Detection of electromagnetic interference from solar cells

The ability to generate electricity with solar panels has significantly improved in recent years. Prices of solar panels are decreasing, regulations are being adjusted, and both private and public property owners are showing increased interest. The solar energy market is currently experiencing exponential growth, with thousands of new installations every year.

At the same time, a discussion around solar installations as a potential source of electromagnetic disturbances, and EMC problems, has gained momentum. It is about the risk that radio communication is affected or that sensitive electronic equipment malfunctions. Research in this area has so far been a low priority, while studies of equipment on the solar market have pointed to the existence of quality deficiencies in terms of EMC.

Consequently, caution is exercised when it comes to investing in solar power installations due to the absence of clear recommendations on how to prevent EMC issues related to radiated radio frequency disturbances. This has resulted in limitations in expanding solar energy near defence facilities, airports, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure with sensitive electronics.

The work in this project aimed to replace uncertainty with knowledge based on measurements so that solar cell installations can be safely built in more places. We wanted to show how the design of the installation affects the EMC of the finished plant and to disseminate that information to the solar installer industry.

RISE developed a methodology to verify emissions from solar installations and provided a better insight into the extent and nature of the disturbances. In collaboration with Dalarna University, solar plants will then be built and verified with measurements to provide an understanding of how the technical design and choice of equipment affect the plant's total emissions, both radiant and grid-tied.

The knowledge has been condensed into easily accessible information for the industry with clear guidelines for the design of new facilities, approaches for evaluating existing facilities, recommendations regarding safety distances, as well as information for the training of installers as well as for clients for increased knowledge and security in handling EMC-related risks.