What is MESA/SunSpec?
Traditionally, grid energy storage systems (ESS) have been one-off solutions, utilizing proprietary software and hardware components. As such, each installation requires time consuming, custom integration. Often times proprietary vendor hardware or software protocols require “hacks” to get all components to play nice. Ultimately this approach results in higher costs, decreased reliability, and limited scalability and […]
Knowing Your Grid Forming Inverter
In remote locations where the traditional utility power grid is inaccessible, standalone microgrids, powered by renewable energies like solar and wind turbines, are playing a crucial role in generating electricity for the local community. In addition to generating power to meet the electricity needs of islands and remote communities across the world, microgrids also see […]
Alternative Energy Distribution Methods
The term alternative energy generally describes renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric energy accounts for the majority of U.S. renewable energy, at 70 percent, though the use of solar, wind and other renewable energy is continuing to grow. Methods of alternative energy distribution vary, and here I’ll provide a brief description […]
Active Front-end or Grid-tie Inverter?
We have the habit here at Oztek of using the term “active front-end” (AFE) and grid-tie inverter (GTI) interchangeably. On more than one occasion discussing our grid-tie inverter controller, I’ve caught myself somewhere mid-conversation inadvertently switching to using the term active front-end. It’s of no concern internally, but quite frequently it’s cause for confusion when speaking […]
Renewable Energy Tax Incentives Extended
President Obama signed the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 on Friday, December 17th, 2010. This will extend the Section 1603 Treasury Grant Program. The Grant Program was created as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The program can cover up to 30% of the cost […]
Hurling Pumpkins at the World Championship Punkin Chunkin
Oztek recently sponsored the Launch-Ness Monster at the World Championship Punkin Chunkin in Bridgeville, Delaware. Launch-Ness is captained by Jay Goodell, a Design Engineer at Oztek. I myself helped build the Monster. Punkin Chunkin is a compeition where the goal is to throw a pumpkin further than everyone else. Launch-Ness monster competed in the trebuchet division, […]
