Tampa Electric Company has announced the launch of its pilot project for evaluating 'smart' solar energy systems which are mounted on utility and streetlight poles. For this project Tampa Electric has collaborated with Petra Solar, a South Plainfield, New Jersey based clean technology company. Petra Solar's trademarked SunWave solar photovoltaic systems helps in generation of solar power and at the same time it enhances the Smart Grid capabilities and electric grid reliability. This joint announcement was made by both the companies at the Edison Electric Institute's Annual Convention/Expo.
As a part of the project, Petra Solar's SunWave systems are presently installed on poles in a test facility at Tampa Electric's utility in Tampa. Tampa is completely dedicated to supplement its energy portfolio with renewable energy sources and it is exploring options which will be feasible, cost-effective and at the same time improve the delivery of electric power to its 667,000 customers spread over 2,000 square miles in the area of Western Central Florida.
In a release, Mr. Gordon Gillette the president of Tampa Electric said, 'We are pleased to participate in this study with Petra to determine how to better integrate solar photovoltaic installations into our service territory. The study also will help us better understand how to utilize this technology with future Smart Grid applications.'
For evaluation of the Petra Solar system, Tampa Electric has installed the SunWave solar systems in its utility test yard. These panels weighing 55 to 65 pounds can be installed in less than 30 minutes, they were mounted to wooden and concrete made utility poles and aluminum streetlight poles. These solar panels were installed by Tampa Electric's apprentice linemen.
In a release, Dr. Shihab Kuran, CEO and president of Petra Solar said, 'We're proud to team up with Tampa Electric to move ahead with our newest pilot project. Our SunWave systems turn utility poles into solar generators. The systems provide Smart Grid capabilities through real-time communications between solar generators in the field and the utility control center. In addition, they enhance electric distribution grid reliability to help stabilize the grid during periods of increased load.'
Calvin Azuri is a contributing editor for IoTevolutionworld. To read more of Calvin's articles, please visit his columnist page.
