Trina monocrystalline silicon array, fixed ground-mount
Monocrystalline panels convert sunlight at a high efficiency, and are often used where space is limited – such as on a large-scale tracking array.
This fixed ground-mount installation of Trina monocrystalline panels has the same configuration as the large-scale tracking arrays. Its performance can be compared to the trackers’ to confirm the gains contributed by the tracking system.
This fixed array is oriented in a position that will maximise its exposure to sunlight through the year. The panels are tilted at 20º from horizontal, close to Alice Springs’ angle of latitude. The array is directed due north.
Monocrystalline panels are manufactured from large silicon crystals sawn into single cells.
Solar Inception delivers complete photovoltaic power plants. They are distributors for Trina Solar, a photovoltaic manufacturing company based in China.
| Electricity produced (annual): | 8.52 MWh* |
|---|---|
| System size: | 5.25 kW |
| Array area: | 38.37 m² |
| Number of panels: | 30 |
| Panel efficiency: | 13.68 % |
| Panel type: | Trina TSM-175DC01 |
| Panel rated output: | 175 W |
| Inverter size, type: | 6 kW, SMA SMC 6000A |
| Array orientation: | True north, at 20º tilt |
| Installation completed: | 8 January 2009 |
*This figure is based on an assumption of 1.622 MWh annually, per kWp of installed solar panels. This may prove to be a conservative estimate for Alice Springs.