In a significant advancement for solar energy, researchers have highlighted the potential for solar power plants in high-altitude regions, particularly in Tajikistan, where mountainous terrain covers 93% of the country. The study, led by Mamadsho Ilolov from the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Tajikistan, emphasizes that solar panels installed at higher elevations can outperform those in valleys, especially during winter months.
One of the key findings of the research is that solar panels at mountain heights benefit from increased efficiency due to several factors. The absence of air pollution at these elevations allows for a longer operational time for solar installations. Additionally, the reflective qualities of snow cover can enhance solar panel performance, capturing more sunlight than panels located in foggy or cloudy valleys. Ilolov notes, “At the heights of the mountains, there is no air pollution and, as a result, a longer operating time of the solar power plant.”
This research opens up commercial opportunities for solar energy developers and investors, particularly in regions with similar geographical characteristics. The study highlights a project by the Chinese company Sun Tech Power Holdings, which plans to construct a 10 MW solar power plant in Tibet at an altitude of 4,000 meters. This initiative underscores the viability of high-altitude solar energy projects and could inspire similar developments in Tajikistan and beyond.
The findings also suggest that while valleys may seem like prime locations for solar energy due to accessibility, they face challenges such as pollution from dust storms, especially during the summer and autumn months. This further reinforces the idea that mountainous regions could be more conducive to solar energy generation in certain climates.
The research was published in the SiliconPV Conference Proceedings, contributing valuable insights into the future of solar energy in mountainous areas. As countries continue to explore renewable energy solutions, the potential for high-altitude solar power plants represents a promising avenue for sustainable energy development.
