How is the thin film solar collector, connected to the pole? The solar collector is conformably attached to the surface of the pole by means of rivets and a strong heat tolerant adhesive (an ethylene propylene copolymer adhesive-sealant with microbial inhibitor). Because the collector is conformably attached, it does not incur any additional wind loading onto the system. This is a decided advantage compared to flat panels that incur a high wind load (or snow load) and thus may not be suitable for many sites. It is virtually impossible for natural events to dislodge the collector, and is highly resistant to vandalism. The covering for the solar collector is a durable ETFE (e.g. Tefzel®) high light-transmissive polymer. This polymer coating not only provides a durable physical shield for the collector’s solar cells, but also a durable chemical shield, protecting them from water, salt spray, etc. How often do you need to clean the solar film and with what? The manufacturer recommends cleaning the solar film with water and detergents when necessary. Due to the vertical design, water from rain actually cleans the film and in many cases will be all the maintenance that is required. What is the burn in stabilization period for the Inovus Solar™ off-grid solar light pole? The burn in period for the light quality and distribution is 2 hours. How can you determine the status of the batteries? The controller has a meter connection to measure the batteries status. If one battery pack goes out, does the system shut down? No, because the batteries are connected in parallel, the other battery packs will continue to power the system. However, the system’s autonomy will degrade, and the failed battery pack should be replaced. Is there a recycle program for the batteries? This is coming soon. How are you protecting the system from the weather, insects, animals and birds?
The coatings, wiring, weather & intrusion proofing Every aspect of Inovus Solar™ products is scrutinized to identify weakness or possible points of failure. Even though this approach may add a bit more to price in the end, the piece of mind you will get knowing our engineers have built the products to withstand the elements and the test of time is worth the small amount you’ll pay. Fully powder coated for long life Every pole produced by Inovus Solar™ is fully coated against the elements. We use the best materials and processes to ensure rust stays out and life is maximized. Marine grade wiring Marine climates offer some special challenges due to the salinity of the air. Inovus Solar™ chooses to use marine-grade wiring for all applications as it is the most resistant to degradation over time. Conformal coating The on-board computer is protected by a special coating that makes it water tight. This computer can take what nature throws at it – year after year. Hermetically sealed LEDs Behind every good LED is a printed circuit board (PCB) and every PCB is susceptible to water damage. At Inovus Solar™ we hermetically seal every LED module that goes out our door. Insect, animal and bird proofing on all components All forms of interesting creatures can try to inhabit a nice dry space. Inovus Solar™ uses special techniques to ensure air can flow through our designs but other things that are less desirable are blocked. Is there a security solution for the access door? We currently have security screws which require a special tool to open the access door. Can I get LEED credits for the off-grid solar light pole? A project can add 3-4 LEED credits for outdoor lighting. Is the Inovus Solar™ off-grid solar light pole Dark Sky certified? Yes the system is Dark Sky certified. Is the Inovus Solar™ off-grid solar light pole Energy Star certified? The DOE is still defining the requirements for Energy Star certification for LED luminaires. Inovus Solar™ is closely following those developments to ensure that we will qualify when those requirements are formally established. What testing labs have certified the quality and distribution of light? The ITL certifies the Inovus Solar™ IES files. Do you offering financing or have recommended financing partners? Contact your sales support specialist for the latest offerings. Do you have a net metering offering? Not at the present time.
