Project Overview
In order to promote renewable energy education and to decrease fossil fuel consumption, the UAF Bristol Bay Campus had a 4kW photovoltaic (PV) system installed on their campus building.
Objectives
A 4 kW photovoltaic (PV) system was installed on the UAF BBC campus building in the fall of 2009. In addition, energy efficiency upgrades were implemented including the installation of a vending miser, to cut electric usage of the vending machine in stage 1, and eventually the removal of the vending machine and replacement by a water purifying filter, to further cut electric usage and costs in stage 2. Additional energy efficient upgrades have been implemented and others are planned.
Technology
The system is grid-tied and consists of (24) 170 watt solar photovoltaic panels and a Fronious IG 4000 inverter.
Data and Analysis
In 2011, the solar PV system produced 3,077 kWh of electricity, saving $1,046, displacing 205 gallons of diesel fuel, and preventing 4,551 lbs of CO2. With these savings, the system has a payback period of 28 years.
The vending miser had an annual savings of approximately 1,040 kWh or $364; by getting rid of the vending machine and replacing it with a water purifying filter, there was an annual savings of 3,690 kWh or $1,292 (a payback period of 2 months).
Funding
The material cost of the solar PV system was $29,694. The vending miser cost $189 and the water filtering unit cost $212.
Links, Resources, and Documents
UAF Bristol Bay Campus Sustainable Energy Program website: http://www.uaf.edu/bbesl/sustainable-energy
Share this page on Facebook!
