The Bulletin -- August 5, 2009 (#1002)

Program: Roger Sorrell, Greg Brienza & Linda Brienza – SOLARNOVAR Green Energy Initiatives

SOLARNOVAR’S GREG BRIENZA (LEFT) AND ROGER SORRELL ANSWER ELLE BERGER’S QUESTIONS ABOUT THEIR SOLAR PANEL TECHNOLOGY.

Economic challenges facing businesses and individuals have presented opportunities for growth and change. A measurable percent of the government’s stimulus money is for green initiatives seeking to bolster the economy and the environment. Solar power is not the first thought most have when considering “greening up” the North Country, yet that is exactly what has driven Triangle Electrical Systems’ SolarNovar into growing prosperity.
Triangle is owned and operated by Greg and Linda Brienza.

In 2003, Triangle began selling solar panel systems. Though the Adirondack region is a seemingly unlikely candidate for anything solar related, the area’s unique characteristics make it ideal. Solar panels collect energy reflected from the sun, snow and the “edge of cloud” effect. Couple this with cooler temperatures that keep the operating system running optimally and the North Country becomes prime real estate for green endeavors such as this.

In 2005, the Tracker was created to replace its stationary counterpart. Whereas the stationary panels collect the sun as it passes overhead, the Tracker moved along a single path following the sun through the sky. This technological improvement made solar panel systems 30%-50% more efficient.

Greg Brienza took this idea a step further when he designed the Dual Access Tracker; a system he though to be a better fit for the Adirondacks. In perfect “sunflower fashion,” the Dual Access Tracker moves in a multidimensional path keeping the sun’s rays optimaly focused on the panels at all times.

A single system can save up to 78,600 pounds of green house gasses reducing one’s carbon footprint by 6,000-12,000 pounds. Although windmills are able to produce more kilowatt hours per year, the solar panels are discreet, in compliance with APA regulations at only 27 feet tall, and are a better solution for those with limited space seeking green energy solutions.

Triangle Electrical Systems offers different sized packages. All systems are built completely in house by Triangle’s 35 employees at 158 Quarry Rd. in Plattsburgh. Projects include everything from custom built homes and businesses to military applications such as those sought by the Air National Guard in Vermont.

Q: How many years does it take to pay for itself?
A: It depends on how the system is being utilized, but anywhere from 3 to 15 years is common.
Q: Are there tax incentives involved?
A: Absolutely—it depends on who is using the system. Schools and businesses are given different incentives than residential projects.
Q: Can you heat a house with it?
A: The solar panel system isn’t great for heating with electric, but there are ways around it.
Q: How is it effected by ice?
A: The dark panels and 45degree angle used is very effective at shedding snow relatively quickly.
Q: Are they vulnerable to vandalism?
A: The panels are designed to withstand hail storms so really theft is the biggest issue—which really isn’t much of a problem. Security systems are available to help avoid theft.
Q: What does it cost to have a system installed?
A: The formula is complicated because there are different tax incentives for different projects. The general return on investment is 3-6%.
Q: Is the “brain” of the Tracker located in the Tracker?
A: Yes, the system is completely self-contained.
Q: What kind of maintenance is required?
A: We perform yearly maintenance on the few greased fittings.

New Member Talk: Maria Alexander was born and raised in Lowville, NY with parents Richard Riani (of Keeseville) and Joan Sweat (of Saranac Lake), and two older brothers. In 1982 came to Plattsburgh, graduated from Plattsburgh State and her love of the community has kept her here since. She began working in the Head Start program at JCEO in 1987 and stayed with the agency for twenty years in various roles including Big Buddy Director and Senior Outreach Director.  After leaving JCEO and a short stint at Catholic Charities, Maria took over as Executive Director of the Senior Citizen’s Council. She met her husband Ray Alexander in 1987 and they shared a wonderful 17 years together before tying the knot in 2005. Together they owned a New Age store in Plattsburgh for five years. Maria has always been a service oriented person (she spent many years as a member of the Keeseville Elk’s Lodge) and is proud to join such a dynamic group as this Rotary Club.

This Week:

• VP Colin Read filled in for Pres. Bonnie.
• The Service Committee is in the process of brainstorming new ideas including rekindling the Blood Drive and starting youth mentoring activities. If you have ideas or are interested in helping, contact the committee chair.
• A special thanks goes out to Ange LaMariana and Ellie Murray for leading the Honor Guard at Izzy Defayette’s funeral service. Ange said the Honor Guard is looking for volunteers so please see him or Ellie if you are interested.

Visiting Rotarians: Joan Brown, Katie Kaska (Sunrise Club)

Guests: Roger Sorrell, Greg and Linda Brienza (Bob Parks)

Announcements:

• Aug 17th: Board Meeting - CCC Dining Hall, 12:15pm.
• Aug 26th: District Governor’s visit. Member attendance is appreciated.

Weekly Trivia: The question: How did Rotary get it’s name? Jack Dee answered correctly; the founding members took turns hosting the weekly meeting thus “rotating.”

Auction Item:
Nick Troisi donated a shirt with the Rotary emblem on the pocket. It was auctioned for $25 to Bob Kidwell.

Bonnie’s Bucks:

• Past Pres. Tony Searing donated $10 for having completed the Ironman. Tony—Great job (and Go Blue!).
• Past Pres. Steve Frederick announced Clinton Community College’s upcoming Regatta on 8/22. CCC is pairing up with the Business and Professional Women and Valcour Sailing Club for this event. Tickets are $30. See Steve for more information.
• Visiting Rotarian Katie Kaska announced a fundraising motorcycle ride scheduled for 9/22 to benefit breast cancer. She is happy to field questions about the event.
• Corn Forrence is still looking for pictures from 1969.
• Elle Berger says “Kudos to the Elk’s Lodge” for it’s new look.
• John Seiden had a dollar for a fundraising idea: Start a betting pool to see when he will “get his face back.” John is suffering from a case of Bells Palsy.

NEW MEMBER LINDA BRIENZA WITH CO-SPONSORS BOB PARKS AND JON COOPER

 

50/50: The pot climbed to $1,345 this week, and Rosemary Souza-Botten picked the Jack of Clubs. There are 38 cards now remaining.

Another Candle Burning For: Paul Sands (8/12)

Make-ups: On line: A. Cutaiar (7/8), S. Walker (7/8) A. Kretser (7/15,7/22,7/29), T. Clark (7/22); Elle Berger, Wesport, CT (6/9); Wallace Westfeldt, Chatuaguay, NY (7/15); Sunrise Club: R. Van Guilder (7/8), P. Grasso (7/8), A. Cutaiar (7/8)

Rotary Fun Fact: Rotary membership reached one million in 1985.

Upcoming Programs: Go to Membership Duties List