#USA #Norwalk #GameChange Solar #Solar Trackers #Hail Mitigation

GameChange Solar's New Approaches to Hail Storm Mitigation

In a bold move to redefine the solar energy landscape, GameChange Solar (GCS) has recently released an updated version of its influential white paper titled "Reliable Hail Mitigation Technical and Economic Optimization for Solar Trackers." This document serves as a comprehensive resource for solar project developers, owners, and insurers, detailing advanced strategies for minimizing hail damage to solar trackers.

Understanding the Hail Challenge

Hail storms present a significant risk to solar energy projects, especially in regions prone to severe weather conditions. GCS's white paper dives into various elements of hail mitigation, covering crucial aspects such as the optimal timing for stowing solar panels during hail, the ideal angles for stowing, and how wind conditions can complicate these decisions. Informed by recent data and research, GCS aims to empower solar asset owners to make better-informed decisions that can protect their investments.

The Wind Direction Study

A notable addition to the updated paper is the analysis conducted by CPP Wind Engineering Consultants, focusing on wind direction during hail occurrences. The study monitored 137 hail events at one site in East Texas and another 48 events in Queensland, Australia. The findings highlighted that a staggering 75% of hail storms are accompanied by winds from both the east and west, rendering traditional assumptions about hail storm dynamics unreliable.

This unexpected revelation emphasizes the need for solar trackers designed to handle wind loads from multiple directions. GCS advocates for solar owners to invest in systems that are equipped to withstand these challenging conditions.

Expert Insights

Scott Van Pelt, Chief Engineer at GameChange Solar, raised concerns about misconceptions that could lead to inadequate preparations for hail storms. He remarked, "Many tracker manufacturers place excessive emphasis on the stow direction during hail events. Our discussions with CPP and numerous insurers have underscored the necessity of a steep tilt angle—in our case, at least 60 degrees—during hail risks. Regular testing of the stow mechanisms is equally crucial to ensure that systems respond appropriately when hail is forecasted."

The Important Takeaways

GameChange Solar's white paper is more than just a document; it is a call to action for the solar industry to rethink how it approaches hail mitigation. Investments in advanced tracker designs and stringent testing protocols are essential to ensure the sustainability of solar energy projects in hail-prone regions.

Those interested in accessing the updated white paper can request a copy through GameChange Solar's official website. The research was also a focal point during the recent Solar Insights event that took place in New York City last month, gathering key stakeholders from across the solar industry to exchange knowledge and experiences.

About GameChange Solar

GameChange Solar is renowned for its outstanding contributions to utility-scale solar projects through innovative single-axis tracker solutions. With over 53 GW of successful installations, GCS is one of the top global players, focusing on engineering excellence, optimal design, and cost-effective manufacturing practices. Their trackers offer enhanced performance by enabling solar panels to follow the movement of the sun while also shielding them from adverse weather conditions, such as hail.

For more details about their solutions and the latest research findings, visit GameChange Solar's website.