feat: initial project setup with bash-based NREL analysis

- Add bash script (siter-solar-analysis.sh) for NREL PVWatts API - Add BATS test suite with 19 tests (all passing) - Add Docker test environment with shellcheck, bats, curl, jq, bc - Add pre-commit hooks enforcing SDLC rules - Mark Python scripts as deprecated (kept for reference) - Add comprehensive README.md and AGENTS.md documentation - Add .env.example for configuration template - Add .gitignore excluding private data (base-bill/, .env) - Add SVG diagrams for presentation - Redact all private location data (use SITER placeholder) All work done following SDLC: Docker-only development, TDD approach, conventional commits, code/docs/tests synchronized. Generated with Crush Assisted-by: GLM-5 via Crush <crush@charm.land>
2026-02-27 16:45:41 -05:00
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+# SITER Solar Installation Project
+## 2026 Renewable Energy Initiative - v2 Analysis
+
+---
+
+## Executive Summary
+
+This document outlines a solar energy installation project for SITER, designed to offset a portion of monthly electricity costs through solar generation. The system will utilize 16 solar panels across 8 custom-built ground-mount racks, paired with a Sol-Ark 5K hybrid inverter that integrates with the existing Base Power battery backup system.
+
+**Total Project Investment:** $4,100.00
+**Estimated ROI Period:** 9.1 years (based on updated billing analysis)
+**Estimated Monthly Savings:** $37.61 (14.2% bill offset)
+
+**Existing Infrastructure:** SITER currently operates with a Base Power battery backup system and automatic transfer switch (ATS), installed in 2025, providing resilience and a fixed energy rate of **$0.085/kWh** through a 3-year contract (Oct 2025 - Oct 2028).
+
+**Updated Billing Data (15 months):** Average monthly consumption of 1,885 kWh (~22,600 kWh/year) at average effective rate of $0.140/kWh.
+
+**NREL PVWatts Analysis:** Based on location data for SITER, a 16-panel system (4.0 kW DC with 250W panels) is projected to produce ~6,000 kWh/year, offsetting approximately 14% of current consumption.
+
+---
+
+## Table of Contents
+
+1. [Project Overview](#project-overview)
+2. [Technical Specifications](#technical-specifications)
+3. [Detailed Budget](#detailed-budget)
+4. [Project Timeline](#project-timeline)
+5. [Risk Analysis](#risk-analysis)
+6. [Return on Investment Analysis](#return-on-investment-analysis)
+7. [Recommendations](#recommendations)
+8. [Appendix](#appendix)
+
+---
+
+## Project Overview
+
+### Objectives
+
+- Reduce monthly electricity expenses through solar generation (~14% offset with current panels)
+- Integrate with existing Base Power battery backup infrastructure
+- Leverage Base Power's 4¢/kWh solar buyback program for excess production
+- Complete installation with minimal upfront capital expenditure
+- Achieve positive ROI within 10 years while gaining energy resilience
+
+### Scope
+
+| Component | Quantity | Description |
+|-----------|----------|-------------|
+| Solar Panels | 16 | Existing inventory (250W each) |
+| Ground-Mount Racks | 8 | Custom steel construction |
+| Inverter | 1 | Sol-Ark 5K Hybrid |
+| Wiring & Connectors | TBD | To be determined based on site layout |
+
+### Current Status
+
+- **Phase:** Initial procurement and rack construction
+- **Spend to Date:** $360.95 (first solar rack completed)
+- **Next Milestone:** Complete remaining 7 racks
+
+### Existing Infrastructure
+
+SITER has the following energy infrastructure already in place:
+
+| Component | Details | Install Date |
+|-----------|---------|--------------|
+| Base Power Battery System | Battery backup with automatic transfer switch | 2024 |
+| Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) | Seamless grid/battery switching | 2024 |
+| Base Power Contract | 3-year fixed rate at $0.085/kWh | 2025-2028 |
+
+**Site Base Load:** ~1,885 kWh/month (15-month average)
+
+This existing infrastructure significantly de-risks the solar project:
+- ATS already installed for grid switching
+- Battery backup provides load smoothing and outage protection
+- Fixed-rate contract provides predictable baseline costs
+
+---
+
+## Technical Specifications
+
+### Inverter: Sol-Ark 5K-5kW-48V Single-Phase Hybrid
+
+| Specification | Value |
+|---------------|-------|
+| Power Output | 5kW |
+| System Voltage | 48V DC |
+| Phase | Single Phase |
+| Type | Hybrid (Grid-tied + Battery Backup) |
+| Source | [EcoDirect](https://www.ecodirect.com/Sol-Ark-5K-5kW-48V-Single-Phase-Hybrid-Inverter-p/sol-ark-5k-1p-n.htm) |
+
+**Key Benefits:**
+- Grid-tied operation for net metering eligibility
+- **Integrates with existing Base Power battery system**
+- Hybrid functionality ensures power during grid outages
+- High efficiency rating minimizes energy loss
+- Compatible with existing ATS infrastructure
+
+### Existing Base Power System
+
+| Specification | Value |
+|---------------|-------|
+| Contract Rate | $0.085/kWh (fixed through Oct 2028) |
+| Solar Buyback Rate | $0.04/kWh (4¢/kWh) |
+| Contract Term | 3 years (Oct 2025 - Oct 2028) |
+| Site Base Load | ~1,885 kWh/month (actual 15-month average) |
+| Backup Capability | Automatic transfer switch + battery |
+| Installation Date | 2024 |
+| Solar Integration | Seamless - no additional equipment needed |
+
+**Source:** [Base Power Solar Integration](https://www.basepowercompany.com/with-solar)
+
+### Solar Buyback Program Details
+
+Base Power offers competitive solar buyback rates for excess production:
+
+| Feature | Details |
+|---------|--------|
+| Buyback Rate | 4¢/kWh for all excess solar production |
+| Credit Application | Applies to **entire bill** (not just energy charge) |
+| Negative Balance | Rolls over to following month |
+| Solar Tracking | Shown on monthly bill in "Solar Credits" section |
+| Outage Protection | Base keeps solar panels producing during grid outages |
+
+**Integration Strategy:** Solar generation will first offset on-site consumption (reducing the $0.085/kWh charge), with excess production credited at $0.04/kWh. The existing Base Power battery system provides:
+- Automatic solar integration without additional equipment
+- Continued solar operation during grid outages
+- Battery storage for excess daytime production
+
+**image-1-placeholder**
+
+### Rack System: Ground-Mount Steel Construction
+
+Each rack accommodates 2 solar panels using galvanized steel posts and adjustable mounting hardware.
+
+**Materials per Rack:**
+- 6x 8' steel posts (driven into ground)
+- 14x 5/16" x 5-3/8" U-bolts (panel mounting)
+- 3x 2-3/8" Galvanized Adjustable Clamps (structural support)
+
+**image-5-placeholder**
+
+---
+
+## Detailed Budget
+
+### Phase 1: Equipment & Materials
+
+#### 1.1 Panel Rack Construction
+
+| Line Item | Qty | Unit Cost | Subtotal | Notes |
+|-----------|-----|-----------|----------|-------|
+| 8' Steel Posts | 48 | $34.97 | $1,678.56 | 6 posts per rack × 8 racks |
+| 5/16" x 5-3/8" U-bolts | 112 | $2.33 | $260.96 | 14 per rack × 8 racks |
+| 2-3/8" Galv Adj. Clamps | 24 | $3.77 | $90.48 | 3 per rack × 8 racks |
+| **Rack Materials Subtotal** | | | **$2,030.00** | |
+
+#### 1.2 Tools & Equipment (One-Time)
+
+| Line Item | Qty | Unit Cost | Subtotal | Notes |
+|-----------|-----|-----------|----------|-------|
+| Post Driver | 1 | $57.75 | $57.75 | Reusable for future projects |
+| **Tools Subtotal** | | | **$57.75** | |
+
+#### 1.3 Electrical Components
+
+| Line Item | Est. Cost | Notes |
+|-----------|-----------|-------|
+| Romex Wiring | $200.00 | Gauge/length TBD based on site survey |
+| Connectors & Junction Boxes | $112.25 | MC4 connectors, conduit, etc. |
+| **Electrical Subtotal** | **$312.25** | Conservative estimate |
+
+#### 1.4 Inverter
+
+| Line Item | Qty | Unit Cost | Subtotal | Notes |
+|-----------|-----|-----------|----------|-------|
+| Sol-Ark 5K Hybrid Inverter | 1 | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 | Includes shipping |
+| **Inverter Subtotal** | | | **$1,500.00** | |
+
+---
+
+### Budget Summary
+
+| Category | Amount | % of Total |
+|----------|--------|------------|
+| Rack Materials | $2,030.00 | 49.5% |
+| Tools (One-Time) | $57.75 | 1.4% |
+| Electrical Components | $312.25 | 7.6% |
+| Inverter | $1,500.00 | 36.6% |
+| **Contingency Reserve (10%)** | **$200.00** | **4.9%** |
+| **TOTAL PROJECT BUDGET** | **$4,100.00** | **100%** |
+
+### Spend to Date
+
+| Date | Item | Amount | Running Total |
+|------|------|--------|---------------|
+| 2026 | First Solar Rack (materials) | $360.95 | $360.95 |
+| | *Remaining Budget* | *$3,739.05* | |
+
+---
+
+### Cost Comparison: Per-Rack Analysis
+
+| Cost Element | Per Rack | 8 Racks Total |
+|--------------|----------|---------------|
+| Steel Posts | $209.82 | $1,678.56 |
+| U-bolts | $45.92 | $367.36 |
+| Adjustable Clamps | $11.31 | $90.48 |
+| **Base Rack Cost** | **$267.05** | **$2,136.40** |
+| Wiring/Connectors (est.) | $32.95 | $263.60 |
+| **All-In Rack Cost** | **$301.08** | **$2,400.00** |
+
+---
+
+## Project Timeline
+
+### Phase Overview
+
+```
+Week 1-2:  [████████] Procurement & Site Prep
+Week 3-6:  [████████████████████████████████] Rack Construction
+Week 7-8:  [████████████] Inverter Installation
+Week 9:    [████] Electrical Wiring
+Week 10:   [████] Testing & Commissioning
+```
+
+### Detailed Schedule
+
+| Phase | Tasks | Duration | Dependencies |
+|-------|-------|----------|--------------|
+| **1. Procurement** | Order inverter, purchase remaining steel posts, hardware, wiring | 1-2 weeks | Budget approval |
+| **2. Site Preparation** | Mark rack locations, clear vegetation if needed | 1 week | Phase 1 |
+| **3. Rack Construction** | Build 7 remaining racks (1 already complete) | 3-4 weeks | Phase 2 |
+| **4. Panel Mounting** | Install panels on completed racks | 1 week | Phase 3 |
+| **5. Inverter Installation** | Mount inverter, connect to panel array | 1 week | Phase 4 |
+| **6. Electrical Integration** | Run wiring, install disconnects, connect to building | 1 week | Phase 5 |
+| **7. Testing & Commissioning** | System testing, safety inspection, energize | 1 week | Phase 6 |
+
+**Estimated Total Duration:** 8-10 weeks
+
+### Milestones
+
+- [ ] **M1:** All materials procured
+- [ ] **M2:** Site preparation complete
+- [ ] **M3:** All 8 racks constructed
+- [ ] **M4:** Panels mounted and secured
+- [ ] **M5:** Inverter installed and connected
+- [ ] **M6:** System commissioned and operational
+
+---
+
+## Risk Analysis
+
+### Risk Register
+
+| ID | Risk Description | Probability | Impact | Risk Score | Mitigation Strategy |
+|----|------------------|-------------|--------|------------|---------------------|
+| R1 | Wiring costs exceed estimates | Medium | Medium | 6 | Obtain quotes from 2-3 suppliers; consider DIY installation |
+| R2 | Weather delays rack construction | Medium | Low | 4 | Build buffer into timeline; work during favorable seasons |
+| R3 | Inverter supply chain delays | Low | High | 5 | Order early; confirm stock before project start |
+| R4 | Structural issues with racks | Low | Medium | 3 | Follow engineering best practices; inspect posts regularly |
+| R5 | Utility interconnection delays | Low | Medium | 3 | Research local requirements early; submit paperwork promptly |
+| R6 | Permit requirements | Medium | Medium | 6 | Verify local building codes before construction |
+| R7 | Panel compatibility issues | Low | Low | 2 | Confirm panel specs match inverter requirements |
+| R8 | ROI takes longer than projected | Low | Medium | 3 | Conservative savings estimates; monitor actual output |
+
+### Risk Matrix
+
+```
+                    IMPACT
+              Low      Medium      High
+         ┌─────────┬─────────┬─────────┐
+    High │         │    R6   │         │
+PROB     ├─────────┼─────────┼─────────┤
+   Medium│    R2   │  R1,R8  │         │
+         ├─────────┼─────────┼─────────┤
+      Low│    R7   │  R4,R5  │  R3     │
+         └─────────┴─────────┴─────────┘
+```
+
+### Key Risk Mitigations
+
+#### R1: Wiring Cost Overrun
+- **Current Status:** Only rough estimates completed
+- **Action Items:**
+  - [ ] Conduct site survey to determine exact wire runs
+  - [ ] Obtain quotes from multiple electrical suppliers
+  - [ ] Consider aluminum conductors for long runs (cost savings)
+  - [ ] Allocate $200 contingency specifically for electrical
+
+#### R6: Permit Requirements
+- **Current Status:** Unknown
+- **Action Items:**
+  - [ ] Contact local building department
+  - [ ] Research setback requirements for ground-mount systems
+  - [ ] Verify utility interconnection requirements
+  - [ ] Factor permit fees into budget if required
+
+---
+
+## Return on Investment Analysis
+
+### Updated Billing Analysis (15 Months of Data)
+
+Based on actual Base Power billing data from October 2024 through January 2026:
+
+| Service Period | Consumption (kWh) | Bill Amount | Effective Rate |
+|----------------|-------------------|-------------|----------------|
+| Oct 18 - Nov 19, 2024 | 1,368 | $34.61 | $0.025/kWh* |
+| Nov 19 - Dec 18, 2024 | 863 | $132.37 | $0.153/kWh |
+| Dec 18, 2024 - Jan 17, 2025 | 1,092 | $160.33 | $0.147/kWh |
+| Jan 17 - Feb 19, 2025 | 1,434 | $210.73 | $0.147/kWh |
+| Feb 19 - Mar 21, 2025 | 1,398 | $199.35 | $0.143/kWh |
+| Mar 21 - Apr 22, 2025 | 1,472 | $209.71 | $0.143/kWh |
+| Apr 22 - May 21, 2025 | 1,936 | $277.13 | $0.143/kWh |
+| May 21 - Jun 20, 2025 | 2,713 | $385.08 | $0.142/kWh |
+| Jun 20 - Jul 22, 2025 | 2,995 | $423.56 | $0.141/kWh |
+| Jul 22 - Aug 20, 2025 | 3,015 | $428.76 | $0.142/kWh |
+| Aug 20 - Sep 19, 2025 | 2,924 | $440.35 | $0.151/kWh |
+| Sep 19 - Oct 20, 2025 | 2,486 | $372.89 | $0.150/kWh |
+| Oct 20 - Nov 18, 2025 | 1,553 | $235.81 | $0.152/kWh |
+| Nov 18 - Dec 18, 2025 | 1,469 | $240.12 | $0.163/kWh |
+| Dec 18, 2025 - Jan 20, 2026 | 1,549 | $216.25 | $0.140/kWh |
+| **15-Month Average** | **1,885** | **$264.47** | **$0.140/kWh** |
+
+*Note: Oct-Nov 2024 bill had credit applied from previous provider transition
+
+### Seasonal Consumption Patterns
+
+| Season | Months | Avg Consumption | Avg Bill |
+|--------|--------|-----------------|----------|
+| **Summer Peak** | Jun - Sep | 2,912 kWh | $415.89 |
+| **Winter Low** | Nov - Feb | 1,333 kWh | $175.56 |
+| **Shoulder** | Mar - May, Oct | 1,777 kWh | $261.55 |
+
+**Key Insight:** Summer consumption is 2.2× higher than winter, creating opportunity for solar to offset peak production months.
+
+### NREL PVWatts Production Estimate
+
+Based on NREL PVWatts analysis for SITER:
+
+| Parameter | Value |
+|-----------|-------|
+| System Capacity | 4.0 kW DC (16 × 250W panels) |
+| Array Type | Fixed Open Rack (Ground Mount) |
+| Orientation | 30° tilt, 180° azimuth (South) |
+| Annual Production | 6,004 kWh |
+| Monthly Average | 500 kWh |
+| Daily Average | 16 kWh |
+| Capacity Factor | 17.1% |
+| Avg Solar Radiation | 5.52 kWh/m²/day |
+
+### Ground Mount Advantages at SITER
+
+The ground-mount configuration at this site has significant advantages:
+
+| Advantage | Impact |
+|-----------|--------|
+| **Optimal Tilt (30°)** | Matches latitude for maximum annual production |
+| **South-Facing (180°)** | Optimal azimuth for Texas |
+| **No Trees/Shading** | Minimal shading losses (typical: 3-5%, this site: <1%) |
+| **Open Rack** | Better airflow = cooler panels = higher efficiency |
+| **Adjustable Orientation** | Can fine-tune tilt seasonally if desired |
+
+**Optimized Production Estimate (8% losses vs 14% standard):**
+
+| Scenario | Losses | Annual kWh | Monthly $ | Payback |
+|----------|--------|------------|-----------|---------|
+| Conservative (NREL default) | 14% | 6,004 | $37.61 | 9.1 yrs |
+| **Optimized (no shade)** | **8%** | **~6,500** | **~$41** | **~8.3 yrs** |
+
+The site's open exposure and ground-mount flexibility make it an ideal solar location.
+
+### Monthly Production Profile (NREL)
+
+| Month | AC Output (kWh) | Daily Avg | Solar Rad (kWh/m²/day) |
+|-------|-----------------|-----------|------------------------|
+| Jan | 450 | 15 | 4.58 |
+| Feb | 453 | 15 | 5.15 |
+| Mar | 492 | 16 | 5.23 |
+| Apr | 508 | 17 | 5.61 |
+| May | 534 | 18 | 5.87 |
+| Jun | 514 | 17 | 5.94 |
+| Jul | 555 | 18 | 6.31 |
+| Aug | 571 | 19 | 6.57 |
+| Sep | 514 | 17 | 6.01 |
+| Oct | 516 | 17 | 5.62 |
+| Nov | 469 | 15 | 4.99 |
+| Dec | 429 | 14 | 4.39 |
+| **Annual** | **6,004** | **16** | **5.52** |
+
+**image-2-placeholder**
+
+### Investment Summary (Updated)
+
+| Metric | Value |
+|--------|-------|
+| Total Project Cost | $4,100.00 |
+| Average Monthly Bill (15-mo actual) | $264.47 |
+| Site Avg Consumption | 1,885 kWh/month (22,614 kWh/year) |
+| Solar Production (NREL) | 6,004 kWh/year (500 kWh/month) |
+| Self-Sufficiency | 26.6% |
+| Base Power Energy Rate | $0.085/kWh |
+| Base Power Export Rate | $0.04/kWh |
+
+### Financial Analysis (Updated)
+
+| Category | kWh/year | Rate | Annual Value |
+|----------|----------|------|--------------|
+| Self-Consumed (60%) | 3,602 | $0.085/kWh | $306.18 |
+| Exported to Grid (40%) | 2,401 | $0.04/kWh | $96.06 |
+| **Total Annual Value** | **6,004** | | **$402.24** |
+| **Monthly Savings** | | | **$33.52** |
+
+### ROI Summary (Updated)
+
+| Metric | Value |
+|--------|-------|
+| Monthly Savings | $33.52 |
+| Bill Offset | 12.7% (of $264.47 avg bill) |
+| Payback Period | 10.2 years (122 months) |
+
+### System Size Scenarios (NREL Analysis)
+
+| System | kW | kWh/yr | $/mo | Offset | Payback |
+|--------|-----|--------|------|--------|---------|
+| 16 × 250W (current) | 4.0 | 6,004 | $33.52 | 12.7% | 10.2 yrs |
+| 16 × 300W | 4.8 | 7,204 | $40.22 | 15.2% | 8.5 yrs |
+| 16 × 350W | 5.6 | 8,405 | $46.93 | 17.8% | 7.3 yrs |
+| 16 × 400W | 6.4 | 9,606 | $53.63 | 20.3% | 6.4 yrs |
+| 16 × 450W | 7.2 | 10,806 | $60.34 | 22.8% | 5.7 yrs |
+| 20 × 400W (expanded) | 8.0 | 12,007 | $67.04 | 25.4% | 5.1 yrs |
+| 24 × 400W | 9.6 | 14,409 | $80.45 | 30.4% | 4.2 yrs |
+
+**image-4-placeholder**
+
+**Note:** To achieve 100% bill offset would require ~32 kW (80 panels @ 400W each).
+
+### 10-Year Financial Projection (Current System: 16 × 250W)
+
+| Year | Cumulative Savings | Net Position |
+|------|-------------------|--------------|
+| 0 | $0 | -$4,100.00 |
+| 1 | $402.24 | -$3,697.76 |
+| 2 | $804.48 | -$3,295.52 |
+| 3 | $1,206.72 | -$2,893.28 |
+| 4 | $1,608.97 | -$2,491.03 |
+| 5 | $2,011.21 | -$2,088.79 |
+| 6 | $2,413.45 | -$1,686.55 |
+| 7 | $2,815.69 | -$1,284.31 |
+| 8 | $3,217.93 | -$882.07 |
+| 9 | $3,620.17 | -$479.83 |
+| 10 | $4,022.41 | -$77.59 |
+| 11 | $4,424.65 | +$324.65 |
+
+**image-3-placeholder**
+
+### Assumptions
+
+- NREL PVWatts production estimates based on TMY (Typical Meteorological Year) data
+- 60% self-consumption / 40% export split (conservative estimate)
+- System losses of 14% (inverter, wiring, soiling, etc.)
+- Electricity rates remain constant (conservative - rates typically increase 2-3% annually)
+- No major maintenance required in first 10 years
+- Base Power contract at $0.085/kWh remains in effect through Oct 2028
+- Base Power solar buyback at $0.04/kWh continues
+- Solar integration with Base Power system is technically feasible
+
+### Key Considerations
+
+**Production vs. Consumption Gap:**
+- Current consumption: ~22,600 kWh/year
+- Solar production: ~6,000 kWh/year
+- Gap: ~16,600 kWh/year (73% still from grid/Base Power)
+
+**Options to Improve Economics:**
+1. Upgrade to higher-wattage panels (400W+ panels reduce payback to ~6 years)
+2. Expand system size (additional panels/racks)
+3. Reduce consumption through efficiency measures
+4. Add more panels when costs decrease
+
+### Value Adds Not Quantified
+
+- **Energy Independence:** Already partially achieved via Base Power; solar adds generation capability
+- **Property Value:** Solar installations typically increase property value
+- **Environmental Impact:** Reduced carbon footprint
+- **Existing Battery Storage:** Already in place via Base Power system
+- **Rate Hedge:** Protection against future electricity rate increases post-2028
+- **Redundancy:** Solar + Base Power + Grid provides triple-redundant power architecture
+
+---
+
+## Recommendations
+
+### Immediate Actions
+
+1. **Approve Budget:** Authorize $4,100 project expenditure
+2. **Order Inverter:** Confirm Sol-Ark 5K availability and place order
+3. **Complete Site Survey:** Determine exact wiring requirements and costs
+4. **Verify Permits:** Contact local building department to confirm requirements
+
+### Panel Upgrade Consideration
+
+Based on the updated analysis, upgrading from 250W to 400W panels would:
+- Increase production from 6,004 to 9,606 kWh/year (+60%)
+- Increase monthly savings from $33.52 to $53.63
+- Reduce payback from 10.2 years to 6.4 years
+- Increase bill offset from 12.7% to 20.3%
+
+**Recommendation:** If budget allows, consider sourcing 400W panels instead of using existing 250W inventory.
+
+### Project Execution
+
+1. Continue rack construction using proven design from Rack #1
+2. Procure all remaining materials in single order for cost efficiency
+3. Consider hiring licensed electrician for final grid connection
+4. Document entire process for future reference/expansion
+
+### Future Considerations
+
+- **Base Power Contract Renewal (2028):** Evaluate contract terms vs. solar-only operation
+- **Panel Expansion:** Inverter can handle additional capacity if needed
+- **Monitoring:** Add production monitoring system for performance tracking
+- **Grid Export:** Explore net metering options for excess generation
+
+---
+
+## Appendix
+
+### A. Vendor Information
+
+**Inverter Supplier:**
+- EcoDirect
+- Product: Sol-Ark 5K-5kW-48V Single-Phase Hybrid Inverter
+- URL: https://www.ecodirect.com/Sol-Ark-5K-5kW-48V-Single-Phase-Hybrid-Inverter-p/sol-ark-5k-1p-n.htm
+- Price: $1,500.00
+
+### B. Bill of Materials
+
+| Item | Specification | Qty Needed | Unit Cost | Total |
+|------|--------------|------------|-----------|-------|
+| Steel Posts | 8' galvanized | 48 | $34.97 | $1,678.56 |
+| U-bolts | 5/16" x 5-3/8" | 112 | $2.33 | $260.96 |
+| Adjustable Clamps | 2-3/8" galvanized | 24 | $3.77 | $90.48 |
+| Post Driver | Manual | 1 | $57.75 | $57.75 |
+| Hybrid Inverter | Sol-Ark 5K | 1 | $1,500.00 | $1,500.00 |
+| Wiring/Connectors | TBD | - | - | $312.25 |
+| **TOTAL** | | | | **$3,900.00** |
+
+*Note: $200 contingency brings total to $4,100.00*
+
+### C. Rack Construction Details
+
+**Standard Rack Assembly (Per Rack):**
+1. Drive 6 steel posts into ground in 2 rows of 3
+2. Connect posts with horizontal rails using adjustable clamps
+3. Secure panel mounting rails with U-bolts
+4. Mount 2 solar panels per rack
+5. Route wiring through protective conduit
+
+**Completed:** 1 of 8 racks ($360.95 invested)
+
+### D. Base Power Billing Details
+
+**Contract Information:**
+- Contract #: SITER (renewed Oct 2025)
+- Contract ID: SITER
+- Provider: Base Power Company (PUCT License #10338)
+- Address: 1606 Headway Cir, Ste 9333, Austin, TX 78754
+- Support: 1-866-479-POWR (7697)
+
+**Rate Structure:**
+- Energy Charge: $0.085/kWh (Oct 2025 - Oct 2028)
+- Previous Rate: $0.090/kWh (Oct 2024 - Oct 2025)
+- Utility Delivery (Oncor): Pass-through charges (~$0.056/kWh equivalent)
+- Base Subscription Fee: $10.00/month
+- Taxes: ~3.7% (SITER rates)
+
+**Meter Data:**
+- Consumption Meter #: SITER
+- Generation Meter #: SITER (dual-purpose)
+- Reads: Actual (not estimated)
+- Tracks both Generation (solar/battery) and Consumption
+
+### E. Base Power Integration Notes
+
+**Technical Considerations:**
+- Verify Sol-Ark 5K compatibility with existing Base Power ATS
+- Confirm DC voltage alignment between solar array and Base Power battery system
+- Determine optimal AC coupling configuration
+- Review interconnection requirements with Base Power
+
+**Contract Considerations:**
+- Review Base Power contract for solar integration provisions
+- Confirm no penalties for reduced consumption
+- Plan for contract renewal negotiations in Oct 2028
+
+### Base Power Solar Economics
+
+**Consumption Offset vs. Export Credit:**
+
+| Scenario | Rate | Benefit |
+|----------|------|--------|
+| Solar consumed on-site | $0.085/kWh avoided | Higher value - reduces energy charge |
+| Solar exported to grid | $0.04/kWh credit | Lower value - but credits apply to entire bill |
+
+**Optimal Strategy:** Maximize self-consumption during peak production hours (run high-load appliances when solar is generating) to capture the $0.085/kWh value rather than exporting at $0.04/kWh.
+
+**Key Advantage:** Unlike many providers that only credit against energy charges, Base applies solar credits to the **entire bill** including delivery fees, taxes, and the $10/month subscription fee.
+
+### F. Document History
+
+| Version | Date | Author | Changes |
+|---------|------|--------|---------|
+| 1.0 | February 2026 | SITER | Initial project documentation |
+| 1.1 | February 2026 | SITER | Added Base Power infrastructure details |
+| 1.2 | February 2026 | SITER | Updated with actual billing data (5 months) |
+| 2.0 | February 2026 | SITER | Updated with complete billing data (15 months), revised consumption averages, seasonal analysis |
+
+---
+
+*Document prepared for SITER Board Review*
+*Project Start Date: 2026*
+*Target Completion: Q2 2026*