PG&E Corporation and Solar Electric Supply Inc. have successfully launched a fully operational MAPPS® hybrid solar PV power system at the Pittsburg, California landfill biomethane project. The system, initially delivered in August 2023, has been reporting flawless performance since July 2024, according to PG&E. This innovative system, designed by Solar Electric Supply, provides renewable primary critical power for monitoring and control equipment at the Biomethane Project. The collaboration between PG&E and Solar Electric Supply highlights their joint commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies for sustainable energy initiatives.
The hybrid solar system plays a crucial role in ensuring a consistent and reliable renewable power supply, which is essential for the success of the landfill-gas-to-energy project developed by Ameresco, Inc. This project, managed in partnership with PG&E and the City of Pittsburg, addresses the issue of landfill gas contributing to local smog and greenhouse gas emissions. Garrett Gettleman, CEO of Solar Electric Supply, emphasized the unique nature of this project, stating, "This project was different, truly demonstrating the future potential of integrating multiple renewable sources to the benefit of the local community." The system captures escaped gas through extraction wells and converts it into heat and electricity for use by the facility and nearby community, with PG&E purchasing the gas wholesale from the facility.
The MAPPS solar system's design and installation process received praise from Glenn Rustia, the PG&E engineer responsible for the system's operation and maintenance. He noted, "The MAPPS solar system was well designed, and the installation went smoothly. We really appreciated the onsite support. The automatic hybrid genset/solar operation was verified, ensuring reliable power to our client, Ameresco." This collaboration between PG&E and Solar Electric Supply sets a precedent for effective public-private partnerships in pursuing energy sustainability. By focusing on integrated solutions and renewable energy technologies, these companies are taking significant steps in addressing climate change challenges and building a more resilient energy grid.
The custom MAPPS® Hybrid Solar + Genset System, tailored specifically for the biomethane project's needs, includes a 6.4 kW solar array using Qcells G10+ 400 Watt modules, three SES MAPPS Custom Battery and Electronics Enclosures, two 48V parallel stacks of Deka Unigy II VRLA Batteries, and an Outback Dual Inverter System with four FM80 Controllers. Solar Electric Supply provided custom PE stamped engineering and Solar Plan Sets to facilitate local permitting and approval, as well as onsite commissioning and system training. This project represents a significant step forward in the integration of renewable energy sources and showcases the potential for similar initiatives in other communities. By harnessing landfill gas and solar power, the Pittsburg biomethane project not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also provides a sustainable energy source for local use.
The successful implementation of this hybrid solar system at the Pittsburg landfill demonstrates the viability of such solutions for other waste management facilities and renewable energy projects across the country. It serves as a model for how innovative technologies and collaborations can drive the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future. More information about PG&E's renewable energy initiatives can be found at https://www.pge.com, while details about Solar Electric Supply's technologies are available at https://www.solarelectricsupply.com.
