GP Joule Canada, a subsidiary of GP Joule in Germany, successfully completed six utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects through its U.S. operations, totalling 12 megawatts (MW) in Minnesota. In two of these projects, the company combined its EPC expertise in the north with its proprietary single-axis tracker technology to streamline design, supply and installation. Systems were engineered, constructed and brought online in under 8 months, with the majority of the installation taking place during challenging winter conditions.
“Leveraging our deep experience deploying systems throughout Canada, we are well positioned to support solar developers facing extreme winter conditions in the Midwest and the Northeast,” said David Pichard, GP Joule Canada VP and COO. “These systems were installed under enormous time pressure in the toughest environments, demonstrating our expertise in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering and precise project management.”
Single-axis trackers for harsh weather conditions
GP Joule supplied its Phlegon single-axis tracker on two sites in Webster and New Germany, offering a vertically-integrated solution for utility PV projects. Designed specifically for harsh climates and challenging sites, the tracker uses heavy-duty linear actuators that intelligently integrate sophisticated German-engineered control systems. This technology contends with heavy snow and high winds to ensure production 365 days a year. “Cost-effective Phlegon utilizes up to 50 percent fewer piles than competing trackers, has the lowest fastener count and offers the easiest ground maintenance access in the industry”, the company claims.
Cost-effective solution to burgeon the community solar movement
“We are committed to delivering the lowest total installed cost,” said Pichard. “By integrating EPC services with a cost-effective tracking solution, we can support profitability in burgeoning small utility markets like the Minnesota Community Solar movement.”GP Joule has partnered with the upcoming Midwest Solar Expo and Smart Energy Symposium in Minneapolis April 30 through May 2 to showcase its expertise building PV in tough northern climates.
Climate change conference One Health with a new approach
Under the slogan “Code Blue for Patient Earth: Responding to the urgent threat of climate change to One Health” a conference in Saint Paul addresses climate change risks to humans, plants and animals and options for action. The aim is to educate and inspire health professionals and health students. Organizers are Fresh Energy, Health Professionals for a Healthy Climate and the Science Museum of Minnesota. The conference takes place tomorrow, April 20. (HCN)
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More useful information:
http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Solar-Generator/Community-solar-innovation-in-Minnesota-despite-Trump
http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Solar-Generator/Tenant-solar-power-on-the-rise
http://www.pveurope.eu/News/Energy-Storage/Sonnen-with-new-business-model-2-200-kWh-yearly-for-free
