Category Archives: Engineering
Energy Content of Fuels
Energy Content Explained
The energy content of any organic fuel is defined as the fuel’s primary energy. Primary energy is measured given the fuels calorific value or the heat generation from the complete combustion of one unit of fuel under well-defined conditions. The calorific value can be a gross or net number, depending on whether the combustible heat released takes into account the vapor condensation of water. Power production efficiency is typically calculated using Net Calorific Value (NCV) after water vaporization.
Cost Breakdown Structures for Solar PV Projects
Modules, inverters and balance of system costs define the total installed cost of a solar PV system.
The three cost components are very simple in nature. In practice, total cost is defined using a detailed cost breakdown structure. The structure must also be applied consistently across projects and over time. The result can be improved cost modeling and management.
Glare from Solar PV Modules
A common question concerning the safety of photovoltaic (PV) power systems is the impact of reflected sunlight. PV modules have the potential to impact neighboring structures or activities, notably aviation. It is important to know where the reflected light will go and what the intensity of the light will be at any point in time.