Publications

Ganged-PV System Evaluation

Armijo, Kenneth M.; Overacker, Aaron A.; Madden, Dimitri A.; Clair, Jim C.

The following report contains data and data summaries collected for the SkySun LLC elevated Ganged PV arrays. These arrays were fabricated as a series of PV panels in various orientations, suspended by cables, at the National Solar Thermal Test Facility (NSTTF) at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL). Starting in February of 2021, Sandia personnel have collected power and accelerometer data for these arrays to assess design and operational efficacy of varying ganged- PV configurations. The purpose of this power data collection was to see how the various array orientations compare in power collection capability depending on the time of day, year, and the specific daily solar direct normal irradiance (DNI). The power data was collected as a measurement of the power output from the various series strings. The project team measured direct current (DC) voltage and current from the respective arrays. The accelerometer data was collected with the purpose of demonstrating potential destructive mode shapes that could take place with each of the arrays when exposed to high winds. This allowed the team to evaluate whether impacts with respect to specific array orientations using suspended cables is a safe design. All data collection was performed during calendar year 2021.