Renewable Energy Showcase: Spotlight on Solar!
Renewable energy is critical to meeting North America’s rapidly expanding energy needs. Supported by flexible generation capacity, this balanced approach to powering the grid will help shape clean power system for tomorrow.
Capital Power currently owns and operates 130 MW of solar generation capacity at three utility-scale photovoltaic solar facilities located in North Carolina (Beaufort Solar) and Alberta (Strathmore Solar and Clydesdale Solar).
Working in tandem to maintain grid reliability with flexible generation energy solutions like natural gas, solar generation will play an increasingly key role in producing affordable and clean renewable energy in the supply mix.
How is solar energy produced?
Solar energy is produced by converting sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity through an array of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels made of semiconductor material (usually silicon). Sunlight is composed of tiny particles called photons. When the photons hit the solar panels they excite the electrons in the semiconductor, allowing the electrons to flow. This flow of electrons is what we call electric current. Other critical components include inverters that convert the DC electricity produced by the panels into alternating current (AC), which is sent to a substation for transmission to the grid into homes and businesses.
At our Strathmore and Clydesdale facilities, the PV panels are mounted on a single-axis tracking system that automatically changes the angle of the panels throughout the day as the sun passes from east to west, allowing for the capture of the maximum amount of solar energy. These panels also utilize bifacial PV panel technology, which has solar cells on the front and back of the panels, allowing the panels to collect light reflected off the ground or panels behind them, increasing efficiency and maximizing electricity production.
At Beaufort Solar, we utilize a fixed tilt ground mounting solar system, meaning the PV panels remain stationary facing south rather than moving to track the sun.
The bright future of Agrivoltaics!
We’ve partnered with Whispering Cedars Ranch, hosting an 800+ flock of their finest grazing sheep and a team of kune kune pigs at our Strathmore Solar facility each spring and summer season. This efficient, adorable crew of multi-species grazers helps us sustainably manage the land on site to reduce fire hazards and keep the facility landscape well-maintained.
This mutually beneficial opportunity maximizes the utility of the solar site by offering local farmers additional land for their animals to graze and grow!