Tag: Peru

  • Y-clevis eye: Strengthening Solar Grids in Peru

    Solar trackers ensure maximum energy output

    Gonvarri Solar Steel, a Spanish solar racking solutions’ manufacturer, bagged a deal to supply 396 MWac/472 MWdc of its hardware to a subsidiary of Spain’s Enhol Group for a project in Peru. The solar trackers will be crucial in the development of the largest photovoltaic (PV) complex in Peru and South America. The construction of the PV park is underway and will provide clean energy to over 230,000 households in northern Peru. These tracking systems will support over 740,000 modules at the solar park in La Joya, Southern Peru. The solar farm is expected to generate 1.2 TWh of electricity annually. Gonvarri Solar has been delivering its tracking systems for projects in the Peruvian market since 2014. It has also delivered a total of 500 MW of solar trackers, establishing itself as a key player in the energy sector. Y-clevis eye connect the torque tube to the drive systems.

    A torque tube is the rotating structural component. A high-quality Y-clevis eye allows the tracker to pivot and follow the sun’s movement and maximize energy capture. It provides a hinged joint and allows the torque Peru’s solar farms need robust components due to wind loads, dust, and thermal expansion. The Y-clevis eye helps distribute mechanical forces evenly and prevent premature wear. It is made from galvanized steel or stainless steel to withstand harsh conditions. A Y-clevis eye ensures smooth, reliable movement and reduces downtime and maintenance in remote solar installations.

    Solar trackers and Y-clevis eye in Peru’s solar farms

    A Y-clevis eye is a U-shaped or Y-shaped mechanical connector that attaches to a pin or rod. It allows for pivoting or rotational movement. The clevis eye’s design permits the pivoting motion necessary for trackers to adjust the angle of solar panels throughout the day. By reducing mechanical stress and friction, the clevis eye increases the system’s operational life and reduces maintenance. Its durability reduces downtime and maintenance costs, which is crucial for solar farms. This makes them essential components in supporting Peru’s broader transition to renewable energy and carbon reduction targets. Here are the roles of Y-clevis eye in solar trackers and solar farm projects in Peru.

    Y-clevis eye permits motion for trackers to adjust the angle of solar panels
    1. Structural connection and load transfer—the Y-clevis eye links actuator rods to torque tubes or rotating frames. It helps transfer mechanical force from the actuator to rotate or tilt solar panels.
    2. Durability – Y-clevis eye is often made of galvanized or stainless steel to resist corrosion and maintain structural integrity.
    3. Alignment and tracking accuracy—the clevis eye supports the tracker’s ability to maintain precise solar alignment. This is crucial for optimizing energy harvest throughout the day.
    4. Ease of installation and maintenance—The clevis-pin design allows for fast assembly, disassembly, or component replacement. This helps improve installation efficiency in remote or large-scale Peruvian solar projects.
    5. Vibration dampening and operational safety—the Y-clevis eye can accommodate limited angular misalignments and minor mechanical play. This helps absorb stresses caused by wind gusts or seismic activity.

    Installation of insulator ties for solar project development in Peru

    Peru’s solar farms depend on using insulator ties to maximize energy generation while ensuring system safety and longevity. It therefore demands proper installation to prevent power losses, minimize degradation, and optimize performance in Peru’s high-irradiance and high-altitude. Insulator ties are crucial in electricity output as they prevent potential induced degradation, reduce leakage currents, and enhance bifacial panel performance. Use of insulator ties in solar farms boosts output by 2-5%, reduces corrosion risks, and lowers O&M costs. For instance, the Gonvarri solar steel’s 396 MW project used advanced polymer insulator ties integrated into their tracker design. They ensure compliance with Peru’s grid codes while maximizing return on investment for developers. Y-clevis eye supports the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of solar energy infrastructure. The following are the key installation practices for optimal performance in Peru’s solar industry.

    • Material selection—materials like fiberglass-reinforced polymers resist UV, humidity, and salt corrosion. Ceramic insulators serve in high-voltage applications or regions with extreme temperature swings.
    • Proper mounting techniques—insulator ties are installed between the solar module clamps and the torque tube to prevent electrical contact. They ensure no conductive path exists between panels and the tracker structure. Other techniques include rail-based systems and grounding continuity checks.
    • Seismic and wind load considerations—Peru is prone to earthquakes and high winds. The insulator ties used must withstand mechanical stress without cracking and maintain isolation under movement.
  • Pole Bands Power Growth in Peru’s Zelestra PPA Deal

    Solar PV installation

    Zelestra and Celepsa, Peru’s electricity supplier, have signed a long-term agreement to purchase solar PV power. The PPA will increase Zelestra’s contractual portfolio to more than 530 MW and enable the construction of a 238 MW solar PV plant in Peru. The contract also includes a global renewable energy certification, which confirms that the energy is renewable. In 2024, Zelestra began construction of a 300 MW solar PV plant, which it expects to be operational in the next years. The company specializes in developing, commercializing, building, and operating utility-scale renewable energy projects. Zelestra will provide Celepsa with around 450 GWh of renewable electricity. This will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promote socio-economic development through job creation related to the construction and operation of the solar plant. Pole bands is a metal clamp that secures the solar racking structure to the foundation poles.

    The pole band provides stability, alignment, and load distribution throughout the solar array. Solar panels are mounted on racking systems supported by poles pushed into the ground. Pole bands enable for adjustment in the racking system to accommodate slopes and ensure wind resistance. This is critical for Peru’s solar farms, which are located in places with strong winds, seismic activity, and uneven terrain. High-quality pole bands made of high-quality materials help to avoid rust and increase system life. Prefabricated pole bands accelerate building of Zelestra’s 238 MWdc facility in Peru. The bands decrease labor costs while ensuring uniformity across thousands of piles. They also play an important role in the infrastructure that transports electrical energy from panels to the grid.

    Building utility-scale solar photovoltaic farms in Peru using pole bands

    In solar PV systems, mounting structures are stabilized and secured with pole bands, which are metal straps. They are necessary to guarantee that poles stay securely fastened in seismically active areas. The yearly goal of Zelestra’s solar PVs is to provide 450 GWh of renewable energy. This necessitates the use of superior pole bands to guarantee dependable infrastructure. Pole bands serve the following purposes in the construction of utility-scale solar PV farms in Peru.

    Pole bands provide extra support to mounting structures
    1. Structural support for mounting systems—pole bands contribute to the resilience of solar installations by providing extra support to mounting structures. They function on racking systems supported by poles driven into the ground for stability. Pole bands ensure stability and load distribution across the solar array.
    2. Corrosion resistance for longevity—pole bands are mostly from galvanized steel or aluminum to prevent rust and extend system life. This is crucial for solar farms in Peru’s coastal or arid regions that face salt spray or humidity.
    3. Adaptation to challenging terrain—Peru’s solar farms often face high winds, seismic activity, and uneven terrain. High-quality pole bands allow adjustability in the racking system to accommodate slopes and ensure wind resistance.
    4. Ease of installation—the use of prefabricated pole bands speeds up construction for large projects. They help reduce labor costs and ensure uniformity across poles.
    5. Alignment and efficiency—properly secured poles ensure that solar panels maintain optimal alignment. This aids in maximizing sunlight capture and energy generation.

    Possible effects of Zelestra and Celepsa’s PPA on Peru’s energy industry

    A significant milestone for Peru’s developing energy industry is the PPA between Zelestra and Celepsa for a 238 MWdc solar PV plant. The collaboration marks a change in the nation’s energy production, trade, and consumption patterns while simultaneously advancing national environmental goals. Every year, 450 GWh of sustainable solar energy is introduced by the PPA. It lessens reliance on fossil fuels and fluctuating water levels. This is because a larger proportion of solar energy improves national energy security and lessens dependency on energy imports. The effects of the PPA on Peru’s energy sector are as covered below.

    • Decarbonization goals—the solar PV project supports Peru’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. Solar energy replaces conventional energy sources to reduce carbon footprint.
    • Grid stability and modernization—large-scale solar projects encourage modernization of the national grid. It introduces smarter energy distribution and opens the door for battery storage and microgrid integration.
    • Investment in climate—the PPA encourages foreign direct investment in Peru’s energy sector. It also sets a precedent for future PPAs that could attract global developers looking for stable emerging markets.
    • Economic development—the project offers jobs in construction and operation of utility-scale PV farms. This project stimulates local supply chains for equipment and services.
  • Energy News Weekly Digest – April 28-1, 2025

    Download clamps, ensuring safe LNG transfer.

    floating vessel for natural gas liquefaction

    YPF, in collaboration with Shell, has opted for floating liquefied natural gas vessels over traditional onshore plants to expedite LNG exports from the Vaca Muerta shale formation.

    The adoption of small-scale, modular FLNG units allows for scalable production and reduced initial investment.

    Exporting gas pipelines are repurposed to supply FLNG units, reducing the need for new infrastructure. The vessels provide the flexibility to capitalize on seasonal export opportunities and respond swiftly to global market demands.

    Downlead clamps secure vertical downcomer pipes, easing the safe transfer of cryogenic LNG from topside liquefaction units to storage tanks.

    The clamps are designed to accommodate thermal contraction and expansion to prevent pipe damage due to temperature fluctuations.

    Downlead clamps absorb mechanical stresses from vessel movements and protect cables and pipes from fatigue and abrasion.

    The implementation of cryogenic transfer technologies ensures efficient and safe LNG handling between FLNG units and carriers.

    Read More

    #DownleadClamps #LNGExport #ArgentinaEnergy #VacaMuerta #YPF #Shell #CryogenicTransfer #EnergyInfrastructure

    Earth anchors powering new tech in Argentina mining

    Argentina's energy and mining

    Argentina is advancing at least 11 large-scale mining and energy projects, aiming to boost exports of lithium, copper, gold, silver, and natural gas.

    Earth anchors are vital for stabilizing mining operations in challenging terrains. They support equipment, reinforce open-pit walls, and secure infrastructure against environmental hazards.

    The anchors provide foundation stability for solar farms and wind turbines to support Argentina’s clean energy initiatives.

    The adoption of smart anchors equipped with sensors allows for real-time monitoring of stress and corrosion. This enhances safety and maintenance efficiency in Argentina.

    Read More

    #ArgentinaMining #EarthAnchors #RenewableEnergy #InfrastructureStability #SmartMining #CleanEnergy

    Earth anchors strengthening Argentina’s mining infrastructure amidst expansion

    fossil fuel and renewable energy mining

    Argentina is undertaking significant reforms to revitalize its energy and mining sectors with at least 11 major projects in the pipeline. The initiative aims to elevate the country’s status in the global energy and mining industries.

    Earth anchors are essential in stabilizing and securing mining equipment and infrastructure in challenging terrains.

    Their applications include slope stabilization, equipment support security, tailing dam security, environmental protection, and cost efficiency.

    Earth anchors are also crucial in stabilizing foundations for renewable energy installations like solar farms and wind turbines to ensure their resilience in remote and unstable regions.

    Innovations such as smart anchors equipped with sensors are being introduced to enable real-time monitoring of stress and corrosion. This enhances safety and maintenance efficiency in Argentina.

    Read More

    #ArgentinaMining #EarthAnchors #RenewableEnergy #MiningInfrastructure #GeotechnicalEngineering #SustainableMining