groSolar and Zep Solar to revolutionize residential PV installation

“We designed the Zep System to enable ultra-fast installation of solar panels, while simultaneously enhancing the safety and aesthetics of the overall array,“ said Zep Solar CEO Jack West.“ The end result is a system that cuts the total installation time in half, thereby dramatically reducing the price of solar power to homeowners.  We’re proud to bring this innovation to market in partnership with groSolar.”

By eliminating the rails used in conventional mounting systems, the patented Zep System greatly reduces installation time and material. In addition, the Zep system dramatically simplifies logistics, design and installation for residential roof applications. The Zep mounting system also enhances the structural strength of solar arrays.

groSolar’s booth #309 at Solar Power International 2009 will feature an on-going Zep Solar live demonstration.

“We are excited to leverage our national distribution network and our direct residential installation division to bring Zep Solar to homeowners nationwide,” said groSolar CEO Jeff Wolfe. “This will dramatically reduce system design and installation costs, supporting our mission of installing as much solar power as possible, as quickly as possible.”

The patented Zep system includes a “Zep Groove” frame on PV modules, installed by PV manufacturers in the factory. The Zep Groove has a slot that couples with the Zep, a special quarter turn fastener that attaches the module-frames to each other and to the roof. The Zep also provides grounding connections between adjacent frames, reducing wiring costs and installation time. Zep Solar completely eliminates the need for separate “racking” or other mounting hardware for residential sloped-roof applications.

 “Zep Solar will be a tremendous asset to our dealers by reducing logistics-complexity and design challenges associated with other mounting systems,” said groSolar VP of Technology John Berdner. “This partnership is an example of groSolar driving the role of the installer-integrator deeper into the supply chain, and I believe this will accelerate the growth of residential solar power.”

Zep Solar plans to have the first shipments available through groSolar in Q1 of 2010. More information is available at www.zepsolar.com

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About groSolar
groSolar is North America’s premier distributor, installer and integrator of solar energy solutions for residential and commercial installations. Founded in 1998, groSolar is the largest 100 percent U.S.-owned installation and distribution company in the solar industry. The company has offices and warehouses across the US, distributing solar electric and solar hot water systems from offices in VT, NJ, NY, CT, MA, MD, DE, PA, and CA. groSolar integrates components from leading solar manufacturers including Canadian Solar, Zep Solar, Motech, Heliodyne, SMA, Fronius, and UniRac into simple solar energy solutions for customers that generate clean, reliable energy for decades. groSolar is a mission-driven company dedicated to providing high quality solar energy solutions and whole energy appreciation. groSolar’s venture capital investors include NGP Energy Technology Partners, SJF Ventures, and Calvert Social Investment Fund.  Learn more at groSolar.com  or call 800.374.4494.