Expert Insights: Key Factors to Evaluate During a Solar Site Visit

When visiting a solar site, experts look for several critical factors that can determine the overall success of the installation. These factors range from the physical and technical quality of the system to its output and maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore each of these aspects in detail and provide insights into what an expert considers during a solar site evaluation.

1. Physical Quality:

The first aspect an expert evaluates when visiting a solar site is its physical quality. A well-installed solar system should be clean and organized, with a focus on the following:

• Clean cable routes: Properly organized and secured cables are essential for a safe and efficient solar installation.
• Adequate inverter spacing: Ensuring that inverters are spaced correctly allows for proper hot air flow, which prevents overheating and extends the life of the equipment.
• PV module alignment and direction: Solar panels should be aligned and oriented correctly to maximize sunlight exposure and, in turn, energy production.

2. Technical Quality:

The technical quality of a solar installation refers to the proper sizing and functioning of all equipment on the site. Some key aspects an expert examines include:

• Cable sizing: Cables that are too small for the current they carry can become hot and are at risk of burning. Properly sized cables are crucial for safe and efficient operation.
• Breaker sizing: Circuit breakers must be sized correctly based on the current produced by the inverter to ensure safety and prevent equipment damage.
• Overloaded inverters: An inverter that is consistently overloaded can indicate a poorly designed or installed system.

3. Output:

One of the most straightforward ways to assess the quality of a solar installation is to examine its output. By comparing the actual performance of the system to the expected values in the design document, experts can gauge the effectiveness of the installation. A well-installed solar system should have a performance ratio of at least 70%, meaning that the actual output is no less than 70% of the designed value.

4. Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal performance of a solar system. A poorly maintained site, such as one covered in dust, can negatively impact the system’s output. Experts pay close attention to the cleanliness and overall condition of the solar site to evaluate how well it has been maintained and its potential impact on performance.

Conclusion:

Evaluating a solar site requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of solar system components and their interactions. By examining the physical quality, technical quality, output, and maintenance of the installation, experts can identify potential issues and provide recommendations for improvements. As the solar industry continues to grow, ensuring that solar installations are well-designed, properly installed, and effectively maintained is crucial for the long-term success of renewable energy projects.