Page 27 - North American Clean Energy May June 2018 Issue

Advantages of Solar PV Systems in Cold-Climate Regions Nevertheless, cold-climate regions show an exceptional set of favorable conditions for PV. Silicon-based PV modules perform considerably better in colder temperatures. Module e ciency at 0°C can be up to
12.5 percent higher; snow accumulations surrounding the PV modules can act
as a mirror, increasing both the solar radiation reaching the modules and the energy yield. Similarly, because copper resistance decreases at lower temperatures, electric losses in the conductors are reduced. In fact, ideal conditions for PV modules include high solar radiation, low temperatures, and high ground re ectivity.
In standard conditions, the main
cause of PV module degradation is the heat generated by the incident solar irradiation. Since cold weather helps keep module temperature low, PV systems in cold climates are expected to have longer service lives. In fact, PV systems installed in northern Canadian locations have been operating for more than 35 years with lower degradation rates than expected, and almost no O&M issues reported.
Some cutting-edge technologies remain to be tested in northern locations. Such
is the case for bifacial PV modules, which may pro t from high snow re ectivity, therefore increasing energy yield and promoting faster snow and ice melting. Passive and active melting technologies can also be tested in PV systems. One example of passive technology is the ice-phobic coatings that impede rime or glaze from forming on the PV modules, while reverse ow-current through the modules to generate heat is an active melting technique already used in some European PV systems.
Despite existing restrictions, cold- climate regions represent a bene cial environment for solar energy systems. PV modules are easy to install and operate, have no moving parts, and perform particularly well in cold climates. Indeed, overcast locations are less favorable to solar PV deployment than cold, snowy sites. Furthermore, by combining PV with wind energy in higher latitudes, operators can take advantage of regions where lower solar radiation seasons often coincide with higher winds. With the proper design, solar PV can become a mainstream energy source for northern isolated locations, replacing polluting diesel generators, and improving energy source diversi cation and availability.
Figure 3: Capacity factors for wind and solar PV in Arviat, Canada (N 61° 6.4984', W 94° 3.5971')
Nergica is a centre of applied research that stimulates innovation in the renewable energy industry through research, technical assistance, technology transfer, and technical support for businesses and communities. Known until recently as the TechnoCentre éolien, Nergica has been active for nearly 20 years in the eld of renewables, and is an o cial college centre for technology transfer (CCTT) a liated with the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles.
Nergica | www.nergica.com
Sergio C. Gualteros is an Analyst of Research and Innovation at Nergica. Drawing on his expertise in integrating renewables into electric systems, his projects foster the development of innovative solutions for energy e ciency and the transition to cleaner energies.
Pierre Beaudoin is a Project Manager of Research and Innovation at Nergica. He is a specialist in the integration of o -grid renewables, and has been working in the eld for over 25 years.
Matthew Wadham-Gagnon is a Business Development Manager at Nergica. With more than 10 years of engineering experience as project manager, coordinator, and guest speaker, he has acquired leading-edge expertise in his eld of activity.
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