Solar, SHGA could take the LEED in green
Moderator: Chip
Solar, SHGA could take the LEED in green
I went out to the dry lakes this week end. I was able to ride in and fly a trike for the first time. While I was there, Jim showed me solar panels he had out there. He did all the instillation. It would be nice to look into it. We could do it for about 30 cents a watt. One of the storage underneath could be used for the batteries. They run for about $50 a battery and last for about ten years. Jim has eight batteries and six panels and is able to run a lathe, milling machine, and lights. The lights he has are interesting too. They only cost around two dollars a years to run 24/7. To apply green to the club would be setting an example and in the long run saving us money.
I know that we are strapped right now, but we still are generating money every month. When we are finished with the gazebo and our financial situation permits it, we should think solar. To have motion sensor security lights is a plus to protect our investment from vandalizing. The rails will be the most vulnerable, especially if the tops are wood.
Batteries?
Having had a solar electric system on my house for 8 years now - I feel like I may actually know something about this. 
Batteries are generally only used if you are not connected to the Grid or have Grid disruptions. Neither of these apply to SHGA. Next, I suspect SHGA's electrical bill is minimal therefore the electrical cost savings will never justify the cost to instal an electrical panel system. Finally, any excess electricity produced, even if it is truely purchased by the utility (DWP might not) is purchased at such a low price that you can not justify intentionally producing more than you use.
Batteries are generally only used if you are not connected to the Grid or have Grid disruptions. Neither of these apply to SHGA. Next, I suspect SHGA's electrical bill is minimal therefore the electrical cost savings will never justify the cost to instal an electrical panel system. Finally, any excess electricity produced, even if it is truely purchased by the utility (DWP might not) is purchased at such a low price that you can not justify intentionally producing more than you use.You should talk to Supine Jim. I'm sure he'd be happy to invite you out to the ranch and take a look at his work. He is an amazing man. Everyone associated with the ranch contribute a lot of talent, which is used throughout. The owner Jim is very nice and makes you feel comfortable the moment you get there. It's a field trip of knowledge.
Something I think is new is this Enphase inverter which converts dc to ac power right at the panel itself. A review at costco from a contractor said "changes the game for permitting/plan review/and inspections"
http://www.solarelectricsupply.com/Inve ... index.html
An 880 watt kit is $3,299
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.as ... nav=&Nty=1
It has 4 220watt panels. I saw you can get one of those panels on eBay for about $430. That alone might be enough to eliminate our electric bill and we might not need a permit to put it on the coke machine or a storage container.
http://www.solarelectricsupply.com/Inve ... index.html
An 880 watt kit is $3,299
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.as ... nav=&Nty=1
It has 4 220watt panels. I saw you can get one of those panels on eBay for about $430. That alone might be enough to eliminate our electric bill and we might not need a permit to put it on the coke machine or a storage container.
