SPCA Solar Project

Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA Solar Energy Project

Another cutting edge initiative with SmartGrid Charlottesville is a solar energy project.  This demonstration will evaluate the environmental and financial benefits a customer can receive from solar energy in an appropriate application.  In April 2010, 46 solar panels will be installed on the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA roof.  Each solar panel can generate up to 235 watts of power, roughly the equivalent of powering five laptops. 

The SPCA will use all the electricity that the solar installation generates as a portion of its electric supply.  It is estimated the solar energy will meet approximately 10 percent of the SPCA's maximum energy demand ("Peak Demand").  Monthly production will average about 1,200 kilowatt-hours, or about 2.5 percent of the average monthly consumption.  This is equivalent to the electricity used by an average Virginia residential home in one month.

Technical information about the Solar Electric PV System

The electrical production is based on the south orientation of 46 American made Sharp 235 watt panels on four roof locations.  The combined 10,810 watt array will be installed by local Charlottesville company, Alt Energy, and the arrays will be mounted using Unirac mounting equipment and a Weeb grounding system.  The electrical production of this array will be net metered by two SMA 5000 grid tied inverters, and will be installed by NABCEP certified installers. 

The system will be installed in accordance with all applicable national electrical codes, inspected and verified by local inspection processes, as well as confirmed and certified by the net metering agreement.

Net Metering

Dominion has a net metering program that allows customers to generate all or part of their own electric energy generated from sunlight, wind, falling water, sustainable biomass, energy from waste, wave motion, tides, or geothermal sources.   Learn more about Dominion's net metering terms and conditions.

Tax Rebates

To help offset the cost of the solar panels, there are financial incentives available for solar project installations.  Visit the Database of State incentives for Renewable and Efficiencies or ENERGY STAR® on tax credits and the IRS Form 5695 to learn more.