Solar photovoltaic systems have transitioned well beyond small, obscure projects into massive operations in the United States. Investment has grown. Returns are starting
to come back on initial investments – in some cases, within just
a couple of years.
Often overlooked in influencing the bottom line for PV sys-
tems are the day-to-day operation and maintenance costs. O&M
costs vary widely
depending on the
market segment and
its unique variables,
making the analysis
of risk and return by
investors that much
murkier.
A new best practices guide from the
National Renewable
Energy Laboratory
(NREL) recommends
tried-and-true strategies for PV system
management to
reduce O&M costs,
improve transparency of PV assets for
investors and rating
agencies and lower
transaction costs.
Checklists in the
guide help users take steps to improve their O&M practices.
Also featured are key recommendations for PV operations and
maintenance. NREL suggests the following considerations for PV
O&M:
n Make a plan on paper for proactive O&M, rather than reacting
to problems on the fly.
n Benchmark performance indicators to mark real improve-
ment, reduce costs and maximize performance.
n Develop a strategy and budget to be able to withstand unex-
pected expenses and reduce downtime, such as a line of cred-
it, reserve account or a fund specifically developed for repair.
n Consider lifecycle issues during system design and equipment
selection, such as ease of operations (including automation),
preventive maintenance requirements, reliability and failure
rates, and end-of-life issues like component recycling and haz-
ardous material disposal.
n Take advantage of technological developments applicable to
your PV system, such as software for data analytics, remote
diagnostics, asset management, remote imaging and module-
level power electronics.
A Guide to Photovoltaic
System Management
SMART O&M FOR SOLAR POWER
NR
E
L
THESE SOLAR PANELS could use
a cleaning and a more proactive
maintenance strategy. NREL's new
best practices guide covers how to
reduce O&M costs while maximizing PV performance.
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