Figure 2.
The Gemini Roof Cam
captures workers
installing the PV
panels on the roof of
Gemini North.
Figure 3.
PV panels now cover the
entire roof.
Photo Credit: UH88 Camera.
6.4 peak Sun hours a day as opposed to Hilo,
with only 4.6 peak Sun hours a day, resulting
in a 39 percent benefit; second, PV systems
operating on Maunakea at low summit temperatures of ~45º F versus ~80º F at sea level
result in another 10 percent improvement in
performance; finally, PV systems operating
almost 14,000 feet (4200 meters) above sea
level, where the Sun is more intense due to
reduced atmospheric absorption, results in
an additional 10 percent benefit. The approximate energy output of the panels on the telescope is expected to be about 100 kilowatts.
29
GeminiFocus
Gemini Observatory continues to explore
new ways to improve operational efficiency.
“While PV panels require a significant investment”, says Gemini Lead Engineer for the
project Chas Cavedoni, “we predict that the
investment will be recovered in less than
four years”.
The panels are scheduled for connection to
the electrical grid by late October.
Alexis-Ann Acohido is a public relations intern at
Gemini North. She can be reached at:
[email protected]
October 2015