Pole-mounted power generation systems, structures and processes

摘要

Solar power systems and structures are mountable to a power distribution structure, e.g. a power pole or tower, which supports alternating current (AC) power transmission lines. An exemplary power generation structure is fixedly attached to and extends from the power distribution structure, and comprises a mounting rack. A solar array, comprising at least one solar panel, is affixed to the mounting rack. A DC to AC invertor is connected between the DC outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines. The length of the solar array is generally in alignment with the power distribution structure, and the width of the solar array is greater than half the circumference of the power distribution structure. The mounting rack and solar array may preferably be rotatable, such as based on any of location, time of day, or available light.

主权项

1. A system, comprising:
alternating current (AC) power transmission lines that are connected to a power grid; a power distribution structure for supporting the power transmission lines, wherein the power distribution structure has a defined axis and a defined circumference; a mounting structure that is attached to the power distribution structure, wherein the mounting structure extends from the power distribution structure and comprises a mounting rack; a solar array comprising at least one solar panel that is affixed to the mounting rack, and DC outputs extending from the solar array, wherein the solar array defines a rectangle having a defined length and width; and an DC to AC invertor connected between the DC outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines; wherein the length of the solar array is generally aligned with the defined axis of the power distribution structure, and wherein the width of the solar array is greater than half the circumference of the power distribution structure.