Large-scale businesses have substantial energy consumption, adding significantly to the operating expenses of the businesses. Today’s sustainable energy solutions like solar energy and wind energy are not only good for the environment but have also become economically better options than brown power for businesses. Years of technological innovation, government support, and widespread adoption have made power from sustainable sources like solar and wind cheaper than coal. In turn, this has made these sustainable energy solutions not only environmentally friendly but also a cost-effective option for industrial settings.
One of the best options for solar energy solutions in today’s market for commercial purposes is ground-mounted solar power plants. Due to the overall popularity, the market size is growing by a CAGR of 9.56% and is forecasted to reach 9.65 billion by 2027.1 These power plants are set up on the ground instead of a rooftop for getting ample exposure to sunlight. Now every industry can’t have a dedicated land and setup for a solar power plant. This is where Power Purchase Agreements or PPAs come into the picture. These agreements allow businesses to receive solar energy without owning the power plant. To understand PPAs better you must know how a solar power plant works in a ground-mounted setting. Here we will talk about the types, working, maintenance, and energy generation at a solar power plant.
What are the types of ground-mounted solar power plant panels?
Polycrystalline solar panels are created by pouring melted silicon into a mould. It’s a low-waste, reasonably priced procedure. Their solar energy conversion efficiency is between 16 and 17 percent.
Solar panels with a single crystal: As pure silicon crystals are used in these panels, they are incredibly smooth and even. You may get more electricity because of their extreme durability and 19–20% efficiency.
Bifacial Solar Panels: On top of them is a silicon coating that absorbs sunlight. And here’s the thing: they also capture sunlight reflected off surfaces like white roofs. They obtain energy by double-dipping in sunlight. These are quite sophisticated!
How does a ground-mounted solar power plant work?
Sunlight Soak: These solar power facilities function similarly to enormous solar sponges. To capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, they employ special panels.
Producing Electricity: The solar radiation that strikes these panels is converted into electrical power. Wires carrying this power are run from the panels to an apparatus known as an inverter.
Large Panels for Massive Power: Look for panels with 72 cells if you want to generate a lot of electricity. Compared to lesser ones, they are larger and have much more power.
Ideally facing the sun: These panels can absorb the most sunlight if they are oriented and angled correctly. It’s like getting them to soak up the sun for optimal vitality!
Connecting to the Grid: These power plants can link up to the regular electricity grid. They can even give extra power back to the grid, earning credits for the extra juice they make.
Easy to Take Care Of: These plants aren’t too hard to look after. They’re strong against bad weather and easy to clean. Plus, they’re good for the environment since they don’t cause pollution.
Getting the Rules Right:
Before setting up these plants, knowing the local rules and where they can be installed is essential. Sometimes, there are rules about where they can go.
How do you maintain a ground-mounted solar power plant?
Regular Cleaning: Keep the solar panels clean to maximize energy production. Dust, debris, bird droppings, and other pollutants can reduce efficiency. Cleaning schedules may vary based on location and weather conditions.
Inspections: Perform routine inspections to check for any physical damage, loose connections, or wear and tear. Inspect wiring, inverters, mounting structures, and other components.
Monitoring System Performance: Utilize monitoring software to track energy production and detect any irregularities or drops in output. This allows timely intervention in case of issues.
Vegetation Control: Maintain vegetation around the solar panels. Overgrown plants or trees can shade the panels and reduce their efficiency. Regular trimming or removal might be necessary.
Inverter Maintenance: Inverters are critical components. Follow manufacturer guidelines for servicing and maintenance. Check for proper ventilation and ensure they are functioning correctly.
Security Measures: Install security measures to prevent theft or vandalism. Remote locations can be vulnerable, so surveillance or security systems can be beneficial.
Weatherproofing: Ensure that all components are weatherproofed and protected against environmental elements. Check for corrosion, especially in areas prone to humidity or salt exposure.
Professional Servicing: Some maintenance tasks require professional assistance. Regularly schedule professional inspections and servicing to identify and address any potential issues.
Record Keeping: Maintain records of maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs. This helps track the system’s performance and identify patterns or recurring issues.
Adherence to Guidelines: Always follow manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for maintenance specific to the equipment installed in the solar power plant.
How can we increase solar energy generation with a ground-mounted solar system?
Boosting solar energy generation with a ground-mounted system involves a few strategies:
Optimal Placement: Ensure panels are placed in the best direction and angle to capture sunlight throughout the day. Adjusting the tilt angle based on your latitude can maximize energy collection.
Clean Panels Regularly: Dust, dirt, and debris can decrease efficiency. Regularly clean panels to maintain their productivity.
Using Tracking Systems: Implementing tracking systems that follow the sun’s path throughout the day (single-axis or dual-axis trackers) can significantly increase energy production by optimizing the panels’ angle towards the sun.
Upgrading Technology: Consider using high-efficiency solar panels or advanced technologies that enhance energy production. Newer panels or improved inverters can often generate more power from the same amount of sunlight.
Adding More Panels: Increasing the number of panels can directly increase energy production. Ensure enough space and consider the balance between adding more panels and available land.
Reducing Shading: Minimize shading on the panels, either from nearby structures, trees, or even other panels. Any shadow on a panel can decrease its efficiency, so keeping it clear is important.
Optimizing Maintenance: Regular maintenance ensures panels operate at their best. Promptly fix any issues to prevent loss of productivity.
Utilizing Reflective Surfaces: Using reflective surfaces or materials around the panels can help direct more sunlight onto them, increasing overall energy capture.
Battery Storage Systems: Integrate battery storage systems to store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours. This stored energy can be used during periods of low sunlight, ensuring a more consistent supply of power.
Smart Grid Integration: Connect the solar system to a smart grid to efficiently distribute excess energy to where it’s needed and minimize wastage.
Summary
Ground-mounted solar power plants are a powerful way to harvest solar energy efficiently. Sunsure Energy sets up these systems, offering energy solutions for reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy. Having a solar power PPA with Sunsure Energy means choosing a brighter, cleaner future.
