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SOLAR DEMONSTRATION SYSTEM

Solar Demonstration System FAQ

Our solar demonstration units came on-line in the summer of 2015. Listed here are frequently asked questions and responses. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our office.

Soar Array Printable Brochure
Why did CWEC install a solar demonstration system?

Seeing an increase in the amount of co-op members exploring the possibility of installing a solar system, the co-op’s board of directors felt having a solar demonstration system available for member’s to examine would be an effective tool in their evaluation process.

Why are there two sets of panels?

We thought it would be helpful to show a couple of different styles of panel arrays. The first array, North Wind Renewable Energy panel, is a standard south facing panel. The second has two rows of panels installed in tandem, Ten K Solar – one facing south and the other facing north.

How large are the solar arrays at the co-op?

The standard array is comprised of 12 panels measuring 66” x 39.5” and is rated at 3.36 KW AC. The dual panel array is comprised of 16 panels measuring 77.5” x 51.5” and is rated at 4.2 KW AC.

Are the solar arrays large enough to cover th energy needs of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative's office?

No. Our building’s monthly average electric usage is around 16,775 kilowatt hours (kWhs). The combined projected monthly average output of the two solar arrays is 968 kWhs (346 for the standard and 622 for the dual).

Is the size of either solar array large enough to cover the needs of a typical residence in our area?

The average residential consumer on our system uses 858 kWhs per month. The projected output of the dual system is 622 kWhs per month. So probably not, but it depends on the actual electrical usage of the home. Individual usage varies according to house size, number of people and how electric devices are used. Solar system installers typically use past electrical usage when sizing a system. Because of high system costs, most systems are not sized to provide 100 percent of the electrical needs.

How much do solar arrays, similar to Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative's, cost?

The cost varies depending on site preparation. The typical cost of the type of systems at the co-op is between $20,000 and $30,000. 

How many years will the panels be operational?

We’re anticipating 20-plus years. Typically, the panels are very durable and performance does not degrade much over time.

How long is the payback on a solar system similar to the ones at the co-op?

Payback varies as no two solar system paybacks are the same. To determine a payback on a solar system, we recommend you consider the following:

  • Final cost of the system after incentives, such as rebates and the 30 percent federal tax credit;
  • The estimated yearly output of the system; and
  • The rate at which you will be paid by the electric utility for the system’s output to the grid.
Where does the electricity go when the system is producing electricity?

Both systems are interconnected with the grid, so their output goes directly onto our distribution wires, which in turn reduces the amount of wholesale power we need to purchase. The energy produced is not directly used by our building. 

Do either of the systems have a battery backup system?

No. The cost for battery backup for these types of systems is approximately $30,000.

Do these systems work in the event of a power outage?

No. All renewable systems with an inverter and no battery backup require line voltage to function and will not generate during an outage.

Does the weather and change of seasons affect the solar production?

Both the weather and seasonal changes will affect the amount of sun reaching the panels. During the summer, the panels will produce more energy because the days are longer and the sun is higher. If it’s a cloudy day, the panels will produce less.

Are tours of the system available?

Absolutely, just give us a call or stop by our office. 

How can I see what electricity the systems are generating?

We have monitors in our office displaying the output of the systems and have the same information available on our web site www.cwecoop.com.

What other renewable energy plans does Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative have?

Don’t forget we offer member rebates of up to $500 for renewable systems.

To aid you in finding more information about renewable/alternative energy sources we have compiled the following list of websites:

Midwest Renewable Energy Association

Wisconsin Geothermal Association

American Wind Energy Association

Solar Electric Power Association

National Biodiesel Board

National Hydropower Association

Focus on Energy Although we don’t participate in Focus on Energy their site is an excellent information source.

U.S. Department of Energy/Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy

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Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative

PO Box 100

10401 Lystul Road

Rosholt, WI  54473

 

Email: cwec@cwecoop.com

Phone: 715-677-2211

Toll Free: 800-377-2932

Pay by Phone: 1-844-239-0083

Fax: 715-677-4333

Office Hours: Monday thru Friday

7:30am - 4:00pm

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©2023 Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative. A Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

  • Home
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Board of Directors
    • Cooperative Principles
    • Capital Credits
    • Political Action
    • Member Involvement
    • Corporate Information
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Contact Us
    • History of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative
  • Electric Service
    • Service Map
    • New Construction
    • Conversion Guide
    • Service Disconnection
    • Service Requirements
      • CT Cabinets/Meters
      • New Service Hookup
      • Wiring Affidavit
    • Diggers Hotline
    • Outdoor Lighting
    • Vegetation Management
    • Tree Work Request
    • Power Line Safety
  • Billing
    • Pay Your Bill
    • Payment Options
    • New Member Application
    • Rates & Fees
    • Understanding Your Bill
    • Energy Assistance
    • Address Change
    • Member Contact Information
    • Meter Tampering Policy
    • Outage Notification
  • Member Services
    • Dairy Farm Rewiring Loan and Grant Program
    • Co-op Connections Program
    • Operation Round Up
    • STEAM Grant
    • Scholarship Opportunities
    • Youth Leadership Conference
    • Energy Audits
    • Energy Conservation Rewards
    • Load Management
    • Gift of Light
    • Life-Support Equipment
  • Products
    • GenerLink Transfer Switch
    • Water Heaters
  • Renewables
    • Complimentary Electric Vehicle Charging Station
    • CHARGE EV
    • New Distribution Generation System Procedures
    • Solar Demonstration System Output
    • Solar Demonstration System
  • Community
    • Economic Development
    • Community Room
    • Electric Demonstrations
    • Emergency Responder Safety Tips
    • Toys for Tots
    • Tree-Based Energy
    • Community Events Calendar
    • Shop Local Year-Round
  • News
    • 2023 Annual Meeting
    • Foundation for Rural Housing Reimbursment
    • Emergency Management Contacts
    • 2023 Member Photo Contest
    • 2022 "Life in Rural Wisconsin" Winning Photos
    • 2022 Member Appreciation Breakfast Photos
    • Safety Before & After Storms
    • Scam Alert
    • Electric Line Newsletter
    • Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
    • Energy Efficiency Rebates Available
    • Food Pantry Collection
    • Momentary Interruptions