Published on July 12, 2018
Results from a study led by NAIT’s Alternative Energy Technology program include good news for Canadians looking to install solar panels
Until now, the industry estimated photovoltaic solar panels lose about 20 per cent of their energy because of snow buildup in winter. The five-year NAIT study found the energy loss to be much less – only about three per cent.
The study, done in cooperation with the city of Edmonton, Solar Energy Society of Alberta and Howell-Mayhew Engineering, looked at 12 solar modules installed atop the Shaw Theatre on NAIT’s main campus. It measured the impact of snow on the system as well as how the tilt of each module affected energy production.
Researchers found the angle of the solar panels has a far greater impact on energy production than snowfall. The ideal angle for maximum energy production with snow accumulation was 45 degrees.
Data was collected from the solar modules every five minutes every day for five years – enough to fill 6,000 spreadsheets. Two Alternative Energy students analyzed the data as part of their final course project.
QUOTES
Tim Matthews, NAIT Alternative Energy technologist and one of the study’s leads
“Having this information raises the level of precision when it comes to engineering, design and production modelling. A company that’s doing solar installation and design can go to a client and say, ‘This is precise. You can take this to the bank.’”
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About NAIT
The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) is a leading Canadian polytechnic, delivering education in science, technology and the environment; business; health and trades. With nearly 60,000 credit and non-credit students and a 95 per cent employer satisfaction rate, NAIT grads are essential to Alberta’s prosperity. Known for hands-on, technology-based learning, NAIT engages with business and industry in applied research and innovation and provides corporate training around the world. Recognized as one of Alberta’s top employers, NAIT provides outstanding returns on investment for its graduates, partners, the provincial government and the people of Alberta.
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Solar panels shine despite winter's blast, NAIT study finds
Five-year study by alternative energy experts shows snow has little impact on panels' effectiveness
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