Norwich Technologies in White River Junction, Vermont, is using a new method of installing solar panels.
TRANSCRIPT
Reporter: Norwich Solar says it has a new take on how to install solar panels. Joel Stettenheim: “So we’re a fairly new company that can already do it faster than anybody else out there. “Reporter: normally it’s done on location, all the components, the panel, inverters, and other hardware are brought to the job site to be assembled. But the company decided there was a better way. Joel Stettenheim: “What we said was when was the last time someone did that for you for a washing machine, came to your house and all the pieces out in your front yard and put it together and then brought it into your utility room. The same reason people don’t do that is a good reason for us not to do it with solar installations.”
Reporter: So, Norwich technologies designed a system for pre-assembling all those components in a controlled environment in the shop, they say they can do better quality work, faster, all while minimizing external problems, like the weather. Their rooftop solar modules can be built up in different configurations accommodating up to six panels they call it the EZ-PV. Then they bring the whole thing to the site, ready to go. In early December they demonstrated the process for the department of energy in Williston. After a few hours of preparation on the roof, installing some hardware, the individual modules get hoisted into position, and locked in place quickly. Connect a few wires and the EZ-PV is ready to go.
NST’s Joel Stettenheim: “We take what has been previously a process of a day or more and with an hour of roof prep and about an hour of installation time can complete a high-quality installation.” Reporter: beyond speed, they say pre-assembled panels are more reliable. Reporter: assembling and testing at the shop means it’s also easier to spot and replace defective components, before they’re on roof. It’s a system they say took plenty of time to develop.
NST’s Joel Stettenheim: “So we’ve got over 10,000 hours of engineering time that we’ve spent doing it over Andover and over and figuring out what those bottle-necks are.” Reporter: they’re pretty happy with what they’ve figured out so far, but are willing to refine their designs as they learn more. And while Norwich Technologies is amongst the first to do solar installation this way, they don’t expect the exclusivity to last.
NST’s Joel Stettenheim: “We think it’s a game changer. We think that once we’re out there in the market selling to third parties others will quickly follow us, so we’re working very hard to keep that head start. Striving to do solar faster and better, more than just one panel.”
