Solar Power Plants

Solar power plants use energy from the sun. Solar energy is also converted into electrical energy using photovoltaic panels. Solar panels collect light energy from the sun and convert it into electrical energy that feeds the grid.

The most common type of solar power plant is the traditional photovoltaic (PV) option. These plants are considered a renewable option as solar energy is a clean, renewable, abundant, and inexpensive resource.

Panel modules are typically oriented towards the equator and the tilt angle is slightly lower than the site’s latitude. Different tilt angles can be researched to find optimal power production. Once solar energy is collected, solar panels convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.

Typically, solar power plants are installed on large open areas, and solar power plants that produce significant amounts of electricity are built.

The performance of solar power plants is a function of both the quality of the equipment used in the system and the climatic conditions.

Additionally, locations with higher sunlight provide higher electricity production. The efficiency of solar energy systems also varies depending on the type of panel used. This conversion efficiency is crucial as it affects the overall efficiency of the system. Other system losses include losses between DC output and AC input.

The financial performance of a solar system is the effect of its revenue and costs. When it comes to the costs associated with such energy production, operational and maintenance costs are also considered.

It is crucial to have timely maintenance and thermographic inspection of solar power plants. Our MapperX software, developed by a team of expert engineers and software developers, utilizes the power of image processing and machine learning technologies to detect faults in solar power plants with 99% accuracy. MapperX also performs fault detection based on temperature data of the panels after world-class inspections using digital field imaging techniques. MapperX adds value to investments and provides solutions to problems that hinder the production of facilities.

What Is Photovoltaic (PV) Technology and How Does It Work?

PV converts sunlight into electrical energy. A single PV device is known as a cell. A single PV cell is typically small and produces around 1 or 2 watts of power. These cells are made from various semiconductor materials. To withstand outdoor conditions for many years, cells are encapsulated between protective materials in a combination of glass and/or plastic.

To increase the power output of PV cells, they are connected in chains to form larger units known as modules or panels. Modules can be used individually or several can be combined to create arrays. PV systems can be built to meet almost any electrical energy needs, small or large.

PV modules and arrays are just one part of a PV system. Systems also include components that convert the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the modules into alternating current (AC) electricity used to power all devices, as well as mounting structures that orient the panels towards the sun. You can also check out our article What Is Photovoltaic (PV) Technology?.

What Factors Affect Solar PV System Efficiency?

Environmental factors such as temperature, pollution, and shading, as well as losses in electrical components, can affect the efficiency of a PV system.

Temperature

Solar panel efficiency varies with temperature. High temperatures negatively affect performance.

Pollution

Accumulated material on the surface of PV panels can block light from reaching the panels, reducing the power produced. Power loss due to pollution varies significantly depending on the type of pollution (such as dust or snow) and the frequency of cleaning.

Shading

Shading is the obstruction of sunlight due to surrounding trees, buildings, terrain, and other objects. The effect of shading on the power output of a solar energy installation varies considerably.

Inverter Efficiency

Converting DC to AC through an inverter is typically about 96-97% efficient. In fact, inverters generally have higher efficiency when the DC input power is high. When the input power is much less than the nominal power of the inverter, the conversion efficiency decreases.