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Groundbreaking Minnesota Wind Integration Study

Results of a new study show that, under the right policies, utilities can incorporate wind power into their resource portfolio, comprising up to 25% of their delivered energy, without sacrificing reliability and with minor costs for absorbing the wind. The Midwest Wind Integration Study, which was required by the Minnesota legislature in 2005 to evaluate reliability and other impacts of higher levels of wind generation and carried out independently by EnerNex Corporation and WindLogics, found that the total integration cost for up to 25% wind energy delivered to all Minnesota customers is less than one-half cent ($0.0045 cents) per kWh of wind generation. The 25% penetration level of wind is equivalent to that provided in the U.S. today by nuclear power (20%), or natural gas and hydropower combined (25%). “This study is groundbreaking in its examination of the highest level of wind energy penetration ever undertaken in an authoritative U.S. power system study,” said Utility Wind Integration Group (UWIG) Executive Director J. Charles Smith. UWIG brings together utilities that have wind on their systems or are interested in its development. ” Denmark and several regions in Europe have already achieved such high levels of wind energy use. What this study […]

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BP, Roofing Company Offer Solar Roofing to Homebuilders

The largest roofing company in Northern California has signed an agreement with BP Solar to market solar modules as standard roofing materials in new construction. Old Country Roofing (OCR) and BP Solar will market a turnkey roofing solution to over 100 homebuilders and homeowners. Beginning in January of 2007, OCR will offer a complete solar roofing package that includes design, installation, warranty and customer service. “Our relationship with BP Solar will enable us to significantly expand our solar installations for both homebuilders and homeowners in Northern California,” said Aaron Nitzkin, Vice President of Solar Operations at Old Country Roofing. “Solar modules have come a long way. They have morphed into a standardized, predictable, affordable roofing product.” The program will use BP Solar’s EnergyTile” product, a roof-tile design that blends seamlessly into the design of the roof. “Including solar into the build plan lowers the cost of installation for the homeowners,” said Paul Garvison, director of business development for BP Solar North America.

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