A Least Cost Approach to Ground Mount Solar – Earth Mount Solar® PV with Jim Tyler, CEO, Erthos | EP157

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Can solar panels laid flat on the ground unlock the next breakthrough in utility-scale solar? Today on the Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Jim Tyler, CEO of Erthos, an innovator in ground-mount solar technology.
Erthos offers the least-expensive and highest-performing system architecture for utility-scale solar power on the planet. They have perfected the science of installing solar modules directly on the ground. By maximizing the land coverage ratio and minimizing BOS components, Erthos claims leveled costs 20% lower than conventional trackers.
We dive into the pros and cons of this novel approach. How do flat panels perform in rain, heat, and wind? Can grass grow underneath? Are micro-cracking and degradation concerns?
Jim explains how his extensive background in project development informed the Erthos concept. By simplifying design and standardizing components, costs can be stripped to the bone. We learn about initial skepticism and how new technologies cross the chasm into mainstream use.
With 9 module partners on board and 200+ MW contracted, Erthos appears poised for rapid growth. However, they still face the universal challenge of interconnection delays. We discuss the future of low-cost renewable hydrogen and how distributed hubs can circumvent transmission bottlenecks.
If you are involved in utility-scale solar procurement, development, engineering, or asset management, you don’t want to miss this episode from veteran Jim Tyler and Erthos!
Key Takeaways
1. How does Erthos's ground-mount solar technology work without any racking or tilt?
2. What are the pros and cons of laying solar panels flat on the ground?
3. How do flat panels perform in rain, heat, wind, and other environmental factors?
4. What are the installation labor and O&M advantages of eliminating pile driving and trenching?
5. How has Erthos standardized system design to drive down costs even further?
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