Hail resistant photovoltaic devices and systems

Abstract

Described herein are solar power plants having hail resistant photovoltaic modules (102) with hail absorbing members (180), hail guards, or hail guard covers, methods for operating the solar power plants, and hail resistant photovoltaic modules with hail absorbing members, hail guards, or hail guard covers.

Description

HAIL RESISTANT PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND SYSTEMSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 542,641, filed on October 5, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present specification generally relates to solar power plants and, more specifically, to devices, systems, and methods for mitigating loss of power due to hailstorms.

[0003] Solar power plants generate energy from arrays of photovoltaic modules. The photovoltaic modules can have an operational life extending over multiple decades. During the operational life, the photovoltaic modules can be exposed to harsh weather conditions such as, for example, hailstorms. At times, the size and mass of the hail can generate impact energy that exceeds the impact resistance of typical substrates for solar modules. Accordingly, a severe hailstorm can damage the substrate for solar modules and cut short the operational life of the solar module.

[0004] Accordingly, a need exists for alternative devices, systems, and methods for preventing, minimizing, and mitigating hail damage.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings.

[0006] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a solar power system according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0007] FIG. 2A schematically depicts an example of solar tracking;

[0008] FIG. 2B schematically depicts an example of solar tracking;

[0009] FIG. 2C schematically depicts an example of solar tracking;

[0010] FIG. 3 schematically depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0011] FIG. 4 schematically depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0012] FIG. 5 schematically depicts a cross sectional view of a hail absorbing member of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0013] FIG. 6 schematically depicts a cross sectional view of a hail absorbing member of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0014] FIG. 7 schematically depicts a cross sectional view of a hail absorbing member of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0015] FIG. 8 schematically depicts a hail resistant photovoltaic module in a hail mitigation orientation according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0016] FIG. 9A depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0017] FIG. 9B depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0018] FIG. 10 depicts a cross sectional view of an example of a hail resistant photovoltaic module;

[0019] FIG. 11 A depicts an example grid pattern for an example of a hail guard;

[0020] FIG. 1 IB depicts an example grid pattern for an example of a hail guard;

[0021] FIG. 11C depicts an example grid pattern for an example of a hail guard;

[0022] FIG. 12 depicts an example of a solar power system;

[0023] FIG. 13 depicts an example of a solar power system; and

[0024] FIG. 14 depicts a solar power system according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Provided are hail resistant photovoltaic modules for use in solar power systems. A solar power system comprises hail resistant photovoltaic modules operable to generate electricity from solar radiation. The hail resistant photovoltaic modules are coupled to a mounting system. The mounting system can include solar trackers with actuators that alter the angle of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules. As described herein, the solar trackers can be configured to rotate the hail resistant photovoltaic modules in response to a hailstorm. Various embodiments of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules, solar power systems incorporating the hail resistant photovoltaic modules, and methods for operating the solar power systems are described in more detail herein.

[0026] Referring now to FIG. 1, a solar power system 100 is depicted. The solar power system 100 can include hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102. Multiple of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 can be connected, in parallel or in series, arranged into arrays 104. Each of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 in an array 104 can be oriented at an anglerelative to the ground or other reference datum. Multiple strings 106 of the arrays 104 can be connected in parallel to a single output at a combiner box 108. Combiner boxes 108 can combine electricity received from multiple arrays 104 and transmit the electricity to a power conversion station 110.

[0027] The power conversion station 110 can be operable to convert DC power to AC power and to modify the voltage of the AC power. For example, the power conversion station 110 can include one or more inverters 112 and transformers 114. The inverter 112 can control the DC power output of arrays 104 by modulating voltage. The inverters 112 can include algorithms and programming for improving power output performance such as, for example, maximum power point tracking. Accordingly, the inverters 112 can be responsive to input DC power to control AC output power. Exemplary inverters 112 for utility scale solar power systems 100 include, but are not limited to, Power Electronics ELEC -US V1500 and SMA Sunny Central 750CP-US.

[0028] The inverter 112 can receive DC power from the combiner box 108 and convert the DC power to AC power. The inverter 112 can transmit AC power to the transformer 114. The transformer 114 can increase the voltage of the received AC power and transmit AC voltage output. The output power from multiple power conversion stations 110 can be received at a photovoltaic combining switchgear 120. Additionally, the photovoltaic combining switchgear 120 can include fused switch gear and metering transformers for monitoring current and voltage levels. The photovoltaic combining switchgear 120 can combine the output from multiple power conversion stations 110 and increase the magnitude of the current.

[0029] The photovoltaic combining switchgear 120 can transmit the output power to a substation 122. The substation 122 serves as the point of common coupling between the solar power system 100 and the power grid 124. Specifically, the substation 122 can be connected to the transmission lines of the power grid 124 and operate to increase the voltage of the power received from the photovoltaic combining switchgear 120. The substation 122 can include transformers that increase the voltage to a level adapted for the grid voltage specified for the transmission line. Accordingly, the power grid 124 can specify the output of the substation 122. Additionally, the substation 122 can include current and voltage metering equipment to monitor the amount of power supplied by the solar power system 100 to the power grid.

[0030] The depicted solar power system 100 is simplified for ease of description. It is to be understood that embodiments of the solar power system 100 can include pluralities of the components described herein. As an example, in a typical installation, multiple strings on the order of about 1.5kV each can be connected in parallel to a power conversion station. At thepower conversion station, the inverters can modify the input power during conversion from thousands of volts DC to hundreds of volts AC. The transformer of the power conversion station can increase to thousands of volts AC. Power conversion stations can be rated to output at the megawatt scale of AC power. The output of multiple power conversion stations can be supplied to the photovoltaic combining switchgear, each rated to output power of an order of magnitude higher than the power conversion station. The substation can then step up the voltage to between about 69 kV and about 765 kV, depending on the grid voltage specified for the transmission line.

[0031] Components of the solar power system 100 can be communicatively coupled by one or more communication channels 130 to one or more processors 132 and one or more memory components 134. As used herein, the term “communicatively coupled” means that the components are capable of exchanging data signals with one another such as, for example, electrical signals via conductive medium, electromagnetic signals via air, optical signals via optical waveguides, and the like.

[0032] According to the embodiments described herein, a processor 132 means a device capable of executing machine readable instructions. Accordingly, each of the one or more processors may be a controller (e.g., programmable logic controller (PLC) or proportional-integral-derivative controller (PID controller), an integrated circuit, a microchip, a computer, or an other computing device. The one or more processors can be configured to execute logic or software and perform functions that control the movement of the solar modules. Specifically, the one or more processors 132 can be communicatively coupled to one or more memory components 134 that can store the logic and / or input received by the one or more processors 132. The memory components 134 described herein may be RAM, ROM, a flash memory, a hard drive, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, or a device capable of storing machine readable instructions. For example, the one or more processors 132 can receive, transmit, execute, or a combination thereof supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) inputs or outputs or automated generation control inputs or outputs, which may define power set points, weather information, tracker controls, or other grid operator control functions. In some embodiments, the one or more processors 132 can be integrated with or receive machine readable instructions from manual or automated grid control operators, or plant level control signals and / or use SCADA control system architecture, using networked data communications and graphical user interfaces for high-level process supervisory management, and other peripheral devices such as programmable logic controllers and discrete PID controllers.

[0033] Embodiments of the present disclosure comprise logic that includes machine readable instructions or a program written in a programming language of a generation (e.g., 1GL, 2GL, 3GL, 4GL, or 5GL) such as, e.g., machine language that may be directly executed by the processor 165, or assembly language, object-oriented programming (OOP), scripting languages, microcode, etc., that may be compiled or assembled into machine readable instructions and stored on a machine readable medium. Alternatively, the logic or instructions may be written in a hardware description language (HDL), such as logic implemented via either a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) configuration, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and their equivalents. Accordingly, the logic may be implemented in a computer programming language, as pre-programmed hardware elements, or as a combination of hardware and software components.

[0034] The solar power system 100 can include one or more ambient condition sensors 136 communicatively coupled to the one or more processors 132. The ambient condition sensors 136 can receive information indicative of operating conditions such as, for example, precipitation, temperature, wind, and light-intensity. The ambient condition sensors 136 may be placed in multiple locations throughout the solar power system 100. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more ambient condition sensors 136 can be remotely located. Collected data may include, but is not limited to: precipitation, light intensity, wind speed, wind direction, air temperature, module temperature, tilt angle, array position, module location, light spectra, precipitation, and humidity.

[0035] Referring collectively to FIGS. 1, 2 A, 2B, and 2C, the solar power system 100 can include one or more trackers 140 communicatively coupled to the one or more processors 132. Each of the trackers 140 can an include an actuator 142 coupled to an array 104 and operable to alter a tilt angle 144 of the array 104 of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102. Specifically, the actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104 via one or more mounting components and configured to rotate modules of the array 104 in response to signals received from the one or more processors 132. The tracker 140 can be configured for single axis actuation or multi-axis actuation (e.g., dual axis). The actuator 142 can include individual or ganged motor, pneumatic, or other drive mechanisms for adjusting the tilt angle 144 as described herein. The actuator 142 can be connected to one or more power sources, including a battery back-up or uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

[0036] It is noted that while FIG. 1 depicts a particular arrangement of processors 132 and memory 134, the embodiments provided can include a multitude of processors and memory that operate as described herein. For example, each of the trackers 140 can include memorycomponents and processing components that each execute some or all of the processing steps described herein. The one or more processors 132 can execute various instructions for altering the tilt angle 144 such as, for example, pre-programmed sun-path data supplemented with GPS sensor timing, real-time clock to establish tracking path, timing logic, and / or hail mitigation.

[0037] Referring collectively to FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, and 2C, the one or more processors 132 can receive data from the ambient condition sensors 136 indicative of intensity, incident angle or both of solar irradiance 146. During normal operation, the hail resistance photovoltaic modules 102 can have a tilt angle 144, whereby zero degrees corresponds to the first side 150 being parallel to the horizon line 103, as shown in FIG. 2B. The one or more processors 132 can execute machine readable instructions to automatically activate the actuator 142 to rotate the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 and alter the tilt angle 144. Specifically, the one or more processors 132 can cause the tilt angle 144 change and dynamically ‘hunt’ for an angle that substantially matches the solar irradiance 146, i.e., the angle of incidence of the peak magnitude of the solar irradiance 146.

[0038] FIGS. 2 A, 2B, and 2C depict an example of solar tracking. Referring to FIG. 2 A, which can correspond to a point of time in the morning of a typical day, the actuator 142 can automatically alter the tilt angle 144 to substantially match the solar irradiance 146 in the morning. Referring to FIG. 2B, which can correspond to a point of time near midday of a typical day, the actuator 142 can automatically alter the tilt angle 144 to substantially match the solar irradiance 146 in the midday. Referring to FIG. 2B, which can correspond to a point of time near late afternoon of a typical day, the actuator 142 can automatically alter the tilt angle 144 to substantially match the solar irradiance 146 in the late afternoon. Accordingly, the tracker 140 can alter the tilt angle 144 to the path of the solar irradiance 146 to improve the amount of power generated. In some examples, the tracker 140 can alter the tilt angle 144 between 0 degrees to ±180 degrees.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 3, an embodiment of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 is schematically depicted. The hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can be configured to receive light and transform light into electrical signals, e.g., photons can be absorbed from the light and transformed into electrical signals via the photovoltaic effect. As provided herein, the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can define a first side 150 configured to receive direct sunlight. The hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can also define a second side or a hail resistant side 152 offset from the first side 150 such as, for example, by a plurality of material layers. In bifacial devices, the second side 152 can be configured to receive reflected and indirect sunlight. It is noted that the term “light” can referto various wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum such as, but not limited to, wavelengths in the ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), and visible portions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

[0040] The photovoltaic device 102 can include a transparent layer 160. The transparent layer 160 can be formed from a substantially transparent material such as, for example, glass. Examples can include soda-lime glass, or glass with reduced iron content. The transparent layer 160 can have a selected transmittance, including about 250 nm to about 1,300 nm in some embodiments, about 350 nm to about 750 nm, or about 250 nm to about 950 nm in other embodiments. The transparent layer 160 may also have a transmission percentage, including, for example, more than about 50% in one embodiment, more than about 60% in another embodiment, more than about 70% in yet another embodiment, more than about 80% in a further embodiment, or more than about 85% in still a further embodiment. In one embodiment, transparent layer 160 can be formed from a glass with about 90% transmittance, or more.

[0041] The hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can include photoactive cells 170 provided upon the transparent layer 160. The photoactive cells 170 can be configured to transform light into electrical energy. The photoactive cells 170 can include photoactive material organized into individual cells and interconnected via conductors. Examples of photoactive material include, but are not limited to, thin film materials (e.g., CdTe, CIGS, CdSe, and combinations thereof), silicon materials (e.g., monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and amorphous silicon), perovskite materials, or combinations thereof. For example, the photoactive cells 170 can be configured as tandem solar cells.

[0042] Referring still to FIG. 3, the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can include a protective layer 162. The protective layer 162 can cooperate with the transparent layer 160 to protect the photoactive cells 170 from ambient conditions, i.e., moisture and impurities. For example, the protective layer 162 and the transparent layer 160 can be sealed together via lamination with one or more polymer interlayers to form a robust housing for the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. In certain examples, the protective layer 162 is a transparent layer.

[0043] The hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can include a hail absorbing member 180 positioned at the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. The hail absorbing member 180 can span a thickness 182 between a proximal end 184 and a distal end 186. The proximal end 184 of the hail absorbing member 180 can be positioned closest to the photoactive cells 170. The distal end 186 of the hail absorbing member 180 can demarcate the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. Generally, the hail absorbing member 180 is configured to at least partially absorb the energy of projectilesdirected towards the hail resistant side 152. For example, upon impact, the distal end 186 of the hail absorbing member 180 can be configured to deform towards the proximal end 184 of the hail absorbing member 180. The deformation can be plastic or elastic. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the hail absorbing member 180 can comprise a metallic material such as, for example, aluminum, copper, tin, or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail absorbing member 180 can comprise a rigid polymer such as, for example, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polypropylene, a fiber reinforced polymer, or the like. The hail absorbing member 180 can be attached to other portions of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with fasteners. For example, the hail absorbing member 180 can be attached to a frame 164 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with bolts, clips, screws or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail absorbing member 180 can be joined with other portions of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with adhesive.

[0044] Referring collectively to FIGS. 3 and 4, in another embodiment of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 202, the hail absorbing member 180 can be provided directly over the photoactive cells 170. For example, the protective layer 162 can be omitted. In such embodiments, the hail absorbing member 180 can include a moisture inhibiting layer or be formed from a material that mitigates moisture intrusion to the photoactive cells 170 such as, but not limited to, closed cell foam or a polymer.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 5, the hail absorbing member 180 can include one or more sheet structures 190 that at least partially span the thickness 182. The sheet structures 190 can be thin walled. Specifically, the sheet structures 190 can have a wall thickness 192 that is less than about 1 / 10 of the thickness 182 of the hail absorbing member 180 such as, for example, less than about 1 / 15 in one embodiment. Alternatively, or additionally, the sheet structures 190 can have a wall thickness 192 that is less than about 0.25 cm, such as for example, less than about 0.20 cm in one embodiment. In some embodiments, the sheet structures 190 can be formed into a corrugated shape such that troughs 194 of the corrugation demarcate the proximal end 184 of the hail absorbing member 180 and peaks 196 demarcate the distal end 186 of the hail absorbing member 180.

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 6, in another embodiment, a hail absorbing member 280 can include a proximal sheet 210 and a distal sheet 212. The proximal sheet 210 can demarcate the proximal end 184 of the hail absorbing member 280. The distal sheet 212 can demarcate the distal end 186 of the hail absorbing member 280. Accordingly, the thickness 182 of the hail absorbing member 280 can span the sheet structure 190, the proximal sheet 210, and the distal sheet 212. The proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212 can be attached to the sheetstructure 190 to increase the thickness 182 and improve the robustness of the hail absorbing member 280. The faces 198 of the sheet structure 190 can extend along the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212. An edge 199 of the sheet structure 190 be directed away from the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212. In some embodiments, the faces 198 of the sheet structure 190 can be attached to the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212.

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 7, in another embodiment of a hail absorbing member 380, the one or more sheet structures 190 can extend between the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212. For example, edge 199 of the sheet structure 190 be directed towards the proximal sheet 210. Alternatively, or additionally, edge 199 of the sheet structure 190 be directed towards the distal sheet 212. In some embodiments, the edges 199 of the sheet structure 190 can be attached to the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212. The faces 198 of the sheet structure 190 can be directed away from the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212, i.e., oriented vertically relative to the proximal sheet 210 and the distal sheet 212. According to the embodiments provided herein, the one or more sheet structures 190 can form small compartments or substantially tubular shapes. For example, the one or more sheet structures 190 of the hail absorbing member 380 can be arranged into substantially tubular shape having a hexagonal cross section. The tubular shapes can be repeated to form a pattern, i.e., a honeycomb including multiple tubular shapes. Alternative or additional shapes are contemplated. For example, the tubular shapes described herein can include rectangular cross sections, circular cross, hexagonal cross sections, or combination thereof.

[0048] Referring collectively to FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 2C, and 8, the one or more processors 132 can be configured to respond automatically to the presence of hail 220. For example, the one or more processors can receive data from the ambient condition sensors 136 indicative of hail 220, incident angle 222 of the hail 220 or both. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail 220 related data can be received by the one or more processors via SCADA, a weather service communication, command inputs, or the like. After receiving the hail 220 related data, the one or more processors 132 can automatically activate the actuator 142 to rotate the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 and alter the tilt angle 144 to a hail mitigation orientation 224. Specifically, the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant module 102 can substantially face the hail 220. Accordingly, the tilt angle 144 can be altered to an angle at least ±30 degrees, at least ±60 degrees, at least ±90 degrees, at least±100 degrees, at least ±105 degrees, at least 115 degrees, at least ±120 degrees, at least ±150 degrees, in a range of 0 degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±30 degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±60 degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±90 degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±120 degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±150degrees to ±180 degrees, in a range of ±90 degrees to ±120 degrees, in a range of ±100 degrees to ±120 degrees, or in a range of ±105 degrees to ±120 degrees, whereby zero degrees corresponds to the first side 150 being parallel to the horizon line 103, as shown in FIG. 2B. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more processors 132 can automatically determine the tilt angle 144 based upon the incident angle 222 of the hail 220. For example, the tilt angle 144 can be configured to substantially match the incident angle 222 or to track to the incident angle 222 with an offset amount.

[0049] Accordingly, the one or more processors 132 can automatically alter the tilt angle 144 to mitigate permanent reduction in power output of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 described herein. For example, during a hailstorm, the one or more processors can automatically cease tracking solar irradiance 146 and alter the tilt angle 144 to the hail mitigation orientation 224. Thus, instead of impacting the first side 150, energy from hail 220 impact can be absorbed by the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102.

[0050] With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, in another embodiment of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102, the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 can include a hail guard 480 positioned at the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the hail guard 480 can span a thickness 482 between a proximal end 484 and a distal end 486. The proximal end 484 of the hail guard 480 can be positioned closest to the photoactive cells 170. The distal end 486 of the hail guard 480 can demarcate the hail resistant side 152 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102.

[0051] Generally, the hail guard 480 is configured to at least partially absorb the energy of projectiles directed towards the hail resistant side 152. For example, upon impact, the distal end 486 of the hail guard 480 can be configured to deform towards the proximal end 484 of the hail guard 480. The deformation can be plastic or elastic. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the hail guard 480 can comprise a metallic material such as, for example, steel, aluminum, copper, tin, or the like, wood, rubber, and / or composite materials. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail guard 480 can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid polymer such as, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polypropylene, a fiber reinforced polymer, or the like. The hail guard 480 can be attached to other portions of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with fasteners. For example, the hail guard 480 can be attached to a frame 164 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with fasteners, such as one or more of: bolts, clips, screws, spot welds, rivets, tabs, brackets, pins, brads, or clamps. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail guard 480 can be joined to thehail resistant photovoltaic module 102 with adhesive. The hail guard 480 can include deformable or elastic components at attachment points to further absorb impact energy and protect the underlying cells; example deformable components can include spacers, cushioning, springs, or pads. The hail guard 480 can also include animal deterrents, such as spikes, ultrasonic repellers, and / or water sprayers.

[0052] With collective reference to FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the hail guard 480 can comprise a mesh 488 defining a plurality of holes 490. Examples of the mesh 488 can include wire netting, wire-mesh, chicken wire, expanded metal, chain links, and the like. Desirably, since the mesh 488 has the plurality of holes 490, the mesh 488 can be lighter and use less overall material when compared to a non-mesh hail guard.

[0053] The plurality of holes 490 can be arranged in a grid or pattern. In the illustrated example, the plurality of holes 490 are arranged in a rectangular grid, as shown in FIG. 11 A. In other examples, the plurality of holes 490 can be arranged in different patterns, such as a hexagonal pattern, as shown in FIG. 1 IB, or a diamond pattern, as associated with chain-link fencing. Desirably, the plurality of holes 490 can militate against damage from hail by obstructing hail, while also allowing light to pass through. This can also facilitate using the hail guard 480 with a bifacial configuration.

[0054] While still referring to FIG. 11 A, FIG. 1 IB and FIG. 11C, each of the plurality of holes 490 can have a minimum width 492 in a range greater than zero to 20 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 10 cm, in range of 2.0 cm to 9.0 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 7.5 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 6.0 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 5.0 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 4.0 cm, in a range of 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, greater than 3.0 cm, greater than 1.5 cm, greater than 2.0 cm, greater than 3.0 cm, greater than 3.5 cm, greater than 5.0 cm, less than 20.0 cm, less than 15.0 cm, less than 12 cm, less than 10.0 cm, less than 8.0 cm, less than 7.0 cm, less than 6.0 cm, less than 5.0 cm, or 5.08 cm. Desirably, the plurality of holes 490 can mitigate or prevent damage from hail by obstructing hailstones having a diameter larger than the minimum width 492 of one of the plurality of holes 490. Additionally, the mesh 488 can be effective to block, break, or deflect hailstones with a diameter smaller than the minimum width 492 by angling the module relative to the angle of incidence of a hail impact, thus, a mesh having a minimum width 492 larger than an average hailstone diameter can provide effective protection in combination with controlling the tilt angle 144, as shown in FIG. 11C.

[0055] In an example, the mesh 488 can be formed by first members 494 and second members 496. For example, the first members 494 and the second members 496 can be welded, woven, twisted, or otherwise adjoined. As shown in the illustrated example in FIG. 10, thefirst members 494 can be arranged perpendicular to the second members 496 to define the mesh 488. In other examples, the mesh 488 is integrally formed from one material. Example method for forming the mesh can include: blow molding, roto-molding, extrusion, pultrusion, rollforming, and compression molding.

[0056] As described above, the hail guard 480 can comprise a metallic material such as, for example, steel, aluminum, copper, tin, or the like, wood, rubber, and / or composite materials. Alternatively, or additionally, the hail guard 480 can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid polymer such as, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polypropylene, a fiber reinforced polymer, or the like. It can also be desirable to select materials which allow for the hail guard 480 to deform from loads, such as hailstones, while also being stiff enough to mitigate or prevent the hail guard 480 from deforming and contacting the other portions of the photovoltaic module 102. In certain examples, the hail guard 480 or just the mesh 488 of the hail guard 480 has a stiffness greater than 1 GPa, greater than 10 GPa, greater than 100 GPa, greater than 200 GPa, greater than 300 GPa, greater than 400 GPa, greater than 500 GPa, in a range of 70 GPa to 300 GPa, in a range of 100 GPa to 250 GPa, or in a range of 190 GPa to 215 GPa.

[0057] With reference to FIG. 9 A, FIG. 9B, and FIG. 10, the protective layer 162 can have a first surface 161 and a second surface 163. The first surface 161 is adjacent to the photoactive cells 170. The second surface 163 is adjacent to the hail guard 480. The hail guard 480 can be disposed over the second surface 163 of the protective layer 162, as shown in FIG. 9 A and FIG. 9B.

[0058] The hail guard 480 can be disposed at a hail guard offset distance 498a from the second surface 163 of the protective layer 162. Desirably, the combination of the stiffness of the hail guard 480 and the offset distance 498a can mitigate or prevent the hail guard 480 from deforming to the point where the hail guard 480 contacts the protective layer 162. The hail guard offset distance 498a can be in a range greater than zero, greater than 0.5 cm, greater than 1.0 cm, greater than 2.0 cm, greater than 3.0 cm, greater than 4.0 cm, greater than 5.0 cm, greater than 6.0 cm, greater than 7.0 cm, greater than 8.0 cm, greater than 9.0 cm, greater than 10 cm, greater than 15 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 15.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 10.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 9.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 8.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 7.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 6.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 5.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 4.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 3.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 2.0 cm, or 2.54 cm. For a bifacial device, the offset distance 498a can reduce shading of the cells 170 by the hail absorbing member 180 and facilitate diffuse light reaching the cells from the second side 152.

[0059] In certain examples, the hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 can include an optional reinforcing support. The optional reinforcing support can be positioned between the hail guard 480 and the protective layer 162, between the hail guard 480 and the first edge 171, and / or between the hail guard 480 and the second edge 173. The optional reinforcing support can include pads, e.g., rubber pads or silicon pads, contacting the protective layer 162 with a stiffer portion contacting the hail guard 480, positioned at intervals across the protective layer, the first edge 171, and / or the second edge 173. In another example, the optional reinforcing support can include stiff rods underlaying the mesh 488 and crossing the full span of the width or length of the module or a portion thereof.

[0060] With reference to FIG. 10, in another example, a hail guard 480 can partially surround the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. For example, the hail guard 480 can be disposed over the protective layer 162 at the offset distance 496 and disposed over a first edge 171 and a second edge 173 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102 that are perpendicular to the first side 150 and the second side 152, as shown in FIG. 10. The hail guard 480 can be adjacent and contact the first edge 171 and a second edge 173 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102.

[0061] While still referring to FIG. 10, the hail guard 480 can be disposed at a second hail guard offset distance 498b from the first edge 171 and / or the second edge 173 of the hail resistant photovoltaic module 102. The second hail guard offset distance 498b can be in a range greater than zero, greater than 0.5 cm, greater than 1.0 cm, greater than 2.0 cm, greater than 3.0 cm, greater than 4.0 cm, greater than 5.0 cm, greater than 6.0 cm, greater than 7.0 cm, greater than 8.0 cm, greater 9.0 cm, greater than 10.0 cm, greater than 15.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 15.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 10.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 9.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 8.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 7.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 6.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 5.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 4.0, in a range of 0.5 cm to 3.0 cm, in a range of 0.5 cm to 2.0 cm, or 2.54 cm.

[0062] In some examples, hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 can have dimensions greater than about 1.0 m in length and / or width, in a range between 0.5 m to 2.5 m in length and width, or up to about 2.3 m in length and / or width. In an example, a length is in a range of 1.2 m to 2.3 m, and a width is in a range of 0.7 m to 1.6 m. The length and width define a module surface area. The hail resistant photovoltaic modules 102 can have a thickness in a range of 4.0 cm to 28.0 cm, wherein the thickness can optionally include a mounting frame and a module-integrated hail protector. The module-integrated hail protector can comprise at least one of the hail absorbing member 280, 380, or the hail guard 480. In some examples, themodule-integrated hail protector is contiguous with the second surface 163 of protective layer 162. In some examples, the module-integrated hail protector has a surface area substantially the same as a surface area of the second surface 163 of protective layer 162, whereby a ratio of the surface area of the module-integrated hail protector to the surface area of the second surface is about equal, for example: in a range of 0.95 to 1.05, in a range of 0.98 to 1.02, in a range of 0.99 to 1.01, or having a ratio of 1.00. In some examples, the module-integrated hail protector covers a portion of the second surface, and the ratio of the surface area of the module-integrated hail protector to the surface area of the second surface is less than 1, for example: in a range of 0.15 to 0.98, in a range of 0.25 to 0.90 in a range of 0.20 to 0.50, in a range of 0.40 to 0.70, in a range of 0.60 to 0.80, in a range of 0.50 to 0.95, in a range of 0.75 to 0.98, or in a range of 0.85 to 0.99. In some examples, the module-integrated hail protector covers and extends beyond the second surface, and the ratio of the surface area of the module-integrated hail protector to the surface area of the second surface is greater than 1, for example: in a range of 1.01 to 1.40, in a range of 1.02 to 1.30, in a range of 1.01 to 1.25, in a range of 1.02 to 1.25, in a range of 1.01 to 1.20, in a range of 1.02 to 1.15, in a range of 1.01 to 1.10, in a range of 1.01 to 1.08, or in a range of 1.01 to 1.05.

[0063] With reference to FIG. 9B, the photovoltaic modules 102 can further comprise one or more junction boxes 166. The one or more junction boxes 166 can be positioned on the second surface 163 of the protective layer 162. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the one or more junction boxes 166 can be positioned between the hail guard 480 and the protective layer 162. The one or more junction boxes 166 can further comprise an impact cover 168. The impact cover 168 can configured to mitigate or prevent damage from load, such as hailstones. The impact cover 168 can comprise metallic material such as, for example, steel, aluminum, copper, tin, or the like, wood, rubber, and / or composite materials. Alternatively, or additionally, the impact cover 168 can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid polymer such as, for example, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polypropylene, a fiber reinforced polymer, or the like.

[0064] Referring now to collectively to FIG. 12, FIG. 13, and FIG. 14, the array 104 is shielded from hail by a hail guard cover 580. The hail guard cover 580 is not directly attached to the photovoltaic module 102. The structure of the hail guard cover 580 can comprise a hailabsorbing member, as described in FIG. 3, FIG. 5, and FIG. 6, or can comprise a mesh 488 analogous to the structure as described for FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, FIG. 10, FIG. 11 A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 11C. The hail guard cover 580 can comprise the mesh 488 defining a plurality of holes 490. The hail guard cover 580 can be positioned with respect to the photovoltaic modules102 or the array 104. For example, the hail guard cover 580 can be disposed over the array 104 similar to a canopy or a sail shade. In another example the hail guard cover 580 can be positioned between at least a portion of the array and incident hail. In other examples, the hail guard cover 580 can surround the array 104 similar to a cage. The hail guard cover 580 can include a support structure which can support and position the mesh 488 between incoming hail or wind-blow debris and the photovoltaic modules 102. The hail guard cover 580 can prevent or mitigate hail damage for at least the same reasons as the hail guard 480. The hail guard cover 580 can be configured to deform, and the mesh 488 can obstruct, slow, break, or deflect large hailstones.

[0065] The hail guard cover 580 can be disposed at a hail guard cover offset distance 582 from an actuator 142 of the array 104, as shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. The hail guard cover offset distance 582 can be in a range greater than zero, greater than 0.5 m, greater than 1.0 m, greater than 2.0, greater than 3.0 m, in a range of 0.5 m to 4.0 m, in a range of 0.5 m to 3.0 m, in range of 0.5 m to 2.0 m, in a range of 0.5 to 1.0, or in a range of 0.91 m to 1.82 m.

[0066] With reference to FIG. 12, each of the trackers 140 including the actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104 and the hail guard cover 580. The actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104 and the hail guard cover 580 via one or more mounting components and configured to rotate the array 104 in response to signals received from the one or more processors 132. The tracker 140 can be configured for single axis actuation or multi-axis actuation (e.g., dual axis). The actuator 142 can include individual or ganged motor, pneumatic, or other drive mechanisms to rotate the array 104 and the hail guard cover 580. This configuration can facilitate rotating the hail guard cover 580 coordinated with the array 104.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 13, each of the trackers 140 including the actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104. The actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104 via one or more mounting components and configured to rotate the array 104 in response to signals received from the one or more processors 132. The tracker 140 can be configured for single axis actuation or multi-axis actuation (e.g., dual axis). The actuator 142 can include individual or ganged motor, pneumatic, or other drive mechanisms to rotate the array 104. The solar power system 100 can further comprise a hail guard cover tracker 584 including a hail guard cover actuator 586 coupled to the hail guard cover 580. The hail guard cover actuator 586 can be coupled to the hail guard cover 580 via one or more mounting components and configured to rotate the hail guard cover 580 in response to signals received from the one or more processors 132. The hail guard cover tracker 584 can be configured for single axis actuation or multi-axis actuation (e.g., dual axis). The hail guard cover actuator 586 can includeindividual or ganged motor, pneumatic, or other drive mechanisms to rotate hail guard cover 580. Desirably, this configuration can facilitate rotating the hail guard cover 580 and the array 104 independently from each other.

[0068] With reference to FIG. 14, each of the trackers 140 including the actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104. The actuator 142 can be coupled to the array 104 via one or more mounting components and configured to rotate the array 104 in response to signals received from the one or more processors 132. The tracker 140 can be configured for single axis actuation or multi-axis actuation (e.g., dual axis). The actuator 142 can include individual or ganged motor, pneumatic, or other drive mechanisms configured to rotate the array 104. The solar power system 100 further comprises the hail guard cover 580 disposed over the array 104. Desirably, this configuration can facilitate rotating the array 104 while the hail guard cover 580 remains stationary over the array 104.

[0069] Photovoltaic modules are designed to have multiple decades worth of operational life. Modules can be designed to be sufficiently robust to endure harsh outdoor environments, including moderate hailstorms. However, large hailstones can damage photovoltaic devices. Large hail, such as hail larger than 5 cm, can damage glass commonly used as substrates for photovoltaic modules. Portions of the United States of America (e.g., Texas and Oklahoma) commonly experience hailstorms with large hail. Accordingly, a hailstorm can prematurely eliminate decades worth of productively for a photovoltaic module. It should now be understood that the present disclosure can extend the operational lifetime of photovoltaic modules installed in regions susceptible to severe hailstorms.

[0070] According to the embodiments provided herein, a hail resistant photovoltaic module comprises a transparent layer, photoactive cells, a protective layer, and a hail guard. The transparent layer defines a first side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module. The photoactive cells are disposed over the first transparent layer. The protective layer is disposed over the photoactive cells. The protective layer has a first surface adjacent to the photoactive cells and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The hail guard is disposed at an offset distance from the second surface of the protective layer. The hail guard defines a second side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

[0071] According to the embodiments provided herein, a solar power system comprises a photovoltaic module and a hail guard cover. The photovoltaic module includes a transparent layer, photoactive cells, and a protective layer. The photoactive cells are disposed over the first transparent layer. The protective layer is disposed over the photoactive cells. The hail guard cover is disposed at an offset distance from the photovoltaic module.

[0072] According to the embodiments provided herein, a method for hail mitigation comprises activating, during solar tracking, a tracker to alter a tilt angle of a hail resistant photovoltaic module to orient a first side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module towards solar irradiance; receiving hail related data indicative of a hailstorm; and activating the tracker, responsive to the hail related data, to alter the tilt angle to orient a hail resistant side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module to face hail, whereby the hail impacts a hail guard on the hail resistant side or the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

[0073] According to the embodiments provided herein, a method for hail mitigation comprises activating, during solar tracking, a tracker to alter a tilt angle of a hail guard cover away from a first side of a photovoltaic module; receiving hail related data indicative of a hailstorm; and activating the tracker, responsive to the hail related data, to alter the tilt angle to orient the hail guard cover over the first side of the photovoltaic module, whereby the hail impacts the hail guard cover.

[0074] According to the embodiments provided herein, a solar power system comprises a photovoltaic module, a hail guard cover, a first tracker, a second tracker, and one or more processors. The photovoltaic module has a first side and a second side. The first tracker is operable to change a tilt angle of the photovoltaic module. The second tracker is operable to change a tilt angle of the hail guard cover. The one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the first tracker and the second tracker. The one or more processors executes machine readable instructions to: activate, during solar tracking, the first tracker to alter the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module to orient the first side of the photovoltaic module towards solar irradiance; receive hail related data indicative of a hailstorm; activate the second tracker, responsive to the hail related data, to alter the tilt angle of the hail guard cover to orient the hail guard cover over the first side of the photovoltaic module, whereby the hail impacts the hail guard cover.

[0075] According to the embodiments provided herein, a solar power system comprises a photovoltaic module, a hail guard cover, a tracker, and one or more processors. The photovoltaic module having a first side and a second side. The hail guard cover is disposed over the photovoltaic module. The tracker is operable to change a tilt angle of the photovoltaic module. The one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the tracker. The one or more processors executes machine readable instructions to activate, during solar tracking, the first tracker to alter the tilt angle to orient the first side of the photovoltaic towards solar irradiance.

[0076] According to the embodiments provided here, a solar power system comprises a photovoltaic module, a hail guard, a tracker, and one or more processors. The photovoltaic module has a first side and a second side. The hail guard cover is disposed over the photovoltaic module. The tracker is operable to change a tilt angle of the photovoltaic module and the hail guard cover. The one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the tracker. The one or more processors executes machine readable instructions to activate, during solar tracking, the first tracker to alter the tilt angle to orient the first side of the photovoltaic and the hail guard cover towards solar irradiance.

[0077] According to the embodiments provided herein, a solar power system comprises a hail resistant photovoltaic module, a tracker, and one or more processors. The hail resistant photovoltaic module has a light incident side and a hail resistant side. The hail resistant photovoltaic module comprises a hail absorbing member positioned at the hail resistant side of the hail resistant photovoltaic. The tracker is operable to change a tilt angle of the hail resistant photovoltaic module. The one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the tracker. The one or more processors executes machine readable instructions to: activate, during solar tracking, the tracker to alter the tilt angle to orient the light incident side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module towards solar irradiance; receive hail related data indicative of a hailstorm; and activate the tracker, responsive to the hail related data, to alter the tilt angle to orient the hail resistant side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module to face hail, whereby the hail impacts the hail absorbing member on the hail resistant side or the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

[0078] According to the embodiments provided herein, a method for hail mitigation comprises activating, during solar tracking, a tracker to alter a tilt angle of a hail resistant photovoltaic module to orient a light incident side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module towards solar irradiance; receiving hail related data indicative of a hailstorm; and activating the tracker, responsive to the hail related data, to alter the tilt angle to orient a hail resistant side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module to face hail, whereby the hail impacts a hail absorbing member on the hail resistant side or the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

[0079] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A hail resistant photovoltaic module comprising: a transparent layer, wherein the transparent layer defines a first side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module; photoactive cells disposed over the first transparent layer; a protective layer disposed over the photoactive cells, wherein the protective layer has a first surface adjacent to the photoactive cells and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a hail guard disposed at an offset distance from the second surface of the protective layer, wherein the hail guard defines a second side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

2. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail guard comprises a mesh defining a plurality of holes.

3. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 2, wherein the plurality of holes is arranged in a grid.

4. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 2, wherein a minimum width of one of the plurality of holes is in a range of 2.0 cm to 10 cm.

5. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 2, wherein the mesh is formed by first members and second members, and the first members arranged perpendicular to the second members.

6. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, the hail guard is disposed over the second surface of the protective layer.

7. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the offset distance is in a range of 0.5 cm to 9.0 cm.

8. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail resistant photovoltaic module has a first edge perpendicular to the first side and the second side and a second edge perpendicular to the first side, and the hail guard is disposed over the first side and the second side.

9. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail guard is attached to the hail resistant photovoltaic module with a fastener.

10. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail guard is adhered to the hail resistant photovoltaic module with adhesive.

11. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail guard comprises a rigid polymer.

12. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, wherein the hail guard comprises a metal.

13. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 1, further comprising a junction box disposed between the protective layer and the hail guard, wherein the junction box has an impact cover.

14. A solar power system comprising: a photovoltaic module having a transparent layer, photoactive cells disposed over the first transparent layer, and a protective layer disposed over the photoactive cells; and a hail guard cover disposed at an offset distance from the photovoltaic module.

15. The solar power system of claim 14, wherein the hail guard cover comprises a mesh defining a plurality of holes.

16. The solar power system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of holes is arranged in a grid.

17. The solar power system of claim 15, wherein a minimum width of one of the plurality of holes is in a range of 2.0 cm to 10 cm.

18. The solar power system of claim 15, wherein the mesh is formed by first members and second members, and the first members arranged perpendicular to the second members.

19. The solar power system of claim 14, wherein the offset distance is greater than 1 m.

20. The solar power system of claim 14, wherein the hail guard comprises a rigid polymer.

21. The solar power system of claim 14, wherein the hail guard comprises a metal.

22. The solar power system of claim 14, wherein the photovoltaic module further comprises a junction box disposed between the protective layer and the hail guard covering, wherein the junction box has an impact cover.

23. A hail resistant photovoltaic module comprising: a transparent layer, wherein the transparent layer defines a first side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module; photoactive cells disposed over the first transparent layer; a protective layer disposed over the photoactive cells, wherein the protective layer has a first surface adjacent to the photoactive cells and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and a hail guard disposed over the second surface of the protective layer, wherein the hail guard defines a second side of the hail resistant photovoltaic module.

24. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 23, wherein the hail guard is disposed at an offset distance from the second surface of the protective layer.

25. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 3-14 or 23-24, wherein the hail guard comprises a mesh defining a plurality of holes.

26. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 25, wherein the plurality of holes is arranged in a grid.

27. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 25 or 26, wherein a minimum width of one of the plurality of holes is in a range of 2.0 cm to 10 cm.

28. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 2 or 25-27, wherein the mesh is formed by first members and second members, and the first members arranged perpendicular to the second members.

29. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 24, wherein the offset distance is in a range of 0.5 cm to 9.0 cm.

30. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 1-7, 9-13, or 23-29, wherein the hail resistant photovoltaic module has a first edge perpendicular to the first side and the second sideand a second edge perpendicular to the first side, and the hail guard is disposed over the first side and the second side.

31. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 23-30, wherein the hail guard is attached to the hail resistant photovoltaic module with a fastener.

32. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 23-30, wherein the hail guard is adhered to the hail resistant photovoltaic module with adhesive.

33. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 23-32, wherein the hail guard comprises a rigid polymer.

34. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of any of claims 23-33, wherein the hail guard comprises a metal.

35. The hail resistant photovoltaic module of claim 23-34, further comprising ajunction box disposed between the protective layer and the hail guard, wherein the junction box has an impact cover.

36. A solar power system comprising: a photovoltaic module having a transparent layer, photoactive cells disposed over the first transparent layer, and a protective layer disposed over the photoactive cells; and a hail guard cover disposed over the photovoltaic module.

37. The solar power system of claim 36, wherein the hail guard cover is disposed at an offset distance from the photovoltaic module.

38. The solar power system of any of claims 36 or 37, wherein the hail guard cover comprises a mesh defining a plurality of holes.

39. The solar power system of claim 38, wherein the plurality of holes is arranged in a grid.

40. The solar power system of claim 38 or 39, wherein a minimum width of one of the plurality of holes is in a range of 2.0 cm to 10 cm.

41. The solar power system of any of claims 38-40, wherein the mesh is formed by first members and second members, and the first members arranged perpendicular to the second members.

42. The solar power system of claim 37, wherein the offset distance is greater than 1 m.

43. The solar power system of any of claims 36-42, wherein the hail guard comprises a rigid polymer.

44. The solar power system of any of claims 36-42, wherein the hail guard comprises a metal.

45. The solar power system of any of claims 36-44, wherein the photovoltaic module further comprises a junction box disposed between the protective layer and the hail guard covering, wherein the junction box has an impact cover.

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