Where We’ll Be in June

Solar Investment Strategy 101 on June 26

LightWave Solar is hosting a presentation for CPAs, CFOs, Business Owners and Facility Managers to show how solar energy investments work for businesses.  We will cover the financial incentives for commercial solar projects and show cash flow analyses, including a finance model that shows a 33% 20-year IRR on cash outlay for a 50kW solar installation. The approach combines a 5% 10 year loan, federal tax incentives and TVA’s Green Power Providers solar premiums.  Please join us to learn more!

Solar Investment Strategy 101
Wed, June 26 from noon-1pm (Lunch provided)
Adventure Science Center
800 Fort Negley Blvd
Nashville, TN 37203
RSVP: Grace Robertson at grobertson@lightwavesolar.com or 615-641-4050 x104

Memphis & Shelby County Sustainability Summit June 26-27

Reserve your seat at the Memphis & Shelby County Sustainability Summit for answers to your energy and sustainability questions from nationally recognized energy experts.

This event is provided free of charge by the Tennessee Energy Education Initiative in collaboration with the Memphis & Shelby County Office of Sustainability.
• Hear firsthand accounts of success stories from FedEx, Mayo Clinic, and Habitat for Humanity
• Learn about technology upgrades related to HVAC, LED lighting, solar, and energy management
• Participate in customized tracks designed specifically for the opportunities and challenges faced within healthcare, education, and multi-family housing

Download the full agenda here and see how you and your organization can benefit.

E3 Innovate Builder Workshop in Nashville June 21

9:30 – 2 PM at Greater Nashville Association of Realtors
4540 Trousdale Dr, Nashville 37204

Join us at E3 Innovate’s Workshop for Builders, Architects and Realtors.  As our economy continues to rebuild and the housing industry rebounds, leaders in the building industry are looking for a way to stand out, increase their profitability, and expand their competitive edge. At the event, industry experts will:

• Identify building and housing trends
• Define the process of Building a High Performance Home
• Answer questions about Home Energy Rating Score (HERS) and ENERGY STAR v.3.0
• Explain the Home Certification process and benefits of Preliminary Energy Modeling
• Share Builder benefits and importance of third party verification
• Introduce Guest Experts, Dr. Allison Bailes, President of The Energy Vanguard and Wendy Monday, Bob Parks Realty
• Introduce Vendors: LightWave Solar, Pella Windows and Doors, Precision Air Heating and Cooling, AllAmerican Pest Control and Gardens of Babylon.
• Much much more…

Early bird tickets are $85 ($115 regularly).  Space is limited so register today! Click here to register.

TREEDC Forum in Franklin June 12

The Tennessee Renewable Energy and Economic Development Council (TREEDC) hosts an energy forum that will cover topics including electric cars, energy efficient buildings, and solar PV. The event will feature the solar project completed at the new Music City Center, which LightWave Solar installed. Click here for Agenda and registration.

Nashville Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours June 12

LightWave Solar will join fellow Chamber members at the brand new Music City Center for networking from 5:30-7:30 pm.  LightWave Solar will have a display table.  Click here for more info.

Blue Plum Festival in Johnson City June 7-9

LightWave Solar is excited to attend the Blue Plum Festival, an event that celebrates downtown Johnson City with music, food, art, local business exhibits, and more. LightWave Solar will have a booth near the info tent on Main Street.  More info is available here: www.blueplum.org

Industry Update: TVA Solar Initiatives Fall Short

Capacity has been reached in TVA’s two solar programs, Green Power Providers (GPP) and Solar Solutions Initiative (SSI). TVA is not approving new applications at this time. However, LightWave Solar will sign contingent contracts and complete utility paperwork to be ready to submit project applications as soon as TVA releases capacity.

We are requesting that TVA make the following actions to smooth out the program:

1. On June 1, 2013, reinstate unused/expired capacity in GPP from the fourth quarter 2012. It is our understanding that approximately 20 percent of the approved capacity from that period was actually built within the 180-day time limit.

2. Going forward, release capacity back into the GPP program on a monthly basis following the six month expiration of agreements (i.e., unused capacity from applications approved during January 2013 is released back into the program on August 1, and so forth).

3.Take steps to prevent speculative applications from taking up capacity, including a Valley-wide applicationfee and requiring a copy of the check between the owner or third party and their selected solar contractor. The purpose of this check is to prevent wild swings in the program, burdening local distributors, solar contractors and TVA with applications that do not have contracts.

4. Beginning June 1, roll unused capacity forward from the 2012 SSI program into 2013. Since the pilot program was a 2-year 20 MW program, and TVA had less than 2 MW built in the first year, 18 MW should be available in 2013. In addition, only signed contracts should count toward the cap, not simply applications received.

We are not asking TVA to increase their spending on solar electricity; we simply want to see that 100% of allotted capacity is built. On the other hand, TVA’s spending on solar electricity is minimal, and we refute TVA’s claim that they need to cap solar incentives to protect ratepayers. Private individuals and businesses make the capital investments in solar projects, and TVA should be expected to buy the electricity at a rate that reflects the value of the power that does not pollute, does not create costly disasters and does not require TVA (ratepayers) to pay for new power plants, maintenance, compliance, insurance, etc.  In addition, when TVA buys solar electricity, they own all of the environmental attributes, the Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs), that can be sold on the SREC market.  Solar is a win for everyone – TVA, ratepayers, clean air and water and the economy.

We encourage you to contact TVA to voice your opinions. Click here to visit the TVA Board of Directors webpage.

TVA’s Green Power Providers Program Near Full Capacity

On January 1, TVA opened the Green Power Providers (GPP) program for 2013, and they are currently approving applications. Under GPP, TVA will buy solar PV generation at 9 cents/kilowatt-hour above the current rate (about 10 cents/kWh). This totals about 19 cents per kWh – nearly double the retail rate!

TVA has implemented a program capacity limit of 7.5 megawatts (MW) for 2013. Currently, TVA has approved applications for over 4.5 MW, over 60% of total capacity.  Because 1.5 MW is reserved for systems under 10 kW, the program is 75% full for systems over 10 kW.

If you or anyone you know is interested in installing solar, now is the time to get your TVA application submitted. To get started, contact LightWave Solar. We will provide a free solar consultation to help you decide if solar is right for you. Then, we help coordinate the GPP application, and help secure your approval. TVA program dashboard is updated every Friday and can be viewed here: http://www.tva.com/greenpowerswitch/providers/dashboard.htm.

Where We’ll Be in April 2013

Nashville Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 20

Nashville’s Earth Day Festival is a free, family friendly event that will help the community take another step toward Mayor Karl Dean’s goal of making Nashville the greenest city in the Southeast. The event will feature exhibits and activities aimed at educating Nashvillians about protecting our environment. With nearly a hundred family-friendly booths, hosted by community groups, environmental organizations and government agencies, the event will offer fun and exciting hands-on activities for all ages.

Saturday, April 20 11a.m.-7p.m.
Centennial Park in Nashville

Event highlights include live music from Bill Swayze, Elizabeth Cook, and Bill Farris & the Roseland Rhythm Revue; Yazoo Beer Garden; Free bike valet; Recycling and disposal drop-off opportunities; Green marketplace; Childrens activities; and Seminars and workshops. More info available at http://www.nashvilleearthday.org.

ETSU Earth Month:
Kilowatt Ours movie showing & Renewable Energy Panel Discussion on April 15

Monday, April 15 7:00-8:30 p.m.
East Tennessee State University Main Campus
D.P. Culp University Center – Forum Room on 3rd floor

This documentary explains where our electricity comes from, why it is important to decrease energy use, and practical steps individuals can take to reduce energy consumption. A panel discussion will follow the film. It is free and open to the public. Details on this event and other ETSU Earth month events is available here: http://www.etsu.edu/students/sorc/earthMonth.aspx

ETSU Earth Day Festival April 22

Environmental groups from the campus community as well as local businesses will come together on Earth Day to share their knowledge and experiences regarding environmental/sustainability issues in the area. The Earth Day celebration will include a variety of fun activities and music!

Monday, April 22 10am-2pm
East Tennessee State University Main Campu
Borchuck Plaza (Rain location: Cave Patio)
Johnson City, TN

More info on ETSU Earth Day events is available here: http://www.etsu.edu/students/sorc/earthMonth.aspx

TN Solar Summit April 10-11

In downtown Chattanooga, DOE’s Sunshot Initiative hosts the TN Solar Summit, a retrospective and future look into the status of solar power in Tennessee.  Meet solar stakeholders from across the region and form new partnerships to keep the momentum going.  Be a part of moving Tennessee’s solar industry forward!

Click here for agenda and registration information.

Kilowatt Ours Energy Workshops through April

Attend a fun, informative Energy Saving Workshop that shows how you can make simple changes in your home that result in noticeable savings on your energy bills.  This Inglewood-area workshop series is brought to you by Kilowatt Ours and Urban Green Lab. No cost to attend.

•     Free energy-saving products for participants
•     Learn tips you can put in place immediately at no cost
•     Presented by Kilowatt Ours and Urban Green Lab
•     This non-profit initiative is made possible by generous support from the following: Memorial Foundation, Bridgestone/Firestone, Constellation Energy, E3 Innovate, LightWave Solar, & Village Fund

WHEN: Saturday March 23, 10:30 a.m. to noon
WHERE: Inglewood Public Library
4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville 37216

WHEN: Tuesday, March 26, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: South Inglewood Community Center
1624 Rebecca Street, Nashville 37216

WHEN: Saturday April 27, 10:30 a.m. to noon
WHERE: Inglewood Public Library
4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville 37216

WHEN: Tuesday, April 30, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: South Inglewood Community Center
1624 Rebecca Street, Nashville 37216Kilo

E3 Innovate & LightWave Solar: Partners in Creating a High Performing Home

This video features E3 INNOVATE and LightWave Solar working together to provide a comprehensive energy makeover for local homeowners. LightWave Solar installed solar panels to provide 85% of their energy needs, and E3 provided spray foam insulation, air leaking sealing, bathroom ventilation and other services to bridge the remaining energy consumption gap. These services will improve the energy savings, health, durability and comfort of their home.

Where We’ll Be in December 2012

Open House Lunch & Learn on Dec 14: “How Solar Can Work for Your Business”

LightWave Solar is hosting a free lunch & learn to explain the benefits of adding solar photovoltaics (PV) to a business. We will cover TVA’s new solar incentive program and provide an overview of the available tax incentives. Homeowners and others are welcome to attend, too.

Friday, December 14 from 12-1pm.  Lunch provided!
LightWave Solar’s Office & Warehouse
3026 Owen Drive, Suite 104
Antioch, TN 37013

The event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to Grace Robertson at grobertson@lightwavesolar.com or call 615-641-4050 x104.

Lunch & Learn in Sevierville on Dec 14: “How Solar Can Work for Your Home or Business”

LightWave Solar is hosting a free lunch & learn to explain the benefits of adding solar photovoltaics (PV) to your home or business. We will cover TVA’s new solar incentive program and the other financial benefits of adding solar to a home or business, including an overview of the available tax incentives.

Friday, December 14 from 12-1pm. Lunch provided!
Sevierville Civic Center in the Council Hall Room
200 Gary Wade Blvd
Sevierville, TN 37862

The event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to Alexis Close at aclose@lightwavesolar.com or call 423-737-0151.

Lunch & Learn in Memphis on Dec 14: “How Solar Can Work for Your Home or Business”

LightWave Solar is hosting a free lunch & learn to explain the benefits of adding solar photovoltaics (PV) to your home or business. We will cover TVA’s new solar incentive program and the other financial benefits of adding solar to a home or business, including an overview of the available tax incentives.

Friday, December 14 from 12-1pm. Lunch provided!
River Tower at South Bluffs Clubhouse
655 Riverside Drive
Memphis, TN 38103

The event is free and open to the public.

Please RSVP to Grace Robertson at grobertson@lightwavesolar.com or call 615-641-4050 x104.

City Square celebrates solar anniversary

Happy two year solar anniversary to City Square Commercial Center in Hendersonville!

Where We’ll Be in June 2012

Tennessee Historic Preservation Fair
Saturday, June 2 from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Eastwood Christian Church
1601 Eastland Avenue
Nashville, TN 37206
More info here

LightWave Solar Johnson City Open House
Wednesday, June 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
516 W. Oakland Ave, Ste 102
Johnson City, TN 37604
Learn about solar and see a working solar display. There will be snacks, drinks & games!

Solar 101 Workshop
Wednesday, June 13 from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
JCAHBA Office
1001 North Roan Street
Johnson City, TN 37601

LightWave Solar Installs 400 kW for Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee

Atop their headquarters and warehouse facilities, solar PV furthers Goodwill’s mission of sustainability

May 4, 2012

 

Nashville, Tenn. – The largest area installer of solar PV systems in Tennessee, LightWave Solar, recently completed two solar installations totaling 400 kilowatts at Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee in downtown Nashville.  The projects were 100 percent funded by the non-profit and are among the last systems under the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Generation Partners program for systems over 50 kW.

“The systems will generate over $100,000 per year for Goodwill,” says Steve Johnson, President of LightWave Solar.  “They have invested in equipment that will help them hedge against rising fuel costs over the next 30 to 40 years.”

At their distribution warehouse, 200 kW is expected to offset nearly 80 percent of the building’s electric use.  Another 200 kW on their headquarters will offset about 45 percent.  Each system incorporates 832 Canadian Solar 240-watt solar panels, two 95kW Solectrica Renewables inverters, and Solectrica’s SolrenView web-based monitoring to track production and environmental benefits in real-time.  Over the next 30 years, the systems will offset carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (NOX), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions that are equivalent to planting 2,400 acres of trees.

“We’re in the business of re-use,” says David Lifsey, CEO of Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee. “The items we sell might otherwise be destined for a landfill.  Making use of a resource like sunlight makes sense and fits right in with our mission.”

Goodwill is a not-for-profit corporation whose primary mission is to provide training and employment services to people who have disabilities or who otherwise have trouble finding and keeping a job.  They fund their operation through the sale of donated goods.

Their new solar systems are in addition to 60kW they installed last year.

“It is prudent to take advantage of the pollution-free, abundant and cost effective power of the sun,” says Lifsey.  Goodwill’s board of directors has shown good stewardship of Goodwill’s resources and the world’s resources by their forward thinking decisions to utilize solar generation as part of our overall energy usage.”

On March 29 and 30, 2012, the systems were grid-interconnected by Nashville Electric Service (NES) and TVA.

To learn more about this project, contact LightWave Solar at 615-641-4050 and info@lightwavesolar.com.  Monitoring data and project video are located here: http://monitor.lightwavesolar.com/goodwill.