Model (At Least) Twice, Build Once: Experiences With the Design–Bid–Build Process for Solar Photovoltaic Arrays

2017 ◽  
Vol 139 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Brian Dougherty ◽  
Matthew Boyd
Keyword(s):  
System Modeling ◽  
Energy Generation ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Photovoltaic System ◽  
Solar Photovoltaic ◽  
Modeling Tools ◽  
Design Elements ◽  
Renewable Energy Generation ◽  
Key Events ◽  
Design Bid Build

Commercial-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays were designed, constructed, and are now operational on the Gaithersburg, Maryland campus of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). A design–bid–build process was followed where the contractors used photovoltaic system modeling tools both during the initial design phase and during the postbid, prebuild phase. To help investigate the specific aspects of the contractors' evolving designs, the authors conducted their own independent photovoltaic system modeling. This independent modeling helped identify design elements that could be improved and so aided efforts to maximize the annual renewable energy generation. An estimated 2.5% gain in annual energy generation is being realized as a result of this independent modeling effort. To provide context for the modeling work and the lessons learned, key events impacting the design–bid–build process are described. The installed systems are summarized and also contrasted with the proposed designs. The power generation at three sites are compared over two different 12-month intervals.

Net Zero Energy Analysis Approach for Military Installations

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kate Anderson ◽  
Samuel Booth ◽  
Kari Burman ◽  
Michael Callahan
Keyword(s):  
Renewable Energy ◽  
Energy Use ◽  
Energy Generation ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Renewable Energy Resources ◽  
Zero Energy ◽  
Net Zero Energy ◽  
Military Installation ◽  
Net Zero ◽  
Renewable Energy Generation

Net zero energy is a concept of energy self-sufficiency based on minimized demand and use of local renewable energy resources. A net zero energy military installation is defined as: “A military installation that produces as much energy on-site from renewable energy generation or through the on-site use of renewable fuels, as it consumes in its buildings, facilities, and fleet vehicles.” [1] The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed a comprehensive, first-of-its-kind strategy for evaluating a military installation’s potential to achieve net zero energy status, including an assessment of baseline energy use, energy use reduction opportunities from efficiency or behavior changes, renewable energy generation opportunities, electrical systems analysis of renewable interconnection, microgrid potential, and transportation energy savings. This paper describes NREL’s net zero energy assessment strategy and provides a planning guide for other organizations interested in evaluating net zero potential. We also present case studies and describe lessons learned from NREL’s net zero energy assessments at seven installations, including the importance of enforcing and funding mandates, providing leadership support, collecting accurate data, and selecting appropriate technologies. Finally, we evaluate whether the net zero concept is a useful framework for analyzing an energy strategy and a reasonable goal.

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