[RE-wrenches] BIPV Options

[Dave Click]

Good input on the Atlantis options-- does anyone have experience with 
the www.bipvinc.com or www.lumetasolar.com products?

On 2012/10/2 13:06, Robert Evans wrote:
> I installed the BOS for an Atlantis Sunslates system back in 2003-04,
> and commissioned the system. Based on my experience I couldn't
> recommend them, unless they have fixed the product.
>
> The customer had already contracted with Atlantis and an approved
> roofer to install the Sunslates on his residence. I was around during
> the install of the slates and while indeed time consuming it actually
> went pretty smoothly and looked good. I was worried though when I saw
> all the series connectors and realized that the system didn't offer
> any airflow under the slates.
>
> The system performed subpar right out of the gates (as compared to
> framed mods on racks) - especially during the summer on hot days -
> remember there was no airflow. However after just 2 years the system
> production really nosedived (50% of similar framed mod system) due to
> poorly designed connectors (not MC type but funky cam-closures that I
> had never seen before) that built up high resistance connections and
> slates that failed due to poor internal connections.
>
> Troubleshooting was very difficult due to poor access to the
> connections. Atlantis did send people out often over the years to try
> and correct the situation, and they added more slates to the roof to
> compensate for the poor production. But the system continually had
> problems, and the customer never really got any satisfaction. It's
> actually way to long a story to tell here.
>
> I think BIPV always has these challenges inherent:
> Expensive product.
> Expensive labor intensive install.
> Lots of connections.
> Difficult access to connections.
> Poor airflow and hot operating cell temps.
>
> Well designed products can help mitigate these. Poor designed products
> make these issues worse. There is a reason why BIPV has not
> proliferated on residential buildings.
>
> Maybe Atlantis has fixed these issues? I was never interested in
> promoting the product so I've never looked into it. But anyone looking
> to put this product up should really do some homework.
>
> And one more thing - anytime a customer gets a system installed from 2
> parties - one for the array and one for the BOS, it becomes difficult
> for all involved should the system not perform well. I learned a
> lesson and never got involved in a split up job like this in the
> future.
>
> Bob Evans
> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
> Evans Energy Systems
> Santa Cruz, CA
> 831-345-3459
>