EXPERTISE
Field Inspection and Measurements
Performance measurements are conducted in compliance with IEC 62446 and IEC 60891 standards to evaluate the performance of solar power plants.
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I-V Curve (Power) Measurement
Performance evaluations of solar power plants are conducted by examining the current-voltage (I-V) curves of PV modules measured under varying irradiance and temperature conditions. These data are analyzed in compliance with IEC 60891 and IEC 61724 standards, adjusted to standard test conditions. These tests play a critical role in assessing the performance of modules and identifying potential issues.
Performance Analysis with IV Curve Testing
- IV measurements of PV modules are carried out on-site. This test is used to analyze issues such as micro-cracks, PID (Potential Induced Degradation), and LID (Light Induced Degradation) and their impact on PV module power.
- Periodic annual IV measurements are beneficial for monitoring the degradation of modules over time. This helps determine how performance losses affect system efficiency in the long run.
Analyses Possible with IV Testing
- Comparison of manufacturer label values with actual values: The efficiency provided by the modules is compared with the values specified on the manufacturer’s label.
- Polarity/connection errors: Connection errors in PV module strings are identified.
- LID (Light Induced Degradation) analysis: Levels of light-induced degradation in modules are assessed.
- PID (Potential Induced Degradation) analysis: Potential-induced degradation is analyzed to study long-term performance losses in modules.
- Deformations and insulation faults in cables: Any deformation or insulation issues in cables are inspected.
- J-Box and by-pass diode fault analysis: Potential faults in the J-Boxes and by-pass diodes of PV modules are examined.
- Environmental impact analysis: The effects of environmental factors (temperature, humidity, pollution, etc.) on the modules are analyzed.
These tests are critical tools for identifying factors affecting system efficiency, conducting timely maintenance and repairs, and ensuring the long-term functionality of the modules. Annual IV measurements provide a valuable reference for monitoring degradation and minimizing performance losses.
Hot Spot Measurements and Thermographic Inspection Process
To ensure the reliability and performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems after installation, compliance with the testing, inspection, and certification requirements outlined in IEC 62446 and IEC 61215 standards is essential. In this context, hot-spot measurements are conducted to assess the durability, reliability, and performance of PV modules and determine whether they meet international criteria. These tests, performed using drones and handheld thermal cameras, help identify potential issues that may arise during the operational lifespan of the solar power plant.
Hot-Spot Formation and Thermographic Inspection
Hot-spots are areas in PV modules where a temperature increase occurs due to operational or environmental factors. These spots reduce module efficiency and can cause long-term damage.
Analyses that can be performed after thermographic inspections include:
- Identification of cell damage caused by manufacturing, transportation, or installation: Damage to PV modules during production, transport, or installation is detected through temperature variations.
- Hot-spot detection in PV module junction boxes and by-pass diodes: Temperature increases in junction boxes and by-pass diodes are observed, allowing for early detection of potential faults.
- Analysis of environmental impacts: Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and dust accumulation can affect module performance. The effects of these factors are analyzed through thermographic tests.
- Identification of modules or strings with connection errors: Errors in module connections manifest as temperature increases, enabling the detection of faulty connections or strings through this test.
Conclusion and Precautions
Thermographic inspections and hot-spot measurements are critical steps in ensuring the safe operation of PV modules and preventing performance losses. These tests enable timely interventions, guaranteeing the efficiency and ongoing safety of your solar power plant.
Pv Module Analysis with Electroluminescence Imaging
Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is used to detect potential durability, reliability, and performance issues in the microstructures of photovoltaic (PV) modules during production, installation, and operational phases. This method, compliant with the IEC 60904-13 international standard, is highly effective in identifying invisible faults and potential problems. Electroluminescence can be considered as an "X-ray image" of the modules, revealing damages that occur both during manufacturing and the installation of solar power plants.
Analyses Possible with Electroluminescence Imaging:
- Microstructure of PV Modules: The structural integrity of module cells is examined. Electroluminescence helps detect any microstructural damage or alterations within the cells.
- Damages from Manufacturing, Transportation, and Installation: Modules may incur damage during production, transport, or installation. Electroluminescence reveals issues such as cracks, breaks, or deformations resulting from these processes.
- Short Circuit Detection: Electroluminescence can identify short circuits in the cells, which can significantly impact module efficiency and reduce overall system performance.
Purpose and Application of the Test:
- While electroluminescence imaging does not provide direct information about the panel's power, it is used to identify the source of issues detected during I-V curve testing.
- This test detects microstructural defects, cracks, breaks, and short circuits, which are not visible to the naked eye. By identifying potential future performance issues early, necessary maintenance and repairs can be performed promptly.
Electroluminescence imaging is a critical tool for preventive maintenance, ensuring long-term efficiency and system safety in solar power plants. It is applied at various stages to ensure the quality of PV modules and to detect potential damages early. By identifying microcracks and other hidden flaws, EL imaging enhances product quality and helps maintain the reliable operation of solar energy systems over time.
Module Production
During the production phase, it is crucial to ensure that PV modules comply with quality criteria and international standards. Any error during manufacturing can impact the long-term efficiency of the system. Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is used to detect microcracks and other defects in modules before they are packaged.
Objective: To identify potential manufacturing defects early in the production process and ensure the quality control of the modules.
After Shipment
During the transportation of PV modules to the installation site, physical damage may occur. Electroluminescence (EL) imaging can be used to determine whether the modules have been damaged during shipment. This enables the identification of hidden damage caused during transportation.
Objective: To detect potential hidden damages during shipment and identify issues in advance.
Post Installation
During installation, improper practices (such as damage from impacts, incorrect handling, or improper mounting) can cause microstructural degradation in PV modules. Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is used after installation to detect such errors. This step ensures that the modules function properly post-installation.
Objective: To identify structural damages caused by installation errors at an early stage.
After the Storm
Kurulum sırasında hatalı uygulamalar (darbelere bağlı hasar, hatalı taşıma ve montaj) nedeniyle modüllerin mikro yapılarında bozulmalar meydana gelebilir. EL görüntüleme, kurulumdan sonra bu tür hataların tespit edilmesi için kullanılır. Bu aşama, kurulum sonrası modüllerin düzgün çalıştığından emin olmayı sağlar.
Hedef: Kurulum hatalarına bağlı olarak oluşabilecek yapısal hasarları erken aşamada tespit etmek.
Conclusion
Electroluminescence (EL) imaging is a critical tool for detecting potential defects in PV modules at every stage, from production to post-shipment and post-installation processes. This technology enhances the quality and safety of modules while ensuring the system operates efficiently and reliably over the long term.
Insulation Tests
Insulation resistance testing is a critical step in ensuring the safety and efficiency of solar energy systems. Conducted in accordance with international standards such as IEC 61730 and IEC 60904-1, this test guarantees the safe operation of photovoltaic (PV) systems.
PV Module Insulation Standard: IEC 61730
IEC 61730 establishes the electrical safety requirements for PV modules. This standard verifies the insulation properties of modules to ensure their safe operation.
Scope of IEC 61730:
- Insulation Tests:
The insulation resistance of modules must meet specific thresholds to ensure safety. - High Voltage Tests:
Modules must withstand voltages up to 1,500V DC. These tests evaluate the durability of module and system insulation. - Grounding Safety:
The insulation must provide robust protection against grounding system faults, mitigating potential electrical hazards.
Insulation Resistance Testing During Commissioning:
During the commissioning phase or in operational solar power plants, a maximum system voltage of 1,500V is applied to PV modules, and the module-to-ground insulation resistance is measured. The goal is to ensure electrical safety and identify potential hazards early.
Importance of Insulation Resistance Testing:
- Detection of Leakage Currents:
The test identifies leakage currents, which can cause inverter shutdowns and reduce system efficiency. Leakage currents also pose significant risks to human and environmental safety. - Human and Environmental Safety:
The test ensures human safety by detecting insulation issues between modules, which could lead to electric shocks or fire risks, and prevents environmental damage. - Identification of Installation and Wiring Damage:
Damage caused during installation or wiring, such as deformities in connectors, is identified. This ensures the system operates safely. - High Voltage Insulation Test:
Applying 1,500V DC during testing measures the insulation resistance under high voltage conditions, verifying the system’s ability to operate safely at maximum voltage levels.
Conclusion
Insulation resistance testing is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of solar power plants. Early detection of insulation faults guarantees long-term safe operation. This test protects human health, environmental safety, and system performance, making it a vital step in solar energy system management.
Soil Continuity Measurement
Grounding in solar power plants and other electrical facilities plays a critical role in ensuring electrical safety and the secure operation of the system. Grounding systems are vital for protecting people from electric shocks and safeguarding equipment from overcurrents and lightning strikes. Reliable grounding connections are fundamental to the proper functioning and safety of the system.
The Importance of Grounding:
- Leakage Current Protection:
Electrical faults or insulation failures can result in leakage currents. These currents are safely directed to the ground through the grounding system, preventing hazardous situations and mitigating risks such as fires and electric shocks. - Lightning Protection:
Solar power plants, often located in open areas, are at risk of lightning strikes. A proper grounding system channels lightning safely into the ground, protecting the system from damage. This is especially critical for safeguarding equipment and reducing fire risks, as well as preventing electrical faults. - Protection of Electrical Equipment:
Grounding systems shield equipment from high voltage surges. Sensitive devices like inverters, converters, and other components are protected from overvoltage and low insulation risks, ensuring the system’s efficiency and longevity. - Compliance with Legal and Standards Requirements:
National and international electrical safety standards mandate the correct implementation of grounding systems. Standards like IEC 60364 and IEC 61730 provide essential guidelines for safe grounding practices, ensuring legal compliance and a secure operating environment.
Continuity and Safety of Grounding:
Proper design and regular maintenance of the grounding system are crucial for the system’s safe and efficient operation. Reliable and continuous grounding connections play a critical role in preventing safety risks during faults or hazardous situations. Poor or faulty grounding can lead to significant safety hazards and major system failures.
Grounding Implementation Steps:
- Site Evaluation:
The area where the grounding system will be installed is assessed for factors such as soil resistance and underground water levels to design an effective grounding system. - Grounding Connections:
Grounding electrodes and connectors are installed using appropriate materials and must comply with safety standards. - Monitoring and Maintenance:
Grounding systems should be periodically inspected. Issues like loosened connections, wear, or corrosion must be identified and resolved through regular inspections.
Conclusion
The continuity and proper implementation of grounding systems in solar power plants are essential for both safety and performance. Grounding is a critical factor in preventing electrical hazards, mitigating lightning damage, and protecting electrical equipment. Implementing a reliable grounding system in compliance with necessary standards is indispensable for ensuring the smooth operation of the system and the safety of investors and users.
Project Design and Production Simulation
Evaluating the performance of solar power plants is a critical step in understanding their efficiency, production, and potential issues. The following steps outline the process for measuring plant performance and assessing energy production:
- Collection of Irradiance and Temperature Data:
Environmental data such as irradiance, temperature, and weather conditions are collected to estimate the plant's potential energy production. These data serve as the foundation for the plant's "ideal" production profile. - Simulation and Energy Production Calculation:
Simulations are performed using PAN files provided by the manufacturer, which include panel efficiency, voltage, current, and other technical specifications. By combining these simulations with irradiance and temperature data, the theoretical energy production is calculated. - Comparison with Actual Energy Production:
The theoretical production calculated through simulations is compared to the actual energy produced by the plant. Real production data is obtained from inverters and energy monitoring systems. This comparison provides valuable insights into the plant's efficiency. - Analysis of Losses:
System losses (transformer losses, inverter losses, cable losses, etc.) are analyzed to explain discrepancies between actual and simulated production. These losses are key factors affecting plant efficiency and can lead to performance degradation. - Performance Profile Generation:
Using the gathered data, a comprehensive performance profile of the plant is created. This profile highlights the plant's operational health and production capacity efficiency. - Conclusions and Performance Evaluation:
Differences between potential and actual production are analyzed. These differences may stem from system faults, panel degradation, or environmental factors. Performance analysis provides critical insights for investors and guidance for potential improvements.
Results
The evaluation process yields the following key insights:
- Expected Energy Production: The theoretical energy output the plant should generate.
- Actual Energy Production: The actual energy output of the plant.
- Performance Analysis: Detailed analysis of plant efficiency, losses, and production capacity.
This process objectively assesses the performance of the solar power plant, identifying potential issues such as insufficient efficiency, equipment failures, or other system problems. The insights gained are critical for understanding how efficiently the plant operates and for taking corrective actions where necessary.
Preventing Fires and Security Risks and Optimizing Performance
Güneş enerjisi sistemleri ticari çatılarda maliyet etkin enerji üretimi sağlar, ancak bu tür kurulumlar belirli güvenlik risklerini de beraberinde getirebilir. Küçük bileşenlerdeki sorunlar bile büyük yangın risklerine yol açabilir. Neyse ki, bu tür sorunlar genellikle basit çözümlerle giderilebilir. Bu yazıda, ticari ölçekli güneş enerjisi sistemlerinde karşılaşılan yaygın güvenlik riskleri ve bu riskleri nasıl yönetebileceğiniz ele alınmaktadır.
Güneş Enerjisi Sistemlerindeki Yaygın Güvenlik Riskleri
a. Konektörler ve Kabloların Sorunları
- Risk: Gevşek veya hatalı bağlantılar, aşırı ısınma ve yangın riski oluşturabilir.
- Çözüm: Bağlantılar doğru şekilde yapılmalı ve kablolar dış etmenlerden korunmalıdır. Kaliteli malzemeler kullanarak güvenlik sağlanabilir.
b. Yetersiz veya Zayıf Yalıtım
- Risk: Elektriksel hatalar ve kısa devreler yangın riskini artırabilir.
- Çözüm: Tüm bileşenlerin doğru şekilde izole edilmesi gereklidir. Düzenli izolasyon testleri yapılmalıdır.
c. İnverter Arızaları
- Risk: Aşırı ısınma veya elektronik arızalar yangın riskini artırabilir.
- Çözüm: İnverterler için soğutma sistemleri kurulmalı ve periyodik bakımlar yapılmalıdır.
Risklerin Erken Tespiti ve Çözülmesi
a. Performans İzleme Sistemleri:
- Çözüm: Gerçek zamanlı izleme sistemleri, sistemdeki anormallikleri erken tespit ederek güvenliği sağlar. Uzaktan izleme ve alarm sistemleri kurulmalıdır.
b. Düzenli Bakım ve Kontroller:
- Çözüm: Yıllık bakım, zayıf noktaları belirler. Kablolar, konnektörler ve inverterler gibi kritik bileşenlerin düzenli olarak gözden geçirilmesi gerekir.
Önceden Alınacak Güvenlik Önlemleri ve Tasarruf Sağlama
a. Yüksek Kaliteli ve Sertifikalı Ekipman Kullanımı:
- Çözüm: Sertifikalı malzemeler, yangın güvenliği ve elektriksel güvenlik sağlar. Bu, uzun vadede bakım maliyetlerini düşürür.
b. Yangın Güvenliği ve Koruma:
- Çözüm: Yangın algılama sistemleri ve söndürme ekipmanları, yangın durumlarında hızlı müdahale edilmesini sağlar.
c. Güvenlik Protokollerinin Uygulanması:
- Çözüm: Çalışanlara güvenlik eğitimi verilmesi, acil durumlara hazırlıklı olmalarını sağlar. Acil durum planları ve tatbikatlar gereklidir.
Maliyet Tasarrufu ve İtibar Koruma
a. Erken Tespit ve Çözümle Tasarruf Sağlama:
- Çözüm: Güvenlik risklerini zamanında tespit etmek, itibar kaybı, zarar ve yasal ücretlerden tasarruf sağlar.
Sonuç
Ticari ölçekli çatı üzeri güneş enerjisi sistemlerinde güvenlik risklerinin yönetilmesi oldukça basittir. Kapsamlı izleme sistemleri, kaliteli ekipman kullanımı, düzenli bakım ve güvenlik önlemleri ile bu riskler minimize edilebilir. Proaktif yaklaşım benimseyerek, sistemin verimliliğini artırabilir, uzun ömrünü sağlayabilir ve olası zararlardan korunabilirsiniz. Güneş enerjisi yatırımlarınızda güvenlik ve verimlilik ön planda olmalıdır.
Comprehensive Third Party Due Diligence Inspections of PV Rooftop Solar Sites
Common safety risks in solar energy installations include inconsistent setups, incorrect wiring, and incompatible O&M components. Addressing these risks effectively requires the support of experienced third-party experts. RENWORLD provides critical inspections to identify and resolve safety and performance risks in commercial rooftop installations.
Services Offered by RENWORLD:
- Risk Assessment and Critical Inspections: Proactively identifying safety vulnerabilities and offering solutions.
- Expert Guidance and Testing: Testing system components to enhance efficiency and ensure safe operation.
- Proactive Solutions: Providing recommendations to eliminate safety and performance risks.
These inspections ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity while offering cost savings and protecting reputations. Professional guidance is essential to keep your solar energy system operating safely and effectively.
PV Roof Safety: Proactive Risk Identification and Best Practices
In solar energy installations, common safety risks include inconsistent installation, incorrect wiring, and incompatible O&M components. Waiting for thermal events to occur often leads to high costs, reputational damage, and potential legal or insurance complications. To prevent these risks, proactive safety inspections are crucial for ensuring system safety and avoiding potential disasters.
RENWORLD’s PV Roof Safety and Assessment Inspections help identify potential safety risks and enhance the security and efficiency of solar energy systems. These inspections include:
Comprehensive Audits:
- On-site continuous safety audits identify potential risks at every stage of the system and review system performance.
Issue Listings and Inspection Reports:
- Problems identified during inspections are detailed in reports, including their location and risk levels, enabling early identification of potential hazards.
I-V Curve Monitoring:
- Performance monitoring evaluates system efficiency, highlighting whether the system is operating optimally and identifying issues at an early stage.
Electroluminescence (EL) Testing:
- Hidden defects such as microcracks in modules are detected using EL testing, a vital tool for ensuring panel longevity.
Visual Field Safety and System Testing:
- The overall system is visually inspected, and all components are thoroughly tested to check for any physical damage.
SOP Review:
- The procedures of installation and O&M teams are reviewed to verify that installation and maintenance processes are being conducted safely and correctly.
Third-Party Expert Support:
- Independent solar energy experts provide professional support to evaluate all safety risks for commercial and building owners.
These inspections proactively detect fire and other safety risks, enhancing security and optimizing performance. RENWORLD ensures solar energy systems operate safely and efficiently, minimizing costs and risks for both business owners and users.
RENWORLD Services Include:
- Risk Assessment and Critical Audits: Identifying and addressing safety vulnerabilities proactively.
- Expert Guidance and Testing: Testing system components to improve efficiency and ensure safe operation.
- Proactive Solutions: Providing recommendations to eliminate safety and performance risks.
These inspections ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity while offering cost savings and reputation protection. Professional guidance is essential to keep your solar energy system operating securely and effectively.
Emergency Support and Retrospective Analysis and Reporting After Thermal Events
Güneş enerjisi sistemlerinde, termal olaylar genellikle istenmeyen ve tehlikeli durumlardır. Ancak böyle bir durum yaşandığında, durumu doğru değerlendirebilmek ve etkili bir müdahalede bulunmak için sahada deneyimli profesyonellerin olması kritik önem taşır. RENWORLD, termal olay yaşayan güneş enerjisi santrallerine aynı gün destek sağlayarak olaya müdahale eder.
RENWORLD’ün sunduğu Termal Olay ve Acil Durum Müdahalesi şu hizmetleri içerir:
Kök Neden Araştırma Desteği:
- Termal olayın temel nedenlerini belirleyerek, benzer olayların gelecekte tekrar yaşanmasını engellemeye yönelik çözümler geliştirilir. Bu süreç, olayın kökenini anlamak ve sistemdeki olası zayıf noktaları tespit etmek için büyük önem taşır.
Üçüncü Taraf Uzman Tanıklık Desteği:
- Sigorta şirketlerinin talepleri doğrultusunda, bağımsız bir uzman tanık olarak analiz ve raporlama yapılır. Bu sayede sigorta süreci hızlandırılır ve şeffaf bir şekilde değerlendirilir.
Tam PV Çatı Güvenliği ve Durum Tespiti Hizmetleri:
- Termal olay sonrası, sistemin güvenliği sağlanarak kapsamlı bir güvenlik ve performans denetimi yapılır. Bu denetimler, olası risklerin ortadan kaldırılmasını ve sistemin sorunsuz bir şekilde tekrar çalışmaya başlamasını sağlar.
Bu hizmetler sayesinde:
- Güneş enerjisi sisteminin güvenli bir şekilde kapatılması sağlanır.
- Termal olayların ardından hızlı bir şekilde bağımsız raporlamalar yapılır.
- Güvenlik ve sigorta süreçleri hızlandırılır ve yönetilir.
RENWORLD, termal olaylarla ilgili tüm süreci profesyonel bir şekilde yöneterek hem güvenliği hem de sistemin performansını yeniden sağlamak adına önemli bir destek sunmaktadır.
