Can solar power be installed in a snowbound area?

The state plans to set up a one-gigawatt solar power plant in the Spiti Valley, an area that typically sees more than 300 clear and sunny days in a year but remains snowbound for up to a third of the year. Installing solar power plants in snowbound areas offers an important avenue for reducing pollution and mitigating climate change.

What are the benefits of higher altitudes for solar panels?

Overall, in higher altitudes, stronger solar irradiation and lower temperatures pose significant advantages. The clean air in this area means less dust and fog – a big plus for keeping the solar panels cleaner for a more extended period. Dust-free mountain air keeps the panels cleaner for a more extended period.

Can solar power be installed in high-altitude countries?

There are many high-altitude developing countries across the world with solar potential, Armenia and Serbia to name a couple. Yet, despite the clear skies and low temperatures in snowbound, hilly regions that may be conducive to solar photovoltaics, installation in these areas is no easy task.

How do solar panels work in the Swiss Alps?

Even though we associate having solar panels in sunny and hot regions, panels' efficiency drops remarkably in very high temperatures. So, cooler temperatures are ideal for increased efficiency, which is the case for the Swiss Alps. Also, at this altitude, the sun rays fall just at the right angle on the strategically placed panels.

Can solar panels be installed in snow?

The thought of installing solar panels in isolated, snow-bound regions with harsh weather conditions may seem far-fetched. But Himachal Pradesh, a hilly state in northern India where snow and sun abound, is about to break new ground.

What makes high-altitude solar panels successful?

One point that comes out clearly is that, when you embark on the challenge of high-altitude solar panels, the key to success is a holistic approach that accounts for local climatic and topographic variables, while bringing tested engineering solutions to the fore.