Solar Energy Resources
Grid Tie Inverters | FroniusViridian Energy Co-operative uses the transformer-less Fronius Primo, as it is an efficient compact single-phase inverter for residential and small-scale commercial applications. In accordance with ESA rules for residential applications, the Fronius Primo can operate efficiently at a maximum input voltage of 600 V. And for increased efficiency and additional cost savings for commercial applications, the Fronius Primo can operate at the maximum input voltage of 1,000 V. AP SystemsAP Systems microinverters mark a breakthrough in solar technology, making PV arrays more powerful, smart, reliable, cost effective and safe. Viridian Energy Co-operative uses AP Systems microinverter technology as this solar technology individually monitors and maximizes power generation for each module in the array, boosting system efficiency by up to 20 percent. Each AP Systems microinverter handles multiple PV modules, lowering logistics, installation and balance-of-system costs. The AP Systems EMA, the robust wireless Energy Monitoring and Analysis software enables comprehensive, web-based monitoring that analyzes and reports the performance of each module in the solar array. This real-time data can be accessed from any web-connected device, anywhere, anytime. |
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Off Grid Inverters | MagnumViridian Energy Co-operative works with Magnum products for reliable power regardless of grid connectivity, Magnum inverter / chargers, interconnection system equipment, and accessories are a solid base to build a back-up or off-grid power system. XantrexXantrex inverters have revolutionized independent mobile power systems, providing silent AC electricity anytime, anywhere. Viridian Energy Co-operative uses these products in off-grid projects. An inverter transforms the DC electricity stored in batteries into standard household AC power. With a Xantrex inverter a user don’t have to rely on hard-to-find DC-powered appliances or a noisy generator. Xantrex inverters are efficient and reliable devices that come in a variety of sizes and power ranges to meet just about any power need. Xantrex backup power products are power generators that are quiet and safe for indoor use. These products provide standard household electricity to run a wide variety of electronic equipment and appliances when electric utility power is not available. Ideal for weather emergencies, power outages, Xantrex backup power products are available in different sizes and power ranges.. |
Modules | Canadian SolarCanadian Solar was founded with a mission: to foster sustainable development and to create a better and cleaner earth for future generations by bringing electricity powered by the sun to millions of people worldwide. Under Dr. Qu’s leadership, Canadian Solar has grown into one of the world’s largest solar photovoltaic products and energy solutions providers, as well as one of the largest solar power plant developers globally. Hanwha Q CellsViridian Energy Co-operative uses Hanzha Q CELLS modules. Q CELLS is the product brand of Hanwha Q CELLS, one of the largest photovoltaic manufacturers in the world. Q.ANTUM Technology maximizes the efficiency of conventional solar panels. This produces high performances under real conditions, in winter or summer and under clear or cloudy skies. Solar panels with the Q.ANTUM Technology achieve maximum efficiencies from mass production, which has been independently confirmed, with a world record 19.5%, by the independent Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE. |
Racking | Schletter RackingThe Schletter Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of solar mounting systems. They develop and manufacture mounting solutions made of aluminum and steel for solar farms, flat roofs and pitched roofs. Viridian Energy Co-operative uses their racking and mounting systems. Their sophisticated solutions deliver supreme quality and durability – wherever the sun shines. |
DIY Solar | Home Power MagazineA DIY magazine for clean energy advocates. Home Power's archive content is designed to educate and inspire clean energy advocates.. |
Solar News | PV Buzz MediaSolar Photovoltaic (PV) Industry-Focused Newswire. They specialize in news reports/analysis and cutting-edge R&D discoveries. They publish breaking news, insights, industry perspectives and track growing trends in the North American solar market. |
Solar Energy Modelling | System Advisor Model (SAM)The System Advisor Model (SAM) is a free techno-economic software model that facilitates decision-making for the renewable energy industry. SAM can model many types of renewable energy systems: Photovoltaic systems, from small residential rooftop to large utility-scale systems. HelioScope: Advanced Solar Design SoftwareA web-based sales and design tool for solar professionals. From its robust 3D design engine and bankable energy yield simulator to its detailed financial calculator and drag-and-drop proposal editor.. |
Utility Information | BC Hydro Net MeteringThe BC Hydro net metering program is designed for those who generate electricity for their own use. When you generate more than you need, you sell it to BC Hydro. When you don't generate enough to meet your needs, you buy it from them. When you sell to BC Hydro, you get a bill credit towards your future electricity use. If you still have an excess credit at your anniversary date, they'll pay you for the electricity at the market price. Fortis BCThis resource provides information on when you generate your own renewable energy so you can reduce your electricity bill, you can join the Net Metering Program. Residential, commercial and irrigation customers can participate. |
Co-operative Education | BC CoopBC Coop is building BC’s cooperative economy. BCCA membership is open to all BC co-operatives, credit unions, and organizations that support co-operatives. BC Coop provides access to customized programs, services and key knowledge to help co-op businesses launch, operate and grow. It is a community of like-minded, experienced co-op owners, including some of Canada’s largest co-ops and credit unions, to share ideas and get advice. Province of BCThis resource provides information on the legislation and incorporation regulations for the province of British Columbia. In B.C., a cooperative association (co-op) is an organization that is owned and operated by the people who use and benefit from its services. Co-ops help develop communities and create jobs by offering a range of supports such as housing, food, health care, and many other essential products and services. Incorporating a co-operative in BC Canadian Worker Co-op FederationThe CWCF mission is to work in solidarity with members to achieve our Vision of a Co-operative Economy and to support the development of new worker co-ops. Their goal is to represent and promote the Canadian worker co-op movement in Canada and internationally. |
Community Organizations | SSRECThe Salish Sea Renewable Energy Cooperative (SSREC) is a local cooperative of dedicated volunteers who are enthusiastic about solar energy and strive to decrease our carbon footprint and save some money along the way. Viridian Energy Co-operative partners with SSREC on their bulk purchase/installation of solar systems around the Salish Sea for members and the goal is to add to the 55 systems SSREC and Viridian Energy Co-operative helped install already. This is a great opportunity to join the solar revolution at a very competitive price. Fernwood RenoFernwood Reno is the creation of a net-zero home through a systems approach that anyone can replicate. It is the journey of the conversion of a 1912 house in Victoria, BC. As the majority of homes in the Greater Victoria Area are older homes, renovation to create more energy efficiency is vital to reducing an old home's significant carbon footprint. Viridian Energy Co-operative designed and installed the 10.98 kW solar power system that will generate %110 of this home's annual energy demand. This project is a model for the Fernwood neighbourhood, Greater Victoria Area, and beyond as it demonstrates the possibilities of making an old home energy efficient and how solar energy works and integrates into a net-zero design. There are many renovation tips, energy efficiency system recommendations and resources to be learned from this project, including the important role of solar energy. |