Yesterday’s meeting covered more refined and detailed breakdown of the following topics, most of which were discussed in prior meetings, with the exception of the newly introduced structural support “Space Frame” option.

• Panel layout configurations for truss mounted structural frame- 4 sections of seven rows at approx. 100 modules/row or four sections of six rows also 100 modules each. Truss mounting providing specific spacing for mounting dimensions. Also mentioned types of Truss material recommending tubular over welded angle, siting weatherization, degradation, appearance and animal habitat prevention as main reasons.
• Space Frame structure was introduced as a favorable option.
• A space frame is a structure system assembled of linear elements so arranged that forces are transferred in a three-dimensional manner. In some cases, the constituent element may be two dimensional.
• Macroscopically a space frame often takes the form of a flat or curved surface.
• It should be noted that virtually the same structure defined as space frame here is referred to as latticed structures in a state-of-the-art report prepared by the Task Committee on Latticed Structures [2], which states
• A latticed structure is a structure system in the form of a network of elements (as opposed to a continuous surface). Rolled, extruded or fabricated sections comprise the member elements.
• Another characteristic of latticed structural system is that their load-carrying mechanism is three dimensional in nature.
• Space frame benefits although more costly up front were presented as prefabricated, galvanized and powder coated, sturdy, longer Life cycle and less maintenance, but requiring cranes and other installation costs. They also have installer requirements for mounting solar array as to maintain the integrity of the coating and protective surfaces. Provided flexible mounting spacing to help maximize power output and minimize shading.
• Inverter layout revisited with schematic diagram presented illustrating component placement and wiring layouts.
• An overall electrical schematic was presented identifying key component placing and overcurrent protection limits and needs, along with electrical room Layout.
• Metering usage stated existing meters could be utilized with the addition of a revenue grade power production meter to monitor the array output.
• Single line diagram was presented identifying current and project components, mentioning the output potential of 1400-1600 amps at 480 volts.
• Introduced idea of rainwater harvesting for irrigation or toilet flushing usages.
• Procurement procedures mentioned and moved as major topic for next meeting with concerns of turnkey type purchasing being the industry norm verses purchasing standard variety purchasing from multiple vendors in normal construction.
• Next meeting PEP is having the structural Engineers present design considerations, and Mr. Jim Lev will have construction procurement representative attend.

Joyce Mast, at ECE, is researching funding opportunities for the solar panels for ECE and the NCPD.  she provided this information.

Deadlines for submitting proposals:

1) Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity - Assuming our budget is adequate in the next state fiscal year, we may  be offering this program again in September or October of this year (Wayne Hartel, Energy Program Specialist, Illinois Energy Office)

2) When I looked over the SSC-funded projects for 2012 and told Professor Krein about them, he said we should wait for the September inquiry date. He expects that we should have drawings and plans by July. I’m still looking for matching funds

3) Their initial thought was Act on Energy grants, however I advised UI probably did not qualify as UI is not a standard tariff Ameren customer (Keith Erickson)

4) Illinois Clean Energy: a) High Performance Green Buildings – Rolling Review. Submit application anytime
                                                 b) Requests for Innovative equipment replacement projects in existing buildings or
                                                 c)  installations in new construction must submit a Letter of Inquiry electronically by July 16, 2013.

                                                 d)  Solar Photovoltaic Installation by July 16, 2013

                                                 e) Advancing Renewable Energy by July 16, 2013

I have looked at solar installations on roofs and have pictures. These would be supportive. However, we don’t have enough specific information to apply for any grant until the feasibility study results are in.

Morgan, do you have more ideas of places we can apply? Gerard?

I am eager to proceed as soon as possible. If you have further suggestions, please let me know. I could meet with you most any time.

Best regards,

Joyce Mast

Joyce Mast, Coordinator

Grainger Center for Electric
  Machinery and Electromechanics

Department of Electrical

  and Computer Engineering

From: Kevin Wolz [mailto:wolz1@illinois.edu]
Sent: Sunday, May 26, 2013 10:48 AM
To: Johnston, Morgan B
Cc: Litchfield, J Bruce; Werpetinski, Valeri A; Beverage, McKenzie; Andrew Gazdziak; Wolz, Kevin James; Branham, Bruce E
Subject: Fwd: SOLAR QUOTE

Hi Morgan,

I've attached the latest and best solar quote we have received for the solar array to be placed on the roof of the fruit farm building (funded by the SSC via the LINC EV SSF class). I am still waiting for (1) the system specs and schematics from this company which I will forward as soon as I get them and (2) a few more conversations with Crop Sci and ACES people once I get back in the country in June 1. However, I wanted to send this to you so you could advise on what else I need to provide and get from F&S to make this a go. 

Thanks so much! 

Kevin