THE PROBLEM
The Reduction of Energy Captured Over Winter
In areas with significant snowfall, annual energy capture is typically reduced by about 3–10%, and PV panels may be covered in snow for weeks at a time. For example, annual snow-related losses in Burlington, VT are approximately 8%. This translates to ~$20,000 loss per year per mW for net-metered arrays in Vermont. Snow coverage leads to production losses and increased O&M expense (~$1,000 per mW per snow event).
OUR SOLUTION
SnowShedderTM, a passive system (no actions needed after installation) that improves shedding of snow off PV panels.
Extensive field testing has shown up to 50% recapture of energy and thus increase revenue substantial. For Vermont net metering solar array, that can result in increased revenue of ~$10,000 per MW-ac. The SnowShedders can be used in both new and retrofit applications, and are applicable in utility-scale, C&I, and residential applications.
SnowShedders work to prevent snow being impeded at the gaps between panels and on panel frame edges so that the array can self-clear as quickly as possible. SnowShedders are a simple way to increase the energy production of your PV arrays in the snowbelt, with high rates of return on investment.
SNOWSHEDDER 2021-2022 PRODUCTION DATA
Detailed energy product analysis documented 30% – 50%+ recapture of energy otherwise lost to snow coverage as compared to control panels not equipped with SnowShedders.
ANNUAL ENERGY SAVINGS
SnowShedders have an estimated 4-year payback period once installed.*
Once installed, SnowShedders result in approximately $3,000 a year in energy savings when compared to active clearing.**
* based on 750kW DC array with a 25% annual return.
** based on a 750kW DC array with 3 snow clearing events
LIFETIME ENERGY SAVINGS
- ~$9,500 made back in energy value after the first winter.
- Net profit resulting by the middle of the second winter.
- 20-year return of ~$89,500.
- Resulting in a production increase of 900MWh over its lifetime.
- An increased system value of $0.09/W
Building a greener future
Norwich Technologies develops, commercializes, and deploys forward looking clean energy innovations for our commercial, community, and utility customers. From US Department of Energy R&D funded grants to hundreds of commercial solar and EV charging installations, Norwich Technologies’ experience and services are supporting all communities’ transition to a cleaner robust future. As a certified B Corp, we measure more than just the bottom line or kilowatt hours, we are purpose-driven family of companies creating benefit for all stakeholders.
