Having earned original acclaim for world-renowned architect I.M. Pei's innovative use of cast-in-place exposed concrete, the distinctly modern design of Kips Bay Towers stood in stark contrast to the traditionally brick facades that had come to dominate many cityscapes of the 1960's.
 
Now, under the management of Cooper Square Realty and in partnership with Solar Energy Systems, LLC (SES), Kips Bay has distinguished itself once again.
 
The 1,120 unit property installed the largest multi-family residential solar array in New York City, a 54.28 kW DC solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which is now located atop the 20 story towers.
 
"Installing solar panels on the bulkhead of a 20 story building in the middle of Manhattan presents an obvious physical challenge. From an electrical standpoint, older NYC buildings can offer a variety of infrastructure challenges as well," said SES President, David Buckner.
 
"Fortunately, we overcame that at Kips Bay by finding a code compliant interconnection point up at the top instead of in the basement. Overall, this project was a success due to the concerted effort of everyone involved," Buckner added.
 
Care was taken to avoid disruptions to resident life during installation. According to Yvette Diaz, Senior Property Manager at Kips Bay Towers, "We got no complaints and no interruptions whatsoever when they did the electrical turnover, which was amazing!"
 
From a client perspective, "It was a pleasure working with SES," Diaz added. "They kept us informed, assisted with a Q and A packet for residents and helped get the community to vote 'yes' on the project," said Diaz.
 
Through the NYSERDA Solar Electric Incentives Programs, the project was eligible for a rebate that covered nearly 50% of the cost. Additional incentives (state and federal tax credits, a property tax abatement and annual energy savings) made "going green" an exceptionally wise investment for Kips Bay Towers.

Last update: 02 March 2009 at 08:51

Keywords : News, Solar Energy, Systems, installs, largest, multi-unit, residential, PV system, NYC, Solar Energy Systems, LLC, solar array, photovoltaic

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