Ensure Compliance with BEPP and Avoid Penalties

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The Building Energy Performance Program, created through Building Energy Performance Policy aims to achieve efficient energy and water use in the largest non-residential buildings in Philadelphia.

Like cars, buildings need occasional tune-ups to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. A building tune-up requires a review of energy systems and controls and minor tweaks to bring them up to a good state of performance. On average, these tweaks result in 10–15% annual energy savings for a building. They also provide a more comfortable space for tenants. This policy is projected cut carbon pollution in Philadelphia by nearly 200,000 metric tons. This reduction is equivalent to taking 40,000 automobiles off our roads. 

Who is impacted?
Owners of any commercial, non-residential building with indoor floor space of at least 50,000 square feet of indoor floor space must comply with the policy.

Who is not included?
- Residence halls, dormitories, and other non-transient large lodging places
- Parking lots and parking garages, or the portions of otherwise covered buildings used for parking

How do I comply?
Buildings must comply every 5 years from their compliance date.
Buildings have three options for compliance.
- Conduct a “tune-up” of existing building systems
- Certify high performance
- Receive an exemption

Example of what you will receive from the City of Philadelphia L&I for non-compliance

Qualified tune-up specialists:
If conducting tune-ups, building owners must hire approved tune-up specialists to lead their building system assessments and sign off on tune-up reports. In-house or contracted service providers may complete the corrective actions, however, the final tune-up report must be verified and signed by the qualified tune-up specialist.

Spotts, Stevens and McCoy has five certified tune-up specialists on our staff, ready and able to assist in compliance with this regulation.

What is a building tune-up?
The Building Tune-Up is an assessment of existing base building systems and corrective actions to bring the systems up to a state of good repair. The assessment includes all systems of the building that use energy or impact energy consumption.

- HVAC Operations and Controls
- Lighting System Assessment
- Building System Maintenance and Repairs
- Domestic Hot Water and Water Usage
- Building Envelope

The tune-up includes:
- Billing analysis.
- Assessment of Elements: HVAC Operations and Controls, Lighting System Assessment, Building System Maintenance and Repairs, Domestic Hot Water and Water Usage, and Building Envelope
- Determination and Implementation of Corrective Actions
- Post implementation assessment
- Final Tune-up Report

Here to Help:

Marika Selzler Williams, EIT, ENV SP, CEM | Manager, Energy and Sustainability Services
Energy and Sustainability Services | marika.selzler@ssmgroup.com

Reducing the use of Fossil Fuels

Since its inception in 2008, Zero Emissions Day has grown into a global movement encouraging individuals to minimize fossil fuel usage. This day aims to raise awareness about the impact of carbon emissions on climate change and air quality.

Ways to Observe Zero Emissions Day:

• Walk, Bike, or Carpool: These alternatives help reduce emissions.

• Conserve Energy: Turn off lights and computers when not in use.

• Utilize Fresh Air: Use windows and economizers to cool buildings at night, decreasing reliance on air conditioning during the day.

On a larger scale, the day encourages organizations and corporations to reduce the use of fossil fuels in daily life and to promote the use of renewable energy.

In June, the Department of Energy released a definition of zero emissions buildings to advance public and private sector efforts to decarbonize the buildings sector. The definition provides industry guidance to support new and existing commercial and residential buildings to move towards zero emissions across the entire sector and help achieve climate goals, while cutting home and business energy costs. This initiative is expected to help advance next-generation clean energy solutions, drive innovation and tackle the climate crisis, while supporting workforce development.

According to DOE, with nearly 130 million buildings in the U.S. costing over $400 billion annually in energy, and an expected 40 million new homes plus 60 billion square feet of commercial space by 2050, the push for zero emissions is crucial.

To achieve zero operational emissions a building must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Energy Efficient: The building uses the most efficient technologies and is built to reduce losses.

• No On-Site Emissions: The building’s direct greenhouse gas emissions from energy use equal zero.

• Powered by Clean Energy: All the energy used by the building, produced both on-site and off-site, is from clean energy sources.

Check out these resources for more information:

• U.S. Department of Energy
  National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building - Web
  National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building - PDF

If you’re curious about solar potential for your business’s roof or parking lot, contact us for assistance! Our team offers comprehensive support, from feasibility studies to design and construction, ensuring a smooth transition to solar power.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Marika Selzler,  EIT, ENV SP, CEM | Manager, Energy and Sustainability Services
marika.selzer@ssmgroup.com

Did you know that with 5,000 square feet of open roof or parking area, the average 3-floor commercial building can produce 67% of its electricity consumption with on-site, emission-free solar energy. This can save over $1,000 every month on energy costs!

LSA Grant Open for Public Entities with Public Interest Projects

Local Share Account (LSA) – Statewide

Overview: The PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to support projects in the public interest within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Eligible Applicants:

• PA Counties

• Municipalities

• Municipal Authorities

• Economic Development Agencies

• Redevelopment Authorities

• Land Banks

• Councils of Government

Eligible Projects: Projects in the public interest. Projects that improve the quality of life of citizens in the community. Eligible projects must be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization.

Eligible Uses of Funds:

• Acquisition

• Construction to include renovation and rehabilitation

• Demolition

• Infrastructure

• Purchase of vehicles, machinery and/or equipment

• Planning, consulting and design costs related to planning projects

• Engineering, design and inspection, to include permitting fees

• Contingency costs not to exceed 5% of documented construction and infrastructure costs

Funding Details:

• Grants are available for projects with a total eligible project cost of $25,000 or more

• Grant requests shall not exceed $1,000,000 for any project

Applications and Scope:

• To apply for funding, submission must be made via the online Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) Single Application for Assistance located at dced.pa.gov/singleapp

• Applications will be received from September 1, 2024 to November 30, 2024. The CFA charges a $100 non-refundable application fee for the Local Share Account applications.

• Each application must include a cohesive project scope based on a singular project. This may include multiple phases of the same project. Applicants may submit multiple applications.

Grant Submission Assistance: The SSM team has acquired nearly $3,000,000 in the last few years in project funding from this exact loan distribution. We’re well-versed in assisting our clients with acquiring grant funds for their projects. Our grant services include preparation and submission on behalf of the entity. We also assist with cost estimates and scope of work definition and description.

For assistance with grant support, contact us:

Jamie Lorah | Technical Director, Process and Design Engineering |jamie.lorah@ssmgroup.com

New PADEP NPDES General Permit Requirements

If you currently have coverage under PAG-02 General Permit, your permit coverage for discharge of stormwater associated with construction activities will expire on December 7, 2024.

On August 31, 2024, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) will publish a final, reissued NPDES PAG-02 General Permit for Discharge of Stormwater Associated with Construction Activities for a new 5-year term.

As a result, existing permits will need to be either renewed or terminated by that date to remain in compliance. If the construction of the project is complete and disturbed areas are stabilized the permit can be closed out through Notice of Termination. The NOT must be approved by the December 7th deadline. Otherwise, the General Permit will need to be renewed.

PAG-02 General Permit Changes will have significant impact including:

• Construction Dewatering Standards

• Site Inspections

• Co-Permittees

• Instrument Recording

• SCM Construction Certification Form

• Confirmation Testing for Infiltration SCMs

• New Property Owner Notification Form

We can help. Whether you need assistance for renewal of your existing NPDES General Permit or submission of a Notice of Termination, our design and engineering teams are available to provide guidance and assist with submission requirements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Scott Miller, RLA | Manager, Land Development Services | scott.miller@ssmgroup.com

Understanding the Land Development Process

When is a Land Development Plan Required?

Whether you’re adding a new building, expanding an existing footprint, changing the use of the facility or increasing the amount of impervious surface on your site, you may need a Land Development plan. Regardless of size, projects with some level of earth disturbance may require a site plan with a minimum set of requirements to move forward.

Land development is a term that encompasses the design and approval process necessary for a site development project. Its scope includes the design and engineering of the site features along with coordinating the necessary state, local and federal permits and approvals.

The land development process timeline can range from a few months up to a year, depending on the scope of the project and approval agencies involved. Typically, a Land Development project includes coordination between a minimum of six different agencies, including the local municipality. Engaging a land development team early and involving them in all stages of the project is crucial for a comprehensive overall process. They can assist in many phases of the project, including zoning relief, site grading, any earth-moving activities or utility coordination. Early involvement ensures that all necessary plans and permits are identified and obtained in a timely manner.

Key Plans and Permits

The project starts with a sketch plan or concept plan. Depending on the project scope, your site plan might require:

• Layout Plan

• Landscape Plan

• Erosion & Sedimentation Control Plan (E&SC Plan)

• Stormwater Management Plan - Post Construction Stormwater Management Plan (PCSM)

• Grading Plan

• Utility Plan

Other elements that may be required include zoning relief, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permits (NPDES), other state and federal agency approvals and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or Department of Transportation (DOT) Permits.

Factors Influencing Plan Requirements

1. Municipal Regulations - Each municipality has its own design standards for approval procedures and submission requirements, often outlined in their ordinances. Most regulations are available online, but it's always smart to contact the municipality directly to confirm the current information.

2. Project Scope - The nature and extent of the work will drive the necessary approval procedures and requirements. Projects that might impact state roads and environmentally sensitive areas may require additional permits from state or federal agencies.

3. Size of the Project - E&SC Plan requirements vary based on the disturbance limits. In Pennsylvania counties, projects disturbing up to 0.95 acres generally only need an E&SC plan with Conservation District approvals, except in Berks County, where the limit is 5,000 square feet. Projects exceeding the one-acre threshold requires a PA DEP NPDES permit.

4. Location of the Project - The location determines drainage areas and adjacent watercourses, wetlands or endangered species habitat with the DEP classifying watercourses differently based on their characteristics. These location elements should be field surveyed to capture accurate locations.

Land Development Sequence and Timeline

The approval process typically spans three months to a year, operating on a monthly cycle of submissions, meetings and resubmissions. Accurate site and building plans are essential, and providing detailed information early in the process can expedite approvals.

Earth Disturbance Considerations

Any earth disturbance activity as part of the project requires careful planning and documentation. E&SC plans must clearly designate the full limit of disturbance on drawings to ensure compliance and approval.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Be prepared for variations in the approval timeline. While the usual timeframe for approval is four to six months, projects requiring federal permits can take up to a year. Costs also vary significantly, based on the project scope, location, permits and municipal requirements.

SSM provides comprehensive services to support land development projects, including:

• Land and Feasibility Site Planning

• Landscape Architecture Design Services

• Field Survey

• Stormwater Engineering and Grading

• Erosion & Sediment Control and Permit Preparation

• Highway Occupancy Permits

Navigating the land development process requires careful planning, timely engagement with a Land Development team and an understanding of the various regulatory requirements. Each project is unique and being prepared for potential challenges can make the process more efficient and successful. A discussion with the SSM Land Development Team will provide better insight into the necessary steps, requirements and approvals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Scott Miller, RLA | Manager, Land Development Services | scott.miller@ssmgroup.com

Celebrating Water Quality

August is National Water Quality Month and there is a lot to know when it comes to your water.

National Water Quality Month was founded in 2005 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and backed by the UN to provide people with clean, safe drinking water. However, before there was a National Water Quality Month, there was the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. The Clean Water Act (CWA) was a step toward making it illegal to dump high amounts of toxic material into waterways. The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was made to protect the quality of groundwater and public water systems.

While these acts are fundamental to the protection of our water, there’s more that goes into keeping our water safe. Pollutants can get in our water easily, some of which include untreated waste, industrial effluent materials, pesticides, fertilizers and chemicals used at home. Fertilizers are particularly dangerous because when they runoff into waterways, the nutrients create excess algae which depletes the oxygen supply in water. This process is called eutrophication and it suffocates the aquatic life, creating dead zones.

Even in National Parks, where conservation of nature is of utmost importance, the waterways are still negatively impacted. The National Park Conservation Association reports that, by CWA standards, 52% of streams located on National Park grounds are considered “impaired.”

Unsafe water is not just a risk to aquatic life. In the most recent State of the Water Industry (STOIW) report, 60% of people said they are concerned with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) being in their drinking water while 53% were concerned with pathogens. The report also showed that the public’s opinion of the current water state declined since the previous year.

With only 1% of the earth’s water easily accessible, it’s imperative to protect our water sources. Fortunately, the SDWA provides guidance to the public on water standards, collects data on drinking water, and oversees state drinking water programs to help keep our water clean and safe. States and EPA also require water systems to test for contaminants, review plans for improvements, conduct on-site inspections and sanitary surveys, provide training and take action against water systems not meeting standards.

If the water system is not up to standards, its customers will be notified shortly after it’s discovered. Some customers may even get annual reports on their water’s quality. Water systems nationwide rely on the public to help set priorities, make decisions and establish programs to protect water sources. Everyone can have an impact on their water.

In Berks County, water quality is a priority. According to the latest State of the Environment Report by Berks Nature, impaired streams are showing improvement and drinking water remains well-protected. Of the 70 community water systems in the county, 46 have Source Water Assessment and Protection Programs in place. However, stream life is only moderately healthy, with a fair number of macroinvertebrates found in most streams.

The biggest area of concern, both in Berks County and across the country, are watersheds. Respondents to the SOTIW report identified watersheds as their top concern, a priority that has persisted for many years. Watersheds need renewal and restoration to ensure safety.

Impervious surfaces lack trees and vegetation to soak up rainfall, so it runs straight into waterways. This can cause accelerated pollution and erosion. To keep a stream healthy and safe, its watershed’s impervious surfaces should not exceed 10%. Eight active rivers across Berks have watersheds with over 10% impervious surfaces, five of which are located near the City of Reading.

Obviously, it’s important to protect our drinking water, but what can you do? Besides staying informed about your water quality, there are plenty of things to do. Some simple ways you can help are:

• Turn off the water when you’re not using it

• Use a rain barrel to collect rain

• Pick up after your pet

• Don’t use fertilizer with phosphorus

• Avoid putting cleaning products down the drain

• Adopt a watershed

• Get your well checked periodically

• Plant trees native to your area

• Organize a stream clean up

• Start a monthly beach cleaning club

National Water Quality Month is dedicated to making the most of what little freshwater we have available. We must protect and repair our waterways because healthy water is essential for our health, agriculture and environment.

At SSM we are dedicated to protecting, developing, and managing water resources for future generations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Carolyn Rodino, PMP | Manager, Water Resources

Reducing Plastic Waste: Joining the Movement with Plastic Free July

Humans create 400 million tons of plastic waste every year. It has been found in nearly everywhere on Earth.

There’s no denying that plastic plays a major role in our everyday lives. But surprisingly, it has only been around for a little more than a century as the first fully synthetic plastic was created in 1907 by Leo Baekeland. While it may be a convenient resource, it has serious consequences for the environment, animals and even humans.

Plastic Free July was founded in 2011 by Rebecca Prince-Ruiz to help reduce the amount of plastic waste we consume. The month is dedicated to encouraging people to discover alternatives to single-use plastics and to reexamine the major role plastic takes in their everyday lives.

It is so necessary for us to reduce our plastic waste because it accounts for 35% of waste. About 86% of plastic waste ends up in landfills, even if it’s deemed recyclable. Aquatic ecosystems are the most at-risk with over 1 million marine animal casualties each year due to plastic. Single-use plastic water bottles, straws and bags are among the most common waste found in the ocean.

Microplastics, which can be found in clothing fibers, plastic packaging and cosmetic exfoliating agents, are small pieces of plastic invisible to the naked eye that can get into the lungs, bloodstream and even cells. Scientists fear that microplastics are possible links to cancer, heart disease and chronic illnesses.

Even smaller than microplastics are nanoplastics, formed when the suns UV Rays break down microplastics. Nanoplastics are so miniscule that they are can be found in things we eat, drink and even the air we breathe, making them dangerous to human health.

With all the risks associated with plastics, it’s becoming more crucial to steer clear of them. While the task may seem daunting, the hard work is paying off. In 2021, only 10 years after Plastic Free July was founded, participants reduced 2.1 million tons of plastic waste.

Going completely plastic free can be intimidating for some, but by making a few small changes in your daily life, you can make a significant impact.

Some small changes you could make are as follows:

• Use a reusable water bottle: plastic water bottles are among the most common plastic waste.

• Switch to reusable bags: instead of using multiple plastic bags from the grocery store every time you go shopping, bring reusable bags from home.

• Buy in bulk: Instead of buying items individually wrapped in plastic, buy in bulk to cut down on wasteful packaging.

• Buy soap bars: instead of buying plastic bottles of soap, buy a soap bar to reduce plastic packaging.

• Make a to-go bag: some people take a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, silverware and reusable container with them when they go out to reduce single use items from places such as fast food establishments and restaurants.

While you may not be able to change all of these habits, even changing one can make a difference. Take the challenge and join in on Plastic Free July!

PA Department of Environmental Protection Launches Energy Efficiency Grant and Loan Program

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The PA Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) recently launched a new program to help local governments develop and implement energy efficiency upgrades for their buildings. The Municipal Opportunities for Retrofits and Energy Efficiency (MORE) program offers grants to $50,000 each and loans to PA municipalities and municipal authorities that are ineligible for direct EECBG allocations. Applications are open now, and awards are first come, first served.

Approximately $1.8 million in grant funds will be offered through October 25, 2024, $1 million of which is on reserve through August 30 for “priority” communities based on need.

The intent of the MORE program is to help local PA governments pay for energy efficiency upgrades, building retrofits, and onsite renewable energy generation (when paired with energy efficiency), while lowering utility bills and fighting climate change pollution. Grant funds may be used to conduct an ASHRAE Level 2 Energy Audit, design Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs), develop the MORE loan application, and buy down the loan interest rate to as low as 0% with any remaining funds. ASHRAE Level 2 Energy Audits performed within the last 5 years can be used.

The MORE loan application period opened June 3, 2024, and will remain open as long as funds are available. The minimum loan available is $5,000, and the program offers repayment terms up to 15 years. The loan application requires submission of the Level 2 audit and ECM design.

MORE program participants are strongly encouraged to apply for the grant first, as it is intended to reduce the hurdles of securing financing for energy efficiency projects.

Who is eligible for MORE? Eligible applicants for the MORE Program are PA local governments that are ineligible for an Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). A full list of local governments allocated EECBG awards that are not eligible for a MORE grant can be found here.

Eligible local government entities include:

• Counties

• Cities

• Boroughs

• Towns

• Townships

• Municipal Authorities

Program Timeline - The MORE Grant application will only be open from June 3, 2024 to October 25, 2024, but the MORE loan will continue accepting applications as long as funds are available. As a revolving loan fund, the MORE Loan does not have a closing date.

•  June 3, 2024: MORE grant and MORE loan opened 

•  August 30, 2024: Priority applicant window for the MORE grant closes

•  October 25, 2024: MORE grant application closes

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Energy & Sustainability Services
Paul Spiegel, P.E., LEED AP | paul.spiegel@ssmgroup.com

Embracing Plastic Free July and Protecting Our Environment

With the irreparable damage that pollution and climate change are doing to our environment, it’s become increasingly important to implement practices that benefit the environment the most.

Plastic Free July, a key initiative of the Plastic Free Foundation, is a perfect catalyst to make people aware of their everyday actions that negatively impact the environment. Since the start of the Plastic Free July Campaign in 2011, millions of people have changed their plastic usage habits, resulting in over 200 million behavior changes with about 90% of those changes becoming permanent habits.

Though the Plastic Free Foundation is based in Australia, its impact is felt all over the world, all thanks to this campaign.

Becoming plastic free or lessening your consumption of plastic can positively impact the environment greatly. Plastic Free July gives participants the tools they need to change their habits and the resources to stop and think about how individuals can make an impact for the better and reduce their reliance on plastic.

Plastic Free July is not just about reducing your plastic consumption, it’s meant to make you think about how much healthier our world and ecosystems would be without plastic pollution.

Here are some facts about plastic pollution and its effects on our world:

1. 10 million tons of plastic are dumped in our oceans annually. This equates to more than one garbage truck load every minute.

2. Less than 9% of all plastic gets recycled.

3. One million marine animals are killed by plastic pollution each year.

4. 100% of mussels tested have contained microplastics.

5. Humans eat over 40 pounds of plastic in their lifetimes.

6. There will be more plastic in our oceans than fish by 2050.

7. The biggest collection of plastic in the ocean is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which spans an area twice the size of Texas. It contains nearly 2 trillion pieces of plastic.

8. 50% of the plastic produced (380 million tons per year) is single use, meaning it’s used for just minutes and then immediately thrown away.

Isn’t it strange that we use it for such a short period of time, yet it lasts for hundreds of years?

Even when plastic does break down, it never disappears completely. As it decomposes, it breaks down into tiny fragments known as microplastics. Because these pieces are so small, they infect everything, including our waterways.

Water affects everyone’s life in a plethora of ways and as climate change, pollution and plastic production increase, it’s vital to protect our water sources.

Especially as summer progresses, we depend on natural water sources such as oceans, lakes, rivers and streams for recreational purposes. It’s vital to protect these waterways. Someday in the not-so-distant future, it’s very possible that these once beautiful locations could be clogged with garbage and infected by pollutants. It’s important to leave no trace—so be sure to clean up any waste you see or any waste you produce.

Lewis McCoy Sr., PE started his individual engineering practice on the idea that everyone deserves clean water. Since then, the firm has continued to lead the charge in making the world a better place today and for future generations by helping clients plan, design, build, operate and protect their infrastructure, assets and resources. From ensuring everyone has clean water, to preparing for a future with clean energy.

SSM engineers solutions for a better world. Our work touches everyday life; from the water you drink, to the air you breathe, to the buildings and communities where you live, work and play.

Learn more about getting involved with Plastic Free July at www.plasticfreejuly.org.

The Impact and Benefits of Solar Power

In honor of the first day of summer, it’s a great opportunity to discuss the impact and benefits of solar power.

Benefits of Solar Energy

1. Financial Savings: Property owners can claim at least 30% of the cost of their solar system on their federal income taxes—including non-taxable entities. This benefit is thanks to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), and can make solar installations significantly more affordable. Pennsylvania utilities such as PECO offer additional rebates.

1. Environmental Benefits: Using more solar power is good for the planet! It reduces air pollution, reduces our carbon footprint, generates renewable energy and offers energy independence, thanks to the abundant free energy from the sun. As solar power replaces fossil fuels released from conventional grid electricity generation, our impact on climate change lessens.

2. Benefits Grid Capacities: Utility companies encourage home and business owners to take advantage of the sun’s power. Solar installations typically generate additional electricity into the grid during high demand periods. This allows utility companies to reduce reliance on gas and coal generation. In addition, home and business owners can sell their extra generated energy to utility companies in exchange for credits on utility bills.

3. Increases Property Value: Buildings with solar arrays have a higher market value than similar properties without. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a home’s value can increase by $20 for every $1 saved on annual utility bills.

4. Minimal Maintenance: Since solar installations typically don’t have complex electronics or moving parts, maintenance is extremely minimal. It’s recommended that solar installations receive a check up every three to five years to make sure everything is still working smoothly, but panels are cleaned from the rain in this region.

SSM’s Energy Services

SSM's Energy Services support clients through the entire process, from feasibility studies and financial assessments to full design, permitting and construction, ensuring a seamless transition to solar power.

1. Feasibility: SSM evaluates variables to ensure that solar energy is the right move: how clients use energy, the size of systems needed to match the amount of energy they use and the placement of a solar array suited to the site’s unique rooftop, parking lot or ground area.

2. Financial: SSM also assists with the financial affordability of solar installations including evaluating the projected return on investment including available financial incentives through federal, state or utility organizations in the form of grants, rebates and tax credits.

3. Design: SSM takes care of the full design process for solar installations. This process includes full electrical and structural design of the arrays and specifications as needed for contractor bidding.

4. Permitting: SSM prepares documentation for and submits local permits as well as utility interconnection, coordinating with the local utility’s protection requirements.

5. Construction: SSM can oversee the construction process and complete periodic inspections of construction to make sure it’s being installed to our specifications.

Things to Keep in Mind

There are many structural and safety variables that must be considered before installing a solar system on an existing or designed roof. By considering these perspectives before and during the design stages of solar installations, owners can ensure that integrating these systems is safe, reliable, and compatible with the existing building structure and infrastructure.

1. Conservation and Electrification: It’s important to reduce the energy consumption of the facility through conservation and efficient equipment to make sure you don’t install an array that’s bigger than you need. In addition, consider switching gas-using equipment to electric so solar power can positively impact all energy usage.

2. Roof Load Capacity: It’s essential to evaluate if the structure can support the solar energy system. The roof should be inspected for structural soundness before solar panels are installed. Factors to be considered include the roof’s age, condition, material and design. Reinforcements might be necessary to enhance the structural stability of the roof to support the system.

3. Roof Orientation and Tilt: The orientation and tilt of a roof impact the efficiency of solar panels. For peak performance, solar panels should be installed on a roof with clear sunlight exposure throughout the day and a primarily southern-facing or flat roof.

4. Roof Condition and Maintenance: A roof-mounted system should only be installed atop a new roof surface, as the life expectancy of the solar array is about that of a typical roof surface. Any damage should be repaired to prevent issues during or after installation the process.

5. Electrical and Fire Safety: Proper electrical and fire safety measures must be implemented to minimize the risk of electrical and fire hazards, and are standard in our design process. This includes ensuring electrical components are installed to code, implementing surge protection and providing access pathways for emergency responders.

Battery Energy Storage

Battery storage allows extra electricity generated by solar panels to be captured and stored for when there is high energy demand or sunlight is not present. Here’s how battery storage works:

1. Generation: Solar panels harness sunlight and convert it into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. When the sun is shining during daylight hours, solar panels generate power that can be used to operate electronic devices or stored for future usage.

2. Charge: Excess electricity produced by the solar panels is routed to a battery storage system for retention rather than being immediately used or sent back to the grid. The battery storage system preserves this electricity for times when demand surpasses solar production.

3. Discharge: When the demand for electricity exceeds solar generation, power is pulled from the battery storage system to operate the facility. Battery storage systems offer immediate electricity, which stabilizes the grid and fulfills demands without dependence on fossil fuel-powered facilities.

4. Energy Management: Battery storage systems often join forces with “smart” energy management setups to enhance energy utilization and increase financial benefits.

5. Backup Power: Battery storage systems act as backup sources during grid failures, ensuring continuous power supply to essential functions. By creating energy independence, they elevate the efficacy of solar electricity systems for households, businesses and communities.

6. Grid Interaction: In solar and battery systems linked to the grid, surplus electricity from solar panels or batteries can be sent back to the grid. This allows property owners to engage in net metering initiatives or sell extra electricity to utilities at times of high value.

Solar energy offers an array of benefits, including significant financial savings, environmental advantages and insulation from utility electric companies. As we celebrate the first days of summer, it's the perfect time to explore how solar power can benefit our world. With comprehensive support from SSM's Energy Services, transitioning to solar energy has never been easier, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions for the future.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Energy and Sustainability Services
Marika Selzler-Williams, EIT, ENV SP, CEM | marika.selzler@ssmgroup.com

Electrical Engineering Services
Seth Nace, PE | emerick.martin@ssmgroup.com

Structural Engineering Services
Jeff Thoms, PE | jeff.thoms@ssmgroup.com