Frost heave can drastically affect a solar project’s life span. When water freezes in subsurface soils, it forms ice lenses that shift and move upward. The movement of this ice causes racking systems and piles to deflect, with costly consequences such as cracked modules and damaged string and ground wiring. Extensive replacement and repairs will be required to bring the system back into operation.
Deploying solar as a viable energy source in frigid climates presents challenges that are not present when developing solar installations in more temperate climates. The tough environmental conditions impose a steep learning curve.