Project Details:Top

Utility Name:	Arizona Public Service
Utility Type:	IOU
Funding Source(s):	Rate-Based Funding
State:	Arizona | AZ
Region:	West
Utility Program(s):	Centralized Solar System: Photovoltaic,Solar Energy Credits (RECs, etc),Research, Demonstration, Resource Assessment, etc
Technology:	PV,CSP

Project Description:Top

In 1985, Arizona Public Service (APS) constructed the Solar Test and Research (STAR) facility, a research and demonstration site to test various solar power equipment.

The location of STAR is adjacent to a substation in Phoenix, Arizona, which allows for grid interactive testing. Initially the facility tested individual PV panels and components, including the modules, inverters, transformers, and monitoring equipment. Today the focus of the facility is to test complete PV systems- understanding performance, reliability and how to drive down overall costs. High concentration and tracking PV systems are tested as well.

Additionally, APS utilizes the STAR center to test remote and hybrid PV systems prior to field installation. PV equipment manufacturers are able to use the STAR center to test their own materials by acquiring special permission from APS.
In addition to being a testing facility, there is a 480kW PV system at the site that provides electricity to the adjacent substation. APS owns the Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) produced by this system.

This is the primary test site for utility PV in the country, APS partners with other utilities on testing and product development. The information gathered at STAR is shared and is applicable nationwide, thus eliminating the need for peer utilities to implement a similar test site. Interested utilities should contact APS staff to consider developing a testing project.

STAR fulfills two of APS` goals 1) to be seen by customers as a forward thinking utility, monitoring leading-edge technology as well as from a utility perspective to 2) expand their expertise in emerging renewable energy technologies.

Public tours of the STAR facility are given on request, and the facility is in the flight path at Phoenix International airport for landings. Look for it out your window when the plane is descending and within a few hundred feet of the ground.

Project Links:Top

General Project Description: http://tinyurl.com/43yhh6

Virtual Tour: http://www.aps.com/my_community/STARTour/default.html?seq=1

Media Fact Sheet: http://www.aps.com/my_community/STARTour/default.html?seq=1

More Information:Top

Submit a Utility Case Study: