We check that our suppliers have considered recyclability when we purchase solar modules for our customers’ projects. We use only modules with silicon solar cells; these are far more environmentally friends than thin film cells since they have no heavy metals.
Tier 1 solar modules typically produce energy for 30+ years. At their end-of-life, they can be recycled by speciality recycling companies such as PV Cycle and others. Modules made from silicon solar cells are made mostly of silicon, glass, and aluminum; these components are separated for re-use during the recycling process.
There are several connections that go to a Intelli-Hood system. It is important to verify that all the cables are shielded and tight with no corrosion. Watch this how-to video about cable connections.
First, we encourage you to take a look at our resource page and how-to videos. If you need further assistance, please contact us at 877.477.4190 or submit a request to our technical support team.
It is critical to have the system commissioned by a third party to ensure the system was installed per the engineer’s design. If it is improperly installed, identifying and assessing problems after installation will be very costly and difficult. This can be avoided with Melink’s third-party commissioning. We will ensure the ground loop is installed correctly by verifying borehole spacing, depth, grout thermal conductivity, and ensuring the system is flushed of debris and purged of air.
A geothermal system is most cost effective when installed in a new building or when an existing HVAC system is near the end of its useful life.
The ground loop is typically placed under areas with green space or under parking lots; it does not impede future expansion or landscaping. In a new construction project, the ground loop can even be placed under a building.
Yes, if there is room for the ground loop to be installed. Geothermal systems can be used in buildings with a distributed heat pump system or a central chiller system.
Site ground characteristics, system size and complexity affect cost. Payback is typically between five and 10 years, and it is affected by occupancy, utility rates and available incentives.
On a federal basis, the owner of a commercial geothermal system is eligible to receive a 10 percent investment tax credit, as well as the benefits from accelerated depreciation (including 50 percent bonus depreciation). State incentives can be found on the DSIRE website. Geothermal systems are also typically eligible for energy-efficiency rebates from utility companies.
Melink can help you determine the financing option that is best for your situation. Typical financing solutions are third-party financing and Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE). We will pursue a more creative financing method if necessary.
K-12 schools are eligible for HB-264 and Certificates of Participation Financing.
For more information on PACE financing, visit http://www.pacenation.us/about-pace/