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Solar dirt or debris is removed and highlight any physical damage in the system. The availability of data-driven insights ensures timely maintenance actions, thereby extending the system’ s operational life and optimizing financial returns. By leveraging this data, repairs are optimized and planned for off-peak times to reduce disruptions.
To optimize solar PV systems, asset owners must remotely monitor their systems to always ensure enhanced performance and maintenance.
Consequences of neglecting maintenance
Neglecting solar maintenance results in expensive long-term issues which would have otherwise been easily prevented. Long-term complications include cases of accumulated dirt and debris on panels which reduce sunlight absorption, diminishing energy output. Without regular checks, panels are bound to degrade at an accelerated rate, resulting in a shortened lifespan.
Unchecked electrical connections may corrode over time, leading to inefficiencies or system failures. Inverters, which are critical for converting DC to AC power, can malfunction without periodic checks, resulting in significant downtime. As a result, inverters would eventually fail to convert electricity efficiently leading to energy loss or even potential system shutdowns.
Furthermore, undetected issues can void manufacturer warranties, leading to increased repair costs. Collectively, these problems not only decrease the system’ s efficiency and lifespan but also erode the financial benefits initially anticipated from the asset owner’ s investment in solar.
Solar’ s ongoing role
Solar energy is essential in the global energy transition and continues to grow rapidly, reflective of its popularity due to reliability and affordability. According to SolarPower Europe’ s
For the first time, solar power generated more electricity than coal across the EU
annual EU Market Outlook for Solar Power in 2024, the EU added a record 65.5 GW of new solar capacity, bringing the cumulative total to 338 GW. For the first time, solar power generated more electricity than coal across the EU, contributing 11 percent to the electricity mix compared to coal’ s ten percent.
Projections suggest the EU is on track to reach 400 GW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2025 and 750 GW by 2030. According to the International Energy Agency( IEA), in its Sustainable Development Scenario( SDS), solar PV is expected to contribute around 20 percent of global electricity generation by 2040.
Without proper maintenance, solar cannot reach its maximum potential and will result in loss of both energy and investment. Companies and landlords relying on solar PV must prioritise regular and cost-effective maintenance practices to ensure solar remains reliable and safe. Without careful operation and maintenance of solar PV systems, asset owners are compromising safety and leaving money on the table, delaying a worthwhile return on their investment. ■
Anthony Maguire longevity-power. com
As Managing Director at Longevity Power, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, Anthony Maguire develops customized renewable energy strategies that help businesses navigate the complexities of the global energy transition. Longevity Power offers strategic advisory, project management, and full turnkey services for both onsite and offsite projects, including electric vehicle charging.
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