Feasibility study on the replacement of copper conductors with copper-cladsteel conductors in photovoltaic plants

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21712/lajer.2025.v12.n2.p19-27

Keywords:

Copper-clad steel conductor, sustainability,, photovoltaic power plant,, electrical conductivity.

Abstract

This study examines the technical and economic feasibility of replacing copper conductors with copper-clad steel conductors in the grounding systems of a commercial-scale photovoltaic plant. A literature review was conducted to identify existing applications, followed by an analysis of data from a photovoltaic complex where copper grounding conductors and rods were replaced by copper-clad steel. Results show that the substitution is feasible, maintaining grounding efficiency within regulatory standards, despite higher electrical resistivity. The change also results in cost reduction, increased mechanical strength, and lower risk of material theft, factors that support sustainability and operational safety. Further research is recommended on long-term performance and durability in different soil conditions. The findings suggest that copper-clad steel conductors are a promising alternative for large-scale photovoltaic applications, contributing to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.

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Author Biographies

  • Vinicius Maschio Minosso, Universidade do Contestado

    Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Contestado (UNC).

  • Tiago Volnei Picolotto, Universidade do Contestado

    Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the University of West Santa Catarina (UNOESC), with a postgraduate specialization in Civil Construction Engineering from the same institution (2015). Served as a professor at the University of Contestado (UNC) during the research period.

  • Paulo Reis Junior , Universidade do Contestado

    Professional Master's in Civil, Sanitary, and Environmental Engineering from the University of Contestado (UNC), Concórdia, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

  • Luana Cechin, Universidade do Contestado

    Master's and Ph.D. from the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR), Curitiba Campus, in Civil Engineering, with a research focus on Construction Materials and Components. Professor at the University of Contestado (UNC) in the Professional Master's Program in Civil, Sanitary, and Environmental Engineering (PMPECSA).

  • Mari Aurora Favero Reis, Universidade do Contestado

    Ph.D. in Science and Mathematics Education from the Lutheran University of Brazil (2019). Professor in the Graduate Program in Productive Systems (PPGSP - UNIPLAC, UNC, UNESC, and UNIVILLE) and in the Professional Master's Program in Civil, Sanitary, and Environmental Engineering (PMPECSA) at the University of Contestado (UNC).

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Published

08/04/2025

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Engenharias

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Copyright (c) 2025 Latin American Journal of Energy Research

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How to Cite

Minosso, V.M. et al. (2025) “Feasibility study on the replacement of copper conductors with copper-cladsteel conductors in photovoltaic plants”, Latin American Journal of Energy Research, 12(2), pp. 19–27. doi:10.21712/lajer.2025.v12.n2.p19-27.