What includes Operation and Maintenance for Large Scale Solar Power Plants?

 

It is very important to identify the steps involved in the maintenance of a solar power plant as it ensures its smooth operation and functioning. 

How is this maintenance done?

Who are the people involved?

And how can one ensure maximum output from a said large-scale solar power plant? 

To put it simply, the maintenance of a solar plant is majorly handled by the solar developer to ensure that the equipment’s life is maximized. In general, solar power plants do not require high maintenance as they do not have any moving parts, however, preventative maintenance is of utmost importance.

Below, in this article, we take a look at how –

Maintenance of a Large Scale Solar Power Plant

The primary maintenance activity performed for any solar power plant is to keep the surface or the glass dust free. For this, regular inspections and checks need to be performed. 

Cleaning: Panels need to be washed with soft water to keep them dust-free. If they collect too much thick dirt or grime or bird droppings, cold water can be used along with a cleaning sponge to clean the surface. One may also use soft detergents along with water to ensure easy and efficient cleaning. Metal brushes should be avoided at all costs, as they lead to early wearing off of the panel surface. 

Checking for defects: Solar panels need periodic visual inspections to look for any cracks, chips, delamination, water leaks, and discolouration. Whenever a defect is identified, it is noted down in the logbook so that it can be checked for how it is affecting the generation output of the system. If it is detected that the performance of the module is lower than the rated value, then it should be replaced or repaired. 

Structural stability: The mounting frames for the solar module need to be examined to make sure that they are firmly secure and that the mounting bolts are rust-free and sustainable. The junction boxes of the solar panels also require regular inspections to ensure that the wires are not chewed or destroyed by any rodents or insects.

Inverter controller: A dry cloth is used to clean any dust that has been accumulated on the component. After this, a visual inspection is done to ensure that all the LED light indicators are working and the wires leading to and from the device are not loose. Regular self-checks would ensure that the charge controller indicates the system is charging when the sun is shining. 

Wirings: Wire installations need to be checked for any cracks or breaks in the insulation. Panel boxes need to be scrutinized to prevent rodents and insects from making it their home. They should also be checked for any type of corrosion or burning. 

All of the above maintenance checks ensure that you preserve the life of your solar panel.

Sterling and Wilson Solar have experience of 7+ years in O&M Solar Panel Maintenance. SWSL meticulously caring for the useful life of assets, maximizing their profitability, streamlining their performance and availability, and minimizing their consumption and operating costs.