Flat tile solar panel

Abstract

To reduce the cost of photovoltaic arrays by eliminating the costs associated with providing and installing elevated supports for the solar panels, and provides a flat orientation that allows for cleaning by automated horizontal surface cleaning equipment.SOLUTION: A ground-mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array having a plurality of solar panels is supported on the ground at an edges of the solar panels. The panels are interconnected by at least one series-connected string extending along at least two rows of adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels, thereby, the string has a distance between end points of series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8C

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications

[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 16 / 682,503 and 16 / 682,517, both filed November 13, 2019, and both claim priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 903,369, filed September 20, 2019 (assigned to the assignee thereof and filed by the inventors thereof, and incorporated herein by reference).

[0002]

[0002] Field of technology

[0003]

[0003] The disclosed technology relates to mounting solar panels using terrestrial or ground-based mounting systems. [Background technology]

[0004]

[0004] Background Technology

[0005]

[0005] A solar panel, also called a solar module, is an assembly of multiple photovoltaic (PV) cells hard-wired together to form a single unit, typically as a rigid piece, although flexible solar panels can also be provided. A collection of solar panels is assembled into an array. Panels are also wired together to form strings, which are connected to a power receiving unit, typically an inverter or other controller, that provides the initial power output. One or more solar arrays form a solar plant.

[0006]

[0006] Silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) modules, commonly referred to as crystalline silicon (C_Si), are typically packaged, interconnected assemblies of 6x12 photovoltaic solar cells. For utility-scale installations, solar panels comprise multiple solar cells hard-wired into a single unit, the module or panel. In typical applications, panels are made of component solar cells. In the 6x12 example above, this is 72 solar cells, although this can vary significantly depending on design choices. The individual solar cells can be fabricated in any convenient manner and, if desired, can be fabricated separately and attached to the panel substrate, or they can be fabricated directly on the substrate. There are other types of PV module technologies in use today, such as "thin film" and variations of silicon-based technologies. Within thin film, at least two module technologies stand out. The first is CdTe (cadmium telluride), also known as CadTel. The second is known as CIGS or CIS (Copper, Indium, Gallium, Selenium, or simply Copper, Indium, Selenium).

[0007]

[0007] Several panels are connected together to form an array in a procedure called "stringing." The number of panels making up a string can vary, but in a typical application this can be between 17 and 29 panels, depending on both environmental conditions and the voltage rating (string voltage) of the modules selected. The size of the array is limited by power transfer limitations, including maximum voltage and current limits in the array. Panels in an array are connected in one or more series strings and one or more parallel strings. A series string is a set of panels connected in series with each other. This increases the power output of the string without a corresponding increase in current, but results in an increase in voltage. Because of the need to limit the maximum voltage output of a string as well as the maximum current output of an array, arrays are often divided into multiple strings of a common voltage while summing the currents.

[0008] The number of panels in a string is given as a non-limiting example because it correlates to design considerations related to panel voltage and related circuit parameters of the string and array.

[0009] The array is then connected to a power conversion and transmission circuit. This is accomplished by interconnecting the solar cells within the panels, followed by connections between the panels in the array, followed by connection to an inverter, either directly or via a wiring harness. The inverter is the first circuit that provides the output of the solar plant. The inverter is connected to a further output circuit that is connected to a transmission circuit. While details may vary, for example, for systems with local power connections, in most solar power systems the first connection for power conversion, distribution, and transmission is the inverter. In other words, the strings are connected to the inverter, either directly or via a wiring harness.

[0010] The disclosed technology seeks to reduce the leveled cost of energy (LCOE) produced by modern utility-scale solar PV power plants. Utility-scale solar PV power plants are unique from many other forms of solar-powered electricity generation. Due to the nature of the size, energy costs, safety, regulatory, and operational requirements of utility-scale electricity production, the components, hardware, design, construction means and methods, operation, and maintenance all have both specific and unique characteristics that give them the designation "utility-scale."

[0011]

[0011] From the inception of PV technology, it has been an inherently expensive solution for producing electricity. The PV cells contained within the heart of a solar module have been both expensive to manufacture and relatively inefficient. Over the past 40 years, significant advances have been made on all fronts in PV cell and module manufacturing and technology, which have reduced their prices to a point that has made the cost of solar-based energy generation comparable to or even lower than all other forms of power generation in a given geographic area.

[0012]

[0012] When the technology was in its infancy, significant developments were directed toward handling and positioning PV cells and their large assemblies called modules. This development focused on what is now commonly referred to as "two-axis tracking." This concept seeks to maintain a PV cell in a position perpendicular to the incidence of the sun's rays at all times throughout the day and year. This method sought to extract maximum energy from the cell, with the goal of offsetting its very high cost.

[0013]

[0013] As the price and efficiency of cells, and by extension modules, improved, the cost of dual-axis trackers became prohibitive compared to the cost of panels. This led to the development of two complementary technologies now known as "fixed tilt" racking and "single-axis tracking." Further developments included the adaptation of these new systems to rooftop mounting on residential, office, commercial, and industrial buildings. Fixed tilt and single-axis tracking methods are often classified as "ground-mounted" technologies, which separates them from "roof-mounted" technologies. The ground-mounted criterion simply means that they are not associated with a building, rather than being supported by a free-standing structure using its own foundation.

[0014]

[0014] Safety and regulatory requirements generally apply to both remote solar PV power plants and rooftop systems, but as will be explained, solar PV power plants that are not in protected areas This is different for utility-scale solar photovoltaic power plants than for photovoltaic installations. Utility-scale PV power plants typically operate at 1500 volts DC due to the modules. These modules are not permitted for non-utility-scale applications due to regulatory requirements for voltage (EMF). Specifically, exceeding 600 volts on the DC side places the system in a category that requires alternative safety and operational requirements on the system. Examples include requiring a fixed fence surrounding the power plant, which does not allow the public open access to higher voltages, as well as specific training and certification requirements for individuals who will access a utility-scale solar plant.

[0015]

[0015] Utility-scale solar voltaic power plants are distinguished by their typical operation at EMFs above 600 volts. This is established by several different code requirements, including the (U.S.) National Electrical Code (NEC), the International Electrotechnical Commission [3] (IEC, or International Electrotechnical Commission), and its subsidiaries. Electrical connections between enclosures above 600 volts must be secured within an enclosure, such as a room or fenced area restricted to trained or qualified personnel. For purposes of this disclosure, such enclosures will be described as "protected areas." Non-limiting examples of such "protected areas" are referenced in NEC Article 110, Part C, which provides general requirements for applications above 600 volts. Variations in voltage may exist because arrays can be designed to safely operate at higher voltages in unprotected environments.

[0016]

[0016] These are just two examples of something that distinguishes utility-scale solar PV power plants from other approaches such as "solar roads" and "personal solar power devices."

[0017]

[0017] As a reference to the ongoing push to reduce the price of energy from power plants, a utility-scale solar plant can produce electricity for $0.040 / kWh in the southwestern United States at the beginning of 2019. For the same technology in PV cells but with different voltages, a rooftop-mounted system would average roughly $0.12 / kWhr. This is a three-fold difference in energy costs using essentially the same PV cell technology. The reasons for this dramatic price decline go far beyond cells and modules and, in many cases, are only allowed to occur within utility-scale plants.

[0018]

[0018] When deployed, for example in large solar farms, solar panels are typically mounted in racks that orient the panels toward the sun. In the case of gimbaled racks, called trackers, the panels are pivoted to face the sun throughout the day, and some systems also take into account the solar elevation angle, or else the effect of the solar analemma. The advantage of fixed racking of solar panels and the advantage of tracking, of course, is that both increase efficiency when establishing perpendicular alignment with the sun, and also make more efficient use of the physical area of ​​the solar cells.

[0019]

[0019] Fixed inclined rack systems are typically positioned at approximately 25 degrees from horizontal, the angle depending on various factors including the latitude of the facility site. If the panels were mounted at a 25 degree normal to the sunlight, they would convert approximately the same percentage of the incident light, but the amount of incident light would be the cosine of the angle from normal. Taking the 25 degree example, the incident light would be approximately 90% of the normal alignment, with some additional loss from the fact that the solar cell alignment is at an angle to the sunlight incidence. The tracker may generate 8% to 11% more energy than what can be expected from a fixed rack mounted panel, depending on the terrain and array configuration. When the cost of solar panels is relatively high, this loss from misalignment is significant, but as the cost of solar panels decreases, the costs resulting from inefficient alignment decrease to such an extent that it can be more cost-effective to increase the area of ​​the panels and avoid racking and tracking costs.

[0020]

[0020] Once removed from the ground, there is no need to withstand damage caused by the ground. More generally, the properties of solar cells are such that they are generally waterproof and fairly durable. As an example, it is common for solar modules to be tested and certified to withstand hail up to 25 mm (1 inch) falling at 23 m / s. While solar panels can be cleaned as a practical matter, racked solar panels are not cleaned because the expense is not justified by the expected energy loss resulting from dust accumulation. As an example, in Southern California, the estimated energy loss from dust is 6% / year, but if the panels were cleaned, the loss would be closer to 1% / year.

[0021] One consideration when mounting solar panels on a rack or tracker is the albedo effect resulting from sunlight reflecting off the ground, resulting in backside heating. This problem has been addressed in various ways, the most common of which is to coat the backside of the solar panel with a white coating. A common coating for this purpose is white-pigmented Tedlar® PVF, sold by EI duPont de Neumours of Wilmington, Delaware. Tedlar® provides protection, but when white-pigmented, it reflects much of the light from the backside. A drawback is that, as a white coating, white-pigmented Tedlar® tends to retard heat dissipation through the backside.

[0022]

[0022] The voltage output of a solar array is constrained. Conceptually, a solar array, or for that matter, a portion of an entire solar plant, can be series-wired to provide a power transmission voltage. In addition to the need for redundancy, segmenting the solar plant for maintenance, and avoiding arcing to ground, solar panels are voltage-limited by their construction due to the potential for arcing through glass and lining. In a typical configuration, the array output voltage (series voltage of panels in a given string) is 1500 volts, with lower voltages such as 600 volts being used for residential applications and other applications where untrained personnel are likely to be present. Therefore, solar arrays are traditionally voltage-limited. For voltage-limiting purposes, panels are arranged in groups called strings, which are connected to the inverter via harnesses. Due to the physical arrangement of the strings on the tracker or rack, it has been necessary to provide a harness arrangement. In a typical tracker system, three sets of strings are used in a single tracker assembly. Harnesses of various configurations are used to connect the strings to the inverter, although this number can vary depending on rack length and other considerations.

[0023]

[0023] Harnesses themselves are a significant cost factor. Because the system is voltage limited, the total power output of the plant translates into substantial wiring costs for the harness system. Similarly, power losses through the wire harness translate into additional costs. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a configuration that reduces the cable runs of the connecting harness.

[0024] One wire harness configuration used in racked modules is called "skip stringing" or "leap frog wiring." In skip stringing, the wire harness bypasses alternate panels, with the purpose of providing efficient wiring by limiting the cables to approximately the distance between alternate modules. The ability to achieve connections that extend over longer distances without cable buildup allows positive and negative connections to be located closer to the inverter, reducing the amount of harness conductors required to connect to the inverter. Because panels are connected in an alternating fashion, alternate panels within the same physical row can provide a return circuit, thereby reducing the distance between the end panel and the inverter. Ideally, to connect a string to an inverter, one positive or negative pole connection is only one panel away from the other pole connection to the inverter. This reduces the length of the "home run wire," but requires each link to skip alternate panels in order to return along the same row.

[0025]

[0025] While it would be possible to string panels across more than one row, doing so would result in shortening the rows, which would increase costs. Skip-stringing wiring is used because by skipping adjacent panels, the length of a given string is maintained while at the same time providing a return connection along the same row. This effectively doubles the length of the string over what would exist if the string were stretched across two rows.

[0026]

[0026] This system of stringing accommodates the polarity of the panels; however, this technique still requires a wire harness for connection. In addition, these techniques still require an additional harness to connect between each end of the string and the inverter. Stringing panels across rows becomes impractical because adjacent rows of panels are separated by a space corresponding to the projection of the racked panels.

[0027] Another challenge involving racked or tracker-mounted solar panels is the effects of wind. High wind forces, reaching hurricane-force strength in certain terrains, often prevent or significantly increase the cost of constructing solar power plants in those areas. Additionally, modules themselves are easily damaged by high winds, requiring significant expenditures for repair and replacement. In addition to the obvious damage resulting from direct wind forces, the negative effects of cyclic loading can result in "micro-cracks." This "micro-crack" damage occurs over time, causing an accelerated degradation rate of module cells. This micro-cracks poses a serious challenge to the industry, affecting long-term module warranties.

[0028] Another challenge involving racked or tracker-mounted solar panels is the effects of environmental corrosion due to corrosive soils and corrosive air, such as salt aerosols. For example, a typical power plant uses driven steel piles, which are sized as small as possible to offset the effects of wind, which places loads on the entire structure. The pile design must account for corrosion of the steel and other materials and still be able to last for 25 years. The more corrosive the soil, the thicker the posts will be designed and used as sacrificial steel to ensure a 25-year lifespan. Similar challenges exist for terrain near oceans, where salt aerosol environments exist. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0029]

[0029] A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array is comprised of a plurality of solar panels, the solar panels including means for supporting the solar panels at their edges to the ground, and means for interconnecting the solar panels to provide connections for at least one series-connected string, the at least one series-connected string extending along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a length smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string. The distance between the end points of the series connections is [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1]

[0030] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket used for attachment to a solar panel. [Figure 2]

[0031] FIG. 1 shows a corner bracket 101 attached to a solar panel. [Figure 3A]

[0032] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing solar panels connected using individual corner brackets and hold-down clamps, showing the hold-down clamps. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing solar panels connected using individual corner brackets and hold-down clamps, showing the clamps engaging the corner brackets. [Figure 3C] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing solar panels connected using individual corner brackets and hold-down clamps, showing the clamps anchored. [Figure 3D] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing solar panels connected using individual corner brackets and hold-down clamps, in top view. [Figure 4]

[0033] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp arrangement structure of FIGS. [Figure 5A]

[0034] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a corner bracket where horizontal support is used for fixing a panel, and shows the configuration of a clamp. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration where horizontal support is used to secure the panel, where the bracket extends in a straight line to connect two modules. [Figure 6A]

[0035] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram showing a solar panel with its edge frame resting on the ground, and shows the arrangement of furrows. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing a solar panel resting with its edge frame on the ground, illustrating end stops or curved members positioned at the edges of the array. [Figure 7A]

[0036] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration in which a single disc supports four panels at the corners of the panels; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the corner bracket supporting four panels, with the panels cut away. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration in which a single disc supports four panels at the corners of the panels, and shows the arrangement of the corner brackets. [Figure 7C] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a corner bracket configuration in which a single disk supports four panels at the corners of the panels, showing the bottom support. [Figure 7D] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration in which a single disc supports four panels at the corners of the panels, and a cross-sectional view of the corner bracket with a cinch pin. [Figure 7E] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration in which a single disk supports four panels at the corners of the panels, showing the corner brackets and cinch pins gripping the anchor cables. [Figure 7F] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket configuration in which a single disc supports four panels at the corners of the panels; and FIG. 11 shows a corner bracket in which cinch pins secure the panels. [Figure 8A]

[0037] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a spring clip arrangement used to link panels with minimal gaps between the panels, with the spring clips shown in profile. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a spring clip arrangement used to link panels with minimal gaps between the panels, showing the spring clips in an elevational view. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the spring clip arrangement used to link panels with minimal gaps between the panels, showing a spring clip engaging one solar panel. [Figure 9A]

[0038] FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing the spring clip of FIGS. 8A-8C gripping a panel, illustrating two adjacent panels held by the spring clip. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing the spring clip of FIGS. 8A-8C gripping a panel, illustrating the gripping arrangement of the spring clip. [Figure 10A]

[0039] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing the wiring connection layout of adjacent solar panels. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing the wiring connection layout of adjacent solar panels. [Figure 11]

[0040] FIG. 1 is a graph showing sample output for a single sunny day of operation of a solar power plant, where the horizontal axis represents time, the left vertical axis represents available sunlight, or “solar radiation,” and the right vertical axis represents the power output of the power plant. [Figure 12A]

[0041] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a solar array layout for a commercial solar power plant, illustrating a partial string array of three strings of panels arranged in six columns. [Figure 12B]FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram showing the layout of a solar array for a commercial solar power plant, expanding on FIG. 12A and showing a string array including 18 strings, with the string inverter depicted in the center. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a schematic diagram showing the layout of a solar array for a commercial solar power plant, further expanding on FIG. 12B and showing six-string arrays further co-located with each other. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D is a schematic diagram showing the layout of a solar array for a commercial solar power plant, further expanding on FIG. 12C and showing the complete solar array. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031]

[0042] big picture

[0032]

[0043] The disclosed technology provides techniques for generating electricity using either commercially available utility-scale solar PV (e.g., CSi, CdTe, CIGS, CIS) modules, or new and novel adaptations of commercially available utility-scale solar PV modules, or new module technologies, several of which are mounted in a manner such that they are both in direct contact with the earth's surface and parallel to the earth's surface. This establishes the earth orientation of the solar PV modules as distinct from solar orientation, although soil contouring and other mounting considerations will take into account the sun's angle.

[0033]

[0044] The modules are arranged in a grid pattern, both edge-to-edge and edge-to-edge, like tiles on a house floor. The "utility-scale" nature of the modules limits the application of the system to voltages above 600 volts DC, ensuring that the system is located "behind the fence," thereby restricting access to trained professionals. Variations in threshold voltages may exist because it is possible to design arrays that can safely operate at higher voltages in unprotected environments; a non-limiting example is an 800-volt array for unprotected areas. The method of mounting the modules to each other or to the ground is not limited by this application. This module arrangement substantially reduces wind loading effects on the modules. The module arrangement is such that it allows for, but does not preclude, both electrical series and parallel connection, eliminating the need for discrete wiring harnesses and harness support means used by traditional utility-scale solar plant PV power plant systems. This module configuration provides significant advantages over the use of commercially available string / microinverters, but does not preclude the use of industry-standard central inverters or alternative power conversion and transmission technologies.

[0034]

[0045] This modular arrangement, in conjunction with the use of active electrical protection devices such as ground fault interrupters and arc fault interrupters, completely eliminates the need for and subsequent use of bonding modules to electrical grounds and structures for personal protection purposes per code compliance. In contrast, these devices, when used in conjunction with conductive module support structures, do not provide the level of protection required for code compliance, thus necessitating the use of module bonding and grounding.

[0035]

[0046] This modular arrangement completely eliminates the need for and subsequent use of steel and steel structures in the power plant, thereby reducing and / or eliminating the natural weathering effects of corrosion, while increasing the life expectancy of the power plant from the minimum required of 25 years to over 40 years. This system does not preclude the use of steel, coated or otherwise, for site-specific applications.

[0036]

[0047] The module layout allows for both commercially available and novel techniques for cleaning the modules and / or removing dust from the module surfaces, increasing the effective energy production rate of the modules.

[0037]

[0048] The module arrangement and disclosed technology significantly reduces the negative impact of high wind forces on the modules. These wind forces, which can reach hurricane-force strength in some terrains, often prevent or significantly increase the cost of constructing solar power plants in those areas. In addition, the modules themselves are easily damaged by high winds, requiring significant expenditures for repair and replacement. By moving the modules away from direct wind forces, "micro-cracking," a negative effect of cyclic loading, is effectively eliminated.

[0038]

[0049] The disclosed technology enables both commercially available and new or novel methods for module cooling from the backside of the module surface, including evaporative cooling, alternating high-emissivity coatings, the addition of "air vents" to the edges of the module frame, and the addition of various enhanced heat transfer materials and / or methods, thereby increasing the effective energy production rate of the module. Positioning the module above ground prevents indirect sunlight and heat from the sun-exposed ground from heating the backside of the module. As a result, the ground below the module becomes an additional heat sink, rather than a source of additional heat. To further exploit this, the module can be coated on the backside with a dark or heat-transfer coating to promote radiative heat transfer to the ground or air space below the module.

[0039]

[0050] The disclosed technology increases the power density per acre of land. The amount of acres used per unit of power production is reduced by over 50% from traditional utility-scale solar PV power plants.

[0040]

[0051] The disclosed technology enables PV arrays to follow the existing contours of the land, thereby significantly reducing and even eliminating the need for land preparation such as heavy grading, plowing, tilling, raking, and filling, as is typically required for utility-scale solar PV power plants.

[0041]

[0052] The disclosed technology inherently results in an effective reduction in annual module performance yield as measured in kWhrs / kWp compared to traditional solar PV power plant systems that are not oriented toward the sun, such as trackers and racks. Although energy performance is significantly reduced, the reduction in electrical losses due to wiring, energy losses due to module cleaning, cost materials and construction, construction schedules and risks results in an overall reduction in cost of produced energy (LCOE) of over 10% over current technology. bring about.

[0042]

[0053] The disclosed technology provides a system for solar PV modules mounted directly to the ground. In one non-limiting configuration, a bracket assembly utilizes the module frame as a structural support system by fastening the four corners of the solar PV module frame directly to the ground without leaving an air gap between the ground, the frame corners, and the bracket assembly. Ground mounting without an air gap reduces wind loads and high uplift, eliminates panel-to-panel shading with zero or minimal row spacing requirements, and increases ground coverage. This ground-mounted PV system orients the PV panels parallel to the existing terrain, allowing the solar panel array to be positioned at any azimuth angle.

[0043]

[0054] Solar panels, sometimes called solar modules, are configured as tiles suitable for direct installation on the ground and are configured to take advantage of the cooling and heat dissipation effects of the ground. In deploying the panels, mounting brackets can be used. The panels snap into or are otherwise secured to the mounting brackets, holding the solar array at or near the ground. Ground deployment allows for a lower cost configuration in that it avoids the requirement to rack the panels, and avoids shading and the consequent need for spacing between rows.

[0044]

[0055] Because the panels are not mounted to racks, the requirements for wind resistance are significantly reduced. This also reduces the need for anchoring to the panels because there are no racks to mount to, and there is substantially less uplift in wind conditions because the panels are on the ground.

[0045]

[0056] Installation can use mounting brackets that connect adjacent panels together. While the brackets can be anchored to the ground, the anchoring requirements, meaning anchoring force, are greatly reduced because the panels are not supported above the ground in wind at an angle to the horizontal. Instead, the panels rest substantially flat on or near the ground.

[0046]

[0057] The brackets secure the panels to one another and maintain a fixed positioning of the panels to stabilize them in the desired position. The anchorage stakes increase this stability but only need to secure the panels against the forces they would experience when laid flat on the ground, which are substantially lower than the forces they would experience in a rack-mounted or tracker-mounted configuration.

[0047]

[0058] The lack of shading is a partial effect of non-tilted panels, which results in reduced power conversion compared to panels oriented towards the sun, but a flat arrangement can be cost-effective if the total cost of the unracked array compares favorably with the power loss from a flat arrangement.

[0048]

[0059] The lack of shadowing between adjacent rows of panels plays into this economic balance. Shadowing is absent because it is created by racking, and more specifically, from the angular positioning of the racked panels. Because racking is not used, shadowing is absent, allowing for a configuration that closes the gaps between consecutive rows. The elimination of gaps establishes a two-dimensional interconnected array, meaning that closely adjacent panels extend in the direction relative to the rows as well as across consecutive rows because consecutive rows are also adjacently positioned. In other words, the gaps between consecutive panels from row to row closely approximate the gaps between consecutive panels along the row.

[0049]

[0060] This adjacent positioning allows wiring connections or harnesses to utilize adjacent relationships across two or more rows, thereby reducing the need for harness connections. In certain configurations, "home run" harness connections, commonly referred to as "whips," are significantly reduced. This is because adjacent rows can be connected without "skip stringing" or "leap frog wiring." In an alternative arrangement, successive connections can be made using the "next" panel in the adjacent row, thereby reducing the length of the connections required for "skip stringing" or "leap frog wiring."

[0050]

[0061] The elimination of racking provides an additional benefit when it comes to harnesses. Because racks are not present, the need to extend the length of the rack is reduced relative to the need to limit the voltage of the string, eliminating the cost of the rack and, in the case of trackers, the cost of the tracker drive mechanism. This in turn allows strings to be terminated at both ends of the string close to the inverter. In this regard, it is advantageous to terminate multiple strings close together, thus allowing inverters to be positioned near the end terminations of the strings.

[0051]

[0062] Mounting System

[0052]

[0063] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a corner bracket 101 used for mounting to a solar panel. Shown are a flat body 111, an inner panel mounting flange 112, an outer panel mounting flange 113, and a link flange 114. The inner and outer mounting flanges 112, 113 are configured for male-female mating with the outer frame of a solar panel (201, Figure 2). The outer panel mounting flange 113 is in an intermediate position because the link flange 114 is intended for mounting outside of the outer mounting flange 113.

[0053]

[0064] Also shown in Figure 1 is frame grip 122, which is shown as an angled or wedge portion of inner mounting flange 112. Note that the particular configuration of frame grip 122 will depend on the physical configuration of the solar panel frame with which corner bracket 101 will mate.

[0054]

[0065] FIG. 2 shows a corner bracket 101 attached to a solar panel 201 .

[0055]

[0066] 3A-3D are schematic diagrams showing solar panels 201 connected using individual corner brackets 101 and hold-down clamps 301. The hold-down clamps 301 are used to link the corner brackets 101, with the clamp flanges 314 of the clamps 301 engaging the link flanges 114 of the brackets 101. The clamp flanges 314 can also fit closely against the outer mounting flanges 113 for added stability, depending on design preference. Anchoring bolts or pins 321 (FIG. 3C) are also shown and are used to secure the hold-down clamps 301 to the ground or other supporting surface. The anchoring bolts or pins 321 are provided as a non-limiting example, as any suitable anchoring mechanism can be used, to which the provided corner brackets 101, hold-down clamps 301, or other components can be secured.

[0056]

[0067] A cross section of the arrangement is shown in Figure 4. Adjacent corner brackets 101, 101 are shown abutting in the arrangement shown, and although the corner brackets 101, and therefore the panel 201, have lateral play, the primary function of the corner brackets 101 and hold-down clamps 301 is to hold the panel 201 in place on the ground (vertical positioning), and lateral movement is essentially limited. Position tolerances will not affect the assembly, as long as the connecting cables or "strings" can withstand the implied variations. Other physical variations can be employed as long as the clamping and hold-down functions are achieved.

[0057]

[0068] Figures 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams showing corner bracket configurations where horizontal support is used to secure the panels. Figure 5A shows a clamp 501 configuration where upper and lower corner flanges 511, 512 are used. Figure 5B shows a configuration where bracket 531 extends in a straight line to connect two modules 201. Using interlocking links, opposing brackets 501-501 can be locked together and secured by the weight of the panels 201, with or without the use of anchoring bolts or pins 321 (Figure 3C) or other suitable anchoring devices.

[0058]

[0069] In addition to simpler installation, a flat installation system facilitates some maintenance operations. By way of non-limiting example, cleaning equipment can operate across the top of the panels, as will be described.

[0059]

[0070] Ridge groove installation

[0060]

[0071] Ground-oriented mounting facilitates placing the panel directly on the ground without the use of corner brackets or other external supports. In the case of a framed solar panel, the frame can rest on the ground, which in turn provides mechanical support for the panel. Figures 6A and 6B are schematic diagrams showing a solar panel 601 with its edge frame 611 resting on the ground.

[0061]

[0072] Referring to FIG. 6A , the ground is prepared to the desired contours for the panels 601 by generally leveling the ground. A groove 621 is excavated by mechanical means, and the panels 601 are placed on the ground with their edge frames 611 resting against the sides of the groove 621. The groove 621 helps positionally stabilize the panels 601 and also provides mechanical support for the panels 601. While the panels 601 could rest directly on the ground at portions of the panels 601 other than the edge frames 611, the support provided by the frames 611 reduces the mechanical forces applied to the active portions of the panels 601 and leaves additional locations for electrical connections. Thus, the groove 621 is formed as a groove, depression, or channel excavated into the ground to receive the edge frames 611.

[0062]

[0073] Although smoothing and prior ground preparation are described, in some situations it is possible to avoid some of the grading and contouring steps. Some ground conditions allow for direct placement of the edge frame 611, and it is also possible for the edge frame 611 to secure the panel 601 to the ground without specially prepared grooves. Smoothing facilitates orienting the panel substantially parallel to the ground.

[0063]

[0074] FIG. 6B shows end stops or curved members 635 positioned at the edges of the array. The curves 635 can be made of any convenient, low-cost material and serve to slow movement of the panels along the edges of the array. Because adjacent panels in the array abut or are otherwise in close proximity to one another, the only place for lateral movement will be along the edges of the array, which are impeded by the curves 635. The curves 635 also direct surface water over the top of the panels 601, reducing the potential for soil breakouts and heaving of the panels 601 caused by surface water. Additionally, causing surface water to flow over the tops of the panels 601 has several advantages when it comes to keeping the panels 601 clean. These advantages are also beneficial in facilities where corner brackets or other brackets are used to support solar panels.

[0064]

[0075] The depiction in Figure 6B shows water flow on the upslope side of the array, where water may have sufficient velocity to flow upward over the top, as indicated by the arrows. Water pooling in curve 635 could flow laterally, parallel to curve 635, or seep into the ground.

[0065]

[0076] The furrow 621 is provided as a non-limiting example. In many facilities, it is possible to support the panel 601 or edge frame 611 directly on the ground without excavating a furrow. In some soil conditions, the edge frame 611 will sink into the soil, while in other conditions, the edge frame 611 will remain substantially on the upper surface of the ground. It is further anticipated that the panel 601 will rest against the ground without the use of the edge frame 611, either because the edge frame 611 is allowed to sink below the level at which the panel will rest on the ground, or in cases in which the panel is constructed without the edge frame.

[0066]

[0077] Alternative Mounting Systems

[0067]

[0078] 7A-7F are schematic diagrams showing corner bracket configurations, where a single disk supports four panels at the panel corners. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a corner bracket supporting four panels, with the panels cut away. FIG. 7B shows the corner bracket arrangement. FIG. 7C shows the bottom support. FIG. 7D shows a cross section of a corner bracket with a cinch pin. FIG. 7E shows the corner bracket and cinch pin gripping the anchor cable. FIG. 7F shows the corner bracket with the cinch pin securing the panel.

[0068]

[0079] 7A-7F allow for simple installation and further facilitate use of the anchor cable. The anchor cable can be any convenient anchorage system, such as the cable anchorage system manufactured by American Earth Anchors of Franklin, Massachusetts (USA), one variation being the Model 3ST60QV anchorage system, which uses a swivel spade attached to a wire rope. The wire rope is swaged or cinched with a swage fitting, such as the American Earth Anchors Quickvice QV18 swage fitting (Quickvice is a trademark of American Earth Anchors). The anchorage system sold by American Earth Anchors is provided as a non-limiting example because a wide variety of convenient anchorage systems are available.

[0069]

[0080] Advantageously, because the panels rest on the ground, they are generally not subjected to sufficient upward forces to lift them upward, and therefore, the soil anchorage system only needs to provide intermittent anchorage support, for example, when exposed to weather events that result in high winds.

[0070]

[0081] 8A-8C are schematic diagrams illustrating the configuration of a spring clip arrangement used to link panels with minimal gaps between them using spring clips 801. FIG. 8A shows spring clip 801 in profile. FIG. 8B shows spring clip 801 in elevation. FIG. 8C shows spring clip 801 engaging one solar panel. Spring clip 801 is constructed from a flat sheet 811 that is folded to include an outer frame support 813 (for the outer frame side of the solar panel) with a raised retaining lip 814 and two inner frame supports 817 (for the inner frame edges of the solar panel) with raised retaining lips 818. As can be seen in FIG. 8C, a solar panel 201 is held with its outer frame resting against outer frame support 813 and held down by retaining lips 814. The corresponding inner frame support 817 is hidden from view in FIG. 8C. Stake holes 823 (FIGS. 8B and 8C) facilitate anchoring spring clip 810 in the ground, for example, using anchor stakes or alternative anchoring systems such as the cable anchoring system manufactured by American Earth Anchors and mentioned above.

[0071]

[0082] 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams showing the spring clip of FIGS. 8A-8C gripping a panel. FIG. 9A shows two adjacent panels 201 held by spring clip 801. FIG. 9B shows the gripping arrangement of spring clip 801. As can be seen from FIG. 9A, the arrangement is such that adjacent solar panels 201-201 fit closely together, reducing gaps between adjacent solar panels and the tendency of solar panels 201 to fling up when exposed to high winds.

[0072]

[0083] To install the solar panel 201 into the spring clip, the panel is positioned in place and downward pressure is applied to cause the panel 201 to snap into place.

[0073]

[0084] Rear cooling

[0074]

[0085] An additional benefit of mounting modules on or just above ground is that cooling from the rear of the module surface is easily achieved. Cooling techniques can include, but are not limited to, evaporative cooling, alternative high-emissivity coatings, the addition of "air vents" to the edges of the module frame, and the addition of various enhanced heat transfer materials and / or methods. Increasing cooling by lowering operating temperatures increases the effective energy production rate of the module. Positioning the modules above ground prevents indirect sunlight and heat from the sun-exposed ground from heating the rear of the module. As a result, the ground below the module becomes more of a heat sink, rather than a source of additional heat. To further exploit this, modules are often coated on the rear with a dark or heat-transmitting coating to promote radiative heat transfer to the ground or air space below the module. By way of non-limiting example, a dark or heat-transmitting coating may be provided as black-pigmented Tedlar® PVF sold by EI duPont de Neumours of Wilmington, Delaware, or as a dark Tedlar® coating sold as "Tedlar® Charcoal."

[0075]

[0086] Rear ventilation can be achieved by a variety of techniques. By way of non-limiting example, outlet vents can be connected to one or more vertical stacks to remove warm air using convection. Alternatively, DC power can be used to operate fans either when power is being generated or when peak power is detected. Inlet vents can use separate supply tubes or louvers cut into the edge framing of the module.

[0076]

[0087] String Processing Panel

[0077]

[0088] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing the wiring connection layout of adjacent solar panels 201. FIG. 10A shows an array of three strings of panels arranged in six columns. FIG. 10B shows the details of the connections. Adjacent panels 301 within a column are connected in series. At one end of the column, the series connection extends to the next column and then back to the beginning. The end connection is then connected to an inverter 1015. The inverter 1015 converts the power for downstream power use in the usual manner. Although one inverter 1015 is shown, multiple inverters 1015 can be used, with the inverter connections located near the end ends of the column.

[0078]

[0089] This arrangement limits the length of the series connections, and thus the output voltage of the array itself, to an acceptable level. A typical voltage limit for the strings of an array is 1500 volts, although residential facilities and other facilities where unqualified personnel are present are typically limited to lower voltages such as 600 volts. The arrangement limits the length ( By limiting the number of panels connected in series, the voltage is conveniently limited to the series output.

[0079]

[0090] Stringing techniques are useful because they allow for shorter row lengths without racking or trackers. Additionally, routing harnesses between rows is less complicated because there are no separate paths between adjacent rows. As a non-limiting example, the row length can be the number of panels required to produce half the maximum design voltage (to accommodate return runs). Individual panels have terminal leads or pigtails that connect directly to each other. This arrangement eliminates the need to provide a "home run" harness connection to link the end of a string of panels to the inverter connection at the end of the row. The row end connection must still connect to the nearest inverter if the inverter is not located immediately adjacent to the end of the row, but the intermediate connections required to extend the string to the end of a very long row are eliminated. Additional elimination of harness connections can be achieved through the use of individual inverters at the end of each pair of rows.

[0080]

[0091] Power Output

[0081]

[0092] FIG. 11 is a graph showing sample output for a single sunny day of solar power plant operation. The horizontal axis represents time, specifically a sample of daylight hours from approximately 7 AM to approximately 7 PM, with "solar noon" represented by the peak of the graph. The left vertical axis represents available sunlight, or "solar radiation," measured in watts per square meter (W / m2), or the typical amount of energy available from the sun during a given day. The curve peaking at 1000 W / m2 represents a typical day of sunlight. The peak, represented by "noon," is solar noon, which should not be confused with 12 o'clock on a clock, and typically varies from solar noon. The right vertical axis represents the AC power output of the power plant, as well as the DC power potential of the power plant, in the common measure of MW, or megawatts. The actual AC power output of the plant is represented by the two lower curves. The curve characterized by the double hump is a typical example of a tracker-type solar plant, with a maximum delivered power of 1 MW (in this example). The sharp dip in the tracker curve symbolizes clouds moving across the power plant between the plant and the sun. The other, lower curve represents an earth-oriented power plant power curve, also with a maximum delivered power of 1 MW. Two dotted lines extend above the power curves and represent additional unused portions of the available DC power. The smaller of the two curves is a tracker power plant, peaking at 1.25°C, while the higher curve is an earth-oriented power plant, peaking at 1.45°C.

[0082]

[0093] The AC power output of a power plant is intentionally limited for practical reasons and is largely related to the grid's capacity to absorb large amounts of power during a small portion of the day. Therefore, the AC power output shows a flat peak of 1.00 MW in this graph. The excess power is either unused or applied to alternative uses such as energy storage. When alternative energy storage is limited or unavailable, the additional energy can be used to support the grid in reactive units of volt-amperes (vars, sometimes given as VARs) or other power functions other than a direct increase in power output (MW). Alternatively, the excess power may be purchased by the grid utility as excess power or transported across the grid for use in remote locations.

[0083]

[0094] The economic advantage of the earth-oriented configuration of solar modules is due to the relative economy of the DC power generation components, as opposed to the total operating cost of the power plant. As shown in Figure 11, the two power curves have an arbitrary limit of 1 MW. This limit is set by the utility company to which the power is sold. This limit is used to calculate the power plant's The available DC power is a function of the utility's needs at the time of interconnection and cannot be exceeded by contract or design. An important note is that, as shown in Figure 11, the available DC power from an earth-oriented power plant is greater than the available DC power from a tracker power plant. This fact is a result of differences in the design, function, and economics of the power plants. Earth-oriented power plants have more available DC power because they have more modules for the same size AC usage. This is due to the elimination of the additional physical hardware required to hold the modules in space and the amount of land required to accommodate the amount of modules installed in racks that are spaced far enough apart so they do not shade each other. Earth-oriented plants have an inherent advantage over tracker and fixed-tilt plants in that they can contain more DC as a percentage of the design output that translates to AC size. The additional DC power in a power plant has an inherent value when available. This is true for any solar plant sized with a DC:AC ratio greater than 1.0. Because it is not available to deliver real power to the grid (the delivery of which generates revenue for the power plant owner), it is kept as potential power waiting to be delivered when and if needed. There are many ways this inherent value can be captured and provide value to the asset owner.

[0084] 1) During periods of intermittent cloud cover, clouds may cover only a portion of the power plant. The balance of the plant is available to run at full power. The additional DC potential has the effect of allowing the plant to ride out low light conditions from clouds while still delivering 100% of the AC power plant capacity allowed by the grid connection. When a large DC potential is present, the power plant can ride out larger and slower-moving clouds without dropping below 100% capacity. This effect is not currently calculated in the industry because it is currently impossible to make those measurements. As such, approximations are used. The accuracy of these approximations can only be determined empirically. What can be said is that the additional DC potential will provide some amount of benefit greater than zero.

[0085] 2) Utility operators who receive real power from power plants have developed means to use the potential DC power for their system's benefit. This benefit comes in the form of grid frequency regulation by adjusting auxiliary voltage and the power factor control capabilities of a set of connected inverters. Modern solar power operators have become aware of this benefit and are now selling this portion of their available power to utilities in the form of vars. The additional DC potential of an earth-oriented plant results in additional vars available for sale compared to a non-earth-oriented solar plant with the same AC power rating.

[0086] 3) Because the use of solid-state batteries or other energy storage or conversion means is becoming more economically viable, the ability to convert potential DC power from a solar plant to potential DC energy stored in storage means allows for the direct transfer of potential DC power towards the sale of actual energy to the grid when the sun is not available or during other valuable uses of energy. The additional DC potential of an earth-oriented plant results in additional energy potential available for sale compared to a non-earth-oriented solar plant of the same AC power rating.

[0087]

[0095] Solar Plant Layout

[0088]

[0096] 12A-12D are schematic diagrams showing the layout of a solar array for a commercial solar power plant. FIG. 12A shows a partial string array with three strings of panels arranged in six rows. FIG. 12B expands on FIG. 12A to show a partial string array with 18 strings. FIG. 12B shows a 6-string array with a string inverter in the center. The inverter 1015 is connected to the strings to convert DC power from the strings to AC power. FIG. 12C further expands on FIG. 12B, showing a 6-string array further collocated with one another. FIG. 12D further expands on FIG. 12C, showing a complete solar array 1220, consisting of an 18-string array, an 18-string inverter, 324 strings, and a single intermediate voltage converter receiving power from six sets of three series-connected string inverters. Utility-scale solar power plants typically include one or more of these arrays.

[0089]

[0097] cleaning

[0090]

[0098] The flat orientation of panels also offers advantages as far as cleaning is concerned. Flat-configured panels can be easily cleaned by automated warehouse street cleaners. Such cleaning devices include, for example, the FyBot "L" (a trademark of FyBots, Voisins-le-Bretonneux, France), a commercially available fully autonomous warehouse cleaning robot similar in operation to a domestic robotic vacuum cleaner, e.g., the Roomba (a trademark of iRobot Corporation); automated cleaning technology has been tested on Roomba 690-type cleaners. While cleaning is more important for earth-oriented solar panels, the ability to use low-cost automated cleaning allows for frequent cleaning at significantly less cost than would be incurred if a regimen had to be initiated to clean a rack-mounted array. Implementing a low-cost cleaning regimen on an earth-oriented array typically results in contamination loss reductions down from 6% for fixed-tilt and 3.5% for non-cleaning trackers to less than 1% for cleaned earth-oriented arrays.

[0091]

[0099] 12A-12D, for purposes of spanning gaps between portions of the array, bridges 1233 are provided to connect gaps within the array and enable the automated warehouse street cleaner to automatically traverse the gap. Similar bridges can also be provided between arrays to enable cleaning operations to automatically continue across multiple arrays.

[0092]

[0100] conclusion

[0093]

[0101] Details of parts, materials, etc. described and illustrated herein to illustrate the nature of the subject matter It will be understood that many additional variations in steps and arrangements can be made by those skilled in the art within the principles and scope of the invention as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of solar panels supported directly on the ground, at least a frame member of each panel positioned in a close-coupled arrangement or in an abutting arrangement of multiple rows of the solar panels to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels; a support for the solar panel at its edge portion on the ground, the solar panel rests on or above a smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground; resting the edge portions of the solar panels on a ground support area capable of receiving edge frames of a plurality of panels to support the edge portions; a support, the edge portion of which rests on the ground support area to provide mechanical support for the panel; an electrical interconnect for the solar panels of at least one series-connected string, the at least one series-connected string extending along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end points of the series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string, the interconnect including wiring connections that engage end connections of a plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing panels of at least two rows at the series-connected string connections, the string using the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the end of the string; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; an electrical interconnection such that the earth orientation of the solar panel provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by an automated horizontal surface cleaning device; an end curve member abutting an edge of at least one of the rows of said arrangement structures; a retaining clip including a bracket or spring clip arrangement used to link the panels in predetermined proximity to one another, the retaining clip including frame supports that engage individual solar panels and engage the solar panels at their edges to hold the solar panels with essentially limited lateral movement; Includes ground-mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

2. 10. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 1, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

3. 10. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 1, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

4. 10. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 1, The support for the solar panel at its edge on the ground is made of a plurality of panels. a trench formed as a groove, depression, or channel in the smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground that is excavated into the ground to receive an edge frame of a panel, whereby the edge portion that rests in the trench provides the mechanical support for the panel.

5. 5. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 4, The end curve members provide support to increase the positional stability of the solar panels on the ground for a ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array.

6. 10. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 1, the plurality of solar panels comprising a utility-scale solar array operating at greater than 600 Vdc in a protected area; a support for the solar panel at its edge portion above the ground and the earth orientation of the solar panel, resting the solar panel above or on the smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground so as to follow the existing contours of the land; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

7. 10. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 1, 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further comprising the retaining clip, the retaining clip including one or more spring clips with a raised retaining lip and frame support that engage an individual solar panel and engage the solar panel at its edge portion by snapping the panel into the spring clip.

8. 1. A method for providing a solar power plant including at least one array of photovoltaic panels, comprising: supporting a plurality of solar panels on the ground, wherein at least a frame member of each panel rests directly on the ground to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels of a solar panel array and to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels by resting rows of the solar panels on or above a smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground; resting the edge portions of the solar panels on a ground support area capable of receiving edge frames of a plurality of panels to support the edge portions of the solar panels, the edge portions resting on the ground support area providing mechanical support for the panels; providing an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the multi-row arrangement; providing a retaining clip including a bracket or spring clip arrangement used to link the panels at a predetermined proximity to one another, the retaining clip including frame supports that engage individual solar panels and engage the solar panels at their edges to hold the solar panels with essentially limited lateral movement; interconnecting the solar panels in at least one series-connected string; Including, The at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, and thus the string has a distance between the end points of the series connections that is smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string. the interconnecting step includes wiring connections engaging end connections of the plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing at least two rows of panels at the series-connected string connections, the string using the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along a direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the end of the string; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating the costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; The method wherein the earth orientation of the solar panel provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by an automated horizontal surface cleaning device.

9. 9. The method of claim 8, The method further includes using a ventilator to ventilate the space between the panel and the ground.

10. 9. The method of claim 8, providing at least a plurality of solar panels, each having an underside coated with a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer; providing a ventilation device for ventilating a space between the panel and the ground; The method further comprises:

11. 9. The method of claim 8, A method in which the support for the solar panel at its edge portion on the ground includes a groove formed as a groove, depression or channel in the smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground that is excavated into the ground to receive edge frames of a plurality of panels, whereby the edge portion resting in the groove provides the mechanical support for the panel.

12. 9. The method of claim 8, The method wherein the end curve members provide support to increase the positional stability of the solar panel on the ground.

13. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of utility-scale solar panels operating at greater than 600 Vdc in the protected area; a support for the solar panels at their edge portions directly on the ground, positioned in a close-adjacent arrangement or in an abutting arrangement of multiple rows of the solar panels so as to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels; the solar panel rests on or above a smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground; resting the edge portions of the solar panels on a ground support area capable of receiving edge frames of a plurality of panels to support the edge portions; a support, the edge portion of which rests on the ground support area to provide mechanical support for the panel; retention means for linking the panels in predetermined proximity to one another by engaging individual solar panels at their edge portions to hold said solar panels with essentially limited lateral movement; an electrical interconnect for at least one series-connected string of said solar panels; Including, The at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, so that the string a distance between the end ends of the series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panel to be constructed, the interconnects including wiring connections that engage end connections of a plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing at least two rows of panels at the series-connected string connections, the strings using the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the strings; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; An earth mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, wherein the earth orientation of the solar panels provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by automatic horizontal surface cleaning equipment.

14. 14. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 13, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the plurality of rows of said array structures.

15. 15. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 14, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

16. 15. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 14, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

17. 14. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 13, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

18. 14. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 13, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

19. 14. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 13, 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, further comprising: an earth orientation of said solar panels and supports for said solar panels at their edge portions on the ground, said earth orientation of said solar panels resting above or on said smooth or substantially flat portion of the ground so as to follow the existing contours of the land.

20. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: Multiple solar panels and means for supporting said solar panel at its edges on the ground; means for interconnecting said solar panels in at least one series-connected string; Including, The at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end points of the series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string.

21. 21. The solar panel array of claim 20, and a mounting bracket connecting the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic array, the mounting bracket comprising: at least one first type edge flange mating with the outer edge frames of a plurality of said panels, said first type edge flange fitting with each edge frame; a plurality of second-type edge flanges corresponding to one of the inner edge flanges mating with the inside of each of the outer edge frames of the plurality of panels, the second-type edge flanges fitting to each one of the first-type edge flanges to cooperate with and grip the respective edge frame; an upper retaining member aligned with the edge frame of each panel, the upper retaining member retaining the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby retaining each panel in place on the mounting bracket; a body section linking a plurality of first type edge flanges and a plurality of second type edge flanges to hold the panel in a linked relationship; Solar panel array including.

22. 22. The solar panel array of claim 21, The solar panel array, wherein at least one of the first type edge flanges and the second type edge flanges has mechanical resilience and bias to engage an edge panel of the panels.

23. 22. The solar panel array of claim 21, A solar panel array in which the first type of edge flanges terminate in a top flange for retaining the panel secured to the mounting bracket.

24. 22. The solar panel array of claim 21, further comprising anchoring members engaging the mounting brackets to hold the plurality of panels in place on the ground; The gripping members protrude from one of the first and second types of edge flanges to grip the respective edge frames, thereby holding the panels when the anchoring members engage the mounting brackets.

25. 21. The solar panel array of claim 20, and a mounting bracket connecting the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic array, the mounting bracket comprising: a plurality of first type edge flanges mating with the edge frames of the plurality of panels and including adjacent edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels at corners of the panel, the inner edge flanges fitting into the respective edge frames; Type edge flange and a plurality of second-type edge flanges corresponding to one of the first-type edge flanges mating with a respective one of the edge frames and secured to the respective one of the edge flanges, the second-type edge flanges fitting to the respective one of the first-type edge flanges to cooperate with the respective one of the edge frames and grip the respective one of the edge frames; a gripping member aligned with the edge frame of each panel, the gripping member holding the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby holding each panel in place on the mounting bracket; a body section linking the plurality of first type edge flanges and the plurality of second type edge flanges to hold the panel in a linked relationship; Solar panel array including.

26. 21. The solar panel array of claim 20, The solar panel array further includes the means for interconnecting including wiring connections that engage end connections of the plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing at least two rows of panels at the series-connected string connections, the string using the at least two rows to route the connections such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along the opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the strings.

27. 21. The solar panel array of claim 20, said means for supporting said solar panel at its edge on the ground; a smooth or substantially flat portion of ground; a ground support area capable of receiving edge frames of a plurality of panels to support the edge portions of the panels, such that the edge portions resting on the ground support area provide mechanical support for the panels; end stops or curved members positioned at the edges of the array; Solar panel array including.

28. 21. The solar panel array of claim 20, said means for supporting said solar panel at its edge on the ground; a smooth or substantially flat portion of ground; a groove formed as a groove, depression or channel excavated into the ground to receive the edge frames of a plurality of panels, whereby the edge portions resting in the groove provide mechanical support for the panels; Solar panel array including.

29. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: Multiple solar panels and a support for supporting the solar panel at its edge portion on the ground; an interconnection for interconnecting the solar panels, the interconnection including a wiring connection engaging end connections of a plurality of photovoltaic panels in at least one series-connected string, the at least one series-connected string extending along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end ends of series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the string; 、 a smooth or substantially flat portion of ground; a ground support area capable of receiving edge frames of a plurality of panels to support the edge portions of the panels, such that the edge portions resting on the ground support area provide mechanical support for the panels; a solar photovoltaic array including:

30. 30. The solar photovoltaic array of claim 29, A solar photovoltaic array wherein the means for supporting the solar panels at their edges on the ground further comprises end stops or curved members positioned at the edges of the array.

31. 30. The solar photovoltaic array of claim 29, The solar photovoltaic array further comprising a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panel and the ground.

32. 30. The solar photovoltaic array of claim 29, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; The solar photovoltaic array further comprises:

33. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of solar panels supported on the ground to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels and positioned in a close-coupled arrangement or in abutting arrangement of multiple rows of the solar panels; an interconnection circuit for the solar panels connecting the solar panels in at least one series-connected string; Including, the at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end points of the series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string; the means for interconnecting includes wiring connections that engage end connections of a plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections being arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing panels of at least two rows at the series-connected string connections; the string uses the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the string; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; An earth mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, wherein the earth orientation of the solar panels provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by automatic horizontal surface cleaning equipment.

34. 34. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 33, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the plurality of rows of said array structures.

35. 34. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 33, A ground-mounted device further including a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground. Utility-scale solar photovoltaic array.

36. 34. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 33, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

37. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of utility-scale solar panels operating at greater than 600 Vdc in the protected area; means for supporting said solar panel at its edges on the ground; means for supporting said solar panel in direct contact with or substantially intimate contact with and substantially parallel to an earth surface; means for supporting said solar panels in adjacent or close adjacent relationship to establish a grid pattern both edge-to-edge and edge-to-edge; Includes ground-mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

38. 38. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 37, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the multi-row arrangement.

39. 38. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 37, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

40. 38. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 37, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

41. a plurality of photovoltaic solar panels mounted to a ground-mounted support that supports the solar panels and that establishes a ground orientation of the solar panels of a solar panel array; 1. A plurality of mounting brackets for connecting photovoltaic panels of a ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, said mounting brackets comprising: a plurality of mounting brackets, including at least a subset of the mounting brackets having flanged arrangements that can engage with an edge portion of one of the photovoltaic panels and flanged arrangements that can engage with the edge portions of a plurality of photovoltaic panels; a wiring connection engaging the end connections of the plurality of photovoltaic panels; Including, The wiring connections are arranged to connect adjacent or closely adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing at least two rows of panels in a series "string" connection, the string using the at least two rows to route the connections, thus forming a first A solar energy system in which a string starting at an end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along the opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the string.

42. 42. The solar energy system of claim 41 , The solar energy system further comprising an anchoring member that engages the mounting bracket to hold the plurality of panels in place on the ground.

43. 42. The solar energy system of claim 41 , The solar energy system further comprising a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panel and the ground.

44. 42. The solar energy system of claim 41 , at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; The solar energy system further comprises:

45. 42. The solar energy system of claim 41 , The solar energy system further comprising a retention clamp or clasp capable of holding the photovoltaic panel in engagement with the mounting bracket.

46. 1. A method for providing a solar power plant including at least one array of photovoltaic panels, comprising: The lower relative cost of a photovoltaic array provides a more economical means for providing additional peak power, voltage or electrical power factor correction at lower cleaning costs compared to the entire solar power plant, and the method comprises: supporting a plurality of solar panels on the ground to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels of the solar panel array and to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels; interconnecting the solar panels in at least one series-connected string; Including, the at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end points of the series connections that is less than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string; the means for interconnecting includes wiring connections that engage end connections of a plurality of photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string, the wiring connections being arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing panels of at least two rows at the series-connected string connections; the string uses the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string starting at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the string; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; The method wherein the earth orientation of the solar panel provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by an automated horizontal surface cleaning device.

47. 47. The method of claim 46, To further support the plurality of solar panels to the ground, at least one of the rows of the arrangement structure The method further includes using an end curve member that abuts at least one edge.

48. 47. The method of claim 46, The method further comprising using a ventilator to ventilate the space between the panel and the ground.

49. 47. The method of claim 46, providing at least a plurality of solar panels, each having an underside coated with a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; The method further comprises:

50. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of utility-scale solar panels operating at greater than 600 Vdc in the protected area; means for supporting said solar panel at its edges on the ground; means for supporting said solar panel in direct contact with or substantially intimate contact with and substantially parallel to an earth surface; means for supporting said solar panels in adjacent or close adjacent relationship to establish a grid pattern both edge-to-edge and edge-to-edge; Includes ground-mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

51. 51. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 50, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the multi-row arrangement.

52. 51. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 50, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

53. 51. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 50, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

54. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: Multiple solar panels and means for supporting the solar panels above the ground, positioned in a close-coupled arrangement or in an abutting arrangement of multiple rows of the solar panels to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels; means for interconnecting said solar panels in at least one series-connected string; Including, The at least one series-connected string extends along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between the end points of the series connections that is smaller than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string, and the means for interconnecting the photovoltaic panels of the series-connected string wherein the wire connections are arranged to connect adjacent panels in an arrangement utilizing at least two rows of panels at the series connected string connections, the strings using the at least two rows to route the connections, such that a string beginning at a first end termination extends along the direction of the at least two rows and returns along an opposite direction of the at least two rows, thereby reducing or eliminating "home run" connections at the ends of the strings; the earth orientation reduces the cost of the photovoltaic array by eliminating costs associated with providing and installing elevation supports for the solar panels; An earth mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, wherein the earth orientation of the solar panels provides a flat orientation that allows cleaning by automatic horizontal surface cleaning equipment.

55. 55. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 54, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes an edge curve member abutting at least one edge of the plurality of rows of said array structures.

56. 55. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 54, The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array further includes a ventilator for ventilating a space between the panels and the ground.

57. 55. The ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array of claim 54, at least a plurality of solar panels, each having a dark or heat-transfer coating that promotes heat transfer, the underside of the solar panel being coated; a ventilator for ventilating the space between the panel and the ground; Further including ground mounted utility scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

58. 1. A mounting bracket for connecting photovoltaic panels in a ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of outer edge flanges mating with the edge frames of the plurality of panels and including adjacent edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels at corners of the panel, the inner edge flanges fitting inside the respective edge frames; at least one bottom flange corresponding to one of the outer edge flanges and supporting the mounting bracket relative to the plurality of panels; at least one mounting grip supporting the plurality of panels to prevent lifting of the panels; a gripping member aligned with one of the top or bottom flanges for each panel, the gripping member holding the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby holding each panel in place on the mounting bracket; Includes mounting bracket.

59. 59. The mounting bracket of claim 58, anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; the mounting grip including at least one upper flange supporting the plurality of panels relative to the mounting bracket to prevent lifting of the panels; The mounting bracket further includes:

60. 59. The mounting bracket of claim 58, A mounting bracket, wherein a body section linking the plurality of inner and outer edge flanges further includes a separable cap section that engages a component part of at least a portion of the mounting bracket secured to the bottom flange.

61. 59. The mounting bracket of claim 58, a body section linking the plurality of inner edge flanges and outer edge flanges, at least one bottom section engaging at least one panel, wherein collectively, one or more of the bottom sections engage all adjacent panels in the panel arrangement; a separable cap section that engages at least a portion of the mounting bracket component secured to the bottom flange, the separable cap section including the outer flange; Further comprising: A mounting bracket, wherein securing the separable cap section with either an anchoring member or the bottom section locks the mounting bracket to the panel.

62. 1. A mounting bracket for connecting photovoltaic panels in a ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: a plurality of first type edge flanges mating with edge frames of a plurality of panels and including adjacent edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels at corners of the panel, the inner edge flanges fitting to the respective edge frames; a plurality of second-type edge flanges corresponding to one of the first-type edge flanges mating with a respective one of the edge frames and secured to the respective one of the edge flanges, the second-type edge flanges fitting to the respective one of the first-type edge flanges to cooperate with the respective one of the edge frames and grip the respective one of the edge frames; a gripping member aligned with the edge frame of each panel, the gripping member holding the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby holding each panel in place on the mounting bracket; a body section linking the plurality of first type edge flanges and the plurality of second type edge flanges to hold the panel in a linked relationship; Including, The mounting bracket is configured to support the solar panels on the ground in a ground orientation of the solar panels of a solar panel array, and to establish a ground orientation of the solar panels.

63. 63. The mounting bracket of claim 62, the first type of edge flange including an inner edge flange that mates with the edge frame, such that the inner edge flange fits inside the respective edge frame; the second type edge flanges including outer edge flanges that are mated with the edge frames, such that the outer edge flanges fit on the outside of the respective edge frames; the body section linking a plurality of inner and outer edge flanges to hold the inner and outer edge flanges; The mounting bracket further includes:

64. 63. The mounting bracket of claim 62, The mounting bracket further includes said first and second types of edge flanges including top and bottom edge flanges that mate with said edge frame in top and bottom clamping arrangements.

65. 63. The mounting bracket of claim 62, the body section linking the first and second type edge flanges; a separable cap section that engages a component part of a portion of the mounting bracket secured to at least one of the inner edge flange and the outer edge flange; a panel support segment of the mounting bracket supporting the inner edge flange; anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; the separable cap section including the outer edge flange and linking a plurality of the panel support segments; Further comprising: A mounting bracket having a clamping section that receives or is attached to the anchor member.

66. 66. The mounting bracket of claim 65, The mounting bracket has gripping members protruding from one of the first and second types of edge flanges to grip the respective edge frame, thereby holding the panel when the anchoring members engage the mounting bracket.

67. 63. The mounting bracket of claim 62, The mounting bracket, wherein the body section linking the first and second types of edge flanges further includes a separable cap section that engages a component part of a portion of the mounting bracket secured to at least one of the inner edge flange and the outer edge flange.

68. 68. The mounting bracket of claim 67, a panel support segment of the mounting bracket supporting the first and second types of edge flanges; anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; the separable cap section linking a plurality of the panel support segments; Further comprising: A mounting bracket having a clamping section that receives or is attached to the anchor member.

69. 68. The mounting bracket of claim 67, at least one of the plurality of first and second types of edge flanges having at least one mounting grip protruding toward one of the edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels to engage one of the edge frame sections and hold the panel; anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; Further comprising: The mounting grips protrude from one of the first and second types of edge flanges to grip the respective edge frame, thereby securing the anchoring members to the mounting brackets. a mounting bracket that holds the panel when engaged with the mounting bracket.

70. 1. A ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: Multiple solar panels and means for supporting said solar panel at its edges on the ground; means for interconnecting the solar panels in at least one series-connected string, the at least one series-connected string extending along adjacent or closely adjacent solar panels along at least two rows, such that the string has a distance between end points of series connections that is smaller than a longitudinal dimension of the solar panels that make up the string; a mounting bracket connecting the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic array; Includes ground-mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic arrays.

71. 71. The solar panel array of claim 70, a plurality of first type edge flanges mating with the edge frames of the plurality of panels and including adjacent edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels at corners of the panel, the inner edge flanges fitting to the respective edge frames; a plurality of second-type edge flanges corresponding to one of the first-type edge flanges mating with a respective one of the edge frames and secured to the respective one of the edge flanges, the second-type edge flanges fitting to the respective one of the first-type edge flanges to cooperate with the respective one of the edge frames and grip the respective one of the edge frames; a gripping member aligned with the edge frame of each panel, the gripping member holding the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby holding each panel in place on the mounting bracket; a body section linking the plurality of first type edge flanges and the plurality of second type edge flanges to hold the panel in a linked relationship; a mounting bracket for mounting the solar panel array to the solar panel array;

72. 72. The solar panel array of claim 71, the first type of edge flange including an inner edge flange that mates with the edge frame, such that the inner edge flange fits inside the respective edge frame; the second type edge flanges including outer edge flanges that are mated with the edge frames, such that the outer edge flanges fit on the outside of the respective edge frames; the body section linking a plurality of inner and outer edge flanges to hold the inner and outer edge flanges; The solar panel array further includes:

73. 72. The solar panel array of claim 71, the body section of a mounting bracket linking the first and second type edge flanges; a separable cap section that engages a component part of a portion of the mounting bracket secured to at least one of the inner edge flange and the outer edge flange; a panel support segment of the mounting bracket supporting the inner edge flange; the separable cap section including the outer edge flange and linking a plurality of the panel support segments; anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; Further comprising: the body section of a mounting bracket linking the first and second type edge flanges; a separable cap section that engages a component part of a portion of the mounting bracket secured to at least one of the inner edge flange and the outer edge flange; a panel support segment of the mounting bracket supporting the inner edge flange; the separable cap section including the outer edge flange and linking a plurality of the panel support segments, the separable cap section having a clamp section adapted to receive or be attached to the anchoring member; The solar panel array further includes:

74. 72. The solar panel array of claim 71, anchoring members that engage the mounting brackets to hold the panels in place on the ground; at least one of the plurality of first and second types of edge flanges having at least one mounting grip protruding toward one of the edge frame sections of at least one of the plurality of panels to engage one of the edge frame sections and hold the panel; Further comprising: The mounting grips protrude from one of the first and second types of edge flanges to grip the respective edge frames, thereby holding the panels when the anchoring members engage the mounting brackets.

75. 1. A mounting bracket for connecting photovoltaic panels in a ground mountable utility-scale solar photovoltaic array, comprising: at least one first type edge flange mating with the outer edge frames of a plurality of said panels, said first type edge flange fitting with each edge frame; a plurality of second-type edge flanges corresponding to one of the inner edge flanges mating with the inside of each of the outer edge frames of the plurality of panels, the second-type edge flanges fitting to each one of the first-type edge flanges to cooperate with and grip the respective edge frame; an upper retaining member aligned with the edge frame of each panel, the upper retaining member retaining the edge frame in place on the mounting bracket, and thereby retaining each panel in place on the mounting bracket; a body section linking a plurality of first type edge flanges and a plurality of second type edge flanges to hold the panel in a linked relationship; Includes mounting bracket.

76. 76. The solar panel array of claim 75, The solar panel array, wherein at least one of the first type edge flanges and the second type edge flanges has mechanical resilience and bias to engage an edge panel of the panels.

77. 76. The solar panel array of claim 75, The panel, wherein the first type edge flange is secured to the mounting bracket. The solar panel array terminates at the top flange to hold the

78. 76. The solar panel array of claim 75, further comprising anchoring members engaging the mounting brackets to hold the plurality of panels in place on the ground; The gripping members protrude from one of the first and second types of edge flanges to grip the respective edge frames, thereby holding the panels when the anchoring members engage the mounting brackets.

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