First Solar
Location: Lawrence County, Alabama
Date of Completion: 2025
Griswold Controls Products Used: 3” to 24” Wafers with Automatic Flow Limiting cartridges and Quickset Brass Valves
Description:
Sustainability has driven politicians, businessmen and businesswomen, and consumers around the world. Because of this, its importance in each facet of our lives is reaching unprecedented levels. Seeing the writing on the wall, First Solar embarks on a transformative journey.
First Solar is investing an unprecedented $1.1 billion to establish a state-of-the-art photovoltaic (PV) solar module manufacturing facility in Lawrence County, Alabama. Set to commence operations in 2025, this visionary initiative represents a significant leap forward in advancing renewable energy technologies within the United States.
This groundbreaking facility will serve as a beacon of innovation and progress, paving the way for an eco-friendly future. Anticipated to exceed 10 GW in domestic manufacturing capability by 2025, this facility showcases First Solar’s dedication to fortifying the nation’s renewable energy infrastructure.
The project also reflects First Solar’s goal to increase manufacturing in USA and specifically Alabama by building a manufacturing facility. This will not only boost the local economy and create jobs, but also reduce the dependence on foreign imports and enhance the national security and competitiveness of the renewable energy sector. The facility will be one of the largest and most advanced of its kind in the world and will produce solar modules that can power millions of homes and businesses across the country.
Project Description:
Integral to the success of this pioneering endeavor are 2 Griswold Controls products: The Quickset Brass Valves and 3” to 24” Wafers with Automatic Flow Limiting cartridges, meticulously integrated into the chilled water system. Renowned for precision in flow control and streamlined installation processes, these products play a pivotal role in optimizing the efficiency and functionality of the facility’s extensive HVAC systems.
Brass QuickSet valves are manual balance valves that provide precise and accurate flow control. These valves have a brass body and a stainless steel stem, and they feature a memory stop that allows the valve to be returned to the preset flow after shut-off. They are available in sizes 1/2″ to 2″, with threaded or sweat connections.
The 3” to 24” Wafers with Automatic Flow Limiting cartridges, which are designed to maintain balance in a HVAC system regardless of pressure fluctuations. These valves have a stainless steel flow limiting cartridge that dynamically absorbs pressure changes and controls the flow to within +/- 5% of the designed flow. They are available in Class 150 and Class 300, with grooved, welded or flanged connectors.
Griswold Controls’ products are ideal for large-scale HVAC applications, as they offer superior quality, durability, and performance. This project is definitely large-scale as we never sell 24” valves and there are 10 going here. That means a lot of HVAC water! These valves are easy to install and maintain, reducing labor and material costs. They also provide accurate and consistent flow control, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency for the facility and its occupants.
First Solar’s venture in Alabama echoes a commitment to state-of-the-art innovation and sustainable practices, heralding a collective effort toward sculpting a greener and more sustainable future. This initiative not only aims to revolutionize renewable energy but also stands as a beacon of economic growth and technological advancement within the region.
Photo from Made in Alabama
About ADCO Companies, LTD
ADCO Companies, LTD was founded in 1963 by Bob Adams and was previously known as ADCO Boiler Company. Today, they have grown to be the largest boiler company in Alabama and Louisiana with respective territories in the Florida panhandle. ADCO goes the extra mile focusing on customers’ needs to deliver the best possible boiler room solutions. They employ over 70 professionals, representing over 500 years of industry experience in engineering, sales, service and support roles. Their largest asset is the team of dedicated employees who help ADCO thrive through customer relationships and pride in their work. They are proud to be the Cleaver-Brooks representative for Alabama, Louisiana and the Florida panhandle since 1991.
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