The Container Roll-Out Solar System (CROSS) is a factory assembled relocatable solar array. CROSS is freighted in standard 20 ft and 40 ft shipping containers, and can be rolled out using a forklift and setup on site within minutes of being delivered. CROSS was developed to reduce the logistics and construction burdens associated with deploying solar PV generators, and is suitable for a range of applications from small sites, such as water bore pumps, through to utility scale projects by large electricity providers.
Following its own experiences placing diesel generators and resupplying fuel in remote locations, our partners and us identified a need for solar PV generators that were logistically just as easy to deliver and mobilize. The objective was to design a relocatable renewable power solution that could leave the factory and be delivered anywhere in the world ready to connect with minimal or no civil works, and be quick and easy to setup.
One of the initial goals in developing the CROSS was to improve self-sufficiency of forward operating bases (FOBs) of deployed Military Forces. US Department of Defence (US DoD) case studies revealed that electricity accounted for up to 70% of fuel use on operations, and in some cases at a cost of almost US$100 per litre. When we discussed these results with some of its resource sector clients, they cited similar examples of the cost of fuel for their international mining operations where fuel had to be airlifted in.
However, the greatest benefit in energy self-sufficiency through solar PV or hybrid solutions in contested military operations has nothing to do with cost reductions.
The reduced fuel replenishment cycle means:
* Less convoys on the road, thus
* Reducing the risk of vehicle accidents and
* Exposure to improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or
* Unplanned engagement with enemy forces.
A rapidly deployable and relocatable photovoltaic (PV) system CROSS designed to reduce the dependence on diesel generators during military or humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.
CROSS are available for immediate shipping with five SunPower 435W PV modules per CROSS20, and ten per CROSS40, which retain SunPower’s warranty conditions when fitted. The CROSS is structurally certified to suit installations in AS/NZS1170.2:2011 Wind Regions A to D. Although certified for Region D, it only takes seconds to lower the array flat from its 10/20/30 degree angles, which serves to reduce the risk of panel damage when extreme winds are forecast. Additional ground restraints are required in some areas, which can include pre-fabricated concrete sleepers in environments not suitable for ground penetration, such as landfill sites. CROSS can also be secured to screw piles and other restraint options.
CROSS20 has five (5) SunPower 435W PV modules per rack = 5 x 435W = 2175W per rack, in one (1) 20' ISO shipping container can fit seven (7) racks = 2175W x 7 = 15225W or 15.225kW
CROSS40 has ten (10) SunPower 435W PV modules per rack = 10 x 435W = 4350W per rack, in one (1) 40' ISO shipping container can fit seven (7) racks = 4350W x 7 = 30450W or 30.45kW
