Independent Energy Solutions

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

Conventional photovoltaics in an unconventional location

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center has an international reputation as one of the finest facilities of its type featuring IMAX films, a planetarium, exhibits, displays and educational programs for all ages. When it comes to technology, the Science Center has to have it done right.

Project Team with PV Array

IES was pleased to be selected as SDG&E's design, supply, build partner for the Center's new 120kw photovoltaic array. The installation also acts as an important educational tool featuring a real-time, interactive data acquisition display. The SDG&E-owned system is part of its Sustainable Communities Program and provides locally generated renewable energy to the community.

We are pleased to report that system is currently performing above specs and was delivered on-time, on-budget and with zero change orders!

Specifications

• 120 kw array
• 684 Kyocera KC175GT polycrystaline modules
• 1 Satcon 100 kw inverter
• Sunlink flat roof mount with 10° tilt

U. S. Navy - Santa Cruz Island

Photovoltatic / Diesel Hybrid - Remote/Off-Grid

Santa Cruz Island is located about 25 miles off the coast of California. Most of the island is wilderness and owned by the National Park Service and The Nature Conservancy. The US Navy also operates a small facility with barracks and support infrastructure serving the entire island. Recently, IES completed a unique PV/diesel-hybrid project designed to provide clean, reliable electricity to this remote and environmentally sensitive location.

90 kw Inverter

The system uses a large photovoltaic array which feeds into a sophisticated power tracking system that keeps a 2 Mw/h battery bank charged. Three diesel generators provide power for night use and extra capacity. The entire system senses loads, generation capacity and charge states -- delivering the required outputs where needed. IES delivered the project on-time, within budget, and with zero change orders.

2 Mw/hr battery bank

System Specifications

• 134 kw photovoltaic array*
• 90 kw inverter
• 150 kw maximum point power trackers
• 2 Mw/h battery bank
• 3 50 kw/hr diesel generators*
  *supplied by others

Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base

LCAC Hangar (before skirting installed)

IES designed and installed a 54 kW DC array on top of an LCAC (Landing Craft, Air Cushion) hangar near a tough, salt water environment at the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base in Southern California. As with all our military projects, we delivered a solution that was on-time, on-budget and bullet-proof reliable.

System Specifications

• 54 kW
• 55 MWh/year
• Modules - 244 Kyocera KC158G
• Inverters - SMA SunnyBoy SWR 2500U (208VAC)