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OUC, Petra Solar Launch Landmark Solar Demonstration Project
Solar Panels Mounted on Power Poles Will Generate Clean Power
ORLANDO - OUC-The Reliable One and clean energy company Petra Solar today announced that they have teamed up to launch the first utility pole-mounted solar photovoltaic system in Florida.
Ten of Petra Solar's SunWave™ intelligent photovoltaic solar systems are being installed on OUC utility poles along Curry Ford Road. Together the panels can generate up to 2 kilowatts, about enough to power a small home.
"Through projects like this, OUC continues to investigate and evaluate various alternative power sources that can help us continue to deliver reliable, affordable and clean electricity to our customers," said Byron Knibbs, Vice President of Sustainable Services for OUC, which provides electric and water services to more than 251,000 customers.
The innovative solar panel demonstration project is expected to help enhance the Smart Grid capabilities and reliability of the electric distribution grid.
Dr. Shihab Kuran, CEO and President of Petra Solar, noted that Petra Solar worked in collaboration with the University of Central Florida in developing the pole-mounted approach to clean energy generation.
"We are pleased to realize the fruits of the research in this commercial endeavor, which will not only provide power to our customers but also enhance the functioning of the power grid," Dr. Kuran said. "Our SunWave systems not only turn street light and utility poles into solar generators, they also communicate with the electric grid and can offer smart grid capabilities. The systems can improve grid reliability through real-time communications between solar generators in the field and the utility control center. In addition, our systems enhance electric distribution grid reliability through a host of capabilities such as voltage and frequency monitoring and reactive power compensation."
Earlier this month, Petra Solar began shipping its SunWave systems in the largest solar PV project under construction in the world. PSE&G, New Jersey's largest utility, recently received approval from New Jersey regulators for its Solar 4 All Program. PSE&G and Petra Solar entered into a contract, valued at $200 million, which requires Petra Solar to deliver about 200,000 SunWave units for installation by PSE&G.
The pole-mounted solar PV system is just one of several clean energy initiatives being undertaken by the OUC. This past spring OUC and Orange County flipped the switch on the largest rooftop solar array in the Southeast, a one megawatt installation atop the Orange County Convention Center. OUC also offers solar PV and thermal programs that help lower the upfront costs of solar for residential and commercial customers.
About OUC-The Reliable One
Established in 1923 by a special act of the Florida Legislature, OUC-The Reliable One is the second largest municipal utility in Florida. OUC provides electric and water services to more than 251,000 customers in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties.
About Petra Solar
Petra Solar, based in South Plainfield, NJ, is the pioneer of grid-tied, pole-mounted, distributed solar generation systems. The SunWave system combines solar energy with smart grid communications and electric grid enhancement functions to create a comprehensive utility grade solution for utilities. For more information, please visit www.petrasolar.com.