Matrix Energy Inc announces it has designed and supplied a 12 kWp Off-Grid PV system for integration into an existing diesel generator power system for SÉPAQ on Anticosti Island in the Gulf of St-Lawrence.

Matrix Energy partners in 12 kW hybrid solar project

Montreal QC – July 31, 2013

Matrix Energy Inc announces it has designed and supplied a 12 kWp Off-Grid PV system for integration into an existing diesel generator power system for SÉPAQ on Anticosti Island in the Gulf of St-Lawrence.

Matrix Energy assisted the engineering firm CIB Groupe Conseil in the system design, installation and commissioning and provided technical support to the electrical contractor Fugère Electric Inc, who performed the system installation.

The 55 kW diesel generator had been in operation for several years as the only source of power on the site. However, the high cost of maintenance, repair and operation (MRO), as well as the GHG emissions and noise pollution, motivated the SÉPAQ managers to search for an alternative option.

The complete PV system comprises forty-eight, 250 Wp high performance Eclipsall monocrystalline solar modules, three 600 V MPPT solar charge controllers, a 24 kW of OutBack inverter/ charger, a 125 kWh Surrette Rolls battery bank along with timers, surge protectors and other accessories. The PV array will generate an estimated 12,000 kWh per year of clean solar electricity, and is expected to greatly reduce the diesel generator runtimes. The array will charge the system's batteries when sunlight is available, and the generator will automatically start should the batteries become overly discharged during extended periods of inclement weather or when electrical power that exceeds the inverters capacity is required.

According to Daniel Gagnon, Project Engineer at SÉPAQ," this innovative project will be a model for other sites in Quebec and across Canada". PV / Diesel hybrid power systems in Off-Grid applications are gaining in popularity in remote areas. Such systems provide impressive IRR's resulting from significant MRO cost reductions, while other benefits include reduction of generator noise and GHG emission pollution, improved overall system reliability and redundancy.

Since 1985 Matrix Energy (www.matrixenergy.ca) continues to offer a variety of Value-Added Services for complete Stand Alone (Autonomous) Power Systems to supply DC and/or AC loads for telemetry, solar LED lighting, road and rail traffic signaling, telecommunications, remote homes & cottages and other applications requiring electrical power where conventional utility power is unavailable or cost prohibitive.

Matrix Energy is committed to delivering high quality products form industry leading domestic manufacturers and services to suit client needs while making solid contributions to reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions. All products and systems provided are environmentally friendly and energy efficient.