Solar Backup Power Generation

The project goal is to perform a site assessment to identify the optimal location for a solar panel array. Once an optimal location has been identified, we are to submit a completed design including component selection, one-line diagrams, and any necessary schematics and renders. Additionally we will create an economic analysis comparing the cost of the proposed array vs. a diesel generator.

=Problem Definition= Assist the University of Idaho in the planning of a Solar Panel array to power two wells to ensure reliable water delivery. To perform this the following tasks will be performed: =Background= The university operates multiple wells to support the domestic water needs of campus. Backup power generation is needed for two wells in case a disaster occurs and the power grid goes down. Traditionally, diesel generators would be used, but University is seeking a solar PV alternative that can be tied into the campus microgrid.
 * 1) Investigate the three locations and select one to be designed
 * 2) Design the selected PV array including a solar site assessment, module selection, inverters, support structure, relays, meters, etc.
 * 3) Conduct an economic analysis of the system

=Deliverables=

Specific Site Analysis Data Points
The following Site Analysis Data Points were analyzed:
 * Obvious obstructions to sunlight/energy production
 * Electrical Grid connection points
 * Whether connecting to the microgrid makes sense
 * Physical area available
 * Construction requirements
 * Panel Type and details including a cost analysis
 * Foundational requirements (Panel framing)
 * Physical location angle considerations
 * Physical distance to the wells
 * For sheep farm: Will the panels provide shade for the sheep? Will they impede on grazing area? Will the panels need to be fenced off?
 * Snow Impact

Component Selection Requirements

 * SEL-735 meters for the wells (Marc Compton recommended the 735s)
 * Inverters
 * Protection as discussed with the microgrid team, or with Avista depending on if we connect to microgrid or main grid
 * Energy storage
 * Solar Panels

One-Line Diagram Requirements
Depending on the selected location, it may make sense to create Thevenin Equivalent Circuits, or a full one-line diagram of the system. We will be working closely with our client and the Microgrid Expansion team to ensure that all necessary circuit equivalencies are created.

Schematics and Renders
Schematics and 3-D renders of each project component will be created to visually demonstrate the design concept.

Economic Analysis Requirements
The economic analysis shall be a complete analysis which covers the entire life of the solar array. A cost/benefit analysis shall be conducted to compare the solar array with a typical generator cost for the load size of the wells. All reasonable economic aspects shall be analyzed and used in the comparison.

=Site Assessment=

Physical Location
The sheep farm is very close to the wells themselves, but very far from the campus microgrid. The sheep farm also has the largest available area out of all prospective locations. The location being isolated from the microgrid means that we would need to create a new sub-micro grid which comprises of the wells and sheep farm buildings. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the project. This layer of complexity will be further compounded in the future. Ultimately, the goal will be to connect all campus buildings to the microgrid. Absorbing one microgrid into another is much more complex than simply expanding a single microgrid. The location is also located behind a large hill behind Winco, which will minimize the publicity of the array at this location.

Other Considerations
The panels can provide shade and shelter for the sheep, and the sheep in turn reduce maintenance costs by eating the grass under the panels.

Kibbie Dome
Kibbie Dome stuff

Parking Lot
Parking Lot stuff

Location Summary
Put our comparison chart here. =Schedule= The following are the major Project Milestones: Project Schedule		08 October, 2019 Snapshot Day 1			15 October, 2019 Design Validation Plan		24 October, 2019 Project Value Proposition	31 October, 2019 Draft Wikipage			07 November, 2019 Concept Design Review		22 November, 2019 Snapshot Day 2			06 December, 2019 Semester 1 Final Deliverables	13 December, 2019 Engineering Release Review	21 February, 2020 Snapshot Day 3			10 March, 2020 Design Expo Deliverables	01 May, 2020 Semester 2 Final Deliverables	08 May, 2020

=Specifications= Product Specifications will go here.

=Project Learning=

=Final Design=

=Validation=

=Team Members=

=Additional Documentation=

Project Schedule



Meeting Minutes

Presentations



Client Interview