Geographic potential of shotcrete photovoltaic racking: Direct and low-concentration cases

Relentless cost declines in solar photovoltaic (PV) modules have radically reduced system costs, but the result is that racking costs become more important. In this study a new open source method using earth and shotcrete-based ground mounts investigated two geographic regions: (1) Boa Vista, Brazil, where PV rows an optimized shallow tilt angle can be close-packed (2) Kingston, Canada, racks make use of low concentration required inter-row spacing. Models are developed for both locations with single, double triple vertical stacked ground-mounted systems. Using these models bills materials energy simulations produced to provide benefit analysis specifically shotcrete racks. The results show utility-scale systems near equator, could reduce by 18–22% from least expensive conventional as much 47% reduction commercial racking. Economics less clear at higher latitudes incorporate low-concentration reflectors they lower than racking, would expected produce 18% electricity per installed Watt. Overall novel concept was found promising, particularly desert regions it soiling losses. indicate need future work fully evaluate potential utility scale.