ClearEdge5

The ClearEdge5, from ClearEdge Power, is a combined heat and power (CHP) energy system based on hydrogen fuel cell technology.

The ClearEdge5 allows consumers to generate electricity at about 6 cents per kWh. This is less (often times much less) than utility rates anywhere in the country. Maximum savings with the ClearEdge5 are achieved when users are significantly exceeding their baseline utility allowance. Typically when a home or business exceeds their allowance, electric rates shoot through the roof. In California, for example, a customer using 99% of their utility allowance will pay 13 cents/kWh while a customer using 131% of their allowance will pay 32 cents/kWh. Since the ClearEdge5 is generating power off the grid, there is no allowance and no change in the 6 cent/kWh price. In fact, even if the fuel cell produces more energy than the customer requires, the excess energy will be sent to the power company’s grid, and then credited back to the customer.

The combined heat and power (CHP) system used by the ClearEdge5 is one of the reasons why it is so efficient. Normally, the heat created in the process of producing electricity is wasted at the power plant. Since the ClearEdge5 generates power on-site, the 20,000 BTU’s of heat per hour do not go to waste. Creating heat in this manner allows consumers to avoid burning the natural gas that would typically be necessary. When compared to traditional methods, the ClearEdge5 drops natural gas consumption by 40% and reduces CO2 emissions by 1/3.

Comprised of three core components, the ClearEdge5 produces five kilowatts of electricity per hour and approximately 43,800 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. All of this power is created without burning any fuel or making noticeable noise. Rather than using an internal combustion process like traditional methods, the fuel cell is instead powered by creating ultra-clean hydrogen, which is converted from natural gas by the Fuel Processor. The hydrogen is then processed through the fuel cell in a clean chemical reaction, creating direct current (DC) power and heat. The Power Conditioning Unit takes the DC electricity and converts it into AC (alternating current) power. Steady, continuous power is then directly tied to the main electrical panel, while heat is moved to the building by way of a heat exchanger. The electricity generated powers the home while the heat generated is used to heat water and the building itself.

The ClearEdge5 easily integrates with existing electrical systems, and needs only access to natural gas to be installed. In the event of a power outage, the ClearEdge5 automatically switches to grid-independent mode creating instantaneous back-up power.

The ideal customer for the ClearEdge5 uses 43,800 kw/hours of power per year (equates to approximately $1,000 per month utility bill) or more and has a substantial heating demand (radiant flooring, pool, spa, etc). Homes measuring in at over 4,000 square feet with a pool/spa would qualify for the CE5, while almost any small or medium business would fit the requirements.

Contact nuMeridian here to find out how much money the ClearEdge5 can save you.

The ClearEdge5, from ClearEdge Power, offers businesses the ability to create efficient, reliable energy with a compact fuel cell system.

The ClearEdge5 offers impressive financial savings for small and medium scale commercial operations, immediately saving businesses up to 30% on utility bills. Government incentives will reduce up-front cost of the ClearEdge5 by up to 55%, while certain regions qualify for a loan that will eliminate the initial investment entirely.

Business owners can expect a 100% return on investment in as little as 3 years; the reliable ClearEdge5 has a 5 year warranty and a lifetime expectancy of 20 years. So, if your business is interested in a 30% reduction on utility expenses for 17 of the next 20 years, the ClearEdge5 is probably your answer. (Total savings will most likely reach reach into the six figures but) Contact nuMeridian here to find out exactly how much money the ClearEdge5 can save you.

Fuel cell technology offers benefits that no other technology can match. The ClearEdge5 provides continuous and reliable energy, operating 24/7 regardless of weather conditions. Since the ClearEdge5 runs independent from the grid, power outages will not affect your green business. In comparison, solar panels provide very inconsistent power due to their demand for direct sunlight.

The ClearEdge5, from ClearEdge Power, is the perfect clean energy solution for home owners looking to save money and go green.

Homes larger than 4,000 square feet with a pool/spa (or a large heating demand) will qualify for the ClearEdge5 fuel cell system. Immediately upon installation, residential users will begin saving up to 50% off their utility bills. Government incentives will reduce up-front cost of the ClearEdge5 by up to 35%, and customers in certain regions qualify for a loan that will eliminate the initial investment entirely.

The reduction in utility expenses that is achieved with the ClearEdge5 means that home owners will realize a 100% return on investment in 5 years or less. Since the ClearEdge5 has a life expectancy of 20 years, customers will be collecting savings throughout this lifespan. For example- A home owner with a $1,000 per month utility bill can expect the ClearEdge5 to save them $11,820 per year on power bills. This means the unit will pay for itself in 5 years (4 years with government rebates) and earn the customer $144,800 over the next 15 years. Contact nuMeridian here to find out exactly how much money the ClearEdge5 can save you.

The ClearEdge5 offers home owners benefits that other power generation technology can offer. Fuel cells provide constant, un-interrupted power in any type of weather. Solar power, for example, does not provide constant power unless it receives direct sunlight. The ClearEdge5 needs only ultra-clean hydrogen to function, which is in constant supply. This allows the refrigerator-sized unit to produce 4x more electricity and 11x more power than an equally priced solar power system.

Rebates and Incentives:

An Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is available to anyone purchasing a ClearEdge5. This credit is allowed to be subtracted, dollar for dollar, from total federal tax liability. Businesses qualify for a 30% rebate ($15,000) and homes qualify for a 10% ($5,000) rebate.

Learn more about the Investment Tax Credit from the US Fuel Cell Council.

The Self Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides $2.50/watt for fuel cell equipment; that translates into a $12,500 rebate check for each ClearEdge5 unit installed within qualified areas (initially limited to California).

You will qualify for the $12,500 SGIP rebate if you are receiving either electricity or gas from:

• Pacific Gas & Electric
• Southern California Edison
• Southern California Gas (“The Gas Company”)
• San Diego Gas & Electric

Learn more about the Self Generation Incentive Program from the
California Public Utilities Commission.

Accelerated Depreciation:

Businesses that purchase the CE5 are also eligible for accelerated depreciation deductions. Talk to you tax professional and find more information at the
The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE)

AB811

The AB 811 program allows property owners to finance the cost and installation of renewable energy systems and incorporate it into their property tax payment. Customers in qualified regions will receive a government loan between $5,000 and $100,000 for the renewable energy system. The 20 year, 7% interest loan is added into the property tax of the home or business and paid every 6 months.

What does AB 811 really mean for consumers?