Suniva Modules Power Redstone Energy PV Demonstration CenterRedstone Energy and Suniva collaborate to provide innovative energy security solutions to U.S. military bases
NORCROSS, GA. – June 5, 2012 – Suniva, Inc., a U.S. manufacturer of high-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells and modules, today announced that its panels are powering Redstone Energy’s photovoltaic (PV) demonstration site near the main gates of the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala.
The 137kW, multipurpose facility, which serves as a demo site and training grounds in addition to an energy production facility, represents a much larger collaborative effort by Redstone Energy and Suniva to provide cost-effective, innovative PV solutions to U.S. military bases with no upfront taxpayer cost. A key aspect of the PV demo site is the power purchase agreement (PPA) mechanism set in place by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
“The DoD has large energy security concerns as a result of reliance on civilian grids for base power,” said retired General Jim Pillsbury CEO of Redstone Energy. “Their goal of achieving 25 percent renewable energy use by 2025 is both ambitious and challenging. Redstone Energy is laser focused on assisting the DoD with meeting its goal head on through efficient and innovative energy solutions.”
The US military is pursuing public-private partnerships such as the solar PPA model used widely in commercial markets. Under these partnerships, the military will purchase energy from PV project developers who build, own and operate solar systems on DoD property, significantly reducing reliance on taxpayer funds.
“The various public-private business models provide the DoD with a financially efficient mechanism to procure low-cost solar energy while attaining resiliency and reliability as part of a larger, base-centric energy system,” said Dave Buemi, senior director, federal business development for Suniva. “Coupled with Redstone Energy’s unique project development, engineering and military market experience, Suniva’s Buy American compliant Optimus® PV modules provide the DoD and project finance partners highly bankable, low-cost solar energy systems that exceed lifecycle performance expectations.”
The Redstone PV array, Powered by Suniva®, is one of the only PV arrays in Alabama. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for everyday citizens to visit and get an up-close look at how the 137kW worth of Suniva panels are used in dual access, rooftop and parking lot canopy installations including a proprietary Redstone Energy PV-powered carport complete with PV-powered electric vehicle charging stations.
About Redstone Energy Group
Redstone Energy Group (REG) is a leader in the renewable energy solutions arena. It is a Service Disabled, Veteran Owned (SDVO) business that partners with energy technology experts to provide state of the art energy surety solutions for federal, business and industrial projects. REG provides safe, secure, reliable and affordable energy through turnkey solar covered parking solutions that can be deployed on a mass scale and require little customization. REG has speed to market in that it can provide up to 200 kW system in just over 3 weeks from start to commission, thus helping clients meet the challenges of renewable portfolio standards, peak energy demand, rising costs and environmental mandates. www.energygroup.us
About Suniva
Suniva® is an American manufacturer of high-efficiency crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) solar cells and high-power solar modules. The company uses patented, low-cost manufacturing techniques and industry-leading technology to produce its high-quality products and maintain competitive costs. Headquartered in metro-Atlanta, GA, Suniva sells its advanced PV cells and modules globally. For additional information on how Suniva is making solar sensible, visit www.suniva.com.