Renewable Energy
As a part of our alternative energy initiative, Energy Management recently purchased and installed solar
panels for the electric powered golf carts. The heart of the cart upgrade was the 187 watt high power
photovoltaic panel. The panel comes with an integrated visor which includes a charge indicator driven
by a charge controller. The solar panel converts sunlight directly to electricity which either charges the
battery or goes straight to the motor during operation. The charge controller monitors and
optimizes the charging process.
The solar charging panel is always on and available for charging, and provides a charge even on
overcast days. Faster charging occurs during full sun periods, but with intermittent use, the panel
keeps up with demand even during shady days. Every bit of solar electricity reduces our recharging expenses.
| SOLAR PANELS FOR GOLF CARTS |
EMS-1 and EMS-2 Golf Carts
Technical Specifications
Model: SG-187
Rated Maximum Power (Pmax): 187 Watts
Current at Pmax (Imp): 7.25A
Voltage at Pmax (Vmp): 25.8V**
Short-Circuit Current (Isc): 7.99A
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 32.7V
Nominal Operating Cell Temp: -40 to 194 deg. F
Cell Technology: Poly-crystalline silicone
Overall Dimensions: 58.7" L x 39.1" W x 2.3" D with 4" W visors
Solar Panel Weight: 39.6 lbs
Solar Panel with Roof Frame Weight: 42 lbs
The use of this kit can eliminate up to 350 pounds of coal per year, by eliminating the need of only
electricity to charge your batteries. It would also eliminate the emission of 1,100 lbs. of CO2 PER YEAR
into the atmosphere (based on using the cart to its maximum potential of 5 sun-hours of peak sun).
The golf cart solar panel charging kit is designed by researchers from the University of Florida
and is manufactured in the USA.
http://www.gatormotoutilityvehicles.com/images/solor_roof.jpg
2 Cart conversions = 2,200 lbs of CO2 eliminated and up to 700lbs of coal.
Insultech Blanket Installation
Reducing Energy Costs
During review of our energy use and utility billing it was determined that cost savings could
be generated if we separately metered irrigation water from building water. Doing so eliminated
the sewer costs for the water used for irrigation. Implementing this change saved $17,000 per year.
Utilizing our energy Curtailment Program through Energy Connect we have recovered $202,000 to date.
The Curtailment Program allows Mason to make a profit by curtailing energy use during a grid emergency.
That energy is then sold at a higher price and the profit is returned to Mason.
Installed meters to track utility costs for construction projects. This allowed us to appropriately
allocate construction costs to the correct project.
Changed the electric rate schedule for Arlington Original from 5VA to 6VA saving approximately $34,000.
Developed a natural gas contract to purchase gas at a lower rate.
Reducing Energy Consumption
Reducing energy consumption by utilizing automated Peak Demand Limiting. This process allows
us to stay within our electric utility provider demand limit, thus saving us overage charges.
Reducing energy consumption by interlocking exhaust fans with the air handler units that supply air
to the areas the exhaust fans serve. Air handler units are started using occupancy modes and interlocking
the exhaust fans with their respective air handlers will save energy by not running the exhaust fans
when the air handlers are off.