The UFTM (Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro) Clinical Hospital in Uberaba stood out with a surprising story about its photovoltaic plant.
Installed in 2020, the system, which boasts 510 kWp of power and approximately 1400 modules, was expected to generate annual savings of R$300. However, the results exceeded all expectations, revealing a success story beyond financial figures.
The project involved an investment of R$1,7 million, with the initial expectation that the return would occur in five to six years. However, the plant's impact was much more significant: by August 2023, the savings generated had already exceeded R$1,8 million, reducing the investment's payback period to less than two years.
The plant was designed with a MLPE (module-level power electronics) system, which uses optimizers to ensure each panel operates independently, maximizing energy production even in shady or dirty conditions.
The hospital roof was one of the project's biggest challenges. In traditional systems, a shaded panel affects the entire power generation line, but the MLPE architecture allows each module to operate independently.
The technology allowed the hospital to monitor the performance of each panel individually. If a module developed problems, they could be detected quickly, facilitating maintenance and optimizing operating costs.
The Impact of New Security Rules
Another interesting point in the story is the adaptation of the system to the new fire safety standards, NBR 17193, which was established after the installation of the plant.
The standard requires, among other things, rapid disconnection of voltage to solar panels and protection against arc flash faults, to prevent serious accidents during emergencies.
The technology used at Hospital das Clínicas was already ready to meet these requirements. With Safe DC functionality, the system automatically reduces the voltage of each module to just 1 volt in the event of a power failure or power outage, ensuring safety for both hospital occupants and emergency responders.
Arc flash protection and connector temperature monitoring, included in the system, ensure a superior level of safety, without the need for additional installations or extra costs.
Free energy market
In 2024, the hospital allowed rooftop solar power to replace energy purchased from local distributors, resulting in an even greater reduction in energy costs.
The projected annual savings of R$300 tripled, reaching approximately R$900 per year. In the first month after the migration alone, in December 2024, savings amounted to R$74, a direct reflection of the solar system's efficiency and the more advantageous conditions of the free market.
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