Category: State Electric Co. - page 3

GM Energy Set to Compete with Tesla Powerwall

Posted on November 10, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

General Motors (GM) has sparked its own energy storage business called GM Energy, which will utilize its Ultium battery packs to rival the Tesla Powerwall and Powerpack products. GM Energy will power homes, charge cars, and convert energy back to the power grid if necessary.

GM Energy will be split into three divisions: Ultium Home, Ultium Commercial, and Ultium Charge 360, specifically designed for charging the already-existing fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) made by GM. Using a special software application, Ultium Charge 360 will allow drivers to search for public chargers in the area.

Tesla’s Powerwall and Powerpack devices are built with similar batteries used to power their cars. GM Energy will have a similar concept; the batteries will be put into large, immobilized packs to store energy. During power outages, the packs will provide power to the property and can even recycle power back into the grid, which usually results in a credit on a power bill. Hydrogen fuel cells will be a part of the new GM Energy lineup, including solar energy products

GM Energy aims to provide software by allowing plugged-in EVs to provide electricity to a home during short-lived power outages. California’s Pacific Gas and Electric will collaborate with GM Energy to test the concept starting in 2023. The Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup is slated to pioneer the bi-directional charging concept.

The new GM subsidiary will join forces with several major power companies, such as SunPower, to install solar panels on customers’ homes. According to GM, the overall goal of the subsidiary is to mitigate concerns regarding possible strains on the power grid caused by EVs. Allowing EVs to charge using previously saved power would reduce concerns over short-term power loss.

Moreover, software applications could help EV owners coordinate their charging activity based on usage, peak times, and demand spikes.

Are you looking for ways to power your home with green energy? Look no further – the experts at State Electric Company can help you reduce your overall dependency on the power grid. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Industrial Electrification Opportunities

Posted on October 19, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

The global energy transition is shifting toward a key trend: electrification. Because of recent geopolitical news, an upward economy, and the overwhelming call for reducing carbon footprints, the electrical revolution of the 21st century is only beginning.

Industrial businesses across the globe can take advantage of the multitude of opportunities associated with electrification but should focus on timely actions and smart investments.

Demand is surging for specific electrical modalities, including utilizing wind and solar systems to supply green power, heat pumps to decarbonize space and water heating in buildings, recharge batteries in energy storage systems, produce green hydrogen with electrolyzers, and support the charging infrastructure for EVs.

Electricity requirements will continue to surge as the demand skyrockets. By 2050, the electricity demand could be triple what it was in 2020, rising from 83 million terajoules (TJ) to over 252 million TJ.

The rise in electrification is driven by the critical need to replace fossil fuels and minimize climate change. Many countries have focused on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Moreover, a positive swing in economics is causing technology to become more cost-efficient and competitively priced.

Some of the more popular electrification sectors already seeing a rise in demand include:

Wind Power
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems
Heat Pumps
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Electrolyzers
Electric-Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI)

Wind power might be the largest revenue source, as the years between 2021 and 2030 could average roughly $1.8 trillion in sales of wind power hardware. Solar PV is the second-largest revenue source, followed by residential and commercial heat pumps.

Europe has especially grasped onto electrification and employed technology related to wind, solar PV, heat pumps, and EVCI. Over the upcoming decade, the demand is expected to increase as decarbonization efforts and economic improvements grow.

The true opportunity lies in BESS and electrolyzers, which have not yet been in the spotlight but are gaining momentum in annual hardware revenue growth. From 2021 to 2030, these two categories are expected to exceed 20 percent globally, surpassing wind, solar PV, heat pumps, and EVCI.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Electric Vehicle Deployment Plan Approved by White House

Posted on October 12, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Deployment Plan has been approved for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, which was created and backed by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Totaling over $1.5 billion to help build EV chargers, all states have access to FY22 and FY23 NEVI formula funding, covering roughly 75,000 miles of freeway countrywide.

The NEVI formula will help construct a convenient, reliable, and affordable EV charging network across the United States, making $5 billion available in the upcoming five years.

United States Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “America led the original automotive revolution in the last century, and today, thanks to the historic resources in the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re poised to lead in the 21st century with Electric Vehicles.”

President Biden aims to ensure that by 2030, half of all new vehicles sold will be zero-emission. Through a powerful network of public chargers, achieving the goal of minimizing our carbon emissions by 50 to 52 percent from 2005 levels by 2030 will be more plausible.

Prior to their approval, State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) had the ability to leverage specialized assistance available through the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. This enabled them to start employing people and training them in specific activities related to the development of their plans. Now, those DOTs can be reimbursed for their costs and have a wide array of options to use their NEVI formula funding for EV charging projects.

State Electric Co.

Diversity in Clean Energy: Equitable Energy Transition

Posted on September 27, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

The recent passing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was greeted with jubilation from many areas, not least the lawmakers and advocates that worked tirelessly to push it through. Among those celebrating are historically excluded groups (HEGs) and their advocates who have worked to deliver clean energy solutions to those who were previously unable to enjoy the benefits of the green energy transition. The IRA brings fantastic benefits to these groups and organizations, like Solar Stewards, in the form of new tax credits that incentivize renewable development in “Energy Communities.”

HEGs are made of those historically denied full participation in society and denied rights and privileges. While the more well-off have been able to afford to upgrade their homes with solar, wind, and other clean energy alternatives, HEGs have lagged behind. While many might think the term HEG refers exclusively to minorities, it also refers to other disadvantaged groups, such as people living in underdeveloped areas of the nation and those fighting for women’s rights.

Solar Stewards works with HEGs and Community Partners across the nation and, using the Solar Stewards Marketplace, partners with corporate bodies who recognize the value of an equitable energy transition. Corporations purchase Social Renewable Energy Credits to support projects with equity at their core. Revenue from Social REC is directed to Community Partners working directly with neighborhood groups.

These relationships allow Solar Stewards to monitor social impact and compile case studies, enabling them to refine and further support equity initiatives. Each project begins by establishing a Climate Equity Goal (CEG) and assessing which approach can deliver the promise of equity. The Community Partners consider this by using three pillars of social impact:

The project is community driven.
It must have a direct effect on the intended communities.
It must have a quantifiable social impact.

An equitable energy transition is essential to long-term sustainability goals and to combat climate change’s effects. These problems are something that we all face, and no community must be left behind.

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Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

EV Charging in the U.S Will Soon Become More Prevalent

Posted on September 14, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

The current administration is backing a plan to support the development of 500,000 EV chargers throughout the US. The goal is to ease range anxiety and speed up charge time. Here’s a quick summary:

The federal government has allocated 5 billion in spending to go to states to build and install EV chargers, primarily throughout interstate highways.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program (NEVI) is the gateway for individual states to access this money. States submit their plan of action for review, approval, and disbursement of funding.
Each charging station must be for public use, allow open-access payment methods, include at least four DCFC plug-in units, work autonomously with all EV brands, and be within 50 miles of another charging station.
These DCFC chargers (direct circuit, fast charge) are commercial Level 3 EV chargers that must deliver 150kW of power and charge an EV within 15-45 minutes.

Currently, the US has about 46,000 EV chargers and around 150,000 gas stations. The conditions of this plan could pose a challenge for utilities, requiring the enhancement of electrical infrastructure that possibly includes battery storage. Whatever shortfalls, this program is an excellent jumpstart to incentivize private investors.

To learn more, reference the U.S. Dept. of Energy.

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Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Kohler Generators

Posted on August 23, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

Power outages are common during severe weather and can affect many aspects of your home or business. An absence of electricity can affect your lighting, water, heating/cooling, and so much more. Without essential utilities, you could face a dire situation.

Relying on the electrical grid can be tricky, especially if you live in an area that frequently loses power. So what’s the answer? A Kohler home backup generator.

These permanently installed generators are located outside your house (similar to an air conditioning unit) and switch on automatically when you lose power. There are no extension cords or gasoline refueling required. Whole-home generators connect to your building’s liquid propane or natural gas.

Some examples of appliances that can lose power include:

Refrigerator/Freezer
Your food is typically the first casualty in a power outage. Try to keep the door closed as long as possible and avoid opening it unnecessarily.

Electronics
Think smartphone, television, computer, tablet, etc. Though most of your electronics might be battery-powered, but with no way to charge them, you can wave bye-bye to them for a while.

Heat/Air conditioning
Power outages don’t care whether it’s freezing or sweltering outside. Avoid frozen/broken pipes or melted food in the pantry by keeping your HVAC working properly.

Lights
It’s hard for us to imagine living without lighting. Do you have candles, flashlights, and kerosene lamps throughout your house?

Water
Running water is used for a multitude of activities: cleaning, flushing, drinking, showering, and more. If your house is on a sump pump, your water is at risk of running bone dry during an outage.

Kohler offers several different models of generators for homes and businesses. If a whole-home generator isn’t for you, they also provide portable generators, which run on gasoline or liquid propane and can supply power for small plug-in appliances.

Generator costs vary depending on your power and installation needs. The best time to install a generator is now; before you need it later.

Are you looking to install an automatic backup generator? Contact State Electric Company today!

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Cadillac of Novi receives the first 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, an all-electric SUV

Posted on August 11, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

Ed Pobur, the general manager of Cadillac of Novi, is proud to house the first 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, an all-electric SUV which is the cornerstone of Cadillac’s future. Receiving the white glove treatment, Cadillac spokesman Michael Albano shares how fortunate the Cadillac of Novi is. “These first early cars, we’re going to make sure everything is perfect. I don’t know if we’ll do that at every dealership. But with Lyriq we’re doing everything we can to assure this launch is perfect,” says Albano. Sharing his excitement, Pobur adds, “No one’s seen the car. Usually, people, the engineers, are running around town with them. But this one’s been kind of a secret. When you see it in person, it’s spectacular.”

Too bad, this particular vehicle is already spoken for, and the vehicle’s owner must wait a week or so for delivery so the team of engineers and specialists can train the technicians of Cadillac of Novi on servicing it. Pobur reported spending $900,000 to make the dealership EV-ready. The crew of specialists from State Electric Company of Holly, MI, updated the electrical infrastructure for the Cadillac of Novi to support the various EV chargers.

Although General Motors is no longer taking new orders for the 2023 Lyriq, Albano states that they have already shipped 2023 Lyriqs to high-demand markets such as New York, LA, and Detroit. The Lyriq is the first Cadillac EV under the General Motors brand that vows to be entirely electric by 2035, so getting your first EV will come very soon! Click here to read more about this exciting vehicle.

State Electric Company was the contractor who made the electrical infrastructure upgrades and installed all the EV chargers for the Cadillac of Novi dealership. If you’re interested in setting up your business or fleet of vehicles with greener technology, contact us today!

Not only do we sell EV chargers, but State Electric Company is also a certified installer for all EV chargers on the market today. Our professional and experienced team will review your goals, inspect your infrastructure, design, and install the EV charging station(s) customized for your property and key metrics. We are licensed, bonded, and insured to install EV charging stations in residential homes, apartment complexes, office buildings, universities, dealerships, municipalities, and more! For turnkey solutions, contact State Electric today.

State Electric Co.

The How and Why of Electrical DIY

Posted on July 20, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners across the country are accomplishing DIY projects to either save money or learn how to do something new. When it comes to electrical work, is it better to DIY or hire professionals? If there are any doubts, absolutely contact a licensed electrician. If you’re fairly confident in your learning or electrical abilities, keep the following in mind:

The safest way to start any electrical DIY project is to turn the power off at both sources: the wall switch, and the electrical panel breaker. Always double – no, triple-check that the circuit is off before doing any electrical work. If not, you will risk the chance of being shocked or shorting other appliances by improper wiring.

Start with some basic tools such as a circuit tester, lineman pliers, wire strippers, and wire nuts. If you are swapping out a light fixture or outlet, take photos and look carefully at how the old one was put together. When it’s time to put everything back together, an effortless trick is to look at the photos to ensure it’s all correct.

DIY projects should not include any of the following:

Main electrical panel
Sparking outlets or appliances
Main service feed
Spliced, damaged, or burned wires
Ungrounded systems
Wire stripper

Electrical DIY can save you time if you know what you’re doing. If not, however, it could turn into a long, drawn-out process. The good news about learning how to DIY electrical jobs is that you will eventually be confident enough to do it again.

Sound engineering, such as proper grounding, solid wire connections, and safe circuits is imperative for a successful DIY electrical project. Electrical permits and inspections are always required before selling a house, and if your wiring is off, it could impact the sale of your home. Start small, and work on the simpler electrical projects before working your way up to bigger, more complex projects.

Did your DIY project turn hire-it-out? State Electric Company is licensed, bonded, and insured to provide electrical contract work for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Determining the Best Whole House Generator

Posted on July 12, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

Generators are all the rage. Whether you want to disconnect from the power grid or keep your essential appliances operating during an outage, whole house generators are the way to go. Before you need one, it’s best to buy the right generator for you, to ensure you are prepared when the time comes.

Whole house generators are great for when power is unavailable through the electrical grid. When purchasing a generator, take note of your household power requirements. Large-draw appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, sump pumps, water heaters, and space heaters will pull the most electricity. To calculate how much power you need, locate the wattage rating label on your appliance and use an online wattage calculator to determine how much electricity it draws. You can also check with your utility company to determine how much power you consume regularly.

There are several aspects of whole-house generators to familiarize yourself with before purchasing. Below, we’ve outlined the differences and benefits they can bring to your household.

Air-cooled
These generators draw in air to cool the engine. With forced-air cooling, a fan is used to blow air over the engine. Air cooling is also accomplished passively by surrounding air absorbing the heat and drifting away from the generator. Air-cooled units are typically not the best for the long run since the cooling process is insufficient. Generators using air-cooling are prone to overheating and shut down automatically for safety purposes.

Liquid-cooled
Using coolant pumped through the engine block, these generators absorb heat from the engine. The coolant then passes through a radiator that lowers the temperature of the coolant and repeats the cycle. Liquid-cooled generators can operate more efficiently in high temperatures or climates that regularly reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Their low chance of overheating makes these generators a viable option.

Natural Gas
Since whole house generators are permanent, they can connect to your house’s natural gas line from a utility line. Natural gas usually comes from a utility line (or a large, whole-house custom tank that has to be refilled) which can be a downfall for those who want to stay off the grid.

Propane
A more affordable fuel, propane burns much cleaner than natural gas as it doesn’t exude as much contamination. However, propane’s downfall is that the tanks need to be refilled.

Sound Intensity
Whole-house generators will probably be permanently installed next to your house, so the noise level is an important factor. Those that run on the softer side are at about 65 decibels, while the higher models run at roughly 69 decibels. Traditional vacuums read at about 75 decibels. Mind the placement of your generator next to office or bedroom windows.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Consumers Energy Aims to Expand Solar Capacity

Posted on June 28, 2022 by Creative Programs and Systems

Landowners and communities looking to partner on creating solar power plants are encouraged to contact Consumers Energy, as the company plans to add 8,000 megawatts of solar energy to the power grid. According to their Clean Energy Plan, they plan to pull more than 60 percent of their electric capacity from renewable resources and be carbon neutral in 2040.

Dennis Dobbs, Consumers Energy Vice President of Enterprise Project Management and Environmental Services, said, “We need to support Michigan, especially in rural and agricultural areas, and we want to work with landowners and local leaders interested in sitting solar power plants to deliver environmental and economic benefits for their communities. Harnessing the sun is Michigan’s moonshot – and we won’t achieve this historic goal without help.”

Consumers’ timing is just right, as wind and solar energy accounted for 20 percent of electricity generation throughout the United States for the first time in history. Solar energy is also experiencing a boom worldwide, as wind and solar were the fastest-growing sources of energy for the 17th year in a row. Between 2015 and 2021, wind and solar energy doubled electricity production to 10 percent.

Dobbs said, “Our goal is to meet Michigan’s property owners and communities where they are to start a conversation about mutually beneficial solar solutions.”

Consumers Energy is looking for roughly 500 to 900 acres to install solar panels and suggested three locations that would work well for what they need: publicly owned property, brownfield sites, or fields.

While the Clean Energy Plan focuses on improving the environment, it will undoubtedly create more jobs and provide an economic boost as well. According to experts, the plan has the ability to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 63 million tons.

Are you interested in installing solar panels to power your home or business? Contact the professionals at State Electric Company today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.