SOLAR PANELS KEEP AN EYE ON GLINT AND GLARE

Staff writer

Sep 12, 20221 min read

Global experience shows that sunlight reflecting off solar panels can cause annoying visual discomfort and even hazardous glare to surrounding receptors such as residents, motorists or pilots. Sunlight reflecting off solar panels can be experienced in two forms: glint which is a momentary flash of bright light, and glare - a continuous source of bright light. Both glint and glare can result in an after-image, which is a visual illusion where an image persists after exposure to the original image has ceased. Motorists passing by may be affected, posing a potential traffic hazard – while nearby communities could be disturbed by sunlight reflections.

Although there is generally a high level of public support for renewable energy projects, the growth of solar farms has shown that glint and glare could be significant visual impacts. As such, these aspects have become an essential component of the Visual Impact Assessments that SRK Consulting conducts for Environmental Impact Assessments. Developers need accurate, science-based predictions on how their solar installations might affect the local environment. This includes the project’s precise location, local topography and the height of the mounted panels – as well as the axes and aspect of PV arrays.

Photovoltaic panels in a solar energy installation can be fixed or can rotate on a single or double axis. The position of receptors relative to the solar energy installation is also critical. Typical receptors could include buildings, homes, roads and flight paths, with different points around the project all having to be assessed to understand the potential impact.

Topography is important, as elevated areas around a solar farm could be more exposed to glint and glare.