Ampacity marks three-year anniversary of Kentucky distribution center

Ampacity recently celebrated the three-year anniversary of its 178,000-square-foot Brooks, Kentucky, solar distribution warehouse. Since 2023, this warehouse has supplied solar companies across the country with the top tracker models and kitting solutions to expedite construction.

At the anniversary celebration, Ampacity leaders joined the Brooks team to recognize their achievements and look ahead to the future.

“We’re so proud of the growth and fine-tuning we’ve accomplished over the past three years, and we’re excited to expand our capabilities further over the next three,” said Wes Allen, Senior Director of Warehouse Operations and Logistics Executions.

The strategically located Brooks warehouse allows trucks to get to almost anywhere in the country within two days. The facility receives thousands of trucks throughout the year, maintaining a steady and manageable flow of inventory.

In 2025, Brooks workers single-handedly kitted roughly 24,678 tracker rows—over 1 GW of solar building blocks ready to go in the ground.

Kentucky is one of Ampacity’s three major synchronized distribution hubs working together to deliver products to solar and electrical jobsites nationwide. Combined with the company’s distribution center and stockyard in Kosciusko, Mississippi, and its newest location in Des Moines, Iowa, Ampacity has over 1 million square feet of storage space.

Along with solar tracker equipment, Ampacity is ramping up its stock of electrical components for battery storage, data center, and other energy projects.

“Ampacity’s mission is to be the most reliable value-added solar and electrical distribution partner. Our multi-state distribution operation is key to our success,” Allen said.

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Meet critical project deadlines with powerful partnerships

A completed solar array by Ampacity.The next few years are crucial for locking in waning federal tax incentives for solar, storage, and other clean energy projects via the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Choosing the right partners for engineering, distribution, delivery, and installation could mean the difference between earning tax credits and leaving them on the table.

For projects larger than 1.5 MW, new rules set in August 2025 ended the ability to use the 5% safe harbor, where a company could prove significant costs have been incurred for the project. These larger projects must now all satisfy the “physical work test,” proving significant physical labor has begun on a site.

In order for projects to secure the investment tax credit (ITC) and have four years to complete construction, they must officially “start construction” by July 4, 2026. If they do not meet that deadline, they must place projects in service by December 31, 2027, to receive any credit.

Here are some ways to expedite your processes and meet important project deadlines.

Always consult with a tax professional on any tax credit requirement questions.

Engineering

Choosing a solar design and engineering team with deep technical knowledge is crucial for a firm project foundation. Ampacity’s specific experience with the leading solar tracker brands can help you maximize megawatts and optimize output, no matter the project footprint.

“We work with the two biggest tracker manufacturers on the planet. If you’re in a time crunch, we can process and engineer these portfolios faster than anyone else,” said Dylan Wraga, Senior VP of Business Development at Ampacity.

Kitting and distribution

Ampacity offers kitting and distribution services. Partnering with a solar equipment distributor with a high volume of on-hand inventory keeps projects moving and deadlines met. Ampacity has three warehouses across the United States distributing structural and electrical solar materials, ready to help with any challenge.

For even more streamlined field work, Ampacity also offers kitting and pre-assembly services. All materials for each tracker row are pre-assembled, boxed, and labeled with a specific row number. This speeds installation time, reduces errors by assembling in a controlled warehouse environment, and streamlines construction schedules.

Installation

There are plenty of solar installation partners out there, but not all have the relationships and expertise in single-axis trackers that Ampacity has built since 2014.

“Our team will assess your project’s specific environmental conditions, parcel shape, and topography to install the best tracking solar system possible,” Wraga said.

Ampacity workers install an Array Technologies solar tracker project. Clients can also rest assured that they’ll meet workforce IRA requirements through Ampacity’s own Registered Apprenticeship program.

From on-site project management to mechanical and electrical installation and commissioning, Ampacity will ensure the job gets done on time and by the book.

“Ampacity is an accelerator. We believe we can help you get more done in the calendar year than any other partner,” Wraga said. “Whether you’re in a pinch or putting together your long-term strategy, we are well-positioned to help you meet deadlines with our abundance of project services.”

If upcoming project deadlines feel intimidating, reach out to Ampacity to see how our full suite of value-added solar services can help.

Ampacity Hosts Ribbon-Cutting Event to Celebrate Operations at its 300,000-Square-Foot Distribution Center in Des Moines, Iowa

The distribution center, built and operated by Ampacity, will support power infrastructure projects in Iowa, the Midwest, and nationwide.

 

ampacity des moinesDes Moines, Iowa – [November 19, 2025] – Ampacity LLC hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday to celebrate the opening of the company’s 300,000-square-foot distribution facility in Des Moines, Iowa. The new warehouse represents Ampacity’s commitment to serving the construction firms, developers, and utilities building solar, wind, battery storage, and data center infrastructure projects throughout Iowa and the Midwest.

The ribbon-cutting event was attended by legislators, local business owners, and community members to celebrate the collaborative efforts to bring the distribution center into operation. Speakers included David Young, Chair, Iowa House Commerce Committee; Eben Russell, President at Ampacity; Jimmy Olsen, Executive Director at the Des Moines City Chamber of Commerce; Crosby Fish, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Ampacity; and Jason Holsman, Government Affairs Director at the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA). Ampacity’s CFO Crosby Fish served as the Master of Ceremonies.

ampacity david young eb russell
David Young, Chair, Iowa House Commerce Committee, and Eben Russell, President, Ampacity

“We were specifically drawn to the Des Moines area by the local talent pool—there is a lot of expertise in the supply chain and logistics fields here. In addition, Des Moines provides multiple strategic advantages, such as proximity to our customers’ projects and positioning on major freight lanes,” commented Eben Russell, President of Ampacity. “Our goal is to build a team in Iowa that cares about the impact we’re making and is committed to meeting power demand as quickly and reliably as possible.”

Throughout the event, Ampacity emphasized the local economic stimulation the facility will provide to the Des Moines region. Ampacity has invested nearly $2 million in the warehouse and will employ 25 long-term employees. During operations, the distribution center will contribute around $1 million annually to the Des Moines community through payroll, tax payments, and other local expenditures.

The new Des Moines facility functions as an operational hub carrying out the stocking, fulfillment, logistics, kitting and prefabrication, and material storage functions that keep large, complex renewables projects running smoothly. The distribution center will support and promote further deployment in the region by providing essential support to nearby power generation and data center projects.

ampacity distribution center “Power demand from data centers and other sources is driving the renewables and battery storage sector at a record rate. Electricity demand in Iowa alone is expected to increase by 30 to 60 percent in the next two decades. Agility is more important than ever, and Ampacity’s distribution center provides rapid and flexible solutions for the Midwest,” Crosby Fish, CFO of Ampacity said. “We provide key materials and logistics to community solar and utility-scale projects alike—all of which are vital to meeting America’s growing energy needs.”

 

Expanded Electrical Solutions
In addition to expanded handling and distribution capacity for Ampacity’s longstanding single-axis solar tracker business line, the Des Moines site houses the company’s largest-ever investments in handling and processing machinery for electrical goods. The warehouse features a three-to-one wire spooling line that simplifies cable installation by combining multiple reels into a single run. The team at the facility also performs custom cutting of medium-voltage cables and assembles modular kits that are pre-configured for specific phases of construction. These activities help reduce manual labor, limit installation errors, and enable customers to keep their projects moving with greater consistency and efficiency.

“Electricity demand in Iowa is rising fast, and meeting that challenge will require more local generation and more flexible distributed energy resources,” said Jason Holsman, Director of Government Affairs at the Coalition for Community Solar Access. “As lawmakers consider creating a statewide community solar program in Iowa, facilities like Ampacity’s new distribution center show what’s possible when the private sector has the tools it needs to deliver projects efficiently. A stronger local supply chain means faster deployment, lower construction costs, and more reliable clean energy options for Iowa communities. This is exactly the type of investment that can help community solar take root and thrive in the state.”

 

Read our article in Iowa’s Business Record: “Ampacity hosts ribbon-cutting for new Des Moines distribution center

 

 

About Ampacity
Ampacity delivers a forward-thinking approach to structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects—and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Comprising more than 350 passionate professionals who specialize in simplifying and accelerating clean energy deployment across North America, Ampacity is committed to providing comprehensive solutions that ensure project deadlines are met. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered nearly eight gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

 

Ampacity Opens 300,000-Square-Foot Distribution Center in Des Moines, Iowa to Support Power Infrastructure Projects Nationwide

ampacity des moines distribution facility

Des Moines, Iowa – [September 30, 2025] – Ampacity LLC today announced that its new 300,000-square-foot distribution facility in Des Moines, Iowa, is fully operational. The new warehouse represents Ampacity’s commitment to serving the construction firms, developers, and utilities building solar, wind, battery storage, and data center infrastructure projects across the United States.

The new Des Moines facility functions as an operational hub carrying out the stocking, fulfillment, logistics, kitting and prefabrication, and material storage functions that keep large, complex projects running smoothly. The facility is a significant step in Ampacity’s growth and diversification plan, as Eben Russell, Founder and President of Ampacity, explains. “It’s only been two years since we opened our Kentucky warehouse, and that facility is now running at full capacity. The industry is asking for more from us, and this new distribution center is a key part of our response. Des Moines checked all the boxes: proximity to our customers’ projects, position on major freight lanes, and—always most important for us—a great pool of talent that we can draw from as we grow our team. We are actively adding new products and supply chain services to the Ampacity solution set. The Des Moines facility is at the heart of those efforts.”

 

Expanded electrical solutions

In addition to expanded handling and distribution capacity for Ampacity’s longstanding single-axis solar tracker business line, the Des Moines site houses the company’s largest-ever investments in handling and processing machinery for electrical goods. The warehouse features a three-to-one wire spooling line that simplifies cable installation by combining multiple reels into a single run. The team at the facility also performs custom cutting of medium-voltage cables and assembles modular kits that are pre-configured for specific phases of construction. These activities help reduce manual labor, limit installation errors, and enable customers to keep their projects moving with greater consistency and efficiency.

“Our name, Ampacity, speaks directly to the electrical side of our distribution business. This facility is where action is,” says Crosby Fish, CFO of Ampacity. “The power sector is moving at unprecedented speed, driven by rising power demands from data centers and the continued buildout of renewables and battery storage. With Des Moines, we’re delivering answers, investing in machinery, kitting and prefabrication solutions, inventory, and—at the root of it all—building a team that can move at the pace our customers need.”

“We’ve gotten this facility off the ground fast. In this market, time is of the essence, and we’re already stocked with the wire and cable, termination kits, sectionalizing cabinets, and single-axis tracker material that our customers need to keep moving,” says Jeremy Haugen, Ampacity’s Director of Operations in Des Moines. “At this point, our focus is on scaling up the prefabrication and kitting work that we perform in the warehouse. Ampacity has a tradition of trusting people with years of experience in the field to create better ways of delivering goods. We’re bringing that spirit to Des Moines.”

 

 

About Ampacity
Ampacity delivers a forward-thinking approach to structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects—and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Comprising more than 350 passionate professionals who specialize in simplifying and accelerating clean energy deployment across North America, Ampacity is committed to providing comprehensive solutions that ensure project deadlines are met. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered more than seven gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

 

One Big Not-So-Beautiful Bill: What H.R. 1’s Passing Means for the U.S. Solar Industry—and How Ampacity is Ready to Help

The passing of the budget reconciliation bill H.R. 1—dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)”—marked a pivotal moment in U.S. energy policy. The bill’s sweeping repeal of many renewable energy subsidies raised alarms across the clean energy sector. Since its passage in July, the industry has been adjusting to the new landscape ushered in by the OBBBA.

Since the OBBBA was passed in July, stakeholders across the solar industry have been developing strategies to secure tax credits for their projects, validate compliance with new procurement restrictions, and position themselves for success on an unsubsidized basis once the deadlines have passed and safe harbor projects are complete.

Given the work that the industry has done to reorient around the OBBBA since July, the tone at RE+ in Las Vegas last week was not one of “doom and gloom,” but of determination. Our industry is highly accustomed to change, and projects still need to be originated, permitted, designed, and built. Make no mistake, the OBBBA poses a threat to generation capacity additions at a time when we need more electrons than ever. Now that it has become law, it’s on the private sector to innovate, execute, and deploy better than ever before.

We’ve provided below a summary of key new policies as they pertain to planned community- and utility-scale solar projects in the United States:

 

New Investment Tax Credit (ITC) guidance

Under H.R. 1, the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) timelines for solar projects were significantly shortened. Before H.R. 1 was enacted, tax credits were anticipated to continue through 2032. While H.R. 1 did not fully eliminate tax credits, it accelerated their phase-out. This unexpected change has presented significant challenges for long-term solar initiatives. H.R. 1’s tight timelines require careful project planning and execution. The new ITC timelines are as follows:

  • Projects that begin construction before July 4, 2026, are eligible for the full 30% ITC, with a four-year window to be placed in service.
  • Projects beginning construction after July 4, 2026, must be placed in service by December 31, 2027, to qualify for any ITC.
  • Solar projects that begin construction after July 4, 2026, and are placed in service after December 31, 2027, are not eligible for the ITC.
  • Storage projects, including those co-located with solar, are eligible for the ITC for projects starting construction before 2033, with a phase-out schedule beginning in 2034.
    • The ITC for storage projects begins phasing down for projects commencing construction in 2034 (75% of the credit) and 2035 (50% of the credit).

 

Additional Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) rules

Building on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), H.R. 1 extends foreign entity of concern (FEOC) restrictions to include additional clean energy tax credits. It also expands the definition and criteria of a FEOC, creating two new FEOC categories: Specified Foreign Entities (SFEs) and Foreign Influenced Entities (FIEs). Both categories are considered Prohibited Foreign Entities (PFEs). Any PFE is an FEOC.

Restrictions apply to SFEs, nations like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, and to FIEs that meet certain ownership or control thresholds or have specific contractual agreements with an SFE. The intent is to reduce U.S. reliance on these nations for clean energy supply chains and to prevent their influence over U.S. energy production.

Beginning January 1, 2026, any project or company deemed an SFE or FIE is not eligible for tax credits. Any project claiming tax credits must adhere to strict source restrictions that limit how much of its materials and components can originate from FEOCs. In other words, projects cannot receive tax credits if they involve “material assistance” from FEOCs, which includes sourcing components or providing financial or licensing agreements that involve these entities.

Projects must adhere to the following material assistance cost ratio (MACR) thresholds:

  • Power facilities (45Y/48E): Minimum domestic sourcing starts at 40% in 2026, rising each year to 60% by 2030.
  • Energy storage: Starts at 55% domestic, rising to 75% by 2030.
  • Solar components manufacturing (45X):
    • Solar components: 50% (2026) → 85% (2030)
    • Inverters: starting at 50%, rising to 70%
    • Battery components: 60% → 85%

Non-compliance with these thresholds disqualifies a project from receiving tax credits.

Projects relying on foreign supply chains face steep penalties or disqualification unless they meet these thresholds. As a result, developers now require deep visibility into their supply chains—specifically, the origins of every component—to certify compliance. Although U.S. solar manufacturers may gain from decreased foreign competition, the implementation of more stringent regulations and unclear eligibility requirements may deter investment and hinder future growth.

H.R. 1’s new provisions raise the bar for domestic content but introduce new complexities, tighten timelines and compliance documentation, and put added pressure on manufacturers and developers. How exactly these rules will be applied remains an open question, and the FEOC restrictions will continue to be a significant area of uncertainty for developers until more guidance is released.

 

New safe harbor guidance

On August 15th, 2025, the Department of the Treasury released new ITC safe harbor guidance that narrowed the definition of “start of construction,” specifically by eliminating the 5% rule for solar projects larger than 1.5MWac.

Around each of the changes to the ITC framework that have occurred since its introduction in 2006, safe harbor strategies have played a key role, providing developers with a path to certainty despite pending changes in the tax regime. This time around, safe harbor tools are more limited, though many developers have successfully safe harbored significant volumes of projects before the September 2nd deadline described below.

Effective September 2nd, 2025, the new guidance is as follows:

  • Projects greater than 1.5 MWac in capacity must use the Physical Work Test path. The 5% rule no longer applies to projects of this size.
    • The Physical Work Test is narrowed and does not include “preliminary activities.” Instead, the project must begin “physical work of a significant nature,” such as on-site construction activities like the installation of racking or other structures, or off-site work of a significant nature, such as the manufacturing of equipment, like certain transformers, that are tailored to the specific facility. Preliminary activities, like permitting or land grading, are not typically considered sufficient.
    • Projects using Physical Work Test are subjected to a continuity requirement in which the project must show a “continuous program of construction,” where the “physical work performed is of a significant nature.”
  • Projects less than 1.5 MWac in capacity (low-output projects) can use the Physical Work Test or the 5% Safe Harbor, in which a project qualifies if it has incurred at least 5% of the total project cost.
  • All projects still have four years to be placed in service under Continuity Safe Harbor.

The new rules apply only to solar facilities whose construction did not begin before September 2, 2025. If a project started construction before this date using the old Physical Work Test or Five Percent Safe Harbor, those old rules still apply. If a project hasn’t started by September 2, 2025, then these tighter rules—including the end of the general 5% Safe Harbor—will govern whether a project meets the July 5, 2026, start of construction deadline.

In short:

  • Started before Sept 2, 2025 old safe harbor rules still apply
  • Start on or after Sept 2, 2025 must follow new Physical Work Test-only rule (except for projects ≤1.5 MWac solar)

 

 A new solar landscape

Despite the hurdles presented by H.R. 1’s becoming law, our industry remains resilient. Solar energy consistently demonstrates its value as a reliable investment and remains the most rapidly deployable source of power generation. And our mission to accelerate the clean energy transition has never been more reinforced; It matters now more than ever.

Ampacity renews its commitment to providing reliable support as the industry adapts to this new solar landscape, ensuring clarity and stability for clean energy progress. We remain agile and dedicated to making clean energy accessible, reliable, and resilient, doubling down on our mission to:

  • Help customers steer clear of permitting hurdles
  • Provide quick design revisions with our expert in-house design and engineering teams
  • Source domestically manufactured material from our partner manufacturers
  • Accelerate deployment with turnkey solar and electrical solutions that reduce lead times and keep projects on schedule
  • Perform physical work in the field
  • Keep supply chains bolstered and ready to move

Now is the time to act and execute. Review your project needs and connect with us to see how we can help maximize the value of your pipeline: https://www.ampacity.com/contact/general-inquiries/

 

 


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or accounting advice. It is not a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified tax advisor, lawyer, or accountant who can address your specific financial situation. Ampacity makes no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information provided. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. Ampacity will not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.

 

SOURCES:

Baker Tilly. “Understanding Foreign Entity of Concern.” Baker Tilly, 2025,
https://www.bakertilly.com/insights/understanding-foreign-entity-of-concern.

Crowell, Chris. “Explainer: New ‘Construction Start’ Definitions for Solar Projects (Notice 2025-42).” Solar Builder Mag, 18 Aug. 2025,
https://solarbuildermag.com/news/explainer-new-construction-start-definitions-for-solar-project-tax-credit-eligibility/.

Misbrener, Kelsey. “Final Budget Bill Advances to the President’s Desk.” Solar Power World Online, 3 July 2025,
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2025/07/final-budget-bill-advances-to-the-presidents-desk-for-signature/.

Misbrener, Kelsey. “Senate Passes Budget Bill without Solar Excise Tax.” Solar Power World Online, 1 July 2025,
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2025/07/senate-passes-budget-bill-without-solar-excise-tax/.

Misbrener, Kelsey.  “SPW Talks with Tax Expert: Utility-Scale Solar Is Not Hit as Bad as You Think.” Solar Power World Online, July 2025,
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2025/07/spw-talks-with-tax-expert-utility-scale-solar-is-not-hit-as-bad-as-you-think/.

“New Treasury Guidance Requires Large-Scale Solar Projects to Use ‘Physical Work Test’ for ITC Safe Harbor.” Solar Power World Online, Aug. 2025,
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2025/08/new-treasury-guidance-requires-large-scale-solar-projects-to-use-physical-work-test-for-itc-safe-harbor/.

Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). “Solar and Storage Industry Statement on Final House Passage of the Reconciliation Bill.” SEIA, July 2025,
https://seia.org/news/solar-and-storage-industry-statement-on-final-house-passage-of-the-reconciliation-bill/.

“Trump Issues Executive Order Instructing Treasury to Tighten Safe Harbor Rules.” Solar Power World Online, July 2025,
https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2025/07/trump-issues-executive-order-instructing-treasury-to-tighten-safe-harbor-rules/.

How do we meet the top needs of our customers as suppliers?

In the latest issue of enerG Magazine, as part of their Ask the Energy Experts feature, Ampacity’s Senior Vice President of Business Development Dylan Wraga was asked, “What are the top three things your customers are looking for from you and other suppliers, and how do you meet those needs?”

Below is his response.

 

At Ampacity, our customers come to us with high expectations, and we meet them by delivering three key things: efficiency, reliability, and accuracy. These qualities drive momentum and value at every stage of the solar value chain.

Efficiency & Optimization: Speed and precision are key to our operations. Our customers rely on us for fast turnarounds and responsive communication that keeps their projects on track. We’re continually evolving to meet the market’s pace by scaling our engineering and operations teams, refining internal processes, and staying ahead of project demands. More than just a product supplier, we offer a full suite of solutions optimized for each site, helping customers move faster and more effectively.

Reliability: We’re in our customers’ corner from start to finish. Whether it’s foundation design or engineering support or simply being available when needed, we build confidence by being a partner they can depend on. Our team and expertise become an extension of their team, especially when timelines are tight and precision is critical.

Accuracy: There’s a lot of nuance in solar tracking systems—and our customers count on us to know the difference between a good fit and the right fit. We bring deep knowledge of the industry’s complexities and translate that into insights they can act on. It’s not just about delivering a number—it’s about delivering the right number and helping our partners make smarter, experience- and data-backed decisions.

 

Learn more about Ampacity’s solutions at https://www.ampacity.com/solutions/

A truncated version of the above was originally published by enerG Magazine, August 14, 2025.

Q&A with Eben Russell on the evolution of Ampacity | Solar Builder Magazine

Original article by Brad Kramer, Managing Editor, Solar Builder, July 28, 2025

 

Earlier this year, RP Construction Services rebranded as Ampacity Renewables. A member of the Quanta Services family of companies, Ampacity specializes in end-to-end structural and electrical solutions with a forward-thinking approach for clean energy projects, and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation.

Eben Russell founded RPCS in 2014, but the business really came of age during COVID. They opened a warehouse operation in Mississippi and started to focus on enabling tracker projects as a value-added distributor instead of always doing it as a “turnkey” installer.

“Our sales have doubled since then,” Russell tells us. “We’ve opened two additional warehouses in the last three years and just celebrated the five-year anniversary of the MS facility back in April. We’ve got a team of over 300 spread out across the U.S.”

The team built a reputation in the industry as a trusted partner with a one-stop-shop approach, and the evolution of the company necessitated a new brand identity. The team selected a well-known industry term — “Ampacity,” defined as the maximum amount of current that a conductor can safely carry — to evoke the concept of electrification and acceleration, as well as to represent the company’s above-and-beyond approach to serving its customers.

I recently spoke to Ampacity founder and president Eben Russell about the name change, the company’s expanded capabilities, and general industry trends. Read on for the rest of my interview with Eben.

 

Eben Russell AmpacityWhy change the company name from RP Construction Services?

Russell: When we first started the company, we were on a mission to sell trackers at a time when very few contractors had experience assembling them. We trained our own crews and filled a key gap in the marketplace. A lot of our customers in the early days were only comfortable buying a tracking system if they knew we would build it for them, so we did.

Obviously, the market has changed a lot over the past ten years, and so have we. We still do a decent volume of installs every year, but today the bulk of our business is value-added distribution. We sell essential solar construction supplies to other contractors and developers. We know how to make our customers successful because we’ve been in their shoes. The way we do things is all about helping steer around the stumbling blocks that every project encounters at one point or another.  We’ve seen it all.

We changed our name to make it easier for the marketplace to understand what we’re about and where we’re going. Our business carries a constant river of metal into our warehouses and out to small solar sites – truck after truck after truck. And we’re going further. Late last year, we started distributing electrical goods in addition to tracker and pile. There’s so much value we can offer because of the level of familiarity we create with each site, and because everything we do is done with the field in mind.

Ultimately, the name ‘Ampacity’ gets right to the core of who we are – a value-added distributor operating at maximum capacity for our customers.

 

What can you tell me about the company’s expanded capabilities?

Russell: In the past 6 months, we’ve focused on building two new areas of the business. First, electrical distribution. We now support customers with wire harnesses, wire management products, MV cable, termination kits, and sectionalizing cabinets. To support this new line of products, we’ve invested in inventory, warehouse space, and value-added services like custom reels and MV kitting.

The second area that we’ve expanded is our service business to support the installed base. When Ampacity started, there was less than 20 GW of operating solar capacity in the US. Now there’s more than ten times that amount, and plants that are five, six, seven years old are needing goods and services to solve performance problems and run safely. We can help.

 

Can you explain Ampacity’s distribution approach? What does that mean for your customers?

Russell: We talk about four things that really make us tick. The first one is expert sales. Our salespeople are not cold callers – they’re product experts and problem solvers. They get deep into drawing sets and geotechnical reports. At Ampacity, sales is about helping customers get to the right answer, not just taking their order.

The second thing that defines our approach is premium goods. We partner with leading manufacturers so that we can offer our customers the highest quality products. The whole business is oriented around “no apology technology”.

Number three is value from design. Our design team makes major design contributions to most of the projects we supply. In some cases, we have an active engineering dialogue with the project owner even if we end up transacting with their contractor at NTP. Applications engineering is core to who we are and how we think about distribution. One of our first things we did in launching our electrical distribution effort was hiring our first electrical designer.

Finally, our commitment to the field sets us apart. The head of our warehouse operations used to be one of our best field superintendents. The head of our electrical warehousing effort spent the bulk of his career on project sites. Everything we do in the warehouse – from pre-kitting tracker rows to overnighting a mission critical part – is about helping crews succeed in the field.

 

What size project are your “bread and butter”?

Russell: Our sweet spot is 1-100 MW, but we usually do a couple projects per year that are larger than that. Because there are usually statutory limits on project size in community solar states, we see a high number of projects under 10 MW. We provided trackers for over 300 projects last year.

 

Where do you see the most opportunity in the solar industry? Is it all about data centers and AI? Are there other areas spiking in the market?

Russell: Data centers and AI are definitely big growth drivers for any business in our sector right now. It boils down to a basic supply & demand problem. There isn’t enough generation for all the load that’s coming – the energy demands of AI infrastructure are staggering and growing exponentially. From a climate perspective, it feels like a bit of a setback, and we’re on a mission to help the industry respond. Speed of deployment is a huge theme, and solar is the best option from that standpoint.

The increase in power demand isn’t just impacting large solar projects. A lot of regulators are searching for ways to reduce the impact of all this additional demand on individuals and small businesses. Keeping rates under control won’t be easy.

One option that keeps gaining traction across the country is community solar.  The community solar frameworks in states like New York and Illinois have been really effective at lowering energy costs for solar subscribers. I think we’ll see several additional markets open up in the next couple years. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see more interest in larger behind-the-meter projects and microgrids as customers try to reduce their exposure to utility rates.

It’s a big moment for entire power & utilities industry. The needs are great, but so are the opportunities. As a supply chain partner, we’re setting ourselves up to move more goods faster and faster so that things go smoothly when all the financing and permitting is done and it’s time to build.

 

What others trends do you see emerging in the solar industry?

Russell: The solar industry is moving at breakneck speed. The pressure is on to deliver projects quickly, accurately, efficiently, and safely. We’re seeing a lot of momentum in the DG space as demand grows and grid constraints tighten. Supply chain challenges are still in play.

Customers need reliable partners who bring expertise and value to their growing portfolios and project pipelines. We collaborate constantly with our customers and mitigate risks through our design capability, manufacturer partnerships, stocking and logistics strategies, and fulfillment operations. Customers want expertise, not just materials, so we help them de-risk projects through better planning, better design, and better execution to stay ahead of the curve.

 

What’s next for Ampacity?

Russell: We’ve already talked about some big growth areas for us. Electrical distribution and services to the installed base will continue to be focus areas for the foreseeable future. There’s also constant evolution in our base business with new tracker products, changing trends, and new players in the space. Our customers rely on us to stay right on the cutting edge of the tracker market, and we do the work that it takes to stay there.

Finally, there’s always more we can do to improve our customers’ experience with us. I’m excited about some of the software projects we have underway to drive customers’ success in the field. At the end of the day, all of our success comes down to passion for creating a better way.

Fast Power: How distributed generation solar is meeting America’s energy demands

How distributed generation solar is meeting America’s energy demands

Published in Solar Power World, contributed by Bri Bruce, Senior Director of Marketing, Ampacity

 

Surging Power Needs

For the first time in decades, demand for electricity is rising – and quickly. From data centers dedicated to artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency to the electrification of domestic manufacturing and transportation, power needs are predicted to rise to new all-time highs. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) reported in a recent study that US electricity demand is projected to grow 50% by 2050, driven by data centers and electrification.

So, how will our nation meet this demand, affordably and quickly?

The answer is not straightforward, and to date, our track record has not been stellar. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), electricity supply has not kept up with demand over the past decade. Electricity prices increased 20% from 2020 to 2023, due to a lack of supply and needed upgrades to America’s transmission and distribution network.

As we navigate a shifting global trade environment, strained supply chains, and the lingering threat of inflation, all eyes are on deployment, both of new generation and the grid infrastructure needed to support it.

 

All-of-the-Above Energy?

The realities of spiking electricity demand has policymakers and investors alike speaking in terms of an ‘all-of-the-above’ energy strategy. Grid operators like PJM have created fast-track interconnection pathways to shore up supply, capacity auctions are sending crystal-clear market signals, and longstanding plans to decommission power plants are being reconsidered.

But while all electrons may serve the same function, different types and sizes of generators face very different timelines. For instance, units 3 and 4 of the Vogtle nuclear plant in Georgia took 15 years to build. Lead times for gas turbines from leading OEMs can stretch more than five years. Coal plants are rarely economic to run, and there are none that are currently in development in the U.S.

Solar and energy storage are lower cost and twice as fast to deploy compared with competing types of generation, but large solar and storage projects still linger for years in choked interconnection queues and permitting processes. How can we make more progress towards adding generation capacity that will meet the moment?

 

Distributed Generation Solar Should be Part of the Solution

Renewables are undoubtedly one of the most rapidly scalable and cost-competitive ways to deliver power. These technologies are quicker to deploy than nuclear or natural gas, and their supply chains are far more robust.

Distributed generation (DG) or “middle market” solar assets, in particular, are a stand-out solution. Because DG projects have a less significant impact on overloaded electrical grids, they spend less time in interconnection queues, providing states with a viable and affordable option for meeting rising energy demands. Solar projects that interconnect with utility infrastructure at lower voltages, such as at most community solar plants, can also help avoid costly upgrades to substations and transmission lines.

Beyond meeting power needs, DG solar projects create jobs in construction, installation, operations, and maintenance, and of course, reduce pollution compared with carbon-emitting generation sources. This strengthens local communities and ensures a healthier environment for generations to come.

 

The Promise of Community Solar

In a few states, community solar farms already provide low-cost clean power and optionality for retail electricity customers at scale. Community solar policy has enabled gigawatts of solar capacity year over year, with a substantial 35% surge in growth in 2024, led by New York, Maine and Illinois. In light of spiking electricity demand and a crisis of affordability across the country, more states are in the process of introducing community solar as an option for their ratepayers.

A recent analysis by the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) highlights the benefits that community solar provides beyond the inherent megawatt hours of clean power. CCSA reports that community solar could unlock more than $120 billion in economic activity nationwide. Each gigawatt (GW) of community solar can support more than 18,000 local jobs and generate $2.8 billion in state economic activity, according to CCSA’s findings.

 

Speed and Efficiency Are Key

Building renewables projects, albeit much faster than other generation sources, is nevertheless quite an undertaking. Navigating real estate and land leases, overcoming permitting hurdles, and managing supply chain issues can all impact how quickly projects are placed into service. That’s why bringing speed, precision, and quality to small-scale and middle-market solar development is so critical.

Although the core components—such as modules, inverters, and trackers—attract the most attention, every aspect of renewable energy project construction can be optimized. For instance, consider the sheer amount of labor it takes to construct even a mid-sized community solar farm. Solutions that simplify fieldwork, streamline construction processes, and can be repeated across full portfolios of small-scale solar projects are critical for accelerating capacity additions.

As demand for power continues to rise, driven by the expansion of data centers and advanced manufacturing facilities, the need for efficient, scalable energy solutions has never been greater. By making small solar projects repeatable and efficient to execute at scale, we can add capacity faster and smarter, meeting growing demand without letting go of our climate goals.

 

 

 

About the Author

Bri Bruce is the Senior Director of Marketing for Ampacity. She joined the company in 2017, and since that time, has led the company’s internal and external marketing functions, shaping the company’s overall strategy while overseeing content creation, digital initiatives, social media, and public relations. She is an unparalleled brand ambassador for Ampacity, executing programming to drive business outcomes, foster customer and partner relationships, and increase market share, while advancing the company’s visibility and reputation.

Ampacity delivers a forward-thinking approach to end-to-end structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects, and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered nearly seven gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems to community and utility-scale solar customers in the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

What the House Reconciliation Bill Means for Solar—and Why Speed Matters Now More Than Ever

Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation bill that poses significant implications for the solar industry.

While the bill still needs to clear the Senate, the version passed by the House signals a sharp turn in how clean energy tax incentives, including the Section 48E Investment Tax Credit (ITC), will be applied moving forward.

The revised language in the bill introduces a much narrower eligibility window for the 48E credit:

  • Projects must begin construction within 60 days of the bill’s enactment, and
  • Must be placed in service by December 31, 2028.

This marks a substantial shift from current law and earlier proposals, which stepped the ITC down over several years instead of immediately. For most projects that are in development, this new timeline poses significant challenges.

 

The Case for Safe Harbor

This bill threatens to pull the rug out from under the solar industry—just as it’s proving its value in relieving grid stress, lowering costs, and creating local jobs.

For developers and EPCs, this bill presents an urgent call to action for safe harbor efforts. Starting construction in time to meet the new 48E requirements is critical—and Ampacity is here to help.

At Ampacity, we’ve supported safe harbor strategies many times before—and we’re ready to do it again. Our team can help you move quickly to execute your safe harbor plans. With our large warehouse footprint, kitting and assembly services, and expertise in electrical and structural systems, we can help you move quickly today to support your success in the future.

 

Our Safe Harbor Strategy

Ampacity’s safe harbor strategy offers flexibility to future projects by focusing on components that are universal—not module- or project-specific. Customers can realize savings by both purchasing solar tracker materials and electrical goods from Ampacity and storing them safely and cost-effectively in Ampacity’s facilities, located in Mississippi, Kentucky, and Iowa, to serve projects nationwide.

Ampacity’s in-house engineering capabilities provide project owners and developers with a competitive edge when planning and purchasing projects in advance to maximize the value of the ITC.

By implementing their safe harbor strategy, Ampacity helps customers minimize risks associated with project or technology changes, guiding purchasing decisions toward components that will retain their value and not become barriers to other BOS selections when the projects are ready to proceed.

 

Our Commitment

Ampacity continues to be your forward-thinking distribution partner, offering more than just materials. We help customers overcome the biggest industry challenges—whether that’s rising demand, grid constraints, labor shortages, or evolving policy.

The House bill may have set a harmful starting point, but there’s still time to shape the outcome—and secure your projects in the process. If this bill becomes law, it will take a strong, coordinated response to protect the role of solar in America’s energy future. We’re in your corner, ready to accelerate what’s next.

 

Need help navigating safe harbor requirements? Contact Ampacity today—we’ll help you keep your projects on track.

 

Ampacity Expands Clean Energy Solutions To Meet Rising Power Demand

From Solar Quarter, by S. S. Dev
February 25, 2025

Ampacity Renewables, formerly known as RP Construction Services, announced at Intersolar & Energy Storage North America 2025 (IESNA 2025) the expansion of its capabilities, products, and services aimed at driving the clean energy transition and addressing the growing demand for power across the United States. The company’s rebranding to Ampacity Renewables reflects its commitment to electrification and efficiency. The term “ampacity” refers to the maximum amount of current a conductor can safely carry, symbolizing the company’s focus on delivering high-performance solutions while accelerating the deployment of clean energy projects.

Eben Russell, said in a statement, “For over a decade, we have served our customers as a trusted partner to support them in completing projects quickly and efficiently. This has resulted in tremendous growth and expansion within the tracker sector. Moving forward, we are leveraging our proven approach, incredible team, and the new Ampacity brand to bring cutting-edge solutions and services to address all industry sectors and all project types. By 2030, U.S. electricity demand is expected to grow 7% from 4,300 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2024 to 4,600 TWh in 2030. Ampacity’s vision is to expand our breadth of solutions and services to meet our nation’s future power needs, sustainably and responsibly.”

“Ampacity is accelerating the energy transition with their value-added, kitted solutions that streamline procurement, reduce customers’ overhead, simplify the work in the field, improve safety, bolster quality, and make work more repeatable and more scalable,” mentioned Duke Austin, President and CEO at Quanta Services.

Ampacity has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry by offering a comprehensive, one-stop-shop approach to solar and energy storage solutions. Customers benefit from a wide range of services, including design solutions, readily available inventory, kitting and pre-assembly, logistics support, post-installation services, and commissioning. By streamlining procurement and installation processes, Ampacity helps reduce overhead costs, improve project timelines, and enhance worker safety.

As demand for clean energy continues to rise, driven by the expansion of data centers and advanced manufacturing facilities, the need for efficient, scalable energy solutions is becoming more critical. Ampacity’s enhanced capabilities position the company as a key player in supporting the growth of distributed generation and utility-scale solar and storage projects, ensuring a more sustainable and reliable energy future.

 

 

About Ampacity

A proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies, Ampacity, LLC (Ampacity) delivers a forward-thinking approach to end-to-end structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects, and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Ampacity is committed to accelerating clean energy for a better future and providing comprehensive solutions that ensure project deadlines are met. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered more than six gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems to customer sites in the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

RP Construction Services rebrands as Ampacity Renewables

From Solar Power World, by Billy Ludt
February 24, 2025

 

Large-scale solar installer RP Construction Services (RPCS) announced during Intersolar & Energy Storage North America that the company is rebranding to Ampacity Renewables. The term Ampacity is defined as the maximum amount of current that a conductor can safely carry.

“For over a decade, we have served our customers as a trusted partner to support them in completing projects quickly and efficiently. This has resulted in tremendous growth and expansion within the tracker sector,” said Eben Russell, founder and president of Ampacity. “Moving forward, we are leveraging our proven approach, incredible team, and the new Ampacity brand to bring cutting-edge solutions and services to address all
industry sectors and all project types.”

The team at Ampacity is carrying over the same services on which RPCS built its reputation: design solutions, on-hand inventory, kitting and pre-assembly, logistics services, post-installation services and commissioning — all from one company. “Ampacity’s vision is to expand our breadth of solutions and services to meet our nation’s future power needs, sustainably and responsibly,” Russell added.

“Ampacity is accelerating the energy transition with their value-added, kitted solutions that streamline procurement, reduce customers’ overhead, simplify the work in the field, improve safety, bolster quality, and make work more repeatable and more scalable,” said Duke Austin, president and CEO at Quanta Services, Ampacity’s parent company.

 

 

About Ampacity

A proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies, Ampacity, LLC (Ampacity) delivers a forward-thinking approach to end-to-end structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects, and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Ampacity is committed to accelerating clean energy for a better future and providing comprehensive solutions that ensure project deadlines are met. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered more than six gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems to customer sites in the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

Ampacity Renewables Ushers in a New Era of Comprehensive Clean Energy Solutions and Project Enablement Services to Meet Growing Power Demand

Introducing Ampacity, formerly RP Construction Services

 

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – Intersolar & Energy Storage North America – February 24, 2025 – Ampacity Renewables, formerly known as RP Construction Services, today announced at #IESNA their significantly expanded capabilities, products, and services designed to catalyze the clean energy industry and meet the nation’s escalating power demand.

The company selected a well-known industry term—Ampacity—defined as the maximum amount of current that a conductor can safely carry, to evoke the concept of electrification and acceleration, as well as to represent the company’s above-and-beyond approach to serving its customers.

The team at Ampacity has built a reputation in the industry as a trusted partner with a one-stop-shop approach. Ampacity customers benefit from a comprehensive offering that includes: design solutions, on-hand inventory, kitting and pre-assembly, logistics services, post-installation services and commissioning—all from one value-added company. Ampacity’s structural and electrical solutions for distributed generation and utility-scale solar and storage projects reduce customers’ overhead and job costs with efficient and streamlined procurement, ensure timely receiving and installation, and increase worker safety.

“For over a decade, we have served our customers as a trusted partner to support them in completing projects quickly and efficiently. This has resulted in tremendous growth and expansion within the tracker sector,” said Eben Russell, Founder and President of Ampacity. “Moving forward, we are leveraging our proven approach, incredible team, and the new Ampacity brand to bring cutting-edge solutions and services to address all industry sectors and all project types.”

Growing power demand, driven by new datacenters and advanced manufacturing facilities, will require more clean energy generation, and, alongside that, strategies to efficiently advance projects. “By 2030, U.S. electricity demand is expected to grow 7% from 4,300 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2024 to 4,600 TWh in 2030,” Russell remarked. “Ampacity’s vision is to expand our breadth of solutions and services to meet our nation’s future power needs, sustainably and responsibly.”

“Ampacity is accelerating the energy transition with their value-added, kitted solutions that streamline procurement, reduce customers’ overhead, simplify the work in the field, improve safety, bolster quality, and make work more repeatable and more scalable,” said Duke Austin, President and CEO at Quanta Services.

 

 

About Ampacity

A proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies, Ampacity, LLC (Ampacity) delivers a forward-thinking approach to end-to-end structural and electrical solutions for clean energy transition projects, and the ability to orchestrate the full process from engineering to kitting to installation. Ampacity is committed to accelerating clean energy for a better future and providing comprehensive solutions that ensure project deadlines are met. Since 2014, Ampacity has delivered more than six gigawatts of fully engineered clean energy systems to customer sites in the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at www.ampacity.com.

 

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for the utility, communications, pipeline and energy industries. Quanta’s comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

 

 

Media Contact: Ampacity

Bri Bruce
Ampacity, LLC
831-620-2188
bbruce@ampacity.com

 

Why Bankability is Crucial in Solar Project Success

Why Bankability is Crucial in Solar Project Success: A Lesson from Fisker Automotive’s Bankruptcy

 

Choosing bankable suppliers is key to the long-term success of your large-scale solar project. As with any major investment in equipment, you need to ensure the manufacturers you rely on have the wherewithal to continue supporting your project even in the face of major financial headwinds.

The risks of procuring products from less established businesses appear in every market for complex capital equipment, and there are cautionary case studies in almost every manufacturing sector. The recent rise and fall of Fisker Automotive provides a perfect illustration for the risks that we continue to see with subscale equipment providers across the solar industry.

Fisker made headlines in the early 2010s as an electric vehicle startup poised to revolutionize the car industry. With bold promises, a sleek design, and significant backing, at times it looked like Fisker had the potential to capture its own slice of the auto industry. Despite its early promise, the company filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, and Fisker owners have been left scrambling to answer basic questions: Will I be able to get parts for my car? Will I be able to get insurance? Who will fix it?

What went wrong? The company never had a financial foundation to support its ambitions. The technology was impressive, the team was experienced, and early adopters were enthusiastic, but the company failed to perform financially. The result? A high-profile crash leaving behind helpless drivers and investors alike.

For utility-scale solar projects lasting 30 to 40 years, the lesson is clear: Your equipment providers need to be financially stable, with the potential not to just meet warranty commitments, but ensure that your plant can access spare parts and technical support for long-term performance.

Bankability means choosing manufacturers, and vendors, with the financial strength to weather market fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and other unforeseen challenges. At RP Construction Services LLC, our business is built to connect solar developers and constructors with bankable equipment. We exist to help great projects get built faster and with less risk, and the only way to do that is to partner with manufacturers that are ready to support their goods for the long haul.

RP Construction Services Now Offering Nextracker

Nextracker

Monterey, CALIF. (February 7, 2023)—RP Construction Services (RPCS) is excited to announce it is now offering single-axis trackers from Nextracker, the trusted global market leader in solar tracking technologies. RPCS will be providing Nextracker products to address the growing U.S. demand for smaller utility-scale solar projects and distributed generation (DG) applications.

RPCS has completed thousands of smaller utility-scale and DG projects, which are typically under 30 megawatts in capacity, and is honored to partner with Nextracker to self-perform their design and stamped engineering with warehousing Nextracker’s NX Horizon™ smart solar trackers. Rapid, accurate, and reliable project designs and pricing are a must for developers who want to execute portfolios of small utility projects and the same is true for EPCs and contractors who can now receive RPCS’ site-specific, pre-kitted, and construction ready Nextracker systems. RPCS delivers design and schedule flexibility that today’s solar power generation industry demands.

“We put solar projects into motion with our full suite of solutions—from turnkey design, supply, and installation support to logistics, preassembly, and onsite training solutions—based on gigawatts’ worth of experience in the market,” says RPCS President Eben Russell. “We are thrilled to partner with Nextracker to offer their best-in-class technology, supported by our innovative project enablement capabilities, to provide an unrivaled degree of support and, ultimately, customer success. Our value-added approach combined with the Nextracker product will maximize every project’s potential and will result in the highest quality operating assets for our customers.”

Nextracker’s flagship platform, NX Horizon™, has been the tracker of choice on more than 90 GW-worth of solar power plants worldwide. This smart solar tracker system helps maximize performance and minimize costs across a broad range of project sites and weather conditions.

“In order to extend our world-class technology to smaller projects and respond to customer demand, we chose RPCS as our highly capable channel partner to address the continued growth in the smaller utility-scale and distributed generation markets,” said Howard Wenger, President at Nextracker. “RPCS’ value lies in its ability to stock, consolidate, and kit material, and provide high quality project execution and training on site—and we’re proud to work with them as a channel partner.”

This new partnership with Nextracker allows RPCS to continue to service its expanding customer base, providing expert services to accelerate and ensure the best value for tracker projects across the country.

 

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, LLC (RPCS) is the nation’s leading value-added distributor of utility-scale solar equipment. RPCS offers the industry’s best solar tracker technologies supported by a suite of project enablement services including design engineering, warehousing and logistics, pre-assembly, and mechanical installation to provide solar EPCs, developers, and utilities with simple, high-performance solar tracking solutions. Since 2014, RPCS has delivered more than 4GW of fully engineered single-axis solar tracking systems to customer sites in more than 41 U.S. states and Canada. Our team currently consists of more than 200 individuals working throughout the United States to accelerate and simplify solar deployment. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com. RPCS is a proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies.

 

About Nextracker

Nextracker is a leading provider of intelligent, integrated solar tracker and software solutions used in utility-scale and distributed generation solar projects around the world. Its products enable solar panels to follow the sun’s movement across the sky and optimize plant performance. With plants operating in more than thirty countries worldwide, Nextracker offers solar tracker technologies that increase energy production while reducing costs for significant plant ROI. For more information, visit Nextracker.

 

 

Media Contacts

Bri Bruce, RPCS
+1 8316202188
bbruce@rpcs.com

Kristan Kirsh, Nextracker
+1.650.814.1273
Kkirsh@nextracker.com

 

Quanta Services Named 2023 Top Solar Contractor by Solar Power World

2023 top solar contractorQuanta Operating Companies Collaborate to Achieve Solar Industry Top Spot and Historic Milestone

HOUSTON – July 25, 2023 Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR) announced today that it has been named the top solar infrastructure solutions provider in the United States by Solar Power World. This achievement was made possible by the collaborative work of three Quanta operating companies: Blattner Company, RP Construction Services (RPCS) and The Ryan Company. The combined expertise and efforts of the three companies installed more than two gigawatts of domestic solar generating capacity in 2022 alone – a new milestone of achievement in Top Solar Contractor history.

Duke Austin, Quanta Services’ President and Chief Executive Officer said, “Being named Top Solar Contractor is an honor and tells part of the bigger story of how we are working to build a brighter and cleaner energy future for the country. To achieve a reduced-carbon economy, we must actively collaborate to drive the shift toward renewable and sustainable energy solutions.”

Quanta’s renewable energy infrastructure solutions powers modern life, and with its more than 200 operating companies, Quanta is building, modernizing and maintaining energy infrastructure across North America and Australia. Powerhouse renewable energy engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) solutions provider, Blattner Company, was acquired by Quanta in 2021 and during its history has constructed more than 25 percent of the utility-scale renewable energy generating capacity in the United States. The Ryan Company provides EPC construction solutions for photovoltaic (PV) solar, wind and other renewable generation industries, as well as electrical infrastructure, substations and large-scale public sector construction services. RPCS is one of the nation’s leading value-added distributors of utility-scale solar equipment.

“We are incredibly honored to be part of Quanta’s standout solar team,” said Brett Beatty, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Blattner. “This award is a testament to the hard work, talent and dedication of our more than 4,000 employees working at our renewable energy project sites across the country. They are the reason we’re part of this top solar team. We applaud all of the solar contractors that made the list this year.”

“Renewable energy accounts for a quarter of U.S. electrical generation, now far exceeding electricity produced by burning coal,” said Kelsey Misbrener, managing editor of Solar Power World. “Solar power is an important member of that renewable makeup, and companies on the Top Solar Contractors List are all contributing to our country’s shift to cleaner electricity. We are honored to recognize them each year for their necessary work putting green kilowatts on roofs, over parking lots, in desert locations and across water reservoirs. Every project is making a difference.”

 

About Top Solar Contractors

The Top Solar Contractors List is the most recognized annual listing of solar contractors in the United States working in the utility, commercial, residential and community solar markets. Companies on the Top Solar Contractors List are grouped and listed by specific service (developer, electrical subcontractor, EPC, installation subcontractor, installer, sales partner), market (commercial, community solar, residential, utility) and states by 2022 installed capacity (in kWDC). See all the 2023 winners, including special company awards.

 

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for the utility, renewable energy, communications, pipeline and energy industries. Quanta’s comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

 

About Blattner Company

Blattner is Leading America to a Clean Energy Future. With more than 115 years of construction experience, the company has played a vital role in building America’s critical infrastructure. Since 1997, Blattner has focused on renewable energy solutions and is responsible for some of the most significant solar, wind, and storage projects in the U.S. Blattner Company and its operating subsidiaries, Blattner Energy and D.H. Blattner & Sons, are all members of the Quanta Services family of companies. Blattner Company headquarters are in Avon, Minnesota.

 

About RPCS

RP Construction Services (RPCS) is a leading value-added distributor of utility-scale solar equipment. RPCS offers top solar tracker technologies supported by a suite of project enablement services including design engineering, warehousing and logistics, pre-assembly, and mechanical installation to provide solar EPCs and developers with simple, high-performance solar tracking solutions. Since 2014, RPCS has delivered more than 4GW of fully engineered single-axis solar tracking systems to customer sites in over 40 U.S. states and in Canada. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com. RPCS is a proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies.

 

About The Ryan Company

Established in 1949, The Ryan Company, Inc. specializes in providing single service or turn-key EPC construction for PV solar, wind, and renewables, as well as industry leading electrical infrastructure, substations and large-scale public-sector construction services. The Ryan Company has completed hundreds of electrical utility projects in the past 60+ years throughout the United States and the Caribbean and is a member of the Quanta Services family of companies. Learn more at RyanCompany.net

 

About Solar Power World

Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, Solar Power World has helped U.S. solar contractors — including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets — grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

 

Cautionary Statement About Forward-Looking Statements and Information

This press release (and oral statements regarding the subject matter of this press release) contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the “safe harbor” from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the development of and opportunities with respect to future projects, including renewable energy projects and other projects designed to support transition to a reduced-carbon economy, as well as statements reflecting expectations, intentions, assumptions or beliefs about future events, and other statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance; rather they involve or rely on a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict or are beyond our control and reflect management’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements are made. We caution you that actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecasted by our forward-looking statements and that any or all of our forward-looking statements may turn out to be inaccurate or incorrect. Forward-looking statements can be affected by inaccurate assumptions and by known or unknown risks and uncertainties including, among others, risks and uncertainties detailed in Quanta’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, Quanta’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 and any other documents that Quanta files with the SEC. For a discussion of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors are urged to refer to Quanta’s documents filed with the SEC that are available through Quanta’s website at www.quantaservices.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval System (EDGAR) at www.sec.gov. Should one or more of these risks materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are current only as of this date. Quanta does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Quanta further expressly disclaims any written or oral statements made by any third party regarding the subject matter of this press release.

RP Construction Services Expands Distribution & Logistics Arm, Opens Kentucky Warehouse

KentuckyLouisville, Ky. (June 23, 2023) — MDH Partners today announces the lease-up of Park 65 Business Center, a 260,000-square-foot distribution center located at 100 Brooks Way in Louisville, Kentucky. The firm originally purchased the facility in 2019 when it was 30% leased. RP Construction Services (RPCS) has leased the remaining 180,000 square feet. Robert Walker and Greg Charmoli with Cushman & Wakefield represented the Landlord.

“Park 65 Business Center had the largest existing vacancy of any of our assets in our Fund 1 portfolio,” said Raymond Hill, Vice President of Asset Management at MDH Partners. “We’re thrilled to have reached our goal of full occupancy as RCPS expands its distribution and logistics arm. We look forward to watching them grow to reach new heights of success.”

The new facility will accommodate RPCS’ growing selection of solar tracker inventory and allow the company to augment its single-axis tracker kitting and pre-assembly operations. Louisville’s proximity to suppliers and solar markets in the eastern United States will support RPCS’ continued ability to offer best-in-class lead times to its EPC and developer customers. RPCS’ Louisville facility begins operations this month.

“This larger space allows us to be more creative with our kitting solutions and stay ahead of the enormous demand that we see in our industry,” says Wesley Allen, Senior Director of Supply Chain and Logistics Execution (SCALE), RPCS’ division that oversees warehousing and distribution efforts. “As utility solar project pipelines continue to shift and grow, we are supporting our customers with a smarter, more flexible single-axis tracker design and procurement solution. Their success is our success.”

 

Read the full press release here: https://www.citybiz.co/article/433400/mdh-partners-completes-lease-up-of-louisville-kentucky-distribution-center/

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, LLC (RPCS) is the nation’s leading value-added distributor of utility-scale solar equipment. RPCS offers the industry’s best solar tracker technologies supported by a suite of project enablement services including design engineering, warehousing & logistics, pre-assembly, and mechanical installation to provide solar EPCs & developers with simple, high-performance solar tracking solutions. Since 2014, RPCS has delivered more than 4GW of fully engineered single-axis solar tracking systems to customer sites in more than 41 U.S. states and Canada. Our team currently consists of more than 200 individuals working throughout the United States to accelerate and simplify solar deployment. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com. RPCS is a proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies.

RP Construction Services Acquired by Quanta Services

rpcs quanta servicesMonterey, CALIF. (April 13, 2023) — RP Construction Services, LLC (RPCS) is excited to announce that it has been acquired by Quanta Services, Inc. (Quanta), a Houston-based Fortune 300 company and industry leading specialized infrastructure solutions provider to the utility, renewable energy, communications, pipeline and energy industries. Now as part of Quanta, RPCS believes it can accelerate its growth and enhance its ability to continue serving the solar industry with best-in-class engineered equipment and support services. The transaction advances RPCS’ long-term strategy of delivering value to its customers, employees, and partners as well as the communities in which the company operates.

“We are extremely excited to join the Quanta family of companies and continue building upon our unique offering to the solar industry,” says Eben Russell, Founder and President of RPCS. “Our proven ability to remove complexity, time and risk from solar projects combined with Quanta’s leading infrastructure solutions, safety and performance culture will make us a better partner than ever for our employees, customers and vendors.”

The acquisition of RPCS strengthens Quanta’s existing infrastructure solutions platform that enables the transition towards a lower-carbon economy. “RPCS offers a unique approach to accelerating and de-risking utility-scale solar projects and we are excited to support their future innovation and growth as part of Quanta,” says Andrew Schwaitzberg, leader of energy transition initiatives at Quanta Services. “RPCS’s capabilities address some of the industry’s biggest challenges head on and they are a strategic complement to Quanta’s existing renewable solutions.”

As a Quanta operating company, RPCS will continue to rely on its fundamental passion for safety, service, ingenuity and human potential that has guided the company. These same values are captured by Quanta’s mission statement: People are at the core of everything we do. RPCS is thrilled to have such strong cultural alignment with its new parent company.

RPCS will operate independently under the Quanta umbrella and there will be no change in management or departmental structure, with Eben Russell continuing his role as President.

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, LLC (RPCS) is the nation’s leading value-added distributor of utility-scale solar equipment. RPCS offers the industry’s best solar tracker technologies supported by a suite of project enablement services including design engineering, warehousing & logistics, pre-assembly, and mechanical installation to provide solar EPCs & developers with simple, high-performance solar tracking solutions. Since 2014, RPCS has delivered more than 4GW of fully engineered single-axis solar tracking systems to customer sites in more than 41 U.S. states and Canada. Our team currently consists of more than 200 individuals working throughout the United States to accelerate and simplify solar deployment. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com. RPCS is a proud member of the Quanta Services family of companies.

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services, Inc. is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for the utility, communications, pipeline and energy industries. Quanta’s comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

2022 In Review

What a year it’s been!

 

To say that 2022 was a prolific year would be an understatement. And just as in years past, this year has been RPCS’ best yet, with the numbers to prove it.

  • 1,297 MW Completed
  • 258 Projects
  • 31 States

In an industry continuing to see supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, price volatility, and tariff uncertainty—not to mention continued pandemic-related distresses—RPCS relied on strategy, namely the company’s unique ability to enable solar tracker projects through design engineering and logistics capabilities. Innovative, tech-enabled work practices persisted to give RPCS an excellent advantage over competitors and allow us to support customers in the design, engineering, and material supply scopes and at all stages of a project.

RPCS secured a steady standing among the nation’s leading design-build firms, earning the No. 27 spot in the Power market of the 2022 Top 400 Contractors survey list by Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine, the company’s first year ranking on the list.

Solar Power World magazine recognized RPCS’ installation success by ranking the company at No. 11 overall on the 2022 Top Solar Contractors list. In addition to RPCS’ overall rank, the company also ranks No. 3 in the Installation Subcontractor category and No. 11 in the Utility Installation Contractor category, as well as No. 1 in Kansas, No. 2 in Illinois, No. 3 in New Mexico, and No. 6 in our home state of California.

We navigated and continue to chart the choppy waters of the ITC and IRA. Thanks to an unprecedented move from our current administration that provided a 24-month lift on duties related to solar imports, we marched on.

We continued to grow as a company while establishing additional locations to strengthen the foundations of sales and product management. We opened a new sales and marketing operations office in Tampa, Florida, and expanded our logistics capabilities by opening a new facility in Louisville, Kentucky, upping our capacity to kit projects and building on the total support we offer our customers and partners.

RPCS Announces East Coast Expansion with Florida Office

RPCS Announces East Coast Expansion with Florida Office

 

[Monterey, CALIF.] December 21, 2022 — RP Construction Services Inc. (RPCS) announced this week the opening of a new office in Tampa, Florida.

This new office will be a hub for the company’s business development, marketing, and sales operations, with team members representing our data analytics, marketing, sales, software development, and customer success teams.

“We’re really excited about bringing our team into one location to move some of our more important customer-facing initiatives forward,” says Alex Smith, Chief Sales Officer. “There are several projects that we have been working on that will enhance our customer’s experience and allow RPCS to provide our partners with incredible insight into their project pipelines in various stages: development, estimating, engineering, pre-construction, and construction. Most of our customers deploy national portfolios and we are always improving the way we offer them visibility and predictability on their utility projects.”

The Tampa office plans to host a grand opening reception in the New Year.

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) provides turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPCs, developers, and utilities. As the nation’s leading contractor and single-axis tracker expert, RPCS helps customers meet their renewable energy goals with simple, seamless project execution. RPCS combines a team-oriented culture that values all employees with innovative, tech-enabled work practices to deliver projects of all sizes on-spec and on-time. RPCS has approximately 300 employees and is headquartered in Monterey, California, and maintains facilities in California, Mississippi, and Florida. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

RP Construction Services Named ENR’s No. 27 Top Contractor in Power Sector

enr top contractor[Monterey, CALIF.] September 26, 2022 —Another incredible year of growth helped California-based solar contractor RP Construction Services (RPCS) secure a steady standing among the nation’s leading design-build firms.

RPCS earned the No. 27 spot in the Power market of the 2022 Top 400 Contractors survey list by Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine, the company’s first year ranking on the list. In 2021, RPCS completed approximately 200 projects totaling more than 930 megawatts with continued growth throughout 2022.

In an industry bogged down by supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, price volatility, and tariff uncertainty—not to mention pandemic-related shutdowns—RPCS relied on strategy, namely the company’s unique ability to enable solar tracker projects through design engineering and logistics capabilities. Innovative, tech-enabled work practices give RPCS an excellent advantage over competitors and allows them to support their customers in the design, engineering, and material supply scopes and at all stages of a project.

 

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) provides turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPCs, developers, and municipal utilities. RPCS is the nation’s leading contractor and single-axis solar tracker expert with projects successfully completed in more than 40 U.S. states and Canada, helping customers meet their renewable energy goals with simple, seamless project execution. RPCS currently employs a team of more than 250 individuals actively working on numerous construction job sites, in multiple warehouse locations, in our Monterey, California, headquarters, and in regional sales offices throughout the nation. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

RP Construction Services Takes No. 11 on the 2022 Top Solar Contractors List

top solar contractor[Monterey, CALIF.] July 26, 2022 — Despite concerns over supply chain interruptions and tariff investigations, the U.S. solar industry saw record solar and energy storage demand in 2021. RP Construction Services can attest to this, having one of its busiest years yet. Solar Power World has recognized the company’s installation success by ranking RPCS at No. 11 overall on the 2022 Top Solar Contractors list.

The Top Solar Contractors list is developed each year by industry magazine Solar Power World to honor the work of solar installers in the United States. Solar firms in the utility, commercial and residential markets are ranked by number of kilowatts installed in the previous year. Companies are grouped and listed by specific services, markets, and states.

In addition to RPCS’ overall rank, the company also ranks No. 3 in the Installation Subcontractor category and No. 11 in the Utility Installation Contractor category, as well as No. 1 in Kansas, No. 2 in Illinois, No. 3 in New Mexico, and No. 6 in our home state of California.

RPCS completed nearly 200 projects totaling over 930MW of solar power in 2021. To date, the company has completed more than 3.5GW, providing turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPCs, developers, and municipal utilities. Headquartered in Monterey, California, RPCS employs approximately 250 team members and maintains facilities in California, Mississippi, and Kansas.

“It’s an honor to again be included on the Top Solar Contractors List, surrounded by so many great companies,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith. “Thank you to all of the solar companies we work for and to every member of the RPCS team for making the transition to renewable energy a reality.”

 

 

About RP Construction Services

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) provides turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPCs, developers, and municipal utilities. As the nation’s leading contractor and single-axis tracker expert, RPCS helps customers meet their renewable energy goals with simple, seamless project execution. RPCS combines a team-oriented culture that values all employees with innovative, tech-enabled work practices to deliver projects of all sizes on-spec and on-time. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

 About Solar Power World

Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, SPW has helped U.S. solar contractors — including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets — grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

 

 

Media Contacts

RP Construction Services
Bri Bruce, Director of Marketing
831-620-2188
bbruce[at]rpcs.com

Solar Power World
Kelly Pickerel, editor in chief
216-860-5259
kpickerel[at]wtwhmedia.com

 

Roundtable Discussion with Solar Power World: “Designing for Next-Generation Technologies: Utility-Scale Trends”

Designing for Next-Generation Technologies: Utility-Scale Trends

 

RPCS’ CEO and Founder Eben Russell with join Solar Power World and other Top Solar Contractors for a roundtable discussion on the best business practices the installation community has adopted for the utility-scale market.

The utility-scale solar market may seem like an assembly line of tried-and-true installation methods, but most of the industry’s technology advances first arrive on our largest projects. Large-format and bifacial solar modules are tested on new trackers and hooked up to more powerful inverters every day. Utility-scale contractors will talk about how they keep abreast on the latest technology designs while building successful projects with a shrinking ITC.

 

utility-scaleLive Roundtable

With RP Construction Services, Inovatues, McCarthy Building, and Renu Robotics

Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT

REGISTER HERE

Energix, RPCS Partner to Complete over 90MW of Solar Tracker Projects

EnergixMonterey, CALIF., April 20, 2021 — RPCS has partnered with Energix for the installation of trackers at three of Energix’s solar projects, Hollyfield II (17MW), Mt. Jackson (22MW), Buckingham II (28MW), and Leatherwood (25MW), and intends to collaborate on two additional projects, totaling approximately 50MW.

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and one of the state’s leading solar energy players, Energix US, LLC, is an independent power producer that develops, constructs, owns and operates renewable energy projects. Energix is the subsidiary of an Israeli publicly traded company Energix – Renewable Energies Ltd. (TASE:ENRG), the largest renewable energy company in Israel, with a portfolio of more than 3.4GW, including more than 400MW in commercial operation.

RPCS, a trusted partner of leading solar tracker manufacturer Array Technologies, Inc., will be installing Array’s DuraTrack HZ v3 single-axis solar tracker for Energix’s three projects. Array trackers keep the solar PV modules following the sun on its course throughout the day, optimizing energy gains and ensuring up to a 20 to 25 percent increase in energy production over fixed-tilt systems.

“We are so thrilled to work with Energix on their Virginia portfolio and to support their growth in the U.S.,” says Alex Smith, Chief Sales Officer of RPCS. “Itamar and his team are exceptional partners and we share their focus on delivering the highest quality projects. We’re looking forward to Energix’s continued success and are honored to have the opportunity to be their partner.”

“We are proud to partner with RPCS in the goal of delivering more clean energy to the Commonwealth of Virginia and see this partnership as another milestone in our commitment to the US market,” says Itamar Sarussi, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Energix. “Energix procures the vast majority of our equipment and construction work here in the U.S., in keeping with our goal to create local jobs and benefits for the communities where we operate, and to fulfill our vision as a breakthrough global green utility, committed to our future on the planet.”

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) provides turnkey design, structural engineering, procurement/supply, mechanical installation, and specialty services to EPC contractors, developers, and municipal utilities. As the nation’s leading contractor and single-axis tracker expert, RPCS has completed more than 700 projects, totaling over 2GW, and helps customers meet their renewable energy goals with simple, seamless project execution. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or learn more at stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

Energix uses its financial stability and extensive project experience to build projects that create long-term value for local communities, landowners, stakeholders and the environment. Energix currently has more than 80MW in commercial operation in the US, with another 1GW of renewable energy projects currently in construction or development across the US.  For more information visit www.energix-group.com.

 

 

2020 in Hindsight: A Year in Review

It goes without saying that this year saw unprecedented challenges and many changes. Yet despite setbacks felt worldwide, solar surged forward in a big way, growing over 22% through the coronavirus pandemic and continuing to lead the way to a clean energy future. Solar not only persevered in 2020 but thrived. For this, we’re incredibly grateful and humbled.

It is because of the continued dedication and hard work of its leadership and team members and the support of our customers and partners that RP Construction Services had another landmark year.

With a record number of projects and installed capacity in 2020, RPCS continued its rapid growth trajectory, outpacing the industry and remaining one of the nation’s leading contractors.

RPCS completed its scope on over 1GW spanning over 230 projects in 20 states—a 57% increase in number of projects and a 134% increase in capacity over 2019 numbers. To date, RPCS has completed over 700 projects and more than 2GW.

Here’s a look back at some of the year’s highlights.

 

RPCS is unique for its people and its process. At the center of its accomplishment, RPCS not only expanded its team significantly but continued to elevate and invest in these team members through training, development, and new individual opportunities within its workforce. RPCS is always striving to create career paths and opportunities that allow each member to shine individually. RPCS’ team grew stronger, realized the value of improved collaboration, and how to better serve the utility market—the driving force behind solar’s explosive growth this year.

Beyond welcoming new members and expending efforts on training and development, RPCS took its project delivery system to the next level. RPCS announced in May the opening of a new logistics facility in Kosciusko, Mississippi, now the third facility operated by the company. The facility rests on ten acres, comprised of two warehouse facilities and a stocking yard spanning 100,000 square feet. The facility includes two solar arrays for demonstration and training purposes. In addition to added supply chain enhancement, the new facility will ensure greater inventory accuracy and improved deployment of both materials and serviced equipment and tools.

This new facility led to enhanced kitting and streamlined project delivery, further attesting to RPCS’ ability to effectively manage multiple simultaneous projects across the country. RPCS’ experience as the market’s first contractor in the utility space to pre-kit the Array tracker significantly streamlines assembly of the Array tracker while assembly remains quality controlled by RPCS’ Array tracker experts. Moreover, by using innovative technology specialized for project delivery, RPCS helps ensure critical timelines are met and the highest quality standards are maintained. This delivery process provides accurate project insights in real time, improves project economics, and creates a high degree of visibility into all stages of the installation process. Stay tuned as RPCS begins to allow other contractors, subcontractors, and installers access to this delivery system.

Among other notable achievements was the company’s recognition as a Top Solar Contractor for the third year in a row by Solar Power World Magazine, the industry’s leading resource for news and information regarding solar PV installation, development, and technology. RPCS achieved a rank of No. 13 overall, out of more than 400 solar firms. RPCS also ranks at No. 5 in the Installation Subcontractor category and No. 11 in the Utility Subcontractor category, as well as No. 1 in Arkansas, No. 5 in South Carolina, No. 7 in California, No. 8 in Colorado, No. 11 in North Carolina, among other top state rankings.

A number of RP Construction Service’s 2021 projects are already breaking ground. The solar industry, according to experts, is poised to see a “wild ride” in 2021, and RPCS is at the forefront, prepared for brighter days ahead.

 

CONTENT HIGHLIGHTS:

 

Follow the Sun: A Look at the Benefits of Tracking Technology
If you’re not already tracking, here’s why you should:
READ MORE >

One Bifacial Module or Two? In-Depth Performance Analysis of 1MIP Versus 2MIP on Single-Axis Solar Trackers
2MIP doesn’t mean twice the output. Here’s why:
READ MORE >

Bifacial Modules + Solar Trackers: 1MIP vs. 2MIP on Single-Axis Solar Trackers
In case the above article didn’t answer all your questions of why 1MIP is superior to 2MIP when tracking, here’s more:
READ MORE >

RPCS and Indiana Municipal Power Agency Partner to Complete over 85MW of Solar Tracker Projects
READ MORE >

Continental Energy Solutions Podcast with Tim Montague
RPCS Director of Marketing Bri Bruce talks bifacial module technology, solar trackers in 1MIP versus 2MIP, and the “power couple” that is RPCS and Array Technologies, Inc.
READ MORE >

Solar Arrays to be Installed for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems
RPCS will provide mechanical installation services for Today’s Power, Inc. Project
READ MORE >

RPCS and Knobelsdorff Partner for a 17MW Portfolio
This portfolio will supply 14 communities in Minnesota with clean, renewable energy:
READ MORE >

RP Construction Services to Build 185MW Pflugerville Solar Project in Travis County, Texas
RPCS will perform the mechanical installation:
READ MORE>

Hailstorms + Solar Trackers: All Hail the DuraTrack HZ V3 Single-Axis Solar Tracker from Array Technologies
There’s only one choice in technology when deploying solar trackers in regions with inclement weather—specifically hailstorms, which are arguably the most damaging—and this is why.
READ MORE>

Array Technologies Announces a 1GW Purchase Agreement with RP Construction Services
Array Technologies partners with leading design-build contractor to bring advanced solar tracker technology to the distributed generation market:
READ MORE >

 

Array Technologies announces a 1GW purchase agreement with RP Construction Services

Partnering with Leading Design-Build Contractor to Bring Advanced Solar Tracker Technology to the Distributed Generation Market

 

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – 30 November 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY) (“Array”) today announced it has entered into an agreement to supply 1GW of DuraTrack® HZ v3 single-axis solar trackers to RP Construction Services, Inc. (“RPCS”). RPCS provides design-build services for small and medium-sized ground-mounted solar energy projects across the U.S. and is the leading contractor for solar energy projects under 25 MWs.

“The endorsement of the segment-leading contractor for distributed energy projects underscores both the strength of our product offering and the value our trackers can create for projects of all sizes. The small-utility, municipal, medium-sized commercial and community solar markets are growing rapidly, and collaborating with RPCS to address this segment of the market should further accelerate our growth in the U.S.  I am also pleased that this order follows on the Lightsource bp purchase agreement announced earlier this month making it the second order over 1 GW that we have received in the past 30 days” said Jim Fusaro, Chief Executive Officer of Array.

“We are incredibly excited about expanding our relationship with Array. They have the best system in the marketplace in terms of ease of installation, reliability, and durability. We have more than tripled the size of our company with their products over the past three years, and we look forward to continuing that growth with this agreement,” said Eb Russell, Chief Executive Officer of RPCS.

 

About Array Technologies, Inc.
Array Technologies is a leading global technology company providing tracker solutions and services for utility-scale solar energy projects as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of ground-mounting systems. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers a lower levelized cost of energy. The Company’s focus on innovation, combined with its customer-centric approach, has helped achieve some of the industry’s best returns. Array Technologies is headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Central America, and Australia. Contact us at arraytechinc.com or view our LinkedIn page.

About RPCS
RPCS provides turnkey design and installation services for ground-mounted solar energy projects in the U.S. with a focus on the distributed generation market. The Company has completed more than 700 projects, representing 2 GW of generation capacity, since 2015. RPCS combines a team-oriented culture that values all employees with innovative, tech-enabled work practices to deliver projects of all sizes on-spec and on-time. RPCS has approximately 250 employees and maintains offices in California, Mississippi and Texas. Connect with RPCS on LinkedIn or view our website at stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

 

See the original press release published on Array Technologies’ website: https://arraytechinc.com/1gw-purchase-agreement-with-rpcs/

 

 

Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward looking statements. These statements are not historical facts but rather are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections regarding its business, operations and other factors relating thereto. Words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “anticipate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar expressions are used to identify these forward looking statements. These statements are only predictions and as such are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward looking statements as a result of a number of factors.

Texas’ Pflugerville Solar Project Commences Construction

RP Construction Services to Build 186MW Pflugerville Solar Project in Travis County, Texas

 

MONTEREY, Calif., November 5, 2020— Recurrent Energy is pleased to announce construction of the Pflugerville Solar Project near Austin, Texas is well on its way.

pflugerville
The first posts of the Pflugerville solar project are installed by RPCS.

Developed by Recurrent Energy, the 186MWdc project in Travis County, Texas, will span nearly 950 acres. Signal Energy is directing the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) activities of the project. Under this direction, RP Construction Services (RPCS) will perform the mechanical installation and E Light Electric (ELE) will perform the low voltage electrical installation. RigUp is supplying skilled labor to both RPCS and ELE. The project will create more than 350 construction jobs, half of which will be performed by local labor. Operation and maintenance of the power plant will also support permanent, long-term jobs.

pflugerville
The 186MWdc Pflugerville Solar Project in Travis County, Texas

The project will feature DuraTrack HZ V3 single-axis solar trackers from Array Technologies, installed by RP Construction Services. The tracker technology will keep the solar PV modules following the sun on its course throughout the day, optimizing energy gains and ensuring up to a 20 to 25% increase in energy production over fixed-tilt systems.

“We’re happy to be bringing in local labor to help us build this great project,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith. “For decades, people who live nearby will be able to tell their friends and neighbors about how they helped make this project so successful. Thanks to all the great teams involved.”

Once operational, the Pflugerville Solar Project is expected to power the equivalent of nearly 27,000 Austin-area homes, providing low-cost solar power to Austin Energy’s customers for 15 years. The project will help cost-effectively reduce emissions and support the utility’s plan to exit from coal-fired power generation by the end of 2022.

The project is slated to be completed in the summer of 2021.

 

See Recurrent Energy’s news release.

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) is a leading solar tracker project design, supply, and installation subcontractor based in Monterey, California. The team specializes in site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. With nearly two gigawatts completed throughout the US, RPCS’s experience in the ground mount utility and distributed generation market ensures reliable support at every step of the project, delivering an unmatched level of quality and efficiency. To learn more about RPCS or to request a quote, visit stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

Recurrent Energy is a leading utility-scale solar and storage project developer, delivering competitive, clean electricity to large energy buyers. Based in the U.S., Recurrent Energy is a wholly owned subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc. and functions as Canadian Solar’s North American project development arm. Recurrent Energy has approximately 5 GW of solar and storage projects in development in the U.S. Additional details are available at www.recurrentenergy.com.

Signal Energy, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., is a leading full-service design/build contractor providing engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for utility-scale renewable energy projects. Signal Energy is the renewable energy subsidiary of EMJ Corporation. For more information, visit www.signalenergy.com.

RigUp is a full-service provider of skilled labor. Through people and technology, we match our vetted, hand-picked workers with the companies who need them. We manage everything from recruiting and payments to compliance, training, and beyond. We’re committed to creating economic opportunity for our workforce by building a better way to get work done. Learn more at www.rigup.com

RPCS Ranks No. 13 on 2020 Top Solar Contractors List

RPCS Ranks No. 13 on 2020 Top Solar Contractors List

MONTEREY, CALIF., July 21, 2020—Solar Power World released today the 2020 Top Solar Contractors list. The list recognizes California-based solar contractor RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS)’s installation efforts, and ranks the company at No. 13 overall, out of more than 400 solar firms. RPCS also ranks at No. 5 in the Installation Subcontractor category and No. 11 in the Utility Subcontractor category, as well as No. 1 in Arkansas, No. 5 in South Carolina, No. 7 in California, No. 8 in Colorado, No. 11 in North Carolina, among other top state rankings.

The Top Solar Contractors list is developed each year by Solar Power World to honor the work of solar installers big and small. Solar firms in the utility, commercial and residential markets are ranked by number of kilowatts installed in the previous year. Companies are grouped and listed by specific service (developers, electrical subcontractors, EPCs, installation subcontractors, rooftop installers), markets and states.

“The Solar Power World team is so pleased to highlight more than 400 companies on the 2020 Top Solar Contractors list, especially during this unprecedented time,” said Kelsey Misbrener, senior editor of Solar Power World. “All contractors featured on the 2020 list reported strong 2019 installation numbers and are continuing to stand tall this year.”

The first quarter of 2020 was the country’s biggest ever, with 3.6 GW of new solar capacity added. But COVID-19 impacts showed their force in Q2, and Wood Mackenzie is forecasting residential and non-residential markets will see 25% and 38% decreases in year-over-year installation volumes this year.

RPCS continues to persevere through this turbulent time in history, and is seeing its best year yet despite the solar industry’s facing unprecedented challenges amidst the global coronavirus pandemic.

“We know that so many industries, companies, and families are facing economic uncertainty in the US in 2020,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith, “and we are so grateful for the opportunity to do solid work in a growing industry. We work harder every year because we have this great opportunity and we don’t take it for granted when so many others are struggling to hang on.”

Headquartered in Monterey, California, RPCS employs nearly 200 team members, providing leading design, supply, and installation services for utility-scale projects throughout the United States. RPCS is proud to continue their contribution to the country’s clean energy mix.

 

 

About RP Construction Services, Inc.
RPCS designs, supplies, and builds utility-scale ground mount solar projects. With more than 500 completed projects throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support, including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker supply, foundation post procurement, and complete mechanical installation. As a trusted partner of leading solar tracker manufacturer Array Technologies, RPCS’s history, experience, and product knowledge provides customers with a trusted choice for seamless portfolio execution. 

About Solar Power World
Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, SPW has helped U.S. solar contractors — including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets — grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

  

Media Contacts

RPCS
Bri Bruce, Director of Marketing
831-620-2188
bbruce[at]rpcs.com

Solar Power World
Kelly Pickerel, Editor in Chief
216-860-5259
kpickerel[at]wtwhmedia.com

RPCS and Indiana Municipal Power Agency Partnership to Complete Over 85MW of Solar Tracker Projects

RPCS and Indiana Municipal Power Agency Partnership to Complete Over 85MW of Solar Tracker Projects

 

Indiana Municipal Power Agency(MONTEREY, Calif.) JUNE 16, 2020 – RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) and the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA) have partnered to build a number of solar tracker projects to supply communities throughout the state of Indiana with clean, renewable solar energy.

IMPA is the wholesale power supplier to 61 public power communities in Indiana and Ohio, providing a diverse portfolio of power resources in a low-cost, reliable, and environmentally responsible manner for its communities and their customers. IMPA has taken on the role of developer and EPC and will receive 100% of the power production from these solar projects, all characteristics that make the organization unique and contribute to their ability to complete projects smoothly and efficiently for the benefit of the IMPA member communities.

RPCS and IMPA have worked closely over the last several years on a number of projects, forming a deep trust and true partnership. From 2018 to 2020, RPCS has helped IMPA design, supply, and build the racking posts and tracker system at 17 of IMPA’s solar parks, comprising nearly 85 megawatts throughout Indiana.

“RPCS is pleased to again be working with IMPA in 2020 on a number of projects that will help supply their communities with reliable, clean energy,” says RPCS Sales Director Blaz Ruzic.

The projects will all feature the DuraTrack HZ V3 solar trackers from Array Technologies.

“RPCS has been an excellent partner on our solar park projects,” commented Emily Williams, Project Manager for IMPA. “Their design capabilities, installation expertise for the tracker systems, and ability to meet our tight construction schedules has made a very positive impact on our projects.”

IMPA leveraged RPCS’s stocking services to Safe Harbor solar tracker components for the portfolio of projects completed in the second half of 2019 and leading into 2020. This allowed IMPA and RPCS to collectively achieve impressive engineering, supply, and installation lead times, in addition to nearly doubling IMPA’s installation capacity. The efforts of RPCS’s on-site crew also proved timely and efficient, installing the tracker systems for IMPA’s projects ahead of schedule, all while navigating and conquering field challenges encountered during construction.

“The solar market is a very fast paced environment which consistently requires a high level of trust and intensive collaboration across all trades and suppliers involved,” says Ruzic. “IMPA has been an esteemed client for RPCS due to their deep understanding of the solar development life cycle and their key emphasis for relationship-driven, long-term partnerships. IMPA’s team chemistry, detailed organization, and constant real-time communication has been, and continues to be, a crucial strength.”

RPCS looks forward to their continued partnership with IMPA in the year ahead.

 

 

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) designs, supplies, and builds utility-scale ground mount solar projects. With more than 500 completed projects throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support, including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker supply, foundation post procurement, and complete mechanical installation. As a trusted partner of leading solar tracker manufacturer Array Technologies, RPCS’s history, experience, and product knowledge provides customers with a trusted choice for seamless portfolio execution. For more information, visit stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

The Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA) is the not-for-profit wholesale power provider to 61 cities and towns in Indiana and Ohio who own and operate the municipal electric distribution systems in their communities. IMPA member communities deliver electric service to approximately 340,000 individuals throughout the state.  For more information, visit www.IMPA.com.

RPCS Strengthens Partnership with Today’s Power, Inc. in 2020 Pipeline

today's powerMONTEREY, Calif., February 27, 2020—RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) has strengthened their partnership with electric cooperative subsidiary Today’s Power, Inc. (TPI) by announcing their 2020 pipeline of projects to be built in TPI’s home state of Arkansas.

The projects, totaling more than 5MW DC, will be supplied and installed in partnership with RPCS.  All will feature DuraTrack® HZ v3 single-axis solar trackers by Array Technologies. Array’s mounting technology keeps the modules following the sun on its course throughout the day, ensuring up to a 20 to 25% increase in energy production over fixed-tilt systems.

Today’s Power, a wholly owned subsidiary of Little Rock-based utility service cooperative Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), will receive RPCS’s turnkey service and support throughout the design and installation processes.

 today's powerThe newly established 2020 pipeline comes in the wake of recently completed projects built under the RPCS-TPI partnership, including the Fayetteville East and Fayetteville West projects in Fayetteville, Arkansas, totaling over 11MW. These TPI projects include the first solar-coupled battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the Mid-South, and the largest solar array on municipal land in Arkansas.

Other projects, namely those for the City of Paris, Arkansas, and for Southland Gin, a cotton gin, will soon be underway and are expected to be completed in the spring and summer, respectively, of 2020. The 1MW Southland Gin project, which will be owned and operated by Today’s Power, will consist in part of a DuraTrack HZ v3 single-axis tracking system, and will offset the power costs of the gin and through net metering. The array will also feature on-site battery storage, using battery backups for power savings during peak demand, reducing the load on the overall system.

“It has truly been a great pleasure working with Today’s Power,” says RPCS Sales Director Patty Thornton. “The knowledge they bring to the table coupled with the speed and accuracy that they complete the projects is beyond a five-star rating. RPCS is looking forward to building on the partnership we established in 2019.”

 

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) is a leading solar tracker project design, engineering, and installation subcontractor based in Monterey, California. The team specializes in site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. With more than 360 projects and 1 gigawatt completed throughout the US, RPCS’s experience in the ground mount utility and distributed generation market ensures reliable support at every step of the project, delivering an unmatched level of quality and efficiency. To learn more about RPCS or to request a quote, visit stgrpcs.wpengine.com.

Today’s Power, Inc. (TPI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), a Little Rock-based utility service cooperative owned by 17 Arkansas electric distribution cooperatives.  TPI is one of the nation’s most experienced renewable energy companies with more utility-scale projects than any Arkansas-based company.  TPI is a full-service provider able to carry out all phases of any solar or battery storage project including, but not limited to, full bill / rate analysis, site evaluation, engineering procurement, design, commissioning, monitoring operating and maintaining projects.

AECI provides full line hardware to the utility sector, vendor managed inventory services, utility construction services, vegetation management services, high voltage testing and safety services, and is one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of micro, single phase and three phase transformers through its ERMCO brand.

 

RPCS Welcomes Mario Colecchia as Senior Structural Engineer

mario colecchiaRP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) is pleased to welcome Mario Colecchia as Senior Structural Engineer

 

Mr. Colecchia joins RPCS from AZTEC Engineering Group, where he was previously a structural engineer.

As Senior Structural Engineer, Mario Colecchia will provide structural engineering assessments, calculations and stamped designs to comply with applicable codes, as well as manage and oversee engagement with geotechnical firms to gather needed field level data and generate geotechnical studies.

Working closely with the RPCS sales team, project managers, and field crews, Mr. Colecchia’s role in analyzing geotechnical reports or onsite issues related to foundations will help identify solutions and keep projects running smoothly. Mr. Colecchia will help contribute to the overall strategic initiatives of the company to help RPCS continue to maintain its reputation for quality and as an innovative, solution-oriented design-build installation company.

Mario Colecchia is a Professional Structural Engineer with over 20 years of experience designing a variety of structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, overhead sign structures, and PV trackers and foundations. For several years before joining RPCS, he worked as a consultant designing foundations for hundreds of RPCS projects. In total, Mr. Colecchia has worked designing and engineering hundreds of RPCS projects, as well as leading projects across the country.

Mr. Colecchia earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from Princeton University in 1992 and his Master of Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1994. He is accomplished in the application and interpretation of the AASHTO/ACI/AISC/IBC/NDS design codes and local agency design guidelines. Although most of the projects he has worked on are in the United States, he has international experience as well, including in Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, and the Middle East.

Mr. Colecchia is a former Adjunct Professor of Structures at Essex County College where he taught an introductory class in steel, concrete, and timber design emphasizing LRFD to sophomore-level college students. In addition to giving lectures, his responsibilities included developing the curriculum, preparing lessons, and creating exams. He currently teaches the Structures session of a review course for engineers preparing to sit for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. His teaching experience began at Princeton University where, as a teaching assistant, he led a class that introduced engineering concepts to liberal arts students and reviewed papers for publication.

“After several years of working with RPCS as a consultant, it’s great to be able to join the team I most enjoyed serving,” Mr. Colecchia says. “I hope to continue to provide RPCS and their customers the results they’ve come to expect. I am excited to focus entirely on RPCS’s customers!”

 

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. designs and builds ground mount solar projects. With over 360 projects and more than 1GW completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for solar tracker projects, including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker supply, foundation post procurement, and complete mechanical installation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188.

 

2019 In Review

For RPCS, 2019 has been a banner year.

The California-based solar project design and installation firm completed well over half a gigawatt in 2019 alone—an increase of more than 200% over 2018—and more than 200 projects in 19 different states. To date, RPCS has completed over one gigawatt of projects in 32 different states and Canada.

At the center of their accomplishments this year, RPCS successfully tripled its workforce, welcoming new staff members to help the company expand further into new regions and focus on building larger projects. The hiring of new staff required attention to training and development efforts to allow RPCS to grow safely, without compromising the company’s stellar reputation for quality.

“Employees are the most important asset in our organization,” says RPCS Executive Vice President of Operations Brendan Teague. “That’s why we believe in investing in their safety and development, both of which are foundational to continuing our success in the solar industry.”

RPCS expects the team to continue to evolve, innovate, and refine in the coming year as their pipeline for 2020 takes shape.

Earlier in the year, RPCS began offering customers a stocking services option with the opening of two locations in California and Texas, an endeavor that has already proved advantageous since its initiation in January. Bringing stocking operations in-house gives RPCS added levels of predictability, efficiency, and reliability to their business operations. RPCS is able to control the delivery schedule and material accuracy, eliminating schedule impacts as well as overall inefficiencies.

RPCS concurrently implemented their Safe Harbor strategy to help project developers, financers, and owners take advantage of the highest possible solar investment tax credit rate for projects built in the coming years. Their strategy allows customers to realize savings and maximize ROI by both purchasing materials directly from RPCS as well as storing them safely and cost effectively in RPCS’s storage facilities to serve projects nationwide—safeguarding project pipelines prior to the stepdown of the ITC to 26% beginning in 2020.

 

Among other notable achievements was the company’s recognition as a Top Solar Contractor for the second year in a row by Solar Power World Magazine, the industry’s leading resource for news and information regarding solar PV installation, development, and technology. RPCS achieved a rank of No. 15 overall out of 415 solar companies, moving up on the list from No. 18 the previous year. RPCS holds the reigning position in the state of Georgia at No. 1, in addition to being ranked the No. 15 Utility Contractor, the No. 4 Installation Subcontractor, and the No. 11 Contractor in their home state of California.

RPCS celebrated their landmark year by giving back, increasing involvement in charitable initiatives, namely helping fundraise for eReaders for the solar-powered SEGA Girls School in Tanzania, Africa, and donating to the efforts of the Youth Sports Alliance in support of RPCS Sales Director Jay Miles, whose daughter fights Leukemia with the help of the organization’s Utah chapter.

 

“This is such a great time to be part of RPCS,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith, reflecting on the year’s successes. “We’ve been adding top talent to our team, building larger and more exciting projects, and we continue to innovate and improve the way companies design and build their single axis tracker projects. We’re very lucky to have such a strong team and a brilliant CEO leading the way.”

 

RPCS’s 2020 forecast is bright, with a number of projects scheduled to begin in early 2020, continuing their momentum and putting the company on schedule for another prolific year ahead.

RP Construction Services, Inc. Surpasses 1GW Milestone

California-based solar project design and installation firm RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) is proud to announce their completion of more than 1GW of solar projects.

 

For RPCS, 2019 was a record year. The company completed well over half a gigawatt in 2019 alone—an increase of more than 200% over 2018—and more than 200 projects in 19 different states.

“We’re thrilled to reach this gigawatt milestone—almost 400 projects of hard work and great memories, with many more to come,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith.

Installing both individual projects and national portfolios, RPCS continues to establish itself as a relationship-based company focused on long-term partnerships—with customers, partners, and employees alike.

“The numbers are fun to celebrate, but the meaningful part is that our company has grown to well over 150 individuals, all dedicating their careers to our single focus of being the best team in the solar industry. In the next five years, we’ll see our numbers grow even more because our focus won’t ever change,” says Smith.

Headquartered in Monterey, California, RPCS provides leading turnkey design, engineering, and installation services for ground mount solar projects throughout the United States. The team specializes in site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. RPCS’s experience in the ground mount utility and distributed generation market ensures reliable support at every step of the project, delivering an unmatched level of quality and efficiency.

Despite market holdup due to the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and the stepdown of the solar investment tax credit, RPCS successfully grew its pipeline for 2019, 2020, and 2021. Early this year, RPCS began offering customers a stocking services option with the opening of two locations in California and Texas, an endeavor that has already proved advantageous since its initiation in January. Bringing stocking operations in-house gives RPCS added levels of predictability, efficiency, and reliability to their business operations. RPCS is able to control the delivery schedule and material accuracy, eliminating schedule impacts as well as overall inefficiencies.

Concurrently, RPCS implemented their Safe Harbor strategy to help project developers, financers, and owners to take advantage of the highest possible ITC rate for projects built in the coming years. Their strategy allows customers to realize savings by both purchasing solar tracker materials directly from RPCS as well as storing them safely and cost effectively in RPCS’s storage facilities to serve projects nationwide.

Among other notable achievements this year was the company’s recognition as a Top Solar Contractor for the second year in a row by Solar Power World Magazine, the industry’s leading resource for news and information regarding solar PV installation, development, and technology. RPCS achieved a rank of No. 15 overall out of 415 solar companies, moving up on the list from No. 18 the previous year. RPCS holds the reigning position in the state of Georgia at No. 1, in addition to being ranked the No. 15 Utility Contractor, the No. 4 Installation Subcontractor, and the No. 11 Contractor in their home state of California.

“Its’ an exciting time. The industry is thriving,” says RPCS CEO Eben Russell. “We feel a forever shift has happened, that a world that runs on renewable energy is now a matter of when, not if. Our team, at every level, continues to have enthusiasm to evolve, innovate, and refine. To our customers, vendors, and especially our employees, both past and present, thank you!”

With 2020 on the horizon, the company remains more committed than ever to advancing the growth of solar energy—for the next gigawatt and beyond.

RP Construction Services, Inc. designs and builds ground mount solar projects. With over 360 projects and more than 1GW completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for solar tracker projects, including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker supply, foundation post procurement, and complete mechanical installation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

Looking Back at Solar Power International 2019

We’re looking back at our time at this year’s Solar Power International in Salt Lake City, Utah, and all we have to say is . . . WHAT A SHOW! Here’s a brief recap of the week’s highlights.

With more than 19,000 attendees from across the renewable energy spectrum, this year’s show was RPCS’s most exciting yet. The company, nearing it’s five-year anniversary, celebrates over 360 projects and nearly 1GW of solar completed.

“We love going to these shows,” says Alex Smith, RPCS’s Chief Sales Officer. “We do so many projects rapid-fire throughout the year that we don’t often get a chance to just stop and catch up with our customers and vendor partners. This year’s SPI was fantastic, lots of smiles and talk about making next year even better than this one.”

SPI run with the sunAhead of the show’s start, RPCS members participated in the Run with the Sun 5K on Monday, spending the morning with 1,000 of their fellow solar friends. It was an exciting start to the week, with waterfalls and inclines leading to a spectacular sunrise over Salt Lake City.

RPCS Top Solar ContractorOn Monday night, RPCS was among the honorary guests in attendance at the Top Solar Contractors Gala, hosted by Solar Power World, where they were presented with an award for achieving a rank of No. 15 overall on the Top Solar Contractors list. Among their other rankings, RPCS placed No. 1 in the state of Georgia, No. 15 Utility Contractor, No. 4 Installation Subcontractor, and No. 11 Contractor in their home state of California.

On Tuesday morning, RPCS joined Array Technologies in booth 1627 as their trusted partner and to once again show their support for the world’s leading and most reliable solar tracker. Visitors caught a demo of the DuraTrack HZ v3 solar tracker in action, topped with bifacial modules.

RPCSThroughout the show, there was lots of talk about RPCS’s Safe Harbor strategy with the end of the year–and the phase out of the solar investment tax credit–on the horizon. Earlier this summer, RPCS detailed their Safe Harbor strategy to allow project developers, financers, and owners to benefit from this year’s ITC rate. Their industry-leading stocking position will enable customers to build more projects and handle portfolio execution with more flexibility, all while leveraging the ITC and plan for projects in the coming years. RPCS is helping customers secure the highest tax credit rate while minimizing risks from project or technology changes. Check out our post on our Safe Harbor strategy for more information.

 

If you didn’t have a chance to come by the booth, reach out to our team at info@rpcs.com or join our mailing list to stay up to date on our future announcements and event schedule!

 

 

RPCS Named Top 10 Renewable Energy Services Company of 2018

Top 10 Renewable Energy Services Companies[Monterey, Calif.] January, 22, 2019—RP Construction Services Inc. (RPCS) is proud to announce their ranking as a Top 10 Renewable Energy Services Company of 2018 by Energy CIO Insights, an international publication that cumulates the latest technology, opinion, analysis, and discussion of the most predominant issues in the field of energy.

RPCS is featured in the magazine’s annual edition on “Renewable Energy.” Energy CIO Insights’ selection panel evaluated a magnitude of renewable energy consulting and services companies, focusing on their ability to assist and consult in overcoming the challenges and complexities in the renewable energy industry. Energy CIO Insights also received nominations from subscribers for the feature, most of whom are senior executives in the energy industry. The final contributor to the selection process is a select advisory panel of directors and C-level executives of enterprises utilizing the services of renewable energy consulting and services companies. RPCS’s rank was achieved by the company’s recent growth in the utility solar sector, as well as its expansion into new states throughout the nation and into Canada.

Energy CIO Insights selected RPCS as a top renewable energy services company because of its position as being at the forefront of providing unmatched turnkey design and installation services to top U.S. solar companies. RPCS employs 66 workers, in addition to local temp labor, who installed 165,777 kW of solar power in 13 states in 2017, topped by the completion of 231,000 kW and 96 projects in 2018. In the last few years, the company has installed over 550,000 kW of solar in 27 states and in Canada.

RPCS Award
RPCS awarded with Top 10 Renewable Energy Services Company certificate

RPCS is the distributed generation and utility markets’ provider for Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single axis tracker projects. As Array’s trusted partner, RPCS provides complete turnkey project design and mechanical installation services, and installed systems harness energy gains up to 25% higher than fixed tilt systems. RPCS’ deep history and product expertise of the DuraTrack HZ system provides customers with a trusted choice for flawless execution and repeatable success of single axis tracker projects.

RPCS is working with some of the most respected names in the solar industry, and takes pride in establishing lasting relationships with partners. The team has demonstrated the ability to build numerous different projects simultaneously in multiple states and locations, further establishing their commitment to advancing the growth and future of renewable energy.

 

See our ad in Energy CIO Insights Magazine

See Our Feature Article

 

 

RPCS designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single-axis tracker. With over 550 MW and over 260 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels Array’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

City of Atkinson, Nebraska, Partners with GenPro Energy Solutions, RPCS, and TerraSmart to Build Innovative Solar Array on Former Fill Site

genpro rpcs
City of Atkinson site in November 2018, nearing completion.

MONTEREY, Calif. January 8th, 2018—RPCS is pleased to announce their partnership with GenPro Energy Solutions and the City of Atkinson to build a 209kW solar array in Nebraska.

The city formerly used the Atkinson-owned site for fill, a place where soil, trees, and debris were brought then covered with dirt. Because of the nature of the site, project construction initially saw particular challenges. With embedment depths up to 30 feet—three times the norm—needed for proper installation of the foundation, using longer than normal I-beams would have added significant costs for construction and material. Moreover, loose soil and debris could cause refusal of the post for a regular piledriver.

The City of Atkinson wanted a tracked system that could provide enough energy to offset the energy consumption of their Water Treatment Plant. Through NPPD’s Buy-Sell Solar Rider, Atkinson can create long-term cash flow for the city through the production of solar energy.

Project developer GenPro Energy Solutions, who specializes in municipal solar development throughout the Midwest, brings design and custom energy solution integration expertise to the project while RPCS helped drive a creative solution to a complex engineering issue.

The site features DuraTrack HZ v3 single-axis solar trackers by Array Technologies, supplied by RPCS, Array’s DG partner. Array’s mounting technology keeps the modules following the sun on its course throughout the day, ensuring up to a 20 to 25% increase in energy production over fixed-tilt systems. RPCS designs and installs Array tracker systems throughout the country, with hundreds of projects completed to date in the utility and distributed generation markets.

plug-n-play solar tracker
The site features RPCS’s Plug-N-Play solar tracker system for above-ground wire management.

The project uses TerraSmart‘s innovative ground screw foundation posts, a seamless solution to the challenging nature of the site’s subsurface conditions. TerraSmart’s ground screws have a better ability to resist uplift than I-beams in loose soil and can drill into debris, reducing upfront construction costs and eliminating subsurface risks.

“This project is a great example of how teamwork, engineering, and innovative solutions can help overcome site challenges and result in the most efficient design for all parties involved. GenPro’s value engineering, Array’s superior grade tolerance, and TerraSmart’s unique foundation posts all allowed for a system that will maximize power production for the City of Atkinson,” says RPCS Sales Director Dylan Wraga. “There were underground challenges that TerraSmart’s solution was well suited to, and combined with Array’s reliable architecture this system will be producing clean power for many years to come.”

“It is exciting to come up with a unique solution for a site that has an ideal location in relation to the facility we’re looking to power,” says Molly Brown, GenPro’s VP of Energy Production. “The ability to use Array trackers with TerraSmart ground screws will allow us to maximize production on what would normally be considered a difficult site. It’s a very exciting project to be a part of.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place this week onsite on January 10th at 10am.

 

 

RP Construction Services (RPCS) designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single-axis tracker. With over 550 MW and over 250 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world-class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels Array’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188.

GenPro Energy Solutions is the unparalleled choice for solar development and EPC services in Nebraska. From project concept through construction, our NABCEP certified team supports you through every stage of your project. GenPro has served the Nebraska market since 2007 and recently expanded their offices and warehouse to Central City, Nebraska. GenPro has earned their reputation for expert, reliable services and providing the highest quality of craftsmanship in Nebraska and nationwide. GenPro was founded in 2003 in Rapid City. Since day one, GenPro always strived to exemplify the core principles of integrity and best-in-class service. With GenPro’s rapid growth, new talent from inside and outside the industry sector was added to address the ever-changing energy market needs.

Statewide Renewable and RPCS Build 1.2MW Solar Site in South Texas

RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) and Texas EPC Statewide Renewable announce the completion of a 1.2 MW solar site in southern Texas.

McAllen Ranch, the home of this new solar site owned by Los Faroles, LLC, is one of the oldest continuously owned tracts of land in the United States. The ranch has been owned by the McAllen family since 1791, an original Spanish land grant.

RPCS and Statewide broke ground on the project in late May after the McAllen family expressed their goal to generate revenue from their land while also maintaining its purity. In addition, high overhead of ranch operations necessitated a search for cost mitigation, but paramount to cutting costs was preserving the historic land.

Statewide Renewable successfully negotiated a power purchase agreement (PPA) with local utility Magic Valley Electric Coop (MVEC) on a 20-year basis. MVEC is particularly interested in this project as a pilot. Along with other Texas utilities, MVEC wants to engage renewables as a way to alleviate costs, hedge market volatility, and provide members with clean, renewable energy.

The site utilizes Array Technologies’ DuraTrack HZ v3 single-axis solar trackers, procured and installed by RPCS, Array’s trusted DG partner. Array’s mounting technology keeps the modules following the sun on its course throughout the day, ensuring up to a 20 to 25% increase in energy production over fixed-tilt systems. RPCS designs and installs Array tracker systems throughout the country, with hundreds of projects completed to date in the utility and distributed generation markets.

The site also features RPCS’s Plug-N-Play Solar Tracker system, which integrates Array’s single-axis tracker, Shoals Technologies’ electric balance of systems wiring solutions, and the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped (CAB Solar) above-ground messenger wire cable management system. This system significantly simplifies tracker project install by reducing trenching by 50%, utilizing less specialized labor, and requiring less time—all resulting in faster time to completion and CAPex savings.

“Richard and Tomas have been excellent partners at every step of this project and we are really excited to work with them again. We’re very proud of the finished site and the McAllen Ranch has been a beautiful and special place to work,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith.

The project’s solar trackers can deliver large amounts of energy late in the afternoon when MVEC is battling high demand at peak hours. Temperatures in this region of Texas often reach 100 degrees in the afternoon, and power demand peaks at a very high level.

Statewide Renewable is working with partners like RPCS to further their commitment to helping commercial, industrial, educational, and property development sectors in reducing energy costs while also reducing their carbon footprint.

“If our system is successful both in delivering energy and in capturing accurate data, we will be able to not only enlarge this system but be able to offer it to utilities and large private entities throughout the State of Texas,” says Statewide Renewable CEO and Founder Richard Estrada.

“Texas has the largest solar resource in the country and Texans are putting it to good use for reliable cost-competitive power,” said Charlie Hemmeline, executive director of the Texas Solar Power Association. “With large-scale solar projects in development in more than 70 counties across the state, we expect solar power to be an increasing contributor to our Texas electricity portfolio for years to come.”

The McAllen family believes that solar energy is the favorable method to reducing costs, and utilizing land to offset expenses and generate additional revenue while also preventing the degradation of their land. “Our goal is to sustain this land through many generations by caring for its resources,” states the McAllen Ranch website (www.mcallenranch.com).

Wildlife on McAllen Ranch is a valued resource. Hunting happens very conservatively, and wildlife health and growth throughout the year is monitored closely. “Preserving nature and wildlife is not only our duty as landowners, but it also ensures there will be a ranching business for future generations,” the website states.

McAllen Ranch was the proud recipient of the 1996 BBU Environmental Award. Many details of its livestock operation include strategies to help the wildlife coexist and flourish, including pasture rotation and providing abundant watering areas in remote regions of the property.

McAllen Ranch is one of the oldest existing ranches in the United States in continuous ownership. Historically, the ranch was mainly used to raise cattle, horses, and sheep.  The grasslands of the lower Rio Grande River valley, where the ranch is located, is perfectly suited to support cattle and other grazing livestock. Today, the ranch continues to breed quality livestock and entertains hunting guests from all over the world.

 

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single axis tracker. With over 500 MW and over 225 projects completed throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels Array’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188.

Statewide Renewable provides clients with the finest renewable energy solutions.  This is achieved through a meticulous process of listening to the client, researching the finest technology available, and pairing the two with our vetted finance partners.  Statewide Renewable does all of this to show clients this is the time for the commercial, industrial and educational sectors to look at new ways to reduce their energy costs while also reducing their carbon footprint.  For more information about Statewide Renewable, please visit statewiderenewable.com or (512) 796-1719

 

VIDEO: Our Time at InterSolar North America 2018

This year’s InterSolar North America trade show, which was the 11th InterSolar North America exhibition, saw both new and industry leading innovators and their products and services, and a myriad of key solar and storage players. There were many exciting and engaging conversations happening at the Array Technologies’ booth, which dominated the third floor exhibit hall lobby at the Moscone Center in the heart of San Francisco.

As Array’s trusted partner, RPCS showed their support in the booth, where there was an in-depth demo of the DuraTrack HZ v3 solar tracker, topped with both bifacial modules and First Solar Series 6 modules. RPCS shared their year’s many successes, including reaching a recent milestone: 225 projects and 450MW completed.

 

Read more about our time at InterSolar North America 2018 at https://www.ampacity.com/intersolar-north-america-2018/.

RPCS, Array Technologies, CAB Solar, and EBoS Leader Shoals Technologies Group Partner to Bring Streamlined Approach to Solar Project Installations

MONTEREY, CALIF. July 26, 2018 – RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) is pleased to announce their new partnership with solar balance of systems leader Shoals Technologies and CAB Solar, launching their latest turnkey product offering, the Plug-N-Play Tracker system.

This union will bring an even more streamlined approach to RPCS’s solar tracker installations, providing custom designed wiring solutions for projects using the Array Technologies, Inc., DuraTrack™ HZ V3 solar tracker.

The Plug-and-Play Tracker features the Array Technologies DuraTrack™ HZ v3 single-axis tracker, Shoals Technologies’ electric balance of systems wiring solutions, and the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped (CAB Solar) above ground, messenger wire cable management system.

Considered the next evolution in their recognized turnkey solution, RPCS is combining best-in-class American-made products from the industry’s top manufacturers to optimize cost, labor, and installation for tracker projects nationwide.

plug-n-play rpcsThis exciting new partnership is aimed at simplifying tracker project install by reducing trenching by 50%, utilizing less specialized labor, and requiring less time—all resulting in faster time to completion and CAPex savings. Shoal’s patented wiring systems come pre-labeled and pre-tested, demonstrating their unmatched efficiency and robust construction. Coupled with RPCS’s established reputation for turnkey success, this new system will eliminate the need for trenching within the array, reduce risk and complications associated with cost, lessen environmental influence, and improve trade coordination, creating faster, simpler installations. The Plug-N-Play Tracker approach also allows for more solar panels per string and fewer combiner boxes per site, cutting cost and solar electrical complications.

Founded in 1996, Shoals Technologies revolutionized solar installations. With solutions second to none in the marketplace, Shoals’ solar PV electrical balance of systems products are installed in some of the largest solar fields around the world.

plug-n-play trackerThrough innovation and diversification, Shoals has grown exponentially since its founding, and currently holds the largest market share of electric balance of systems, maintaining a diverse portfolio of PV balance of systems products manufactured in Tennessee. Shoals Technologies’ unmet reliability and performance is backed by their extensive in-house testing and rigorous quality controls, making them an ideal partner for RPCS’s next in line turnkey solution.

“We’re really excited to be working with Shoals on our projects,” says Alex Smith, RPCS Chief Sales Officer. “RPCS is constantly striving to make project management easier and to allow our customers to win more projects and trust that the RPCS portion will be executed cleanly. Shoals wiring allows us to do that, as do Array trackers. We can provide a faster installation, a better price, and completely reliable products and project schedules that make executing tracker projects as easy or easier than fixed tilt.”

CAB Solar, the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped’s solar products division, pioneered the use of above ground cable management in grid-scale solar plants and has continually provided innovative designs and systems to meet customers’ needs. The newly released Integrated Grounding Cable Management System uses a copper composite messenger wire and specialized hardware for grounding and is safety listed by Intertek to UL 2703. For over 85 years, their various products routinely exceed the most stringent quality standards demanded by respected national and international customers.

“CAB systems integrate well with both Array and Shoals, and RPCS is very knowledgeable in how to maximize CAB’s benefits. We are excited about the potential,” says Tim Wedding, CAB Solar Project Manager.

Array Technologies, Inc. is the leading solar tracking solutions and services provider for utility-scale projects. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers the best project returns in the industry. As the chosen tracker for more than 25 GW years of energy production, Array’s products have been optimized through unparalleled experience garnered over nearly three decades.

plug-n-play rpcsRP Construction Services designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single-axis tracker. With over 400 MW and over 225 projects completed throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels Array’s market reputation.

“We are excited to partner with RPCS and are glad to support the highly optimized approach to solar construction that RPCS is taking by integrating a great family of products,” says Kent Miller, Shoals Technologies Senior Vice President of Sales, of the Plug-N-Play Tracker. “Combining above-ground wire management from CAB Solar Products, the Array Technologies tracker, and the Shoals wire management system is going to help developers and EPCs by providing a schedule-friendly and easier-to-maintain system.”

“As an electrical guy at the core, there is nothing better than a wireway that is accessible. RPCS’s installation, in combination with the Shoals wiring system, Array’s solar trackers, and the CAB Solar hangars, the installation process is smooth and keeps wires away from unknown underground conditions,” says Adam Larner, RPCS’s Vice President of Projects.

Through this latest offering, RPCS will be a single point of contact for design, engineering, installation, and procurement. From factory floor to field installation, RPCS makes tracker projects even simpler with the Plug-N-Play Tracker.

Together, RPCS, Shoals, and CAB provide customers the next evolution in solar tracker systems, making solar energy a more affordable, lower risk source of clean power for future generations.

 

 

RP Construction Services, Inc. designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 Single-Axis Tracker. With over 300 MW and over 180 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels Array’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

Shoals Technologies Group is a leading manufacturer of balance of systems solutions. Consistently providing customers with innovative designs and superior quality products has contributed to the company’s exponential growth since its founding in 1996. With over 25 GW of BOS products deployed globally, Shoals maintains a diverse portfolio of solar balance of systems products, including, combiner/re-combiner boxes, disconnecting combiner boxes, custom harnessing solutions, junction boxes, wire, in-line fuses, racking and monitoring solutions. Learn more at www.shoals.com.

Array Technologies, Inc. is the leading solar tracking solutions and services provider for utility-scale projects. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers the best project returns in the industry. As the chosen tracker for more than 25 GW years of energy production, Array’s products have been optimized through unparalleled experience garnered over nearly three decades. Array Technologies is headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Australia. For more information, please visit arraytechinc.com.

Cambria County Association for the Blind & Handicapped is the manufacturer of CAB Solar Cable Management Systems. CAB Solar pioneered the use of above ground cable management in grid-scale utility plants and has continually provided innovative designs and systems to meet customers’ needs. CCABH unites vocational training and a manufacturing business producing quality products that offers employment for persons with disabilities while ensuring worldwide customer satisfaction. For over 85 years, their various products routinely exceed the most stringent quality standards demanded by respected national and international customers. From mops and rugs to cable hangers, hooks, and reflective safety garments, through the years the Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped has manufactured a wide range of useful items. Learn more at www.cabproducts.com.

 

 

 

 

RPCS Recognized as a 2018 Top Solar Contractor

The Solar Power World Top Solar Contractor List Includes Monterey-based Solar Firm

 

[Monterey, Calif.] July 24, 2018—More than 10,600 megawatts of solar power were installed last year in the United States, and local installer RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS) has been recognized by Solar Power World magazine for its contributions to the industry.

 

RPCS achieved a rank of 18 out of 450 solar companies on the magazine’s 2018 Top Solar Contractors list. RPCS is also the No. 18 Utility Solar Contractor, No. 3 Solar Installation Subcontractor, and the No. 8 California Solar Contractor.

 

The Top Solar Contractors list is developed by Solar Power World to recognize the work completed by solar contractors across the United States. Produced annually, the Top Solar Contractors list celebrates the achievements of U.S. solar developers, subcontractors and installers within the utility, commercial and residential markets, and ranks contractors by kilowatts installed in the previous year. The 2018 list was released on July 24.

Solar Power World is very excited about the 2018 class of Top Solar Contractors,” said Kelly Pickerel, editor in chief of Solar Power World. “Our 2017 list showed impressive installation numbers after 2016’s huge rush to meet ITC requirements, and many companies were hesitant to show unavoidable installation dips after last year’s high. We’re happy to feature a strong group of thriving U.S. solar installers on the 2018 Top Solar Contractors list. These companies truly are at the top of their markets.”

The U.S. solar market had its biggest year ever in 2016, installing more than 15,000 MW. Although installations in 2017 dropped to 10,608 MW, the total still represents 40% growth over 2015 numbers. The year-over-year downturn can be attributed to the large influx of 2016 projects rushing to meet the anticipated expiration of a 30% federal tax credit that was eventually renewed. Last year also saw uncertainty surrounding potential Section 201 tariffs on imported solar panels, which may have led to delayed or canceled projects.

Despite initial setbacks posed by the Section 201 tariffs, RPCS installed more solar in 2017 than previous years, and is ramping up for a number of exciting projects in the latter half of 2018.

A major highlight of 2017 was the non-residential market growing 28% year-over-year, the fourth straight year of annual growth for commercial, industrial and community solar. In 2017, 30% of all new electric generating capacity brought online in the United States came from solar, second only to new natural gas capacity.

The first quarter of 2018 showed a 13% growth over the first quarter of 2017, and RPCS will continue to contribute to the wave of increasing solar generation. By 2023, more than 15,000 MW of solar is expected to be installed annually.

RPCS employs 66 workers, in addition to local temp labor, who installed 165,777 kW of solar power in 13 states in 2017. Since its founding in September of 2014, the company has installed over 450,000 kW of solar.

RPCS is the distributed generation and utility markets’ provider for Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 single axis tracker projects. As Array’s trusted partner, RPCS provides complete turnkey project design and mechanical installation services, and installed systems harness energy gains up to 25% higher than fixed tilt systems. RPCS’ deep history and product expertise of the DuraTrack HZ system provides customers with a trusted choice for flawless execution and repeatable success of single axis tracker projects.

“We’re thrilled and honored to have such a high ranking,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith. “Sincerest thanks to our customers for their continued support. Our place among this list speaks to the relationships we have with our customers and partners, and to our incredibly hard working team.”

RPCS is working with some of the most respected names in the solar industry, and takes pride in establishing lasting relationships with partners. The team has demonstrated the ability to build numerous different projects simultaneously in multiple states and locations, further establishing their commitment to advancing the growth and future of renewable energy.

 

About Solar Power World

Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, SPW has helped U.S. solar contractors—including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets—grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

 

Media Contacts

RPCS
Bri Bruce, Director of Marketing
831-620-2188
bbruce(at)rpcs.com

Solar Power World
Kelly Pickerel, Editor in Chief
216-860-5259
kpickerel(at)wtwhmedia.com

Looking Back at InterSolar North America 2018

intersolar
Front and center in the third floor lobby of the Moscone Center in San Francisco, Calif.

This year’s InterSolar North America trade show, which was the 11th InterSolar North America exhibition, saw both new and industry leading innovators and their products and services, and a myriad of key solar and storage players. There were many exciting and engaging conversations happening at the Array Technologies’ booth, which dominated the third floor exhibit hall lobby at the Moscone Center in the heart of San Francisco.

As Array’s trusted partner, RPCS showed their support in the booth, where there was an in-depth demo of the DuraTrack HZ v3 solar tracker, topped with both bifacial modules and First Solar Series 6 modules. RPCS shared their year’s many successes, including reaching a recent milestone: 225 projects and 450MW completed.

Reflecting on the show, RPCS founder and president, Eb Russell, comments, “For us, this year’s InterSolar wasn’t closed door meetings about braggawatts, but more of a support group session with friends, colleagues, and competitors sharing openly about the challenging past several months—and a sigh of relief about the recent return to normalcy.” He continues, “We left reinvigorated because of the amazing individuals that make up our industry and that share the vision of a clean, solar energy future for our planet. Thanks everyone for all the good chats and cheer!”

We’re already looking forward to next year’s InterSolar show, and RPCS’s growth.

The Plug-N-Play Solar Tracker

intersolar
The Array Technologies booth was abuzz with visitors and engaging conversations.

On Tuesday at the start of the show, RPCS announced their new partnership with solar balance of systems leader Shoals Technologies and CAB Solar, launching their latest turnkey solution offering, the Plug-N-Play Solar Tracker system. This union will bring an even more streamlined approach to RPCS’s solar tracker installations, providing custom designed wiring solutions for projects using the Array Technologies, Inc., DuraTrack™ HZ V3 solar tracker.

“We had a great showing at Intersolar this year; 2018 has been another great year for RPCS and our Array and Shoals partnership announcement makes our offer to the DG market so much stronger,” says RPCS Chief Sales Officer, Alex Smith. “We’re really proud of the number of projects we’ve done the past couple years, but also know that the real work is ahead of us. It’s also really fun to see our RPCS team growing and interacting with all of our customers and partners during the show.”

Together, RPCS, Shoals, and CAB provide customers the next evolution in solar tracker systems, providing simpler installations and making solar energy a more affordable, lower risk source of clean power for future generations.

For more information on the Plug-N-Play Tracker, visit https://www.ampacity.com/plug-n-play-solar-tracker.

MCE Solar One Ribbon Cutting

RPCS is pleased to congratulate Cenergy Power and sPower on the completion of their MCE Solar One project, and is honored to have been part of this incredible project. A local renewable energy project built on an old Chevron oil refinery, MCE Solar One is a new 60-acre, 10.5 MW ground mount solar farm in Richmond, California.

The project deployed approximately 80,000 ground mounted modules using both a fixed tilt rack as well as single axis trackers, with RPCS supplying and installing the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 tracker for the SAT portion. MCE Solar One will generate renewable energy to power 3,417 homes per year.

“It’s great seeing an old refinery convert its property to a solar project. Overcoming site-specific environmental and property challenges on this site is proof that more of these projects are going to keep happening. It was a pleasure supporting MCE, sPower, and our long-term partners at Cenergy while providing opportunities for local workers through RichmondBUILD,” said RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith.

“We’re very happy to have helped support MCE Solar One and to congratulate MCE, sPower, and Cenergy Power.”

See the press release here: https://www.ampacity.com/mce-solar-one-rpcs/

 

About RP Construction Services, Inc.:
RPCS designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 Single-Axis Tracker. With over 300 MW and over 180 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels ATI’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

About Array Technologies, Inc.:
Array Technologies, Inc. is the leading solar tracking solutions and services provider for utility-scale projects. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers the best project returns in the industry. As the chosen tracker for more than 16 GW years of energy production, Array’s products have been optimized through unparalleled experience garnered over nearly three decades. Array Technologies is headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Australia. For more information, please visit arraytechinc.com.

Cenergy Power, MCE, RPCS Commission San Francisco Bay Area’s Largest Publicly Owned Solar Project

MCE Solar One RPCSMONTEREY, CALIF. January 29th, 2018 – RPCS is pleased to congratulate Cenergy Power and sPower on the completion of their MCE Solar One project. A local renewable energy project built on an old refinery, MCE Solar One is a new 60-acre, 10.5 MW ground mount solar farm in Richmond, California.

The project deployed approximately 80,000 ground mounted modules using both a fixed tilt rack as well as single axis trackers, with RPCS supplying and installing the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 tracker for the SAT portion. Pre-development costs were covered in part by customers participating in MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy service. Once completed, MCE Solar One will generate renewable energy to power 3,417 homes per year.

MCE and the city of Richmond also committed to a 50 percent local hire requirement to build MCE Solar One, guaranteeing local benefits through clean energy job creation. In supporting this local hire requirement, MCE created over 300 jobs by partnering with RichmondBUILD, a program that focuses on developing skill in the high growth, high wage construction and renewable energy sectors. Eighty percent of graduates from RichmondBUILD’s programs are placed into well-paying jobs. MCE will train and hire skilled graduates of the RichmondBuild program as employees for the project.MCE Solar One RPCS Cenergy

“It’s great seeing an old refinery convert its property to a solar project. Overcoming site-specific environmental and property challenges on this site is proof that more of these projects are going to keep happening. It was a pleasure supporting MCE, sPower, and our long-term partners at Cenergy while providing opportunities for local workers through RichmondBUILD,” said RPCS Chief Sales Officer Alex Smith. “This project is a real achievement for everyone involved and a success for lots of people on lots of different levels. We’re very happy to have helped support MCE Solar One and to congratulate MCE, sPower, and Cenergy Power.”

Together, MCE, sPower, Cenergy, and RPCS are working toward increasing the use of renewable energy resources in an effort to help the state reach its greenhouse gas reduction goals, all while creating local jobs and clean power.

Learn more about the project at https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/news/press-releases/mce-solar-one/

 

About RP Construction Services, Inc.:
RPCS designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 Single-Axis Tracker. With over 300 MW and over 180 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels ATI’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

About Array Technologies, Inc.:
Array Technologies, Inc. is the leading solar tracking solutions and services provider for utility-scale projects. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers the best project returns in the industry. As the chosen tracker for more than 16 GW years of energy production, Array’s products have been optimized through unparalleled experience garnered over nearly three decades. Array Technologies is headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Australia. For more information, please visit arraytechinc.com.

 

 

 

 

RPCS Partners with REC Solar to Complete 4.5MW AC Solar Farm for CalPoly

RPCS REC Solar CalPoly
Photo: REC Solar

MONTEREY, CALIF. – January 26th – On Wednesday, an official ribbon cutting ceremony for Cal Poly’s first solar farm celebrated the successful completion of a high profile and very meaningful solar project. The new solar farm is the first energy-related project since the university announced their goal of climate neutrality.

The 18.5-acre 4.5 MW AC solar site containing more than 16,000 solar panels is located on the western side of the CalPoly campus in San Luis Obispo, California. Set to generate more than 11 million kWh each year (enough to power over 1,000 homes), the solar farm will produce up to 25% of the university’s total electricity needs while creating nearly $17 million in savings.

CalPoly partnered with REC Solar, a San Luis Obispo-based company founded by two CalPoly alumni, and RPCS to design, construct, and install the site. The site is being financed by Duke Energy via a power purchase agreement that will allow CalPoly to purchase energy at a lower rate without paying upfront for the cost of the system’s construction and maintenance.

The solar farm uses ground-mounted single-axis tracking technology from RPCS partner Array Technologies. This innovative technology, specifically Array Technologies’ DuraTrack HZ v3 system, increases energy production of the solar modules by 20 to 25 percent over fixed-tilt systems. RPCS is the trusted DG partner for Array Technologies’ solar tracker systems and provides leading U.S. solar companies with turnkey services in the ground mount utility-scale solar sector.

RPCS REC Solar CalPoly
Photo: REC Solar

The solar farm will also provide an added opportunity for students to study and conduct experiments in a hands-on environment. The site will incorporate a newly created solar engineering and microgrid laboratory to maximize academic applications for students and faculty.

“CalPoly is an important project for a lot of reasons and RPCS is proud to have contributed to its success. It was a pleasure making sure the trackers and installation were perfect and that everything from boundaries, topo, environmental, and schedule challenges were handled beautifully. All of us who worked on this project will remember it and be proud to visit for decades to come,” said Alex Smith, RPCS’s Chief Sales Officer. “Congrats to REC, Duke, and CalPoly’s leadership and students!”

The CalPoly campus is located on California’s Central Coast and in an environmentally sensitive and restricted area, neighboring the area’s iconic Bishop’s Peak. The geological realities for a ground mount project in this location included significant sloping and undulations as well as challenging soils which required sophisticated foundation designs and installation methods.

In addition, the campus neighbors an equestrian center, where subjecting the resident horses to noise was a concern. The team was also under strict regulations to ensure that construction did not interfere with important artifacts from nearby Native American cultural sites. RPCS adjusted its schedule and planned on behalf of REC and Duke to ensure that the installation timing, methods, and durations would be considerate and effective in reducing construction noise and disturbance.

The university is known for its sprawling, breathtaking grounds, so ensuring that it would remain pristine before, during, and after construction was a special goal that RPCS was able to achieve.

About RP Construction Services, Inc.: RPCS designs and builds ground mount solar projects using the industry’s gold standard for quality, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 Single-Axis Tracker. With over 300 MW and over 180 projects completed or under construction throughout the United States, RPCS provides full turnkey service and support for the industry’s most bankable and reliable tracker. RPCS’s expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker and foundation procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of the project, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels ATI’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at 831.620.2188. 

About Array Technologies, Inc.:
 Array Technologies, Inc. is the leading solar tracking solutions and services provider for utility-scale projects. With efficient installation and terrain flexibility coupled with high reliability, durability, and performance, Array delivers the best project returns in the industry. As the chosen tracker for more than 16 GW years of energy production, Array’s products have been optimized through unparalleled experience garnered over nearly three decades. Array Technologies is headquartered in the United States with offices in Europe, Central and South America, the Middle East, and Australia. For more information, please visit arraytechinc.com.

 

 

VIDEO: http://ow.ly/wh9Q30ezJru

Official PR from REC Solar: https://recsolar.com/press/cal-poly-dedicates-new-solar-farm/

 

Is Solar a Hobby Job? No Longer!

first solar rpcsIn 1999, I had an internship at Sunlight & Power as a laborer for solar thermal and PV installations on residences. One day a project would be in Oakland, and the next day we would be in Redwood City. Solar was few and far between; my father called it a “hobby job” …

Today, the Department of Energy estimates that solar jobs are no longer a hobby. In fact, over 250,000 people are employed by this bright emerging technology sector. A light in the dark coal mining history of energy, the renewable energy industry along with distributed energy storage aims to create infrastructure jobs that cannot be exported or imported. Solar installed on US soil must be installed in the US. These jobs are only threatened by politics.

As a microstudy, our little company stgrpcs.wpengine.com has worked with 417 local hires in South Carolina, Colorado, Indiana, New Mexico, Georgia, Florida, California, North Carolina, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Mississippi – and I think I am missing a few others. We provide training and work. Our developer & EPC clients provide these great and expanding opportunities to build infrastructure that is local. In one particular town, Barnwell, South Carolina – the town treated us as family for many of the local sons & daughters came to work with us on the solar farm…. and there is more to come! We cannot stop the sun.

How many people work with your solar company? I bet it’s a growing number.

Why stop that growth? I am yet to hear a valid reason; yes there are technical challenges with storage and distribution – but let’s not run away from those challenges.

When we look at the world, what do we see? China installs solar too, yes. Is that a bad thing? The Chinese have installed more solar in the last 3 years than the USA and Germany (#2 and #3 PV Countries) combined in the last 15 years. Why not benefit from those economies of scale that a global economy creates?

Who are we protecting when we place a tariff?

In India, the price of solar panels has been reported as low as $0.34/watt-DC. The entire WORLD is installing solar these days. Why would we build a tariff wall to put ourselves behind the rest of the world? Let’s use these valuable US dollar$ to buy some non-plastic energy producing goods that will create skilled jobs, improve the infrastructure, and beef up energy security in the USA. If we let this thing ride, the opportunities and jobs will continue to grow.

In the US, new states are embracing wind, solar, and energy storage – with minnesota, illinois, nebraska, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and many more realizing that solar energy is less expensive, and easier to deploy and maintain, than any other type of energy generation.

Let the sun shine in! This industry is not a hobby; it is now a global juggernaut. The USA should be leading the way, so I vote that we raise the bar.

 

Adam Larner
VP Operations, RPCS

RPCS Supports i1 Energy’s First Solar Project

i1logo
i1 Energy Provides EPC services for Solar Projects throughout the country.

I1 Energy to EPC 6.8-MW solar project in New Mexico

I1 Energy, has executed a turnkey engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract with Onyx Renewable Partners L.P. for its 6.8 MW (dc) Middle Daisy Solar project in Lovington, New Mexico. The project includes a 69-kV substation and switch.

Design and procurement services are underway and the project is expected to be completed by the end of Q3. Onyx’s CEO Matthew Rosenblum said, “We are excited to work with i1 as we build our company’s first solar project in New Mexico.”

Topher Wood, COO of i1 Energy, said, “We are very excited to be working with Onyx to provide utility solar in New Mexico. This project kicks-off a strong start for i1 Energy and we look forward to continuing to provide quality projects alongside our partners in the industry.”

RPCS is proud to support i1 Energy on their inaugural EPC solar project in New Mexico. The team at RPCS is looking forward to building a portfolio of projects with the i1 team using the industry’s trusted choice for tracker quality and reliability, the Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ V3 Single Axis Tracker.

Join RPCS at Intersolar North America 2017

Intersolar
Join RPCS & ATI at Intersolar North America

Join RPCS at Intersolar North America Next Week

Members from the RPCS team will join Array Technologies at booth 9811

MONTEREY, CA – RPCS (RP Construction Services Inc.) is excited to be attending Intersolar North America 2017, and will be holding meetings with customers at the Array Technologies Inc. company booth 9811, located on the 3rd floor of the conference. RPCS is honored to represent the world’s most reliable tracker as ATI’s Exclusive Value Added Reseller for all projects 10 MW (ac) and under.

RPCS provides complete, turnkey services for ATI’s DuraTrack® HZ v3 single axis tracker product. Providing expert knowledge and support for the Array product, RPCS can assist you with site layout optimization, optimized foundation design, ATI procurement and foundation post procurement. Our team also offers turnkey mechanical installation services, ATI commissioning and a full parts & labor warranty.

RPCS has completed over 125 ATI DG projects in the past two years. RPCS has partnerships with the solar industry’s leading EPCs, and is currently building portfolios of Array Technologies DuraTrack® HZ v3 projects throughout the country.

RPCS will demo ATI’s live DuraTrack® HZ v3 tracker system, optimized for both traditional 72 cell and First Solar module applications. Let RPCS show you why the ATI DuraTrack® HZ is the best tracker in the industry, and how you can work with RPCS to make integrating trackers into your project portfolios a seamless, stress free experience.

 

Indiana Newspaper Features RPCS

 

TrackerInstall
Mitchell, IN Hoosier Energy ATI Tracker Project

Courtesy of Jeff Routh, Times Mail – Bedford, IN

New Solar Field Under Construction South of Mitchell

If you’ve driven south along State Road 37 lately, you’ve probably noticed the solar panel field under construction just south of Mitchell.

Orange County REMC will be the beneficiary of that new solar array being installed south of White River Co-Op, between State Road 37 and Clover Lane. The field is being built by Hoosier Energy.

The local project is one of 10 solar fields being built by Hoosier Energy. It is the 10th to be completed and is slated to go online later this year. That could be as early as September, if all goes well. A dedication is tentatively planned for Sep. 14.

Construction began earlier this month and it is expected to take three months to build the array, get interconnected and connect to the grid. The total average cost for the 10 solar arrays that Hoosier Energy has built in this project is $2.5 million per array. According to Hoosier Energy, the cost of energy production in this type of array is actually cheaper than if a member was to install their own system at their own home.

The solar array is a 1 megawatt array with 4,000 solar panels and 18 inverters that convert the DC generated power into AC electricity that can be used in the home. The array will generate 2 million kilowatt hours, which is enough to power about 150 houses, according to Matt Deaton, General Manager of Orange County REMC, and information provided to the paper.

Orange County REMC has about 8,000 meters in its coverage area with about 93 percent of those being residential meters. Construction crews are currently installing more than 4,100 solar panels. Each panel weighs about 52 pounds. The panels are QCells and are engineered in Germany. The panels are being installed on vertical posts that have been driven into the ground. The vertical posts are connected with a horizontal rod to which the panels are connected. This vertical rod is motorized and the panels will be able to rotate with the movement of the sun, allowing for maximum collection.

That means the panels will be facing east in the morning and will gradually rotate toward the west as the earth rotates.

The lifespan of the array is projected at 25 years and it covers more than 8 1/2 acres.

Hoosier Energy covers most of southern Indiana, from just north of Bloomington south to the Ohio River.

In 2000, 100 percent of Hoosier Energy’s electricity was generated by burning coal. Today, only 58 percent is generated through burning coal, with an additional 37 percent generated through natural gas plants and the remaining 5 percent through renewable sources. It is projected that, by 2025, at least 10 percent will be produced through renewable sources. Renewable sources include: landfill gas, coal bed methane, hydro-electric, wind and solar energy.

By diversifying their generation methods, Hoosier Energy hopes to better control its costs for generating power and therefore stabilize the rates charged to consumers.

ATI Ships Over 6 Gigawatts Globally

Array Technologies Leads U.S. Market in Solar Tracker Shipments

Solar tracker manufacturer has shipped six GW of solar trackers globally

October 25, 2016 — Array Technologies, Inc. (ATI), the global leader in solar tracking solutions and services, announced today it has shipped six GW of solar trackers globally. The news comes on the heels of GTM Research’s recent report The Global PV Tracker Landscape 2016: Prices, Forecasts, Market Shares and Vendor Profiles, which reported that ATI is the nation’s market share leader in solar tracker manufacturing based on MW volume of tracker shipments.

The Global PV Tracker Landscape 2016 report notes that ATI is not only the U.S. market leader in solar tracking, but also has “the most extensive track record of any tracking vendor and is in the top tier of bankable tracking vendors.”

ATI’s unmatched experience is a key component to the company’s leadership in the industry. While newer competitors face a steep learning curve, ATI’s culture of innovation combined with wisdom from decades in the field and over 12,900 MW years of tracker operation enables the company to provide technology with both low up-front costs and long-term, proven reliability. ATI’s trackers have a simple and elegant design, with the flexibility to adapt to a variety of terrains. While many competing tracker architectures contain more than 29,000 parts in a 100 MW solar plant, an ATI-equipped plant of the same size is comprised of a mere 187 parts, drastically reducing the complexity of install and the level of operations and management required to maintain the project. ATI’s trackers are also robustly designed to survive extreme weather conditions in any tracker position, unlike alternative trackers which rely on assuming a specific position, such as wind-stow, to withstand weather events.

“With 27 years exclusively dedicated to solar tracking, Array Technologies has learned the best processes, business strategies and technology advancements to provide both a high-quality and low-cost product,” said Ron Corio, CEO of ATI. “We look forward to growing our leadership beyond the U.S. to meet the needs of the global utility-scale solar market.”

The GTM Research report follows a recent announcement that the Power Opportunities group of Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., a private equity investment strategy focused on accelerating the performance of businesses in the energy and power industries, invested in ATI to enhance the tracker company’s global expansion. The firm targets leading infrastructure and equipment businesses in the energy space. The partnership provides ATI with the capital and strategic support needed to expand the company’s global utility-scale solar tracker operations.

 

About Array Technologies, Inc.:

Array Technologies is the worldwide market leader in tracking solutions for utility and commercial solar electric generation systems, with six gigawatts shipped and installed across the globe. Over the past 27 years, Array’s innovation in solar tracker design and delivery has set the bar for providing the lowest levelized cost of electricity through our easy to install, maintain, and highly reliable tracking systems. Headquartered in Albuquerque, NM, Array Technologies’ solutions are engineered in the USA. For more information about Array Technologies, please visit arraytechinc.com, connect with us on LinkedIn, join us on G+follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Array Technologies Announces RP Construction Services as Exclusive Value Added Reseller for Projects Under 10 MW (ac)

Albuquerque, NM | 9/15/16

Array Technologies, Inc. (ATI), the world’s leading manufacturer of reliable solar tracking solutions, announces an expansion of their highly successful partnership with solar design and construction company, RP Construction Services, Inc. (RPCS). RPCS now serves as ATI’s exclusive national Value Added Reseller (VAR) for all projects 10 MW (ac) and under.

Working together since 2009, the Array Technologies and RP Construction Services teams have shared great success in the solar tracker market, servicing leading solar companies across a diverse range of portfolios and projects.

“Array Technologies continues to be the tracker market’s standard for quality. We’re honored that Array trusts RPCS as their exclusive value added partner for all projects under 10 MW (ac), ensuring that system owners will recognize the ATI quality through both engineering and installation,” said Eb Russell, founder and President of RP Construction Services Inc.

“I know the RPCS team well and consider them an extension of the ATI team. They do excellent work and will make their customers’ projects successful in every way,” said Ron Corio, founder and CEO of Array Technologies, Inc. “We are looking forward to expanding our reach into the DG space through this strong partnership that supports a growing market segment demanding reliable, high-performing tracker solutions.”

RP Construction Services is currently building DuraTrack® HZ installations across the country, assisting major solar companies with their growing portfolios of single-axis tracker projects.

 

About Array Technologies, Inc.:

Array Technologies is the worldwide market leader in tracking solutions for utility and commercial solar electric generation systems, with nearly 6 gigawatts shipped and installed across the globe. Over the past twenty-seven years, Array’s innovation in solar tracker design and delivery has set the bar for providing the lowest levelized cost of electricity through our easy to install, maintain, and highly reliable tracking systems. Headquartered in Albuquerque, NM, Array Technologies’ solutions are engineered in the USA. For more information about Array Technologies, please visit arraytechinc.com, connect with us on LinkedIn, join us on G+, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

About RP Construction Services, Inc.:

RPCS’ expert knowledge of Array Technologies’ trackers ensures world class turnkey project assistance including site layout optimization, ancillary engineering services, tracker supply, foundation post procurement, and complete mechanical installation. The team at RPCS provides reliable support at every step of their projects, delivering a level of quality and efficiency that parallels ATI’s market reputation. For more information about RPCS, please visit rpcs.com or call us at (855) 428-3000 or (646) 831-0663.