Update: S2A Modular has taken its factory in Patterson, California, off-grid by retrofitting the facility and its existing PVGraf Solar system with a Tesla Megapack. The Megapack is a large-scale energy storage system composed of lithium-ion batteries. The Patterson factory has operated disconnected from the grid since early November.
Kern Solar Structures is partnering with S2A Modular and FreeVolt USA to provide Solar CarPorT structures for their network of 35 “MegaFactories” throughout North America. The first phase of the partnership kicks off with the construction of two custom 240-kW solar carport systems at S2A Modular’s Patterson and Hemet MegaFactories.
“Part of S2A Modular’s success has been choosing the right partners, and we are very excited at what Kern is able to bring to the table. Their exclusive use of high-quality materials allows them to create some of the best and strongest solar awnings in the industry,” said John Rowland, president and co-founder of S2A Modular. “One of the most important features of Kern’s Solar CarPorT is its expansion capability that allows us to seamlessly add more awnings and solar generation capacity if needed. Solar is a critical aspect to our MegaFactory operations, and we are confident in Kern’s ability to deliver structures that will last for decades.”
The first Solar CarPorT system being installed consists of three individual carport structures which are designed to allow for system expansion and increased generation capacity as the factories expand its operations. The individual structures are coated in a two-tone polysiloxane protective coating in S2A Modular’s trademark green and white. They also feature laser-cut, back-lit, solar wrap column enhancements which include an illuminated S2A Modular logo.
These structures are designed to support a custom PVGRAF solar system designed by FreeVolt USA consisting of more than 800 300-W PVGRAF solar panels. FreeVolt USA is the world’s only manufacturer of graphene-based PV modules.
The MegaFactories are designed for energy efficiency, and the Solar CarPorTs and PVGRAF modules are critical components and will provide all energy needed to run the factory. Each MegaFactory will also use a large commercial energy storage system like the Tesla PowerPack to store energy generated by the FreeVolt modules.
S2A Modular has developed self-sustaining homes with tailor-made features, using modular construction, net zero and net positive energy efficiency using renewable building materials. Construction of the Patterson MegaFactory Solar CarPorT System is scheduled for late 2020.
News item from Kern Solar Structures
can these be added to existing structures?
“The first phase of the partnership kicks off with the construction of two custom 240-kW solar carport systems at S2A Modular’s Patterson and Hemet MegaFactories.”
About time, industry seems to have received the memo. Industrial and commercial buildings have a lot of roof space and space for covered parking, might as well use these spaces to get rid of the constant overhead of energy costs to operate. Building solar, with solar, that’s a sustainable way forward.