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Solar Panel Security Bizop
Solar panels aren’t even ubiquitous yet and already solar panel theft is a big problem. In the past year, over 400 panels, worth at least a thousand dollars each, have been stolen from the vineyards of Napa County, California. As more homes and businesses install solar panels, the problem will grow. Ground-mounted panels are the current target, but rooftop models are also in danger.
The KQED report interviewed a Santa Rosa, Calif.-based startup called Gridlock Solar Security, which is a little over a year old and sells a $1,000 alarm system solar security device. The system will make eight phone calls in 10 seconds to warn of a potential theft, and blare a 120 decibel alarm system. Seems like they’re doing well, telling KQED that they’ve been generating 36 orders a month from a national distributor, and working with school districts and wineries.
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Randy Stevenson on January 13th, 2010 2:34 pm
Uh oh – I foresee the cost of wine going up! I’m always amazed at the items considered targets for thieves. This reminds me of the increase in manhole cover theft due to the increasing cost of steel. Someone tries to do something that saves them money and is good for the environment and someone with the moral code of a worm comes along and steels the solar panels. The insurance coverage is an interesting idea.
RedHotFranchises on January 13th, 2010 10:34 pm
I wouldn’t be surprised that solar panel theft can be a big problem, being as new as it is, it would be the most likely target for thefts to steal. But it’s good they came out with a nice prompt solution to keep the solar panel thefts out.
It definitely arouses curiosity when one out of a hundred in your neighbourhood begins using solar panels.
Paul Burrowes on January 28th, 2010 9:04 am
Here is an inexpensive solution to the problem of Solar Panel Thefts
Lock up your Solar Panels
Super-Strong and Fast-Curing Adhesive/Sealant Specifically made for Metal Parts. WEICONLOCK products are high quality anaerobic adhesives and sealants on the basis of special methacrylate resins, especially made for economical thread locking, retaining and sealing of threaded, cylindrical and pipe assemblies. Works with (Chrome, Zinc, Nickel, Stainless Steel and Aluminum)
The characteristic feature of WEICONLOCK is the curing in contact with metal while deprived of air. It provides a shock- and vibration-resistant joint with excellent resistance to chemicals and solvents. Due to its liquid consistency WEICONLOCK completely fills the gaps, thus giving protection against leakage and fretting corrosion. Disassemble with blowtorch, heat to 350 C to soften the material to remove the bolts. A 20ml pen will lock a typical array for under $15!
AT 302-60 thread locking, higher viscosity, high strength, hard to disassemble. Available in 20, 50 and 200 ml. FHWM-AA-600 http://www.freehotwater.net/WEICONLOCK.pdf
Available in the U.S. exclusively from Free Hot Water
http://www.freehotwater.net/materials.html
Tim on August 24th, 2010 11:49 am
I use tamper resistant nuts on my solar panels. See mcmaster.com part 98789A120
good article. thanks.
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