Who is the Father of Solar Panels – a fun fact from Gordian Energy Systems

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Born in Paris, Edmond Becquerel (1820-1891), a French physicist in 1839, is known for his studies in the solar spectrum, magnetism, electricity and optics. He is best known for his discovery and unraveling the key principle to solar energy cells, the photovoltaic effect. He received his doctorate from the University of Paris, and eventually took a professorial position at the Agronomic Institute of Versailles. He was especially interested in phosphorescence and luminescence, chemical reactions caused by exposing certain substances to light. In the1840s he found that these reactions could produce an electric current in both liquids and metals. The connection between light energy and chemical energy was seized upon by many scientists in the following years, and research has led to the development of the photoelectric cell.

Photovoltaic effect

The photovoltaic effect is the basic physical process through which a photovoltaic cell converts sunlight into electricity. Sunlight is composed of photons which are packets of solar energy. These photons contain different amounts of energy that correspond to the different wavelengths of the solar spectrum. When photons strike a photovoltaic cell, they may be reflected or absorbed, or they may pass right through. The absorbed photons generate electricity.

Solar industry Fun Fact from Gordian Energy Systems

Posted by Sandy Jamerson on

Here’s a fun fact about solar panels: The technology behind solar panels, known as photovoltaics, was first discovered in 1839 by Alexandre Edmond Becquerel, a French physicist, when he observed the photovoltaic effect in a conductive solution exposed to light. However, it wasn’t until much later, in 1954, that Bell Labs in the United States developed the first practical photovoltaic (PV) cell, which eventually led to the creation of the solar panels we use today.

Quad Avenue Community solar

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Gordian Energy Systems, Maryland’s leading commercial solar Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor, is delighted to have participated in a celebration and ribbon cutting event held in Baltimore, MD. in September 2023. The event was attended by Senator Ben Brooks and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr., along with representatives from Summit Ridge Energy, Black Bear Energy, and LBA Logistics. This team worked together to realize a project that will deliver clean energy to the Maryland environment for over 25 years.

Gordian Energy Systems has played a pivotal role in constructing the 3.96 MW solar array in partnership with Summit Ridge Energy, a part of the Maryland Community Solar initiative, which provides low-cost renewable energy to residents. The project will generate millions of kWh of electricity annually. With over 10,000 solar panels, this rooftop array will hopefully be a
harbinger of future solar deployment on commercial rooftops. In addition to ground-mounted solar farms, commercial rooftops provide invisible space and, when appropriately constructed, provide a cost-effective platform for future solar power plans.

During the celebratory event, representatives from Gordian Energy Systems were on hand to facilitate safely conducted tours of the new solar array and to answer questions about the system’s building.

At Gordian Energy Systems, we work diligently to anticipate and solve the often complex challenges that arise in the various stages of planning, procurement, and construction of large solar projects.

Our Team is very proud to work with these awesome partners and provide clean, renewable energy to our region.

Why should you choose rooftop solar for your commercial facility?

Posted by Sandy Jamerson on

Whether or not to buy rooftop solar for your commercial facility depends on various factors, such as your energy needs, budget, and long-term goals. Here are some points to consider when making your decision:

Reasons to invest in rooftop solar for your commercial facility:

  1. Cost Savings: If your commercial facility has high energy usage, solar panels can help you save money on electricity bills by generating your own clean energy and reducing reliance on the grid. Additionally, commercial solar systems are eligible for tax credits, incentives, and other financial benefits that can reduce the overall cost of the installation.
  2. Sustainability: By investing in rooftop solar, you can demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. This can help improve your brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.
  3. Energy Independence: With rooftop solar, you can generate your own clean energy, making your business less reliant on the grid. This can provide you with energy security during power outages and help reduce your carbon footprint.

Advantages Of Solar Energy

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During my time at Gordian Energy, I have had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand the tremendous benefits that solar energy can bring to businesses. Whether you’re a small business or a multinational corporation, solar energy has the potential to transform the way you do business.

One of the most significant advantages of solar energy is cost savings. A recently installed Gordian-built solar array realized a 22.4% IRR on the investment and had a payback period of less than 5 years!   By installing solar panels, businesses can drastically reduce their energy bills and save money on electricity costs. Over time, this can add up to significant savings, allowing businesses to reinvest in their operations and grow their businesses.

But it’s not just about the cost savings. There are intangible benefits that come with being a business that uses solar energy. By adopting solar energy, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, positioning themselves as environmentally conscious and socially responsible. This can be a powerful marketing tool, attracting customers who share these values and helping to build a strong brand reputation.  To illustrate real world implications, a 2022 PwC survey of consumers and employees found that 83% of consumers believe renewable energy is a priority, with 86% of employees preferring to work for companies whose beliefs align with their own.  Even more significantly, 76% of consumers reported they would discontinue relationships with organizations that treated, communities, or the environment poorly.  By using solar energy, businesses can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and helping to protect the planet for future generations.

Of course, installing solar panels requires an upfront investment. However, there are incentives and tax incentives for businesses that invest in renewable energy. In addition, there are many financing options available that can make solar energy more accessible for businesses of all sizes.

In conclusion, the advantages of solar energy for businesses are numerous and compelling. From cost savings to environmental responsibility, solar energy has the potential to transform the way businesses operate, while also providing a powerful marketing tool. If you’re a business looking to make a positive impact on the planet and your bottom line, investing in solar energy is a smart choice.

AJ Armstrong was promoted to the position of Vice President!

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Gordian Energy Systems congratulates AJ Armstrong, who was recently promoted to the position of Vice President! We’re all delighted and very proud of him and have been thrilled to witness his success over the years. AJ has been with Gordian Energy Systems organization for over a decade.

AJ has been instrumental in the development of sales and projects for the company, providing creative ideas and solutions to benefit our organization. He had a knack for understanding customer needs and matching them with the energy, finance, and operations choices available in today’s complex renewables environment.

AJ is a graduate of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, where he received a Bachelor’s and also played Lacrosse.

His promotion to Vice President reflects the appreciation for his success and hard work, and for being a great teammate and coach.

We know he will continue to excel now in his role and lead a group of motivated teammates to success. Congratulations again to AJ Armstrong, our very own Vice President!

Will Jawish appointed Vice-President

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Gordian Energy Systems is excited to announce that Will Jawish has been appointed to the position of Vice-President.

In 2010, Will became our first employee. He has participated in every phase of the company during its development, including sales and design. Will’s passion for learning and figuring things out produced a variety of successful projects for our clients during our first decade in the commercial solar business. Rooftop, parking canopies and ground mounts all present new challenges and learning. Will leads a team of professionals that has been up to the challenge.

Will is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University.

Gordian Energy Donates a 10-panel roof array for Piedmont Learning Center

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Gordian Energy Systems is proud to announce the completion of a solar project for the Piedmont Learning Center. The project, including a 10-panel roof array, installation and commissioning, was installed at no charge to PLC. PLC will buy the electricity produced at a discounted rate ensuring long-term savings for the organization.  Gordian Energy Systems firmly supports Piedmont Learning Center’s mission of connecting students to the environment and helping to develop the skills to become self-sufficient and community serving adults.

This project will provide clean energy to the site and enable them to realize a stable cost for electricity. The impetus for the project was the founder’s desire to make the Center’s array available as an educational tool to teach visitors about the true potential of solar energy and the environment and the installation will lower the operating costs and the property’s energy bills for over 25 years.

The donation will further PLC’s vision to provide the community with an environmentally friendly space that will engage an outdoor learning experience, particularly for Baltimore area students. Students experience learning opportunities including bee keeping, the honey making process and natural gardening.

About Piedmont Learning Center:

Piedmont Learning Center is a 501C (3) Maryland nonprofit, located at Gwynn Falls Watershed, that has a mission to “connect environment, education, and community in an interactive and outdoor learning space.” PLC is a historic site, just a short hike away from where the Gwynn Oak Amusement park stood in the 1960s. With over 2 acres of beautiful land, PLC is a wonderful destination full of beautiful foliage, hiking trails, and even a honey bee apiary, PLC is the host of many outdoor retreats for students, professionals, and all walks of life.

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To learn more: www.piedmontlearningcenter.org

About Gordian Energy Systems:

Gordian Energy Systems is a solar PV Engineering, Procurement, and Construction company servicing developer and commercial customers from inception through commissioning them into full-term operations and maintenance.  Providing these services nationally on Rooftops, Canopies, and Ground installations, Gordian is the trusted company bringing quality solar projects to life. 

Gordian Energy Systems has been delighting clients by delivering projects on time and on budget. Our heritage emanates from Cole Roofing, a 100-year-old Maryland commercial roofing company. Gordian Energy excels at the critical aspects of project development and delivery. From planning to implementation, from delivery to commissioning and with a constant commitment to site safety, Gordian provides exceptional value to its developer and client partners.

Maryland officially commits to 50% renewables by 2030

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Maryland’s commitment to 50% renewable energy by 2030 became law after Governor Larry Hogan allowed it to pass on May 22.

The 50% by 2030 RPS will include a jump from 2.5% in-state solar to 14.5% by 2030. The law also increases funding for clean energy workforce development.

The Clean Energy Jobs Act is exactly what it says it is: legislation that will allow Maryland to become a leader in clean energy by boldly and fully investing in solar, wind, and other sources, including the largest solar carve-out in the country. Maryland has set itself apart from its neighbors as a state that is committed not just to the economic freedom of its residents, but to their energy freedom as well.

Only the District and nine states, have renewable standards at 50 percent or higher, according to the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

Hogan said he remains committed to addressing climate change. He pledged to push legislation next year for 100 percent clean energy by 2040. It is projected that the new law will create 20,000 solar jobs and 5,000 wind jobs by 2028.