Cathedral Pond: Headwaters for irrigation and micro-hydro systems.
By integrating many kinds of power, Teal Farm's system takes advantage of different sources when they are available, thus solving the problem of intermittency that single renewable energy sources pose. For example, if the wind isn't blowing and the sun isn't shining–we will use hydro power! In this way our system proves that renewable technologies can be enduring, reliable, and “consistent across seasons”.
Given the complexity and state-of-the art nature of our electricity system, it will be installed in phases. Recently-completed Phase I includes:
| – | 15 KW grid-tied solar photovoltaic array |
| – | 20 KW generator able to run on biodiesel |
| – | 6 inverters that convert DC generated power to conventional 110 volt AC power |
| – | Quantitative monitoring of on-site natural resources (wind, hydro, and solar) |
| – | Quantitative monitoring of electricity generation and demand |
Sunnyboy inverters convert solar DC to AC; Generator room
Phase II (to be installed in 2009-2010) will include:
| – | Small wind turbine (6-15 KW) |
| – | Micro hydro turbine (3 KW) |
| – | Battery bank for back-up power when the grid goes down |
| – | Development of infrastructure to transport water from Cathedral Pond (where water is stored) to “wheel house” where hydro turbine will be housed |
| – | Development of fiber optic infrastructure for real time data collection of on-site natural resources |
Cathedral Pond
When Phase II is complete, we will have created a place-based power system from multiple renewable sources, one that meets all of Teal Farm's needs, and exports electricity much of the year.
Teal Farm watershed showing wind tower and Cathedral Pond
Implications
Our system suggests a new model of regional energy production where multiple, interconnected “islands” of generation employ overlapping clean renewable technologies to: a) meet regional demand; b) export to the greater connected system when warranted; and c) draw from the greater system when needed.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation
Energy efficiency and conservation are critical to creating a perpetual energy future based on renewables. In keeping with this tenet, Teal Farm buildings and residences are designed to never waste electricity. By using day-lighting, compact fluorescent and LED bulbs, and efficient appliances and motors throughout, we have matched our electricity demands to our on-site power production and will meet, with the completion of our system, all our electricity needs with excess at predictable times of the year.
Similarly, the super-insulated walls (R-40) and ceilings (R-60) in the farmhouse and Energy Barn are an essential component of the heating system. Thick adobe and concrete floors radiate heat and naturally drive convection (the natural circulation of heat) from their thermal mass. Heat recovery units throughout the farmhouse transfer the heat from outgoing to incoming air, keeping the air quality high inside its well-insulated envelope. Finally, a sophisticated control system directs heat only to occupied rooms to further conserve energy.
Local adobe and raidiant heating tubes under all wood-covered floors, super-insulated walls using closed-cell polyurethane.
