The position and angle of fixed photovoltaic panels make a big difference to the performance and return on investment of a power plant. The best way for prospecting and performance measurement is by measuring solar radiation with both horizontal AND tilted pyranometers. Kipp & Zonen now offers an accessory to tilt a CMP pyranometer to your preferred angle; the Adjustable Tilt CMP Mounting Kit.

A horizontally mounted pyranometer measures the global short-wave
radiation from the sun and sky in a way that is easily comparable with other
sites and with solar energy database information. However, for fixed angle (non-tracking)
PV panels it is important to know the energy available within the ‘view’ of the
panel. This ‘tilted global radiation’ is measured using a pyranometer inclined
at the same angle as the panel. The new Adjustable Tilt CMP Mounting Kit allows
a CMP series pyranometer of Kipp & Zonen to be positioned at that correct
angle.

The Adjustable Tilt CMP Mounting Kit can be fixed to a horizontal
surface and has a clear scale in degrees, and a secure locking device, for easy
adjustment of the angle of a pyranometer between 0° and 90° solar zenith angle.

Gengenbach Messtechnik, our German distributor, was the first to
purchase the Adjustable Tilt CMP Mounting Kit for its customers. Gengenbach says:
“Having many years of experience in the renewable energy sector we are
continually trying to further support our customers, for example by improving
the possibilities of monitoring the output of solar power installations. In
this regard we have noticed that many customers had trouble fixing and
adjusting their pyranometers to the exact angle of their solar panels. Our
joined observation has inspired Kipp & Zonen to develop a solution and we
are convinced that our customers will be pleased with it. The first units have
now been installed and the initial response has been very positive.” 

For more information go to www.kippzonen.com.