Low-cost modular array-field designs for flat-panel and concentrator photovoltaic systems

Conference · Wed Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1982 · Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5425079

Post, H N; Alexander, G; Carmichael, D C; Castle, J A

This paper describes the design and development of low-cost, modular array fields for flatpanel and concentrator photovoltaic (PV) systems. The objective of the work was to reduce substantially the cost of the array-field balance-of-system (BOS) subsystems and site-specific design costs as compared to previous PV installations. These subsystems include site preparation, foundations, support structures, electrical wiring, grounding, lightning protection, electromagnetic interference considerations, and controls. To reduce these BOS and design costs, standardized modular (building-block) designs for flat-panel and concentrator array fields have been developed that are fully integrated and optimized for lowest life-cycle costs. Using drawings and specifications now available, these building-block designs can be used in multiples to install various size array fields. The developed designs are immediately applicable and reduce the array-field BOS costs to a small fraction of previous costs. Prototype array fields are currently being installed using each of the two alternative building-block designs developed for flat-panel PV array fields.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM
• OSTI ID: 5425079
• Report Number(s): CONF-820906-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Conf. Rec. IEEE Photovoltaic Spec. Conf.; (United States)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140600* -- Solar Energy-- Photovoltaic Power Systems
CONTROL
COST
DESIGN
ELECTRIC GROUNDS
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
ENERGY SYSTEMS
EQUIPMENT
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
FOUNDATIONS
IEUS
LIGHTNING ARRESTERS
MECHANICAL STRUCTURES
MIUS
MODULAR STRUCTURES
OPTIMIZATION
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANTS
POWER PLANTS
SITE PREPARATION
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR POWER PLANTS
STANDARDIZATION
SUPPORTS
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
WIRES