GeoStar has introduced the Sycamore Series geothermal comfort system, which combines a variable capac- ity compressor with a variable speed blower motor and a variable speed loop pump to scale output to exactly the lev- el needed, rather than running at one or two speeds. Available in 3- to 5-ton capacities, the series achieves an EER of 41 and a 5.3 COP. The Sycamore’s variable capacity compressor offers soft- start capabilities that eliminate light flicker and gently ramps up to speed for quiet operation.
Cogenra’s proprietary technology captures up to 75 percent of the sun’s delivered energy and converts it into electricity and hot water within a single solar array. To achieve five times the efficiency of traditional solar arrays, Cogenra integrates silicon PV cells, concentrating planar optics with single- axis tracking, and an innovative thermal transfer system in a low-cost and scalable design. The design also cools the PV components, enhancing their efficiency, performance and life.
The PureCell fuel cell solution from UTC Power uses clean, quiet fuel cell technology to generate 400 kW of electric power using natural gas as input fuel. In a fuel cell, no fossil fuel combustion takes place. The only byproduct of the process is heat, about 1.7 MMBtu per hour (or about 500 kW), that can be easily harnessed to provide space heating or domestic hot water, or with the addition of an optional absorption chiller can produce about 50 tons of cooling.
Green Power Resource Management Inc. has released its Solar Powered Air Conditioner & Virtual Power Plant, which provides efficient cool- ing, AC power, and backup energy for residential and small commercial buildings. The DC-engineered system operates with solar panels, a wind turbine, batteries or AC power. It provides renewable energy even when the grid is down. The product features 13,500-Btu-per-hour cooling capacity, battery backup of 450Ah and two plug-in receptacles providing 1,500-watts-per-hour AC power.
Concorde Battery Corp. has introduced four Sun Xtender AGM deep-cycle batteries for renewable energy and photovoltaic systems. The batteries, which are available in 12-, 6- and 2-volt configurations, were developed to offer flexibility when designing battery bank configurations. Constructed with valve- regulated-lead-acid absorbed-glass-mat technology, the batteries are non- spillable and maintenance free. Thicker plates than the industry standard offer excellent cycling capability, better float life and extended battery life.
TURBINE IS FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES
The Bergey Excel 10 kW wind turbine is best suited for residential and com- mercial property of at least 1 acre, an electric bill averaging more than $150 per month and a wind resource of at least 10 mph. The turbine has an AWEA- rated annual energy of 13,200 kWh at 11-mph average and a 54.7 dBA AWEA- rated sound level. Its maximum design wind speed is 135 mph, and the turbine is built to operate 30 to 50 years.