In the face of climate change challenges, the world is experiencing a pivotal shift towards renewable energies, with solar power leading the charge, due to the continuous improvement in module efficiency and the rapid decrement in solar systems prices.
Due to the great scale flexibility of solar energy system, they have been installed in a wide range of installation scenarios, such as rooftops, parking lots, floating, ground mounted, etc… Which raise the question of the suitability of different PV technologies at different installation scenarios, and getting the maximum value that can be attained from the PV station installed. When it comes to inverters, the project’s size and application plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate inverter type. Whether it’s a utility-scale inverter or another variant, the same principle can be employed in PV panels to maximize the overall value of the photovoltaic station.
As diverse markets emerge to meet different needs, a critical question arises: are all solar panels universally suitable for various customer requirements and installation scenarios? Typically categorized into utility-scale projects and distributed generation (DG) projects, the basic factors that impact the selection of solar panels in a project revolves around reducing the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) while ensuring reliability in specific installation scenarios and meeting the regulatory needs. Let’s delve into the different factors that guide the choice of solar panels, focusing on key factors in DG installations.
Energy Yield: Tailoring Solution for Different Installation Scenarios
As obvious getting the maximum energy that can be attained from a PV panel is the main goal of our installation, in utility scale projects the installation in most of the cases is ground mounted, with fixed or tracker used to maximize the yield. In this case scenario, the best option to maximize the energy yield is going with high efficiency panels with high bi-faciality factor, to ensure maximum power generation from both sides.
Most of the distributed generation installation scenario is different, the DG stations are installed close to the customer premises, for example at the rooftops, whether for homes or large industrial and commercial sites. In this case, the front side of the PV panel can only be used to generate energy, due to the small gap between the rooftop and the PV panel. Therefore, in this case the best option is to go with high efficiency mono facial PV module. To maximize the power generated from the front side, Back Contact (BC) technology is the way to go. The main advantageous of this technology is the full utilization of the front side in power generation, with the elimination of the losses caused by dead zones and shading that is caused by the busbars and p-n junctions in the front side, which exceeds 2% in some of the cases.
In scenarios with low clearance between the roof and the panel, employing bifacial solar panels may have adverse effects, potentially leading to decreased overall yield. This is attributed to the uneven distribution or absence of light on the backside of the panels. Panels positioned at the sides may receive more sunlight exposure, generating more energy than those in the middle. Consequently, this imbalance in energy production can contribute to increased mismatch losses within the string.
Local Regulation and Aesthetics: Aligning with Unique Spaces
Local regulations and aesthetics take centre stage in DG projects. While utility-scale projects enjoy more flexibility in adhering to regulatory requirements, DG installations, often in urban or commercial spaces, must align with specific regulations, such as anti-glare & glint requirements in the airports, highways, or urban areas inside the city, to avoid disability or discomfort caused by the glare from the PV panels. Aesthetics as well, play a pivotal role in the choice of solar panels, ensuring seamless integration into the environment. The adoption of BC technology can address anti-glaring requirements, and that is due to the absence of metallization in the front side, which prevents the reflection of light caused by the metallization. With the added layers of anti-reflective coating, it significantly contributes to glint and glare management.
LONGi has consistently prioritized the enhancement of customer value through the provision of cost-effective products, rooted in its core values. From spearheading the transition to monocrystalline silicon PV panels to diversifying its product offerings across various customer segments. In the current landscape of the PV market, LONGi stands out as the sole PV manufacturer that has tailored distinct products for different customer bases, underscoring the fundamental principle that LONGi’s focus is on optimizing the value delivered to its clients. Catering to distributed generation (DG) clients, LONGi has introduced HiMO X6, leveraging back contact technology to ensure the PV station yields maximum value. Meanwhile, for utility projects, the HiMO7, predominantly bifacial in nature, emerges as the preferred solution for attaining optimal value.
As the solar energy landscape evolves, understanding the distinct demands of utility-scale and DG projects becomes imperative. Efficiency, local regulations, aesthetics, and reliability are pivotal factors influencing the choice of solar panels. Recognizing the nuanced requirements of different markets ensures getting the maximum value that can be attained from the investment in the PV systems.
By Ahmed Mohmmed LONGi MENA – Product and Solution Specialist
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