Combined Fuel Cell & Solar Power System Installation

The 5k fuel cell system is part of LIPA's on-going Clean Energy Initiative (CEI) research and development program and will operate as part of LIPA's electric grid. The fuel cell, manufactured by Plug Power of Latham, NY, converts the energy of natural gas and an oxidant (air or oxygen) into useable electricity.



The fuel cell will generate electricity while also providing supplemental domestic hot water to the IBEW facility. In the event of an electrical outage, the fuel cell is capable of operating independent of the electric grid delivering 110 volts at 50amps, to supply electricity to critical loads and emergency lighting throughout the facility.



"It's becoming increasing apparent that Long Island must decrease its dependency on fossil fuels and expand the use of renewable non-polluting sources of energy," said LIPA Chairman Richard M Kessel. "The use of solar energy, fuel cells, wind power and other renewable technologies will help bring Long Island a little closer to achieving that goal."



Kessel was also honored with the Pathfinder Award presented by the U.S. Fuel Cell Council (USFCC) for his efforts in promoting and encouraging the use of clean and renewable technologies such as fuel cells. "I applaud Richard Kessel for having the foresight to promote the advancement of both solar and fuel cell technology," said Donald J. Fiore, Business Manager IBEW Local 25. "The growing use of this type of environmentally friendly power is necessary for us to advance our independence from the growing pollution of fossil fuels."



"This installation is an example of a great partnership and collaborative effort between LIPA, IBEW and Plug Power," said Dr. Roger B. Saillant, Plug Power President and Chief Executive Officer. "We continue to appreciate Chairman Kessel's commitment to helping to advance the commercialization of fuel cells in the State of New York. This commitment will further the movement toward energy independence while promoting economic development on Long Island."



The 15 kW roof-top solar power system consists of 81 photovoltaic panels in a three array configuration that converts sunlight into electricity. The electricity created by the solar panels will help protect Long Island's environment by avoiding the emissions resulting from the burning of fossil fuels through traditional generating methods. Over the expected life of the solar panels, the electricity generated will displace 563,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, 749 pounds of nitrous oxide and 2,458 pounds of sulfur dioxide. The solar system was installed by electrician volunteers at the IBEW Local 25.

Source: on pressbot.org | Date: 20.08.2005 - 1:48 | 856 times read