DIY: Light Up a Room Using Solar Power

This gentleman is using a relay, inverter, and remote control to power the lights in his living room:

Energy-Efficient Tips for Style and Savings

Energy-efficient home enhancements for comfort, savings and style

(ARA Content) - Conserving energy at home can be as simple as swapping incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or unplugging the computer when it is not in use. However, a home built for energy efficiency can have an even more significant impact on your family's energy use.

Taking a look at your home from top to bottom and wall to wall can uncover ways to maximize energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 40 percent of global energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions come from the world's homes and buildings. Although energy efficient upgrades and home renovations can seem more costly upfront, the investment can help save money and energy in the long term.

Reduce air infiltration

Between framing and routing for wiring and plumbing, hundreds of seams, gaps, and holes exist in a typical home, which let air in and out. Forty percent of a home's energy is lost due to this air infiltration, according to the Department of Energy. In fact, these gaps in an average-size home could fill nearly 200,000 basketballs with air every 24 hours.

A cost-effective way to address the issue is with proper air sealing and insulation. For example, Owens Corning EnergyComplete Air Sealing System seals the gaps in the home's exterior walls before installing fiberglass insulation for thermal protection. The system can reduce air infiltration by up to 70 percent in new homes and can lead to a savings of up to 33 percent in heating and cooling bills for some homeowners.

When considering home insulation, also look for solutions that keep the environment in mind. "Every pound of glass fiber thermal insulation saves 12 times more energy each year than was originally used to produce it," says Frank O'Brien-Bernini, chief sustainability officer for Owens Corning. "In fact, our new EcoTouch insulation uses a minimum of 30 percent post-consumer recycled content and 50 percent total recycled content, as certified by Scientific Certification Systems."

Revisit the roof

Re-roof your home with ENERGY STAR-rated shingles that use granule technology to reflect the sun's rays and help keep roofs cooler, resulting in more comfortable and energy-efficient living spaces. In some areas, these shingles may also qualify for tax credits.  Owens Corning Duration Cool Shingles help save energy without sacrificing beauty.  Additionally, a roofing system that includes proper ventilation helps keep moisture and hot air away from the living space.

Eight out of 10 homes in the United States have asphalt shingle roofs, resulting in millions of tons of potential waste that could end up in landfills each year as homes are re-roofed. Recycling a home's old shingles is equivalent to recycling a year's worth of household waste. Visit Owens Corning Roofing & Asphalt's shingle recycling program to learn how to choose a contractor that will recycle your roof.

Close the window to air leakage

Eliminating drafts can save 5 to 30 percent of a home's annual energy costs, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Window frames are a common culprit for air seepage. Consider installing new, energy-efficient windows or sealing existing windows to address this issue.

Strong and durable fiberglass composite window frames are virtually maintenance-free over their long lifetimes, vastly reducing the need for repair or replacement.

A complete solution from the floor to the roof

Whether you are making minor changes or undertaking major renovations at home, enhancing your home with sustainable methods will not only contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of your family and community, but deliver long term savings.

"Homeowners should realize that they can enhance their home's function and style, while simultaneously saving money and the planet," O'Brien-Bernini says. "We share a common desire with our customers to provide sustainable, innovative and quality solutions that improve homeowner's lives and our environment."

Check out Newsweek magazine's annual Green Rankings for a list of companies committed to sustainability through the products they provide, as well as through their operations.

Petitions Filed Against Chinese Subsidies by U.S. Manufacturers

Oregon based SolarWorld a manufacturer of solar panels and six other unnamed U.S. solar panel manufacturers have filed two petitions with the Department of Commerce and the International Trade Commission.  The complaint focuses on the subsidies Chinese solar panel and cell manufactures receive from their government which allows those manufacturers to sell their panels and cells at artificially low prices.

The seven companies have joined together to form the Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing. Their petition asserts that the Chinese government awards favorable contracts, creates trade barriers, gives out financing breaks and supply-chain subsidies to Chinese manufacturers.

The coalition argues that as a result of all the government backing Chinese manufacturers are illegally "dumping" crystalline silicon solar cells and panels in the United States. Their product prices are artificially low and causing a lot of headaches for American panel manufacturers such as shutdowns, layoffs, bankruptcies and the elimination of thousands of solar manufacturing jobs.

“Chinese producers have used – and continue to use – continuous increases in production capacity and output, fueled by unprecedented levels of subsidization, to push enormous quantities of dumped and illegally subsidized PV cells and panels into the U.S. market at artificially low prices,” said Gordon Brinser, president of Oregon-based SolarWorld Industries America Inc., the leader of CASM and the named petitioner in the case. “This drive is undercutting fair market value and threatening to decimate U.S. solar manufacturing employers.”

Brinser further stated, “We cannot allow China to throw its government resources around in violation of international law. Its actions are illegal and must be stopped.”

SolarWorld and the coalition are asking the Feds to impose duties to help domestic panel manufacturers get relief from the glut of artificially cheap panels and cells.

The International Trade Commission (ITC) has 45 days to determine if the petition is justifiable. If it does approve the petition it will be passed to the Department of Commerce which will have 180 days from the petition filing date of Oct. 19 2011 to make its determination. During that time Chinese panels will continue to be sold in the United States but if evidence is shown that the Chinese are pushing a lot of panels through to avoid possible future tariffs some of their transactions might be subject to penalty.

“We have joined together as an industry because the level of illegal subsidies and dumping that the Chinese government has mounted is simply intolerable,” Brinser said. “American solar manufacturers can compete with any Chinese manufacturers, but not with the entire government of China.”

Check out the Coalition for American Solar Manufacturing.

Jobs In Solar: Solar Project Manager (Denver CO)

Date: 2011-10-25, 4:08PM MDT
Reply to: see below

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing a high volume residential solar PV project, including managing the client relationship and all facets of the project implementation: Administration, Design, Field Supervision/Installation, and QA/QC Technicians. The Project Manager will oversees site evaluation, incentive administration, design, permitting, installation, project resourcing, scheduling, QA/QC, monitoring, inventory management, invoicing and all reporting documentation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the client relationship by providing regular status reports
• Develop and maintain project schedule and budget
• Develop a project-specific materials procurement schedule, coordinate delivery, and manage inventory
• Closely coordinate with Field Supervisors to determine and schedule project resource needs i.e. crew resources, rental equipment, etc.
• Coordinate project implementation with appropriate stakeholders i.e. client, designers, field supervisors, install leads, etc.
• Negotiate subcontractor contracts
• Oversee project Change Orders
• Coordinate production and delivery of Final System Manual to client prior to project completion
• Track project milestones in a Schedule of Values and authorize accounting to issue invoices upon milestone completion
• Develop project-specific safety and logistics plans
• Hold weekly meetings to provide updates on project status and communicate "Lessons Learned" to entire team
• Maintain project status tracking using project management software

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• 3-5 years' experience in Construction or PV Management
• Solid understanding of construction project cycle for managing resources, schedule, and budget
• Expert knowledge of building construction standards
• Excellent communication skills and client follow-up
• Must be highly organized and have ability to multi-task and set priorities
• Highly knowledgeable about PV installations of all sizes
• Ability to work through complex problems
• Ability to succeed in a fast paced environment
• Proficient with computers and the following applications: Microsoft Office and particularly MS Project
• Preferred but not required: NABCEP certification

COMPENSATION AND TERMS

• Position is full-time
• Salary range is $50 -- 60k annual equivalent (depends upon experience)
• Position is project based, to start ASAP with anticipated 12-14 month duration
• Eligible to participate in employee-funded insurance programs
• Competitive Paid Time Off package, plus 6 Paid holidays
• Position will be based in Denver
 
TO APPLY:

Please review our website www.namastesolar.com in order to learn more about us. To apply, go online (no phone calls, please) to http://namastesolar.iapplicants.com and be prepared to answer the following questions during the online application process:
• Have you been responsible for project progress reports to customers? How do you approach the client relationship?
• How do you ensure that your project is staying on time and on budget?
• What tools have you used to manage your workload in a high volume situation?
• Have you read the About Us section of our website? It is important to us that you understand our business model, and this will come up during the interview.
• Lastly, include some questions that you'd like us to answer.
• Deadline for applications is November 11, 2011

Location: Denver, CO
Compensation: Salary range is $50 -- 60k annual equivalent (depends upon experience)

DIY: Make Your Own Solar Panel for Less Than $1 a Watt Part 1

Here's a nice 2 part series showing how anybody can make a simple inexpensive solar panel from Dan Rojas:

Part 1

DIY: Make Your Own Solar Panel for Less Than $1 a Watt Part 2

Make your own solar panel for less than $1 per watt from Dan Rojas.

Part 2

Jobs In Solar: Embedded Programmer/Electrical Engineer (Los Angeles CA)

Date: 2011-10-20, 3:44PM PDT
Reply to: job-ksquc-2660433794@craigslist.org

Noribachi, a smart energy product company with offices in Albuquerque, NM and Los Angeles, CA is looking for an awesome electrical engineer to help us develop new products. We are a rapidly growing company with several diverse product lines in different stages of realization. The day-to-day job will vary wildly based on company needs, ranging from precise, detail-oriented work like writing the code to manage maximum power point solar charging to creative brainstorming for improving processes on the manufacturing floor. You will never be bored and will definitely draw upon all of the classes you took in school! You must be able to self-prioritize, self-manage and follow through.

Qualified applicants will be extremely proficient developing firmware to control power analog circuits and data communication protocols. Our products communicate over wired and wireless interfaces such as Zigbee, USB, GSM and WiFi and often include integrated solar energy in such diverse applications as lighting, audio and surveillance. Demonstrated skill designing both analog and digital circuits is a must. Knowledge of lighting, LEDs, photovoltaics, audio and optics is a plus but not required. All positions at Noribachi are very hands on; as well as being a development engineer you will be called upon to help build products, support sales inquiries, and do anything else necessary to help the company grow. Interested applicants should send a résumé and salary requirements.

What you can expect: a fun, youthful and creative company culture, full benefits, equity options, the unique experience of participating in a fast-growing company, lots of experience and a lot of really amazing projects to dig into.

Location: Los Angeles, CA
Compensation: Competitive Salary, Excellent Benefits, Equity Participation

Learning About Solar: Why Use 3x6 Solar Cells?

Why Use 3x6 Solar Cells?
By Curtis Riley

I hope that your quest towards building your own solar panels is going well. In the beginning one of the most difficult choices that you have to make is how big should the solar cells that you buy be? There is a dizzying amount of different types and sizes that you can use and figuring out what's right for you can turn out to be a costly mistake.

The first thing you need to know is the amount of power that each solar cell produces. Power is rated in volts and amps and the nice thing is that cells always produce the same amount of voltage so all you need to look at is the amount of amps that they put out. Solar cells produce 0.55 volts per cell and varying amount of amps per cell. When you go looking for cells it's easy to compare them by simply comparing the number of amps each cell puts out. Higher is better.

The next question is how many cells do you need? I'll share a couple top secret tips with you here. 3x6 solar cells are perfect for a 2' x 4' panel because you can fix 36 of them in that space and you don't need to waste any material. 36 cell solar panels produce 72 watts @ 19.8 volts (which is perfect for 12V systems). The only advice I can give you here is to buy in bulk. Buy as many as you can afford because higher quantities are significantly cheaper than just buying 36 cells.

Another thing that you need to look at is whether you want to buy tabbed or un-tabbed solar cells. A couple years ago you could save quite a bit of money by tabbing the solar cells yourself; however, in the past couple years solar cell prices have dropped dramatically. I highly recommend that you buy tabbed solar cells (they will tell you if they're tabbed or un-tabbed). Un-tabbed cells are not that much cheaper anymore and they more than double the build time of each solar panel.

Class A or B? Solar cells are sold by class. Class 'A' are perfect condition cells with no defects in them. Class 'B' cells are perfectly functional cells, but they may have some cosmetic blemished. I'll share another secret with you here... Class 'B' cells look the same as Class 'A' cells when they're mounted on your roof (you need to get real close to notice the imperfections). So save your money and buy Class 'B' cells. Class 'A' cells cost over $3/watt and Class 'B' are significantly less than that (I've seen deals of 0.70 for 500 cells).

I built my own solar panels and a wind generator and saved well over $30,000. I get a cheque from the power company because I produce more energy than I use. If you'd like to learn how you can do the same check out Building Solar Panels.

Solar Power International 2011-Dallas TX

NOAA.Gov/Colors of Sunset

Dallas TX is host for the 2011 Solar Power International at the Dallas Convention Center. The solar industry's main B2B trade show will continue through October 20th. More than 1,100 exhibitors will showing off their newest ideas and technology.

Scores of pre-conference and post-conference workshops, general sessions, idea swaps and networking will be held during the week long event. Nearly 24,000 solar industry professionals from more than 125 countries will be learning from and teaching each other the newest technological, scientific and business techniques and trends.

As far as solar careers, Rhone Resch, President and CEO of  the SEIA - Solar Energy Industries Association says the industry is "creating jobs 7 times faster than the rest of America."

List of Solar Industry Conferences.

Attending Companies by Category.

More at Solar Power International 2011.

Jobs In Solar: Solar Sales Representative (UTC San Diego CA)

Date: 2011-10-15, 2:26PM PDT
Reply to: careers@oneroofenergy.com

OneRoof Energy is a San Diego, CA based company that develops, owns and operates distributed solar energy generation systems for the residential market. Through its Solar Select Program, OneRoof Energy uses aesthetically pleasing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems to provide predictable, affordable and environmentally conscious power via rooftops.

Essential Functions:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.

• Responsible for intelligently articultating our company policies and product to a potential customer and ultimately cliosing the sale.
• Makes recommendations of sales strategies, policies, methods, procedures and pricing to the Sales Manager.
• Makes outbound calls and fields inbound calls as needed.
• Responsible for making closing presentations to interested home owners.

Education/Experience:
Four year degree in related field preferred.
Minimum of three to five years of related solarsales experience.
Solar sales experience a preferred.

Must be able to work in a fun, exciting, and fast paced environment!

Competitive compensation and benefits package.

Please submit confidential resume and salary history to: careers@oneroofenergy.com

Location: UTC - University Town Center - San Diego CA

Jobs In Solar: Roofing Superintendent (Reno NV)

Date: 2011-10-14, 11:11AM PDT
Reply to: see below

PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems is one of the largest independent roofing and solar companies in the United States. With divisions in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and Texas, PetersenDean installs new roofs, provides re-roofing services, and designs and installs solar power systems for homeowners, commercial customers and homebuilders. Founded more than 20 years ago on the belief that good roofs are built by good people, we continue to take pride in every roof we build today. Our commitment to safety, superior quality customer service, and the environment has earned us an industry-wide reputation for excellence.

We are currently looking for a full time Superintendent for our Reno, Nevada Division. This position will be responsible for the following:

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
~ Work closely and cooperatively with General Superintendent to ensure that the Regional Operation is successful, efficient and profitable.
~ Responsible for hiring, training/development and quality of all Field Supervisor's performance.
~ Ensure that all employees are working safely and adhering to the Safety policies in place.
~ Responsible for the overall quality of roof solar applications in the area.
~ Responsible for the daily dispatching of hourly employees.
~ Working knowledge and understanding the scope of work for each jobs and ensure that's it is adhered to. Become familiar with application requirements for each product manufacturer whose product you are installing.
~ Responsible for ensuring communication with Job Superintendents and that they are pleased with our performance. Communicate major issues with the General Superintendent.
~ Visit each model complex prior to opening and ensure that we have performed our duties properly -- models should be beautiful.
~ Ensure that all required paperwork for employees that report to you is submitted timely and accurately. This includes, but not limited to, Payroll, JobPulls Inventory and WIPS.
~ Other duties assigned as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:
~ At least 5 years of experience in the roofing/solar industry.
~ Working knowledge of written and spoken English and Spanish is a must.
~ Familiarity with the building/construction trades is a plus.
~ Excellent communication skills are a must.
~ Prior hands-on experience in the construction industry is a plus.
~ Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass a background and drug test.

The company offers a competitive salary and health benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life/AD&D Insurance), Flexible Spending Accounts, Personal Time Off, Paid Holidays and a self directed 401(K) plan. Interested candidates should email their Word resume (including salary requirements) to: jobs@petersendean.com, subject line must indicate Superintendent.

Due to the high volume of responses, we will only contact those candidates we wish to interview. Please no phone calls.

Location: Reno, NV
Compensation: DOE

Solar Cooking: The 1 Minute Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Another interesting project involving a parabolic mirror and a handmade grill framed out with wood. The heat generated from using solar is intense as you can see in this demo. They're cooking up a grilled cheese but almost anything can be cooked using this set up:

Jobs In Solar: Permit Designer (Fullerton CA)

Date: 2011-10-13, 2:07PM PDT
Reply to: see below

ABOUT US
Real Goods Solar, a publicly traded company, has pioneered solar energy and sustainable living for over 30 years. Today we are a national leader in solar installations (www.realgoodssolar.com). Using proven technologies and professional installation practices, we empower our customers to live comfortably with a lower environmental footprint. Our employees are our most valuable asset and our work environment is collaborative and dynamic.

SUMMARY
We are currently seeking a Permit Designer to join one of the largest and most successful solar integrators in the U.S. The Permit Designer develops detailed construction drawing sets for solar PV projects. The ideal candidate will have thorough solar electrical diagram experience and is proficient in autoCAD, AutoSketch and SketchUp.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Coordinate project engineering schedule with Project Supervisor & Operations Manager
• Coordinate with local and permitting authorities during project design and engineering
• Ensure construction drawing set compliance with applicable codes, standards, and protocol
• Work with Sales Consultant to fully understand the project design intent
• Submit and pick up permit packages from building departments
• Draw site and roof plans
• Prepare construction folders
• Secure Fire Marshall approvals when needed
• Draw Single Line Diagram and corresponding Permit Specifications
• Coordinate Pre-Site Visit when needed
• Maintain rapport with building departments to ensure timely permit issuance

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
• Attention to detail
• Prompt response to customer needs
• Positive team spirit
• Accurate and thorough
• Work with integrity and ethics
• Can deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events
• Work long hours when necessary to reach goals
• Resourceful at meeting challenges
• Exhibit sound and accurate judgment
• Use time efficiently
• Observe safety and security procedures

QUALIFICATIONS
• High School diploma or GED
• Proficient at using autoCAD, AutoSketch and SketchUp
• Experienced with solar electrical diagrams
• Valid driving license insurable by good driving record
• Good mathematical aptitude and accuracy
• Can communicate effectively, both written and verbal in English
• Can work/complete/integrate multiple tasks
• Ability to learn skills associated with tool use for a wide array of home improvement measures
• Good decision making ability
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office

TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter to: david.carriere@realgoods.com. Put "Permit Designer" in the subject of your email.

Location: Fullerton CA
Compensation: The package consists of a salary plus comprehensive benefits

Build a Simple Solar Water Heater

Here's a project anyone can work on for a few weekends and create a simple solar water heater. Made mostly from recycled materials so the cost is nominal:

Jobs In Solar: EXPERIENCED SOLAR INSTALLER (Buffalo, NY)

Date: 2011-10-11, 12:04PM EDT
Reply to: job-erjre-2644006473@craigslist.org

SUNGEVITY, the solar home specialist, seeks to hire an experienced solar contractor to oversee installations completed by our Preferred Installer Network. This full time position will certify that all installations are completed to established standards. The role will combine office-based analysis of all jobs prior to allocation to a Preferred Installer, technical project management, and quality assurance inspections.

THIS POSITION IS ONLY FOR EXPERIENCED SOLAR PV TECHNICIANS WHO ARE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THE NY HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSE

Responsibilities

•Technical review of all projects with design and other departments.
•Quality assurance visits to document installations.
•Establish and maintain installation standards and expectations.
•Site evaluation protocols and data delivery training for contractors.
•Site visits and design layout as needed to convert sales.
•Maintain strong working relationships and resolve issues that arise with contractors in a timely and responsible manner.

Skills

•2 or more years as lead PV installer with thorough knowledge of electrical and structural problems and solutions.
•Understanding of and/or experience with PV system design.
•Familiarity with drafting programs such as SketchUp or AutoCAD.
•Comfortable with spreadsheets; punctual data processing.
•Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
•Good public presence with customers, contractors, tradeshows, etc.
•NABCEP Certification and/or project management experience.
•Motivated self-starter; willing/able to work with minimal supervision.

Location: Buffalo, NY
Compensation: Please submit a cover letter, specific salary requirements and resume

The Evolving Solar Power Industry

The swift drop in the price of solar panels has nicely benefited solar installation companies throughout the country. They can pass along the lower cost to their customers and while processing more installation orders.

Real Goods Solar's CEO Bill Yearsley said "We're the beneficiaries of a lot of the manufacturers' continuing cost reductions, it has had a profound impact." The company expects to see a 63% increase for full year sales this fiscal year and to bring in a possible $200 million in sales with the expected purchase of a rival company.

In general, the average cost of an installed solar panel system, including financing, fell 17% last year and 11% for the first part of this year. In some markets the demand for systems has increased even without incentives due to the cheaper panels. Currently the average cost for an installed solar panel system is $6.39 per watt for residential and $5.20 for commercial projects according to SEIA the Solar Energy Industries Association.

This change will also spur state based companies to merge with and acquire rivals making them into larger regional companies. Real Goods Solar's Yearsley says they're checking out U.S. markets for good acquisitions.

But what about the fortunes of U.S. based panel manufactures? Can they continue to cut their prices for the unforeseen future and not the suffer financial consequences?

Analysts are forecasting that domestic manufacturers are going to go downstream and lock in deals with their own customers who want panel installations. This will force them to change their business model to offering their lower priced panels and keep installation prices down to competitive levels which is a tricky thing to do if you want to keep increasing your revenue. In addition they'll have invest more of their capital to create and sustain the installation model for their business.

So the solar panel installation company model as well as the domestic manufacturing side of the industry is in full steam merge and acquire, change, adapt or die mode right now. All sparked by by falling panel prices and on again off again incentives.

Homeowners and commercial businesses might consider diving in right now and taking advantage of the favorable conditions. Capitalism creates competition and competition lowers prices for you the consumer. Get out there and shop different companies for the best deal!

PVWatts Grid Data Calculator

MDI Sunspot Oct 2003

Here's another solar calculator from National Renewable Energy Laboratory called PVWatts Grid Data Calculator.  This revised calculator uses monthly weather data and a PV performance model to estimate yearly energy production and cost savings on a typical crystalline silicon PV system installed.

This calculator is a little more geeky than others listed here so you'll probably have to click the "help" links. After you choose a city you can click on "Explain This Result" and the view help page will hopefully help you understand the results:

Here's the PVWatts Version 2 U.S. States Calculator-Viewer.

PVWatts Viewer Help Page.

* Sun image courtesy of SOHO (ESA & NASA)

Jobs In Solar: Energy Sales (Worldwide)

Date: 2011-10-09, 4:53AM EDT
Reply to: energyexpert@advisorsenergy.com

A growing energy company needs consultants to sell electricity, natural gas, solar energy solutions, wind power, power optimizers, lighting retrofits, utility audits, Cogeneration, water management, Green Wifi, Fuel/Petroleum, Green Geo Thermal Energy Systems, energy management and Money Remittances. e-mail: energyexpert@advisorsenergy.com . Visit us online at www.advisorsenergy.com. Earning potential is over $100,000. Draw and Leads available.

• Location: Worldwide
• Compensation: Earning Potential is over $100,000
• Telecommuting is ok.
• This is a contract job.
• OK to highlight this job opening for persons with disabilities
• Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
• Phone calls about this job are ok.

Customizing Your Prius

Maryland based Engineer Robert Bruninga has 2 Prius electric-hybrid vehicles. His scientific leanings led him to tinker around with the cars to find out what he could add on to them. He put solar panels on the car's roof as well as installed a wooden tailgate and bumper.

In this brief video interview Bruninga tells energyNOW correspondent Lee Patrick Sullivan how he has modified his two Prius vehicles including giving one the ability to act a power generator for any outages at his home.

He bought these used Prius cars to see how he could modify them so they're not shiny lookers-they're in work-in-progress mode and rough around the edges.


Video courtesy of energyNOW!.

Jobs In Solar: SEEKING PRODUCTION MANAGER * HOME IMPROVEMENT/SOLAR BACKGROUND!!! (TORRANCE/LOS ANGELES CA )

Date: 2011-10-06, 8:28AM PDT
Reply to: salesrecruiter@thesungate.com

Southern CA's premier home improvement company - a premier renewable energy solutions provider is seeking an Experience Production Manager with a Solar Background in our new Torrance office.

Requirements:

• Must possess a strong management experience.
• Must have a residential solar background.
• Must have extensive experience in managing all aspects of the installation of the installation process to completion.
• Must have a strong oversight of the collection process with regards to outstanding jobs.
• Extensive working knowledge of construction building codes and product research
• Must have an excellent working knowledge of Projects, Scheduling, and Estimating
• Minimum of 10 years of increasing responsibility in project supervision, coordination of contractors and attention to detail
• Working knowledge of all phases of construction, reading plans and specifications for all trades
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize work assignments
• Must be skilled, trustworthy, dependable, and can work independently and run crews
• Excellent communication skills and multi-tasking capabilities
• Ability to get along with others under stress and function as a professional team player is expected
• Proficiency with Excel, Word and Outlook is expected
• California Driver's license with a clean DMV
• Must pass Background check and with good standing with CLSB!

Responsibilities:

• Supervise all on-site construction activities of assigned projects from start to finish
• Supervise production team from office personnel, assistant production manager, field supervisor and expediter.
• Direct on-site safety programs and meetings
• Perform quality take-offs and accurate budget estimates in order to produce proposals defining scope, costs and schedules
• Must have prior experience with the building permit process and inspections
• Insure and maintain the construction schedule throughout the project
• Resolve problems as they arise from the plans and specifications, unknown existing conditions, conflicts
• Work professionally with designers, subcontractors, vendors and your team
• Ensure that all construction work performed is of the highest quality
• Recruit, train and maintain professional production staff and manage all production dept employee issues.
• Insure accuracy in processing all orders and measures through training of production staff and oversee the ordering of materials and apply permits promptly upon financial approval of jobs.

Compensation:

We offer a very competitive salary, bonus plans, medical, dental, and vision benefits after 90-day probationary period and 401-K after 1 year.

For immediate interview, please send your resume to Anna Liza - Corporate Recruiter at salesrecruiter@thesungate.com.

Please check our website at www.thesungate.com.

Location: TORRANCE-LOS ANGELES CA
Compensation: Competitive Salary + Bonus Plans + Benefits

Solar Power News Briefs

*  SEIA - Solar Energy Industries Associatin has a new quarterly report out on the state of the U.S. Solar market.

Report Highlights:

-  2nd quarter grid-connected PV installations increased by 69% over the 2010 2nd quarter.

-  Cumulative U.S. grid-connected PV is currently at 2.7 gigawatts.

-  U.S. module production dropped in quarter 2 down 11% from the 1st quarter.

-  Quarter 2 saw a price decline in wafer and cell prices dropping 25% as well as module pricing falling 12% as global demand weakened.

-  For the first time, the state of New Jersey surpassed California in the non-residential market (excluding utility projects).

-  Currently there's over 600 Megawatts of Concentrating Solar Power and CPV now under construction in the United States.

More details at SEIA.

*  Last week California Governor Jerry Brown signed bills that restored the funding for California Solar Initiative Rebate Program. These 3 bills include solar rebates for public schools, streamlining permits and provides rebates for commercial wind and fuel cell projects.

Homemade Solar Powered Generator

Here's a step by step way to create a solar powered generator:

Jobs In Solar: Solar Design Engineer (South San Francisco)

Date: 2011-10-02, 12:03PM PDT
Reply to: hr.astronergy@gmail.com

Position: Solar Design Engineer
Location: South San Francisco (Bay Area)

Looking for a technical member to join our growing team in the U.S. Position is a hybrid between a system designer and a product manager. Position will be a direct communication link between salesman and customers with headquarter personnel abroad to assist with needs and support as defined below. Candidates with Photovoltaic Solar design and installation experience preferred.

Key Areas of Responsibilities:
1. Product expert for our salesman and their customers
2. Help customers design their systems
3. Help salesman with technical RFP bid responses
4. Help manage our product portfolio for the U.S Market in a project manager capacity

Technology Awareness Needs and Knowledge:
• PV system layout and design
-Knowledge of BOS components
-Project development process & software tools to measure system output
• PV system installation process, hurdles, issues, do's and don't
• PV technologies: Crystalline and Thin Film (CIGS, CdTe, etc) best uses and performance understanding

Daily Management:
• Obtain latest technology status and presentations and teach/train the sales team
• Respond to customer and sales inquiries on PV design & RFP's as related to or products, or just technical product inquiries
• Help gather technical documentation that sales may need for deal closure
• Interact with product vendors to ensure proper integration or representation of our products
• Oversee the day-to-day progress of U.S. development projects -- some will be executed directly in U.S.,
some projects may be executed abroad at headquarters
• Track and report on product certification status and schedules
• Track and report on product production schedules
• Keep track of module efficiency roadmaps
• Spec sheet management -- obtain latest revisions or corrections
• Manage RMA process from beginning to end with customer: forms, photos, handling process, shipping

Weekly Involvement:
• Sit in and take action items from weekly engineering project status meetings
• Report on U.S. PV market trends and needs to engineering so that effective roadmaps can be implemented
• Support sales calls and act as product expert to questions of installations, design, compatibility, etc.
• Monitor and report the status of project efforts (including weekly status readouts, reconciliation and problem
prevention/mitigation, and performance metrics)
• Attend weekly sales meeting and provide responses to product questions and receive action items from salesman

Experience:
• 2-3 years of PV system design -- commercial space knowledge is a plus
• Knowledge of PV installation -- commercial space knowledge is a plus
• Experience in project/product management role and processes
• Degree in a technical field

Skillsets
• Summary skills
• Organization skills
• Clear communication
• Willingness to work cross-functionally, collaboratively & cross-culturally; a true team player
• Willingness to work flexible schedule to communicate across multiple time zones

About our Company
Our company is a leading global manufacturer of components and system solutions for the PV industry, a subsidiary of the Chint Group; with offices around the world and now located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please e-mail your cover letter with salary history/expectations and resume directly to hr.astronergy@gmail.com.

Solar Decathlon 2011 Winner Announced

2011 Solar Decathlon Winner Watershed House

Winner of the 2011 Solar Decathlon goes to the University of Maryland team it was announced today. They took home the top award for House Design for their "Watershed House."

Secretary of Energy Steven Chu announced:

“Maryland is a well-experienced team. After taking second place in 2007, they rested and regrouped in 2009 and came to West Potomac Park in 2011 focused and determined to win,” said Solar Decathlon Director Richard King. “In addition, Maryland’s Watershed is a beautiful house, judged first place in Architecture, which also performed impeccably in measured contests. This team mastered their strategies to ensure they excelled in all 10 contests.”

Approximately 200 students and 18 Uni of Maryland departments worked on the design of the winning building. The solutions they offered included minimizing water and energy use as well as managing storm water and gray water that emits from washers, showers and dishwashers.

Since the team is from the Chesapeake Bay area they put their focus on conserving water and it uses less fossil fuel than a typical house. Creature comforts weren't ignored by the judges who rated Watershed House "beautiful and remarkably comfortable."

The houses designed by the teams not only focused on design but also livability. The entries had to be homes that could be built right now and lived in immediately. Focus is on conservation but also practicality. An energy efficient home is useless if people are uncomfortable living in it.

The students are putting the house on the market and would like to sell Watershed House to an enthusiastic buyer.

The "People's Choice Award" went to Appalachian State University for it's "Solar Homestead" entry which is a self-sustaining net zero-energy house. The design of this house was inspired by the pioneer spirit of the early settlers to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's design is rugged, self-sufficient, affordable and attractive and because of that it won this year's popularity award.

Solar Decathlon 2011 Final Results and Scores:

	1.	Maryland		951.151
	2.	Purdue		931.390
	3.	New Zealand		919.058
	4.	Middlebury College		914.809
	5.	Ohio State		903.938
	6.	SCI-Arc/Caltech		899.490
	7.	Illinois		875.715
	8.	Tennessee		859.132
	9.	Team Massachusetts		856.351
	10.	Canada		836.423
	11.	Florida Int'l		833.159
	12.	Appalachian State		832.499
	13.	Parsons NS Stevens		828.816
	14.	Tidewater Virginia		774.910
	15.	Team China		765.471
	16.	Team Belgium		709.843
	17.	Team New York		677.356
	18.	Team New Jersey		669.352
	19.	Team Florida		619.006

*** Statistics and results are from the
U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon site.