EcoMotion has expertise in objective solar financial analysis. Using OnGrid, a solar financial analysis tool, our professionals check optimal system sizing and orientation, as well as rate shift options, to ascertain the best economic scenarios to present to clients. Our team has managed solar projects for clients both with cash purchases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Recently, we have added EnergyToolbase to our capabilities, allowing us to layer solar and storage options while shifting rates to determine optimal configurations.
For clients that are ready to move forward based on the results of the feasibility analysis – both site and financial – EcoMotion offers procurement support. We take on a role as your “Owner’s Rep.” On a client’s behalf and working collaboratively, our team codifies the scope work, we develop Requests for Proposals, we manage job walks, bidders conferences and questions, check references, review and score proposals, and recommend contractors. We support clients in contract negotiations – 0% escalators, retaining RECs, etc. – to pave the way for final design, permitting, construction and interconnection.
EcoMotion and its Consulting Team members provide Project Oversight and Quality Control services for solar and storage systems from construction through interconnection. Throughout the design, permitting, and installation process, EcoMotion participates in project team meetings, tracks punch lists of work to be completed, flags issues, and maintains client expectations through clear two-way communications with the selected installation contractor on behalf of the client.
EcoMotion routinely monitors our clients’ solar projects. For LA Metro, we have prepared annual performance reports based on nearly a dozen monitoring portals. In cases, our team has had to work with tech support and Metro staff to get these back on line. The resulting performance reports, and reports like them, are essential for making sure systems are on track. If not, there needs to be a plan to restore optimal functionality and production.
EcoMotion provides Field Verification services. For Burbank Water and Power and Anaheim Public Utilities, our solar team inspected and verified solar systems. We did analysis for Point Loma Nazarene University on its aging systems that have been exposed to the salt air. We recently evaluated a school district’s ten-campus solar installation to advise on whether or not to invest in costly equipment updates. In each case, our team checks the condition of equipment on site, examines the azimuth and tilt of the arrays, and evaluates shading and other conditions.
EcoMotion relishes the opportunity to talk solar. We’ve done this in many ways. Perhaps the most colorful training was taking professionals from California and Colorado to Germany and Spain on EcoMotion’s Solar Tours. EcoMotion also led a tour to Iceland to see geothermal behind the scenes.
EcoMotion provides solar training for the technical maintenance team at LA Metro. Consulting Team member, Troy Strand, is hugely effective in inspiring staff to check on systems and to troubleshoot as necessary. The four-hour training courses have included donuts, local and global solar updates, safety reminders, as well as rooftop performance testing and analysis.
EcoMotion has also provided seminars on Rate Options, Community Solar, Energy Storage.
Capital Group Companies - Irvine, California and San Antonio, Texas
Irvine Campus Solar Project
Capital Group Companies first hired EcoMotion in 2009 to support a solar project at its Irvine, California campus. EcoMotion helped the companies get the largest possible solar system, tying the output of three major arrays to the campus’s most expensive power meter. The result was a 1 MW solar system that was Orange County’s largest at the time. The system covered three parking garage’s shade structures and achieved a 4.1-year payback.
In 2015, EcoMotion was back “on campus” in Irvine when the Southern California Edison rules changed, allowing EcoMotion to help Capital Group boost the solar system capacity from 1.2 MW to 2.8 MW. The additional 1.6 MW was installed on six major rooftops and a fourth parking structure. The combined systems now generate over 4 million kWh annually. EcoMotion’s work included a video production using quality drone footage.
In 2023, EcoMotion team supported the Capital Group Companies in both the maintenance of Phase 1, identifying a suitable provider, and then working with CGC’s Phase 2 solar maintenance provider. Work was also recently done supporting system measurement requirements and performance monitoring.
San Antonio, Texas Solar Project
In 2010 Capital Group Companies retained EcoMotion to explore and become eligible for a new feed-in tariff program in San Antonio, Texas for its facilities there. EcoMotion developed a feasibility analysis, drafted an RFP, and managed a competitive solicitation. Our team even camped in a parking lot to be first in line for limited availability of Central Public Service’s Feed-in Tariff program. After considerable analysis, and legal definitions from Central Public Service, the project was put on hold due to an unusual Bear County tax provision for exported power. In September 2023, a solar system was successfully installed and celebrated there.
Scott Brothers Dairy – Solar and Storage
EcoMoton began working for Scott Brothers Dairy in Chino in 2022 to oversee the installation of a large solar and storage system at a dairy processing plant. The completed project is a 2.6 MW solar system, with impressive rooftop expanses as well as elevated carports to accommodate the circulation patterns of large semi tractor trailers delivering milk to the plant. The system is buttressed with an 800 kW battery Tesla bank. EcoMotion’s initial work involved vetting the solar developer lined up for the project, including experience and reference checks. EcoMotion conducted an independent spatial and financial analysis of the project on behalf of the owner. We reviewed the contract and later monitored the system’s commissioning and interconnection.
La Canada Flintridge Country Club – Solar Works
One of the primary findings of the climate action planning process was that solar could potentially be used to power the Club. Electricity accounted for just over 50% of the carbon emissions inventoried and based on the club’s 2019 data. With over 100acres, certainly there could be a home for a 450 kW solar array. Many locations were considered; proposals were requested for innovative hillside solutions. A location between two fairways was considered and ruled out. So was the architecturally distinct Clubhouse given its highly complex, accordion-style roof. Ultimately, the Club decided on a partial solar solution and an ~80 kW system covering the golf cart charging barn. Currently EcoMotion is providing an oversight role. In August 2023, project plans were submitted to the City of La Canada Flintridge.
Solar Project for the Panorama City Indoor Swap Meet
For the Panorama City Indoor Swap Meet, owned by Metropolitan Marketing, EcoMotion facilitated a comprehensive high performance 460 kW solar project. The project included re-roofing with a white reflective, TPO roof; an innovative racking system known as SolarStrap (which adheres to the roof); and highly efficient Hyundai bifacial panels that collect sunlight from above and below. The solar system will offset ~70% of the building’s power consumption.
Award-Winning Solar Ports Cathay Bank - El Monte, California
Established in 1962, Cathay Bank is the oldest Chinese American bank in the United States. Headquartered in El Monte, California, the Bank brought EcoMotion aboard for assistance in developing a solar port project in its sunny, southern parking lot. EcoMotion began by refining the plan and clarifying the project, re-issuing the Request for Proposals with a specific design and scope presented. This saved the Bank hundreds of thousands of dollars. Having helped select the winning bidder, EcoMotion worked with the Bank, the Bank’s architect, and Permacity, the installer ultimately selected for the job.
The 421.3 kW PV system that was built in 2013 is based on carports covered with solar. The canopies feature 2,128 solar panels, sourced from Schüco, a German company. The PV system generates ~650,000 kWh annually, cutting power costs by 40% and saving ~$9,000 each month. In addition, it has substantially reduced the bank’s carbon footprint; keeping nearly 500 tons of greenhouse gases (CO2e) from being released into the atmosphere each year. The project also features LED lighting. In 2014, it won a Los Angeles Business Council award for excellence.
Owner’s Representative Services simplehuman - Torrance, California
For simplehuman, a designer of high-end bath and kitchen supplies, EcoMotion provided owner’s representative services through the contracting and installation of its roof-top solar system. In this capacity, EcoMotion’s solar team reviewed and commented on the contract with a select vendor, including its work plans and timeline. In this case EcoMotion was pleased to provide a quick and incisive exercise with periodic follow-up during installation and commissioning. This can be an invaluable service for companies who are experts in their own lines of work, but recognized the need for a subject matter expert to represent it.
Solar Portfolio Optimization Kimco Realty Corporation - White Plains, New York
Kimco Realty Corporation, a real estate investment trust headquartered in New Hyde Park, New York, is North America’s largest publicly traded owner and operator of open-air shopping centers. As of December 31, 2015, Kimco owned interests in 564 U.S. shopping centers comprising 90 million square feet of leasable space across 38 states and Puerto Rico. For Kimco, EcoMotion helped to strategize and target properties and opportunities for solar installations. After extensive roof-top analysis, a detailed case study of a mall in La Mirada, California highlighted key barriers – split incentives, varying leases, metering logistics, etc. – and pointed Kimco Realty, a REIT, toward a LLC position, rewriting leases and using rooftops and solar to create a new corporate profit center. Ultimately, three large solar installations were developed at shopping malls in New Jersey, capitalizing on strong incentives (through the SREC mechanism, Solar Renewable Energy Credits) and cold and wet winters that encourage enclosed malls.
Owner’s Representative Services Nikken Corporation - Irvine, California
Shortly after the successful completion of the Capital Group Companies solar system in Irvine, EcoMotion was approached by the Nikken Corporation to assess the viability of a proposed deal for its ample roof in Irvine. EcoMotion provided a thorough, objective analysis, recommending to Nikken that it proceed with solar with its select contractor which it did with great success. As with simplehuman, the work for Nikken was quick and low cost, assuring its corporate owner of a fair and beneficial solar deal.
Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Agency - Solar Consulting Services
For the past eight years, EcoMotion has served as a solar consultant for Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the transit agency in LA that operates the trains and the buses. “Metro,” the local transportation agency, has more than 2,000 parcels of land in the greater Los Angeles area that we’ve scoured for solar. Our team has guided Metro to its best solar opportunities given rate offsets, rooftops, development plans, and unique considerations.
Over the years, our roles have been many and varied, from analyzing best sites for solar and supporting procurement of additional solar, to providing technical training classes on photovoltaic (PV) safety and maintenance procedures. For years, EcoMotion has been on point in the ongoing performance monitoring and maintenance of Metro’s solar systems, troubleshooting and maintaining production.
Solar Santa Monica - Santa Monica, California
EcoMotion has worked for the City of Santa Monica since 2007, helping to make it one of the greenest cities in the country. EcoMotion developed and has managed the Solar Santa Monica program, a program that helps residents, businesses, schools, the college, and the City itself go solar. Since its beginning, Solar Santa Monica has helped increase installed solar capacity by a factor of twelve, with capacity installed rising from only 476 kW of capacity to now well over 10 MW.
EcoMotion’s solar financial and spatial analysis for Santa Monica solar sites now includes pairing solar with storage and EV charging. Over the years, EcoMotion has provided a breadth of services to the City — from household audits for solar and efficiency, to crafting stage legislation for a feed-in tariff, to providing testimony at the California Public Utilities Commission, and beating a steady drum advocating solar in the City. At this time, any resident or business in the City can call Solar Santa Monica for technical assistance and financial analysis provided by EcoMotion.
Solar Feasibility and Strategic Evaluation The Port of Long Beach - Long Beach, California
TRC Solutions, in partnership with EcoMotion, was one of four firms qualified by the Port of Long Beach to serve its consulting needs regarding energy management. EcoMotion serves as the solar consultant in the project, and one of our first works was to estimate the solar potential on site using different technologies and financial arrangements. This potentials analysis was part of a broader renewable energy analysis compiled by TRC experts.
Solar for the City - Beverly Hills, California
The City of Beverly Hills hired EcoMotion to provide solar consulting services in a very specific scope of work. Our first task was to evaluate the operations and efficacy of the Beverly Hills Civic Center solar system. Next we evaluated all other municipal facilities for their solar potential. Both tasks were completed and reported to City officials. We found a solar system operating sub-optimally, and got it fixed. We found only marginally viable solar deals at many parking structures. An interesting next step will be to evaluate if the City can spur solar on homes and businesses. If so, the City’s original plan of bundling City-facility solar (perhaps on a half dozen sites or more) with home and business-owners’ installations may be viable.
Solar at Miami City Hall - Miami, Florida
Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, incoming Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Mayors at the time, was searching for a demonstration of the City’s commitment to greening and to justify its honor as America’s cleanest city. Working for EcoMedia, EcoMotion recommended unique solar structures – able to withstand hurricane winds – to be ground-mounted at the historic Miami City Hall. EcoMotion found a local company able to manufacture, assemble and install them. Thanks to capable partners at the City and contracting firms, the project was also done in record time – from City Council approval to camera crews at the ribbon cutting in less than three weeks.
In addition to solar, EcoMotion recommended storm-water management, efficient plumbing fixtures, and a complete lighting retrofit including demonstration T-5 lighting. Despite structural and architectural challenges at the historic Miami City Hall – it had formerly been a Pan Am Airlines airship terminal — the project was completed on time and on budget and received significant publicity.
The Miami City Hall demonstration was sponsored by EcoMedia, an environmental marketing company now owned by CBS. EcoMotion provided strategic direction and guided high profile, simultaneous projects in Florida and California to demonstrate “clean tech” solutions through public-private partnerships.
Spain 2008 Solar Research Tour - Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Alicante, Barcelona
EcoMotion and Solar Energy International joined forces in 2008 and at the height of the Spanish feed-in tariffs for solar, EcoMotion arranged a tour for municipal leaders from California to visit Spain and to learn from leading policy makers, business leaders, and academicians while visiting research facilities and cutting-edge solar sites. With the highest solar insolation levels in all of Europe, and high feed-in tariff incentives, Spain surged in 2008 to the number two position in the world in solar installations after Germany.
The Spain 2008 Solar Research Tour started in Madrid then continued over the course of a week to Seville and Alicante to end in Barcelona. Following EcoMotion tradition, the group travelled by train and public transportation. Days were full, with different guided tours, presentations by leading professional industry groups and researchers.
German 2007 Solar Research Tour - Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, Freiburg
In October 2007, EcoMotion led a tour of city officials to Germany to study its remarkable Feed-in Tariff. Begun in 2004, in three years Germany became the leading nation in the world for solar deployment. The tour began in Berlin where we met government officials, then toured the Conergy photovoltaic plant on the Polish border, before heading to Munich, Stuttgart, and Freiberg. Participants travelled by train and visited the world’s leading laboratories – including the Fraunhofer Institute — and solar installations, including the world’s largest PV plant at the time, owned by the Juwi Group.
Solar Flags at Schools - Sponsored by the City of Anaheim, California
For the City of Anaheim’s electric utility – Anaheim Public Utilities – EcoMotion managed the selection of elementary school sites and the installation of eight, 1 kW AC “Solar Flags” as a demonstration project. At each site, EcoMotion organized “solar rallies” that involved the entire school, performances, songs, and celebration. Just as the American flag reminds us each and every day of our great country, the Solar Flags bring renewable energy onto the campus as an everyday reminder for students and teachers of the power of the sun, and the promise of a truly sustainable society. EcoMotion program enhancements include website monitoring and ongoing teacher training.
And imagine the leverage of such a program! EcoMotion engaged Rahus Institute and developed a simple solar curriculum to accompany the Flags. “Have you had a solar conversation with your parents?” “Got a good, sunny roof?” Students go home and check it out with their parents. “Got a power bill?” While the Solar Flags on eight Anaheim campuses are small in terms of solar generating capacity, their message is profound as it extended into the community.
The Solar Alley at Long Beach Airport Long Beach, California - Long Beach Airport Solar Alley
For New York environmental marketing company, EcoMedia, EcoMotion served as project designer and manager for a high-visibility demonstration solar project in Long Beach, California. Erected over a three-week period, and under challenging, nighttime construction conditions, the Long Beach Airport “Solar Alley” consists of six, 1 kW AC pole-mounted dual-axis trackers ranged near the baggage pick-up. They operate like water ballet… shifting positions in timed concert by degrees throughout the day. Every month, thousands of arriving passengers are greeted by the solar systems and their accompanying signage. The use of Sanyo semi-translucent, bifacial panels provides clear images of the panels as they harvest photons for the airport. Recently, the airport added a new concourse with solar, furthering its commitment to a clean power future at this gateway location.
Orange County Great Park - Irvine, California
EcoMotion served as a solar advisor for the Orange County Great Park, examining sites for solar system investments, partnerships, and demonstrations. One option under consideration was that of a community solar park, such that residents near the park could own shares of the system and be paid virtually for their power. A presentation to the Great Park Corporation included nine options for solar at the Park, from community solar to utility-scale solar, to comprehensive net zero building of all new construction and deep retrofits of all existing facilities — all requiring maximum use of the sun — to innovative demonstrations, perhaps shading the sides of sports field, or dual-axis trackers that like sunflowers track the sun throughout the day, or a pronounced entry way to the park featuring solar.
Clean Power Alliance - Energy Resilient Buildings / Microgrids
For the past three years, EcoMotion has been immersed in analyzing all types of municipal buildings and determining how to provide both solar and storage to create energy resiliency. The Clean Power Alliance, the Nation’s largest community choice aggregator, selected EcoMotion in to develop up to 32 energy resiliency projects – microgrids – in its member agencies’ facilities through its Power Ready Program. Working with member agencies, EcoMotion evaluated over 120 sites for the program throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. In depth spatial and financial evaluations were done to measure each systems’ economics. In cases, detailed roofing and electrical assessments were done on site. This work involved Shell Roofing, Avila Partners, and Point Energy Innovations engineering.
The select facilities will provide local energy resilience. They will also serve as models for communities nationwide that are responding to climate change-induced calamities. Power Ready integrates solar, storage, and microgrid controls to provide energy and environmental savings, while reserving battery capacity for emergencies to cover critical loads. EcoMotion has supported CPA through the site assessment process and the procurement process, helping to identify suitable vendors, and evaluating their proposals for systems on 11 sites.
East Bay Community Energy – Energy Resilient Buildings
In 2021, EcoMotion was selected by East Bay Community Energy to support its Energy Resilient Buildings program. This Bay Area CCA, with its consultant, ARUP, had identified over 300 municipal buildings that were candidates for resilience – to be hardened such that if the grid goes down, they can sustain some base level of operations.
EcoMotion’s solar team visited dozens of sites in the Bay Area, notably in Berkeley and Hayward. Our team dug deeply into all prospective municipal facilities, from police stations to fire departments to community centers. We have expert subs: Point Energy Innovations electrical engineers, KPFF structural engineers, and Blue’s Roofing. A portfolio of projects was developed for each city; dossiers were developed for each project site with thorough detail and data.
Community Solar Plants
In 2012, EcoMotion developed a partnership with the Clean Energy Collective in Colorado, the leading developer of “community solar plants.” This solar option allows for apartment dwellers, renters, and those without suitable “roof real estate” to “go solar” through a community system. EcoMotion worked with Clean Energy Collective founder and CEO, Paul Spencer, to introduce his brand of community solar to California utilities… from San Diego Gas and Electric, to Anaheim, Los Angeles, Pasadena, PG&E and SMUD. In the CEC model, consumers own assets and are compensated for their power generation for 50 years. Currently, EcoMotion is working for Metro in planning for community solar within communities impacted by rail development.
Burbank Water and Power Solar System Performance Verification
For Burbank Water and Power and since 2008, EcoMotion has provided technical support for the Solar Support Rebate Program. In this capacity, the EcoMotion solar team has verified solar installations – including numbers and types of panels and inverters, etc. – and confirmed solar potential for newly constructed installations. EcoMotion worked with BWP to develop reporting procedures and requirements.
Anaheim Public Utilities Solar System Performance Verification
For Anaheim Public Utilities and since 2012, EcoMotion’ solar team has verified solar installations – including numbers and types of panels and inverters, etc. – and confirmed solar potential for newly constructed installations. EcoMotion worked with APU to develop reporting procedures and requirements and continues to flag issues from the field.
In addition to solar field verifications, EcoMotion supports APU in different situations, one involving the Trider Apartment Complex in Anaheim where a solar system installation was hugely out of line. We found that its installer was grossly unqualified and the installation was unsafe and largely inoperable. EcoMotion inspected the system, reported its deficiencies to APU and the owner, and then made arrangements on behalf of the owner with a reputable installer to repair the system and support the owner through a challenging lawsuit.
Chula Vista Elementary School District – Solar Consulting Services
Chula Vista Elementary School District hired EcoMotion in February 2019 to provide a comprehensive solar and storage feasibility study for each of its 47 campuses and facilities. EcoMotion reported to CVESD’s board that the 8.1 MW project would save $66 – 88 million depending on how it was financed. In March 2020, the District was awarded bonding authority for the project, allowing for 100% solar at every campus and with no money down enabling over $80 million in savings over a 25-year period. The project also involves a solar-powered microgrid at the District Office to back up critical communications and IT systems.
To frame up the project, EcoMotion completed analysis of interval bill data, SDG&E rate structures and time-of-use periods, as well as spatial and financial analysis of all sites. With Board enthusiasm, EcoMotion spearheaded the effort to develop an RFP, to identify suitable firms for installation, and managed the procurement process. In the midst of a pandemic, EcoMotion facilitated a virtual proposers conference for the solar project. With thirteen firms in attendance, EcoMotion showcased all 49 campuses. All systems are now built and interconnected. Currently, EcoMotion tracks system performance through Engie’s Utility Vision system to assure each array’s operation and to measure each system’s performance.
Fremont Unified School District - Solar and Storage Analysis
In 2022, EcoMotion supported facilities officials at the Fremont Unified School District in its evaluation of two proposals for solar and storage. The proposals were each strong; one presented by Tesla and the other by Forefront. The analysis considered solar and storage at each of the District’s campuses. EcoMotion’s work culminated in a Board presentation with an objective review of the District’s options as well as EcoMotion’s recommendations.
Huntington Beach City School District – Solar Forensic Analysis
For Huntington Beach City School District, EcoMotion performed a full solar forensic analysis of two sets of aging solar arrays there. The new facilities director wanted a complete review of their operations and value to the District, and to know whether costly maintenance was warranted. The systems were installed in 2010 by Chevron at a cost of $7.28 million, and in 2011 at a cost of $7.5 million. EcoMotion examined the solar systems on each campus in detail, taking note of conditions and identifying broken panels in the process.
This site evaluation was then coupled with detailed evaluation of the monitoring system and the solar arrays’ performance. EcoMotion was able to easily tell which arrays were the best and worst performers. The financial analysis revealed how the Edison rates have actually escalated, and how the performance guarantees had been met, largely by banking early solar production prior to the contract effective date. EcoMotion provided detailed financials and recommendations to the District.
Mountain View School District - Solar Works
Mountain View School District had been through a failed solar process the year before, and called EcoMotion to resuscitate the District’s desire for solar. EcoMotion was hired to serve as the District’s owners representative and began with a thorough, impartial feasibility analysis. With Board approval, this led to a procurement process for the ten-campus project. EcoMotion is currently providing project oversight and quality control, working on behalf of the District with Luminace on installation, complicated by trees, easements, and tight summer schedules on several campuses.
Orange Unified School District - Solar Works
For Orange Unified School District, EcoMotion twice served as subject matter expert in procurement processes for solar power, the first for 13 campuses in 2018, and the second for 10 campuses in 2020. EcoMotion worked with OUSD officials to determine the locations for solar, followed by independent financial analysis of the value of solar at each site. EcoMotion crafted Requests for Proposals and helped the District evaluate proposers, and contract with them.
The Fall 2020 solicitation featured a successful Virtual Solar System Job Walk. EcoMotion’s two-hour, online job walk presented the District’s specifications for each site, proposed array and meter locations, and construction coordination details. EcoMotion presented aerial and photographic images, reinforced with a Google Drive complete with comprehensive site plans, utility interval data, etc. In each case, Ameresco was selected to finance, build, own, and operate on behalf of the District and through a power purchase agreement.
EcoMotion has also provided performance monitoring and verification services of its two sets of solar arrays for OUSD. Once the first set of campuses were outfitted with solar, EcoMotion analyzed the performance of these eight solar systems. This was Board direction: Before moving forward with solar on another 12 sites, the Board wanted to be sure of system performance and that all schools have been properly migrated to the correct utility rate. With access to billing data, EcoMotion assessed each site and flagged discrepancies in performance and rate structures.
Park Century School – Solar and Storage
For the Park Century School, EcoMotion serves as a solar and storage advisor. The school has been adding a multipurpose facility, sandwiched in a pizza pie shape between two facilities, one of its own. The design includes subterranean parking – with stacked cars tied to EV chargers, outdoor areas and multipurpose rooms. A large solar awning was envisioned by John Berry Architects. EcoMotion worked with John Berry and his associates advising on solar configurations and technologies. We examined several architectural glass products. Later our team calculated the solar performance of different designs. The storage analysis was tricky given space constraints and the option of night-time charging for the community.
Rescue Union School District - Solar Support Services
In December 2022, EcoMotion received a call from Rescue Union School District officials about the prospect of helping the District go solar in time to maintain the benefits of Net Energy Metering 2. By April 14, 2023, the District would have to be comfortable with the feasibility of going solar using a power purchase agreement (PPA). It would have to have gone through a competitive solicitation to select a contractor, have a contract finalized, and have the contractor finalize each campus’s design to submit before the deadline. Many pieces had to align, and did. EcoMotion managed the process and met the deadline.
Solar for Warner Unified School District - Warner Springs, California
EcoMotion was hired by the Warner Unified School District to represent its interests in a “deposit lease” structure being offered for a solar system on campus. It was an intriguing deal involving a benefactor as well as tax equity partners and discounted power for the school. For legal reasons, the District rejected the no-money-down financial model. Ultimately, EcoMotion convinced the benefactor to use EcoMotion’s Benefactor Investment Model, actually forming a new variant, BIM-R… the R standing for revolving. By forming an LLC, and monetizing tax credits and depreciation benefits, the benefactor was able to drive down the cost of solar and then provide deeply discounted power to the school through a power purchase agreement. The PPA revenues to the benefactor then revolve into the next project.
Solar and Emergency Back-Up Santa Rita Union School District - Salinas, California
EcoMotion is currently working for the Santa Rita Union School District located in Salinas, California. Salinas, with a population of 150,000, is in the heart of agricultural Monterey County, known as “the Salad Bowl of the World.” Our work for the six-campus SRUSD involved two activities: First, we’ve been asked to explore the use of battery storage systems for emergency back-up. The District has placed a high priority on six-hour storage to be able to keep students safely at school in the event of a power outage. The second task has been to examine the value of solar to the District. Our team analyzed bills for each campus and the District office (as well as adjacent Monterey County offices), conducted thorough site assessments, calculated emergency back-up requirements, and then evaluated energy and dollar savings opportunities for solar systems combined with rate switches. With Board approval, EcoMotion crafted and released a Request for Proposals for the District seeking emergency back-up (be it batteries or other forms of backup, including traditional generators) and an aggregate of 1 MW of solar. Bidders proposed one or both service options.
Solar for the New Gymnasium Santa Rosa Academy - Menifee, California
For the past six months, and as part of its Prop 39 work, EcoMotion has been working with the Santa Rosa Academy to develop a solar project, first exploring the school’s options, and then focusing in on the school’s direction and the rooftop of its new gym. EcoMotion coordinated this solicitation with the school’s architect and builder, crafting a request for proposals, managing job walk and bidders’ questions, and making a recommendation to the school on a select contractor.
Solar for Student Housing University of Southern California - Los Angeles, California
In 2015, EcoMotion was hired by University of Southern California to assess its solar opportunities in student housing. EcoMotion’s solar team evaluated all sites for solar, measuring rooftops, conducting shading analysis, and noting roof conditions. These perspectives and data sets were then married with financial analysis, verifying rate structures and thus the value of solar on each facility.
First Phase Solar Garden Grove Unified School District Garden - Grove, California
EcoMotion is currently working for the Garden Grove Unified School District as its Proposition 39 manager, and in this capacity has introduced and advocated solar on campuses. Given Southern California Edison’s rate options, the District could save money and lots of it. EcoMotion’s solar team analyzed every school campus for solar, as well as the district office and its maintenance facilities, and found that in every case solar would save money for GGUSD while teaching students about taking climate action, and providing teachers and others with shaded parking. EcoMotion has made numerous presentations on the solar potentials, supported an RFP process that was scuttled, and continues to support solar as the District looks at bonding options for select campuses.
Additional Solar and Storage Steps Poway Unified School District - Poway, California
EcoMotion is currently working for the Poway Unified School District as its Proposition 39 manager, and in this capacity has supported the District in its review of solar on campus. The District has four systems in place already, and we evaluated these contracsts and the systems’ performances. We ran simulations of the value of solar on a number of high-using campuses, and found attractive economics. We reviewed and commented on the District’s desired power purchase agreement for limited solar on a number of its modulars. One contract review by EcoMotion seemed quite successful in lowering the PPA rate.
100% Solar Powered Millbrook School Solar - Millbrook, New York
EcoMotion has served as Millbrook School’s carbon neutrality advisor, developing a plan to cut emissions to zero over time. The first phase resulted in the completion of a 1.735 MW solar system that now powers the School’s entire annual electricity use. After winning a $1.25 million incentive from the State of New York, EcoMotion helped the school secure a fixed 7.5 cent per kilowatt-hour price for the solar, with a zero percent escalator for 20 years, and Millbrook retains and can retire the RECs.
EcoMotion’s role in the process was sequential. We began fielding a call from a passionate faculty member. She’d received several cold call quotes for solar, and wanted help. But back up, school leadership would have to be brought on board. After several presentations, EcoMotion was brought on board by the school to represent it in solar exploration, and if favorable, its negotiation.
EcoMotion developed and released an RFP to qualified solar installation firms seeking cash and PPA pricing. We developed the Benefactor Investment Model assuming that we would need “friendly” capital to finance the system given that region of New York’s very low power rates. And then, after receiving a NYSERDA grant for $1.25 million, we were able to get the highly favorable PPA rate.
EcoMotion continued to serve as project manager throughout the construction period, addressing concerns and ongoing issues. There was a glitch: The interconnection study determine that there was a low power factor already in that part of the distribution network, and that we would not be able to interconnect without $580,000 dollars of cost. We’d allocated $250,000, hoping it would be much lower. Ultimately we were able to decrease the power factor on the solar system – resulting in 5% less kWh output – and to thus interconnect at a cost under the original placeholder. The eight-acre system is now operating as planned, providing 100% of the School’s power.
“The No-Cost AASHE Special” Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education - Denver, Colorado
From 2013 through 2015, EcoMotion had the great privilege to partner with the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and to serve as a solar advisor to its members. In 2016, and absent a formal contract renewal with AASHE, EcoMotion elected to continue to serve all AASHE members with the same service. Since then our solar team has had the great opportunity to work with solar advocates on campuses across the country. Our solar provides up to 10 hours of no-cost initial project consultation for AASHE’s campus 890+ members. “Just give us a call!”
Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District - Santa Monica, California
Working as consultants through Solar Santa Monica, EcoMotion successfully negotiated a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between a financier, solar contractor, and the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District. The 745 kW AC deal, providing for systems on nine schools, had been log-jammed until EcoMotion’s analysis and advocacy clarified and amended the originally proposed terms.
A Wave of Solar on Campuses Los Angeles Unified School District - Los Angeles, California
With over 2,000 campuses, LAUSD is the largest school district in California. In 2010 it was authorized with bonding authority for solar systems on LAUSD schools. EcoMotion joined an “all-star” solar team to prepare a pragmatic solar strategy that included a screening system for site selection. This involved roof age, material and condition; interconnection requirements; bill offset based on a myriad of rate structures; shade and wind analysis; and balancing technical opportunities with impacting young students and their families with positive renewable energy messages. EcoMotion reviewed dozens of sites for the District, paving the way for 10 solar systems on LAUSD campuses.
Campus-Wide Solar Feasibility Santa Monica College - Santa Monica, California
EcoMotion has a six-year history working with Santa Monica College (SMC) in Santa Monica, California. We continue to serve on the colleges renewable energy committee. Our solar team analyzed the entire campus for its solar potential, and was instrumental in developing and continuing to refine the College’s solar strategy.
EcoMotion’s SMC solar scoping study detailed a 16-rooftop solar potential, complete with financial analysis. Meshing strategically with campus facilities improvements, EcoMotion identified a 1.2 MW potential. The College began the first phase of construction in 2009 and in the Fall of 2010 completed two systems mounted on parking lots, for a total of 408 kilowatts DC. The deal was enables by Chevron Energy Services, financing that combined energy efficiency with solar.
The College has made plans to expand its solar capacity with another 515 kW to be spread across four different buildings. EcoMotion supports the college in a number of ways – keeping facilities officials up to date on incentives and regulatory changes, and connecting certified contractors with College officials, and serving on an advisory board. Concurrently, EcoMotion advised the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District on an eight-school solar installation enabled by a power purchase agreement that provided 100% financing to the district.
A Solar Donation University of Phoenix to the Boys and Girls Club - Pomona, California
The site is the Boys and Girls Club of Pomona Valley, and it’s Earth Day. There’s a special celebration for the new 5 kW solar system on its roof. University of Phoenix hired EcoMotion to design the initiative, locate suitable sites, and work with the select site through installation and commissioning. EcoMotion managed the process of selecting the recipient, the right roof and the right contractor for the job.
The select recipient was Pomona Valley. The University of Phoenix then donated the money for the system, managed by EcoMotion. Victor Caceres, Executive Director of the Pomona Valley Club, served as Master of Ceremonies of the ribbon-cutting ceremony, noting that the demonstration project will help educate future generations about their role in sustaining our natural resources, and that the club will benefit from monthly utility-bill savings for the next 25 years.
Rapid Campus Solar Analysis Life Pacific College - San Dimas, California
For Life Pacific College in San Dimas, California, EcoMotion provided a third-party analysis of the solar potential of a “perfect roof” on the new campus gymnasium. Despite the positive solar production potential, EcoMotion ultimately advised against the project based on the client’s utility rate structure and the College’s economic parameters.