Alterra Power MGMXD

solar energy in the mining business

[materialsgirl]

I remember readu=ing several years ago that a solar panel positioned in California would produce 3.5 times as much electricity as the same panel in North Bay.  Panels and technology are improving but I suspect that the ratio may be the same.

What does this mean for mining?  My interpretation is that there will be a lot of solar electricity for mining but it will vary hugely by location.  In many African countries the cost of diesel generated electricity for miners is ~ 35¢ which is about 4 to 6 times higher than in Quebec, Manitoba, BC or Ontario.  So when compared to diesel generated power in a climate where the sun is intense and shines a lot the economics of solar power will be very attractive,

In Northern Ontario, in Northern Quebec, in Manitoba / Sask or in the Yukon the economics of solar will never be appealing except in extraordinary cases.

Solar power in mining will be attractive based on a comparison on the intensity of the sun on the one hand and the alternative cost of electricity on the other hand.

Main areas of potential appeal in North America would be California, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico perhaps 

mat

[veracruz]

In the north, the sun makes a much larger/ longer arc  in the sky. So, solar panels face it at 90 degrees and track it. Also the North has long summer days with clear skies. As well cold increases energy efficiency. Every  20 degree drop in temperature increases energy production by 10 percent . As well, they can use solar bounce. A simple  example, snow pack increases energy

[veracruz]

Atoms in hot substances like solar panels in California Vibrate (less efficient, or cooling required). These vibrations lessen as climates cool. As these vibrations subside, the electrons relax and transport more of their electrical energy out of the solar cell. For every 20 degree drop in temperature energy production goes up 10%.

[carinthian]

Hi Veracruz! are we talking 20 degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius? thx carinthian

[veracruz]

That would be Celsius. 

[carinthian]

Thx, so we are talking about 15-20% efficency increase between California and Canada.... To be honest I persoanlly am not such a big fan of solar and would prefer if they concentrate on hydro although those things are tougher and more expensive to get done. And I hope we will be getting some info on how the refinancing of the Money for the buy of HS Orka will be done. Generally I accept that as

[veracruz]

Efficiency increase proves on tracking style only, not fixed. For individual assets hydro is boss. But to power a grid we need to diversify as the renewable types compensate each other's weaknesses. Based on company comments, I see Shannon cash flow equalling dividends. And they are ahead of schedule. Then management will reflect on share price and reverse split/ buy back. Time flies.... We