PERFORMANCE AND OPERATION OF THE SOUTHERN NEVADA WATER AUTHORITY HIGH CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC PLANT FOR THE LAST 800 DAYS

The Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) obtained six of the Amonix, Inc. multi-junction Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) systems in 2009. A description of the CPV systems, plant layout, and operating description is given. Data showing the power and that the systems have generated over 1,200 MWh of grid energy during the last 33 months are presented in the paper. An estimate is given of the net annual energy generated based upon the last 33 months of daily energy performance. Data is also presented showing the daily peak power divided by peak DNI and the energy performance during this period. The effect of shading is discussed and data are presented showing its effects on the annual field performance. Data are also given on the operating reliability and the long-term performance of the plant. A discussion and pictures are given of how the terrain is returning to its natural state and how the habitat has accepted the CPV systems.