How can you optimize solar PV systems during low humidity?

2 How to optimize panel orientation

In order to optimize your solar PV system during low humidity, adjusting the orientation of the panels is one of the best ways to go. This orientation determines how much sunlight the panels receive and how they interact with their environment. Depending on where you are located and what season it is, you may want to change the tilt angle or the azimuth angle of your panels to maximize their exposure and minimize their heating. For instance, in winter you could increase the tilt angle to capture more sunlight and reduce snow accumulation, while in summer you may want to decrease the tilt angle to reduce direct radiation and increase cooling via wind. Additionally, it is important to align the azimuth angle with either the south or north direction in order to follow the sun's path and avoid shading.

3 How to optimize panel cooling

Another way to optimize your solar PV system during low humidity is to improve the cooling of the panels. Cooling can help lower the operating temperature of the panels and increase their efficiency and lifespan. Different methods of cooling exist, such as passive cooling, which involves using natural ventilation, air gaps, or heat sinks to dissipate the heat from the panels. Passive cooling is simple and cost-effective, yet it may not be enough in very hot and dry conditions. Alternatively, active cooling utilizes fans, pumps, or sprays to circulate air or water around the panels. This method is more effective and controllable; however, it requires more energy and equipment. Lastly, hybrid cooling combines passive and active cooling to achieve the best balance between performance and cost.

5 How to optimize grid integration

A fourth way to optimize your solar PV system during low humidity is to improve the integration with the grid. Integration can help balance the supply and demand of electricity, as well as maintain the stability and reliability of the grid. Aspects of integration include power quality, power dispatch, and power security. Power quality involves maintaining voltage, frequency, and harmonics within acceptable ranges, which can be affected by low humidity. To improve power quality, you may need to use transformers, inverters, or filters to regulate and convert electricity. Power dispatch involves managing the output and input of electricity from different sources and loads, which can be challenging in low humidity. To improve power dispatch, you may need to use smart meters, controllers, or batteries to monitor and store electricity. Lastly, power security requires protecting the grid from faults, failures, or attacks. Low humidity can increase the risk of fires, breakdowns, or cyberattacks; thus, you may need to use sensors, switches, or firewalls to detect and isolate problems.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?