RETC (Renewable Energy Test Center)’s Post

This NREL report on solar panel glass breakages points out some serious challenges in the design of modern PV modules. At PanelClaw, we have anticipated this.   Three years back, we saw these challenges coming and introduced a revolutionary long-sided clamping system, specifically designed for panels exceeding 2 meters in length. This solution tackles the ‘big floppy modules’ issue that National Renewable Energy Laboratory mentions. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴:  ✅distributes mechanical stress more evenly across the entire panel length ✅minimizes micro-fractures that develop under wind, snow, and thermal expansion loads ✅ provides better structural support for larger, more flexible modules The research highlights how crucial it is to have well-thought-out mounting systems. By spreading the load more evenly and minimizing stress during installation, we help prevent damage to the panel, especially glass damage and microcracks. Do you want to hear more how our smart design can reduce risks and boost the reliability of your project? Contact our experts and set up an appointment today! https://lnkd.in/gz73vXiV

A recent study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory indicates that the trend toward deploying larger and thinner photovoltaic (PV) modules is linked to increased glass breakage in utility-scale solar projects. In this article, which references research from Kiwa PVEL, the authors note that modules utilizing glass thinner than 3.2mm may be more susceptible to "spontaneous breakage." Read more via PV Tech >> https://lnkd.in/gz73vXiV or access the full report >> https://lnkd.in/edsw7_5P To see more insights from this year's Scorecard visit, scorecard.pvel.com ☀️

The growing trend of building larger and thinner PV modules has contributed to an increased number of breaks in module glass at utility-scale solar projects, although there is no single contributing factor more influential than the others.

Larger and thinner PV modules has contributed to increase breakages, although there is no single contributing factor, according to NREL. #solar

Cooling bifacial PV thermal solar panels with jet impingement: Scientists created a model to study bifacial PV thermal (BPVT) solar panels using jet impingement and built an experimental setup to validate it. They achieved a thermal efficiency of 62.28%, while electrical efficiency peaked at 11.22%. #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #innovation

Take a glimpse of the jaw dropping, beautiful landscapes of KPI Green Energy's Solar & Hybrid Parks. Watch the video: https://lnkd.in/dpjDPxJd

⚠ The accumulation of dust, soot, or other particulates causes a drop in the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels and limits the amount of power produced. Additionally, when PV panels cool down at night and attract morning dew, the soil can become cemented onto the panels. “What we’ve seen anecdotally by looking at aged molecules under the microscope, is after a few years [solar panels] just have some sort of surface contamination that we just cannot get off, no matter how much we scrub it. In order to remove it, you actually have to scratch the glass.” - Sarah Toth, PHD 💸 Cost on Solar Operators : The energy lost annually from soiling ranges from 7% in parts of the United States to 50% in places like the Middle East. A one-time cleaning for a 10-megawatt solar farm can cost an estimated $5,000. In areas with high soiling and low precipitation, it is best to clean panels multiple times per year. 🧠 The Solution: The hydrophilic properties of Phazebreak Coatings’ SurfaceSlip coating aim to assist with the compounding problems presented by soiling, especially in susceptible arid environments. Our goal is to manage the accumulation of dust and particles as well as minimize the amount of cleaning required by operators, ensuring better efficiency with less hassle. Want to learn more? Reach out to our sales reps: 📧 : Dave Rupp - dave.rupp@phazebreak.com 📧 : Matiss Sivins - matiss.sivins@phazebreak.com 📖 Further reading: https://lnkd.in/gSCaP3qm #solarenergy #renewableenergy #PV #hydrophilic #coatings

Big refurb project completed

New data for Solar Project designers to consider: Study finds excessive row spacing has limited effect on improving PV system performance Scientists in China have tested the influence of panel row spacing in increasing a PV system performance in a full-scale outdoor PV array experimental platform. They found that larger row spacing plays a limited role in improving thermal convection, observing that solar irradiance and wind speed are the key parameters for optimal PV system design. https://lnkd.in/gEYaqEn5

THE IMPACT OF SHADOW ON SOLAR PV SYSTEM Shadows can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Here are the key impacts: Power Reduction: Even minor shading can drastically reduce power output. Hot Spots: Shaded cells can overheat, leading to potential damage and reduced panel lifespan. Efficiency Losses: Shaded panels cause mismatch losses, lowering overall system efficiency. TO MITIGATE THESE ISSUES: Shadow Analysis: Conduct thorough shadow analysis during the planning phase to identify potential shading issues throughout the year. Optimal Site Selection: Choose locations with minimal shading. Regular Maintenance: Trim trees and remove obstacles. Strategic Design: Arrange panels to prevent self-shading. #James Nnuga