WO2016137393A1

WO2016137393A1 - Systems and methods relating to electricity generation

Info

Publication number: WO2016137393A1
Application number: PCT/SG2015/050358
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rob KHOO
Original assignee: Solar Pv Exchange Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2015-02-23
Filing date: 2015-09-30
Publication date: 2016-09-01

Abstract

Described is a system for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, such as a solar photovoltaic system. The system comprises an input module for receiving data. The data comprises physical parameters of the property including location and roof area, and one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider. The system further comprises a processor for determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non-physical parameter(s) and specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption. Described are also other systems for managing enablement facilities, calculating pollutant differentials, and methods for such systems.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS RELATING TO ELECTRICITY GENERATION

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods relating to electricity generation. In particular, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, producing and obtaining quotes for electricity generator installation, controlling investment in an electricity generator and monitoring output of an electricity generator including calculating a pollutant differential. BACKGROUND

Traditionally, electricity has been generated by burning fossil fuels, and coal in particular. Fossil fuels have become increasingly expensive, and burning those fuels produces pollutants. Such pollutants include highly radioactive by-products of nuclear power generation and air-pollutants, such as carbon-dioxide, created by coal-fired power plants.

Some consumers have installed electricity generators that are renewable energy systems. Renewable energy system produce electricity using renewable resources, such and wind and solar energy, to offset electricity that would otherwise be produced by burning fossil fuels. One of the more common renewable energy systems is a solar (e.g. photovoltaic) power system.

Consumers are often unfamiliar with renewable energy systems and how to determine the size of the system necessary to meet, or partially offset, their power consumption. Similarly, installers of solar electricity generator equipment provide quotes in a variety of formats, specifying a variety of different individual pieces of equipment, kits and other costs, making it difficult for consumers to compare quotes.

Consumers are also faced with a significant capital outlay for purchase and installation of renewable energy systems. This outlay can preclude users from installing renewable energy systems. After installation of a renewable energy system, the cost savings are easily calculated by determining what the cost of the generated electricity would have been if purchased through a traditional provider (i.e. produced by fossil fuel and transmitted over power mains). However, it can be difficult for a user to calculate the positive environmental impact of their renewable energy system. SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a system for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, the system comprising an input module for receiving data, the data comprising: physical parameters of the property including location and roof area; and one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider; the system further comprising a processor for determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non-physical parameter(s) and specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption. The electricity generator may be a solar power system. The solar power system may be a photovoltaic power system. At least one of the non-physical parameters may be selected to be identifiable from an electricity bill relating to the property. The periodic electricity cost may be a cost of electricity as specified on the electricity bill. The system may further comprise a display module for displaying an interactive map from which an image of the property can be acquired. The image may be an aerial image showing a roof of the property and the roof area can be approximated based on the roof of the property as shown in the aerial image. The roof area may be approximated by selecting points on the aerial image corresponding to features of the roof. Specifying an electricity generator may comprise providing an approximate cost for purchase and installation of the electricity generator. The system may further comprise a project store for storing information about the electricity generator once specified, the store being accessible to electricity generator installers to provide quotes for installing the electricity generator.

The present disclosure further provides a method for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, the method comprising: receiving data comprising: receiving physical parameters of the property including location and roof area; and receiving one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider; the method further comprising: determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non- physical parameters; and specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption. The step of specifying an electricity generator may comprise specifying a solar power system. The step of specifying a solar power system may comprise specifying a photovoltaic power system. The step of receiving one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property may comprise receiving at least one parameter selected to be identifiable from an electricity bill relating to the property. The step of specifying an electricity generator may comprise providing an approximate cost for purchase and installation of the electricity generator. The method may further comprise storing information about the electricity generator, once specified, in a project store and making the project store accessible to electricity generator installers to provide quotes for installing the electricity generator.

The present disclosure further provides a system for calculating a pollutant differential, comprising: a data receiver module for receiving output data relating to an electrical output of one or more electricity generators; a processor configured to calculate the pollutant differential based on a difference between an amount of one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators when producing the electrical output and an amount of the same one or more pollutants that would be produced if the electrical output were generated using a generator powered by fossil fuel; and a display module configured to display the pollutant differential. The amount of the one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators may be assumed to be zero. The pollutant differential may comprise the amount of carbon-dioxide emissions saved by generating electricity using the electricity generators. The pollutant differential may be displayed in real-time. The processor may be further configured to calculate, from the output data, at least one parameter selected from: an instantaneous power output of the electricity generators; an average power output of the electricity generators; electricity produced by the electricity generators over a period of time; average electricity production achieved by the electricity generators over a period of time; cost savings achieved using the electricity generators when compared with purchasing power from an electricity provider, and wherein the display module is configured to display one or more parameters. The system may further comprise a memory for storing the pollutant differential and the one or more parameters, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate trend data and the display is further configured to display a trend corresponding to the trend data. The system may further comprise a memory for storing the pollutant differential and the one or more parameters, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate comparison data for comparing the pollutant differential and/or the one or more parameters at selected time intervals, and the display is further configured to display the comparison data. The display module may be configured to display the pollutant differential over the internet.

The present disclosure still further provides a method for displaying a pollutant differential, comprising: receiving output data relating to an electrical output of one or more electricity generators; calculating the pollutant differential based on a difference between an amount of one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators when producing the electrical output and an amount of the same one or more pollutants that would be produced if the electrical output were generated using a generator powered by fossil fuel; and displaying the pollutant differential. The step of calculating the pollutant differential may comprise assuming the amount of the one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators is zero. The step of calculating the pollutant differential may comprise calculating the amount of carbon-dioxide emissions saved by generating electricity using the electricity generator(s). The step of displaying the pollutant differential may comprise displaying the pollutant differential in real-time. The step of displaying the pollutant differential may comprise displaying the pollutant differential over the internet. The present disclosure yet further provides a system for supplying an enablement facility, comprising: an input module configured to receive: project data defining a solar installation project, the project comprising a specified electricity generator associated with an initiator, and the project data comprising a project value and projected electricity usage; data defining an electricity tariff rate; and a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate; the system further comprising: a processor configured to determine a forecast enablement yield relative to the project value, based on the electricity tariff rate as adjusted by the tariff adjustment, the project value and projected electricity usage; and a display configured to display a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield, wherein the input module is further configured to receive at least one project enablement confirmation associated with the project profile, each project enablement confirmation of the at least one project enablement confirmation comprising an enablement value, and the processor is further configured to apply the respective enablement value to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility. The input module may be configured to receive a plurality of project enablement confirmations associated with the project profile, and the processor is configured to apply the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation, of the plurality of project enablement confirmations, to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility. The enablement facility may comprise a fully enabled value and the processor is configured to reject further project enablement confirmations when a sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. The processor may be further configured to implement a timer associated with the enablement facility, the timer specifying a time by which the sum of the enablement value or enablement values must be equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. The processor may further be configured to reject the at least one project enablement confirmation if the sum of the enablement value or enablement values is less than the fully enabled value at the specified time. The present disclosure also provides a method for supplying an enablement facility, comprising: receiving: project data defining a solar installation project, the project data specifying an electricity generator associated with an initiator, and comprising a project value and projected electricity usage; data defining an electricity tariff rate; and a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate; the method further comprising: determining a forecast enablement yield relative to the project value, based on the electricity tariff rate as adjusted by the tariff adjustment, the project value and projected electricity usage; displaying a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield; receiving at least one project enablement confirmation associated with the project profile, each project enablement confirmation of the at least one project enablement confirmation comprising an enablement value; and applying the respective enablement value to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility. The receiving step may comprise receiving a plurality of project enablement confirmations associated with the project profile, and the applying step comprises applying the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation, of the plurality of project enablement confirmations, to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility. The enablement facility may comprise a fully enabled value and the method may then further comprise: determining whether a sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value; and rejecting further project enablement confirmations when the sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. The method may further comprise implementing a timer associated with the enablement facility, the timer specifying a time by which the sum of the enablement value or enablement values must be equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. The method may further comprise rejecting the at least one project enablement confirmation if the sum of the enablement value or enablement values is less than the fully enabled value at the specified time.

The present disclosure also provides a system for specifying a preliminary construction value for an electricity generator, comprising: a display module for displaying an interface to an installer, the interface comprising a plurality of components that, when assembled, at least partially form the electricity generator, the interface being configured to enable an installer to input a plurality of values into an input module, the values collectively at least partially specifying the construction value for the electricity generator; the input module, the input module being for receiving data comprising the plurality of values, each value comprising either a component value of a respective component from the plurality of components of the electricity generator, or a non-component value relating to assembly of the components to form the electricity generator; and a processor for specifying the preliminary construction value at least partially based on the plurality of values. The plurality of components may be derived from a standardised list of components. Each component of the plurality of components may be selectable from a menu of similar components each of which can be interchangeably assembled with the other components of the plurality of components to form the electricity generator. The display may further be configured to display parameters of a property at which the electricity generator is to be assembled. The parameters may comprise at least one of a height of a building at the property and a roof type of a roof of the building. The terms "specify", "specified" and similar, when used in relation to an electricity generator means to determine an electricity generator size (e.g. the number of solar panels, inverters and related equipment) estimated to be capable of servicing the needs of the consumer, and/or that will fit into the useable roof area of the property in respect of which the electricity generator is being specified. The term "specify", "specified" and similar, when used in specifying a preliminary construction value for an electricity generator, means identifying components of that generator that, when assembled, form the generator. The phrase "form the generator" can mean either the forming the generator itself, or forming the generator and supporting infrastructure for the generator thereby enabling use of the generator. The terms "initiator", "user", "consumer" and similar may be used interchangeably to refer to a person or party considering installing an electricity generator on their building, such as a solar photovoltaic generator. Such parties may be home, commercial or charity-related owners or users of buildings. The terms "installer", "integrator" and similar are used interchangeably to refer to parties who are capable and/or authorised to install electricity generators desired by initators.

The term "investor" and similar terms are used interchangeably to refer to parties who are willing to fund the installation and ongoing costs of an electricity generator project.

The term "bid" and "quote" may be used interchangeably except where context dictates otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure. 1 is a website map showing various webpage flows including flows for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property and for displaying a pollutant differential;

Figures 2A to 2G show various interfaces for identifying a property at which installation of an electricity generator is desired, and for specifying the roof area of that property on which the electricity generator will be installed;

Figure 3 shows an interface for entering parameters and details about the building on which the electricity generator is to be mounted; Figure 4 is an embodiment of an interface for capturing a view of the property from the street, to assist installers in identifying and quoting on installation of the electricity generator;

Figure 5 is an example report of an electricity generator project once the electricity generator has been specified;

Figure 6 is an example display showing numerical details defining the electricity generator and is projected output;

Figure 7 shows a graphical version of the projected output of an electricity generator before that generator has been installed;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of a system for specifying an electricity generator;

Figure 9 shows a report similar to that of Figure 5, with additional pictures relating to the property and its location;

Figures 10 to 12 show displays of real time outputs, returns and pollutant reductions of the electricity generator after installation; Figure 13 displays a method for calculating a pollutant differential;

Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a system for performing the method of Figure 13; Figure 15 shows a process flow for seeking funding for enabling (i.e. installing and operating) an electricity generator;

Figure 16 is a system for supplying an enablement facility (i.e. funding facility) to an initiator; Figure 17 is a method executable by the system of Figure 16;

Figure 18 shows a webpage flow for installers to provide quotes for installation of specified electricity generators; Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of a system for managing a quotation process;

Figure 20 shows an interface for inputting values to facilitate creation of a quote;

Figure 21 shows a process flow for viewing details of a project and submitting a quote for installation of the project;

Figure 22 shows a webpage flow for investors to manage investments in electricity generators specified in accordance with Figure 1; Figures 23 to 25 shows example interfaces for identifying projects open for investment, viewing details of a project open for investment and viewing past/completed projects;

Figure 26 shows a webpage flow for an initiator to manage creation of a project, submission for bids, selection of a bid, payment for the project and completion of the project;

Figure 27 shows a webpage hierarchy used by an initiator;

Figures 28 and 29 show example interfaces for inputting information about a project during specifying of an electricity generator; Figure 30 shows an alternative embodiment of an interface for capturing a view of a project site from the street; Figure 31 is a display of buttons for selecting whether to submit, or not submit, a particular project for quotations by installers;

Figure 32 shows an interface accessing quotes and monitoring usage/output of an electricity generator; and

Figure 33 shows a monitoring page accessible through the interface of Figure 32. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Some portions of the description which follows are explicitly or implicitly presented in terms of algorithms and functional or symbolic representations of operations on data within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and functional or symbolic representations are the means used by those skilled in the data processing arts to convey most effectively the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self- consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities, such as electrical, magnetic or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, and as apparent from the following, it will be appreciated that throughout the present specification, discussions utilizing terms such as "scanning", "calculating", "determining", "replacing", "generating", "initializing", "outputting", or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical quantities within the computer system into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system or other information storage, transmission or display devices.

The present specification also discloses apparatus for performing the operations of the methods. Such apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or may comprise a computer or other device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. The algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various machines may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, the construction of more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps may be appropriate. The structure of a computer will appear from the description below.

In addition, the present specification also implicitly discloses a computer program, in that it would be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the individual steps of the method described herein may be put into effect by computer code. The computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular programming language and implementation thereof. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages and coding thereof may be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure contained herein. Moreover, the computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular control flow. There are many other variants of the computer program, which can use different control flows without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

Furthermore, one or more of the steps of the computer program may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially. Such a computer program may be stored on any computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may include storage devices such as magnetic or optical disks, memory chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a computer. The computer readable medium may also include a hard-wired medium such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless medium such as exemplified in the GSM mobile telephone system. The computer program when loaded and executed on such a general-purpose computer effectively results in an apparatus that implements the steps of the preferred method Figure 1 shows a website map 10 showing a process flow (i.e. sequence of webpages/information and options displayed to a user) for executing various functions including a method (12) for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property and a method (14) for displaying a pollutant differential. The skilled person will appreciate that any reference to a method step, webpage flow, process flow and the like described herein is considered a disclosure of a component of a system capable of performing that method step. Similarly, any reference to a component for performing a particular step or task is considered a disclosure of that particular step of task being performed as part of a method, webpage flow or process flow. The electricity generator specified by the method (12) may comprise any renewable energy power generator such as, for example, a solar power system or wind power system. For the purpose of the present disclosure the "electricity generator(s)" will be referred to as a solar power system.

The webpage flow (12) for specifying a solar power system for installation at a property comprises displaying a webpage through which information about the property can be inputted and received by a host server. The information may include physical parameters of the property and non-physical parameters of the property.

The term "physical parameters" defines parameters about the construction of the property itself including, but not limited to, the location of the property, the roof area of the property, the dimensions of the roof, the orientation of the roof, the number of storeys in the property, the type of alternating or direct current connections, the amount of shading of the roof, roof type (e.g. tiled, corrugated) etc. An interface for identifying physical parameters is shown in Figure 3, wherein widgets are provided for inputting the number of storeys (widget 126), roof type (widget 128) and amount of shading (widget (130) - similar widgets are provided in the interface shown in Figure 28. Each of these parameters may be further broken down: for example, the location of the property may be specified as a street address, latitude and longitude, the roof area may comprise more than one roof and may exclude portions of the roof that not legally useable (e.g. where legislation prescribes that solar panels cannot be installed within a particular distance from the edge of the roof, the area of the roof within that particular distance cannot legally be used), and so forth.

The term "non-physical parameters" defines parameters that do not relate to the physical structure of the property, such as the time zone, meteorological data (e.g. average daylight hours), user composition (e.g. number of people residing/working at the property, the number of adults and the number of children residing/working at the property and their ages), commercial or residential, electricity usage, ownership status (e.g. tenant, owner, mortgagee) electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider. The non-physical parameters may be provided in pairs of parameters such as electricity tariff rate and periodic electricity cost, electricity tariff rate and utility provider, and periodic electricity cost and utility provider. With further reference to Figure 3, widgets may be provided for specifying non-physical parameters, such as building ownership information (widget 132), utility provider (widget 134), monthly electricity expenditure (widget 136), attachment of a power bill (widget 138) and the deadline for submission of preliminary constructions values by installers (widget 140) - similar widgets are provided in the interface shown in Figure 29.

To initiate the webpage flow (12) a user may select, for example by selecting a tab or button on a webpage, an option to commence specifying a solar power system (step 16).

Upon selecting the option to commence specifying a solar power system, information is displayed on the webpage to inform the user of the nature of solar power, including the industry, the equipment forming the solar power system, the way that equipment operates, the services provided by the webpage host and other relevant information (step 18).

After navigating through the relevant information, content is displayed (step 20) advising the user of the commencement of the process of specifying an electricity generator. Of primary importance is the location of the property. The location is used to determine parameters such as average number of hours of useable daylight and roof orientation. Consequently, once the specification process has commenced the user is prompted to input the address of the property (step 22). This may be inputted by providing a post code - which, for Singaporean properties, can be sufficient to identify the property itself - or a street address. The address of the property may also be inputted by displaying to the user an interactive map (e.g. Google Maps^®). The user can navigate using the interactive map in order to locate the property.

From the user's own knowledge of the property, the user may specify the room area to which the solar power system can be mounted (step 24). The roof area may also be specified by displaying an interactive map by which an image 100 of the property can be acquired per Figures 2A to 2G. Figures 2A and 2F show interfaces for entering a specific property address. The processor is then configured to display a map zoomed into to show the roofline of any building or buildings at the specific property address per Figures 2E and 2G. Figure 2B shows an embodiment wherein, after entering the specific property address, the processor displays a zoomed out map with a cursor 109 identifying the location of the property in question (i.e. the property at which it is desired to install the electricity generator). Figure 2C shows a map yet further zoomed out when compared with the map shown in Figure 2B, that can be manually zoomed to the location of the property in question. There are many variations in the presentation of the map and many methods for facilitating identification of the property at which installation of the electricity generator is desired, and all such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Once identified, the map zooms in towards the property in question as shown in Figure 2D, and then sufficiently close to the property to enable identification and selection of features of the roof, as shown in Figures 2E and 2G. While the embodiment in Figure 2E enables identification of features of the roof from which the roof area can be estimated, the embodiment shown in Figure 2G provides tools for adjusting and displaying the selected roof features. For example, Figure 2G enables the selection of points by manually clicking points 108 of the roof 104. Figure 2G also provides buttons for deletion of the last selected point 120, clearing all selected points 122 and creating a new area 124. The button for creating a new area may enable multiple separate roof areas to be selected from a single aerial view of a property in question. For example, without the ability to create multiple roof areas, where a property comprises multiple buildings the processor may endeavour to link all selected points from the multiple roofs to form a single continuous area, but it will not be possible to specify an electricity generator for that area. Instead, the button 124 enables the processor to assess the area of a first roof area, and then allow a user to specify a second and further roof areas for addition to the area of the first roof area.

Figure 2G also shows a counter that estimates the total area of the one of more roof areas specified or selected by the user. Where the processor can acquire topography data, the user may select all desired roof points and the processor may automatically separate those points into separate areas capable of receiving one or more components (e.g. PV solar panels) of an electricity generator.

With further reference to Figure 2E, where the interactive map is satellite generated it can be used to display an aerial image of the property 102, showing the roof 104. Using the scale of the aerial image 100, the roof area 106 can be approximated based on the roof 104 of the property 102. For example, the roof area 106 may be approximated by selecting points 108 on the aerial image 100 corresponding to features (e.g. edges, peaks, chimneys, roof areas that cannot support solar panels) of the roof 104.

Depending on the configuration of selected points 108, an orientation of the roof may also be inferred. To ensure accuracy, an orientation device 110 may be displayed on the interactive map. The orientation device 110 may be controlled by a user to more accurately identify the orientation of the roof 104. Particularly where an interactive map is used, such as a map providing a StreetView^®, it can be convenient to obtain a view of the property as seen from the street (step 26) at the time the roof area has been identified. Alternatively, a street view of the property can be uploaded by the user.

The street view of the property enables a user to more readily identify features of the roof, such as whether the roof is peaked or flat, and also enables installers to visualise the building on which they are to quote for installation of the solar power system, once it has been specified. A street view of a property is shown in Figure 4 and is selectable, or the street view may be adjusted to a different view as indicated by the arrows 340 in Figure 30.

The user is then prompted (step 28) to input physical parameters of the property such as the number of storeys, the type of roof, the incline of the roof and the estimated amount of shading (e.g. from neighbouring buildings and trees). The user is also prompted to input non-physical parameters of the property including at least one of the user composition and/or electricity usage, and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider. Since a particular roof area can support a solar power system up to a particular maximum size, the non-physical parameters then assist tailoring the solar power system to meet the consumer's requirements.

Once all relevant parameters have been inputted by the user, additional data can be extracted from databases (step not shown) to facilitate the quoting process. Such additional data can include the number of average daylight hours anticipated at the property and the estimated proportion of useable roof space. The estimated proportion of useable roof space may differ from the roof area as a result of legislative requirements - for example, where solar panels are prohibited from being installed within a particular distance from the edge of a building - and a margin for error in the calculation of the roof area. The margin for error may depend on the size of the roof in the aerial image if one was used to approximate the roof area - the more distant the roof appears, the greater the likelihood of error.

A processor can then use the inputted parameters, and additional data extracted from databases, to form a report (step 30) specifying the solar power system. In particular, the non-physical parameters can be used to determine electricity consumption at the property. The calculated electricity consumption is likely to increase in accuracy where the electricity usage and/or other non-physical parameters have been taken from an electricity bill. Once the electricity consumption has been determined, a solar power system can be specified to meet the electricity consumption of the user or partially offset that consumption where, for example, useable roof area will not permit installation of a system large enough to entirely meet the electricity consumption of the user.

The report is displayed to the user to provide the user with the specification for the solar system, such as a cost estimate for purchasing and installing the specified solar power system, and property data. The cost estimate may be based on historical data of previously installed solar power systems, the cost of similar projects, and the cost of solar power equipment. Such a report is shown in Figures 5 and 6. In Figure 5, the report 142 models the project statistics or parameters. These statistics or parameters include parameters 144 defining the property (e.g. roof area, hours of sunlight, property address and ownership etc), electricity system estimate costs and output parameters 146, projected savings parameters 148 (e.g. cost and pollutant savings) of the electricity generator when compared with standard (e.g. coal fired) electricity generation, and the basis for the estimate 150 (e.g. anticipated electricity generator lifespan). Similarly, Figure 6 shows a report 152, setting out estimated electricity production parameters 154, investment parameters 156 (e.g. initial capital cost, inclusive or exclusive of maintenance and upkeep, payback period and return on investment), financial savings 158 and environmental or pollutant savings 160. An alternative report is shown in Figure 9, in which site pictures 350 and weather data pictures 352 (e.g. geographical weather data overlays) are shown.

The processor also produces a graph for visually depicting the comparative system cost for the initiator over time. Such a graph 160 is shown in Figure 7, for a system that is financed (i.e. built at least partially based on loaned money or money invested by one or more third parties). The system upon which Figure 7 has been based, is a system financed by third party investment based on a return related to a discount from the tariff rate for electricity consumption. For this reason, the cost of using the system increases over time along with the tariff.

The user may be able to tweak the figures in order to arrive at a system different to that which is automatically specified by the program 12. For example, if the cost estimate is too high, the user may specify a smaller system the cost of which they are happy with and that offsets a smaller portion of their electricity consumption. Conversely, where the largest system capable of fitting onto the roof is larger than the system specified to meet the needs of the user, the user may desire a larger system so as to produce excess electricity to earn income or to offset against future electricity needs. Once the report has been generated the user may elect to post a project visible to third parties. A third party may be a solar power system installer. For example, the user's project may be posted into a project store that installers can access and through which the installers provide quotes for installing the solar power system.

While the webpage flow 12 has been described as having various steps 16-30, it will be appreciated that steps 22 to 28 can occur in any order. Also, various steps can be omitted without detracting from the ability of the method 12 to specify a solar power system. For example, steps 16 to 20 may be omitted by the user commencing the method 12 by inputting a post code or property address (step 32). In its broadest sense, the webpage flow can be used to implement a method for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, comprising:

receiving data comprising:

receiving physical parameters of the property including location and roof area; and receiving one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider; and

determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non-physical parameters; and

specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption.

The method may be implemented by a system, such as system 162 shown in Figure 8. The system 162 is used for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property and includes:

an input module 164 for receiving data, the data comprising:

physical parameters of the property including location and roof area; and one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider; and

a processor 166 for determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non- physical parameter(s) and specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption. The system 162 further includes a display module 168 for displaying an interactive map as described above, from which an image of the property can be acquired. The system also includes a memory 170 comprising a project store for storing information about the electricity generator once specified, the store being accessible to electricity generator installers to provide quotes for installing the electricity generator.

In order to use the method embodied by the webpage flow 12, a user will input their data into the input module 164. The input module 164 may be accessed by customised terminals (e.g. a personal computer, laptop or tablet), through a webpage or any other appropriate input means. Once sufficient information has been inputted to enable a solar power system to be specified, the processor 166 will then be used to carry out the processes of determining electricity consumption and specifying the solar power system. The processor can also be used to subsequently generate the report which is displayed using a display module (e.g. a web interface).

The website also comprises pages for viewing solar power system output data. By selecting the "Sun Meter" tab the user is presented with their account page listing all of the projects they are authorised to view. The example webpage 112, shown in Figure 32, displays information derived from the report produced when the respective system was specified.

Upon selection of a particular project, a project details webpage is displayed. The project details webpage displays system data including periodic and instantaneous electricity output, cost saving, pollutant differential (presently expressed as a carbon-dioxide emissions saving), and payback period (i.e. the period over which the system is anticipated to have paid for itself) based on actual electricity production data. The project details webpage can provide a non-interactive, static snapshot of the system data, a non-interactive, real-time snapshot of the system data, or an interactive data display interface enabling a user to view and compare data and query a database to facilitate analysis of system output over time.

An example of a real-time snapshot of the system data is shown in Figure 10. The system data includes a pollutant differential, presently comprising an estimate of the reduction in carbon-dioxide emissions resulting from producing electricity using the solar power system when compared with the carbon-dioxide emissions resulting from producing the same amount of electricity at a coal fired power plant. Since solar power systems are "zero-emissions" systems, meaning they generate power without producing harmful pollutants, the amount of carbon-dioxide produced by the solar power system, and against which the carbon-dioxide emissions of the coal fired power plant are compared, is assumed to be zero. By displaying the pollutant differential the owner or user of the system can understand the amount by which their carbon footprint is reduced. This display can be achieved through an online portal, a closed circuit portal or any other method. Providing the display online also allows investors in the relevant electricity generator project to view the return on their investment in real time.

To gain a more accurate understanding of the reduction in carbon footprint achieved using the solar power system, the solar power system may be assumed to produce an amount of pollutant over its useful life estimated to be equivalent to the amount of pollutant produced in the fabrication and installation of the solar power system. Thus the pollutant differential will be based on the different between an amount of pollutants generated by traditional electricity sources to produce a particular amount of electricity and the amount of pollutant produced in the fabrication and installation of the solar power system multiplied by the period of time (e.g. in hours or days) taken to produced that electricity, and divided by the useful life of the solar power system. The pollutant differential, cost saving and electricity production data may be updated and displayed in real-time on an interactive display as shown in Figure 10. The interactive display also includes options permitting a user to query a database of output information for the solar power system. In particular, the interactive display provides a menu box 114 permitting a user to select the period over which to chart system output. Another menu box 116 is provided, permitting the user to export selected system data from the website.

Once a desired period is specified using the menu box 114, a bar chart 118 is created showing periodic usage statistics. The present bar chart 118 shows daily electricity production, though a user may select another time interval (e.g. weekly, monthly, quarterly, seasonal, annual etc) over which to analyse data.

The interactive display may also comprise various pages. For example, an interactive display may comprise an interactive graph such as that shown in Figure 11, in which electricity production (i.e. electricity output) is shown over time. The period covered by the graph can be selected from a drop- down menu 172. Instead of a graph, selection of a particular period for display may provide output and savings statistics of the electricity generator, in numeric form as shown in Figure 12, over the selected period Thus a user can monitor their electricity consumption, cost savings, carbon footprint and other measures and compare those measures over time to determine changes in performance of the solar power system and changes in electricity usage at the property. It a broad sense, the foregoing information supply can be provided by a method 174 for displaying a pollutant differential, as shown in Figure 13. The method broadly includes the steps of:

Step 176: receiving output data;

Step 178: calculating the pollutant differential; and

Step 180: displaying the pollutant differential.

Receiving the output data per step 174 involves receiving electrical output data derived by measuring an electrical output of one or more electricity generators. The electricity generators may have been specified according to Figure 1 and as described above. The output data may be receiving by a data receiver module 182 as shown in Figure 14.

The pollutant differential may be calculated, according to step 178, based on a difference between an amount of one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators when producing the electrical output when compared with an amount of the same one or more pollutants that would be produced if the electrical output were generated using a generator powered by fossil fuel. In other words, if the user or initiator did not install the electricity generator then their electricity usage would., result in creation of a certain amount of pollution. After installation of the electricity generator, that same electricity usage would result in a different amount of pollution (generally assumed to be zero). Thus, the pollution reduction from installation of the electricity generator can be estimated.

The pollutant differential may be calculated by a processor 184 as shown in Figure 14. The pollutant differential is then displayed on a display 186, per step 180 of Figure 13.

After specifying a system according to Figure 1, the system and installation costs need to be purchased. With reference to Figure 15, after selecting that payment is to be made using one of the various available modes of payment (188), a particular mode of payment must be selected. While the traditional full payment mode (190) may be selected, solar power electricity generators can be associated with very high upfront capital costs. As an alternative to full upfront payment by the user, upfront payment may be financed. Financing may occur using a common lending facility such as bank loans, or alternatively using crowd sourcing (192). In the mode of crowd sourcing represented in Figure 15, a type of building is selected based on ownership model or usage (194). The options given in Figure 15 are whether the building is commercial or residential (196), or whether the building is occupied or owned by a charity (198).

Once ownership model or usage has been selected, crowd sourcing parameters are displayed (200, 202). The parameters may include:

- a current electricity tariff paid by the initiator or user,;

the name of the project;

details of the site (e.g. position, physical parameters etc);

supporting documents, such as details of the electricity generator as specified using the methods described in relation to Figure 1;

- expected tariff discount;

crowd sourcing parameters (e.g. start date, end date, expected capital raising); and other parameters as needed or desired.

In the case of the expected tariff discount, this may be a fixed quantity, may be a quantity arranged as a result of agreements between the website maintainer and electricity companies, or may be able to be selected by the initiator. When the tariff discount is selectable, an increased discount will represent a lower payment per kWh of electricity usage, and thus a lower return on investment for third parties looking to invest in electricity generator installation and operation projects. Thus, while selectable, the greater the selected discount the less attractive the project for investors.

In the case of projects owned by charities, investors may be willing to accept a lower, or no, return on their investment. For illustrative purposes, the only crowd sourcing parameter listed at 202 is a 0% rate of return on investment. Once the various crowd sourcing options have been set, the investment analysis results (204) are displayed to the user. Those results may include the quantities discussed in relation to Figures 5 to 7 and 10 to 12. For example, the results may include investment parameters and project specific parameters. The investment parameters may include:

the payback period over which the initial investment is forecast to be returned to the investors;

the amount paid back, in total, to the investors over the life of the project or over the life of the investment - notably, the initiator may specify that they will pay the investors back over a shorter period than the life of the electricity generator;

a minimum monthly payment regardless of electricity usage, to protect investors' investments;

start date for payback to investors. This may be specified based on a particular event. For example, an event may be the completion of crowd sourcing and thus payback may commence three months thereafter; and

rate of return on investment.

The project specific parameters may include:

- savings per month, year or other period, to the initiator;

savings over the life of the project;

savings in pollutants; and

other project related parameters. The initiator may decide, upon reviewing the results (204) that the crowd sourcing options should be changed, and may do so (206).

Once the initiator has selected appropriate crowd sourcing options, the crowd sourcing project may be created and posted to potential investors (208).

Crowd sourcing may also take into account funding for maintenance over a fixed period such as the life of the investment or the life of the electricity generator. Thus crowd sourcing is a way of providing an enablement facility. The enablement facility is a financial facility that enables construction of the project. The facility may be established and managed by a system such as system 210 shown in Figure 16 that is configured to supply an enablement facility to an initiator. The system 210 includes an input module 212, a processor 214 and a display 216.

The input module 212 is configured to receive project data, data defining an electricity tariff rate, and a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate. The project data defines the solar installation project in terms of the electricity generator that will be constructed by that project, a project value and projected electricity usage. The tariff rate and adjustment rate refer to the prevailing tariff rate experienced by the initiator as evidenced on their electricity bill, or as taken from industry tariff rates, and the adjustment is the discount specified by the initiator.

The processor 214 is configured to determine a forecast enablement yield or return on investment. This yield is given relative to the project value, which includes the capital costs associated with the electricity generator, the labour and assembly input costs and may also include maintenance and upkeep costs over the life of the investment or project. The yield is based on the electricity tariff rate as adjusted by the tariff adjustment, the project value and projected electricity usage. In other words, the yield is based on increments of electricity usage (e.g. kWh) and the amount the initiator is willing to pay for that usage.

The display 216 is configured to display a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield, to the investors.

Investors than express interest by confirming that interest to the input module 212. In other words, the input module 212 is configured to receive at least one project enablement confirmation (i.e. from an investor) associated with the project profile so that the processor knows in which project the interest has been confirmed. Each project enablement confirmation includes an enablement value, and the processor 214 is configured to apply the enablement value to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

While a project may be supplied by a single investor, it is envisaged that projects will often be supplied by multiple investors. Thus the enablement value of any one confirmation may be less than the enablement value required to supply the enablement facility in full (i.e. the completely finance the project). To that end, the input module 212 is configured to receive a plurality of project enablement confirmations associated with the project profile. The processor 214 then applies the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation, of the plurality of project enablement confirmations, to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

Thus the enablement facility has a threshold, being the amount required to fully enable construction of the project and payment of any ongoing costs such as maintenance and the like. Therefore, the enablement facility comprises a fully enabled value (the amount required for full funding inclusive of extras such as ongoing maintenance) and the processor 214 is configured to reject project enablement confirmations once that threshold, or fully enabled value, has been reach. In other words, when the sum of the enablement values of the project enablement confirmations thus far received is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value, then the processor 214 will reject further enablement confirmations from investors. Similarly, when an investor provides an enablement value that exceeds the difference between the amount currently pledged by investors (i.e. the sum of the enablement values of the enablement confirmations thus far received for a particular project) and the fully enabled value, the processor 214 may: - accept only that portion of the enablement value required to fully enable the project;

advise the investor that their investment must be reduced and ask for confirmation that they are willing to so invest with a reduced investment; or

only accept investments that are equal to or less than the difference between the current sum of enablement values in the enablement facility, and the fully enabled value associated with that facility.

To ensure investors do not pledge money that they then lose access to for an indefinite period, the processor 214 is further configured to implement a timer associated with the enablement facility. The timer specifies a time by which the sum of the enablement value or enablement values must be equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. Thus the investor has a definite latest date or time at which they will either have made the investment or will be. returned their funds (or have their pledge cancelled if no funds are delivered until the fully enabled value is reached). Thus the processor 214 is similarly configured to reject the project enablement confirmation or confirmations if the sum of the enablement values fails to reach the fully enabled value by the specified time.

In line with the system 210 of Figure 16, a method is also provided for implementation by such a system. Such a method 218 for supplying an enablement facility is shown in Figure 17 as broadly comprises:

Step 220: receiving:

project data;

data defining an electricity tariff rate; and

a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate;

Step 222: determining a forecast enablement yield relative to the project value; Step 224: displaying a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield;

Step 226: receiving at least one project enablement confirmation associated with the project profile; and

Step 228: applying the respective enablement value to the enablement facility.

In this manner, the method 218 results in supply of the enablement facility.

Step 226 will often include receiving a plurality of project enablement confirmations having values that total at least the value of the fully enabled value of the enablement facility. Similarly, applying those values per step 228 will includes applying the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

Similar to the system described with reference to Figure 16, the enablement facility may include a fully enabled value and the method will then further comprise:

determining whether a sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value; and

rejecting further project enablement confirmations when the sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value.

The method 218 may further include steps involving implementation of the timer discussed with reference to Figure 16, and rejecting enablement confirmations (including those confirmations previously accepted and applied to the enablement facility) if the fully enabled value is not reached by the time the timer expires.

After the required funding has been received, the initiator and/or investors, may then seek to find an installer willing to install the project. The initiator may not wish installers to be provided the project details online and may flag the project as being hidden from installers per Figure 31. However, the project may also be available for installers to provide quotes online and thus Figure 18 shows a webpage 240 flow for installers to so provide quotes. Installers enter the homepage (242) from which they can view existing projects they are installing (244) and the progress and details of those projects, messages (246), their profile (248), wallet (250) which may be used for receiving funds from completed projects and the like. Importantly, installers can also view open projects (i.e. projects for which no installer has yet been selected) and view and quote on those projects (252).

When an installer wishes to quote on a particular project, they select the project from all the available open projects for which they are qualified to quote, and the quotation process is managed by a system 254 as shown in Figure 19. The system 254 is used for specifying a preliminary construction value for an electricity generator. The preliminary construction value is a quoted amount which may or may not be subject to variation upon site visitation. The system 254 includes a display module for displaying an interface 258 to an installer, an input module 260, and a processor 262 for specifying the preliminary construction value at least partially based on the plurality of values.

The interface 258 includes a plurality of components that, when assembled, at least partially form the electricity generator. The interface 258 may also include one or more components directed to non-physical properties of the quote, such as labour. The interface 258 is configured to enable an installer to input a plurality of values into the input module 260. The values inputted by the installer collectively specify the construction value for the electricity generator, or at least partially do so. Partial specification of construction value may be used where, for example, commercial installations involve scaffolding quotes and other third party inputs for which the installer would typically not be responsible.

An example interface is shown in Figure 20 in which the various standard items for all projects are listed, or at least the various items that all installers will need to quote on for the project in question. Thus the components for the electricity generator are derived from a standardised list of components. This enables easy comparison of charges by initiators. While installers may be limited to using particular components (e.g. a particular type, quality, brand etc of solar panel) they may also be at liberty to propose a particular type of component from like components. Each component is thus selectable from a menu of similar components. Each of the components in the list may be interchangeably used or assembled, together with the other components of the electricity generator, to form the electricity generator.

Notably, the installer may be able to specify additional or miscellaneous costs that cover expenses and charges relating to, for example, parameters of the property at which the electricity generator is to be assembled. Such parameters can include the height of the building on which the electricity generator is to be installed, the roof type of the building and so forth. The display is thus configured to display such parameters to ensure accurate quoting.

The installer then inputs a value for each relevant component into the interface 258. The input module 260 receives data from the interface 258, the data comprising the plurality of values and each value comprising either a component value of a respective component from the plurality of components of the electricity generator, or a non-component value relating to assembly of the components to form the electricity generator. Thus the system provides a standardised and detailed tool for generating quotes that is easy for installers to use, can be produced as a record of what was agreed between an installer and initiator, and is easy for initiators to compare with other quotes when selecting an installer.

A webpage flow 264 for managing the process employed by installers is shown in Figure 21. In that webpage flow 264 an installer elects to view project details (266) after which details are displayed to the installer (268). The installer then enters the value of each item and the processor 262 calculates the amount of the quote. The installer is then checked for verification or authority to quote and install (270) and, if no such verification or authority has yet been given to the installer, they are advised that their quote cannot yet be submitted until they have been so verified or authorised. If the installer has been verified or authorised, their bid is submitted (274), the user may/may not select the bid (276), and the installer then submits their final bid with adjustments, if necessary, on their original bid (278). The adjustments may result from a site visit or other relevant circumstances. To protect the initiator from under-bidding or under-quoting by installers, a maximum variation on the original bid may be set so that the project is not unfairly delayed or jeopardised.

Once the final bid is received, the user pays an amount equivalent to the installation cost, or the remainder of that cost if a deposit has been paid, (280). The system outputs an error (282) is no such full payment is made, otherwise the installer is instructed to commence the project (284). The installer updates project details (286) either periodically or at the end of the project depending on what has been agreed with the initiator, and submits project completion once the project has been completed (288). The installer may then be paid immediately, or upon confirmation from the initiator that installation has been completed to a satisfactory quality. A webpage flow 290 is shown in Figure 22, for investors willing to invest in electricity generator projects. The investors can view open projects (292) filtered by any desired filter (e.g. geographical etc), projects they have invested in (294), their profile (296) and their wallet details (298). The real time return on each project may be accessible through the pages relating to the projects in which the investor has invested. Similarly, open projects may be listed as shown in Figure 23, where each project, the term of the project, the amount invested (or the remaining amount available for investment before the fully enabled value is reached) the expected return on investment and any limitations on investment are shown. Additional detail can then be obtained as shown in Figure 24, by selecting a particular project. Similarly, past/completed projects can be displayed as shown in Figure 25.

A webpage flow 300 for an initiator is shown in Figure 26. The initiator firstly locates the property (302) and inputs details about the property (304). If the initiator requires funding to complete the project, the initiator then seeks crowd funding as discussed above, before requesting quotes or bids on the project installation. The initiator then submits the project for bids (306) for installation and receives bids (308). If desired, the installer can view bid details (310), which may involve payment of a deposit (312), and select installers for final bidding (314). Each installer selected for final bidding may then make a site visit to ensure details of the project are understood by both the installer and initiator, before the installers make their final bids. The initiator then selects a final bid (316), pays the amount for installation (318) minus any deposit paid at 312, and then project commences (320). The initiator can view updates made by the installer (322), and clear payments to be made to the installer if necessary. Once completed, the initiator verifies completion (324), the project closes and the initiator may be asked to rate the installer (326). This webpage flow 26 is also illustrated as a webpage hierarchy in Figure 27..

The receipt and accessing of quotes and monitoring usage etc may all be managed through a single, simple interface. Figure 32 shows such an interface. The interface shows a picture 342 of the site along with details of the project and building 344. One of the details comprises a number of quotes 346 received on the project. The quotes may remain in perpetuity, or for a period of time, after the project has been completed so that the initiator can compare current quotes with future quotes on other projects. For an existing project, selecting the particular project will bring up a real-time output monitoring webpage (see Figure 33) the contents of which is discussed above in relation to Figures 10 to 12. Similarly, selecting the quotes for that project will bring up all available quotes for review by the initiator. The present methods and systems may provide an end-to-end platform by which initiators, installers and investors can create and interact with projects. In other words, from project conception, to project definition, project funding, installation and completion, the present platform manages interactions and flow of funds.

To illustrate the combined effect of the methods described herein, consider the example of an initiator is a Singaporean home owner who wants to install a solar photovoltaic system on her semidetached house to save on her monthly electricity bill and to reduce her carbon footprint. The initiator specifies their project using the quotation/reporting tool described with reference to inter alia Figure 1. The estimated cost of the electricity generator is $32,000, for example. This is the upfront capital cost for the system and its installation only. The initiator elects to seek crowd funding for the generator and all associated expenses such as insurance, maintenance, inverter replacement and the like - these costs may be estimated to be a fixed amount relative to the value of the project (e.g. 50% of the project upfront purchase and installation costs, over the life of the project). Where the fixed amount is 50%, the initiator must seek an additional $16,000 of funding to cover those additional expenses. Thus the total funding amount sought is $48,000.

The initiator then seeks funding as discussed in relation to inter alia Figure 17. Upon completion of fund raising, the investors are obligated to deliver the pledged funds and the initiator is obligated to make a return on the investment of those funds.

The funded project is now submitted for quotes from installers as discussed in relation to inter alia Figure 19. The quote process is managed and the project installation is monitored through periodic updates, until it is completed. Once completed, the project is closed and the installer is paid any additional funds outstanding for payment for the installation.

The initiator and the investors can now monitor the output, pollutant savings, cost savings, return on investment and other parameters using the interface shown in inter alia Figure 10. Investors may then receive their returns on a monthly basis or any other basis as agreed specific at the time the investment was made. Once the full projected returns are paid to the investors, the investors' involvement in the project ceases and the initiator enjoys full and free usage of the electricity generator, but is then responsible for ongoing maintenance, insurance, inverter replacement and other costs. It will be understood that many variations and modifications may be made to the invention, including combining embodiments and examples described herein, and all such variations and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

Claim 1: A system for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, the system comprising:

an input module for receiving data, the data comprising:

physical parameters of the property including location and roof area; and

one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property including user composition and/or electricity usage and/or two or more from the group of: electricity tariff rate, periodic electricity cost and utility provider; and

a processor for determining electricity consumption at the property based on the non- physical parameter(s) and specifying an electricity generator system for installation at the property based on the roof area and electricity consumption.

Claim 2: The system according to Claim 1, wherein the electricity generator is a solar power system.

Claim 3: The system according to Claim 2, wherein the solar power system is a photovoltaic power system.

Claim 4: The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the non-physical parameters is selected to be identifiable from an electricity bill relating to the property.

Claim 5: The system according to Claim 4, wherein the periodic electricity cost is a cost of electricity as specified on the electricity bill. Claim 6: The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, further comprising a display module for displaying an interactive map from which an image of the property can be acquired.

Claim 7: The system according to Claim 6, wherein the image is an aerial image showing a roof of the property and the roof area can be approximated based on the roof of the property as shown in the aerial image.

Claim 8: The system according to Claim 7, wherein the roof area is approximated by selecting points on the aerial image corresponding to features of the roof. Claim 9: The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, wherein specifying an electricity generator comprises providing an approximate cost for purchase and installation of the electricity generator.

Claim 10: The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, further comprising a project store for storing information about the electricity generator once specified, the store being accessible to electricity generator installers to provide quotes for installing the electricity generator.

Claim 11: A method for specifying an electricity generator for installation at a property, the method comprising:

receiving data comprising:

Claim 12: The method of Claim 11, wherein the step of specifying an electricity generator comprises specifying a solar power system.

Claim 13: The method of Claim 12, wherein the step of specifying a solar power system comprises specifying a photovoltaic power system.

Claim 14: The method according to any one of Claims 11 to 13, wherein the step of receiving one or more non-physical parameters relating to the property comprises receiving at least one parameter selected to be identifiable from an electricity bill relating to the property.

Claim 15: The method according to any one of Claims 11 to 14, wherein the step of specifying an electricity generator comprises providing an approximate cost for purchase and installation of the electricity generator. Claim 16: The method according to any one of Claims 11 to 15, further storing information about the electricity generator, once specified, in a project store and making the project store accessible to electricity generator installers to provide quotes for installing the electricity generator.

Claim 17: A system for calculating a pollutant differential, comprising:

a data receiver module for receiving output data relating to an electrical output of one or more electricity generators;

a processor configured to calculate the pollutant differential based on a difference between an amount of one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators when producing the electrical output and an amount of the same one or more pollutants that would be produced if the electrical output were generated using a generator powered by fossil fuel; and

a display module configured to display the pollutant differential. Claim 18: The system of Claim 17, wherein the amount of the one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators is assumed to be zero.

Claim 19: The system of Claim 17 or 18, wherein the pollutant differential comprises the amount of carbon-dioxide emissions saved by generating electricity using the electricity generators.

Claim 20: The system of any one of Claims 17 to 19, wherein the pollutant differential is displayed in real-time.

Claim 21: The system of any one of Claims 17 to 20, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate, from the output data, at least one parameter selected from: an instantaneous power output of the electricity generators; an average power output of the electricity generators; electricity produced by the electricity generators over a period of time; average electricity production achieved by the electricity generators over a period of time; cost savings achieved using the electricity generators when compared with purchasing power from an electricity provider, and wherein the display module is configured to display one or more parameters.

Claim 22: The system of Claim 21, further comprising a memory for storing the pollutant differential and the one or more parameters, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate trend data and the display is further configured to display a trend corresponding to the trend data. Claim 23: The system of Claim 21, further comprising a memory for storing the pollutant differential and the one or more parameters, wherein the processor is further configured to calculate comparison data for comparing the pollutant differential and/or the one or more parameters at selected time intervals, and the display is further configured to display the comparison data.

Claim 24: The system of any one of Claims 17 to 23, wherein the display module is configured to display the pollutant differential over the internet. Claim 25: A method for displaying a pollutant differential, comprising:

receiving output data relating to an electrical output of one or more electricity generators; calculating the pollutant differential based on a difference between an amount of one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators when producing the electrical output and an amount of the same one or more pollutants that would be produced if the electrical output were generated using a generator powered by fossil fuel; and

displaying the pollutant differential.

Claim 26: The method of Claim 25, wherein the step of calculating the pollutant differential comprises assuming the amount of the one or more pollutants produced by the electricity generators is zero.

Claim 27: The method of Claim 25 or 26, wherein the step of calculating the pollutant differential comprises calculating the amount of carbon-dioxide emissions saved by generating electricity using the electricity generator(s).

Claim 28: The method of any one of Claims 25 to 27, wherein the step of displaying the pollutant differential comprises displaying the pollutant differential in real-time.

Claim 29: The method of any one of Claims 25 to 28, wherein the step of displaying the pollutant differential comprises displaying the pollutant differential over the internet.

Claim 30: A system for supplying an enablement facility, comprising:

an input module configured to receive: project data defining a solar installation project, the project comprising a specified electricity generator associated with an initiator, and the project data comprising a project value and projected electricity usage;

data defining an electricity tariff rate; and

a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate;

a processor configured to determine a forecast enablement yield relative to the project value, based on the electricity tariff rate as adjusted by the tariff adjustment, the project value and projected electricity usage; and

a display configured to display a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield,

wherein the input module is further configured to receive at least one project enablement confirmation associated with the project profile, each project enablement confirmation of the at least one project enablement confirmation comprising an enablement value, and the processor is further configured to apply the respective enablement value to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

Claim 31: The system of claim 30, wherein the input module is configured to receive a plurality of project enablement confirmations associated with the project profile, and the processor is configured to apply the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation, of the plurality of project enablement confirmations, to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

Claim 32: The system of claim 30, wherein the enablement facility comprises a fully enabled value and the processor is configured to reject further project enablement confirmations when a sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value.

Claim 33: The system of claim 32, wherein the processor is further configured to implement a timer associated with the enablement facility, the timer specifying a time by which the sum of the enablement value or enablement values must be equal to or greater than the fully enabled value.

Claim 34: The system of claim 33, wherein the processor is further configured to reject the at least one project enablement confirmation if the sum of the enablement value or enablement values is less than the fully enabled value at the specified time. Claim 35: A method for supplying an enablement facility, comprising:

receiving:

project data defining a solar installation project, the project data specifying an electricity generator associated with an initiator, and comprising a project value and projected electricity usage;

data defining an electricity tariff rate; and

a tariff adjustment for adjusting the tariff rate;

determining a forecast enablement yield relative to the project value, based on the electricity tariff rate as adjusted by the tariff adjustment, the project value and projected electricity usage;

displaying a project profile comprising the project data and the forecast enablement yield; receiving at least one project enablement confirmation associated with the project profile, each project enablement confirmation of the at least one project enablement confirmation comprising an enablement value; and

applying the respective enablement value to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility.

Claim 36: the method of claim 35, wherein the receiving step comprises receiving a plurality of project enablement confirmations associated with the project profile, and the applying step comprises applying the enablement value of each project enablement confirmation, of the plurality of project enablement confirmations, to the enablement facility thereby to supply the enablement facility. Claim 37: The method of claim 35, wherein the enablement facility comprises a fully enabled value and the method further comprises:

rejecting further project enablement confirmations when the sum of the enablement value or enablement values of the at least one project enablement confirmation is equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. Claim 38: The method of claim 37, implementing a timer associated with the enablement facility, the timer specifying a time by which the sum of the enablement value or enablement values must be equal to or greater than the fully enabled value. Claim 39: The method of claim 38, further comprising rejecting the at least one project enablement confirmation if the sum of the enablement value or enablement values is less than the fully enabled value at the specified time.

Claim 40: A system for specifying a preliminary construction value for an electricity generator, comprising:

a display module for displaying an interface to an installer, the interface comprising a plurality of components that, when assembled, at least partially form the electricity generator, the interface being configured to enable an installer to input a plurality of values into an input module, the values collectively at least partially specifying the construction value for the electricity generator; the input module, the input module being for receiving data comprising the plurality of values, each value comprising either a component value of a respective component from the plurality of components of the electricity generator, or a non-component value relating to assembly of the components to form the electricity generator; and

a processor for specifying the preliminary construction value at least partially based on the plurality of values.

Claim 41. The system of claim 40, wherein the plurality of components are derived from a standardised list of components. Claim 42. The system of claim 40, wherein each component of the plurality of components is selectable from a menu of similar components each of which can be interchangeably assembled with the other components of the plurality of components to form the electricity generator.

Claim 43. A system according to claim 40, wherein the display is configured to display parameters of a property at which the electricity generator is to be assembled.

Claim 44. A system according to claim 43, wherein the parameters comprise at least one of a height of a building at the property and a roof type of a roof of the building.