Unlike our microinverter systems, the panels are arranged in ‘strings’ of 21 panels, which creates a 650 volt DC circuit. These circuits are fed 6 at a time into the inverters, which convert the 650V DC into 480V 3 phase AC. These AC circuits are introduced into the Field House wiring system via a transformer, which matches the voltages.

The panels are US Manufactured (ARRA Compliant), the inverters are manufactured in the US, and the mounting system, also made in the US, has an interesting story. Back in 2014, Pickering Associates was asked to work with a group called Ecolibrium Solar, which was engaged with TechGrowth Ohio to assist with business investment and market growth. PA provided an engineering package for the manufacture of their flagship product, what they called the EcoFoot 1. The Parkersburg High School installation uses the next generation of ballasted mounting systems, the EcoFoot 2.

The Parkersburg High School Solar Club - the first of its kind in WV - looks forward to showcasing the school’s accomplishments in renewable energy and is excited about the benefits of the newly installed solar unit. While taking a civics and leadership class through Clemson University in 2013, Conor McCoy chose to develop a service learning project geared towards raising awareness about the benefits of renewable energy, and this initiative led to the formation of the PHS solar club. The club’s early focus was on raising interest and awareness of the benefits of a solar energy system at the school. Today, the club continues to be supported by Pickering Energy and the staff at PHS.