Many variables impact the effectiveness of solar energy storage solutions. Unfortunately, this may result in your solar energy solution not working as expected. Here are a few factors that may impact your system’s efficiency.
1 – Variability of Sunlight
Since solar energy can only be produced efficiently with direct sunlight on solar panels, this often is impacted by changing weather and the current season. In addition, we know that solar energy is only produced when the sun is shining on the solar panels, which means that there are several hours each day when the panels produce no power.
2 – The Type and Lifespan of Solar Storage Batteries
Most solar storage systems use high-efficiency lithium-ion batteries which are widely available, energy-efficient, have good performance, and can last between 15 and 30 years. As they age, their efficiency dwindles. But there are older solar storage batteries that are less expensive but less energy efficient.
3 – The Solar Storage System Was Installed Incorrectly
Most solar storage systems are complicated, and any mistakes during installation can make the system less efficient. This is why it is crucial to hire an experienced solar storage system electrician to install it for you. These electricians have the proper tools, knowledge, and experience to avoid making mistakes leading to sub-optimal performance, and can get the system installed quicker.
Solar storage systems require more maintenance than a simple solar panel energy setup. The amount of maintenance and tasks involved depends on what type of batteries you are using in the solar storage system. If the system uses deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, the terminals must be kept clean, and the distilled water levels must be topped off periodically. You must be careful when maintaining the storage system because the battery chemicals are corrosive and toxic—some solar storage batteries, such as lithium-require a lot less maintenance.
Is a Solar Storage System Installation Right for You?
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2022-11-solar-storage-system-atlanta-scaled.jpg17062560Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-12-10 00:00:002022-12-02 09:29:535 Reasons Your Solar Storage Solution Isn't Working as Expected
Many commercial and industrial businesses require high-voltage energy to run their equipment and infrastructure. And high voltage electrical projects are highly specialized and extremely dangerous if installed or maintained by poorly trained or inexperienced commercial or industrial electricians.
1 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Are Safer
Where high-voltage equipment is concerned, improper installation can easily create fire and electrical hazards that endanger everyone in the building. This includes expensive damage to the facilities and equipment and possibly injuring or killing anyone who works with it. Therefore, high-voltage electricians receive extensive safety training before they work on a high-voltage electrical project and complete ongoing training for the high-voltage equipment they work on.
2 – High Voltage Electricians Are Expert Problem Solvers
High-voltage electricians face many challenges with high-voltage electrical equipment such as power transformers, switching gear, control equipment, power relay panels, and industry-specific machinery. But the environment where that equipment is installed. Interfacing industrial equipment with electrical systems can present many challenges, such as:
Old buildings with inadequate electrical infrastructure to operate high-voltage equipment safely
Interfacing old equipment with new high-voltage electrical systems
Integrating high-voltage equipment into an existing installation and production setup
Insufficient or inadequate wiring for the existing equipment
Correctly diagnosing and repairing current high-voltage equipment
No solid guidelines or resources are available for some highly specialized high-voltage electrical equipment, requiring research, consultation with experts, and hands-on experience to get the installation right.
3 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Save Time
Because high-voltage electricians believe in extensive training and experience to earn certificates to work in the field, they have resources and specialized equipment that other electrical workers do not. Where other electricians struggle to figure out which tools to address the issue, an experienced high-voltage electrician will have the tools necessary and the knowledge to fix the problem faster.
4 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Save Money
Getting a high-voltage electrical problem fixed right the first time by an experienced electrician is far better than saving some money on an inexperienced electrician. An incorrect installation or repair leads to rework and possibly a fire or electrical shock.
Experienced high-voltage electricians can quickly complete complex work, quickly getting that equipment back online and limiting costly downtime.
Looking for Experienced High-Voltage Electricians?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier high-voltage electrical service providers in the Southeastern U.S. So, if you are looking for high-voltage electrical installation or repair, contact Tri-State Electrical Contractors. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2022-11-gauge-used-by-high-voltage-electrician-atlanta-scaled.jpg17612560Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-12-03 00:00:002022-12-02 09:24:514 Benefits of Hiring Experienced High-Voltage Electric Service Technicians
Solar energy storage installations and deployments set a record in 2020, with each quarter breaking the record-breaking previous quarter. The use of solar energy and solar energy storage systems is becoming more accepted and prevalent. Here are a few things you should know about solar storage:
1 – The Decreasing Cost of Solar Storage
The cost of installing a solar storage system has decreased steadily over the last ten years. And future technology and efficiency improvements should continue to reduce the cost of installing and operating a solar storage system, getting you a faster ROI.
This cost depends on many factors such as the type of solar storage system you want to install, the area where you live, and the number and composition of the batteries used within the system. A complete solar storage system can cost between $14,000 and $25,000.
2 – The Type and Lifespan of Solar Storage Batteries
Most solar storage systems use high-efficiency lithium-ion batteries which are widely available, energy-efficient, have good performance, and can last between 15 and 30 years.
3 – How Solar Energy Is Stored
Solar panels transfer energy to the batteries during daylight and sunny hours. These batteries can hold that energy and use it during the night or when the sun cannot provide enough power for your needs alone. Solar energy can be stored in these batteries for one to five days before the battery loses its charge.
4 – Excess Energy Equals Electric Company Credit
Some solar storage systems provide the option for transmitting excess energy back into the electrical grid for credit from the electric company. Imagine getting an electric bill where they pay you money!
5 – Solar Storage Systems Are a Green Alternative to Backup Generators
In recent years weather-related events have resulted in massive outages in Texas, Florida, and areas along the West Coast. Severe heat can cause the energy demand to exceed the supply causing a need for rolling blackouts during peak usage. In addition, snow and ice storms, severe thunderstorms, and weather-related events such as hurricanes can damage the electrical grid causing outages that can last days or weeks. With a solar storage system, you can maintain your power independently of the grid, allowing you to maintain power without using additional fuel. During a widespread natural disaster, generators and the diesel fuel needed to power them may be expensive and difficult (if not impossible) to find. A solar storage system allows you to maintain energy independence during these challenging events.
Is a Solar Storage System Installation Right for You?
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022-10-solar-storage-system-knoxville.jpg6221280Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-11-10 07:05:002022-11-01 07:10:295 Things You Need to Know About Solar Storage
The average person can complete most residential electrical projects with some knowledge and expert guidance via YouTube. But industrial electrical equipment is a whole other ballgame. Industrial electrical equipment is extremely complex, handles high voltages, is highly specialized, and is extremely dangerous if installed or maintained by anyone who isn’t a trained, experienced industrial electrician.
Industrial Electricians Are Safer
Inexperienced electricians endanger everyone in the building. Improper equipment installation can create fire and electrical hazards that can cause tremendous damage to the equipment and facilities, injuring or possibly killing anyone who works with that equipment. Industrial electricians receive extensive safety training before they ever get to work on an industrial electrical project and ongoing training for the equipment they work on.
Industrial Electricians Are Expert Problem Solvers
The biggest challenge that industrial electricians face is not the equipment’s installation but the environment where that equipment is installed. Interfacing industrial equipment with electrical systems can present many challenges, such as:
Old buildings with an inadequate electrical infrastructure to operate industrial equipment safely
Interfacing old industrial equipment with new electrical systems
Integrating new industrial equipment into an existing installation and production setup
Insufficient or inadequate wiring for the existing industrial equipment
Correctly diagnosing and repairing current industrial equipment
No solid guidelines or resources are available for some of the highly specialized industrial electrical configurations used. In addition, every industrial business has its own quirks and eccentricities that must be factored in when installing industrial equipment.
Industrial Electricians Save Time
Because industrial electricians believe in extensive training and experience to earn certificates to work in the field, they have resources and specialized equipment that other electrical workers do not. Where other electricians struggle to figure out which tools to address the issue, an industrial electrician will have the tools necessary and the knowledge to fix the issue. Industrial electricians are also familiar with the technology and industrial equipment within the customers’ industries, making finding and resolving problems faster.
Industrial Electricians Save Money
Getting an electrical problem fixed right the first time by an experienced industrial electrician is far better than saving a few dollars by hiring a non-specialized electrician or even trying to do it yourself and needing it to be redone. An incorrect installation or repair can also result in a fire or electrical shock, which may cause significant (and expensive) damage to your equipment, buildings, and even your people.
Because of an industrial electrician’s training and experience, they can complete even difficult work quickly, getting that equipment back online fast and limiting costly downtime. Experienced industrial electricians also can identify possible issues before they become bad enough to result in downtime or damage and pre-emptively fix them when the fix is cheaper.
Looking for Experienced Industrial Electricians?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier industrial and commercial electrical providers in the Southeastern U.S. Whether you are looking for industrial electrical installation or repair, PLC programming services, or high voltage electrical services, Tri-State Electrical Contractors can deliver. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022-10-industrial-electrician-atlanta.jpg1280852Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-11-03 06:54:002022-11-01 07:00:09Why You Should Hire Experienced Professional Industrial Electricians
A 2020 report published by the International Energy Association estimates that there will be 245 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030. This means that there has to be a robust electric charging station infrastructure installed and in place by that time. This creates a need for widespread electric vehicle charging station installations in homes, offices, and other businesses. Here are a few little-known facts about electric vehicle charging stations:
1 – Experts Expect the Percentage of Electric Vehicles within the Overall Vehicle Stock to be 30% by 2030
The EV30@30 initiative aims for the global passenger electric vehicle stock to consist of at least 30% EVs by 2030. This target assumes an annual growth rate of about 36% between 2019 and 2030.
2 – Interest in Electric Vehicles Has Been Increasing Steadily
As of 2020, nearly 1.8 million EVs were registered in the U.S., more than three times as many as in 2016, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). In a recent Pew Research Center survey, 7% of U.S. adults already have an electric or hybrid vehicle, and 39% stated they are very or somewhat likely to seriously consider buying an electric vehicle the next time they’re in the market for a new vehicle.
3 – Electrical Vehicle Charging Station Installations Also Rising Steadily
According to the evadoption.com website, the number of DC fast chargers grew by more than 4,200 ports, a 24 percent increase at the end of 2021 versus year-end 2020. EV charging infrastructure construction initiatives have been earmarked with $7.5 billion, combined with the Department of Energy’s low-interest loan program, an expected doubling of new EV sales in the US, and nationwide companies such as Circle K and 7-Eleven getting into providing EV charging infrastructure, ensures more significant growth in 2022.
4 – New Homes Required to Provide EV Charging Stations
In the UK, EV charging stations installed in new homes have been a standard practice for several years. In 2020 the International Code Council (ICC) approved US building code changes to ensure that all new homes are “EV ready” by mandating EV charging station installation. Soon the electrical infrastructure for EVs will be as common as installing a 240-volt outlet for home appliances.
5 – Off-Grid Solar Charging Stations Technology Emerging
A combination of highly efficient solar panels and solar storage solutions makes an electric vehicle charging station feasible. This is especially helpful for those who don’t travel far or often in their electric vehicles.
Need an EV Charging Station or Solar Storage Solution Installation?
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-09-electric-vehicle-charging-station-installation-atlanta.jpg8481280Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-10-10 00:00:002022-10-06 09:15:105 Little Known Facts About Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installations
Most commercial and industrial electrical system installations involve an electrical power distribution system. An electric power distribution system is between the transmission station and individual industrial and commercial customers. Typically, this power is transmitted at a lower voltage than the transmission of power over long transmission lines over great distances. The distribution system tends to step down power to commercial and industrial electrical systems.
The most common electrical power distribution systems include:
Radial Power Distribution Systems
Ring Power Distribution Systems
What is a Radial Power Distribution System?
A radial power distribution system is used for substations or generating stations located at the center of the customer’s location. For a radial PDS In this system, the feeders push electricity from one end to the distributors located at the other end. The energy can only flow in one direction.
Advantages of Radial PDS
Simple design and setup
Low initial cost
Disadvantages of Radial PDS
Not as reliable as other systems
A fault in one feeder cuts off power to the distributor and doesn’t provide any backup feeder
Radial Parallel Feeder Distribution Systems
There is a version of the radial power distribution system called a parallel feeder power distribution system. This doubles the number of feeders within the system, which improves reliability but adds considerable expense due to the doubling of the feeders.
What is a Ring Power Distribution System?
Ring distribution systems are designed so that every distribution transformer connects with two feeders using different paths. These feeders form a loop that starts at the substation bus bars, goes through the load area feeding distribution transformers and returns to the substation bus bars.
Advantages of a Ring PDS
Very reliable system
Fewer voltage fluctuations at terminal locations
Improved continuity of the power supply
Disadvantages of a Ring Main Distribution System
High initial cost.
Looking for an Experienced Industrial or Commercial Electrical Services Provider?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier industrial and commercial electrical providers in the Southeastern U.S. Whether you are looking for an industrial electric generator installation, a solar storage solution, or PLC programming and installation services, Tri-State Electrical Contractors can deliver. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-09-PDS-from-commercial-and-industrial-electrical-contractors-atlanta.jpg8541280Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-10-03 00:00:002022-10-06 08:30:32Radial vs. Ring Power Distribution Systems – What Are the Differences?
CCTV is the abbreviation for Closed-Circuit Television. The difference between CCTV and standard TV is that in CCTV, the video only broadcasts to a limited network of monitors, not over the airwaves. CCTV has been around for decades, and installing a Closed-Circuit Television network is still a cost-effective way to transmit video within your home or business. Here are just a few of the ways to use CCTV.
1 – Video Surveillance
Most uses of CCTV involve video surveillance of some sort. Most commonly to prevent or prosecute criminal activity. Using video surveillance in high-crime areas helps gather evidence for investigations, deter illegal activity, and provide eyes on more secluded sites such as stairwells, garages, rooftops, and back alleys.
2 – Workplace Surveillance
Video surveillance via CCTV helps reduce incidences of internal theft, sexual harassment, and other inappropriate activities at the workplace. The presence of cameras make employees think twice before misbehaving.
3 – Emergency Information
A CCTV camera can be moved into dangerous emergencies such as a hostage situation, a fire, or weather-related calamity and the first responders can safely review and monitor these situations without putting them in danger.
A video baby monitor is a simple CCTV system. This allows you to monitor the kids to ensure they are safe and alert you if they are awake or in distress.
6 – Improving Safety at Your Business
Having CCTV cameras active in the parking lots, hallways, stairwells, and other public spaces of your business creates a sense of security among your employees and customers. CCTV can also deter potential thieves by making them look for easier targets with less surveillance.
7 – Marketing Research
CCTV can provide valuable data about shoppers who visit brick-and-mortar stores such as:
How customers move around the store
Which areas of the store attract the most traffic
Which aisles get the most traffic within the store
When are the busiest times for the store
These are just a few of the ways that CCTV can be used to improve your home, workplace, or business.
If you have recently purchased a hybrid or electric vehicle (EV) or own or manage a business, there will be a time very soon when you will need to install a charging station. There are several steps involved with installing an EV charging station.
Location Assessment
One of the most important parts of installing an electric vehicle charging station is finding the right location for it. For a home charging station, this is easy. Install it where you park the vehicle. For a business, this can be complicated because you have to consider several other factors:
How many employees or customers have an EV
A location where to construct the EV charging station
How many vehicles can be charged at one time
Does the location have an adequate power infrastructure in place to support the EV charging station(s) to be installed? Or does the power infrastructure require an upgrade to handle the workload?
Is the location well-lit and secure?
Infrastructure Assessment
A reputable team of EV charging station installers takes time to review the infrastructure that will support the charging station. In addition to reviewing the power infrastructure, the team may determine if any construction, concrete work, or excavation needs to happen within and around the charging station site.
Obtaining Permits and Inspections (if applicable)
The EV charging station team will work with local officials and agencies to line up the proper permits and inspections for the construction of the charging station.
Incentive Review
There are many city, state, and Federal incentives and rebates available for customers who install green energy infrastructure. These can be tax breaks, utility company rebates, and local and state credits. These vary from location to location. Be sure to work with an experienced electric vehicle charging station installer to help apply for all the rebates you qualify for.
Construction
This stage of the process may involve some excavation, running electrical cables to buildings, building the infrastructure surrounding the EV charging station, such as a charging bay, light poles, landscaping, and much more.
Looking for an Experienced Electric Charging Station Installer?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier electric charging station installers in the Southestern US. For more information or to get a quote for an EV charging station installation, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2022-08-electric-vehicle-charging-station-installation-nashville.jpg7641280Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-09-03 00:00:002022-09-05 09:32:29What is Involved in an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation?
Copper cables have been the gold standard for most wiring jobs for over 100 years. They are highly conductive and great for voice transmission. But fiber optic cable is superior in many ways for structured network and backbone cabling. Here are some of them.
1 — Transmits Faster
Because fiber optic cables use a light core to carry and transmit data, the signals travel at about 70% of the speed of light (or close to 470,000,000 MPH). This is much faster than any copper cable can manage. As a result, there is also less signal degradation with fiber cables.
2 – Carries Signals Over Longer Distances
Copper wiring has a limitation of around 328 feet before the signal degrades. Fiber optic cables can carry signals much farther—miles instead of feet. The distance depends on the fiber optic cable type used, the signal’s wavelength, and the network that supports it.
3 – Greater Bandwidth
When comparing copper cables to optical fiber cables of a similar size, fiber optic cable carries far more data than copper cables can.
4 – More Reliable
Copper carries electricity. As a result, bad weather, extreme temperature changes, and even a little moisture can reduce copper cables’ connectivity and effectiveness. Also, because it carries electric current, it is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can disrupt transmission. Because fiber uses light instead of an electric current, it is immune to extreme temperatures, bad weather, EMI, and moisture. It is also corrosion-resistant.
5 – Lighter and More Rugged
Copper is heavy and bulky. When comparing fiber cables to copper cables, fiber optic cables are thinner and lighter. Because of the nature of fiber optic cable, it is far less fragile than copper. It can be pulled, bent, and twisted in ways that copper cannot.
6 – Easier to Install
When installing cabling, copper can be more challenging because it has to be thicker to handle the bandwidth of a typical organization. For this reason, it is challenging to run copper wire through walls, it requires bigger holes to run them through and more construction to make the copper cable work smoothly. Because fiber optic cable is significantly thinner, it requires a lot less space and work to get them where they need to go in a building.
7 – Integrates Well Into Existing Technology
Today’s network equipment manufacturers produce components that allow you to integrate fiber-optic-cable into existing networks. Because fiber optic cable uses light instead of electricity, it can be installed along old electrical cables without causing interference.
Looking for a Fiber Optic Network Equipment Installation?
Since 2010, over 2.4 million hybrid and electric vehicles have been sold in the US. Between January 2021 and January 2022, there has been a 37% increase in the number of “plug-in” electric vehicles and hybrids sold. With a Biden Administration executive order targeting 50% of all vehicle sales to be electric vehicle sales by 2030, US drivers have numerous incentives to purchase these vehicles. What does this mean for you? A greater need for infrastructure to support electric cars. But what are some of the things you should know about electric vehicle chargers?
There Are Different “Levels” of Electric Vehicle Chargers
A Level 1 charger uses a standard 120-volt electric outlet which most homes already have in their garages or near where they park their vehicles. The convenience is great, but the speed of charging using a 120-volt is very slow, up to 8 hours to fully charge a hybrid and up to 20 for an electric vehicle. And for commuters who drive a lot, that might be a problem.
Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet—like the one used by your dryer and allow you to charge your vehicles up to 5 times faster than a Level 1 charging station.
Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations are designed for residential use. Level 3 charging stations use very high voltages to charge electric vehicles quickly and are better used in commercial applications when many vehicles need one charging station.
The Cost of Electric Vehicle Chargers
There are two significant expenses associated with powering electric vehicles; the cost of hiring a qualified commercial electrical company to install an electric vehicle charging station and the cost of electricity.
The cost of charging the average electric vehicle is about the same as running the average central air conditioning system for 6 to 12 hours. When compared to the price of gas, this cost is a bargain.
Although you can install an electric vehicle charging station yourself, that might not be a good idea. If it isn’t done correctly, the charging station may damage the vehicle’s battery which is (by far) the most expensive component in the vehicle. Instead, having a trained professional such as the commercial electricians at Tri-State Electrical Contractors is a better idea. At Tri-State Electrical, our electricians have been trained to properly install electric vehicle charging stations and can do it for residential, commercial, or industrial electrical customers.
For more information or to get a quote for our commercial or industrial electrical services, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
https://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022-07-electric-vehicle-charging-station-knoxville.jpg9601280Scott McCoyhttps://tristateec.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/tri-state-electrical-solar-installers-chattanooga-logo.pngScott McCoy2022-08-03 00:00:002022-08-11 12:45:08Two Things You Need to Know About Electric Vehicle Chargers
5 Reasons Your Solar Storage Solution Isn’t Working as Expected
/0 Comments/in Solar Energy Solutions /by Scott McCoyMany variables impact the effectiveness of solar energy storage solutions. Unfortunately, this may result in your solar energy solution not working as expected. Here are a few factors that may impact your system’s efficiency.
1 – Variability of Sunlight
Since solar energy can only be produced efficiently with direct sunlight on solar panels, this often is impacted by changing weather and the current season. In addition, we know that solar energy is only produced when the sun is shining on the solar panels, which means that there are several hours each day when the panels produce no power.
2 – The Type and Lifespan of Solar Storage Batteries
Most solar storage systems use high-efficiency lithium-ion batteries which are widely available, energy-efficient, have good performance, and can last between 15 and 30 years. As they age, their efficiency dwindles. But there are older solar storage batteries that are less expensive but less energy efficient.
3 – The Solar Storage System Was Installed Incorrectly
Most solar storage systems are complicated, and any mistakes during installation can make the system less efficient. This is why it is crucial to hire an experienced solar storage system electrician to install it for you. These electricians have the proper tools, knowledge, and experience to avoid making mistakes leading to sub-optimal performance, and can get the system installed quicker.
4 – Prohibitive Cost
Solar storage systems are expensive, especially if you need to replace any batteries for the system. Batteries for these systems can cost anywhere between $8500 and $20,000, depending on the type of battery you install. Of course, the price is higher if you use many batteries within your solar storage system.
5 – Solar Storage Systems Need Maintenance
Solar storage systems require more maintenance than a simple solar panel energy setup. The amount of maintenance and tasks involved depends on what type of batteries you are using in the solar storage system. If the system uses deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, the terminals must be kept clean, and the distilled water levels must be topped off periodically. You must be careful when maintaining the storage system because the battery chemicals are corrosive and toxic—some solar storage batteries, such as lithium-require a lot less maintenance.
Is a Solar Storage System Installation Right for You?
Give Tri-State Electrical Contractors a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com, and we can provide you with a comprehensive solar energy assessment to help determine what solar storage solution might work best for you.
4 Benefits of Hiring Experienced High-Voltage Electric Service Technicians
/0 Comments/in Electrical Services /by Scott McCoyMany commercial and industrial businesses require high-voltage energy to run their equipment and infrastructure. And high voltage electrical projects are highly specialized and extremely dangerous if installed or maintained by poorly trained or inexperienced commercial or industrial electricians.
1 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Are Safer
Where high-voltage equipment is concerned, improper installation can easily create fire and electrical hazards that endanger everyone in the building. This includes expensive damage to the facilities and equipment and possibly injuring or killing anyone who works with it. Therefore, high-voltage electricians receive extensive safety training before they work on a high-voltage electrical project and complete ongoing training for the high-voltage equipment they work on.
2 – High Voltage Electricians Are Expert Problem Solvers
High-voltage electricians face many challenges with high-voltage electrical equipment such as power transformers, switching gear, control equipment, power relay panels, and industry-specific machinery. But the environment where that equipment is installed. Interfacing industrial equipment with electrical systems can present many challenges, such as:
No solid guidelines or resources are available for some highly specialized high-voltage electrical equipment, requiring research, consultation with experts, and hands-on experience to get the installation right.
3 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Save Time
Because high-voltage electricians believe in extensive training and experience to earn certificates to work in the field, they have resources and specialized equipment that other electrical workers do not. Where other electricians struggle to figure out which tools to address the issue, an experienced high-voltage electrician will have the tools necessary and the knowledge to fix the problem faster.
4 — Experienced High-Voltage Electricians Save Money
Getting a high-voltage electrical problem fixed right the first time by an experienced electrician is far better than saving some money on an inexperienced electrician. An incorrect installation or repair leads to rework and possibly a fire or electrical shock.
Experienced high-voltage electricians can quickly complete complex work, quickly getting that equipment back online and limiting costly downtime.
Looking for Experienced High-Voltage Electricians?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier high-voltage electrical service providers in the Southeastern U.S. So, if you are looking for high-voltage electrical installation or repair, contact Tri-State Electrical Contractors. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
5 Things You Need to Know About Solar Storage
/0 Comments/in Solar Energy Solutions /by Scott McCoySolar energy storage installations and deployments set a record in 2020, with each quarter breaking the record-breaking previous quarter. The use of solar energy and solar energy storage systems is becoming more accepted and prevalent. Here are a few things you should know about solar storage:
1 – The Decreasing Cost of Solar Storage
The cost of installing a solar storage system has decreased steadily over the last ten years. And future technology and efficiency improvements should continue to reduce the cost of installing and operating a solar storage system, getting you a faster ROI.
This cost depends on many factors such as the type of solar storage system you want to install, the area where you live, and the number and composition of the batteries used within the system. A complete solar storage system can cost between $14,000 and $25,000.
2 – The Type and Lifespan of Solar Storage Batteries
Most solar storage systems use high-efficiency lithium-ion batteries which are widely available, energy-efficient, have good performance, and can last between 15 and 30 years.
3 – How Solar Energy Is Stored
Solar panels transfer energy to the batteries during daylight and sunny hours. These batteries can hold that energy and use it during the night or when the sun cannot provide enough power for your needs alone. Solar energy can be stored in these batteries for one to five days before the battery loses its charge.
4 – Excess Energy Equals Electric Company Credit
Some solar storage systems provide the option for transmitting excess energy back into the electrical grid for credit from the electric company. Imagine getting an electric bill where they pay you money!
5 – Solar Storage Systems Are a Green Alternative to Backup Generators
In recent years weather-related events have resulted in massive outages in Texas, Florida, and areas along the West Coast. Severe heat can cause the energy demand to exceed the supply causing a need for rolling blackouts during peak usage. In addition, snow and ice storms, severe thunderstorms, and weather-related events such as hurricanes can damage the electrical grid causing outages that can last days or weeks. With a solar storage system, you can maintain your power independently of the grid, allowing you to maintain power without using additional fuel. During a widespread natural disaster, generators and the diesel fuel needed to power them may be expensive and difficult (if not impossible) to find. A solar storage system allows you to maintain energy independence during these challenging events.
Is a Solar Storage System Installation Right for You?
Give Tri-State Electrical Contractors a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com, and we can provide you with a comprehensive solar energy assessment to help determine what solar storage solution might work best for you.
Why You Should Hire Experienced Professional Industrial Electricians
/0 Comments/in Industrial Electrical /by Scott McCoyThe average person can complete most residential electrical projects with some knowledge and expert guidance via YouTube. But industrial electrical equipment is a whole other ballgame. Industrial electrical equipment is extremely complex, handles high voltages, is highly specialized, and is extremely dangerous if installed or maintained by anyone who isn’t a trained, experienced industrial electrician.
Industrial Electricians Are Safer
Inexperienced electricians endanger everyone in the building. Improper equipment installation can create fire and electrical hazards that can cause tremendous damage to the equipment and facilities, injuring or possibly killing anyone who works with that equipment. Industrial electricians receive extensive safety training before they ever get to work on an industrial electrical project and ongoing training for the equipment they work on.
Industrial Electricians Are Expert Problem Solvers
The biggest challenge that industrial electricians face is not the equipment’s installation but the environment where that equipment is installed. Interfacing industrial equipment with electrical systems can present many challenges, such as:
No solid guidelines or resources are available for some of the highly specialized industrial electrical configurations used. In addition, every industrial business has its own quirks and eccentricities that must be factored in when installing industrial equipment.
Industrial Electricians Save Time
Because industrial electricians believe in extensive training and experience to earn certificates to work in the field, they have resources and specialized equipment that other electrical workers do not. Where other electricians struggle to figure out which tools to address the issue, an industrial electrician will have the tools necessary and the knowledge to fix the issue. Industrial electricians are also familiar with the technology and industrial equipment within the customers’ industries, making finding and resolving problems faster.
Industrial Electricians Save Money
Getting an electrical problem fixed right the first time by an experienced industrial electrician is far better than saving a few dollars by hiring a non-specialized electrician or even trying to do it yourself and needing it to be redone. An incorrect installation or repair can also result in a fire or electrical shock, which may cause significant (and expensive) damage to your equipment, buildings, and even your people.
Because of an industrial electrician’s training and experience, they can complete even difficult work quickly, getting that equipment back online fast and limiting costly downtime. Experienced industrial electricians also can identify possible issues before they become bad enough to result in downtime or damage and pre-emptively fix them when the fix is cheaper.
Looking for Experienced Industrial Electricians?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier industrial and commercial electrical providers in the Southeastern U.S. Whether you are looking for industrial electrical installation or repair, PLC programming services, or high voltage electrical services, Tri-State Electrical Contractors can deliver. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
5 Little Known Facts About Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installations
/0 Comments/in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure /by Scott McCoyA 2020 report published by the International Energy Association estimates that there will be 245 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030. This means that there has to be a robust electric charging station infrastructure installed and in place by that time. This creates a need for widespread electric vehicle charging station installations in homes, offices, and other businesses. Here are a few little-known facts about electric vehicle charging stations:
1 – Experts Expect the Percentage of Electric Vehicles within the Overall Vehicle Stock to be 30% by 2030
The EV30@30 initiative aims for the global passenger electric vehicle stock to consist of at least 30% EVs by 2030. This target assumes an annual growth rate of about 36% between 2019 and 2030.
2 – Interest in Electric Vehicles Has Been Increasing Steadily
As of 2020, nearly 1.8 million EVs were registered in the U.S., more than three times as many as in 2016, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). In a recent Pew Research Center survey, 7% of U.S. adults already have an electric or hybrid vehicle, and 39% stated they are very or somewhat likely to seriously consider buying an electric vehicle the next time they’re in the market for a new vehicle.
3 – Electrical Vehicle Charging Station Installations Also Rising Steadily
According to the evadoption.com website, the number of DC fast chargers grew by more than 4,200 ports, a 24 percent increase at the end of 2021 versus year-end 2020. EV charging infrastructure construction initiatives have been earmarked with $7.5 billion, combined with the Department of Energy’s low-interest loan program, an expected doubling of new EV sales in the US, and nationwide companies such as Circle K and 7-Eleven getting into providing EV charging infrastructure, ensures more significant growth in 2022.
4 – New Homes Required to Provide EV Charging Stations
In the UK, EV charging stations installed in new homes have been a standard practice for several years. In 2020 the International Code Council (ICC) approved US building code changes to ensure that all new homes are “EV ready” by mandating EV charging station installation. Soon the electrical infrastructure for EVs will be as common as installing a 240-volt outlet for home appliances.
5 – Off-Grid Solar Charging Stations Technology Emerging
A combination of highly efficient solar panels and solar storage solutions makes an electric vehicle charging station feasible. This is especially helpful for those who don’t travel far or often in their electric vehicles.
Need an EV Charging Station or Solar Storage Solution Installation?
Give Tri-State Electrical Contractors a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com Our industrial and commercial electricians understand the components, infrastructure, and needs of these options.
Radial vs. Ring Power Distribution Systems – What Are the Differences?
/0 Comments/in Commercial Electrical, Industrial Electrical /by Scott McCoyMost commercial and industrial electrical system installations involve an electrical power distribution system. An electric power distribution system is between the transmission station and individual industrial and commercial customers. Typically, this power is transmitted at a lower voltage than the transmission of power over long transmission lines over great distances. The distribution system tends to step down power to commercial and industrial electrical systems.
The most common electrical power distribution systems include:
What is a Radial Power Distribution System?
A radial power distribution system is used for substations or generating stations located at the center of the customer’s location. For a radial PDS In this system, the feeders push electricity from one end to the distributors located at the other end. The energy can only flow in one direction.
Advantages of Radial PDS
Disadvantages of Radial PDS
Radial Parallel Feeder Distribution Systems
There is a version of the radial power distribution system called a parallel feeder power distribution system. This doubles the number of feeders within the system, which improves reliability but adds considerable expense due to the doubling of the feeders.
What is a Ring Power Distribution System?
Ring distribution systems are designed so that every distribution transformer connects with two feeders using different paths. These feeders form a loop that starts at the substation bus bars, goes through the load area feeding distribution transformers and returns to the substation bus bars.
Advantages of a Ring PDS
Disadvantages of a Ring Main Distribution System
Looking for an Experienced Industrial or Commercial Electrical Services Provider?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier industrial and commercial electrical providers in the Southeastern U.S. Whether you are looking for an industrial electric generator installation, a solar storage solution, or PLC programming and installation services, Tri-State Electrical Contractors can deliver. For more information or to get a quote, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
7 Beneficial Uses of CCTV
/0 Comments/in CCTV /by Scott McCoyCCTV is the abbreviation for Closed-Circuit Television. The difference between CCTV and standard TV is that in CCTV, the video only broadcasts to a limited network of monitors, not over the airwaves. CCTV has been around for decades, and installing a Closed-Circuit Television network is still a cost-effective way to transmit video within your home or business. Here are just a few of the ways to use CCTV.
1 – Video Surveillance
Most uses of CCTV involve video surveillance of some sort. Most commonly to prevent or prosecute criminal activity. Using video surveillance in high-crime areas helps gather evidence for investigations, deter illegal activity, and provide eyes on more secluded sites such as stairwells, garages, rooftops, and back alleys.
2 – Workplace Surveillance
Video surveillance via CCTV helps reduce incidences of internal theft, sexual harassment, and other inappropriate activities at the workplace. The presence of cameras make employees think twice before misbehaving.
3 – Emergency Information
A CCTV camera can be moved into dangerous emergencies such as a hostage situation, a fire, or weather-related calamity and the first responders can safely review and monitor these situations without putting them in danger.
4 – Monitoring Traffic
Not only can CCTV be used at traffic lights to catch drivers speeding or running red lights, but they can also monitor traffic and other events and conditions in real-time or monitor community street activities. This information can also be used for research purposes to improve traffic flow and provide up-to-the-minute information about the traffic within the city.
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5 – Child Safety
A video baby monitor is a simple CCTV system. This allows you to monitor the kids to ensure they are safe and alert you if they are awake or in distress.
6 – Improving Safety at Your Business
Having CCTV cameras active in the parking lots, hallways, stairwells, and other public spaces of your business creates a sense of security among your employees and customers. CCTV can also deter potential thieves by making them look for easier targets with less surveillance.
7 – Marketing Research
CCTV can provide valuable data about shoppers who visit brick-and-mortar stores such as:
These are just a few of the ways that CCTV can be used to improve your home, workplace, or business.
Need CCTV Installed ASAP?
Give Tri-State Electrical Contractors a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com Our industrial and commercial electricians understand the components, networks, and needs of CCTV systems.
What is Involved in an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation?
/0 Comments/in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure /by Scott McCoyIf you have recently purchased a hybrid or electric vehicle (EV) or own or manage a business, there will be a time very soon when you will need to install a charging station. There are several steps involved with installing an EV charging station.
Location Assessment
One of the most important parts of installing an electric vehicle charging station is finding the right location for it. For a home charging station, this is easy. Install it where you park the vehicle. For a business, this can be complicated because you have to consider several other factors:
Infrastructure Assessment
A reputable team of EV charging station installers takes time to review the infrastructure that will support the charging station. In addition to reviewing the power infrastructure, the team may determine if any construction, concrete work, or excavation needs to happen within and around the charging station site.
Obtaining Permits and Inspections (if applicable)
The EV charging station team will work with local officials and agencies to line up the proper permits and inspections for the construction of the charging station.
Incentive Review
There are many city, state, and Federal incentives and rebates available for customers who install green energy infrastructure. These can be tax breaks, utility company rebates, and local and state credits. These vary from location to location. Be sure to work with an experienced electric vehicle charging station installer to help apply for all the rebates you qualify for.
Construction
This stage of the process may involve some excavation, running electrical cables to buildings, building the infrastructure surrounding the EV charging station, such as a charging bay, light poles, landscaping, and much more.
Looking for an Experienced Electric Charging Station Installer?
Then look no further. Tri-State Electrical is one of the premier electric charging station installers in the Southestern US. For more information or to get a quote for an EV charging station installation, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com today.
7 Benefits of Installing Optical Fiber Cabling Over Copper Wire
/0 Comments/in Cabling /by Scott McCoyCopper cables have been the gold standard for most wiring jobs for over 100 years. They are highly conductive and great for voice transmission. But fiber optic cable is superior in many ways for structured network and backbone cabling. Here are some of them.
1 — Transmits Faster
Because fiber optic cables use a light core to carry and transmit data, the signals travel at about 70% of the speed of light (or close to 470,000,000 MPH). This is much faster than any copper cable can manage. As a result, there is also less signal degradation with fiber cables.
2 – Carries Signals Over Longer Distances
Copper wiring has a limitation of around 328 feet before the signal degrades. Fiber optic cables can carry signals much farther—miles instead of feet. The distance depends on the fiber optic cable type used, the signal’s wavelength, and the network that supports it.
3 – Greater Bandwidth
When comparing copper cables to optical fiber cables of a similar size, fiber optic cable carries far more data than copper cables can.
4 – More Reliable
Copper carries electricity. As a result, bad weather, extreme temperature changes, and even a little moisture can reduce copper cables’ connectivity and effectiveness. Also, because it carries electric current, it is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can disrupt transmission. Because fiber uses light instead of an electric current, it is immune to extreme temperatures, bad weather, EMI, and moisture. It is also corrosion-resistant.
5 – Lighter and More Rugged
Copper is heavy and bulky. When comparing fiber cables to copper cables, fiber optic cables are thinner and lighter. Because of the nature of fiber optic cable, it is far less fragile than copper. It can be pulled, bent, and twisted in ways that copper cannot.
6 – Easier to Install
When installing cabling, copper can be more challenging because it has to be thicker to handle the bandwidth of a typical organization. For this reason, it is challenging to run copper wire through walls, it requires bigger holes to run them through and more construction to make the copper cable work smoothly. Because fiber optic cable is significantly thinner, it requires a lot less space and work to get them where they need to go in a building.
7 – Integrates Well Into Existing Technology
Today’s network equipment manufacturers produce components that allow you to integrate fiber-optic-cable into existing networks. Because fiber optic cable uses light instead of electricity, it can be installed along old electrical cables without causing interference.
Looking for a Fiber Optic Network Equipment Installation?
Give Tri-State Electrical Contractors a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com Our industrial and commercial electricians understand the components, networks, and needs of modern-day fiber optic systems.
Two Things You Need to Know About Electric Vehicle Chargers
/0 Comments/in Electric Vehicle Infrastructure /by Scott McCoySince 2010, over 2.4 million hybrid and electric vehicles have been sold in the US. Between January 2021 and January 2022, there has been a 37% increase in the number of “plug-in” electric vehicles and hybrids sold. With a Biden Administration executive order targeting 50% of all vehicle sales to be electric vehicle sales by 2030, US drivers have numerous incentives to purchase these vehicles. What does this mean for you? A greater need for infrastructure to support electric cars. But what are some of the things you should know about electric vehicle chargers?
There Are Different “Levels” of Electric Vehicle Chargers
A Level 1 charger uses a standard 120-volt electric outlet which most homes already have in their garages or near where they park their vehicles. The convenience is great, but the speed of charging using a 120-volt is very slow, up to 8 hours to fully charge a hybrid and up to 20 for an electric vehicle. And for commuters who drive a lot, that might be a problem.
Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet—like the one used by your dryer and allow you to charge your vehicles up to 5 times faster than a Level 1 charging station.
Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations are designed for residential use. Level 3 charging stations use very high voltages to charge electric vehicles quickly and are better used in commercial applications when many vehicles need one charging station.
The Cost of Electric Vehicle Chargers
There are two significant expenses associated with powering electric vehicles; the cost of hiring a qualified commercial electrical company to install an electric vehicle charging station and the cost of electricity.
The cost of charging the average electric vehicle is about the same as running the average central air conditioning system for 6 to 12 hours. When compared to the price of gas, this cost is a bargain.
Although you can install an electric vehicle charging station yourself, that might not be a good idea. If it isn’t done correctly, the charging station may damage the vehicle’s battery which is (by far) the most expensive component in the vehicle. Instead, having a trained professional such as the commercial electricians at Tri-State Electrical Contractors is a better idea. At Tri-State Electrical, our electricians have been trained to properly install electric vehicle charging stations and can do it for residential, commercial, or industrial electrical customers.
For more information or to get a quote for our commercial or industrial electrical services, call (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com today.