Service Offerings
In 2017, Sprague led the way with the Nation’s first solar liquid storage tank roof, proving that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand. Now, we’re helping businesses across the U.S. harness solar power to reduce costs, meet emissions goals, and enhance energy independence.
Our durable, flexible, thin-film solar panels are designed to seamlessly integrate with your petroleum storage tank roofs without interrupting daily operations. Whether you're looking to cut energy expenses, stabilize pricing, or reduce your carbon footprint, Sprague Solar delivers turnkey solutions tailored to your needs.
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Offset energy consumption by using solar power to stabilize and lower overall site demand.
Transform unused tank top space into a productive, energy-generating asset without impacting operations.
Protect tank roofs from weather exposure, reducing wear and tear over time.
Maintain power reliability and reduce dependence on external energy sources with on-site solar generation.
Store excess solar energy to optimize usage and reduce peak demand costs.
Sprague provides a turnkey solar solution with the potential for zero upfront costs and guaranteed OpEx reduction.
Panels can be installed on your tanks without interrupting your daily operations, ensuring business continuity.
Thin solar panels typically come with a robust 20-year warranty, which speaks to their durability and long-term performance. This warranty often guarantees that the solar panels will maintain an efficiency of 85% or greater throughout the entire 20-year period.
The hurricane rating of 175 mph signifies that these thin solar panels are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including hurricane-force winds. This level of resilience ensures that the solar panels remain operational even in the face of severe storms, minimizing the risk of damage and downtime.
Since launching our initial pilot project in 2017 with the first-of-its-kind flexible solar panel installation on a storage tank in South Portland, Maine, we have continued to expand our solar footprint. The initiative has grown to include the Rensselaer facility in New York—the state's first application of solar tank technology.
Over the next 20 years, liquid storage tank solar installations across just a few locations could generate approximately 22 million kWh of clean energy—delivering a significant environmental impact.
The Sustainable Impact Award at the annual Global Tank Storage Awards was given to Sprague Operating Resources LLC “for innovative application of thin-film solar panels”.
Sprague Energy was presented with the Sustainable Impact Award for its work on thin film solar panels applied to an oil tank – Sprague’s South Portland Terminal is home to the (first of its kind) solar storage tank. It said this marks the first time that thin film solar panels have been applied directly to the roof of a former oil storage tank.
No, operators can walk on them without any additional slip factor or glare created. The panels also help protect the paint on top, reducing maintenance costs.
Our panels are designed and constructed to meet the NFPA Class 1 Division 2 standard, ensuring safe operation on all petroleum and gas storage tanks, regardless of product switching activities.
No, the panels do not increase the slip factor of a standard painted tank. Other than the panels being laid flat, cable trays are installed away from the edge of the tank and along the interior pathways created by the panels, with wires enclosed by the cable trays, which are approximately 6” – 8” high.
Yes, inspections for any physical damage to the panels are conducted through visual observation. Operation of each specific panel can be electronically tested or conducted by heat mapping. The inverters are also set up with wireless capability to monitor the systems remotely. If a panel needs to be replaced, another panel can be installed directly on top of the old panel, or if necessary, the adhesive can be heated so the panel can be peeled back or completely removed.
Conduit typically runs up the tanks' side to power lighting, alarm, and gauging systems. We can use existing supports along the side and top of the tanks to run the conduit for the solar panels.
In snowy conditions, both typical tanks and solar tanks experience snow melting relatively quickly due to the roof's slope and the tank's warmth. Solar panels can still function through up to approximately 10 inches of snow, although at a reduced capacity. However, the heat generated by the panels often accelerates the snow's melting process.
No, they operate at a reduced capacity (depending on the consistency of the snow/ice) but become fully operational once the snow is melted.
No, other than large snowfalls and ice accumulation, the snow itself does not impact the operation of the panels or solar array.
After 20 years, you can expect the following:
The panels will continue to function after 20 years, but the power output will be lower. The decision to replace them will depend on your future energy needs and associated costs.
We will connect behind the meter for on-site consumption.
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At Sprague, innovation has always been at the core of our energy solutions. With more than 155 years of experience helping businesses adapt to shifting energy markets, we understand the importance of turning challenges into opportunities. Tank Solar highlights how above-ground storage tanks have the potential to become productive assets, transforming unused roof space into renewable power. Piloting Solar on...
At Sprague, we understand the importance of finding energy strategies and services that fit your needs. Our experienced team offers deep insights and industry knowledge. Contact us today to see how we can make a difference for your business.
Jin Jin Huang | Managing Director, Solar
jjhuang@spraguesolar.com
603.766.7409
Please note: At this time, Sprague serves businesses only.
