OFF-GRID SOLAR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM FOR URBAN SUSTAINABILITY
DRIVING ENERGY-EFFICIENT URBAN SUSTAINABILITY
FOR THE FIRST ST. TREE NURSERY
In November 2023, the San Francisco Department of Public Works (DPW) implemented a cutting- edge off-grid commercial energy system at the pioneering Street Tree Nursery, an initiative aimed at urban environmental stewardship and community development. Sol-Ark, along with one of its certified installers, led the project, delivering an energy-efficient, sustainable solution for the nursery’s power needs. This project not only exemplifies urban sustainability but also enhances the city’s green landscape and serves as a model for community-oriented environmental progress.
With over a decade of expertise in the off-grid energy space, Sol-Ark has been at the forefront of innovative energy solutions, supporting projects that align with sustainable development and environmental stewardship. When approached by San Francisco’s DPW to develop a renewable energy solution for the Street Tree Nursery, Sol-Ark provided a system that would enable the nursery to operate independently of the grid.
THE SAN FRANCISCO DPW CHALLENGE
- UTILITY LINE COSTS
Extending utility lines from PG&E to the nursery location would have incurred substantial costs, making it imperative to find an off-grid alternative.
- URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS
The project needed to align with San Francisco’s broader sustainability goals, enhancing urban greening while minimizing carbon emissions.
- EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
The nursery, also functioning as an educational center, required a reliable power source to support its training programs and day-to-day operations.
WHY SAN FRANCISCO DPW CHOSE
SOL-ARK® COMMERCIAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
To address these challenges, the San Francisco DPW chose Sol-Ark’s advanced 30K-3P-208V commercial hybrid inverter system for the Street Tree Nursery. Sol-Ark was selected for its:
Proven Off-Grid Expertise
With extensive experience in off-grid installations, Sol-Ark provided the ideal solution to ensure reliable power without the need for utility line extensions.
Efficient Energy Management
The 30kW solar panels, coupled with 62 kWh of energy storage from Deka Duration HV ESS, provided a balanced and efficient system that met the power demands of the nursery.
Cost-Effectiveness
By opting for a renewable setup instead of extending utility lines, the project saved over $60,000 in potential utility costs, demonstrating both financial and environmental benefits.
THE SOLUTION
SAN FRANCISCO FIRST ST. TREE NURSERY ESS CONFIGURATION
- SOLAR ARRAY: 30kWdc solar array utilizing a Sol-Ark® 30K commercial hybrid inverter.
- ENERGY STORAGE:
(12) Deka Duration HV batteries providing a total system capacity of 62 kWh for off-grid power needs.
- APPLICATION
Off-grid power for both the nursery and its educational programs.
THE RESULTS
AVOIDING UTILITY COSTS: By implementing an off-grid solution, the nursery avoided over $60,000 in costs associated with extending PG&E utility lines.
CARBON FOOTPRINT REDUCTION: The solar energy system significantly reduced emissions typically associated with conventional energy sources, aligning with the city’s broader environmental goals.
LOCALIZING PRODUCTION: The Street Tree Nursery reduces the operational and environmental costs associated with transporting nursery stock from distant locations, further contributing to urban sustainability.


