The Port Authority of Valencia (PAV) is carrying out studies for the creation of the first large-scale vertical photovoltaic park in Spain.
The PAV is testing the use of solar panels on a strip of wall in the North Dock in order to check the viability and efficiency of the installation on a small scale.
The capacity to generate clean energy will determine the construction of a larger project, which aspires to become the first large vertical photovoltaic park planned in a port on an international level.
SunnerBOX’s IT3, a one-of-a-kind solution created and registered in Valencia, will be utilised for this purpose.
READ: Port of Valencia invites bids for electrical substation
The IT3 is a solar panel matrix system constructed on a mesh made with tie rods and tensors anchored directly on the pier.
This strategy, in addition to utilising existing infrastructure, saves structural costs, speeds up installation, simplifies maintenance, and increases the project’s profitability.
This pilot test is being carried out in collaboration with the UPV’s Centre for Research in Project Management, Innovation, and Sustainability (PRINS).
READ: Port of Valencia set to be powered by solar energy
It is made up of 21,410 W photovoltaic modules, with a total installed power of 8.6 kilowatt peak (KWp). The energy generated and the dynamic behaviour of the structure will be monitored in real time during the test using several types of sensors.
The energy generated by the several segregated arrays will be used to power the sensor system itself.
If the test results are satisfactory after the two-month period, the PAV said it will seek the best ways of finance to implement the dock installation on a broader scale.
