quality. TradeWind has a strategic partnership with Enel North America. www.tradewindenergy.com

SAFETY

Gravitec Systems, Inc. Gravitec System’s G4 Wind Turbine Rescue and

Evacuation System, a specialized kit designed for the wind energy industry, addresses the need for a user-friendly, high-angle rescue system that can be used to quickly evacuate personnel from turbines. The G4 is an assembly of rescue equipment speciﬁcally selected for use in wind turbines to facilitate one- or two-person evacuations or for use around edges or to lift, lower, or drag a rescue subject. Unlike other rescue systems, the G4’s design virtually eliminates rope entanglement in windy environments. Each system is contained in a weatherproof PVC storage bag and is individually numbered for

Moving tons of equipment over soft soils

easy tracking. The kit includes a detailed instruction manual and plasticized quick-view instruction cards illustrating the G4’s conﬁgurations. www.gravitec.com

Just another day on the job

Laying foundation

Challenge: ve How to mo ment heavy equip s il over soft so

LEVEL of THINKIN G A NEW

CARSTENSEN CARSTE CAR STENSE STE NSENN

Volkswind USA Inc. Established in 1993, Volkswind was a pioneer wind energy developer in Germany. Today, they are one of the top Independent Power Producers (IPP) in the European markets with a proven track record of installations in Germany, France, Poland, and the UK. At the core of their success is an impeccable quality standard and focus on performance. Volkswind USA follows in the footsteps of the parent company, bringing considerable technical and operational knowledge to the growing US wind energy market. www.volkswind.us

C O N T R A C T I N G,

I N C.

Building roads

Creative thinking and coordinated scheduling solved the challenge of soft soils at the Odin, Minnesota Wind Farm project. Carstensen compensated for the soft soils by building roads and laying foundations during summer, then brought in the crane to erect the turbines after the ground froze. A weighty example of Carstensen’s new level of thinking.

LEVEL of THINKIN G A NEW

CARSTENSEN C O N T R A C T I N G,

I N C.

507.825.2026 carstensencontracting.com

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide UNISTRUT Energy Solutions UNISTRUT Energy Solutions offers engineered vertical fall protection systems that are specifically created for each application. Their staff of engineers will design the safest and most economical solution for even the most difficult projects. They take responsibility for all phases of each job and their permanent certification of acceptance assures the most competent system design and installation. UNISTRUT has the experience and resources to provide a turnkey solution for all wind tower needs. www.unistrutenergy.com

SMALL WIND TURBINE MTG (under 100 kW)

American Zephyr Corp. American Zephyr has announced its newest, small wind turbine, the 1 kW constant voltage 250 VDC Airdolphin GTO (“Grid-Tie Optimized”). The Airdolphin GTO connects to the grid via standard PV inverters. With a cut-in wind speed of only 2.5 m/s and no pre-determined cut-out wind speed (due to the Airdolphin series’ unique Intelligent Power Management System), the Airdolphin GTO has a peak output exceeding 3.5kW at 20 m/s. At under 20 kg, and with a 1.8 meter rotor diameter, the Airdolphin GTO is the most efﬁcient and easily installed small wind turbine in its class. Known for reliability even in hostile environments, American Zephyr’s Airdolphin series offers years of maintenance-free operation. www.americanzephyr.com

Urban Green Energy Urban Green Energy specializes in small wind energy technology. Their product offering features a full line of vertical axis wind turbines ranging from 300 W to 10 kW, as well as certain applications such as their wind/solar streetlamp. Urban Green Energy has ofﬁces and distributors around the world to serve their many customers. www.urbangreenenergy.com

Vbine Energy Vbine has developed a “ring” shaped permanent magnet generator that can be adapted to smoke stacks, chimneys, or even communication towers to make use of existing structures and provide power where needed. Vbine Energy has eliminated a need for drive shafts and gear boxes. It also has a low RPM and takes advantage of wind moving in any direction. www.vbine.com

Aerostar Inc. Aerostar manufacturers small wind turbines ranging from 10 KW to 30 KW. With a data collection system and an 8" LCD touchscreen display included with every turbine, producing power has never been more interactive. Their generator produces power that is identical to the electricity purchased from a utility company, so an inverter is not required. Contact Aerostar to ﬁnd the right wind turbine. Made in the USA. www.aerostarwind.com

Clean Energy Technologies Clean Energy is the exclusive North American and European provider of axial ﬂux inner rotor generators for wind turbines. Their patented technology features extremely low torque, no cogging, lighter weight, higher efﬁciency, and excellent value. Contact Clean Energy Technologies for further information. www.cleanenergytechnologies.net

STRONGER THAN THE WIND Deep Foundation Systems * for wind turbines

www.contechsystems.com *Germanischer Lloyd certification pending; patent pending

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Enertech Enertech has recently introduced the new E13 wind turbine, a 40kw, 13m turbine designed for industrial, agricultural, and commercial applications. Based on the successful Enertech 44 series, the new E13 features updated electronics and advanced, allcomposite blades. www.enertechwind.com

Leviathan Energy The Wind Lotus is one of the most cost-effective small vertical axis turbines available due to its aerodynamic technology. Its low noise and vibration make it the best choice for rooftops and near people. Orders are now being taken for the next version, with a design that looks like a moving sculpture of a tulip, available in January 2010. Available with 2, 3.5, and 5 kilowatt generators/inverters. www.leviathanenergy.com

Mariah Power Mariah Power recently announced the 400th installation of its innovative vertical axis Windspire wind turbine. The site of the 400th installation is a private residence on the US Virgin Islands. Homeowners and businesses are installing Windspires to save money on energy costs while helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Windspire has a unique noise-free and attractive design that allows it to ﬁt in many places currently unavailable to small wind. A 30% federal tax credit available for the Windspire has also enabled more homeowners and businesses to harness their own clean energy. A complete Windspire typically costs between $9,000 and $12,000 fully installed. After rebates, the cost can be as low as $3,800, much lower than comparable wind turbines and other alternative energy options. www.mariahpower.com

manufactures ﬁber optic fusion splicers, test equipment, and related accessories. Whether building, upgrading, or expanding a network, AFL has the products and services, training, and education designed to meet unique project needs. www.afltele.com Troy Forge Company Throughout its forty year history, Troy Forge Co. has combined a highly developed engineering/metallurgical competence and a skilled workforce, with state-of-the-science technology to provide superior cold and warm forged products to many leading industrial equipment manufacturers. The company produces precision forgings for applications in market sectors as diverse as: agriculture, earthmoving, construction, materials handling, oil & gas, and power generation. www.troyforge.com

Wind Simplicity Inc. Wind Simplicity’s multi-award-winning Windancer horizontal-axis small wind turbine (3 kW, 7 kW, 23 kW) is high-efﬁciency, compact and noisefree, thanks to a breakthrough, patent-pending 8-blade, 2-rotor design. A 1 m/sec start-up speed (Windancer3/Windancer7), direct-drive technology maximizes power output at low/high wind speeds. Ideal for lower towers without guy wires, reducing installation/maintenance costs. Features include: negligible noise/vibration/lightweight; self-starting without electricity; a competitive advantage—higher green-energy visibility; attractive, eye-catching design; increase property value; quality, engineered turnkey installation; and, maximum safety features (permanent lightning arrestor). Awards include: National Energy Globe 2009; 1st Place Green Dot 2008; Gold Design Exchange Engineering 2007. www.windsimplicity.ca

TRANSMISSION

TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS Equipment Express Equipment Express specializes in transportation and logistics, with hauling capabilities to 565 metric tons and crane capacity up to 850 tons. www.equipmentexpress.com

Innovative Financing to Help New Jersey Businesses Go Green!

EquipmentExpress.indd 1

9/4/08 10:36:15 AM

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) introduces Clean Energy Solutions, a suite of new financing products that will include interest-free loans and grants to complement the state’s existing clean energy programs. Our new financing products will allow New Jersey to take a leadership role in promoting a “green” economy, ensuring that businesses and institutional entities have the resources they need to grow and prosper.

Categories include: • Energy-efficient end-use projects • Combined heat and power (CHP or cogen) production facilities • State-of-the-art efficient electric generation facilities • Class I renewable energy and energy efficiency manufacturing

Our Edison Clean Energy Manufacturing Fund (CEMF) will continue to support the development and commercialization of Class I EquipmentExpress.inddrenewable 1 energy and energy-efficiency technologies in New Jersey. American Wire Group AWG specializes in Cable for wind farms, offering a complete line of Collection System Cables, Fiber Optic Cables, Aluminum Transmission Overhead Conductors (ACSR), flexible Copper Conductor Cables (DLO), Bare Copper Conductor, and all sizes of Substation Control Cables and Down Tower Cables. www.buyawg.com AFL Telecommunications AFL Telecommunications is a provider of fiber optic products, engineering expertise, and integrated services to the Windpower industry. AFL manufactures, engineers, and installs fiber optic products and equipment including fiber optic cable, hardware, closures, fiber management, and components. Their product capability for wind power generation turbine and towers include: tower cable assemblies, remote control equipment, cable harnesses, terminations, and relay panels. AFL also

9/4/08 10:36:

To learn more about how the EDA can provide your business with the innovative financing vehicles available through Clean Energy Solutions contact us today.

866-534-7789 www.njeda.com For more information about doing business in New Jersey visit www.NewJerseyBusiness.gov NACLE/090109

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide

Kalyn Siebert/Siebert Wind Kalyn Siebert offers a complete line of trailers for the transportation of all wind turbine components—towers, blades, and turbines. With wind being the largest and fastest growing segment of future renewable energy in the US, the new Siebert Wind line of specialized trailers provides a solution to the market’s need to safely haul larger loads. Siebert Wind is providing the industry with new levels of performance, reliability, and solutions that address the challenges facing the wind transportation industry. The Siebert Wind line includes the following products: 1013 axle deck trailers for nacelle transportation; blade trailers; Schnabel neck trailers for tower transportation; six-axle self-steer dollies for use with the Schnabel necks or dolly alone for tower transportation. www.truckpaper.com

Union Pacific Railroad Union Pacific Railroad, one of the largest railroads in North America, in conjunction with Union Pacific Distribution Services (UPDS) specializes in providing rail-based logistics solutions for the wind and solar industries. They offer customers a total logistics solution with industry leading shipment visibility to support efficient supply chains. They’re dedicated to the wind industry and transport virtually all wind project components—from the sand and steel at the site, to the complete turbine. Shipping by rail is inherently more economical and greener than truck. Union Pacific can move a ton of freight 830 miles on a single gallon of diesel fuel, the equivalent to 400 mpg in an automobile. www.up.com | www.upds.com

November / December 2009

United Specialized Trailer United Specialized Trailers are manufacturers of blade and Schnabel trailers. They have many unique features, which add up to huge benefits for the owner operator and operator—features such as 22.5 tires for better floatation that are easier to find and replace on the road. Plus, rollers on their beams allow them to slide in and out easily. No forklift needed. www.us-trailers.com

WIND ASSESSMENT/FORECASTING

AL-PRO Wind Energy Consulting Canada Inc. AL-PRO Wind Energy Consulting Canada Inc., a subsidiary of AL-PRO GmbH & Co. KG of Germany, provides wind energy consulting services to the North American market. AL-PRO provides a wide range of wind and yield analysis services to wind farm developers. The company’s newest service, the Global Microcasting Service (GMS), is the result of a partnership between AL-PRO GmbH & Co. KG of Germany and Weather Central Inc. of Madison, Wisconsin. By combining Weather Central’s global forecasting experience with AL-PRO’s wind farm modeling expertise, GMS was developed, which promises to be a revolutionary advancement in wind farm forecasting. The unique feature of this service is the coupling of mesoscale wind forecasting with 3D-CFD ﬂow simulations to provide detailed yield forecasts. www.al-pro.ca

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AXYS Technologies Inc. AXYS Technologies announced the recent completion of the world’s ﬁrst offshore wind resource assessment buoy, the WindSentinel. The buoy is currently undergoing validation tests prior to its commercial launch. The WindSentinel was designed to assist offshore wind farm developers determine the available wind resource at potential wind farm sites. It is the world’s ﬁrst wind resource assessment buoy capable of accurately measuring wind data at heights of conventional offshore wind turbines. Catch the Wind Inc’s Vindicator laser wind sensor, which is capable of measuring wind from a moving platform, is at the heart of the WindSentinel and is what makes this buoy possible. AXYS Technologies Inc. designs, manufactures, distributes and maintains remote environmental data acquisition, processing, and telemetry systems. www.axystechnologies.com

Campbell Scientific Inc. For over 35 years, Campbell Scientific has been manufacturing measurement and control dataloggers including the CR800, CR1000, and CR3000. These dataloggers are ideal for wind energy assessment and they provide reliable monitoring for a large variety of wind applications. Renewable energy researchers choose Campbell Scientific dataloggers because of their wide range of sensor compatibility, their reliability, and their multiple communication options. Their dataloggers can be programmed to record data for pre-installation research, and then for monitoring turbine power and performance. They offer rugged design, low power consumption, and versatility. The newest version of datalogger software, LoggerNet 4, really shines in applications that require telecommunications or scheduled data retrieval in large datalogger networks. Campbell Scientific has renewable-energy experts ready to help with wind resource applications. www.campbellsci.com/wind-energy

NRG Systems NRG Systems, manufacturer of wind measurement equipment for the global wind energy industry, has introduced a 34-meter system to support small-scale wind energy projects and wind energy research. The 34-meter complete system includes a tubular tilt-up tower, a SymphoniePLUS 15-channel data logger, three NRG #40C anemometers, a wind vane, and parts. Easily installed and portable, the system can be used in micro-siting or prospecting applications, or in remote locations where installation of taller towers may not be possible. NRG Systems is an independently owned company that has served the global wind energy industry for 27 years. www.nrgsystems.com

Otech Engineering, Inc. Otech Engineering, Inc. is an ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited laboratory providing anemometer test and calibration services performed in controlled wind tunnel facilities. As an accredited laboratory, Otech demonstrates technical competence for a deﬁned scope and for the operation of a quality management system. Otech is capable of conducting anemometer calibrations for up to 36 m/s with at best 0.475% uncertainty. Most instruments tested at Otech, such as cup anemometers, propeller anemometers, and sonic sensors, are deployed for measuring atmospheric winds. For 29 years Otech has been a major contributor in the wind energy industry. The company has performed over 100,000 anemometer calibrations maintaining the highest test quality and fast turnaround. With its expert and customized service, Otech continues to develop and maintain longstanding client relationships. www.otechwind.com 50_Equipment_Express.eps

9/2/09

AWS Truewind AWS Truewind provides renewable energy consulting and bankable energy production estimates based on validated methods. Their approach reduces risk and ensures projects are viewed with greater conﬁdence. Their responsive team exceeds expectations and delivers on commitments. Avoid overly optimistic long-term wind energy production estimates that can lead to poor decisions, unnecessary risk and disappointing results. Contact them today to ﬁnd out how AWS Truewind delivers performance. www.awstruewind.com

GENIVAR Wind As a complete wind energy engineering solutions provider with a 20-year track record, GENIVAR is actively sought as a wind resource analysis and farm design provider of choice, based on the company’s expertise and sharp focus on data quality control. GENIVAR employs proprietary WindServer data collection and resource monitoring software and custom tower installations to conduct location analysis and site selection for wind energy providers—with guaranteed success. www.genivarwind.com

8:29 AM

Logic Energy Ltd. Remote monitoring; real-time knowledge. Logic Energy Ltd. are wind logging and remote monitoring equipment specialist for green energy sources. Access data instantly from anywhere in the world at any time. Be in full control and one step ahead of customers. www.logic-energy.com www.windlogger.co.uk

Second Wind Second Wind’s mission is to advance and improve wind resource assessment technology. Second Wind’s Triton Wind Proﬁler is a remote sensing system used in wind resource assessment. Rugged, portable, and reliable, Triton measures wind up to 200 meters and provides data in near-real time via the company’s SkyServe satellite wind data service. Their Nomad 2 data loggers and tower-based systems are used in over 40 countries. www.secondwind.com

Vaisala, Inc. Vaisala, Xcel Energy, and the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) have joined forces on a pioneering pilot project for observing and forecasting wind energy production and exploring the use of a new wind observing and forecasting system in Xcel Energy’s wind power generation. The system will provide critical decision-making support for balancing wind power with traditional fossil fuel generation while minimizing costs and improving reliability. The focus is to develop technologies that better anticipate changes in wind energy output. Vaisala is providing surface weather stations, radar wind proﬁling capability, NLDN lightning data, and installation and operating services. NCAR will reﬁne a wind forecasting system that focuses on wind ramp detection. The network will be located around wind farms that total 400 MW of installed capacity. www.vaisala.com

North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide OTHER (wind turbine designs & components, grid interconnection)

3TIER 3TIER offers weather-driven renewable energy assessment and forecasting for wind, solar, and hydro power projects of all sizes. Trusted by top developers, operators, and ﬁnanciers around the world, 3TIER helps maximize the value of renewable resources while mitigating the risks of their inherent variability. Using sophisticated computer modeling systems, in-house expertise, and reliable delivery mechanisms, 3TIER provides the core data and knowledge to forecast both the short-term intermittency and the long-term availability of renewable energy. Through their methodology, the company creates advanced datasets that no one else in the renewable energy industry can offer. Founded in 1999, 3TIER is a privately-held, equal opportunity employer based in Seattle, WA, with ofﬁces around the world. www.3tier.com

American Superconductor American Superconductor (AMSC) produces a range of proven solutions for the wind industry. AMSC’s D-VAR stabilizes voltage levels by injecting dynamic reactive power (VARs) precisely where voltage problems occur. D-VARs enable wind farms to meet local grid interconnection requirements. AMSC’s D-VAR customers include more than 45 wind farms. AMSC Windtec provides licenses and customized designs for wind turbines from 750 kW to 10 MW. Customers receive unlimited service and support from the prototype stage to production and can begin manufacturing wind turbines in as little as 12 months. Based on its PowerModule power converter, AMSC also provides wind turbine electrical systems and components that provide DC to AC power conversion, control the operation and monitor wind turbine performance with an advanced SCADA and Condition Monitoring System. www.amsc.com

OTHER (blast cleaning robots)

Blastman Robotics Ltd. Blastman abrasive blasting robots set new standards in surface treatment by replacing manual and wheel blasting with modern automation technology. Robotic blasting is the most efﬁcient and costeffective method of cleaning large and heavyweight work pieces such as wind tower sections, hub castings, gearbox casings, and generator housings. Precisely directed high-velocity abrasive jet perfectly cleans even the most complicated objects, reaching all hidden areas and cavities without any need for manual touch-up. www.blastman.com

OTHER (wind power storage systems)

ClearSpan Fabric Structures International ClearSpan manufactures and ships fabric structures from its Dyersville, IA, facility, which is centrally located to provide fast and convenient delivery throughout the country. A ClearSpan Fabric Structure can be built up to 250' wide, in any length required, and with little to no foundation requirements. It can be constructed anywhere, in as little as two weeks. Applications include maintenance, operations, and storage facilities; durable fabric cover ﬁlters light, signiﬁcantly reducing energy usage and costs; and, temperature stabilizing properties keep building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Plus, these structures are easy to relocate (buildings can be taken down in as little as a few days), the frames are manufactured from recycled steel, and fabric covers are 100% recyclable. www.clearspan.com

OTHER (rolling system for wind tower fabrication)

DAVI DAVI, one of the world’s largest PLATE ROLL manufacturers developed, with Vestas and other market leaders, a special wind tower automation solution. With the DAVI WIND TOWER PRODUCTIVITY PACKAGE a wind tower cylinder is completed in less than 20 minutes with ONE operator. It is recognized as the most productive system available. More than 150 units are already installed worldwide at leading wind tower manufacturers. The systems high productivity is achieved through innovative solutions, automatically handling the process from the leading-edge pre-bending to tack welding alignment of the ﬁnished can, executed directly in the machine. No calibration is needed, as with a 3 roll. The Productivity Package eliminates the negative counter bending moment generated by the plate’s weight through a special tilting conveyor that improves pre-bending quality. www.davi.com

November / December 2009

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OTHER (circuit protection)

OTHER (public relations & marketing)

OTHER (community wind turbine mfg: 1kW to 1 MW)

OTHER (governmental and economic development services)

AM E R I C A, L LC.

Ferraz Shawmut Ferraz Shawmut has been highly involved in circuit protection for more than 100 years. A wide range of electrical protection products are available for the nacelle, utility, and tower base including Surge-Trap Surge Protective Devices (SPDs), Finger-safe Power Distribution Blocks (FSPDB), Time-delay Class J Fuses (AJT), E-Rated Medium Voltage Current-limiting Power Fuses, and more. A worldwide supplier of current-limiting fuses and accessories for overcurrent protection, Ferraz Shawmut products ensure the security of electrical components, systems, and the people who use them. http://us.ferrazshawmut.com/oem/resources/ literature http://us.ferrazshawmut.com

Green Pacific Green Pacific is a public relations and marketing communications firm helping green and clean technology companies draw attention in the media and market. Through traditional and new media, their award-winning team positions innovative wind, solar, and waste-to-energy technologies for market leadership. www.greenpacificpr.com

OTHER (wire & cable) Houston Wire & Cable Company Founded in 1975, Houston Wire & Cable Company (HWC) is a supplier of electrical and electronic wire and cable. HWC has an $80 million inventory availability of over 23,000 specialty wire and cable items from the industry’s leading manufacturers. LifeGuard cable is manufactured using low-smoke, zero-halogen compounds that provide many advantages and protection over standard constructions of cable. Highly engineered polymers developed after years of research has produced a new breed of cables that offer excellent electrical and mechanical characteristics, superior ﬂame resistance, low smoke production, and reduced toxicity. www.houwire.com

HPM America LLC One to one, HPM America is a total community wind provider. From 1kW to 1MW, HPM America has a size to ﬁt the requirements with a proven technology that delivers the next generation of wind power needed for diverse energy applications. Currently, they offer: 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 100, 500kW, and 1 MW turbines. www.hpmamerica.com

Idaho Department of Commerce Idaho is serious about renewable energy. The gem state is a perfect testing ground for renewable energy technologies, and alternative energy manufacturing companies are moving to tap into Idaho’s outstanding business climate. Idaho has a variety of elements that make it a viable laboratory and manufacturing center for the next step in power generation. Some of these elements include: the Idaho National Laboratory being in the forefront of renewable energy research, and Idaho’s ranking of second in the nation for patents per capita and manufacturing investment. Additionally, they have the third lowest energy costs in the 50 states, and are ranked ﬁfth best in the nation for long-term employment growth. It’s no wonder that Idaho’s alternative energy manufacturing base is on the rise. www.renewable.idaho.gov

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North American Clean Energy

2010 wind buyers guide OTHER (feedback encoders for yaw, blade pitch & rotor speed)

Industrial Encoder Corporation Industrial Encoder Corporation is a manufacturer of optical and magnetic rotary encoders widely used in the wind turbine industry. Their encoders are used for in the blade pitch measurement, yaw controller, as well as for rotor speed feedback. The company has manufacturing facilities in Canada, Germany, France and United Kingdom. www.globalencoder.com

OTHER (land management solutions)

LandWorks, Inc. LandWorks, Inc. is a provider of land asset management and GIS solutions to the wind energy industry. The LandWorks Property Management system (LPM) is a functionally rich software solution specifically designed for managing wind energy leases and options, met tower leases, rightsof-way and easements. LPM automates complex rental payments and production royalty payments through integration with SCADA sales and accounting systems. LPM also provides flexible and robust reporting with more than 40 standard reports. Land assets may be easily queried and reported by turbine, project, and sales point. The new LPM Project Management module fully supports developer work flows associated with new project set up and land rights acquisition in both LPM and the GIS. Project status maps are easily generated from the GIS. www.landworks.com

OTHER (torque tool certiﬁcation & calibration)

MobileCal MobileCal is pleased to offer ON-SITE torque tool certiﬁcation & calibration to the wind industry. Whether it’s for a developer, contractor, operator, or OEM, MobileCal will visit the location to calibrate the following: manual torque wrenches, hydraulic & pneumatic torque wrenches, multipliers, and pressure gauges up to 10,000psi. www.mobilecal.net

OTHER (tower/nacelle lighting and electrical service systems)

OTHER (new technology) Regenergy365 REgenergy365, a renewable energy technology start-up has launched its new website REgenergy365.com. Patents pending technology creates virtually free electricity from a renewable energy source never before considered. A 2010 product launch of the E.C.E.R.D. (Exhaust Capturing Electricity Regenerating Device) System is planned. This innovative electricity regeneration technology will be deployed into various applications throughout an unlimited global marketplace, creating billions of dollars of free electricity annually while measurably reducing air pollution and the carbon footprint of its users. The site describes the technology and its contribution to a cleaner and safer environment as well as potential early entry investor opportunities with information about the company and its future development and investor partner plans. www.regenergy365.com

OTHER (R&D)

Moltec Windpower Products, Inc. The ETL Listed, Quik-Fit II is a modular Plug & Play tower/nacelle lighting and power outlet system that is pre-engineered, prefabricated, and pre-tested for fast and simple installation, requiring no hand wiring. When compared to old school, Build-in-Place, hand wired systems, Quik-Fit II will assure the lowest installed cost. Moltec Windpower Products, Inc. will even design the system for clients and provide complete engineering documentation. No tools, guesswork, troubleshooting, or re-work; a mechanical installation only. Tower and nacelle fabricators also receive factory training and can become certified Quik-Fit II installers. Moltec also offers a range of grounding cables, custom cables and assemblies, and an entire range of flexible conduits and fittings for wind energy applications. www.moltecwind.com

TechnoCentre éolien Wind energy TechnoCentre The mission of the Wind energy TechnoCentre is to contribute to the development of an industrial wind energy network in Québec, able to compete on North American and world stages, while valorizing the Gaspé Peninsula and the Magdalen Islandsas—being central to this emerging niche of Quebec’s economy. Services include engineering, technical assistance, applied research, economic development, training, information, R&D in nordic climate, icing, product development, technology evaluation, technical support, personalized studies and projects, wind/diesel coupling, remote site, data analysis, standardization and certiﬁcation, technology transfer, equipment and research infrastructure rental, energy ﬁeld assessment, etc. www.eolien.qc.ca

OTHER (utility/economic development) VOLUME 3

ISSUE 6

Nebraska Public Power District Ranked among the top ten states for wind generation potential, Nebraska is the best location for renewable equipment manufacturers. Proximity to regional markets makes the state a strategic supply chain location, as well as a hub for timely delivery throughout America. Shipped by truck or rail, equipment can be delivered within hours, if not days. In addition, Nebraska offers competitive industrial electric rates and ample location possibilities. Renewable equipment manufacturers will find a partner in Nebraska Public Power District. The utility’s economic development team has assisted hundreds of companies, like major wind tower manufacturers, find productive and profitable locations in Nebraska. It does this by offering personal service and a comprehensive, searchable database of available buildings, sites, and communities. www.sites.nppd.com

November / December 2009

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PLUS Show in Print features… • CanSIA Solar Conference 2009 • POWER-GEN International

DESIGNED FOR OUR READERS AND OUR ADVERTISERS Go to www.nacleanenergy.com to see all our print content subscription and advertising information, and much more.

investing in clean energy

Hedging with Derivatives in Today’s Environment By Brian Harms & John Leonti

enewable energy related companies often employ hedging strategies using financial instruments, such as derivatives, to attempt to mitigate certain market risks. For example, end-users may seek to mitigate interest rate risk in connection with a financing or market price, or basis risk in connection with the generation of energy at a wind farm. The use of derivatives to mitigate adverse movements in the relevant market is not an easy task. This is especially true in today’s tight credit market and uncertain regulatory environment. As end-users seek to hedge market risk with derivatives, they must carefully consider the other risks presented by these transactions. End-users should consider: 1) credit risk; 2) regulatory risk; and, 3) operational risk [despite whether a derivatives transaction is an exchange-traded transaction or over-the-counter (OTC) transaction].

Credit risk

Credit risk in the derivatives context generally comes in two flavors: a counterparty’s credit exposure to the other counterparty, and the end-user placing its own credit at risk. Consequently, end-users need to have effective assessment and monitoring procedures in place to properly assess credit risk and protect against it. Unlike exchange-traded derivatives transactions where the exchange itself acts as the counterparty to the trade, OTC derivatives transactions are privately negotiated bilateral transactions between counterparties that are typically documented on the International Swaps and Derivatives Association Master Agreement. Without an intermediary or clearinghouse between the parties, each party has to review the other party’s creditworthiness and the risk of deteriorating credit. In a typical hedging arrangement, the parties will agree on credit support terms. These terms are set forth in a credit support annex and incorporated into a master agreement. For example, a counterparty may agree to post cash or letters of credit with its counterparty when the exposure a counterparty has to the market reaches a specified threshold amount. The threshold amount refers to the amount of unsecured exposure one counterparty is willing to accept with respect to the other counterparty before it will require credit support. Presumably, when entering into these terms, each of the counterparties is comfortable with the risk profile of the other (or else they would require upfront credit support). If a counterparty’s risk profile adversely changes during the trading relationship, the other counterparty will likely require additional credit support. To address this concern, many hedging arrangements provide for the reduction of the threshold amount and an increase in collateral requirements upon the degradation of the credit quality of a counterparty. To illustrate, the threshold amounts in the credit support annex may be linked to debt credit ratings. If a counterparty’s credit rating is downgraded (e.g., to A from A), the counterparty’s threshold amount would decrease (and its collateral requirements would effectively increase). This construct has flaws. If a counterparty experiences rapid financial decline, the other counterparty may find its counterparty bankrupt or insolvent by the time a ratings agency downgrades the counterparty’s credit rating (e.g., Lehman). A somewhat more flexible version of the credit clauses are referred to as adequate assurance clauses. These clauses allow a counterparty to seek additional collateral if those requesting have reasonable grounds to believe their counterparty’s creditworthiness or performance is unsatisfactory. Although less stringent than the credit rating downgrade clause, a counterparty must be able to reasonably demonstrate its basis for the additional credit support under an adequate assurance clause, which likely requires some objective facts to support the request. Experience shows adequate assurance requests will be ignored, rejected, and refused as much as possible. In a volatile market, adequate means to reduce exposure to a counterparty is paramount. For instance, an end-user may be comfortable with a $50 million exposure to a financial institution at the outset of a trading relationship. But what if the exposure with respect to transaction between the parties doubles or triples rapidly as result of price movement in the underlying asset? Did the end-user negotiate the appropriate thresholds? Are the thresholds too high? Does the end-user now have to consider hedging the counterparty risk? What risks are now introduced? Documentation cannot replace diligence. End-users must continuously assess their counterparty’s creditworthiness.

As an alternative to OTC derivatives products, an end-user might be able to hedge its risk with the use of exchange-traded derivatives products. Although the use of exchangetraded futures products mitigates counterparty credit risk, these products are non-negotiated contracts with limited terms and introduce additional costs—as well as margin risk, since exchange trading requires participants to provide initial margin to open a (buy or sell) position and to maintain a minimum amount of margin until the position is closed. In the event of an untimely decrease in the value of an end-user’ account that results in a margin call by an exchange or broker, an end-user could find themselves short on cash or, if the position had to be closed-out because the end-user could not meet the margin call, taking a loss (and losing its hedge position).

Milbank 30 years of experience in renewable energy Over 180 successful deals completed More than 9,000 MW of renewable power developed We get this business.

Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP New York Los Angeles Washington DC London Munich Frankfurt Beijing Hong Kong Singapore Tokyo www.milbank.com

For more details, contact: Ed Feo 213-892-4417 efeo@milbank.com

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

North American Clean Energy

investing in clean energy Whether it is credit exposure to another party or your own credit at risk, end-users need internal policies and procedures and sound hedging documentation to effectively assess, monitor, and protect against credit risks.

nificant price discovery. It has already used this authority in the carbon trading markets. On August 17th, 2009, the CFTC asked for public comment to consider whether the Carbon Financial Instrument (CFI) contract traded on the Chicago Climate Exchange performs as a significant price discovery contract. If the CFTC classifies the CFI contract as a significant Regulatory risk price discovery contract, the CFTC would gain additional oversight authority over the CFI Regulatory risk involves the risk related to how new laws, rules, and regulations will treat contract, subjecting the CFI contract and market participants to, among other things, the the derivatives market. The derivatives market has been under increased scrutiny. Last CFTC’s large trader reporting requirements, positions limits and emergency authorities. summer, the CFTC obtained new authority to impose additional regulatory and reporting On the OTC derivatives front, the passage of separate OTC derivatives legislation by requirements on certain electronic trading facilities that trade contracts that perform a sigthe US House Agriculture Committee and Financial Services Committee moved the OTC derivatives market a step closer to being subject to comprehensive regulation. Exactly how this plays out is left to be to seen, but the legislation to date has certainly raised questions and concerns among derivatives market participants. What is meant by “standardized” derivatives contract? Will vancouver convention centre, canada end-users be required to clear some or all of their trades? What type of reporting and registration requirements will be required? Although new laws and regulations may not affect the enforceability of a derivatives contract, they could cause unintended consequences that frustrate each of the counterparties’ intent. Those in the renewable energy space are all too familiar with this type of risk. Participants in renewable portfolio standard (RPS) compliance programs frequently express concern that changes in law regarding the RPS program could adversely impact their renewable energy credit (REC) agreements. RPS participants, therefore, seek to allocate change-in-law risk under REC agreements. End-users now need 11TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE & TRADE FAIR ON BUSINESS & THE ENVIRONMENT to take a similar view regarding regulatory risk 11,000 participants, 2,000 conference delegates, 450 exhibitors, 70 countries represented, 1 opportunity not to be missed in connection with their derivatives contracts. They should be working with counterparties to appropriately plan for, and allocate the risk of, regulatory changes.

march 24–26

Powering the Future

Energy prices are volatile; accessibility and security of fossil fuel supplies questionable; and conservation and efﬁciency are the new priorities. Change is inevitable, but what will the future hold? Join industry experts from around the world at GLOBE™ 2010 as they discuss how they are managing uncertainty and share their future visions.

Session Topics

Conference Themes

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• Climate Change + Carbon Management

• Bioenergy: Fueling the Development of a Low Carbon Economy

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• Low Carbon Shipping

• Finance

• Energizing Our Cities

• Making Cities Sustainable

• North American Energy Dialogue Sponsors and supporters:

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Operational risk

Derivatives are a highly complex part of the finance world and, therefore, end-users need to have personnel with specialized skills that can understand and value derivatives and their associated risks. However, for varying reasons some end-users use derivatives without skilled personnel and, in some instances, look to their counterparties for guidance. This is a recipe for disaster. Notwithstanding the inherent conflicts that exist between counterparties, a counterparty is not likely to understand the end-user’s specific risks and needs. End-users that do not have a welltrained team will be unable to appropriately assess credit or regulatory risk, and may find themselves at the wrong end of a trade. In today’s environment, a successful hedging strategy requires end-users to continuously review and assess credit, regulatory, and operational risks associated with their derivatives trades. Let’s get to work! Brian Harms is a partner with Troutman Sanders in the firm’s Atlanta office, and John Leonti is an associate with Troutman Sanders in the firm’s New York office. Troutman Sanders LLP www.troutmansanders.com

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30/10/09 4:07 PM

Wind Energy and the Canadian Commercial Bank By Thomas J Timmins

here has yet to be a Canadian commercial bank directly involved in wind energy development. This is not surprising. Canada’s banks observe some of the most conservative lending guidelines in the world. That said, having avoided the worst of the sub-prime credit crisis, which undid so many of their competitors to the south, Canada’s gigantic commercial banks are on the move once again, looking for assets to lend against. Wind energy is proven, reliable, and growing. Furthermore, across Canada, provincial governments have acted almost unanimously to remove regulatory hurdles and establish attractive state-backed, power off-take pricing arrangements. The combination of reliable revenue streams, friendly regulatory environs, rapid industry growth, and the continuing maturation of the sector means that Canada’s commercial banks will, eventually, develop an appetite for the sector.

Where to enter?

Commercial banks function efficiently in industry settings where credit analysis, due diligence processes, and collateral documentation can be systematized and, to a greater or lesser extent, commoditized. In wind energy, financing opportunities obviously arise long before the actual construction or operation of a wind farm. A bank could, in theory, acquire a security interest in land option rights, land lease interests, and even easement interests. It could even take an interest in met-tower equipment, met-data, development plans, and several other early stage wind development assets. This type of development lending would provide much-needed early stage growth financing, but it is unlikely at this juncture. In light of their risk tolerance appetites and the need to reduce transaction costs through credit process and documentation process standardization, Canada’s commercial banks are most likely to enter the wind market as “take-out” lenders rather than as development financiers. In other words, Canada’s commercial banks will need to get used to financing already built developments before they can even contemplate project development finance. Wind is a relatively new industry in North America and, as any experienced developer w would attest, project risks remain high throughout each of the development stages of a wind energy project—even after a power purchase agreement is in place and construction contracts have been awarded.

reports; legal reviews of all land title matters, power purchase arrangements, product warranties, operating and maintenance contracts, provincial and municipal agreements, laws, bylaws, and regulations; and, independent valuation appraisals of the land interests held and the equipment owned by the project developer. What it means

Wind energy is ready for commercial bank financing and it can be expected that Canadian commercial banks will enter this sector in the near future as take-out lenders first, with project development financing to follow sometime later. Industry participants should expect Canadian commercial bankers to follow traditions and protocols similar to those they have utilized for a half-century or more in commercial real estate finance and real estate development finance. As such, in order to keep financing options open, it would be a good idea for project developers to assume they may one day be sitting in front of a bank lender, to make sure that land title interests are properly documented and fully assignable, to ensure that personal property interests are assignable and will remain so after construction, and to begin early to develop a financing package that will stand up to independent legal and consultant review. In other words, industry participants should expect commercial bank style financing commitments and security packages and plan for them. The entry of Canada’s large commercial banks into the wind energy sector will bring about exciting changes to the industry. It will catalyze industry competition, lead to the evolution of development standards, sponsor credit modelling and assessment norms, drive resource assessment industry best practices, put downward pressure legal documentation costs, normalize capital pricing, and even impact the development of post-warranty operation and maintenance services and project insurance facilities. The result will be better access to capital, more standardized industry practices, more predictable development and operation costs and, generally, a better environment for both lenders and borrowers. Put succinctly, the power of Canada’s vast commercial bank to impact the development of the North American wind energy industry sector cannot be overstated. Thomas J Timmins is chair of the Wind Energy Law Practice Group at the Canadian law firm Dale & Lessmann LLP. Timmins acts regularly on behalf of wind developers, wind industry suppliers, project development financiers, and take-out debt lenders in Canada, and has participated in the development of several of Canada’s largest wind Dale & Lessmann LLP | www.dalelessmann.com

How to enter: advancing credit to a project

As with any financing, numerous assurances will be required before a lender can advance funds. As commercial lending to the wind industry develops, one can expect to see standardized commercial bank lending documentation evolve to require the following items as a matter of course: the assignment of the developer’s interest in the relevant power purchase agreement, operation and maintenance contracts, land rights agreements, attributable carbon credits, equipment interests, licenses, permits and insurance policies; the establishment of notice requirements regarding material changes, non-compliance with environmental laws, changes of ownership, and third party defaults; the provision of personal and/or related company guarantees; comprehensive environmental assurances; and, of course, restrictive undertakings with regard to further borrowing. In addition to the representations, warranties, covenants, and assignment that will be required, commercial bank lenders will also develop standardized due diligence protocols including: independent expert reviews of wind data and environmental

We Know Renewable Energy represented clients in energy matters since the 1920s, and our climate change practice has been active for nearly two decades. From this foundation of experience, we have developed a dynamic renewable energy practice that advises clients worldwide at every stage, from investment and tax structuring to development, construction and operation. As your plans for solar, wind and renewable energy projects emerge, put the energy of our lawyers to work for you. For more information, contact: Philip Spector - 212.704.6004 phil.spector@troutmansanders.com

Craig Kline - 212.704.6150 craig.kline@troutmansanders.com

Todd Coles - 202.274.2810 todd.coles@troutmansanders.com

Brian Harms - 404.885.3682 brian.harms@troutmansanders.com

Ronald Ross - 202.274.2963 ronald.ross@troutmansanders.com

700 lawyers | 50 practice areas | troutmansanders.com/renewable_energy

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CanSIA

CanSIA Solar Conference 2009 Show in Print Features just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this year’s show.

December 7th & 8th, 2009 | Westin Harbour Castle; Toronto, Ontario

www.cansia.ca Conference themes include industry and technical updates, government activities, research and development, as well as attracting more investors.

Complete PV systems As a top supplier for all areas of industry and energy, Siemens delivers everything from single photovoltaic systems to entire PV power plants. Their products, systems, and solutions allow users to invest in a bright future by benefiting from the efficient utilization of regenerated energy for specific needs. SINVERT provides high reliability as these inverters are based on standard Siemens components, such as MASTERDRIVE and SINAMICS converters. Their reliability and long service life have been successfully proven in industrial applications. Siemens places particular importance on a high standard of quality and long-term availability, also where spare parts are concerned. In short: best quality for an excellent yield of any PV system. Siemens | www.siemens.com/sinvert

Universal module aluminum clamp Schletter, Inc.’s new universal module clamp significantly decreases PV module installation time. Rapid Clamp is a completely pre-assembled PV module clamp that simplifies the framed panel mounting process. The Rapid Clamp is a 100mmlong aluminum clamp with an integrated stainless steel bolt and nut. There are no separate components (nuts, bolts, clamps) to handle or assemble. The clamp easily snaps into all Schletter standard module carrying rails, remains in place or can be slid within the rail until it is positioned and tightened from the top. Since the Rapid Clamp works with all framed PV modules, there is no need to stock different clamps for different modules and thus may serve to reduce associated inventory control costs. Manufacturing and distribution of the clamp will begin in Tucson, AZ in January, 2010. Schletter, Inc. | Schletter GmbH www.schletter-inc.us | www.schletter.de

Reactor power supplies for Polysilicon industry ABB has announced that its Advanced Power Electronics business in North America designs and manufactures both Trichlorosilane (TCS) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) reactor type power supply equipment for the polysilicon industry. As part of ABB’s strategy to be the complete systems provider of power supply equipment for the polysilicon industry, ABB’s solutions are often based on integrating standard, proven ABB product building blocks into customized solutions to meet specific customer application requirements. ABB’s power supply units can be complete packaged systems including the main input transformer, power electronic assemblies, and local controls all-in-one enclosure. ABB Inc. | www.abb.com/powerelectronics

Solar electric modules Day4 Energy Inc. announced the expansion of its product offering to include the Day4 60MC-I featuring the breakthrough Guardian Technology. Guardian Technology dramatically improves the performance of PV modules when exposed to partial shading, snow, debris, and other external factors that under normal circumstances cause a substantial reduction in power yield. As a direct result, Day4 60MC-I modules with Guardian Technology are three times less sensitive to external factors. They also offer as much as 25% greater power yield from the same installation area due to higher installation density and enable viable PV installations on many sites that have been previously considered not suitable for this purpose. This new development builds on the Day4(R) Electrode platform, which is an advanced construction technology that directly replaces the decadesold soldering methods that are widely used to manufacture solar panels. By improving connections to and between PV cells, the Day4 Electrode delivers quality solar electric products with higher performance, longer lifetime, improved aesthetics, and lower cost. Guardian Technology is applicable to a wide variety of PV cell designs including back contact cell concepts and high-efficiency cell designs currently under development at Day4 Energy. Day4 Energy Inc. www.day4energy.com

November / December 2009

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CanSIA Solar-powered parking-lot light Carmanah Technologies unveiled the newest design in solar LED lighting: the EverGEN 1710 solar-powered area light. Designed as a compact stand-alone lighting alternative for off-grid parking lots and other municipal, commercial, or industrial areas, the new EverGEN 1710 light combines advanced motion-sensing capabilities with a range of energy saving operating profiles to ensure bright, reliable illumination whenever and wherever it’s needed. Featuring a dark-sky friendly LED fixture designed by industry leading lighting manufacturer BetaLED, the EverGEN 1710 solar light incorporates all of the elements of a complete solar power system in a compact, pole-mounted design developed by world-renowned global innovation firm frog design. The EverGEN 1710 solar light is scheduled for availability in early 2010.

Solar water heaters North American Solar Solutions is a solar water heater company specializing in wholesale, manufacturing, and engineering. They sell to authorized dealers and the public. North American Solar Solutions delivers complete units and service parts in North and South America, with products currently being sold in more than 21 countries. All units are manufactured under ISO, Keymark, and CE specifications. All of the solar units are warranted against any manufacturing defects. North American Solar Solutions will, from now on, only supply full solar units as per European standards, which means all units for household use will be fully manufactured of stainless steel (304 Food Gradable) and aluminum or stainless steel frames to support a solar system. All bolts supplied will be graded stainless. They also complete the package to be certified for integrated systems under Canadian Safety Association. The website will be reflecting all changes in the next few months—purchase an item, and North American Solar Solutions will upgrade the system to stainless steel at their expense.

Carmanah Technologies | www.carmanah.com

North American Solar Solutions www.nasolarsolutions.com

Solar mounting systems New clamp for standing seam metal roofs ThinkSolar has partnered with S-5! to design the most versatile S-5! clamp yet for standing seam metal rooftops. With the new ThinkSolar S-5!, installers can mount rail (via an L Foot) or attach mid/end clamps directly. No other S-5! can satisfy both these applications. The ThinkSolar S-5! consists of two different sized threads on the top of the clamp, making it useful for any mounting application. ThinkSolar is a national wholesale product distributor and project integrator. As a subsidiary of SolarMarkt AG, founded in 1985 in Germany, ThinkSolar provides wholesale solar products, engineering expertise, and project management services.

Upcoming Exhibtions and Events:

CanSIA CanSIA Solar Conference December 07 – 08, 2009; Toronto

ThinkSolar | www.thinksolar-us.com

North American Clean Energy

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Grid-tied and off-grid PV solar solutions Honeybee Solar delivers continuity in their service and products. They have the expertise to provide grid-tied or off the grid photovoltaic solar solutions in Ontario, Canada. Honeybee Solar has the ability to implement all size systems, from small residential to large commercial applications for both rooftop or ground mounted solar arrays. The company services all of Ontario, and they are ready to comply with the new feed-in tariff rules including the Ontario Content Rules. Honeybee Solar is proud to offer integrated product solutions and superior project management to their clients. Let Honeybee assist in building a green future while adding to one’s financial well being. Honeybee Solar | www.honeybeesolar.com

High-efﬁciency solar air heating systems Mc2Energy offers innovative solar air heating systems for residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional application. With over 70% efficiency, each solar collector generates up to 2000 watts of thermal energy. The solar heat is absorbed through high-technology, dark-colored absorbent plates located under an extra clear tempered glass. Based on needs, a probe-controlled fan automatically transfers the heat from the plates to the building’s interior air. Recognized by the HVAC and building professionals, the ESOLAIR 2.0 air heating system has been awarded the 2009 Contech Sustainable Development Innovation trophy in the Residential Building – Technologies and innovative products category, as well as the MCEE Best Innovative Design in Energy Efficiency and the MCEE People’s Choice Award. Mc2Energy | www.mc2energy.net

High-energy solar collector With nearly two decades of experience, Matrix Energy, a developer and systems integrator of renewable energy solutions, introduces the new MatrixAir BP, Backpass System. Their objective in developing the BP system was to produce an easy to implement and architecturally pleasing solar collector that could generate the highest energy output possible at the lowest cost. The MatrixAir BP system succeeds in providing superior energy output than conventional backpass collectors and gives engineers and architects a more efficient and affordable solar air heating system for façade-mounted industrial, commercial, agricultural, or institutional applications. Matrix Energy has designed and optimized this low cost, unglazed, solar air heating system to provide a nominal flow of 75 CFM of pre-heated ventilation or make-up air per foot of collector width or 120 l/s per metre of collector width.

Renewable energy components With the need for new power sources, Sb Marketing Inc. is acting as the sales organization for the following supplier partners: ED Products (for electrical wire, harness cable assemblies, control and panel wiring, etc.); Pine Hill Machine (for Bar Fed CNC Turning, CNC Milling and Assembly); and, RJ Metal Fabricators (for light gauge turret press, braking, forming, heavy fabrication, and weldmets). They are also partnering with Centennial Solar (manufacturer of solar panels) for Ontario-made 130 W and 210 W panels. Wind energy, biomass, and all renewable energy systems manufacturers and distributors are invited to make use of their manufacturing facilities. Sb Marketing Inc. | www.sbmarketing.on.ca

Matrix Energy | www.matrixenergy.ca

Utility grade solar PV solution Software solutions Pyramid Solar Ltd. is demonstrating software solutions from Vela Solaris. The Polysun family is one of the world’s most flexible and accurate software for the simulation and design of renewable energy systems optimized for any particular site and structure. Polysun takes input for variables in building design, energy system components, and climactic variables to create a highly accurate energy analysis and system design that can be tailored to any site and structure. What’s new is that Polysun’s solar cooling simulation allows for system variants to be easily compared, choosing between compression cooling machines, solar cooling, and free cooling. Solar cooling has the ability to not only efficiently cool in the summer, but to also heat hot water and buildings in the winter. Polysun’s solar cooling simulation allows a user to look at a system as a whole and answer pertinent questions that allow for a more complete simulation, which then results in optimized results for system optimization, communication, and documentation. Pyramid Solar Ltd. | www.pyramidsolar.ca

Satcon Technology Corporation, provider of utility scale power solutions for the renewable energy market, recently announced the general availability of Satcon Solstice, the industry’s first complete utility grade solar PV solution for large-scale solar power plants. Satcon Solstice revolutionizes energy production, while utilizing traditional solar design. It delivers fine grained power harvesting and control with advanced utility ready grid interconnection, and will boost total power production by 5% to 12% over designs using standard inverters while at the same time reduce overall system material costs. Building on Satcon’s leading solar PV inverter technologies, Solstice is the next generation of solar PV power harvesting. It is the industry’s first complete power conversion system, utilizing Satcon’s next generation inverter and unique subcombiners, called SSBs, which are populated with Satcon’s proprietary dc to dc power converters. The fine grained harvesting of each panel string provided by the dc to dc conversion stage, coupled with a highly efficient inverter design, ensures the platform will deliver more power over the lifetime of the PV system, while lowering the overall installed cost of the of the power plant. Satcon Technology Corporation | www.satcon.com/pv_inverters/solstice.html

High-frequency series inverter SMA America LLC has unveiled the next generation of the Sunny Boy—the world’s most popular line of solar inverters. The new, highfrequency grid-tied inverters feature a slim enclosure, reduced weight, and modern graphic display, making them the most installer-friendly models to date. The HF models measure less than 14 inches across and features a 35% reduction in weight, allowing them to be mounted in between wall studs, and making them perfect for new home construction or for retrofit projects where space is a concern. Available in three configurations, ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 watts, the next generation inverters are the first US units to utilize a highfrequency transformer. In addition to their industry leading efficiency and reliability, the lighter weight Sunny Boy inverters have improved key existing features, such as field configurability for positive ground systems and integrated DC disconnects, making installation easier than ever. SMA America LLC | www.sma-america.com

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CanSIA

BOS products for PV applications Wiley Electronics designs and manufactures balance of system products for photovoltaic applications. Their developments in shading analysis, PV grounding, and wire management create high-performance systems and fuel innovation throughout the industry. For custom applications, their engineering expertise provides timely solutions for the most demanding requirements. Wiley Electronics | www.we-llc.com

Large-scale solar-thermal systems The results of nearly 20 years of Paradigma research, development, as well as practical experience with more than 30,000 already realized solar systems (according to the AquaSystem principle) gives enough evidence that CPC-ETC technology, with pure water as heat transfer fluid, is probably the most promising way to realize large-scale solar-thermal systems (LSS). It is also one of the most demanding solar-thermal systems available. High-temperature collectors increase the efficiency factor, allow an all-season application, and are the key for effective heat storage. XL Solar | www.xl-solar.de

Interactive, software, and business intelligence The Jonah Group is pleased to celebrate the recent launch of the new canSIA website (www.cansia.ca), after several months of highly creative collaboration. The new website enables canSIA to serve its membership with greater immediacy, versatility, and efficiency. Since 2001, Jonah Group has designed and built custom online solutions for agile enterprises. As a progressive firm, they are responsible energy users and strong supporters of the Canadian Solar Industry. In addition to designing and developing the new canSIA website, they are currently working with Helios Energy and are keen to explore other opportunities to add value to other canSIA member businesses. Their expertise extends from social media to systems integration to business intelligence and beyond. The Jonah Group www.jonahgroup.com

North American Clean Energy

show in print Renewable energy economic developments

Infrastructure and energy practice

OYA Solar Inc, a subsidiary of OYA Ventures LLC, designs, develops, and operates socially responsible renewable energy projects that promote economic development across the globe. Its mission is to provide access to reliable renewable energy to address the challenges of energy independence. With planned projects in Canada, the US, Africa, and South Asia, they are committed to reducing the global carbon-based energy footprint and creating a more sustainable global economy. In Ontario, OYA is taking an active role in developing one of the largest distributed photovoltaic (PV) solar farms in Ontario, utilizing the province’s new feed-in tariff structure. Through OYA’s Certified “Green Skies” Partner Program, they work with a limited number of industrial and commercial real estate partners to design, build, operate, and maintain grid-connected solar electricity generation facilities throughout the province.

Torys’ cross-border, multidisciplinary energy practice has significant expertise in developing, financing, acquiring, and selling energy projects, having represented many prominent energy companies, mid-market and emerging growth enterprises, financial investors, developers, lenders, contractors, and First Nations. They provide ongoing advice to electricity distributors and transmitters, as well as natural gas distributors, transmitters, and storage companies. Torys’ practitioners regularly advise on power projects and transactions in Canada, the US, Mexico, Central America, South America, and Asia. They have assisted clients with virtually every commercial power technology, from natural gas, nuclear, CCGT, and coal to wind, solar, hydro, fuel cells, biomass, and other renewables. Their distinction is their combination of deep industry expertise and exceptionally strong project development, finance, M&A, and regulatory expertise. With a solid understanding of the variety of issues and stakeholder interests in energy projects, they advise on the full spectrum of legal and strategic issues in the energy project cycle.

OYA Solar Inc. | www.oyasolar.ca

Torys LLP | www.torys.com

Management software Alternative energy focused R&D region Sarnia-Lambton is home to the western hemisphere’s largest announced solar farm. They provide an excellent location for manufacturing solar panels and components. Companies can benefit from the area’s affordable and modern industrial infrastructure. Located on the Ontario – Michigan USA border, Sarnia-Lambton provides immediate access to the Great Lakes industrial corridor. Situated on major road, rail, water, and air transportation routes, Sarnia-Lambton is three hours to Toronto, Ontario, and one hour to Detroit, Michigan, via major highways. Benefit from significant cluster power in chemicals, manufacturing, and power generation. Enjoy access to a productive, technically oriented workforce and seven world-class universities and colleges in southern Ontario. Alternative energy focused R&D is underway in the community. SarniaLambton is home to Canada’s Bio-industrial Innovation Centre and The Research Park, operated by the University of Western Ontario. (Canada/Ontario offers the most favorable tax treatment for R&D among the G7.) Five municipal industrial parks provide affordable serviced land. Sarnia-Lambton is realizing its strong community vision of becoming a leading alternative energy centre. The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership | www.sarnialambton.on.ca

Microprocessorbased solar thermal differential controllers Sprockhovel, Germany-based SOREL Mikroelektronik GmbH has introduced the TDC series of microprocessor-based solar thermal differential controllers to the markets in the US and Canada. All models utilize a large, backlit dot matrix LCD display and four entry keys to promote ease of operation. The system’s current operating status, configuration, and logged data can be displayed in clearly written text and graphical representation without the need for a technical manuals or separate hardware. Logged data can be stored internally for up to four years and can be viewed directly on the controller’s LCD display. The SOREL TDC1, TDC2, TDC3, TDC4, and TDC5 are available in both 115 VAC and 230 VAC versions. All five models are certified to UL and CSA standards and include basic data logging as a standard feature. Model-specific features, such as variable-speed pump control, east/west panel configurations, multiple storage tanks, vortex flow measurement, enhanced data logging, and fully integrated network interfaces are available. All SOREL products are exclusively marketed in the US and Canada by Helios Solar SOREL Mikroelektronik GmbH | www.sorel.de | www.heliossolar.com

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Today’s sustainable energy sector is enjoying rapid expansion and enormous opportunities for production and sales. This type of explosive growth requires and integrated business management solution, which will support manufacturing and supply chain processes, as well as accounting standards. The Createch Group and Microsoft Dynamics NAV deliver the management software your organizations need to streamline operations, provide transparency, and manage the most critical business processes now and in the future. User-friendly, simple, and complete, Microsoft Dynamics NAV enables companies to achieve their business objectives and to efficiently face the challenges that are unique to their industry. Founded in 1993, The Createch Group provides business process transformation and information technology integration. The firm helps its clients to improve their operational efficiency by integrating proven solutions and leading business practices. The Createch Group | www.thecreatechgroup.com

BOS solar installations Tigo Energy, the balance-of-system (BOS) company whose technology significantly improves efficiency in PV solar installations, is launching its “Module Maximizer ES” to accompany the company’s Module Maximizer- EP System, first introduced earlier this year. While the “Module Maximizer EP” consists of modulelevel power electronics that run in parallel topologies, the “Module Maximizer ES” operates in serial. The Module Maximizer ES has unprecedented conversion efficiency and is designed to work with inverters from leading manufacturers without modification. The MM- ES is considered perfectly suited for retrofit installations without changes in wiring. With an MSRP of US$56, it is also affordable and available from solar distributors around the globe. The MMEP offers extreme flexibility, which is perfect for high-voltage, BIPV, or floating systems, while providing the BOS cost reductions associated with long branch lengths afforded by the parallel topology. Tigo Energy | www.tigoenergy.com

Advanced power electronics Xantrex Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, develops, manufactures, and markets advanced power electronic products and systems for the renewable and mobile power markets. The company’s products convert and control raw electrical power from any central, distributed, renewable, or back-up power source into high-quality power required by electronic equipment and the electricity grid. Xantrex is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with facilities in the US, Germany, Spain, India, and a joint venture in China. Xantrex Technology Inc. | www.xantrex.com

geothermal energy

How Heating, Cooling & Electricity are Produced by Geothermal Energy

he term “geothermal” is derived from the Greek words for earth (“geo”) and heat (“therme”). In essence, geothermal energy is power harnessed from the earth itself. Heat from the earth’s core, which averages about 6,650 degrees Fahrenheit, emanates out toward the planet’s surface. Heated springs and geysers up to three miles underground can be accessed by special wells that bring the hot water (or steam from it) up to the surface, where it can be used directly for heat or indirectly to generate electricity by powering rotating turbines. Since the water under the earth’s surface is constantly replenished, and the earth’s core will continue to generate heat indefinitely, geothermal power is ultimately clean and renewable. Today, there are three main methods for harvesting utility grade geothermal energy: dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle. The dry steam process brings steam up directly from below to drive turbines that power electricity generators. Flash steam plants bring the hot water itself up from below; it is then sprayed into a tank to create steam to drive the turbines. These two methods are the most common, generating hundreds of megawatts of electricity across the American West, Europe, and elsewhere. But expansion is limited as these plants only work in tectonic regions where it is easier to access ground heated water. The binary cycle technology extracts close-to-the surface warm (not necessarily hot) water and combines it with a second (“binary”) fluid, like butane or pentane, which has a low boiling point. This fluid is then pumped through a heat exchanger, where it is vaporized and sent through a turbine before being recycled back into the system. Binary cycle geothermal plants already pump out dozens of megawatts of electricity in California, Nevada, and Hawaii, among other places.

But geothermal isn’t just for utilities. Homeowners looking to go green and lower their utility bills can install a residential system, essentially a scaled-down version of the binary cycle system. A series of pipes is installed underground. Water circulating in the loop is heated naturally underground and then transferred to a heat exchanger, which concentrate the energy and releases it inside the home as heat. In summer and in warmer climates, the process is reversed to fill the home with geothermal-cooled air. Geothermal has its drawbacks. For homeowners, it may be hard to justify the upfront expense of $7,500 or more to install a system, though the IRS now offers tax credits for 30% of the cost. At the utility level, geothermal plants are costly to build and operate. And, finding a suitable site requires digging expensive test wells with no guarantee of hitting a productive underground hot spot. Nevertheless, analysts expect utility grade geothermal capacity to nearly double over the next six years. The Obama administration has set aside $750 million for geothermal development, and Congress has also been generous, allocating $129 million to the Department of Energy for various geothermal programs. Geothermal may be in its infancy in the US, but it is a big player in Iceland, which derives 26.5% of its electricity needs from geothermal, and in New Zealand, which gets 10% of its electricity likewise. Article courtesy of EarthTalk (www.emagazine.com). DOE Consumer Energy Tax Incentives | www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm Geothermal Energy Association | www.geo-energy.org

Recovery Act Investments Geothermal energy gains $338 million Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) leadership lauded Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu’s October 29th announcement that $338 million of American Reinvestment and Recovery Act grants had been awarded to support geothermal research, development, demonstration, and deployment in more than 40 states. “This is an unprecedented federal investment in geothermal energy,” said Dr Curt Robinson, GRC’s executive director. “Finally, this source of clean, renewable, base-load energy will be developed and utilized. The $338 million represents a major commitment by the federal government to get this source of energy contributing to the grid.” States receiving large federal grants included Nevada ($93 million), Oregon ($39 million), California ($27 million), and Colorado ($18 million). Several companies scored big with the federal grants: AltaRock ($26.4 million), TGP Development Company ($14 million), Ormat Nevada ($13.7), Naknek Electric Association ($12.3 million), and GE ($10.9). Public groups that received support include: Geological Surveys from 40 states ($17.7 million), Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory ($7 million), El Paso County ($5 million), and the Colorado Department of Personnel and Administration ($4.6 million)

Funds will also go to some of the nation’s most innovative universities: Southern Methodist University ($5.2 million), Ball State University ($5 million), Utah State University ($4.6 million), University of Alaska ($4.6 million), University of Utah ($2.8 million), the University of Kansas ($2.4 million), and the University of Nevada ($2.2 million). Research will take place in several areas of interest: innovative exploration and drilling projects; coproduced, geo-pressured, and low-temperature projects; enhanced geothermal systems (EGS); EGS components research, development, and analysis; geothermal data development, collection, and maintenance; and geothermal heat pump demonstration projects. “Geothermal energy is a clean, constant, reliable, dependable, and safe source of energy,” Robinson concluded. The Geothermal Resources Council, founded in 1970, is an international nonprofit educational and scientific organization, located in Davis, California. Geothermal Resources Council (GRC) | www.geothermal.org

North American Clean Energy

geothermal energy

An Economically Sustainable Future Alaska’s innovative geothermal project could fuel the region By Laura Tanis | Photos courtesy of the City of Akutan (www.aleutianseast.org)

geophysical survey team is using electro-magnetic probes in the remote community of Akutan, Alaska to help investigate the potential of the nearby geothermal resource. If a significant resource is identified, this would potentially allow the Eastern Aleutian region to realize a clean, inexpensive, and reliable source of energy. Currently, the city of Akutan (Akutan is located on Akutan Island in the eastern Aleutians, off the southwest tip of the Alaska Peninsula, between the Bering Sea and the north Pacific Ocean. Population: 713) and Trident Seafoods, a large plant that operates within the community, use a combined peak of 7 MW of diesel-

generated power. The city’s power cost exceeds $0.32 per kWh. Development of power from the Akutan geothermal project would eliminate the dependence on diesel fuel, reduce carbon emissions, and promote economic and cultural sustainability of Akutan and the region. Geothermal energy is an environmentally friendly source of renewable energy that harnesses the natural power of steam from the earth to generate electricity and heat while producing almost no greenhouse emissions. This cost-effective energy source is located right in Akutan’s backyard. The only question is whether it is economically feasible to develop the geothermal energy. The geophysical survey is using electro-magnetic probes to detect subsurface electrical patterns, which will be studied to help locate the geothermal reservoir. The technical team established a base camp in Hot Springs Bay Valley on Akutan Island. Team members will conduct testing of as many as 50 locations. “We are working closely with the Akutan Village Corporation, the Akutan Traditional Tribal Council, the Aleut Corporation, Trident Seafoods, and our residents to develop a geothermal power and heating resource to replace our dependence on diesel fuel,” said city Mayor Joe Bereskin. “It’s an exciting, long-term project,

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November / December 2009

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GILBERT, AZ

with the University of Alaska Fairbanks, industry experts from the geothermal industry, and state/federal agencies for the well testing and long-term monitoring program. “Preliminary results from this summer’s fieldwork are extremely interesting,” said Dr Amanda Kolker, project manager for the Akutan Geothermal Project. “We are rapidly developing a better understanding of the geothermal resource on Akutan. By the end of the year, we should have a good conceptual model of the resource, which will help in targeting successful geothermal wells.” Aleutians East Borough | www.aleutianseast.org

which will translate into jobs and economic activity for the community and the region.” Exploratory activities began in May of 2009 with a soil chemistry survey of the Akutan geothermal area. In June and July of 2009, a remote sensing study was conducted by researchers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, using thermal information from satellite images to detect thermal anomalies in the Akutan geothermal area. The geophysical survey in progress, using electro-magnetic techniques, will aid in detecting subsurface resistivity/conductivity anomalies. Combined, these three surveys (all of which take place on the surface and require no drilling) will help locate the geothermal resource on Akutan. Currently, the city is funding this project with an $800,000 loan from the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority, which will carry the project through until the end of the year. The city of Akutan was recently awarded a grant from the Alaska Renewable Energy Fund. Those funds are expected to be available within the next three months. The remainder of the $2.59 million in Alaska Energy Authority grant funding will go toward the drilling of geothermal wells. As a necessary supplement to this funding, Akutan recently applied for $4.5 million in Department of Energy stimulus grant funds for next year’s drilling program. Akutan also plans to request additional state funding later this year. Surface exploratory activities are scheduled to continue throughout summer and fall of 2009, with exploratory drilling scheduled for the summer of 2010. The drilling phase of the project will employ a heliportable coring drill rig to drill four “slim holes” up to 1500 feet deep in areas selected on the basis of the 2009 resource evaluation. Once wells are complete, the city plans to team up

24/7 - 365 days a year Geothermal Energy Doesn’t Stop ThermaSource = Geothermal. As a worldwide leader in geothermal drilling and consulting, ThermaSource provides the necessary expertise and services to developers interested in the discovery and development of geothermal resources for power generation and direct use applications.

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Drill Rig Operations • Drilling Engineering • Geothermal Economics • Field Supervision Project Management • Resource Assessment • Well Testing Cementing • Drilling Fluids • EGS Exploration • Well Logging

North American Clean Energy

hydro and marine energy

HydroPower: “An incredible opportunity”

$531 million in Clean Renewable Energy Bonds Hydroelectric projects received about 24% of the $2.2 billion in Clean Renewable Energy Bonds allocated recently to renewable energy developers, according to the National Hydropower Association. “By providing more than $531 million in funding for hydropower projects, the federal government is supporting efforts that will create jobs and add to the country’s domestic, affordable electricity generation resources,” said Jeffrey Leahey, NHA’s senior manager of government and legal affairs. The US Treasury Department allocated the bonds to more than 800 companies and cooperatives nationwide. The funding was authorized by the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. In the past, the federal bonds program often overlooked promising hydroelectric projects. The latest allocation was based on a pro rata basis, a change the NHA had been pushing for. “NHA salutes the legislators and policymakers who have improved the CREBs program, so that it recognizes the extraordinary energy, environmental, and economic beneﬁts that can come from hydropower,” said Leahey. The CREBs program is designed to help renewable energy developers access lower-cost credit for renewable energy projects. The bonds are tax-credit bonds, which means the company does not pay full interest. Instead, the federal government provides the company a tax credit covering 70% of the interest earned.

he US hydropower industry is ready to lead the country in the creation of 700,000 family supporting jobs by 2025 as it helps steer the United States toward energy security and a clean, renewable energy future. Hydropower can add 60,000 MW of clean, renewable energy to the nation’s electric grid by 2025. That’s enough to serve 17 million households— the equivalent of all the homes in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago combined. The findings prompted Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell to call on policymakers to support development of hydropower, America’s largest renewable energy resource. “It’s time to invest in renewable energy resources that generate electricity in this country and that provide jobs for Americans. Hydropower presents elected officials across the country an opportunity to bring thousands of long-term, family wage jobs to our states.” Voith Hydro CEO Mark Garner agreed. “This study confirms what our experience at Voith Hydro has already shown—investments in hydropower lead directly to good-paying, long-lasting American jobs. We have seen 27% growth in permanent employees in the past two years and, as the hydropower industry continues to grow, we have a huge potential to create additional clean, family wage jobs across the United States.” The US hydropower industry today has 100,000 MW of installed capacity. The industry will add 60,000 MW of new capacity through new technologies, efficiency improvements, and research and development. “The hydropower industry is prepared to double its current capacity of clean, domestic, renewable waterpower resources,” said NHA President Andrew Munro of Grant County (WA) Public Utility District. “Hydropower offers tremendous potential for America to double is renewable energy production, provide reliable electricity for American families, and create thousands of new jobs.” The US hydropower industry currently employs approximately 300,000 people. As the industry continues to grow, every region will see additional good jobs and new economic opportunities. According to James Lautar, international representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, “Hydropower is already an important source of goodpaying, high-quality jobs for workers across the country. A national investment in hydropower will help grow American jobs for decades to come.” In addition to providing clean, affordable, domestic electricity, hydropower also helps foster the growth of other renewable energy resources. By providing load firming and energy storage, hydropower helps maximize the benefits of solar and wind resources, too. In fact, at a recent green jobs event in Pennsylvania, Energy Secretary Steven Chu called hydropower’s dual roles “an incredible opportunity” to expand the country’s clean energy resources. “As Secretary Chu points out, both hydropower and pumped storage serve the country in many different ways. Current hydropower capacity alone helps us avoid 225 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, so the contributions are significant,” said NHA Executive Director Linda Church Ciocci. Church Ciocci echoed Governor Rendell and union representatives, stating that NHA is calling on Congressional leaders to: • Enact a national RES that recognizes and supports hydropower; • Support long-term tax incentives that give hydro parity with other renewable; • Accelerate licensing for pumped storage and small hydro; and • Expand federal R&D funding for hydropower technologies “Hydropower must play a critical role in our national energy, environmental, and economic policy,” Church Ciocci said. National Hydropower Association | www.hydro.org

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

hydro products & news Environmental impact assessment studies: Edgartown Tidal Energy Project Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc. (HMMH) has been selected by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to lead environmental impact assessment studies for the proposed Edgartown Tidal Energy Project. Funded under DOE’s Advanced Water Power Program, the winning proposal, titled “The Environment Effects of Sediment Transport Alteration and Impacts on Protected Species Project,” will be an important step toward initiating permitting for a 1.5 MW Tidal Energy Project proposed by the Town of Edgartown in Muskeget Channel east of Martha’s Vineyard. The objective of this study is two-fold: 1) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts associated with sediment transport alteration of two established tidal energy technologies—horizontal open-bladed turbines mounted on monopoles and horizontal helical turbines that float from moorings; and, 2) to collect and analyze information on the occurrence and potential impacts of protected species in the project area. HMMH will direct, administer, and communicate all aspects of the proposed environmental studies program. HMMH will also communicate the tidal project’s goals and the objectives of the proposed environmental studies to regulatory staff, local governments, and stakeholders and interest groups. The project will start in December 2009 and be completed over a two year period. Harris Miller Miller & Hanson Inc. | www.hmmh.com

Polyurethane protective coatings & linings LifeLast is a formulator and manufacturer of high-quality, 100% solids polyurethane protective coatings and linings for welded steel penstock pipe. The company is committed to the green energy marketplace and has directed their energies toward creating technologies that contribute to the run-of-the river penstock applications. LifeLast polyurethane lining provides corrosion and abrasion protection for the penstocks and its slick, pore-free surface benefits flow efficiencies of the systems. LifeLast’s exterior coating systems handle the wear and tear of penstock installation and provide long-term corrosion protection to extend the life of the pipeline. As a leading edge innovator in the corrosion protection marketplace, they have found a home in the sustainable energy movement and look forward to being involved in many more projects to come. Innovation through formulation. LifeLast, Inc. | www.lifelast.com

Run-of-river hydroelectric projects Norris Screen & Manufacturing celebrates a successful installation at Lamont Creek. Lamont is the latest in a series of runof-river hydroelectric projects using Coanda Screens in the generation of green energy. Norris uses curved wedge wire panels for their Coanda Screens because of the screens' unique hydrodynamic properties. The screens are durable, self-cleaning, and fish-friendly—making them not only part of a successful run-of-river installation, but ultimately part of a viable green energy future. Norris, in partnership with Cook Legacy, leads the way in designing and building Coanda Intake Screens for hydroelectric and other markets. Norris Screen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Elgin National Industries. Norris Screen & Manufacturing | www.waterscreen.com

North American Clean Energy

POWER-GEN INTERNATIONAL 2009 Show in Print Features just some of the companies and technologies attendees will see at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s show.

December 8th to 10th, 2009 | Las Vegas Convention Center; Las Vegas, Nevada

www.power-gen.com Join over 18,000 attendees for the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest-paced, three-day information exchange designed to share practical experiences, knowledge, and ideas on the latest power industry trends and challenges. Network and learn from thousands of experts about the technologies and trends on the forefront of the power industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future.

Axial-exhaust steam turbines

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TurboCare | www.turbocare.com

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With its cutting edge hardware technology, fully integrated operating system, and competitive price, the AGC 200 will protect and control a gen-set like no other in its class. The AGC 200 integrates all necessary functions for protection and control of the generator application. The unit can control a plant with up to 26 breakers: 16 generator breakers, 8 bus tie breakers, 1 mains breaker and 1 load tie breaker. The AGC 200 provides many fuel saving features. Examples include: Asymmetric load sharing (ensuring optimal load at all times), temperature-dependent cool down cycle, and automatic gen-set priority selection to maintain the right combination of active units. DEIF | www.deif.com

Test disconnect terminal blocks

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For more information or engineering assistance, contact:

SEPAC Toll Free: 800-331-3207 www.SEPAC.com November / December 2009

Advanced gen-set controller

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Thanks to a deep knowledge of the geothermal industry, TurboCare announces its latest axial-exhaust family of geothermal steam turbines: the MAGMA 3000. The MAGMA 3000 is TurboCareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most efficient design to date and incorporates efficiency and reliability features derived from 25 years of evaluating geothermal equipment failures on other equipment. It is designed to prevent recurrence of chronic failures. The axial-exhaust configuration allows for a lowprofile, cost-effective Power Island foundation and buildout. TurboCareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s geothermal aftermarket experience has shown what works and what doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t and, most importantly, why. Low stress design, generous nozzle spacings, proper material selection, and efficient moisture removal are combined to create a truly reliable and re-rateable turbine for the 21st Century. TurboCare can provide complete steam path replacements to match current resource conditions or re-engineer components to improve reliability and performance of any OEM equipment.

nacleanenergy.com

The new ME test disconnect terminal blocks from Phoenix Contact provide safe disconnect capability between measuring transducers and safety equipment in current transformer (CT) shorting applications. The screw-free disconnect lever provides visual indication of the switchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position. Designed for use in such industries as power generation, utilities, and semiconductor manufacturing, the ME terminals can be used wherever high currents must be reduced using current transformers, and where high voltages are reduced with voltage transducers. To accomplish the safe disconnect, the operator places switchable ME test disconnect terminal blocks before the meter for measurement and maintenance. Each terminal block has a set of three bridging channels on either side of the disconnect lever. The new pluggable shorting component can lock into one of the bridging channels. Even with the shorting component installed, two bridging channels remain available for use. ME test disconnect terminal blocks, ground and feedthrough terminal blocks have the same pitch and profile. All are available with screw, spring-cage, and push-in connection technologies. Phoenix Contact | www.phoenixcontact.com/meseries

Diesel Gensets in acoustic enclosure More than 4,000 Alturdyne gas turbine and diesel engine-powered pre-packaged emergency generator sets are currently in service worldwide, protecting vital telephone and communication installations. Sizes range from 25 kW to 3,000 kW. Generator sets are pre-packaged so they are easy to install. They can operate on diesel fuel, gasoline, natural gas, propane, or bio diesel. All engines meet published emissions requirements. Units with low acoustic signature are a company Forte as well as units that meet MIL specs. The Telco building (in the picture) is eight stories high. The units operate in parallel as an option. Alturdyne | www.alturdyne.com

Construction & maintenance services Since 1921, the Graycor Companies have been providing a wide variety of industrial and commercial construction services, as well as specialized maintenance services, across North America. In the power market, subsidiary Graycor Industrial Constructors has been providing energy producers with the means and methods of generating and supplying power for more than five decades. In addition, subsidiary Graycor Blasting Company is relied upon by power producers for the most experienced, responsive industrial cleaning services. Together, the companies are helping their power clients stay ahead, while building cleaner and greener, as they energize the world. This team handles a full complement of construction services including air quality and environmental, wind energy, transmission and distribution, balance of plant, new generation, nuclear, and alternative fuel plants. Graycor Services LLC www.graycor.com

Arc-ďŹ&#x201A;ash detection The SEL-751A Feeder Protection Relay from Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories is now available with arc-flash detection (AFD) capability, providing automatic protection against dangerous arc-flash events in metal-clad switchgear. AFD interrupts power to the arc flash before it can cause significant damage or personal injury. Fiber-optic light sensors in the SEL-751A detect the light produced by an arc flash. To prevent false tripping, the SEL-751A looks for an overcurrent that coincides with the light flash and sends a trip signal to the circuit breaker in as fast as 2 ms. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories www.selinc.com/arc-flash North American Clean Energy

show in print

Construction & industrial services

Power generation projects

Casey Industrial has been supporting industrial and power plants with multicraft, self-performed construction services since 1947. Casey has project experience in 45 states, so they truly have nationwide capability. When asked who is responsible for safety on a project site, all Casey employees will proactively proclaim “I am.” Casey has broad experience in the installation of fossil-fuel AQC systems, gas-fired peaking plants, and biomass power and thermal energy plants. Let them put their award-winning and cost-effective construction solutions to work.

White Construction specializes in Power Generation projects by utilizing the strengths of their long-standing history of heavy industrial construction. White Construction can provide the following services: pre-development support, construction feasibility analysis, design build capabilities, engineering, procurement, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) experience, balance of plant (BOP) experience, heavy civil, electrical engineering, mechanical, petrochemical, industrial, commercial, governmental, power generation, renewable energy (wind, solar, and biomass), and construction management.

Casey Industrial | www.caseyind.com

White Construction, Inc. | www.whiteconstruction.com

Power plant auxiliary electrical systems solutions

Bring on the sun Canadian Solar Industries Association

SOLAR CONFERENCE 2009

December 7-8, 2009 Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, Ontario Canada

CanSIA 68

November / December 2009

www.cansia.ca

nacleanenergy.com

CE Power Solutions provides comprehensive power plant auxiliary electrical systems solutions for the traditional and renewable energy markets. Employing experts in the field who have a an average of 15 to 20 years of utility, power plant and substation experience, CE Power provides solutions including energy management programs with advanced metering, switchgear and MCC upgrades, and iso-phase bus services. CE Power transformer programs include transformer maintenance and performance programs, transformer rectifier/precipitator reliability assessment program (RAP), and site services. Plant outage testing and maintenance programs and emergency services rapid response capabilities are also available. CE Power Solutions | www.cepowersol.com

Performance monitoring & reporting service provider Tigo Energy, a solar company whose unique technology brings new levels of power output efficiency, management, and control to PV solar installations, announced that the Tigo Energy Maximizer ES and EP products have been listed on the CEC list of eligible equipment. Tigo Energy also has been listed as a ‘Performance monitoring and reporting service provider.’ Tigo Energy is the first company in its category to achieve this listing. Additionally, the Tigo Energy Maximizer system received UL1741 Certificate of Compliance from CSA. This listing allows Californian PV system owners to include the Tigo Energy Maximizers in their PV systems, creating more energy from regained kWh per module, system visibility, and control through the Tigo Energy Management Unit and Tigo Energy MaxiManager software suite. Tigo Energy | www.tigoenergy.com

biopower

Roadmap to the Commercialization of Next Generation Biofuels By Mark Warner, P.E.

irst generation ethanol and biodiesel production in the US expanded significantly during the period of 2000 to 2008, with ethanol production capacity tripling according to the Renewable Fuels Association. This dramatic growth of production capacity was possible as the projects met some of the key criteria for rapid commercialization: their technology was well-known with a proven operating history, vendors were able to provide a turnkey plant with a performance guarantee, and the project development process was something banks and investors were accustomed to financing. All of these factors led to projects that traditional financing institutions were comfortable funding. By contrast, the factors that allowed first generation renewable fuels to grow at a historic rate have limited the commercialization of next generation technologies. Many second generation technologies have been operated at pilot scale, not commercial scale. There are no vendors that can provide a commercial scale technology with a performance guarantee adequate to get standard commercial financing. A major limiting factor for the second generation biofuel processes comes from the fact that their capital construction cost is significantly higher than the first generation projects. Traditional corn based ethanol plants typically have a capital construction cost of around $1.5 to $2 per gallon of annual capacity (a 100,000,000 gallon per year plant would cost between $150 to $200 million dollars). Cellulosic ethanol facilities are generally projected with a capital construction cost of $5 to $10 per gallon of annual capacity. This represents roughly a five-fold increase in capital cost for facilities that do not have a proven operating history. Engineering for large capital projects has developed into a standardized process that is expected by most traditional financial institutions and includes a feasibility study, project scoping, detailed design, procurement, construction, start-up, and performance testing. The purpose of this process it to define scope and cost as early as possible, before significant amounts of capital are committed. Each of these processes is detailed as follows… Feasibility study: An early phase study that vets a business model under a given set of assumptions, identifies major risk, and helps management or investors decide if the project is worth investing in. Project scoping: Often referred to in the industry as front-end loading (FEL) or front-end engineering design (FEED), this phase of the project takes the feasibility study and expands the detail to a specific site. It defines the key process equipment, utilities, infrastructure (roads, docks, rail, etc.), and other major factors of the project. Detailed design: This phase of the project is where the scoping documents are refined to a point where a contractor can construct the facility. The work product at the end of detailed design is a set of specifications and construction drawings that are of sufficient detail for a contractor to supply a fixed price bid and construct the facility. Procurement: Key engineered equipment must be specified and purchased early in the process to allow the detailed design to be completed. Items such as gasifiers, reactors, distillation towers, heat exchanger, large tanks, distributed control systems, and other items that are not “off the shelf” items are part of this procurement cycle. Construction: Upon completion of the detailed design, a construction contractor can be selected. On large-scale projects it is common to use a general contractor who will be responsible for the overall project, even though their company may sub-contract major portions of the work. Start-up: At the point when a project is mechanically complete, responsibility is passed to the start-up crew. Initial efforts are called commissioning, where equip-

ment is often tested with water and inert gasses to make sure basic functions are confirmed (pumps are able to pump, tanks do not leak, boilers produce steam, etc.), and instruments are calibrated. Once each of the systems has been commissioned, raw materials will be introduced and the plant begins operation. Performance testing: A formalized, third party administered performance test is generally required by financial institutions to confirm the key operating parameters within the pro-forma that justified the project. These parameters include demonstration of plant production capacity, along with usage of key raw materials, and utilities. This test is normally run for a seven-day period and is overseen by an independent engineering firm. The source of project funding will typically impact the contracting style that is utilized for a project. The three main contracting formats are: cost-reimbursable, fixed-price, and engineer-procure-construct (EPC) with a performance guarantee. Each of these is detailed as follows… Cost-reimbursable: Often referred to as time and materials, the cost is defined by hourly labor rates, a mark-up percentage on equipment and sub-contracts, and a contractor fee. This approach is usually best for projects that are not fully defined at the point of starting construction and when schedule is the driver. Fixed-price: When engineering is complete and the project schedule allows, multiple contractors can bid on a project to be completed under a fixed-price for the scope of project outlined. This is generally the favored approach for projects where the technology is proven, the design is set, and major changes during construction are not anticipated. EPC with a performance guarantee: This is a turn-key project where the owner is purchasing a fully operable facility for a fixed-price. The contractor will be responsible for all phases of the project process, from detailed design through performance testing including guaranteeing that the project passes its performance test. The primary differences between these contracting mechanisms are the risks and who accepts them. In general, the performance guarantee is seen as a larger risk than the cost of construction guarantees, and not typically available for emerging technologies. Companies that provide the underlying production process for traditional industries, such as corn based ethanol (called the “process provider”), have not yet materialized for cellulosic ethanol and algal based biofuels. This does not imply a lack of companies with second generation technologies; they are just not demonstrated at a significant enough scale for financial institutions to have comfort with a performance guarantee. As neither contractors nor process providers are willing to accept the risk of a performance guarantee, EPC is not a viable option for emerging technologies. Cost reimbursable construction management is better suited to the fast-paced scheduling and ongoing design of second generation biofuels, but requires significant construction experience that many technology developers lack. There is a significant number of promising second generation biofuel technologies that have not been commercialized, partly due to a lack of available financing. The core of the financing issue is the lack of a technology guarantor and a project financing system that has become accustomed to EPC style project execution. Because EPC is not practical for emerging technologies, these projects will need to raise a higher amount of equity and possibly utilize the US DOE and/or USDA loan guarantee programs to bring their technologies to full commercial operation. Harris Group Inc. | www.harrisgroup.com

North American Clean Energy

biopower

biopower products & news Wood waste recovery systems Rawlings Waste Wood Recovery Systems has completed one of the first wood waste recovery systems to introduce biomass as fuel-to-heat cement kilns at Mitsubishi Cement in Lucerne Valley California. The system is capable of processing and storing up to 350 tons of premium biomass fuel wood waste to be burned along with coal to reduce the amount of greenhouse emissions. The biomass will replace part of the annual tons of coal the plant would otherwise have used. The Rawlings Electric portable wood hog is a rugged, high-performance hog that can reduce various types and sizes of contaminated wood waste to biomass fuel. Once the wood waste has been processed through the hog, the metal is removed by an overhead self-cleaning magnet and then conveyed to a walking floor stoker storage system. To ensure the optimal size end product the wood waste is then processed over two vibrating finger screens, and then transferred to the kilns via a blower system. Rawlings Mfg has been manufacturing and installing the patented Rawlings Wood Hog and wood waste recycling systems for over 30 years. Both vertical and horizontal models are available in stationary, portable, and skid mounted systems. Rawlings Wood Hogs | www.wastewoodhogs.com

Proprietary production system for renewable fuel Joule Biotechnologies, Inc. recently unveiled its breakthrough HeliocultureT technology—a revolutionary process that harnesses sunlight to directly convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into SolarFuelT liquid energy. This eco-friendly, direct-to-fuel conversion requires no agricultural land or fresh water, and leverages a highly scalable system capable of producing more than 20,000 gallons of renewable ethanol or hydrocarbons per acre annually, far eclipsing productivity levels of current alternatives while rivaling the costs of fossil fuels. Joule’s transformative Helioculture process leverages highly engineered photosynthetic organisms to catalyze the conversion of sunlight and CO2 to usable transportation fuels and chemicals. The scalable SolarConverterT system facilitates the entire process—from sunlight capture to product conversion and separation—with minimal resources and polishing operations. This represents a significant advantage over biomass-derived biofuels including newer algae- and cellulose-based forms, which are hindered by varying obstacles: costly biomass production, numerous processing steps, substantial scale-up risk, and capital costs. The modular SolarConverter design is engineered to meet demand on a global scale while requiring just a fraction of the land needed for biomass-based approaches. It can be easily customized depending on land size, CO2 availability and desired output. The functionality is proven and can readily scale from smaller operations with limited land to extensive commercial plants. Joule Biotechnologies | www.joulebio.com

April 12 -16, 2010 David L. Lawrence Convention Center Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

held with the 8th Hydrogen Expo® and the 3rd Energy from Biomass and Waste®

Join us for ﬁve days full of exciting events at the

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT WEEK Join Now! - Showcase Your Products & Services - Speak at the Conference - Demonstrate Your Alternative Fuel Vehicle - Host a Site Tour

Topic Areas: - Bioenergy - Waste & Recycling - Fuels of the Future - Energy Efﬁciency

For more information visit:

www.ee-week.com 70

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

Biomass-to-power system Cyclone Power Technologies Inc. and Robotic Technology Inc. have entered into a teaming agreement to advance the development and commercialization of Cyclone’s vegetative biomass-to-power engine system as it can be applied to advanced robotic platforms. Cyclone’s prototype biomassto-power generator is a self-contained, compact system that utilizes the company’s award-winning waste heat engine (WHE) to produce power from plant-based biomass combustion. RTI is currently developing the Energetically Autonomous Tactical Robot (EATR) under a Phase II SBIR project sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) that will locate, harvest, and process for the engine suitable vegetation in the environment to accomplish a variety of military missions without the need for manual or conventional refueling. At the heart of Cyclone’s current biomass-to-power system for the proof-ofconcept EATR is the patent pending WHE, a six-cylinder Rankine cycle external heat engine capable of generating up to 15HP of mechanical power. An attached vegetative biomass combustion chamber produces up to 600°F of heat to run the WHE at peak performance. An alternator or generator then converts mechanical energy from the engine into as much as 10kW of usable electricity. The entire system including engine, heat exchangers, burner, electrical alternator/generator, and fuel hopper is mounted on a pallet for portability. A higher horsepower, more compact version of the engine system is planned for the Phase III Commercialization of the EATR, to be placed within a prototype EATR vehicle. Cyclone Power Technologies Inc. www.cyclonepower.com/video.html Robotic Technology Inc. www.robotictechnologyinc.com

In Search of Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Biofuels

nce seen as the solution for climate change, biofuels have since come under attack because of the use of fertile land to grow core biofuel crops. Now British teams are developing biofuels that really could help save the planet. The British Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) is administering the largest ever UK public investment in bio-energy research. The money is being shared between six groups of researchers throughout Britain who are working on different aspects of the problem to develop the next generation of biofuels. Alf Game, science manager and deputy director of research, innovation, and skills at the BBSRC, is the pivot around whom the development of the program has revolved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not a good research scientist,â&#x20AC;? he admits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Never was.â&#x20AC;? Instead, Game has made a career of enabling the research of others, working for one scientific administrative body after another. And, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no different this time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sustainable Bio Energy Centre is a virtual centre of six teams led from five different universities and institutes that are working on different aspects of the problem,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not like a pipeline, where each of the teams feeds into the next; what we have are exemplars, models or patterns to be copied, of what can be done at different stages of the pipeline.â&#x20AC;? Gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job has been to lead the conception and construction of the centre so that it keeps developing toward the future. The first generation of biofuels was relatively easy to produce. Plants produce their own concentrated stores of energy in seeds or tubers, and biofuels simply tapped into those, taking oils from seeds and ethanol from the sugars in tubers. But such crops compete directly with food for agricultural resources and, after the initial enthusiasm, it became clear that the quantities of fuel needed to make a difference would make serious inroads into food security. Now scientists are looking at the entire plant as a source of biofuels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The next generation will either use by-products, like wheat straw,â&#x20AC;? says Game, â&#x20AC;&#x153;or it will be grown where it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with food. And, that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be landâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;one of the most promising sources is algae.â&#x20AC;?

Grinders for diverse biomass feedstock West Salem Machineryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (WSM) Titan Series Horizontal Grinders are specifically designed to process high volumes of diverse types of biomass feedstock including stumps, land clearing, and urban wood waste into high-quality biomass fuel and other valuable finished fiber products. The Titan is a complete grinding system with heavy duty multi-strand drag chain in-feed conveyor, large diameter powered feedroll, and fully proportional load sensing feed controller for efficient feeding of material into the grinder. The massive rotor assembly features rigid hammers with reversible/replaceable tips. Modular sizing screens ensure a consistent sized, premium quality finished fuel. This stationary electric grinder can be supplied with single or dual electric drive motors for efficient and economical operation, with drive sizes from 400 to 1500 HP. The Titan Series Grinders are used at biomass power facilities around the world that demand mill-duty equipment delivering high-volume production, reliable operation, and reduced maintenance and operating costs. West Salem Machinery | www.westsalem.com

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of material available: waste from agriculture or the food-processing industry, bracken, various grasses, coppiced willow, or poplar trees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A main interest of the research is to find useful ways to break down lignins and cellulose,â&#x20AC;? Game explains. Cows and termites already do it, but they have complicated digestive systems with lots of different microbes. There is an insect, though, that is attracting special attention. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A tiny marine wood-boring crustacean called the gribble has a sterile gut and employs very few enzymes to digest the lignins,â&#x20AC;? says Game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of our projects is to see if we can understand how these work, to replicate this in industrial processing.â&#x20AC;? Other projects are working on improving biomass crops, breaking down the materials and turning them into usable fuels. Altogether there are 15 universities and institutes and 15 industrial partners involved. There are also environmental engineers working on energy efficiency. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make sense to transport wood around the country to huge refineries,â&#x20AC;? Game points out, â&#x20AC;&#x153;so processing will have to be done near the source.â&#x20AC;? That will introduce a useful additional source of income to rural economies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biofuels wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t totally replace petrochemicals,â&#x20AC;? Game admits, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but they could make a difference. There are estimates that between 10% and 20% of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fuel needs could be grown in Britain.â&#x20AC;? The role of Alf Game and his colleagues is to help the scientists work together to produce more than the sum of their individual efforts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What I like about this job is that we can help scientists do better science,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can add value to what they do and make a difference in a project that will make a difference in society.â&#x20AC;? British Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council | www.bbsrc.ac.uk Trelleborg | www.trelleborg.com

WASTE

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$BMM (SBOVUFDI 4BUVSO UPEBZ

Drum chipper for high-volume biomass production Peterson introduces a new drum chipper model suited for high-volume biomass producers. The 4300 model is powered by a C18 Caterpillar engine available in three power ratings: 630 HP, 700 HP, and 765 HP. The chipper utilizes a 36-inch (914 mm) diameter by 40-inch (102 mm) wide drum. It will be available with optional material sizing bars and a chip accelerator to minimize oversize twigs and branches in the chips. Other key features include a sloped feed deck for ease of feeding the chipper, and an adaptive feed control to maintain chip quality and engine RPM. Production 4300 drum chippers will be available 2010. Peterson | www.petersoncorp.com

Call toll-free: (877) 582-7800 201 East Shady Grove Road Grand Prairie, Texas 75050 www.granutech.com

Phone: (972) 790-7800 Fax: (972) 790-8733 sales@granutech.com North American Clean Energy

energy efficiency Knowing How to Measure a Green Building can Help Sell Renewable Energy By Paul Nutcher, CSI CDT | Photos courtesy of www.solarbrella.com

he renewable energy industry could benefit greatly by targeting green building projects. This is true for project teams setting up systems for distributed renewable energy generation on building sites, the manufacturers of the system components, and many other ancillary businesses with a stake in a building’s energy performance. Furthermore, if the diffusion of renewable energy technology has been slow to gain market traction, the LEED program could be a significant driving force for expediting the growth of BIPV and utility scale installations, as well as other renewable generation systems and energy storage systems. Commercial buildings in the United States consume 18% of the nation’s energy and are responsible for 18% of the nation’s carbon dioxide emissions, according to the Department of Energy. The residential building sector consumes 22% of electricity and contributes 20% of the carbon emissions, as reported during the Energy Programs Consortium presentation February 2008: “Income, Energy Efficiency and Emissions: The Critical Relationship.” With renewable energy providing less than 10% of the electricity in the US, the building sector of the economy has as much growth potential for renewable energy product manufacturers as the transportation and industrial sectors of the economy. A realization that buildings needed to become more energy efficient and healthier for their occupants, while reducing their impact on the environment, sparked the earliest stakeholders at the non-profit US Green Building Council (USGBC) to take steps toward addressing more sustainable buildings. The result of those first steps was a program to measure a building’s energy and environmental performance. Today, the most widely recognized national rating tool for third-party verification of a sustainably designed, built, operated, and maintained building is the LEED Green Building Rating System from the USGBC, which first introduced the first of its family of rating programs in 1999. Marketing to the green building industry will take effort from stakeholders in the renewable energy business because they will first need to understand how such energy systems can enhance a high-performance building project— which under the USGBC program results in “LEED certification.” A LEED score

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and measures the environmental impacts and energy performance of buildings as two of its fundamental goals. The LEED family of green building rating systems contains sets of voluntary performance standards, many of which have become mandated by city and state governments, as well as most federal agencies. The Government Services Administration (GSA), possibly the world’s largest landlord overseeing courthouses, offices, agencies, among other federal buildings, requires a LEED Silver certification level. The LEED for New Construction v. 3.0 (LEED-NC) rating system is divided into five main categories including sustainable sites, water management, energy and atmosphere, and indoor environmental quality. There are also two other categories for exemplary performance including the Innovation in Design and Regional Environmental Priorities categories for capturing ways in which the building significantly out performs the benchmarks in the first five categories or addresses a regionally specific environmental issue (i.e. water conservation or diverting materials from landfills). On-site generation of electricity from the sun, wind, or other natural sources have the greatest opportunity for assisting building project teams within the Energy and Atmosphere Credit Category of LEED. Most points in the rating system assigned to any of the categories are in the Energy and Atmosphere category, with a possible one to 19 points for Optimizing Energy Performance, another seven points are possible for incrementally larger percentages of energy usage from renewables, and the project team can gain even more points toward LEED certification for purchasing green energy credits. Because may renewable energy systems measure the output of the energy system, other credits dealing with the commissioning and verification of a renewable energy sources can offer further LEED points. The amount of possible points in the Energy and Atmosphere category is significant because it only takes 40 points for certification. So, the LEED point totals typically shoot high up the scorecard when renewable energy equipment is installed on LEED buildings. Many gain LEED Silver, Gold, or Platinum certification levels. For reference, the highest LEED Platinum certification is between 80 to 100 points. 72

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

But there is still a catch. Before even considering going for LEED, there are prerequisites in all but the Water Management, Innovation in Design, and Regional Environmental Priorities categories. The important one here is the energy efficiency benchmark, ASHRAE 90.1-2007. Plus, the energy systems must be commissioned by a third party to verify the performance of the HVAC system and no CFCs are permitted in the cooling system. Once the prerequisites for the energy systems have been met, the higher the percentage of energy optimization the building is designed to achieve the more points it will gather. Should the building go beyond 40% energy efficiency above the benchmark, there is another point available in that sixth category: Innovation and Design, for example. Retroﬁtting renewables

LEED Green Building Rating System has separate programs for covering the two phases of a building’s lifecycle, one for new construction (Schools, Core and Shell, Retail, Homes, Neighborhoods, and there are more in development), and one for ongoing maintenance and operations of a building after the construction phase. The LEED for Existing Buildings Operation and Maintenance (LEED-EBOM) rating system follows a sustainably built structure to the end of its useful lifespan and the rating tool can be applied once the building has been occupied for at least a year. The point structure and categories are a bit different as the LEED-EBOM rating system is more focused on post-occupancy issues, such as efforts to reduce peak energy demand, save on utility bills, and reduce the carbon footprint of a building or real estate portfolio. Though teams constructing new buildings are the focus of the LEED-NC program, property managers, real estate portfolio owners, and other building industry practitioners looking for a larger return on investment after a renewable energy retrofit installation will decide whether to go for LEED-EBOM. The rationale for LEED-EBOM to this market segment is that properties certified by the USGBC stand out in annual performance reviews, annual budget planning sessions, and add a premium to leasable space. The LEED-EBOM certification process can also identify deficiencies in standard practices that need correction, and then provide the best steps toward operational improvements. An annual re-certification of LEED-EB status from the USGBC may extend the lifespan of a structure because the rating tool can help in the development of a system to avoid a decline in building maintenance. Renewables & LEED for existing buildings

Between one to 18 points are available in the Optimized Energy Efficiency Performance category in the LEED-EBOM rating program. During commissioning and energy audits, inefficient areas of the structures’ operations are pinpointed and monitoring of energy consumption on major mechanical systems is initiated and a program for ongoing monitoring begins. The number of points earned is contingent upon a facility’s EPA ENERGY STAR rating or the percentile level above the national median. LEED points are earned when increased levels of operating energy efficiency can be documented and, as a result, reduce the environmental impact of excessive energy use. A facilities manager can also purchase Green-e certificated energy (a similar option for project teams on new construction), to gain points for helping reduce greenhouse gases and by helping to develop a market for renewable energy. Points are also available for continued commissioning of the building performance. During this process, the building’s capabilities, advantages, and weaknesses are assessed by the commissioning agent so financial costs and benefits are calculated. Training programs are developed and building operating plans are updated. Using an ongoing commissioning program that reflects changes in an existing facility’s occupancy, usage, maintenance, and repair needs ensures adherence to stated revisions and upgrades. Periodic adjustments and reviews ensure optimal energy efficiency. The on-site and off-site generation of renewable energy can also gain from one to six points toward LEED-EBOM certification. It is up to the energy consultant to determine whether solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and biogas technologies are the most advantageous.

Tracking greenhouse gas emissions Conserving through greener site development

The amount of radiant heat from the sun penetrating the building envelope and the thermal transfer properties of the hardscape can all impact the energy efficiency of a building. LEED programs recognize this strategy for overall reduction of energy usage on the property. The impact a rooftop solar array has on the performance of the building envelope is good to know when trying to sell a building owner on the systems. In fact, a tax credit from the Energy Policy Act of 2005 provides up to $1.80 per square foot for the developer, based on improvements to the building envelope and another 60 cents each for installing more energy efficiency for lighting and HVAC systems. Renewables can have an impact on gaining the tax credit by powering a portion of the energy needed for lights and conditioning the interior space. Other site credits with implications for the renewable energy product manufacturer include the designation of parking areas for plug-in electric hybrid cars, among other strategies for reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuels. Indirectly, less energy is needed when building project teams design and build for a reduced impact on the heat island effect. The rooftop configuration of a solar array can have a significant effect on how the thermal gradient differences in urban areas versus undeveloped areas will be addressed. Again, any assistance here from a renewable energy installation should be communicated to the building team prior to the pre-design phase of a construction project to improve the chances that the associated products and services will be specified in the construction documents. The future of LEED

The LEED rating system (or an equivalent rating tool; i.e. GreenGlobes, ICC 700) will one day become the standard that most governments set for project teams wanting a permit to build. Looking at the current building codes in most of the country, with the exception of governments that have already adopted LEED as the standard for getting a building permit and there are many already, some people may ask why we didn’t build like that all along? Much of the intent of the LEED credits are a throwback to the way the building industry was headed decades ago, but a mindset of unlimited energy and materials took over. LEED appears to be here to stay and not a moment too soon as the world gears up to address climate change. All of these efforts could help the long term prospects of renewable energy product manufacturers. Green Apple Group, LLC www.GreenAppleConsult.com

RSC Equipment Rental has launched an equipment emission tracking service that automatically calculates greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions from diesel-powered equipment. The data regarding these emissions are critical for regulatory compliance, voluntary reporting, and carbon footprint reduction. RSC is the first company in the equipment rental industry to provide customers accurate and detailed emissions data. The data will change the way customers in the industrial, maintenance, and non-residential construction markets use rented equipment and help them become more sustainable. RSC took great lengths to ensure the integrity of the methodology for this tracking solution. The Global Institute of Sustainability at Arizona State University independently verified the methodology, the formulas, and the data collected. The verified formulas include the hours of use, load factor, fuel consumption, density conversion, emission factors, and engine horsepower/tier level. The service tracks the greenhouse gas emissions carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, as well as emissions of other key criteria pollutants including nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particular matter, and hydrocarbons. The formulas are applicable to diesel powered equipment with hour meters, which reflects 88% of RSC equipment with hour-metered engines. RSC Holdings Inc. | www.rscrental.com/sustainability

A New Tool for Combating Climate Change? Getting sued for greenhouse gas emissions By Sarah A.W. Fitts, Stuart Hammer & Harry Zirlin

A recent Court of Appeals decision is opening a new front in the battle to curb emissions of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”). To date, proponents of efforts to curb GHG emissions have focused on the potential passage of comprehensive climate change legislation by the US Congress and regulation of GHGs by the US Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”). However, the recent decision raises the possibility of judicially imposed regulation of GHG emissions. Second Circuit decision

On September 21st, 2009, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reversed a lower court ruling and held that a public nuisance suit brought against large emitters of GHGs could proceed. In Connecticut v. American Electric Power, eight states, New York City, and three land trusts (“Plaintiffs”) sued six large electric utilities that, in the aggregate, annually emit approximately 650 million tons of carbon dioxide (“Defendants”). Plaintiffs filed suit in 2004 claiming that Defendants’ carbon dioxide emissions contributed to climate change, which threatened public health and natural resources, resulted in environmental damage, and constituted a public nuisance. Plaintiffs sought a court order directing the power companies to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by 3% annually for 10 years. The US District Court for the Southern District of New York dismissed the case on the basis that granting Plaintiffs’ requested relief would require legislation, making the issue a political question outside the court’s jurisdiction. Reversing the lower court’s decision, the Second Circuit found that Defendants’ contributions to climate change interfered with a “public right in protecting natural resources.” As a result, the Court declared the federal common law of nuisance governed Plaintiffs’ claims. The lack of a federal regulatory scheme addressing climate change was a key factor in the Second Circuit’s decision. The Court found that while the federal Clean Air Act addresses pollution and climate change, it does not yet require regulation of carbon dioxide emissions. In 2007, the US Supreme Court held in Massachusetts v. EPA that the EPA had the authority to regulate carbon dioxide under the Clean Air Act. The EPA subsequently proposed an endangerment finding that carbon dioxide is a threat to human health. However, the EPA’s proposed endangerment finding is not final and, more importantly, the EPA has not yet started regulating all sources of carbon dioxide. Therefore, the Court concluded that the federal common law of nuisance governed Plaintiffs’ claims as no comprehensive federal framework existed to displace the nuisance claim.

Climate change legislation & regulation

The Court’s decision comes at an important time in the US’s efforts to curb GHG emissions. In June, the US House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill initiating a nation-wide capand-trade program designed to curb GHG emissions. In September, Senators John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Barbara Boxer (DCalif.) introduced the US Senate’s version of a climate change bill. Senators likely will spend the next few months revising the bill as they try to secure enough votes for its passage. In addition to the activities on Capitol Hill, the EPA has taken steps to regulate GHG emissions. On September 30th, 2009, the EPA announced its intention to regulate GHG emissions from large stationary sources. The EPA and certain other federal agencies previously released a proposed rule establishing GHG emission and fuel economy standards for motor vehicles. In addition, on September 22nd, 2009, the EPA finalized its rule requiring certain emitters of GHGs to report their GHG emissions. The EPA estimates the rule will require reporting from approximately 10,000 US facilities and cover approximately 85% of the nation’s GHG emissions. Looking ahead

Over the next several months, there will likely be continued discussions about curtailing GHG emissions. In December, US representatives will attend meetings in Copenhagen where developed and developing nations will try to reach agreement on an international climate change accord. In addition, depending on progress with health care reform legislation, pressure may build in the Senate to pass a comprehensive climate change bill. The EPA is also expected to continue its efforts to regulate GHG emissions. In the meantime, the Second Circuit’s decision likely will spur other potential claimants to file suit against GHG emitters. The Court’s ruling is only binding on courts within the Second Circuit; whether courts in other jurisdictions choose to follow the reasoning of the Second Circuit is an open question. Additionally, the US Supreme Court could overrule this decision if Defendants decide to appeal. Finally, future claims of this nature could be preempted if a federal GHG emissions regulatory scheme were implemented. Sarah A.W. Fitts is a corporate partner and co-chair of Debevoise’s Energy & Natural Resources Group. Stuart Hammer is a member of Debevoise’s Environmental Practice Group, and Harry Zirlin is a member of the firm’s Corporate Department and Environmental Practice Group. The article was written with assistance from Debevoise associate Benjamin P. Lesnak. Debevoise & Plimpton LLP | www.debevoise.com

North American Clean Energy

eventscalendar

advertisers’websitedirectory Company

Website

DECEMBER 2009

Page 62

101 PIPE & CASING

www.101pipe.com

1-4

ABB INC

www.abb.com/powergeneration

AEVENIA

www.aevenia.com

AL-PRO

www.al-pro.ca

AMERICAN ZEPHYR CORPORATION

www.americanzephyr.com

APPLIED MATERIALS

www.appliedmaterials.com/solar

ATLAS MATERIAL TESTING SOLUTIONS

www.solar.atlas-mts.com

Advanced Battery Value Chain Washington, DC—The Almas Temple Club; www.infocastinc.com/index.php/Upcoming_Conferences

2-4

New Hydropower Finance & Investment Summit Washington, DC—The Almas Temple Club; www.infocastinc.com/index.php/Upcoming_Conferences

7-9

CanSIA: Solar Conference 2009 Toronto, Ontario—Westin Harbour Castle; www.cansia.ca/2009CanSIASolarConference

8-9

Atlas Symposium on Solar Energy Product Durability Phoenix, Arizona—Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort; www.atlas-mts.com/cgi/events.cgi?action=register&id=294

8-10 10-11

POWER-GEN International Las Vegas, Nevada—Las Vegas Convention Center; www.power-gen.com PV Power Plants 2009 Las Vegas, Nevada—Caesars Palace; www.solarpraxis.de

IFC 17 4

BAJA CONSTRUCTION CO. INC

www.bajacarports.com

BURNDY

www.burndy.com

CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC

www.campbellsci.com/renewables

CANSIA 2009

www.cansia.ca

CARSTENSEN CONTRACTING, INC

www.carstensencontracting.com

CENTA CORPORATION

www.centa.info

CENTROSOLAR AMERICA, INC

www.centrosolaramerica.com

CON-TECH SYSTEMS Ltd

www.contechsystems.com

DAY 4 ENERGY

www.day4energy.com

DEGERENERGIE TRACKING SYSTEMS

www.degerenergie.com

ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT, INC

www.ene.com

JANUARY 2010

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT WEEK

www.ee-week.com

Washington & The New Clean Energy Economy Washington, DC—The Almas Temple Club; www.infocastinc.com/index.php/Upcoming_Conferences

EQUIPMENT EXPRESS INC

www.equipmentexpress.com

ESAB

www.esabna.com

FAGEN INC

www.fageninc.com

GEA Geothermal Energy Finance Forum New York, NY—Ritz Carlton Battery Park; www.geo-energy.org

GARRAD HASSAN

www.garradhassan.com

GLOBE 2010

www.globe2010.com

GRANUTECH-SATURN

www.granutech.com

HELIOS SOLAR

www.heliossolar.com

14 25-27

Geothermal Finance and Investment Summit Las Vegas, Nevada—Las Vegas Convention Center; www.infocastinc.com/index.php/ conference/geothermal

IBC

HPM AMERICA

www.hpmamerica.com

HYTORC

www.hytorc.com

FEBRUARY 2010

KBB

www.kbb-solar.com

02-02

MILBANK, TWEED, HADLEY & MCCLOY LLC

www.milbank.com

NEW JERSEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY www.njeda.com

NEXT GENERATION ENERGY

www.zillarac.com

NORTHWIND SOLUTIONS

www.northwindsolutions.com

NRG SYSTEMS

www.nrgsystems.com

PATRIOT SOLAR GROUP

www.patriotsolargroup.com

QUICK MOUNT PV

www.quickmountpv.com

RENEWABLE ENERGY WORLD CONFERENCE AND EXPO NORTH AMERICA www.renewableenergyworld-events.com

RESOL

www.resol.com

SATCON

www.satcon.com

SCHLETTER INC

www.schletter-inc.us

SCHUCO CANADA

www.schuco.ca

2-5

Green Power Conferences’ Offshore Wind Power Forum Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—Radisson Plaza - Warwick Hotel Philadelphia; www2.greenpowerconferences.co.uk Expo Solar 2010 + PV World Forum Kintex Korea; www.exposolar.org/2010

3-5

RETECH 2010 Washington DC—Washington Convention Center; www.retech2009.com

04-07

BIOENERGY Expo Verona, Italy—Verona Exhibition Centre; www.bioenergyweb.it

15-17 23-25

GeoPower Americas San Francisco, California—JW Marriott Hotel; www.greenpowerconferences.com Renewable Energy World Conference & Expo North America Austin, Texas—Austin Convention Center; www.renewableenergyworld-events.com

MARCH 2010

8-10

3rd Annual Geothermal Finance & Investment Summit Las Vegas, Nevada—Venue TBA; www.infocastinc.com/index.php/conference/223

16-18

SOLARCON China 2010 Shanghai, China—Shanghai New International Expo Centre; www.semi.org.cn/solarconchina

24-26

GLOBE 2010 Vancouver, BC—Vancouver Convention Centre; www.globe2010.com

APRIL 2010 12-16 16-21

OBC

7 57 3 50

SCHUNK GRAPHITE TECHNOLOGY LLC

www.schunkgraphite.com

SEPAC

www.sepac.com

SOLAR DESTINATION

www.solardestination.com

SOLECTRIA RENEWABLES LLC

www.solren.com

SOPOGY

www.sopogy.com

SPACE POTENTIAL

www.spacepotential.com

SSB GROUP

www.ssb-group.com

SUN XTENDER

www.advancedpowerproducts.com

TETRA TECH

www.tetratech.com

THERMASOURCE

www.thermasource.com

34 & 35

THOMAS & BETTS CORPORATION

www.tnb.com

THYSSENKRUPP SAFWAY, INC

www.safway.com/wind

TITAN TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC

www.titanti.com

ENERGY and ENVIRONMENT WEEK Pittsburgh, Pennsilvania—David L Lawrence Convention Center; www.ee-week.com

TRICO TCWIND Inc

www.tricotcwind.com

TRINA SOLAR

www.trinasolar.com

18th World Hydrogen Conference 2010 Essen, Germany—Messe Essen; www.whec2010.com

TROUTMAN SANDERS

www.troutmansanders.com/renewable_energy

TTI

www.ttisolar.com

UNIRAC

www.unirac.com

UPSOLAR

www.upsolar.com

VBINE ENERGY

www.vbine.com

WHITE CONSTRUCTION

www.whiteconstruction.com

WIND ENERGY SERVICES COMPANY

www.usawindenergyservices.com

Send us your clean energy show and event listings. Email information to the Editor at mfroese@nacleanenergy.com

November / December 2009

nacleanenergy.com

Catches every ray of sun. Up to 45 % more energy gained using the DEGERconecter Intelligence designed by Nature. Solar tracking systems from DEGERenergie exactly align each individual solar module to the most intense light source – whether the sun is shining or it‘s heavily overcast. An impressive energy gain of up to 45 percent.

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