What?
Solar panels (photovoltalic cells) have been installed
at Bowling Green State University to generate power, initially, for lighting.
Where?
BGSU Ice arena roof (take a look) The solar panel array is installed
on the east side of the roof near the tennis courts.
When?
Installation to begin August, 2004
Expected to be active September, 2004
How?
Installation process (watch the video)
How Much?
31 kW array (how much is that?) was installed and will generate power for 100 light fixtures in the hall of fame at the BGSU Ice Arena. The lights use about 1.5 kW with the remainig kW going elsewhere in the BGSU ice arena.
The BGSU system is grid-connected, which means
that when the PV array generates power, the utility meter runs backward. A
utility inverter was installed that changes the direct current (DC), generated
by the array, to the alternating current (AC) standardly used in homes and businesses.
View the installation video series to learn more about how the system works!
Calculate how much pollution is generated by the electricity you use
Why?
Power plants contribute tremendously to air and water pollution, and release large amounts of particulates ino the air. These pollutants have negative effects on the environment and human health. By installing Green Power, which is both renewable and environmentally benign, we are taking an important step in promoting cleaner air and water for you and the community.
Solar energy contributes most on hot summer afternoons when demand for electricity is high. At those times, the alternative to solar energy is especially polluting.
Who?
A coalition of people and companies are involved with the installation of solar power in the Bowling Green area:
Donald Scherer - Philosophy Professor at Bowling Green State University was instrumental in obtaining numerous grants for the installation of the PV.
The City of Bowling Green Municipal Utilities is assisting with the installation of the PV and the routing of the generated power. (You can help by purchasing Green Power from BGMU)
AMP Ohio, Green Energy Ohio, and Green Mountain Energy Company are also involved with the project.
The solar array was manufactured by First Solar in Perrysburg, Ohio and was intsalled by Advanced Distributed Generation in Maumee, Ohio. Ballard Energy Systems donated the inverter while Laibe Electricity of Toledo, Ohio assured the connections.
News Clips about the Project
BGSU Develops sunny idea to make skating icefor the arena (Toledo Blade, September 11, 2004)
Fire and Ice: solar panels energize arena (BGSU Monitor Magazine September 2004)