California universities share lessons learned from building PV systems
 |
The solar array on top of LMU's University Hall was the first of three rooftop systems PowerLight Corporation installed for the university. It generates between 230 and 240 kW. (photo courtesy of PowerLight Corporation)
|
Even the best and brightest can expect to learn a thing or two when adopting new technology, as Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, Calif., and California State University, Hayward, discovered while installing large photovoltaic systems on the campuses.
"Historically massive" might be a more accurate description of the two milestone projects and would serve to put the lessons into perspective. LMU expected to complete its 723-kW peak solar system in April, while CSUH hoped to flip the switch on a 1.05-MW, 110,000 sq. ft. installation in July. Both projects are moving steadily toward completion, but both universities had to adjust their timelines.
Delays are not uncommon when working on projects with public institutions, according to Marketing Vice President Estreilla Zulch of PowerLight Corporation, the solar technology company installing both systems. "Basically, these are big capital projects, and they can involve extensive permitting and applications," she said.
Knowledgeable vendor provides proper design, installation
Paperwork notwithstanding, LMU Energy-Utilities Engineer Gerald Robinson enthusiastically embraces the technology. "It's great to have it up and running without intervention," he said. "It is very easy ownership."
Much of the credit, Robinson noted, belonged to PowerLight, too. He praised the company's professionalism, pointing out, "It's really important to go with an outfit with a proven track record. If the panels aren't installed properly, you won't get a good performance."
The modules atop University Hall were the first to begin operationing in April. Typical output ranges between 230 and 240 kW at peak, although the system has generated as much as 280 kW. As soon as a meter is installed, the solar array on Von der Ahe Library will go online, to be followed by a third and final installation on Gersten Pavilion. The completed system will cover 81,000 square feet of rooftop and generate approximately 660 kWh, slightly less than the 723 kWh of the original plan.
The university chose poly- and single-crystalline panels for their long-term stability. "We learned that thin-film panels are good for applications like fragile rooftops or vaulted roofs with lots of curves, but in most situations poly- and single-crystalline units pack the most kilowatts into minimal square footage," said Robinson.
Supportive utility helps navigate changing programs
LMU collaborated on the solar project with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and the Southern California Gas Company. The installation's estimated total expense of more than $4.3 million was offset by rebates of $3.7 million from LADWP and $325,000 from the gas company. As a result, the university's actual cost was only $325,000. SCGC's incentive was part of a statewide program implemented by the California Public Utilities Commission.
Before LMU could complete the installation on Gersten Pavilion, however, LADWP's rebate program changed, causing a construction delay. Gersten is back on track and slated for completion this fall.
Robinson's advice to anyone considering a large solar installation is to move forward quickly. "Funding programs change frequently, so when the money is there, take it," he urged. "It never pays to wait."
Rebate and energy savings combine to finance large-scale solar project
California State University at Hayward would probably second that recommendation, since a $3.55 million rebate from CPUC is helping the university to install one of the nation's largest single-source solar electrical systems.
The university's share of the PV system's cost will be approximately $3.55 million, financed over 15 years through utility savings from the project, according to Richard Metz, vice president of administration and business affairs. "The system will give the university a hedge against fluctuating energy costs and related supplies, lower annual maintenance costs and increase the life of the buildings," Metz explained.
Metz's support for renewable energy was crucial in getting the project approved, said Energy Management Director Terry Beebe. "He really stepped up to the plate. Financials are pretty tight right now, but he was committed to the long-term benefits," Beebe stated. "Solar power will lock us into a fixed cost for electricity over the next 25 years."
Project brings up policy, training issues
The initial plan was for a 1.05-MW, combination roof- and ground-mounted system to supply 30 percent of the campus's peak electricity demand during the summer. Such an ambitious project was bound to undergo some fine-tuning. To comply with the CSUH procurement code, the university broke construction into phases and will bid the ground system separately later. Selecting a fourth building site brought the system's total generation back to the original 1-MW level. "And that rooftop needed to be reinforced and the solar array sized down," Beebe said.
Interfacing a solar system of that size with the existing electrical system was also a learning experience. "The facilities staff were going to pull together the plans and specifications for permitting, so they had to be educated about PV," Beebe said.
Those plans are now awaiting review by the state fire marshal, and once again, the permitting process slowed progress. "It's not a complicated application, but the fire marshal's office is very backed up right now, and we have to wait our turn," said Metz. "A sister campus has an application farther along in the queue, and I asked if it might want to trade places. The answer was no, of course."
Engineer recommends integrating systems for maximum efficiency
In spite of a few administrative delays, Beebe anticipates that the bulk of the solar system will be installed by Dec. 1. His only regret is that the project came together too quickly to integrate other energy-efficiency measures. "We are looking at incorporating a small thermal storage system and electric motors. The big savings come from a multifaceted renewable energy and efficiency plan, like the Alameda County correctional facility has," he said. "The Santa Rita Jail PV project was the model for CSUH."
When the Hayward campus solar project is completed, California State University's 23 campuses will have a new role model for renewable energy use. University President Norma Rees admitted as much in an announcement to the press last May. "We hope to set an example for the entire CSU system, as well as universities across the country," she stated.
And like any good institution of higher learning, CSUH will undoubtedly be happy to share what it learns with others.