Case Study : Sustainable Laramie
OutBack System with Large-Capacity Energy Storage in a Wyoming Self-Sufficient Living Structure
Overview
In an environment such as Laramie , Wyoming , a fully sustainable , successful net-zero working and living structure is no small undertaking . Winter average temperature highs barely get above freezing , the average lows are in the single digits — and those are the averages , record lows for Laramie are actually not much different from those recorded at McMurdo Station , Antarctica . On the plus side , relatively strong insolation ( solar radiation exposure ) in the area provides a natural , practical reason for adopting innovative solar technology engineering in structural design .
System Specifications
Location : Laramie , Wyoming System Power : 6kW PV System
Components : FLEXpower TWO ( FX inverter / chargers , FLEXmax charge controllers and MATE3 system display / communications ) OutBack EnergyCell RE High Capacity ( 2700RE-24V battery bank configuration with ( 12 ) RE 2700 2V batteries )
This was the motivation behind Marshall Contracting , Inc .’ s selection of an “ envelope house ” scheme to come with a totally passive solar heating solution for their client ’ s unique request for a combination workshop / back-up residential structure for self-sufficient living . An envelope house incorporates a greenhouse section to create a reservoir of warm air and relies on a circulating and reversible air path to collect heat during the day and use it at night . In effect , the house sits in the “ envelope ” of a thermal barrier and acts like a heat-pump , with solid wood construction providing adequate thermal insulation while the concrete slab foundation stores heat collected during the day for circulation at night .
This was our first time using OutBack Power equipment in an installation . Talk about a great first impression ! We were particularly impressed with OutBack ’ s 2V battery system and how easy it went in . With its reputation and service , OutBack is now our ‘ go-to ’ source for off-grid power and storage solutions . For an installation which must perform , there is simply no better choice .”
Jim McGrath
System Designer and Principal , Sustainable Laramie LLC
www.worldofphotovoltaics.com
Energy Storage eFeature | January 2015