DEVELOPMENT
At GAC our competitive advantage is a result of our specialized experience with renewable energy procurement, feed-in tariff programs, and contract management. Our experience includes working with some of the most renowned professional engineering firms worldwide with extensive experience implementing projects in collaboration with governments and utilities.FINANCING
GAC access to world-class international financing strategies and investment ensure the foundation for project success and capital growth. At GAC, our proven track record for project finance capability is what makes us a leader in the industry. We draw on our expertise, accumulated through investment partnerships, to create the financial backing for each of our new solar energy projects.CONSTRUCTION
GAC has a strong global network of industry leading engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) providers, as well as operations and maintenance (O&M) suppliers. GAC selects the most experienced and qualified sub-contractors in the world out of our networks of highly qualified professionals. We work with a variety of subcontractors across the globe with a commitment to hiring local experts whenever possible. Our team of experts prioritize the sourcing of materials and labour locally for fast project turn-around, seamless collaboration.TECHNOLOGY
At GAC, we customize our technologies to suit the requirements of each project. Our vast network of technology partners makes it possible for the vision of any solar project to become a reality. EPC and O&M providers are uniquely chosen for each project based on the direct benefit provided through their local expertise and familiarity with the region and technology in use. The ever-declining cost in solar technology worldwide allows for a perpetually wider range of technological access to aid in bringing solar to any community worldwide.
How Solar Energy Works
Types of Solar Energy
The sun's energy is one of the most valuable sources of power available. Harnessing that energy in a practical way has been an intriguing challenge for scientists for centuries. In the past 50 years, great strides have been made that enable solar energy to be a reality for many consumers today. To understand the solar potential in our Georgia communities and decide whether it's an option for your household, let's explore the different types of solar energy.Solar Electric Power
Electricity can be converted directly from solar energy through solar cells known as photovoltaic cells—"photo" (for light) and "voltaic" (for energy). Individual cells are the building blocks for PV modules, which combine to form what's commonly referred to as a PV array. Normally mounted on a rooftop or in a location for maximum sun exposure, the PV array components convert that energy into electric current to power appliances and other household devices.Once installed, a PV system requires little maintenance and can produce power for more than 20 years.
Basic information about how solar electricity works can be found at HowStuffWorks.com.
Check out information on solar electric power on the US Department of Energy Energy Savers site.
Solar Thermal Energy
Heating water using electricity typically may make up 14–25% of the average home's utility bill. A residential solar water heating system can be designed to meet between 50 and 80% of a home's water heating requirements.If you've ever seen tea brewed outside on a hot summer day, you've witnessed the principle behind solar thermal technology. The sun’s energy radiates to the earth and is captured in a jar of water. The water is warmed by this captured energy, and brews the tea.
In the same manner, solar thermal energy can be used to heat water for household use.
A solar water heating system requires collectors to absorb the sun's energy and a storage system to hold the energy until it is needed—like the water jar. The solar energy collectors are large, flat panels that are most frequently mounted on the roof of a home or building. The systems used to store thermal energy are similar to conventional water heaters. The heated water is circulated through the home or building using pumps.
Basic information about how solar thermal energy works can be found at HowStuffWorks.com.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environme
Check out information on solar thermal energy on the US Department of Energy Energy Savers site. http://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-saver
Solar Facts:
Solar Energy Usage
• Solar energy is measured by the kilowatt-hour. One kilowatt = 1,000 watts.
• One kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy will burn a 100-watt light bulb for 10 hours.
Did You Know?
The typical components of a solar home system include the solar module, an inverter, a battery, a charge controller (sometimes known as a regulator), wiring, and support structure.GAC Financing Program Offers Several Benefits:
Turnkey financial services
We realize that staff time and budgets are at a premium for public and private entities. The GAC Network can construct your financing needs and able fund 70% - 100% of your turn-key projectFinancial analysis
Each Agency’s needs and projects are unique. We can help you identify what financing products are available to fund your projects and analyze the best solution that fits your needs.Finance and incentive application assistance
Once you have decided to finance your project, The GAC can assist you completing the financing and incentive applications for your project.Access to a Financial Advisor
Occasionally, Agencies may find it necessary to consult with a financial advisor on specific financing opportunities. GAC provides qualified agencies with access to Public Finance Management (PFM) for consulting services.Trusted third-party objective resources
Our mission is to help public agencies complete energy saving projects and we are committed to finding the solution that makes the most sense for your agency. We have also developed tools and an extensive array of resources for your use.or public financing.