How is the operation and maintenance for a solar power system done?
Solar power systems are capable of providing extremely efficient power generation at affordable costs for a variety of electrical needs in industrial, commercial, and residential locations. However, for this service to be at its optimal performance in the long term, every solar power system requires an equally efficient operation and maintenance (o&M) services. For that matter, the lifespan of all solar power stations especially depends on the maintenance of the equipment and infrastructure.
There are several steps and actions involved in the operation and maintenance of a solar power system which all work towards ensuring little to damage or depreciation of the unit. The O&M services of a solar power plant are most commonly and preferably defined before the construction of the project. There are quite a few third-party companies that can be assigned to perform O&M services. These teams feature field-service engineers and technicians who are dedicated and qualified to ensure that problems are prevented and there are no future issues. These maintenance contracts should ideally be tailored to the specific needs and goals of that particular project. This includes, and is not limited to, repairs, replacements, adjustments, cleaning, and lubrication. All of these actions serve towards minimal risk or damage and are even known to optimize performance that is 10 to 30% better than others.
Following are the main activities carried out under the operation and maintenance of a solar power system:
REMOTE MONITORING
Every system needs to be under constant supervision to track the performance and detect or predict breakdowns. This function can either be carried out at the same location or remotely where all the data is fed through the inverter or other specified equipment like meters and probes.
SITE VISITS
Physically checking the components of the solar power system is also crucial in the operating and maintenance process. The check includes everything from the solar panels, mounting system, inverter, and transformers, to the cables and cabling connector.
CLEANING & SERVICING
This step should be carried out most often for effective O&M including fortnightly cleaning of the solar panel modules along with monthly servicing of the inverter. The transformer also needs to be checked for different temperature parameters and oil levels while being cleant every six months.
ENVIRONMENT CONTROL
Close attention must be paid to protecting the system from external elements like disruption by animal life, strong weather conditions, water collection on roofs, accessibility to every component, etc.
There are also other precautionary steps that occur in the solar power system O&M process. It includes management of inventory for replacement or repair, supervision, monitoring different functions through signals and messages, among other aspects. Overall, the end-to-end operation and maintenance of a solar power system, once executed efficiently, can guarantee superior performance and an excellent lifespan.
