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Renewable Energy: Solar Energy: DNR Solar Program:
Cunningham
Ranch
The Division of Wildlife Resources maintains the Cunningham Ranch which
is located in the southern Bookcliffs, approximately 20 miles north of
Cisco, Utah. The ranch provides habitat for elk, mule deer, black bears,
and other wildlife.
Traditionally, electricity was provided by a generator, however in 2000, a photovoltaic (PV) system was installed by the Utah State Energy Program and the Division of Wildlife Resources. Now the ranch has clean, quiet power available 24 hours per day.
The 2,400 watt solar array consists of thirty-two 75-watt PV modules. The array is wired in eight four-module series strings. Four modules in series provide a nominal voltage of 48 volts.
A power center contains the charge controller, metering, and over current protection (circuit breakers). The two inverters have a combined capacity of 8,000 watts and can run both 120 volt and 240 volt loads.
A battery bank consists of absorbed glass matt (AGM) lead acid batteries. These sealed, valve-regulated batteries are maintenance free (water cannot be added).
System Specifications
Solar Array Rated Output |
2,400 watts |
Inverter Capacity |
8,000 watts |
Battery Capacity |
1,300 amp-hours |
DC Nominal Voltage |
48 volts |
AC Nominal Voltage |
120/240 volts |
Year installed |
2000 |
Cost |
$35,600 (equipment only) |
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| The two inverters (left) have a combined capacity of 8,000 watts. The power center (right) contains the charge controller, metering, and circuit breakers. | The battery bank consists of absorbed glass matt (AGM) lead acid batteries. These sealed, valve-regulated batteries are maintenance free. |