PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE
From reactive to predictive: The future of PV plant maintenance
Predictive maintenance of PV (photovoltaic) parks is a modern approach to optimizing the performance, reliability, and lifespan of solar assets. Instead of relying only on corrective maintenance (fixing equipment after it fails) or preventive maintenance (scheduled servicing), predictive maintenance uses data-driven insights to anticipate failures before they occur.
OUR CONCEPT
Predictive maintenance combines real-time monitoring, historical data, and advanced analytics (AI/ML, statistical models) to detect early signs of anomalies in PV components such as inverters, modules, transformers, and cabling. The goal is to intervene just in time, avoiding costly downtime and reducing unnecessary servicing.
CORE TECHNOLOGIES WE USE
SCADA & IoT Sensors: Monitor voltage, current, temperature, irradiance, and module performance.
Thermography (drones or fixed cameras): Detect hotspots, faulty connections, or defective panels.
IV Curve Tracing: Identifies degraded strings or hidden defects.
Machine Learning Algorithms: Analyze production vs. expected yield (based on weather/irradiance data) to flag underperformance.
Condition Monitoring Systems: For inverters, bearings in trackers, or transformers.
YOUR BENEFITS ARE
Higher Availability: Reduces unplanned downtime and keeps the park producing optimally.
Lower O&M Costs: Limits unnecessary scheduled maintenance and extends component lifespans.
Early Fault Detection: Catches small issues (like string underperformance or micro-cracks in panels) before they escalate.
Optimized Asset Value: Improves long-term performance, which is critical for investors and lenders.
Regulatory & Warranty Compliance: Detailed monitoring data helps with claims and audits.
TYPICAL CASES OF PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE
Inverter health prediction: Detecting fan failures, capacitor wear, or software errors.
Panel degradation: Identifying modules with accelerated aging or hotspots.
Tracker/Mechanical systems: Monitoring motors, bearings, or alignment issues.
Grid interface: Anticipating transformer overheating or protection relay issues.