Reduction of 111 MWh in Annual Losses: Optimizing Generation by Eliminating Inter-Row Shading

Context

Shading is one of the main causes of energy losses in photovoltaic plants. Even if only one cell of a panel is shaded, the entire inverter string is affected, significantly reducing energy production. This type of shading can occur due to the presence of nearby vegetation, neighboring structures or even inadequate settings of the backtracking algorithm, generating a direct impact not only on daily efficiency, but also on the long-term degradation of the modules.

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Implemented Solution

The operational team used the Delfos platform, focusing on its Analytics Module and advanced analysis capabilities, to quickly identify the source of the problem: inter-row shading affecting the performance of a specific inverter. The data captured by Delfos showed a 2.8% reduction in the inverter's expected daily output, clearly evidenced in the performance graphs (Normalized DC Power). In addition, the Performance Heatmap and the analysis of losses such as “Shading” helped to confirm the root cause.

Impact

The analysis showed that, if left unresolved, this shading could lead to an annual loss of up to 111.3 MWh per affected inverter. By identifying and validating the problem using operational data and field inspections, it was possible to take corrective action quickly.

As a result:
- Potential reduction of up to 111.3 MWh/year in inverter losses
- Increase in inverter efficiency by 2.8% compared to the expected daily yield
- Improved overall plant performance and prevention of accelerated module degradation

Conclusion

Thanks to Delfos' analytical precision, the plant's operation has been optimized, avoiding significant losses and ensuring greater asset reliability and durability. Delfos proved essential for quickly detecting critical problems such as shading, enabling proactive action and guaranteeing a more efficient and sustainable operation.

- 111.3 MWh of energy recovered per year per inverter
- 2.8% increase in daily inverter production
- Reduction in losses avoided before they impacted the plant's revenue

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