As solar energy infrastructure expands, ensuring it integrates safely with its surroundings is paramount. Fraunhofer Chile has pioneered the development of reflection (glare) studies, a critical assessment designed to evaluate the potential impact of light reflected by photovoltaic plants on sensitive locations like airports and major roadways. By preventing interference with critical infrastructure operations, these studies facilitate a harmonious coexistence between industrial growth and the safety of the surrounding environment.
This specialized capability was born from a unique challenge: the installation of a rooftop photovoltaic system at Santiago International Airport. To guarantee that the plant’s operation would not disrupt air traffic, Fraunhofer Chile’s research engineers set an innovative industry precedent by adapting open-source software for this specific purpose. The methodology has since evolved from analyzing distant plants to conducting precise measurements of light reaching highly critical zones, such as control towers and flight paths during takeoff and landing. By modeling complex variables -including solar orientation, surface optical properties, and specific aircraft trajectories -the team can replicate real-world operating conditions to maximize pilot safety and ensure efficient traffic flow.
The success of that initial airport project sparked a growing demand for this expertise. Today, Fraunhofer Chile applies this rigorous methodology beyond aviation, extending safety assessments to highways and residential areas. This comprehensive approach ensures that the rapid development of photovoltaic energy never comes at the cost of safety for the critical infrastructure that surrounds it.