EMIGH'S SOLAR ELECTRIC PROJECT...

In August 2005, Emigh Hardware completed the installation of a 200 kW solar system that makes innovative use of an unused asset – the roof of the building – to generate on-site electricity and help reduce the company’s operating costs. Emigh Hardware’s solar system covers 21,600 square feet, making it the largest retail solar rooftop installation in Sacramento.

Benefits

By integrating solar power into their energy mix, Emigh Hardware will lower energy costs while reducing impact on the environment. The solar electric system generates enough electricity during the daytime to power over 200 homes. In addition, this grid-connected solar system reduces the store’s electrical load, especially during peak demand times when the utility grid is most strained and electricity is most expensive. This solar system produces 50% of the facility’s electrical needs, and yields a 60% reduction in utility costs.

By avoiding the purchase of fossil fuel generated electricity, Emigh Hardware’s solar system spares the environment from thousands of tons of harmful emissions. It is estimated that over the nest 30 years, the solar-generated electricity will reduce emissions of carbon dioxide by nearly 2,000 tons. These emissions reductions are equivalent to planting approximately 600 acres of trees, not driving 5.2 mission miles, or removing 400 cars from the roadways of Sacramento.

System Description

The photovoltaic system installed at Emigh Hardware uses PowerLight’s PowerGuard® technology, a lightweight building-integrated roofing assembly that is installed over an existing roof membrane. The photovoltaic modules use solar cells made of solid-state semiconductors to convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. The 1,240 interlocking tongue-and-groove tiles enable them to resist wind uplifts without penetrations. In addition to generating electricity, the solar roof system provides thermal insulation and protects the roof membrane from harsh UV rays and thermal degradation. These benefits result in decreased heating and cooling energy costs and extended roof life.

You are welcome to call us at 916.482.1900, submit an online information request or email us for more information.