Solar energy harvesting at closed landfills: Energy yield and wind loads on solar panels on top and side slopes

Closed landfills can be potential sites for solar energy harvesting depending on their geographical location. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the energy yield and wind loads on solar panels placed on closed landfills in relation to panel orientation and slope. Analyses were conducted for two case study landfills in South Florida. Energy yields were estimated for flat and tilted panels placed on top and side slopes of landfills. The estimated energy yields of the solar panels ranged from 375 kWh/m2 (flat) to 426 kWh/m2 (facing west). Wind loads on the panels placed on top and side surfaces were estimated using the ASCE 7-05 procedure for monoslope free roofs. The estimated wind pressures ranged between 58 and 44 lb/ft2 for flat and south facing slopes, respectively.

► Solar panels can be installed on top and side slopes of closed landfills.
► Energy yield and wind load analyses were conducted for two landfills in Florida.
► Estimated energy yields ranged from 375 kWh/m2 (flat) to 426 kWh/m2 (facing west).
► The wind forces were 58 for flat and 44 lb/ft2 and for south facing slopes.