By Daniel Cross, Senor Director of Load Forecasting, POWWR
A recent study found that the sunniest place on earth is on a large plain near the Andes Mountains in Chile, which can see as much sun as Venus. Even on average, the solar irradiance on the plateau is around 308 watts per square meter, meaning that the solar energy potential in the region is roughly twice as high than in Central Europe. However, whether someone is based in Chile or Chichester, they are likely increasingly looking to the skies as a source of power as traditional fossil fuels continue to be phased out.
Solar has gathered momentum as a key power source in the past decade. Partly, this is due to advancements in solar technology and partly this is due to supportive government policies. Its popularity has also been buoyed by the decreasing costs of solar installations, and increasing awareness of the environmental benefits. Plus, there has been the significant advancements in battery technology.
Better batteries
One of the key areas of improvement in batteries has been in energy density. Modern lithium-ion batteries have far better energy density than in the past, allowing for longer-lasting batteries in smaller, lighter packages. Another key area of improvement has been in charging speed. Innovations in battery chemistry and thermal management are enabling much faster charging times. In fact, some new technologies allow batteries to reach 80% charge in as little as 15 minutes.
In addition, modern solar batteries have a longer lifespan, less degradation, are safer and often have in-built smart battery management systems (BMS) that can monitor battery health, optimise charging and discharging cycles, and predict potential failures.
Levelling the grid
Enhancements in battery technology is timely. Increasingly volatile extreme weather patterns, data centres required to power the new era of artificial intelligence, population increases in urban areas, and the popularity of electric vehicles are all putting more load on the power grid than ever before.
Advancements in battery technology have paved the way for batteries to play a crucial role in a wide range in large-scale renewable energy storage and, therefore, grid stabilisation. Not only are enhanced battery technologies being integrated into the grid to store energy from renewable sources such as solar to smooth out supply fluctuations. But those being used in public sector solar power systems allow the storing of solar energy for use at night or other times when the sun is no longer reaching the panels. Plus, such efficient battery storage has made it easier for to push excess energy back to the grid at opportune times.
Maximising efficiency
Whether a public sector building gets 12 hours of sunlight a day or 12 minutes, maximising the efficiency and effectiveness of the solar energy system is imperative. The first key aspect of solar optimisation is, unsurprising, ensuring that the angle and direction of the solar panels are adjusted to capture the most sunlight. This means orienting the panels towards the equator and tilting them at an angle that maximises exposure to the sun. Using tracking systems to follow the sun’s path from east to west during the day can make them even more effective. Do make sure that solar panels are placed where they will not be shaded by trees, buildings, or other obstructions throughout the day.
Using advanced photovoltaic technology to increase the conversion rate of sunlight to electricity can also help. As can regular cleaning of the panels to remove dirt and debris that would otherwise reduce their efficiency.
There are several ways that technology can help too.Software and Internet of Things (IoT) devices can be used to monitor and track the performance of solar systems in real time. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) can be used to analyse huge data sets on weather conditions and average cloud coverage to ensure that an end user gets the most out of their system. Finally, data analytics can be used to predict and prevent potential issues before they impact system performance.
Journey to a renewable future
Another important component is the energy industry itself. Whilst government incentives are welcome, it is also important that suppliers reward those who embark upon a journey towards a renewable future. Energy suppliers need to do all they can to encourage the public sector to use their batteries effectively so that any excess energy produced can find its way back to the grid. After all, it is a win, win. In addition to the obvious environmental benefits, the more that can help with energy production, the more consistent energy supply will be for all.
This article appeared in the September 2024 issue of Energy Manager magazine. Subscribe here.