The Bright Thinking in Solar

Latest Press Releases

Unirac’s SolarMount-I Chosen by Arise Solar for 200kW Installation to Power Residential Apartment Complex

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, August 30, 2010—Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) racking solutions, has been selected by Arise Solar for a project to power the Paigewood Village Apartments in Orland, California. Arise Solar worked with distributor CED Greentech San Diego to select the just-launched Unirac product, and CED Greentech was instrumental in bringing knowledge of this new technology to its client.

According to Glenn Siemens, Arise Solar CEO, SolarMount-I was chosen for the Paigewood Village project because it was flashed properly at the roof attachment and offered a snap-in railing installation method. “In addition, we were able to save approximately $8,000 in material costs versus our previous installation method,” he states.

Jake Marshall, sales associate with CED Greentech San Diego, asserts their quick success with SolarMount-I was based on Unirac’s comprehensive guidance. “I was able to sell this new product on a fairly large scale because Unirac provided proper resources and training so that I could, in turn, explain SolarMount-I’s benefits to my customer.” He credits SolarMount-I’s fast adoption in the market to its technical superiority. “It merges the benefits of CLICKSYS with a heavy-duty application rated for higher winds. This product is creating a buzz around our office and I believe it will be very successful for our customers,” he explains.

Arise Solar was also pleased by the level of customer service exhibited by Unirac. “Unirac’s technical support has been pivotal in helping us understand how the system is installed and how to estimate materials. Unirac has exceeded my expectations and I am getting ready to place my next project order,” states Siemens.

Unirac CEO Douglas May says the early response to SolarMount-I has been terrific. “The customer-friendly design and robust beam system offers a quick-to-install and cost-effective solution. We are confident SolarMount-I will prove to be one of our best-selling solutions for the residential PV market.”

SolarMount-I delivers peace-of-mind with comprehensive documentation and user-friendly engineering reports—geared to facilitate the design and installation process. Online support includes a specification tool, webinars, and installation videos located at http://www.unirac.com/technical-support/ SolarMount-I is available nationwide from Unirac’s network of stocking distributors. Visit http://www.unirac.com/distributors/ to find a distributor nearest you.

Unirac Revolutionizes Residential PV Mounting with
Introduction of SolarMount-I

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, July 13, 2010 — Unirac Inc., North America's leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, unveiled its SolarMount-I™ system, an innovative new click-system mounting solution offering better value and installation ease for the residential PV market.

The SolarMount-I solution is now available in two beam strengths, making the innovative PV mounting system applicable in most wind zones across the United States. Building on the peace of mind you’ve come to expect from Unirac, the SolarMount I-Series features an optimized I-beam design, demonstrating excellent strength to weight ratio while providing features that speed the installation process.

“The best just got better,” said Douglas May, Unirac CEO. “While everyone else was busy trying to keep up with Unirac’s SolarMount technology, we were busy engineering amazing new features and support programs that make SolarMount-I faster to install, easier to use, and more available than ever. We’re confident the market will embrace the SolarMount-I solution for its versatility and performance as well as its ability to reduce labor and installation cost.”

Engineered for flush mounting applications, SolarMount-I offers the one of the lowest total installed cost and best value in the industry. With no drilling required and “click and secure” connections eliminating the need for nuts and bolts, SolarMount-I gets installers off the roof in nearly half the time when compared to competitive products.

Featuring an unprecedented number of attachments for tile and shingle roofs, SolarMount-I offers installation freedom and flexibility on a variety of roofing types and supports most PV modules.

“We compared many PV mounting systems before selecting Unirac’s SolarMount-I,” said Jeffrey Serylo, manager of Milholland Electric. “We chose SolarMount-I because it’s not just a product, but a complete solution. We’ve calculated significant labor savings because it is easier to install than competitive offerings.”

SolarMount-I also delivers unparalleled peace-of-mind with extensive documentation and easy to use engineering reports to make this mounting solution easier to design, quicker to install and more cost effective from purchase to installation. Go to www.unirac.com for instant access to all documentation and a wide variety of online tools including a specification tool, webinars and installation videos.

SolarMount-I is conveniently available nationwide now from Unirac's network of stocking distributors. Visit www.unirac.com to find the distributor nearest you.

Unirac Launches Non-penetrating Attachment for Seamed Metal Roofs

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, June 23, 2010 – Unirac Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, today announced an exclusive agreement with IMP, Inc. to market and sell the ACECLAMP JR®, the fastest, simplest and most cost effective non-penetrating solution for raised seamed metal roofs.

The ACECLAMP JR, combines innovative technology with experienced customer input to deliver requirements for reduced installation time and increased labor savings. A unique, top-inserted single screw fastener allows for easier installs compared to competitive products that require multiple screws inserted from the side.

The flexibility of the design allows the ACECLAMP JR to accommodate a large number of the leading standing metal seam profiles supplied by the industry's leading manufacturers, subsequently reducing the need for stocking multiple clamp sizes. In addition, the ACECLAMP JR supports both 1/4” and 3/8” mounting hardware and will maintain the roofing system’s warranty.

“Our customers have come to count on Unirac to deliver the most installer-friendly PV mounting technology in the industry,” said Douglas May, Unirac CEO. “We are pleased to offer the ACECLAMP JR, a superior mounting solution for seamed roof PV installations. We are committed to fueling the renewable energy industry by finding new solutions that deliver reduce costs and speed installation time.”

The ACECLAMP JR boasts a wider attachment surface, improving load distribution and fewer roof surface scratches, resulting in decreased damage and corrosion, when compared to competitive solutions.

“We are excited about the new ACECLAMP attachment for seamless metal roofs because it gives us a product that integrates with Unirac rail systems,” said Jesse Stubbs, president and CEO of Solar Solutions and Distribution. “We anticipate significant labors savings from our contractors because of the ease of installation.”

The ACECLAMP JR is conveniently available nationwide from Unirac's network of North American stocking distributors. Visit www.unirac.com to find a stocking distributor near you. As always, Unirac offers full technical support on this exciting new solution, including installation guidelines, online video instruction, technical data sheets, and more.

Spire Corporation Chooses Unirac and CLICKSYS
to Support 1.6MW Solar Project

Albuquerque, New Mexico, June 8, 2010—Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, has been chosen by Spire Corporation to supply a 1.6MW installation featuring CLICKSYS on four separate BJ’s Wholesale Club locations in Massachusetts and New Jersey.

The total capacity of the four sites will be 1.6MW with the largest system comprised of 2,100 modules. The installation on standing-seam metal roofs will produce nearly 540,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually- -approximately 22 percent of the Club’s yearly electrical needs. The two locations in Massachusetts were completed in May; the two New Jersey locations will be completed this summer.

“The Spire Corporation project with BJ’s showcases the versatility of our products,” said Unirac CEO Douglas May. “The use of our CLICKSYS residential system made sense for this commercial project due to the low cost and speed of installation.”

Engineered for flush roof mounting applications, CLICKSYS offers superior aesthetics with great value and is easily installed on most roofing types. Roberto Bachman, Spire Engineering Manager, explained that Spire Corp recognized the practicality and superior cost-savings of CLICKSYS and its ability to speed installation on BJ's standing-seam roofs. "It was a good low-cost solution which was easy to work with on this sloped roof application," he said.

CLICKSYS features customer-friendly “click and secure” connections that eliminate the need for nuts and bolts. CLICKSYS gets installers off the roof in nearly half the time when compared to other competitive products.

Unirac’s Commercial and Utility Group is a support team dedicated to supplying a complete suite of services that ensure accurate product installation. Personalized for each customer, these services include structural design, on-site installer training, delivery logistics, and field support.

Rosendin Electric, Inc. Selects Unirac to Support 1.15MW
San Jose International Airport Solar Project

Albuquerque, New Mexico, June 1, 2010—Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, is pleased to have been selected by Rosendin Electric Inc. to supply their ISYS Roof Mount custom racking solution for a 1.15MW solar array atop the Mineta San Jose International Airport rental car and public parking garage. The sizable array will consist of 4,700 PV panels covering 3.4-acres of the roof.

ISYS Roof Mount, Unirac’s groundbreaking flat roof solution selected by Rosendin for the project, is the PV mounting solution of choice for mid- to large-size commercial and utility installations. “ISYS Roof Mount is the perfect solution for this project by providing versatility and performance, while simultaneously reducing labor and costs,” states Unirac CEO Douglas May. “Unirac’s Commercial and Utility Group worked closely with Rosendin to ensure a seamless installation that adheres to the project’s strict timeline and budgetary considerations.”

This project marks Unirac’s first working partnership with Rosendin, “Our innovative spirit and comprehensive customer support complement Rosendin’s well-earned reputation for quality and service. We look forward to fostering a synergistic relationship with Rosendin to provide dynamic products and services to the renewable energy market,” adds May.

“Unirac’s Commercial and Utility Group delivered a cost effective PV mounting system that was flexible and fast to install,” said Rosendin’s Project Manager, Don Dixon. “Our experience proved to us that Unirac has the resources and technical expertise to support commercial- and utility-scale projects.”

ISYS Roof Mount is a versatile PV structural solution that requires zero field fabrication. In terms of time and cost efficiency, ISYS Roof Mount offers outstanding value. The ISYS Roof Mount also has 30% fewer parts than competitive systems, ensuring quick set-up with consistent and repeatable installation steps.

The configurable design accommodates 0-30 degree module tilt and enables customers to maximize their project’s power production. ISYS Roof Mount utilizes Unirac’s patented I-beam components that demonstrate superior strength to weight ratio to withstand the demanding wind conditions that occur at San Jose’s airport parking facility (particularly at a height of seven stories).

ISYS Roof Mount is backed by Unirac’s new Commercial and Utility Group, a support team dedicated to supplying a complete suite of services that ensure every project installs flawlessly. Personalized for each customer, these services include engineering and structural design, on-site installer training, delivery logistics, and field support.

Unirac is a recognized leader in the PV mounting market with industry-leading technology and a breadth of product solutions and services designed to meet the needs of any type of solar installation.

The energy requirements of the seven story airport garage will allow on-site rental car companies to wash and fuel vehicles within the single structure. The solar array is estimated to provide up to 20 percent of the garage’s energy needs. The solar installation is part of the airport’s ongoing expansion project and is expected to be fully operational by early June. The garage will provide parking spaces for 3,500 vehicles.

Hilti acquires U.S.-based solar company Unirac

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, May 4, 2010—Hilti Group is extending its North American presence in the fastest growing and highest potential solar market in the world with the purchase of Unirac Inc., a U.S.-based leading provider of photovoltaic (PV) solar mounting solutions.

The combination of Hilti and Unirac broadens both companies’ product portfolio and enhances their current market reach and service to provide unique opportunities for customers as they develop their solar sites. While Hilti gains significant share in the PV mounting business in North America, Unirac extends its reach through Hilti’s global presence.

As we strengthen our position in a challenging economy, we are investing in new business opportunities like solar where there is significant growth potential,” said Bo Risberg, Hilti Group CEO. “Our companies are an ideal fit because together we can offer a full range of solutions for customers who serve the residential, commercial and utility markets.”

Coupled with Unirac’s established manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure, solar engineering expertise and strong channel partners, Hilti further secures its position as a leading player and preferred partner for PV mounting solutions for solar applications in all market segments.

Unirac will continue to be based in Albuquerque, N.M., and operate under its existing name and management structure led by President and CEO Doug May.

“Unirac has been highly successful in providing the PV mounting market with industry-leading technology and a range of product solutions and services,” Doug said. “We are extremely excited about applying Hilti’s broad base of expertise in serving the professional contractor market around the world to accelerate the tremendous growth opportunities in the North American and global solar markets.”

Hilti is purchasing Unirac from the Global Environment Fund (GEF), a U.S.-based private equity firm investing growth capital in companies throughout the world.

“Since our purchase of Unirac in 2006, the company has grown its revenues profitably at an annual growth rate of approximately 55 percent,” said GEF Managing Director Lisa Schule. “Unirac’s success is a testament to the quality of the company’s management team and a validation of GEF’s strategy of investing in companies with practical and proven clean energy solutions.”

Unirac Announces Manufacturing Capability in Ontario, Canada

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, April 7, 2010—Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, announced today they are currently manufacturing products in Ontario, Canada, which meet all Ontario Power Authority local-content requirements.

Locally manufactured residential and light commercial racking products are available today, with commercial and utility racking products also available and shipping in late April. This significant milestone demonstrates Unirac’s commitment to the Canadian market. It also signifies a direct response to Ontario’s pioneering FIT and MicroFIT programs, which offer attractive renewable energy compensation rates for solar installation customers.  

“Canada is a growing market for solar energy due to the country’s proactive FIT and MicroFIT programs. We applaud Ontario Power Authority’s support of solar energy and programs that allow homeowners and business owners the opportunity to make a sound financial investment that is also environmentally responsible,” said Doug May, president and CEO of Unirac. “By manufacturing our mounting solutions locally, we adhere to the programs’ local content requirements, contribute to local economic growth, and provide Canadian customers access to our innovative line of products that are the building blocks for superior solar installations.”

Unirac is a recognized leader in the PV mounting market with industry-leading technology and a breadth of product solutions and services designed to meet the needs of any type of solar installation. Initial product offerings in Canada will include Unirac’s SolarMount, ISYS Ground Mount, and ISYS Roof Mount systems.

SolarMount is the most versatile PV mounting rail system on the market today. Installer-friendly components have been engineered for maximum flexibility and allow for even the most challenging PV mounting solutions to attain accurate and superior results.

ISYS Ground Mount requires zero field fabrication—no welding, drilling, or cutting at the installation site, making it one of the fastest systems to install with consistent and repeatable installation steps. Engineered to accommodate any type of foundation option, ISYS Ground Mount is one of the easiest and most cost-effective solutions available in the marketplace today.

ISYS Roof Mount is a flat roof solution that requires zero field fabrication, and can be installed at a rate of 2-3kW per man hour. The configurable design accommodates 0-30 degree module tilt and enables customers to maximize their project’s power production. ISYS Roof Mount utilizes Unirac’s patented I-beam components that demonstrate superior strength to weight ratio to withstand the demanding wind, snow and ice conditions in Canada.

Unirac Chosen by Gexpro Electrical Distribution for 949kW Installation to Power Chicago Pumping Station

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, December 10, 2009—Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) racking solutions, has been selected by Gexpro Electrical Distribution to supply a ULA (Unirac Large Array) for one of the first solar initiatives in the Chicago area.

The custom ground mount solution for a 949 kW installation will help power Lexington Pumping Station, which transports water originating in Lake Michigan throughout Illinois’ DuPage County. Unirac’s Commercial and Utility Group assisted in designing the 4,745-module array that will power 25% of the pumping station’s daily energy needs.

“Our ability to offer custom hardware, as well as dedicated, professional services is what sets us apart in the mounting solutions industry,” says Douglas May, Unirac CEO. “We are pleased to have been an integral part of the City of Chicago’s effort to move into the renewable energy arena, and look forward to working with Gexpro on additional PV opportunities.”

According to Gexpro’s, Jim Watson, Unirac designers responded quickly to all modification requests. “Our experience proved to us that Unirac has the ability to contend with many variables such as wind speeds, snow accumulation, location challenges, and City ordinances, while offering outstanding support and service,” explained Watson. “We look forward to working with Unirac on a number of upcoming projects,” he added.

The ULA solution accommodates complex site and environmental conditions and outperforms other PV mounting structures on the market today. ULA aluminum or steel components merge with Unirac’s SolarMount rails to form durable, rigid truss structures. It's a cost-effective mounting solution that has grown with the vision of the PV industry. Today, Unirac solutions are routinely used to install hundreds of kilowatts, to megawatts per installation.

The ULA solution is backed by Unirac’s new Commercial and Utility Group, a support team dedicated to supplying a complete suite of services that ensure accurate product installation. Personalized for each customer, these services include structural design, on-site installer training, delivery logistics, and field support.

Unirac Launches New Commercial Roof Mount Solution

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, October 26, 2009—Unirac Inc., North America’s leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, unveiled its ISYS Roof Mount today. This latest product continues the company’s innovative approach to creating PV racking solutions that address customers’ needs and budgetary requirements.

The innovative roof mounting solution engineered for commercial and large scale utility applications will enjoy wide appeal for its optimization of design, cost effectiveness, and ease of installation. Unirac is showcasing the ISYS Roof Mount at Solar Power International 2009 in Anaheim, CA, from Oct. 27-29, 2009.

The ISYS Roof Mount is a revolutionary, non-penetrating roof mount solution that requires no ballast blocks or concrete in its assembly. It is positioned above roof obstacles—resulting in significant cost savings and preserving roofing integrity. The configurable design accommodates 0-30 degree module tilt to satisfy most solar capture requirements, and offers universal PV module attachment capability. In addition, the ISYS Roof Mount utilizes Unirac’s patented I-beam components that demonstrate excellent strength to weight ratio, and can withstand basic wind speeds up to 120 mph.

“We have redefined the industry standard with our groundbreaking ISYS Roof Mount solution,” says Juan Suarez, Unirac Director of Engineering and Program Management. “We’re confident the market will embrace the ISYS Roof Mount solution for its versatility and performance as well as its ability to reduce labor and cost for our customers.”

In terms of time and cost efficiency, ISYS Roof Mount offers outstanding value. With an installation rate of 2-3kW per man hour, it is one of the fastest and easiest roof mounts available today. In addition the ISYS Roof Mount has 30% fewer parts than competitive systems, ensuring quick set-up with consistent and repeatable installation steps. ISYS’ smart design also allows for pre-fabrication of sub-assemblies prior to delivery to project sites. The ISYS Roof Mount solution comes with a 20-year warranty.

According to Douglas May, Unirac’s CEO, Unirac once again exhibits its innovative spirit with the new ISYS Roof Mount solution. “We listen to our customers and respond with optimal mounting solutions that address a variety of module and site conditions. Unirac has come to be synonymous with leadership, integrity, and reliability—and our comprehensive line of racking solutions are key structural building blocks for the renewable energy industry.”

The ISYS Roof Mount solution is backed by Unirac’s new Commercial and Utility Group, a support team dedicated to supplying a complete suite of services that ensure accurate product installation. Personalized for each customer, these services include structural design, on-site installer training, delivery logistics, and field support.

To learn more about the complete line-up of Unirac PV mounting solutions and services, visit the Unirac booth, #1615, at Solar Power International 2009, in Anaheim, CA, from October 27-29, 2009.

 

Recent Articles

SunWize Launches New Grid-Tie System Product Line Incorporating SANYO N-Series

June 25, 2009. SunWize Technologies, Inc., the industry's premier provider of solar electric solutions, has incorporated the new SANYO N Series 215 W solar module into 58 new configurations of its popular Grid-Tie System packages. Shipments are commencing from SunWize facilities in Kingston, NY and Rancho Cucamonga, CA this week.

 

Click here to read more...

 

News Archive


Main News Page


2008 Archives

2007 Archives