On June 2nd, 2011, National Grid presented a $225,000 Renewable Energy and Economic Development grant to the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) of the University at Albany to help enable a green energy initiative that will establish a Photovoltaic Control and Monitoring Center (PVCMC) at CNSE's Albany NanoTech Complex.

Furthering our partnership with The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering our EYP Energy team members and Alteris Renewables will work with CNSE to develop, install and demonstrate the solar monitoring center to assist photovoltaic system designers and installers with data to accelerate the construction of roof-mounted solar conversion systems. The PVCMC will enable gathering of real-time research data that will provide designers, architects and installers with critical feedback to accelerate the construction and integration of roof-mounted PV systems across New York, fueling increased deployment of green energy in homes and businesses.

Part of a $1.35 million solar demonstration program to analyze photovoltaic technology, the goal of this project is to develop low-cost methods that will entice more businesses and residences to install solar energy system.

This grant comes as the first to be awarded in eastern New York as part of National Grid's Renewable Energy and Economic Development Program will support future solar power generation systems across New York State.

EYP's Energy Sector Leader, Bob Kennedy explains "This is a unique opportunity to be involved in the detailed performance of several different types of PV panels, mounted at slightly different angles. We'll be directing some CNSE students in the optimal method to collect & analyze the performance data correlated to weather data (including cloud cover). Along with other CNSE partners, we're also investigating adding a combination of batteries and capacitors to help deliver a continuous, predictable level of power."