Analysis and monitoring of photovoltaic systems
SUPSI Image Focus
Photovoltaic systems are built to last. However, the performance of a system indicated by the manufacturer does not always turn out to be that achieved in the actual system.
At the root of performance differences can be manufacturing defects, faults, design errors, the impact of weather and climatic conditions and other random factors.
However, it is not easy for the end user to determine the cause that creates differences in the performance of his system, because he has limited means and knowledge and is unable to obtain an accurate measurement of inverter performance.
In this regard, the Photovoltaic System Quality team offers a detailed measurement service that can identify and/or confirm any malfunctions, while also providing analysis tools for preventive system maintenance.
Some of the analysis activities carried out by the Group are:
Furthermore, it must be kept in mind that energy production varies throughout the year, also depending on the type of modules and mounting configuration used. A correct analysis of the operation of a PV system is only possible with an analytical check using a precision data logger (DL) and by measuring the insolation through pyranometers and calibrated reference cells. The temperature of the panels must also be monitored, and in this case precision RTDs can be used. ISAAC, through its dedicated solar energy team, offers a medium- to long-term analytical measurement service on grid-connected stand-alone photovoltaic systems.
Among the parameters that are analysed are:
The lifetime of a photovoltaic system is normally calculated on the basis of the lifetime of its modules. However, the most sensitive element of a grid-connected system is not the module itself, but the electronic and power parts, as well as the surge protection elements.
In the middle of an installation's life, it is often necessary to replace inverters or to carry out repairs or modifications to various electronic parts.
The Institute of Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment also offers a consulting service for the rehabilitation of photovoltaic installations. The analysis can include the optimal re-configuration of the installation and all maintenance work to be carried out in order to achieve a long and effective life of the system.
However, it is not easy for the end user to determine the cause that creates differences in the performance of his system, because he has limited means and knowledge and is unable to obtain an accurate measurement of inverter performance.
In this regard, the Photovoltaic System Quality team offers a detailed measurement service that can identify and/or confirm any malfunctions, while also providing analysis tools for preventive system maintenance.
Some of the analysis activities carried out by the Group are:
- the characteristic I-V measurement of the PV field and extrapolation to STC (Standard Test Condition)
- detailed visual inspection of the photovoltaic installation
- thermographic analysis
- the measurement of instantaneous plant efficiency
- the general control of PV systems
Furthermore, it must be kept in mind that energy production varies throughout the year, also depending on the type of modules and mounting configuration used. A correct analysis of the operation of a PV system is only possible with an analytical check using a precision data logger (DL) and by measuring the insolation through pyranometers and calibrated reference cells. The temperature of the panels must also be monitored, and in this case precision RTDs can be used. ISAAC, through its dedicated solar energy team, offers a medium- to long-term analytical measurement service on grid-connected stand-alone photovoltaic systems.
Among the parameters that are analysed are:
- the determination of the specific output (Yf): Final Yield [kWh/kW].
- the determination of energy yield (PR): Performance Ratio [-].
- analysis of low-radiation behaviour
- any electrical losses in the system
PV plant renovations
The lifetime of a photovoltaic system is normally calculated on the basis of the lifetime of its modules. However, the most sensitive element of a grid-connected system is not the module itself, but the electronic and power parts, as well as the surge protection elements.In the middle of an installation's life, it is often necessary to replace inverters or to carry out repairs or modifications to various electronic parts.
The Institute of Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment also offers a consulting service for the rehabilitation of photovoltaic installations. The analysis can include the optimal re-configuration of the installation and all maintenance work to be carried out in order to achieve a long and effective life of the system.