Heat Dynamics: Industry's Solar Transition and Thermal Considerations

Recent alarming climate events, including scorching heatwaves and extreme temperatures witnessed in Bhubaneswar, where temperatures soared to a staggering 45.4°C, underscore the urgency of addressing climate change. This incidents of heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inadequate planning and the profound impact of climate change on our planet.

When temperatures exceed the average assumptions for a solar installation, several issues may arise:

1. Decreased Efficiency: Solar panels typically operate less efficiently at higher temperatures due to the semiconductor materials used in solar cells becoming less effective at converting sunlight into electricity as they heat up.
2. Reduced Output: Higher temperatures can lead to a decrease in the output of a solar installation, potentially affecting its ability to meet the demands of users or the grid.
3. Increased Degradation: Extended exposure to high temperatures can accelerate the degradation of solar panels, leading to a decrease in their overall lifespan and requiring more frequent maintenance or replacement.
4. Inverter Issues: Inverters, which convert DC electricity generated by solar panels into usable AC electricity, may experience decreased efficiency or operational issues in high temperatures.
5. Overheating Risks: In extreme cases, solar panels can overheat, potentially causing damage to the panels or other components of the solar installation. Proper ventilation and cooling mechanisms are crucial for mitigating this risk. Especially in India, where the overloading on the DC side is like a standard and such incidents can severely impact the performances and can be potential fire hazard.

As solar energy gains momentum as a clean and sustainable power source, maximizing the performance and longevity of solar installations becomes increasingly crucial.

One innovative installation practise that getting momentum is an integrated solar panels or so called inroof panels. This is a novel installation practice which surely gives a great appeal in terms of aesthetic and performance especially which it is used for Buildings ( commercial ones). We should have more and more such installations on commercial buildings as it offers multiple benefits.

However when it comes to Industrial installations, high temperatures and integrated roof installations pose specific challenges that require careful consideration and strategic solutions.

During peak events, ambient temperatures on standard roofs (tin sheds) can reach all-time highs, especially in Industries as there are a lot of heating processes under the roofs. This could lead to output reduction for solar panels installed on tin sheds due to heat as the under the roof-temperature adds up to the Ambient and the solar panels are subjected to excessive heat form both the sides. Furthermore, integrated roofs, while aesthetically appealing, may have lower per-unit production capacity in the long term compared to standard designs with a metal roof above the solar panels since the roofs prevent direct heat transfer and a sufficient distance of 100mm is maintained in such installations between the roof and the modules.

It is critical to underscore the consideration regarding the installation of integrated panels on industrial rooftops, emphasizing the potential challenges and implications associated with this practice. Customers must thoroughly evaluate the effects of heat generated from under-the-roof equipment on the performance and longevity of such installations.

Industrial facilities typically house various heat-generating processes, including furnaces and boilers. The heat emitted from these processes can significantly elevate the ambient temperature under the roof, directly affecting the performance of integrated panels. Elevated temperatures can lead to decreased efficiency and output of solar panels, ultimately diminishing the return on investment and sustainability benefits expected from the installation. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can accelerate the degradation of panel components, leading to premature failure and costly replacements.

The adverse effects of heat interference extend beyond the performance of integrated panels. Elevated temperatures can impact the overall operational environment within industrial facilities, potentially leading to equipment malfunctions, production delays, and increased energy consumption for cooling purposes.

Given these considerations, customers must exercise caution and carefully evaluate the suitability of integrated panel installations in industrial settings. Alternative approaches, such as ground-mounted solar arrays or the standard rooftop solutions, may offer more viable and sustainable options for meeting energy needs without exposing critical equipment to undue heat stress.

Adoption of new technology can indeed be a significant driver of progress and efficiency, but it's crucial to prioritize the right technologies for implementation. Choosing the right technology involves various factors like assessing its potential impact on your organisation, considering its compatibility with existing systems, evaluating its long-term sustainability, and understanding its implications.

Moreover, prioritizing technology should align with your organization's goals and objectives. It's not just about adopting the latest trend but rather about selecting tools and solutions that address specific challenges or opportunities in the most effective manner.

We trust that the insights provided in this article will assist you in evaluating the risk factors associated with your solar initiatives, empowering you to make well-informed decisions. Should you desire further assistance or support for your solar endeavors, please feel free to reach out to us at info@uronenergy.com. We're here to help at URON® !