Recovering 1% of Lost Energy with Shading Mitigation

Context

A large photovoltaic plant was experiencing underperformance problems in inverter #25 during the morning, caused by shading between the photovoltaic tables (arrays). This was directly related to a poor configuration of the backtracking system and possible unevenness in the terrain.

In addition to reducing the energy output generated by the installed modules, shading can accelerate the degradation and useful life of the equipment, thus compromising its efficiency and durability over the years. Recognizing and correcting these situations was essential to ensure optimum use of resources and minimize long-term financial losses.

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Implemented solution

Using the Energy Losses Waterfall tool, it was possible to assess energy losses and identify the inverters most affected by shading. The graphical data showed that in the critical morning period, inverter #25 had a significant energy loss, contributing to approximately a 1% reduction in total energy production.

Based on the data, it was possible to:
- Isolate the problem related to morning shading and identify its origin in the unevenness of the terrain and inadequate configuration of the backtracking.
- Implement corrections to the backtracking system to mitigate the impact.
- Ensure a reassessment of the layout and operational adjustments to prevent recurrences.

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Results

The corrective actions have generated the following benefits:
- Increased energy production: Recovery of the loss of 1% of the affected inverter's potential.
- Reduced impact on photovoltaic modules: Mitigation of conditions that accelerate component degradation.
- Optimization of overall plant performance: Improvement in overall system performance.

After the corrections, inverter #25 performed in line with expectations, ensuring efficient and sustainable operation.

Conclusion

With the Delfos solution, it was possible not only to identify a critical and recurring problem in photovoltaic plants, but also to correct it quickly and effectively. This resulted in maximizing energy generation and extending the useful life of the modules, delivering tangible results and adding value to the plant's assets.

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Benefits

• 1% of producible energy recovered in the affected inverter.
• 99.81% efficiency measured on the expected energy after correction.
• Longer module life, with less degradation over time.

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