SolarPodTM Field Performance Test Results
Results from the field test show that the SolarPod’sTM energy production in an average year in Minneapolis / St. Paul (MSP) to exceed 1200 kWh/kW.
The Field tests were conducted for a full year. Field tests are more important than the Standard Test Conditions (STC) that is reported by manufacturers. In field testing actual energy harnessed by the Sun with actual weather conditions are considered. Unlike laboratory testing where ideal conditions for solar insolation are present, in field testing actual conditions determine energy production. Conditions of cloud cover, snow accumulation, rainfall, dust & debris, Sun position, and day hours determine the actual energy harnessed. We wanted a full year of data as Minnesota and Wisconsin have long winters and Sun position changes for summer and winter. Although the last winter was mild and late summer was very dry, the SolarPodTM produced over 1298 kWh/kW for the last year.
Results from the field test show that the SolarPod’sTM energy production in an average year in Minneapolis / St. Paul (MSP) to exceed 1200 kWh/kW. This energy production result is based on our understanding of an average year in MSP to be 45in of snow and 31in of rain. In 2011/2012 winter, MSP received 22.3in of snow and 26 in of rain. Further, a 95% or greater Sun exposure is expected for the location.
In order to help our customers in the world & USA, we are attempting to create a table of P50 annual estimated energy (kWh) production per SolarPodTM. This annual median (P50) energy estimate is based on field tests in MN and WI, and extrapolating using solar insolation maps. We will collect data from our many installations in the world and the United States and create a more accurate energy production estimate per SolarPodTM with time, as it is a vital component of the SolarPodTM performance reliability.
Note: P50 is the median energy production estimate which means that over 50% of the years higher than the P50 estimate can be estimated.
Based on the above results, the SolarPodTM performance is charted along with quality HIT Sanyo and SunPower installations in the State of Minnesota. An exhaustive and extensive study** was conducted of chosen installations for over a year of various products available in the State of Minnesota. Products yielding considerably lower energy performance have been left out of the chart below.
With the best energy performance in the market and the highest value, SolarPodTM is gaining significant momentum throughout the world.
Note: Each system had a field study in Minnesota.
Our next generation SolarPodTM is slated to yield higher performance with higher power and efficiencies.
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