Solar Open Access Resource: SOAR – Snow and PV system reliability

There is a large interest in the more accurate snow loss estimates for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as large-scale deployments move into northern latitudes. There have been many studies on different types of PV systems and different types of modules. Preliminary results show bifacial modules may clear snow faster than monofacial PV. This study will start with a literature review of all losses (and gains) from snow on PV. It will complete an in-depth analysis of snow losses to provide guidance for PV system installers in the north. The results will be presented to the PV technical community in a freely accessible knowledge base.

Faculty Supervisor:

Joshua Pearce

Student:

Partner:

Heliolytics Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: