Blog
Santa Clarita solves water problems with solar
(SunPower Solar Tracking System)
Have you ever wondered what consumes the most energy in California? With close to 37 million residents in California I always assumed our houses were the guilty party. I was wrong. A 2005 study by the California Energy commission reported that over 19 percent of California’s energy is consumed just for treating and pumping water! California water and waste water agencies spend over $500M dollars every year on energy and the rates keep climbing.
The CLWA (Castaic Lake Water Agency) announced that they will partner with SunPower to build a 1-megawatt solar system in an effort to mitigate over 98 percent of their energy usage. SunPower has built over 20 megawatts of Solar Energy Systems for use at water treatment facilities around the state. SunPower will design, build, operate, and maintain the facility. The 1-megawatt system will utilize the T0 tracking system to follow the trajectory of the sun and boost efficiency. The CLWA has entered into a 20 year Power Purchase agreement with SunPower. The facility will actually be owned by PNC Energy Capital who will sell the power to CLWA at specified rates allowing them capitalize on financial incentives and hedge against rising energy costs. SunPower is the only manufacturer offering a 25 year warranty for their Solar Energy Systems. They have the best warranties, the most efficient panels and have installed more Photovoltaic arrays at the commercial, residential and utility scale level than anyone else in America. Green Convergence is proud to be the only Elite SunPower Dealer located in the Santa Clarita Valley.
The construction of this enormous solar facility in Santa Clarita coincides with the William S. Hart School districts plan to install over 7 megawatts of photovoltaic at 9 separate locations. Alternative energy is exploding across the globe with solar at the fore-front. California is America’s biggest investor of solar with over 2,150 MW installed in 2010. Over the last 3 years the solar market has more than doubled in California. Every time a solar energy system is commissioned, jobs are created, consumers save money and our country moves toward a cleaner greener future.
Solar Panel breaks Guinness World Record
(SunPowers Most Efficent Panel Yet!)
Green Convergence is the only Elite SunPower Dealer in the Santa Clarita Valley. SunPower has dominated the photovoltaic market for over a quarter century. Their panels have always produced more power per watt than any other manufacturer on earth. This allows Green Convergence to install systems that produce more kW/h per square foot then all of our competitors. Sun Power has just broken their own efficiency record with the introduction of their 96-cell E20 commercial panel. The SunPower E20 Series panel has a 333-watt and 327-watt option and achieves an overall panel efficiency of up to 20%. The first E20 panels were developed for the Department of Energy under the Solar American Initiative and all resulting efficiency claims have been tested and confirmed by their National Renewable Energy Lab. The panels are currently being installed in Europe and will be available in America in the next few months.
The Worlds Largest Solar Ship
Planet Solar has designed the world’s largest solar ship in an attempt to become the first vessel of its kind to circumnavigate the globe! Christened “Turanor”, the ninety-five ton catamaran can carry 40 passengers and travels at an average speed of 4 to 5 knots. There are over 700 panels on the deck covering an amazing 537 m2. The system produces 93.5 kW of power stored in enormous lithium ion batteries. The ship began its maiden voyage on September 27th, 2010 from Monaco and is expected to reach Monte Carlo sometime this spring. During the 18 month journey the Turanor will traverse the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. The crew will dock in Miami, Cancun, Brisbane, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore. The Turanor is currently docked in Abu Dhabi for the World Future Energy Summit to spread awareness about sustainable energy. There have been no technical difficulties or break downs on the voyage.
Apart from the awe inspiring design and function of the ship, I love their vision. It is another piece of irrefutable evidence that solar energy is a proven technology that is here to stay. I realize ships running only on solar may not be practical on an industrial scale. My hope is that the shipping industry is taking note of this historical voyage and will look to solar as a complementary energy source. Solar is the answer and solar is the future. Green Convergence would like to say, “Good luck and Godspeed”, to PlanetSolar and the crew aboard Turanor.
Change is Good
Smart meters have been the topic of a lot of conversation lately. Many people I speak with are unclear about the purpose of these new meters. When I first heard about them being installed in Europe, I went online and did some investigation. The whole process left me feeling anything but smart. Since then, I have become very familiar with smart meters and the incredible benefits they offer.
A smart meter is the electrical replacement of the age-old analog meters that everyone is familiar with. The new meters enable digital, secure, two-way communication between your service provider and home. They are the keystone technology in the development of a “smart grid” that aims to alleviate costs, stop blackouts and provide more affordable and reliable service. The meters are really easy to read and keep a running tally of kilowatt hours used per month on their digital display.
After installation, SCE customers will be able to access online tools that will allow you to view detailed reports on past, current and projected usage. It also has a section that helps you budget your consumption and will alert you when you exceed your usage goals. Instead of having to dread the opening of your electric bill every month, the smart meter will enable you to lower your electric bill by tailoring consumption to off-peak hours and participating in “save power days.” A smart meter is installed with every Green Convergence Solar system, and it will become linchpin technology connecting all the upcoming smart appliances and programmable thermostats. Southern California Edison estimates that by utilizing the information, customers will decrease the demand on the electricity grid by 1,000 mega-watts while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gases and pollution by a minimum of 365,000 metric tons per year – the equivalent of removing 79,000 cars from the road! Some people are concerned that the meter will invade their privacy. If you happen to be one of those people, you can place yourself on the delay list while companies review an opt-out option.
In my humble opinion, it’s a no brainer. Why not save money while saving the environment? If it’s privacy you’re interested in, look at it this way: now you won’t have to open your property for a meter reader every month. It’s human nature to resist change, but the smart grid is inevitable. The sooner people become educated about it, the faster we can all reap the benefits.
Can oil fuel the electric car?
In the past few weeks, the United States has called for unilateral sanctions against Iran due to their continued pursuit of nuclear capability. Iran currently controls the Strait of Hormuz, where twenty percent of the world’s oil flows. Eighty-five percent of all the oil coming out of the strait is headed to Asia. China, the biggest oil consumer in all of Asia, is a critical ally if these sanctions are to have the desired effect. If Obama’s plan for unilateral sanction is successful, Iran could possibly retaliate by stopping or slowing the flow of oil coming out of the strait. Many believe that Iran’s threat to close the strait is a bluff. In a recent CNBC news article, Julian Jessop, chief global economist at Capital Economics said, “If this does happen we would put the price of crude at $210 a barrel." If that happens, Americans could be looking at gas prices up to five or six dollars a gallon. The one positive that I am hoping results from this is more people buying electric or at least hybrid vehicles. When I read the results from a recent USA Today/Gallop poll I was blown away. It seems that fifty-seven percent of Americans wouldn’t consider buying an electric car regardless of gas prices, and that twelve percent would consider when gas prices rise above five dollars. I’m hoping that oil prices do not increase, but if they do, I hope it causes an increase in consumer demand for EV’s. In a perfect world, increased consumer demand for Electric Vehicles would spur the auto industry into designing and manufacturing more efficient models. According to that poll, 12% is a best-case figure. We need to raise awareness about alternative energy in every industry. Your home is a huge first step, but we shouldn’t overlook the type of car you’re driving or the products that you buy.
Frito-Lay Goes Green
GC In the News!
Go, Arsonals!
The team at Green Convergence is proud to sponsor another great team, the Arsonals! The Arsonals play in a local AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) league, and they had their first game earlier this month. We're proud of our team, and happy to give back to the community in this way. Have a great season, Arsonals!
See what your neighbors are saying...
We just received this response from Brian, a Green Convergence customer:
My experience with Green Convergence was excellent. I have absolutely no complaints about Green Convergence and SunPower. I would absolutely recommend Green Convergence. I have already done so to many people, including two of my direct neighbors, one of which starts their solar installation today! I recommend them because not only do they sell the best solar equipment on the market, they are also roofing contractors. Their installation techniques are absolutely impeccable. Not only does my solar installation look great, I also do not have to worry about my roof leaking! I love the way GC installed the convertor and all the wiring from the panels. The convertor is neatly installed inside my garage and all the wiring is hidden, no unsightly conduit running along the outside of my house. I love the idea of having solar power but was unwilling to sacrifice the look of my house for it. Green Convergence was the only company I met with that could meet and exceed these criteria. I also felt they were the most honest by far. The installation proceeded exactly as GC promised--on time and with no schedule issues. They were also a huge help with my HOA! I've already seen savings. My electric bill went from average $350/month to $0/month. Some months I actually produce a little surplus power and now SoCal Edison must write me a check for that at the end of the year! Initially, my main concern was the quality of the installation and that my roof would not leak. In large part, that's why I chose Green Convergence, and they exceeded my expectations in every possible way. I'm elated! This is possibly the wisest decision I've ever made. -Brian Bair
Brian, we're so happy to hear about your financial savings and your positive experience. Glad to have helped!
Vote for GC today!
SOLAR for LESS THAN you pay EDISON, with ZERO down!
(You may want to re-read the line above...)
You don't have to wait any longer - affordable solar is here! Our customers pay less for electricity and live more comfortably. They save thousands of dollars and aren't affected by rate increases from Edison. You can't control what you pay for gas at the pump, but you can control what you pay for electricity.
Let us re-introduce you to solar. After answering your questions, we will discuss the many ways solar saves you money and how most people pay for it with no money down.
All we need is a copy of a recent electric statement to verify that you qualify for this program. I encourage you to take the next step, and fax or email your statement directly to me. If you prefer, I will come out personally to answer your questions and retrieve your statement.
Once we have your usage information, we can talk exact numbers based on your specific condition.
If we can't save you money, we don't deserve your business or time.
-Keith Graves, Director of Sales
Email Keith today at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Win a Complete SunPower Solar Energy System, Worth Up to $25,000!
Join in the solar revolution! For a limited time, SunPower is giving you the chance to win a complete solar energy system worth up to $25,000. You can also win over 60 exciting prizes such as airline tickets, video cameras, event tickets, etc. Don't miss this limited time offer! Play SunPower’s Solar Discovery Game and win a SunPower System worth up to $25,000. Visit http://bit.ly/SolarGame to play and win!
U.S. Troops Going Green
A Graduate's Perspective...
May is graduation season, and we'd like to congratulate our own Debbie Synnott on her recent graduation. Read Debbie's thoughts about finishing college here...
Grateful When Graduating
by Debbie Synnott
In preparing for another crazy week ahead, I was filled with gratefulness. No, it’s not Thanksgiving, the time we hold special for being grateful or take a moment to thank God for our blessings, even for the feast we enjoy. For me, it is graduation time---a time, I have to admit, about which I have not had the best attitude.
You see, I was negative about finishing school because I worried about finding a job when I finished, let alone a job having to do with my major, Construction Management. I constantly fought those worries again. "Will there be work?” “Will they hire a woman out all the applicants they receive?” “What will I do to make my contribution to this world?” I was, at age 42, scared, unclear, fighting off worries and handing them over to God for His help.
The summer before my last year at College of the Canyons began, September 2010, and these haunting thoughts continued. I applied for a couple of internships, and one of those companies actually gave me a chance. Santa Clarita’s local solar installer, Green Convergence. They welcomed me into their “family” to learn more about going green by having solar replace your energy bills. I say "family" because that is the peaceful environment in which business thrives under partners Mark Figearo and D.J. Schramm. I have learned much more than what solar can do for you. I learned the best business practices come with integrity, good stewardship toward what is given you, to be honest with your clients, and wake up and do that all over again. This happens every day here.
I went from unpaid intern that first semester to paid intern this semester. I have jumped in and help them in any way I am able. As they expand commercially, they would like to move me into Project Management on their commercial side. It always helps to have a great role model. My teacher Regina Blasberg (head of the Engineering Department at College of the Canyons) continued to bring up-to-date construction facts and her “out-in-the-field work experiences” to the classroom, with a great deal of professionalism and enthusiasm.
To my fellow graduates, I take off my hat and say, “Whoooo! We did it!” Be sure to get out there face to face, to apply for internships, to offer to work for free for a company. If nothing else, it will be another learning experience, something to place on your resume, a possible stepping stone to bigger and better things.
Green Convergence just recently went to College of the Canyons Job Fair and hired another six interns. I truly believe there are a lot of companies out there that would be happy to welcome you for the learning experience, but you can’t expect it to just be handed to you. Make an effort, what is the worst that could happen? Could they just say, “No?” Maybe, but I believe that if you persevere, there will be one company out there that will say, “Yes!”
College of the Canyons has some great resources that can help and they are available to anyone in the community. They provide assistance with writing a good resume, intern sites, job sites, CWEE Department and relevant classes offered. I would also like to mention that COC is developing a solar program to starting next year! Mark Figearo, CEO of Green Convergence, is on the advisory committee for their solar program.
We live, we learn, we graduate, we get a job. Even with the current economy in a low state there is still a reason to have hope, to be positive, to keep trying, to hand over your troubles, to pray, and yes, to be thankful, even when it is not Thanksgiving time! In the Bible, Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'” I am grateful for so many reasons. I pray God blesses your endeavors. He certainly has blessed me.
Come Walk With Us!
How Do You Spell Value? S-O-L-A-R
The results of a recent Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study are in...
...a solar installation adds roughly $17,000 to a home's value at resale! $17,000! The study analyzed more than 72,000 California homes between the years 2000 and 2009.
It's like we've always said...solar just makes cents.
Read more about this study here.
Make the Wise Choice!
Every time we buy something, go somewhere, or throw something away, we cast a vote for the kind of future we want. Because of this, let’s make the wise choice! This Earth Day, I want to thank all our customers who choose to live in a way that preserves the habitat we depend upon for our health, happiness and security. Thank you for making the wise choice!
Last night my friends and I discussed several important issues. I realized that people need support as they venture to change their values. It’s a matter of changing consumption with community. My advice is to make small changes that can have a big impact on lessening our footprint on the planet. In other words, try to make every day Earth Day. Here are a few ideas:
- Get your bills electronically.
- On Facebook, compare the "green" things you have done with the green things that your friends are doing. Sarah Finnie Robinson, Director of Social Programming at Practically Green, calls this "digital peer pressure".
- Start a community garden, and invite the neighbors to be a part. (My wife and I are doing this in our backyard!)
- Bring reusable bags to the grocery store,
- Visit Grist.org for more ideas, and start on the path to a sustainable future!
Make every day Earth Day...make the wise choice!
Ventura to Valencia: Rolling Out the Green Carpet
Introducing the newest member of the Green Convergence team, Keith Graves!
Keith serves as our Director of Sales. With more than 20 years of construction sales experience, and a NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification, his experience and expertise make him an asset to the team.
Next month, Keith's wife, Jenn, and their two daughters will move from their home in Ventura to Valencia. We are excited to have the Graves family join ours.
Let's roll out the green carpet to welcome Keith. Stop by Green Convergence and say hello!
See You at Central Park!
It's time once again for Santa Clarita's Earth Arbor Day celebration! Next Saturday, April 16, from 10AM to 4PM, come by Central Park for entertainment and fun for the whole family. Earth Arbor Day includes six interactive zones, including a children's zone. The Green Convergence team will be there, too, so stop by and say hello! See you at the park!
Meet Santa Clarita's Solar-Powered Dentist...
Green Convergence is glad to partner with Dr. David and Christine Tanner, to make their Newhall building on Lyons Avenue the first solar-powered dentist in town. Last year, the Tanners chose Green Convergence to install high efficiency air-conditioning and a SunPower solar array on their home. Because of these measures, the Tanners now produce more power than they consume. They no longer have to pay anything to Southern California Edison for electricity, and this year they will receive a check back for the excess power they produce.
When the SCE meter reader came by the Tanners' house, Christine noticed him outside her kitchen window, staring at the meter with a puzzled look on his face. She asked if everything was okay, and he replied, "There must be something wrong with your meter." Nothing was wrong...the two air conditioners, six refrigerators, and pool were all drawing the exact same amount of energy from the grid that the solar poured back into it. The meter was holding steady. The Tanners' high efficiency and solar array were enough to eliminate their entire electric bill.
David and Christine were so happy with Green Convergence that they are now installing a SunPower solar array, monitor, and self-cleaning system on the Tanner Building, which houses the doctors’ offices and commercial rental space. Congratulations, Tanners! You know just what we mean when we say, "Saving the planet saves you money!"
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