EMC House Becomes A Net Energy Exporter 

EMC Solar Construc on Pty Ltd

Objective

To install a 15kilowatt (kW) solar PV array at the back of the Colin Street property that would provide all the electricity needs for the office located adjacent to the array. The array was installed using innovative screwpile technology for footings, fixed framing from Mecasolar, and 250W mono-crystalline panels from LDK.

Major success Installation of the 15kW array in one day including all the screwpile footings.

Major challenge Major delays in the shipping of essential equipment from Spain. This has provided important lessons for future projects.

Environment Grant Case Study EMC Solar Construction Pty Ltd received a $10,000 grant from the City of Perth in 2011/12 to install a demonstration scale solar photo voltaic (PV) system in their property at 18 Colin Street, West Perth.

Why The Project Is Important

Traditional sources of energy release greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. These gases accumulate in the atmosphere as they are being released faster than they can be absorbed.

Alternative local energy production systems like solar panels assist in reducing the emissions.

The Environment Grants and Sponsorship Program coordinates and help fund environment proposals of individuals, groups, businesses or organisations that are aligned with the City’s environment priorities.

For more information on the Program please visit the City of Perth website www.perth.wa.gov.au/environment

What was done

The system brings together components from Spain, China and Germany to provide a model for modular and expandable solutions for clean energy generation. The 15kW solar PV array is made up of 120 panels and renders EMC House a net energy exporter. The technology maximises efficiency and provides a model for systems up to 200 times the size.

Array footings were achieved through Screwpile technology; a 2m long steel pipe with a screw thread at the end removed the need for concrete. Galvanised steel framing was used with bolted couplings. The 120 panels were mounted in three hours, using simple clip attachments.

Lessons Learnt

Screwpile footing significantly reduce down time, as installation could be made within minutes of screwing in the footings.

Development applications and planning approvals are required from both the City of Perth and Western Power before installation can begin. This process can delay a project if processing times are not factored into the process.

Procurement arrangements for internationally sourced components can take time as they require warehousing, customs documentation and delivery.

Key Achievement

18,460 kW energy produced; and

93.49 kW is the peak output in a day.

For further information on the project info@energymadeclean.com or 1300 558 687.