Sunday, January 30, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Solar Superintendent/Construction Manager (SO103) (Palo Alto CA)

Date: 2011-01-28, 6:50PM PST

Reply to: see below

For over 23 years, Allana Buick & Bers (ABB) has been dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and innovative Architectural-Engineering solutions. Our expertise lies in building envelope design for both new construction and repair/rehabilitation of buildings, forensic expert witness support, energy solutions encompassing solar and mechanical engineering in addition to related construction management, inspection and testing services. ABB is a customer focused firm providing innovative and enduring building solutions using reliable and time-tested methods. ABB employs over 100 employees with our corporate headquarters in Palo Alto, CA and regional offices in Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Seattle, New York, and Hawaii (Honolulu and Lahaina). For additional background and project information, view our web site: www.abbae.com.


The Solar Superintendent/Construction Manager will manage the construction of large commercial solar projects in the public and private sectors, representing the client and overseeing the project cycle on site. This individual will be responsible for supporting schedule management, subcontractor coordination and client communication through the project cycle.

Responsibilities may include:

-Manage and direct all project field activities during the project cycle for Commercial PV Projects

-Direct the execution of work in accordance with approved contracts

-Support the design process and permit submittal

-Support the bid process for subcontracted work

-Build, manage, and communicate project schedules using project scheduling tools

-Oversee all field teams and installation progress

-Evaluate project resource needs ensuring supply of materials and labor

-Manage communication with clients, project team members, senior management, etc.

-Manage engineering and construction management resources assigned to specific projects

-Ensure that projects meet client expectations and are completed on time and on budget

-Support and manage construction and the execution of work by contractors and sub-contractors

Preferred Qualifications:

-General contracting background with large commercial projects working for a large general contractor (such as Turner Construction, Bechtel, Gilbane, etc.)

-Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering or related field

-At least 5 years of experience managing medium to large-sized construction projects in both public and private sectors

-Experience with solar system installations (residential roof, ground mount), utilities, state and local solar permitting/interconnection/registration procedures is a major plus but is not required

-Knowledge of major PV components (PV Modules, inverters and racking systems) is preferred

-Willingness to travel is required as this position may travel frequently

-Ability to interpret and proceed according to construction contracts

-Ability to read and interpret technical drawings

-Strong communication skills, both orally and in writing

-Ability to prioritize and complete a variety of simultaneous tasks

-Good organizational and client service skills

-Good judgment and analytical skills

-Strong in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and MS Project and other windows applications

We offer an excellent salary and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, healthcare flexible spending accounts, short & long-term disability, 401(k), vacation, sick and holiday benefits, educational assistance and various incentive compensation programs. We also offer ongoing training and development and job variety.

ABB received several awards in 2009 and 2010 that acknowledge our excellent work environment and our tremendous growth. Amongst architecture, engineering and environmental consulting firms in the U.S. and Canada in 2010 we have been recognized by ZweigWhite as a Best Multidiscipline A/E Service Firm to Work For (#12) and as a Fastest Growing Firm (#106). Our Hawaii Division has also been ranked as a Best Place to Work in Hawaii (#21) by Hawaii Business Magazine and one of Hawaii’s 50 Fastest-Growing Companies (#26) by Pacific Business News.

If interested apply online at http://www.abbae.com/jobapp.html. Submit your resume in text, MS Word or PDF format. Please indicate – SO103/ Solar Superintendent/Construction Manager as your position of interest. Due to the volume of resumes we receive, an ABB representative will only contact you directly if we would like to talk with you further about your qualifications and experience. No phone calls please.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage diversity.

•Compensation: Competitive DOE

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Cool Energy Testing SolarFlow Thermal System

Solarflow System by Cool Energy
Boulder CO. based company Cool Energy is testing it's "SolarFlow" heat and power generation system with the help and planning of solar company Xcel, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy. Their system uses solar energy as "input fuel" to heat residential and small commercial buildings. The system makes use of it's "SolarHeart Engine" to provide heat for structures in cold winter months and electricity to run air conditioning systems in the hotter summer months.

Cool Energy will be field testing it's SolarFlow system in Boulder Colorado. Their SolarHeart Engine produces electricity when conditions call for an area or room to be cooled. The systems produces thermal heat in colder conditions. A recent test produced over 2000 watts of electric power and reached a thermal to electrical conversion efficiency of over 16%.

Their SolarHeart Engine is a Stirling engine powered electric generator that serves as the core of the heat and electricity producing system. It kicks in when the electricity the system produces is needed more than the heat produced by the system. The core idea and aim is to store energy and use it as effectively as possible. If the weather conditions call for heat the system produces heat more efficiently than more traditional systems and in hotter conditions instead of heat will produce electricity to help cool homes and building. If the system performs successfully it will help to lower energy bills by producing heat and electricity more efficiently.

Cool Energy CEO Sam Weaver says  “We will be able to demonstrate the performance and financial benefits of our hybrid clean energy approach to homeowners and utilities alike."

More at Cool Energy.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Jobs In Solar: SOLAR PROJECT COORDINATOR (Whippany, NJ)

Date: 2011-01-24, 1:59PM EST
Reply to: see below

Solar Energy World NJ, LLC is looking for a project coordinator for our solar panel business for residential and commercial projects. Each applicant must be trained to design solar projects and have strong knowledge of solar panels, racking systems and inverters.

Three years prior SOLAR experience is a must to be considered. Applicant must be able to order products, oversee designs, inspect installations and generally oversee the flow of installations. Competitive salary and benefits.

Please note: WE WILL NOT TRAIN ON SOLAR DESIGN AND INSTALLATION!!!. This previous experience is necessary so the applicant can step right into this position and go. We are a rapidly growing company in a dynamic industry. There is room for upward mobility. If you meet these qualifications, please e-mail your resume to: gdunning@solareworld.com.

Location: Whippany, NJ
Compensation: Salary plus Benefits

Monday, January 24, 2011

Japanese Researchers Create Anti-reflective Film for Solar Cells

Moth's eyes are covered with a film that reflects light so their eyes don't shine at night and protects them from predators. This fact has inspired Japanese researchers at the University of Technology at Japan and Tokyo Metropolitan University as well as Mitsubishi Rayon Co. to use the idea for creating a film that reflects light and apply it to solar cells.

Searching for methods that would deflect light they found that the film that covers a moth's eye is among the most anti-reflective in all of nature. The researchers developed a film with this quality and it helps to improve the annual efficiency of solar cells by 5 % to 6% found as a result of conducting tests in Phoenix AZ and Tokyo Japan.

The anti-reflective film is now being refined and reformulated for applications such covering different types of solar cells as well as developing the coating to deflect light from building windows and computer displays.

More at AZoM

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Electrician, Solar (PV) installer (Texas)

Date: 2011-01-20, 1:48PM CST
Reply to: job-mhjjy-2170863139@craigslist.org

Experienced electrician needed to install solar elect. systems
Jobs are all located in Texas. Must be able to travel.
These are jobs with above average wage rates. Over 100 jobs now ready.

Must be experienced, able to travel, no felonies and be bondable.
This is an opportunity to make great money. Jobs should last four to six months.

Other work available after these are finished.
Prefer non smokers. Must be self starter and take pride in doing quality work.
40 year old company

Location: Texas
Compensation: Government scale (great wages)

Friday, January 21, 2011

Tucson Residents Can Buy Blocks of Solar Energy

Arizona based utility Tucson Electric Power is starting a new program for residents of Tucson. The utility has built a large 1.6-megawatt tracking solar array from which residents can purchase solar energy. Tucson residents can now buy "blocks" of solar energy from Tucson Electrics solar photovoltaic array instead of installing panels on residential rooftops or businesses.

The "Bright Tucson Community Solar Program" will allow customers to purchase "blocks" of 150 kilowatt-hours from the array located at the University of Arizona's Science and Technology Park. The purchase will ad $3.00 to their monthly electrical bill for each energy block they purchase. They have the option of purchasing one block of energy or all of their electricity through this program.

Each block of electricity purchased will remain at a fixed rate for 20 years under the rules of the Arizona Corporate Commission. As of now, 1,600 blocks are available for Tucson Electric Power customers to purchase and more blocks will be added as TEP adds solar energy resources.

This new program will allow homeowners and business owners to enjoy the benefits of using solar energy without having to purchase and maintain their owner panels.

More at the University of Arizona's UA News.

Tucson Electric Power.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Outside Marketing (Pasadena to San Dimas, Glendora, La Verne CA)

Date: 2011-01-17, 9:39AM PST
Reply to: job-qxvex-2165038556@craigslist.org

JOIN OUR GREEN TEAM We are energy experts that have provided solar power installations since 2001.


We are looking for the right candidates to start work immediately within the areas below.

JOB DESCRIPTION: Developing leads by asking homeowners if they would like to receive a free estimate when canvassing door to door within nice residential neighborhoods.

Hourly guarantee plus bonus. Own transportation a must. Work hours available are afternoons to almost dark, and weekends.

Expect to earn $300 to $400 per week.

CANDIDATE WILL LIVE WITHIN THE AREAS LISTED.

Areas that we need a canvasser for are:

•San Dimas

•Glendora

•La Verne

•Pasadena to Phillips Ranch

Call 800 994-3690 during the hours of 9am and 5pm. Ask for Jim Farrell

Resumes Accepted

Location: Pasadena to San Dimas, Glendora, La Verne, CA

Compensation: Hourly plus Bonuses

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Solar Power News Briefs for January 16th 2011

800 Workers to Be Let Go by Evergreen Solar

Evergreen Solar has determined that their Devens Massachusetts manufacturing plant is not producing the revenue needed to sustain operations. Solar panel selling prices are under pressure from lower cost manufacturing regions around the world, most notably China. As many as 800 of Evergreen's workers will be laid off by the end of the first quarter of 2011.

Evergreen's CEO Michael El-Hillow says the continued price pressure on panels is forcing the Devens closure. They still operate a filament plant in Midland, MI and a wafer plant in Wuhan, China. Their String Ribbon wafers will be manufactured in Wuhan and an additional 10 prototype furnaces will be added to that plant.

More at Xconomy.

Evergreen Solar.


Most Arizona Solar Companies OK With Training Workers on The Job

A survey done by Arizona State Scientist sustainability Professor Pasqualetti reveals Arizona solar power companies aren't necessarily going after employees with solar power industry backgrounds right now. They're looking for people with broad-based bachelor's degrees and strong verbal, written, business and team building skills. You don't have to be a solar power savant to get a job with these Arizona companies.

Broad-based skills are the hot commodity for these companies as of right now. As the industry matures they say they'll be looking for people who have focused skills and experience.

Details at The Arizona Republic.


Apple Filing Patents to Incorporate Solar Technology in Their Products

Apple has filed yet another patent to incorporate solar power as a secondary energy source for their devices. US Patent Number 7868582 has been filed for their invention of a "battery charging manager" that can handle power from several sources including solar.

They want their portable devices such as cell phones, tablet computer, image processing device, media player, etc. to have to have the solar charging option. Apple has been looking into integrating solar into it's devices for years and no doubt will continue to pursue this as their technology and solar tech advances.

Even more at Apple Insider.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Solar Sales Rep Position (Rhode Island)

Date: 2011-01-12, 9:08AM EST
Reply to: job-ahafx-2156328249@craigslist.org

Rapidly growing Rhode Island Solar Energy Company is looking for commissioned sales reps for several in state territories. We sell quality solar electricity, hot water, and heating systems directly to homeowners and businesses.

Our sales reps earn almost double the industries average because our commission programs pay you like a partner, not like a salesperson. Let us show you how you can you can increase your income dramatically regardless of your past experience.

With generous commissions up to 40% your ability to earn is a six figure income is very realistic. To learn more about this exciting opportunity please email your resume to the email address above. Experience in sales a necessity, experience in solar a plus.

Location: Rhode Island
Compensation: Straight Commission
 

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Top 5 States for Solar Power

Calfinder has list of the top five states that are increasing their use, backing and promotion of solar power.

Find out the top 5 at CalFinder.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Aussie Solar Powered Car Breaks World Speed Record

Solar powered car "Sunswift IVy" nicknamed Ivy, built by Australian students, broke the world speed record by zooming around at 56.85 mph. The previous record was 49.09 set by GM Sunraycer in 1987.

Large and tall drivers need not apply as the cockpit as seen in the video is built for small drivers in order to keep the vehicle's weight to a minimum. The car was specifically built to break the world record by students from the University of South Wales. The 25kg battery pack is powered by sunlight only.

Interestingly, the record was broken on a cloudy day inspiring hope that the Sunswift will do even better at the World Solar Challenge in October.

More at Sunswift.com.


Sunday, January 9, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Foreman - Electrical (Flagstaff Arizona)

Date: 2011-01-07, 12:18PM MST
Reply to: see below

REC Solar is a solar electric system integrator specializing in the design and installation of residential and commercial solar systems. Our vision is to make solar electricity a part of the mainstream energy supply. While still being a medium-sized employer, REC Solar is a market leader in the solar electric industry, experiencing growth rates in excess of 75%/year. By commercializing energy sources that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, we can contribute to a more secure and sustainable world.

We are currently looking for a Solar Electric Foreman to work in the field of solar electric system installation. A minimum of 5 years electrical experience is required.

The responsibilities associated with this opportunity are as follows:

* Organize, lead, and train crews to complete projects within established guidelines and timeframes;
* Ensure attention to detail with an emphasis on quality and safety;
* Analyze and resolve worker problems and recommend solutions;
* Relate to the public and to customers in a professional, courteous and respectful manner, appropriately responding to their complaints;
* Work with up to 600 Volt Circuits.

Requirements:

* Journeyman Electrician OR LRT Registration Required;
* Full range of mobility in upper and lower body;
* Be able to work in various positions, including, but not limited to, stooping, standing, bending over, sitting, kneeling and squatting for extended periods of time;
* Be able to lift, pull and push materials and equipment to complete assigned job tasks;
* Be able to lift 50 pounds of weight frequently throughout assigned workday;
* Experience with electrical work involving wiring up to 600 VDC and 480 VAC;
* Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record.

We offer an attractive compensation and benefits package designed to reward you for your hard work and performance. Our benefits include competitive base pay, paid time off and health and welfare benefits such as medical, dental, vision and 401K. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or disability.

At REC Solar we consider the environmental impact of our business decisions whenever possible. To minimize paper waste, we request that all candidates send resumes via our website. APPLY ONLINE at http://tbe.taleo.net/NA5/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=RECSOLAR&cws=1&rid=676

Location: Flagstaff, Arizona
Compensation: doe

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Solar Power News for January 6th 2011

photo cred: Green Chips
Consumer Electronics Association Give Grant to Green Chips

* The CEA or Consumer Electronics Association gave a grant of $75,000 to environmental organization Green Chips. Green Chips is a non-profit Energy Audit and Retrofit program that helps local Nevada state residents and businesses prepare for solar installations by doing audits and retrofits.

CEA president and CEO acknowledged the work of Green Chips installing a solar panel system for Shade Tree, a woman's shelter in the Las Vegas area. The installation will save them $500 on their energy bill.

More at Green Chips.

As little as $30 Per Month Will Pay for Oregon Solar Installations

 * National solar energy provider Solar City is helping residents of Oregon take advantage of new legislation that will reduce monthly installation costs to as little as $30 a month. Legislation recently passed that will allow residents who lease solar installations to receive a RETC or residential tax credit previously only available to buyers of installations.

Residents can receive up to $6,000 in RETC's and payments can be as low as $25 or $30 a month, but Solar City retains ownership of the panels for the 15 year lease.

More at The SunBreak

First Solar and Chinese Solar Development Company to Build World's Largest Solar Plant

*  Arizona based First Solar, the largest manufacturer of thin-film solar is teaming up with China Guangdong Nuclear Solar Energy Development Co. Ltd. to create the world's largest solar power plant.


The plant which will be located in Ordos, Inner Mongolia will be a 2000 megawatt power plant project that will be completed in 3 stages. The goal is to complete the power plant in 10 years with the first step being to create a 30-megawatt production capacity plant.


More at USATODAY.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Master Electrician (Houston TX)

Date: 2011-01-03, 5:13PM CST
Reply to: job-nnkfp-2142107688@craigslist.org

Solar Power Installation Start-Up requires Master Electrician for TEC license. Will Pay $300 per installed kW plus $200/month just to have you on board. Expect average 4kW install to require 8 hours of electrical work. Must not already have license assigned to another company unless you own at least 51% of it. This is weekend work year one with high potential for full time year two.

Location: Houston, TX
This is a part-time job.

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Active Solar Air Heater for Garage

Here's another video showing a homemade active solar heater placed on the roof of a garage in Maine. Not too many details given but you get the idea of the general design he used:


Monday, January 3, 2011

Solar Generation USA Road Trip-Webisode 3

This is webisode 3 of Solar Generation USA Roadtrip. We travel through Colorado, Reno and into California including Napa Valley wine country: