The world’s most unlikely solar farms
BBCThe world’s most unlikely solar farms Fischer Knapp Snow obstructing the sunlight can put solar panels out of action, and requires regular clearing in colder months Solar energy has become so accessible that new farms are being switched on in the most unexpected places – including in the depths of the Alaskan winter. “We got out and drove piles and built frames, which was great because we were able to learn a lot, figure out potential design problems and make changes to create the most efficient model possible.” Solar viability is a function of two things: solar resource and electricity prices – Jenn Miller Their pilot project of two rows of 70 kW panels suggested that the farm would work on a larger scale. In months like December, when it’s really dark, we just let the snow build up, as there isn’t enough daylight to warrant snow clearing – Jenn Miller Once installed, the operating costs for solar farms are minimal, another aspect that is attractive to investors and builders. “Solar power can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and can be installed off-grid, on-grid, or via a hybrid system.” Getty Images The cost of producing solar panels as dropped rapidly in the past decades, making it an ever more accessible option While the energy produced by solar farms is fully renewable, there is a carbon cost to installing the farms – there has been some concern over the carbon footprint of solar farms, but both Miller and Raghav say the benefit outweighs carbon cost.
History of this topic
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