The CloudCAM technology allows to predict the output of solar farms 15 minutes ahead of time. A farm in Western-Australia has been equipped with such cameras which is funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency. Power outputs from solar farms decline when clouds pass over so you still rely on backup energy storage to compensate the missing energy output. The unpredictability of solar ouputs makes it difficult to predict prices and can also hinder to bid in electricity markets. The cloud tracking cameras make solar power cheaper and reduce intermittency because they give a picture of solar resources expected in the immediate future. Furthermore it reduces the need for batteries.
The GuardianWhy not share this article?
