CUMMING, GA March 19, 2012 — The first solar home built by Habitat for Humanity in the state of Georgia is a shining example of Siemens solar technology. Solar panels and Siemens microinverter technology were installed by Radiance Solar on Saturday, March 17, to offer homeowner Melonie Lingo and her family years of substantial savings on their utility bills.
“Harvesting the sun’s energy will save the homeowner hundreds of dollars annually on their utility bills. The energy produced will be used within the home and any excess energy not consumed will go back to the grid. There’s no restriction on usage of any of the homeowner’s electrical appliances, because the supply is backed up by the utility service,” explained Barry Contrael, director, Siemens Low Voltage business unit.
"Radiance Solar is proud to collaborate with Siemens on such a rewarding Habitat project. Solar energy works efficiently for homes of every size, as well as businesses, schools, non-profits, and utility-scale projects", said James Marlow, CEO Radiance Solar.
The Siemens Microinverter System takes the power from each individual solar module mounted on the roof and immediately converts the DC power to AC 120-240 volts, then sends it down a circuit to the Siemens electrical panel ─ for seamless combination with the utility power on the user side of the utility meter. Panels are positioned on the south side of the roof where the sun is optimal in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Even when shading occurs on one module, the other modules function as standalone power to provide affordable, safe, clean power.
During daylight hours the system generates enough power to run internal appliances. Any excess electricity produced by the Siemens Microinverter System goes back to the grid and offsets the energy consumed at night. Ultimately, the solution along with energy efficient appliances, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and lighting ensure the Lingo family will find relief from their utility bills as long as they own their home.
Solar technology is an integral component of the Siemens $100,000 partnership with Habitat for Humanity to build the organization’s first solar home in Georgia. The Siemens sponsorship also includes the Microinverter System and employee construction volunteers. Habitat for Humanity-North Central Georgia’s (HFH-NCG) integration of Siemens technology is a vital component of Habitat’s mission to provide ongoing affordable housing and sustainable building practices for deserving families in the north Georgia area.
“Siemens has a global, corporate commitment to sustainability, so we are truly honored to work with Habitat for Humanity to build a greener Georgia,” said Contrael.
Siemens employee volunteers began construction on January 21, 2012, working along side the Lingo family and the Habitat crews on Saturdays. “The Siemens volunteers and my crews have braved many weeks of cold, rain and tornado threats, so it’s comforting to know that the Lingos’ solar-powered home will not be affected by such adverse weather conditions in the future,” said Chuck Ingraham, HFH-NCG construction manager.