Engineering Commons^™

Problems And Solutions: Training Disaster Organizations On The Use Of Pv, Florida Solar Energy Center, William Young

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In 1992, the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) and Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) assisted the University of Miami Field Epidemiology Survey Team (FEST) with photovoltaic systems to power temporary medical clinics after Hurricane Andrew struck south Dade County. At that time, it became apparent that there were no educational materials prepared for disaster relief or emergency management personnel on the use of photovoltaic (PV) to supply electrical power in response to a disaster. This need prompted FSEC to create an education program to develop awareness and train organizations on the proper use of PV in disasters. Since then, FSEC has …

Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System Design Review And Approval, Florida Solar Energy Center, James Dunlop

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This document provides details of operations and procedures for the approval of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system designs and documentation conducted by the Florida Solar Energy Center. The principal goal of this process is to help ensure the safety and quality of installed PV systems, and provides an assurance to installers, consumers and financiers that approved designs meet accepted codes and industry practices, and are accompanied by a complete System Manual that meets the minimum requirements outlined in this document.

Test Method For Photovoltaic Module Ratings, Florida Solar Energy Center, Kevin Lynn

FSEC Energy Research Center®

This document describes the testing and reporting requirements for certification and labeling of photovoltaic modules (PV) for their power ratings. The test methods and procedures chosen for this purpose are based on consensus standards of relevant committees of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), or the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Improved Specifications For Federally Procured Ruggedized Manufactured Homes For Disaster Relief In Hot/Humid Climates, Florida Solar Energy Center, Stephanie Thomas-Rees

FSEC Energy Research Center®

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) uses ruggedized manufactured homes to provide short term housing solutions during the repair and rebuilding phase after a natural disaster.

Federally procured manufactured homes are currently constructed in accordance with the Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) manufactured housing standards and typically built to the minimum code requirements. These homes can consume more energy than their site built comparatives and use materials and mechanical systems that can potentially contribute to poor indoor quality and low durability. Two improved specifications are presented in this report to enhance energy efficiency, sustainability, indoor air quality and provide back …

Impact Of Solar Powered Disaster-Resistant Communities, Florida Solar Energy Center, William Young

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Natural and man made disasters can destroy lives, homes, businesses, the economy and the environment. Disasters can happen with little or no warning, leaving hundreds or even thousands of people without medical services, potable water, sanitation, communications and electrical services for up to several weeks. This paper identifies the imperative for and value of creating disaster-resistant homes and communities. The use of renewables, the application of distributed generation, implementation of energy-efficient building designs and construction of disaster-resistant structures can minimize the destruction of property, cost of recovery and disruption of lives. Through enhanced construction practices and the use of solar …