Engineering Commons^™

Evaluate Deployment Of Photovoltaic Systems For Disasters, Florida Solar Energy Center, William Young

FSEC Energy Research Center®

In 1996, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), developed a program with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide photovoltaic electrical power in disasters. In support of this effort, DOE purchased eight PV-generator trailers which were constructed in 1998 and supplied to FEMA for deployment in disaster response efforts. This report describes past and present use of the trailers, their depot location, list maintenance data, and the viability of the trailers in a disaster.

Photovoltaics In Disaster Management, Florida Solar Energy Center, William Young

FSEC Energy Research Center®

Man made or natural, disasters can happen at any time, often with little or no advance warning. Major disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, tornados, and earthquakes, can leave many people without adequate medical services, potable water, electrical service and communications. They can be as destructive as Hurricane Mitch leaving several hundred-thousand people homeless or as minor as an afternoon thunderstorm knocking down local power lines to your home.

In response to a disaster, photovoltaic (solar electric) modules offer a source of quiet, safe, pollution-free electrical power. Photovoltaic (PV) power systems are capable of providing the electrical needs for vaccine refrigerators, …