2015 - Volume #BFS, Issue #15, Page #05
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Easy-To-Install Solar “Pods”
The “Solar Pod” system is designed to make the use of solar power easy. Completely self-contained multiple pods can be set up in series to produce as much energy as desired. Just plug them into each other. Designer and manufacturer Mouli Vaidyanathan says the units cost 30 to 70 percent less than comparable output panels.
  “Standard solar arrays cost more because they are individually designed and installed,” he says. “Our system comes complete with panels, inverters, a wiring harness and a custom mounting rack. It also performs 15 to 20 percent better than other systems.”
  The 4-panel Solar Pod systems require a 14 by 6-ft. ground space. They also can be mounted to a roof with a new mounting system for gabled roofs that hangs over the roof peak. “Our new design will reduce roof penetrations by 80 to 90 percent and, in some cases, eliminate them completely.”
  Solar Pod systems are available for direct connection to the electrical grid or for off-grid installation. Although units are relatively simple to assemble, Vaidyanathan says an electrician may be required to connect the socket and wiring to the home’s circuit box. If a 240/20A outlet is available, installation is even easier. The local power company needs to provide a 2-way meter if excess power is to be sold back to the company.
  Solar Pods for grid connection are priced at about $3,300 each. Off grid, stand-alone systems with batteries are priced at $5,000. Each 4-panel unit can generate from 1,200 kWh to 2,000 kWh a year depending on available sun.
  “A Solar Pod in Minnesota can produce around 1,300 kWh a year, while one in Arizona will produce around 2,000 kWh,” he says. “Depending on the cost of local electricity, you can save $200 to $300 each year for a payback of 8 to 10 years.”
  Vaidyanathan points out that solar tax credits reduce the cost by 30 percent. Farms and other businesses can claim additional credits that reduce payback even more.
  Vaidyanathan suggests visiting his website or calling him to discuss installation needs. He offers a 25-year warranty and suggests maintenance is very limited.
  “I’ve had mine installed for 4 years, and the only maintenance has been looking at it,” says Vaidyanathan.
  Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Mouli Engineering, Inc., 655 Lexie Court, Eagan, Minn. 55123 (ph 612 424-5176; mouli@mouliengg.com; www.mysolarpod.com).


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2015 - Volume #BFS, Issue #15