ClarkeFest Goes Solar! The 2011 Bash Was Sept. 24.

Solar Farm Powers Clarke Household in Central New Jersey

Allentown, N.J., June 27, 2011 – It’s been a little more than a year since the Clarke family decided that a solar farm in their back yard was a good idea. Now that idea is a reality after their 10.58 kilowatt DC solar array was placed in service on June 22.

“I suppose it’s third time lucky,” said homeowner Ian Clarke. “We applied to the state three times, with three different contractors, but once we got the approval, construction was quick and smooth. We’re excited to be generating our own power at last. It's just a shame that solar contractors don't seem to be the most reliable or competent when it comes to paperwork or following up on requests.”

The ground-mounted array of 46 230-watt photovoltaic solar panels will produce about 13,500 kWh AC of electricity annually; any power not consumed in-house is delivered into the distribution grid. It’s big, measuring 80 feet in length, by about 12 feet high and 10 feet deep, but in the acre yard its footprint is comparatively small.

“At least it’s producing something of value; all that lawn just seems to cost me money,” said Clarke. The solar installation will power not only the house, but also a 100% electric Nissan Leaf that the family will be purchasing by next Spring.

“Most of my trips are within 10 miles: to the school, the library, playing fields and the like,” said Jamie Clarke. “It makes sense when the fuel is essentially free and emissions-free.” The Leaf is estimated to get about 70-75 miles on a 21 kWh charge, which takes 6-8 eight hours on a 240V home charging circuit.

Return to Top.

Go back Home.

Animated spinning top courtesy of Webpromotion - 3D Web Animation.