Buildings Magazine - November 2017

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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