Photovoltaic systems (PV systems) are generally extremely low-maintenance and have a long service life. Nevertheless, the Maintenance of PV systems essential for them to work efficiently and reliably. They convert sunlight into electrical energy and thus make a decisive contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Investing in PV systems is an important step towards renewable energy. It enables companies and even entire communities to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and become less dependent on traditional energy sources. The maintenance of a PV system always ensures maximum energy yield. In addition, it also plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and cost-effectiveness of the system.
From the inspection and Cleaning the modules to checking the electronics and safety systems, there are numerous aspects that need to be considered when maintaining PV systems. Well-performed maintenance ensures maximum power generation, extends the service life of the systems and minimizes unplanned downtime.
Importance of PV system maintenance
While the cleaning of solar modules helps to maintain efficiency, the maintenance of PV systems is primarily aimed at identifying and repairing defects. For commercial photovoltaic systems, this is mandatory after three or five years. During maintenance, potential defects or damage can be detected at an early stage. This makes it possible to carry out repairs in good time before the problems worsen and cause major downtime. In this way, all safety guidelines and regulations of the PV system as well as the requirements of a PV insurance policy can also be complied with. This reduces the risk of accidents and protects both system operators and technicians from danger. It also extends the service life of the entire system and complies with the warranty conditions of the component manufacturers. Regular maintenance enables operators to increase the efficiency of the system. It also reduces stress and wear on individual components.
Recommended annual maintenance measures
All commercial photovoltaic systems from CUBE CONCEPTS are equipped with a Remote monitoring system equipped. It reacts immediately to incoming error messages and a drop in output. Nevertheless, an annual visual inspection and maintenance of a PV system on site by a specialist company is recommended. This involves checking the AC system on the AC side, including the protective and equipotential bonding conductors and the sub-distribution boards. This also includes checking the control cabinets and inverters to ensure that they are working efficiently. On the DC side, all strings, cable routes, plug connections, DC distributors (SSM/SMB), surge arresters and main switches are checked. The main focus here is on preventing potential power losses and detecting traces of arcing. In addition, the module brackets, lightning protection and PV modules are checked for hotspots or mechanical damage. For example, defective cells can be replaced with new, more efficient modules.
Measurement control obligation according to DIN EN 62446-1 (VDE 0126-23-1)
In addition to the recommended visual inspection, grid-connected commercial photovoltaic systems must be inspected every three to five years in accordance with BetrSichV, DGVU V3 and DIN VDE 0105-100. This has also been recommended by the Association of German Insurers (VdS), for example, in its guideline VdS 3145 is recommended and must be carried out in accordance with DIN EN 62446 (VDE 0126-23-1). All AC circuits are tested in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-600 and the low-resistance connections of protective and equipotential bonding conductors as well as the insulation resistances are measured and a complete functional test is carried out. The detailed check also includes a measurement of the entire direct current system for continuity, polarity, insulation resistance, open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current. The functions of all switching and control devices as well as a test of all protective devices in the event of a power failure and their correct restart are also part of the inspection. Finally, all inverters are also tested in accordance with the manufacturer's prescribed test procedure. The PV system's regulation unit is checked and all measurement and test results are documented in accordance with the VDE 0126-23 standard.
Costs & benefits of PV system maintenance
Photovoltaic systems have a long service life, which can be extended by regular maintenance. Service lives of more than 30 years are easily achievable. Over a period of 20 years, experience has shown that maintenance costs amount to a maximum of 1.5 % of the original investment. Regular inspections, cleaning and maintenance measures keep the PV system in optimum condition. This leads to higher yields and an overall sustainable use of solar energy. Investing in professional maintenance is therefore a worthwhile decision in order to fully exploit the benefits of solar energy and contribute to reducing emissions and protecting the environment.