Sandbox Solar is a 2024 IEC National Award Winner!
We are proud to announce that we made the trip to the IEC Business Summit in San Antonio, TX, to accept the Excellence in Electrical Construction Award under the Low-Voltage/Limited Energy Green Construction category for our Native Hill Farms Solar Agrivoltaics | 16KW project! This is an award that is offered to those who set the standard for innovation, dedication, and leadership in the electrical industry.
Who is Native Hill Farm?
Native Hill Farm is a certified organic, four-season, family-run vegetable farm in north Fort Collins, Colorado, dedicated to providing the Fort Collins area with the freshest, tastiest, and healthiest produce in Northern Colorado. Since Native Hill farms year round, they use innovative and sustainable growing practices with a focus on passive season extension techniques, innovation, cover cropping, energy efficiency, and water conservation. That’s where Sandbox Solar comes in!
Comprehensive Overview of the Project
Sandbox Solar has successfully implemented a groundbreaking mobile agrivoltaics solar array at Native Hill Farms. The innovative design facilitates the strategic relocation of the array within the plot, seamlessly alternating positions with a greenhouse. This dynamic approach is meticulously crafted to optimize land utilization, fostering an augmented crop yield. Employing bi-facial modules mounted on single-axis trackers is a key element of this solar array. This ingenious choice ensures that the soil beneath remains accessible for cultivating cover crops. By doing so, the land is spared from any disruption caused by the solar infrastructure, showcasing a harmonious integration of renewable energy and agricultural practices.
Defining the Scope of Work
Sandbox Solar embarked on a comprehensive upgrade by trenching a distance of three hundred feet to the greenhouse plot to install an enhanced main service panel. Introducing parallel tracks, we devised a system enabling seamless maneuverability for the greenhouse and solar array, facilitating their effortless interchange to promote optimal growth conditions. In collaboration with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), Sandbox Solar executed the installation of a robust plug and receptacle mechanism. This strategic addition empowers seasonal mobility, enabling the array to be efficiently disconnected and relocated as necessitated by evolving environmental and agricultural requirements.
Sandbox Solar’s project manager and master electrician collaborated closely with the property owner to uphold a safe, pristine, and efficient work environment—a cornerstone in aligning with the customer’s farm-to-table ethos, aimed at serving the community with excellence. Adhering steadfastly to OSHA safety standards, Sandbox Solar guarantees the well-being of all personnel involved. Remarkably, the project stayed well within the projected budget while achieving the targeted completion by year-end. This achievement underscores Sandbox Solar’s commitment to precision, reliability, and customer satisfaction, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
Our very own Allysa Johansen, represented us at the award ceremony in San Antonio, TX, and this is what she had to say about her experience:
“Attending the event was both an eye-opening and rewarding experience. The representatives from the Rocky Mountain Chapter were completely surprised by our national-level recognition, which made the moment even more special. They quickly introduced me to key figures within the IEC, giving me an opportunity to highlight how Sandbox Solar sets itself apart.
One of the biggest takeaways was the opportunity to bridge the knowledge gap between the electrical and solar industries. Many in the electrical field don’t see solar as “real” electrical work, especially since some states don’t require licensed electricians for installations. I was able to shift that perspective by showcasing our commitment to doing things the right way—highlighting our six licensed electricians, including two Master Electricians, and our strong apprenticeship program that aligns with IEC’s mission.
Another common misconception I addressed was the belief that solar ground mounts disrupt land and wildlife. By sharing our work in agrivoltaics, I demonstrated how solar can actually integrate with agriculture rather than harm it. These conversations left a lasting impression and helped change the perception of solar among industry leaders.
The experience reinforced that misunderstandings about solar often stem from companies cutting corners rather than the industry itself. Sandbox Solar is helping redefine the narrative by emphasizing quality, sustainability, and proper training. This event was a powerful reminder that we’re making a name for ourselves nationally by staying true to our core values.”
