Shed Row

A visiting high school environmental science class got to learn about solar energy while flying a drone.

This in-progress site is the future home of nine “sheds” that house two off-grid power systems, as well as expanded storage and program facilities for Burkett Farm and the broader 37-acre property. 

Energy Systems: 

The focal point of Shed Row is the 9 solar panel installations. Each shed roof structure features a solar array of 80 bi-facial solar panels, angled due south at 26°. These panels will generate power for two distinct power systems - Side C, which will supply additional power to Burkett Farm, and The Microgrid, which will supply power to the rest of the 37-acre property. Each system has its own battery storage and automated load management system. 

• Side C: 2 solar arrays for a combined total of 160 panels (75.2kwh production capacity), paired with 12 Fortress eVault batteries (combined 216kwh storage) and 4 inverters

• The Microgrid: 7 solar arrays (560 panels, 263kwh production capacity), paired with a Tesla Megapack (3.9mwh storage capacity). 

Both of these systems will operate in “island mode,” not directly connecting with the main grid. 

Run-In Sheds: 

In addition to housing these energy systems, this area will become an extension of the farm’s facilities. Under each structure, shipping containers will provide space for farm tools, landscaping and conservation maintenance for the surrounding property, additional cold storage for preservation, a vermicomposting lab, and other future activities. The roofs of the shipping containers stationed under these structures have been painted white, to better reflect light onto the underside of the bi-facial solar panels. The area will also feature a bioswale/rain garden for stormwater mitigation.