[RE-wrenches] Tax Deductible RE Donations (inspired by Inverter for Switch to GT)

[Joel Davidson]

Inverter for Switch to GTWrenches,
Following on comments about switching to grid-tie (or any other changes), what do you do with modules, mounts, inverters, etc. that no longer serve your clients' needs? Do you or your clients contribute the unneeded or unwanted equipment to a charitable or non-profit organization that qualifies the donation for a tax deduction? What are your favorite charities and non-profit orgs (what churches, schools, etc.)?
Joel Davidson
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Allan Sindelar 
  To: RE Wrenches 
  Sent: Wednesday, August 06, 2008 7:55 AM
  Subject: [RE-wrenches] Inverter for Switch to GT


  Wrenches, 
  Occasionally, but more frequently recently, we get requests to turn off-grid systems into grid-tie systems. Usually this involves sale of a property to a new owner, and either grid is brought in to facilitate an easier sale or the new owner brings it in. Once grid is in, the off-grid-based system is of limited utility, as the equipment won't sell back. Most of these new owners want a maintenance-free batteryless system.

  Unfortunately, most off-grid arrays don't easily convert, as the string sizing doesn't match. Here's my question: I have two of these requests right now. Both are systems we installed in the late 90s. One has ten BP 275s, one has twelve. These are standard 12V 75W modules common to that time. I need advice on inverters that will work with these strings.

  The Sunny Boy 700, which is the only small inverter model SMA still offers, will handle one string of up to nine of these in our temperature range. Larger models require higher string voltage. Fronius also requires higher voltage.

  You know, it's a real problem to have to explain to new green-oriented homeowners that there's nothing I can do with their ten-year-old PV system to make it spin their new meter backward. It doesn't do much for the mainstream perception of PV for these folks.

  What will work with these existing arrays, please? 

  Allan Sindelar 

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