Presentation Details
| Performance and Reliability of Passive-Active Snow Removal Technique for Photovoltaic Systems in Cold Climates Harriet Ahu-Darkwah1, Jaewon Oh1, Sagar Bhoite2, Govindasamy Tamizhmani2. 1University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA.22Photovoltaic Reliability Laboratory - Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, USA |
Abstract
Snow accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) modules significantly reduces energy generation and system reliability in cold climates. This study evaluates a low-cost passive-active snow removal technique combining polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape and 100 W heating strips in Houghton, Michigan. Field results demonstrate that the proposed system removed over 90% of accumulated snow, while the reference module remained largely snow-covered for nearly 150 hours. Material durability was assessed using thermal cycling, damp heat, humidity freeze, and ultraviolet tests, with visual inspection, peel testing, and FTIR confirming chemical stability and identifying moisture-induced adhesion degradation. Although daily energy gain was negative due to continuous heater operation, the system significantly improved winter PV performance, highlighting its potential for cold-region applications.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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