Frequently Asked Questions about PV Data Acquisition

Researchers discuss Agrivoltaics at a research site in Massachusetts. Photo by Dennis Schroeder / NREL

Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about solar modules, solar installations, and measuring PV production.

FAQs source: Farmer's Guide to Going Solar

Will solar modules contaminate the soil underneath or around them?

Silicon-based PV cells are the most widespread solar photovoltaic technology used. Research shows that "leaching of trace metals from modules is unlikely to present a significant risk due to the sealed nature of the installed cells."

Some solar modules use cadmium telluride (CdTe). Cadmium compounds are toxic, but studies show that such compounds cannot be emitted from CdTe modules during normal operation or even during fires. Industrial incineration temperatures, which are much higher than grassfires, are required to release the compounds from the modules.

PVDAQ/FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about PV Data Acquisition