According to one study, US solar installations are expected to reach 38 GWdc in 2024. All of this solar capacity needs not only to be built but also commissioned according to standards that continue to be more stringent as time progresses. To help meet this challenge, we would like to present some of the best commissioning practices to ensure that your project meets expectations and becomes a valuable asset for its owners.
Table of Contents
1. Proactive Planning & Testing
The most successful commissioning procedures begin during the planning and pre-installation phases of the project. It is critical to include testing and verification processes in the installation timeline to ensure that they are performed at the most appropriate times. For example, conducting insulation resistance testing of conductors is best done after these conductors have been pulled through all conduits or racking systems but before being connected to panels and other equipment. This must be accomplished using quality measuring tools that have the correct ratings for the type of system you are working on to achieve safety and quality standards. Another important aspect is understanding all the commissioning requirements from the start, including details outlined in the project contract, utility specifications, and equipment manufacturers’ instructions.
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A Proven Roadmap for Successfully Implementing Drones in Solar.
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2. Stay on Top of Community Concerns
It’s crucial to remember that many of our projects become part of the communities where they are located. Consequently, neighbors, town council members, and local AHJ’s will continue to observe and be impacted by solar projects long after the installers have left. Developers and installers should maintain positive relationships and open communication with all stakeholders. For instance, encountering a situation where a town board is displeased because the installed racking is 2 feet taller than expected is highly undesirable. Better to avoid this scenario by staying in contact with interested parties and keeping them abreast of changes.
3. Drone Thermography Scanning & Inspection
I-V curve tracing stands as a crucial, industry-recognized step in commissioning large solar systems to ensure equipment performs as expected and warranted by the manufacturer. Another effective method to verify the condition of a system is by using drone thermography. While discovering under-producing strings is helpful, reliance solely on I-V curve tracing can lead to extensive man-hours spent dismantling system components until flaws are uncovered. On the other hand, a professional drone service with thermal imagery can spot issues like malfunctioning diodes on panels, poor connections that are overheating, and bad solar cells. This imagery can unveil details not readily apparent in a trace or visual inspection. With a comprehensive drone survey, installers can deliver a system not only functioning properly, but instill confidence in asset owners regarding long-term functionality.
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4. Establish Baseline Production Expectations
One of the most critical objectives is to determine the baseline for expected production from the project just built. During the project design phase, production expectations are set based on various factors, including manufacturers’ specifications, expected solar availability, and losses inherent to any electrical system. While these projections may appear promising on paper, actual construction can introduce changes, such as terrain affecting the array azimuth and conduit runs needing to go in different locations causing changes in wire resistance. A critical aspect of successful commissioning is measuring and recording these changes. Failing to establish a realistic baseline for production before project handoff can lead to disagreements and possible legal action.
5. Effective Documentation & Photos
Change is inevitable. Maintaining a set of red-line or as-built drawings throughout the installation phase is invaluable to ensure that all of these changes are properly accounted for. Additionally, documenting the installation phases with photos is essential. Drone imagery can provide a comprehensive view of site progress throughout the project, serving as valuable evidence of adherence to environmental protection plans upon completion. Construction management software, such as Procore or Buildertrend for example, can also help to accomplish this and keep all relevant information in one place. When decisions are made either in the office or in the field, it’s imperative that all stakeholders have access to up-to-date information. Critical details can be lost in email inboxes or text messages, only to resurface when it’s too late. A system owner deserves to know what they are owning and handing over all relevant documentation should be the standard practice.
Preparing For Energization: Drone Inspection & Testing Services
The solar industry has grown tremendously over the past decades and, thankfully, so has the level of quality in construction. It is vital for the industry and the public in general that solar projects deliver the reliable energy they promise. By following these 5 solar commissioning best practices, we can all have a part in ensuring that these systems continue to produce as expected for their lifespans.
At The Drone Life, we provide comprehensive and tailored aerial solutions for asset owners, EPC’s, and O&M’s. Our team of experts has extensive experience in all aspects of solar and thermography, allowing for reassurance during the commissioning process. Our pilots are FAA licensed and use the most advanced drone technology available for each project. Ensure your system isn’t suffering from underlying issues by scheduling a free consultation with one of our experts today.
What's included in YOUR GUIDE...
Techniques for Exposing Warrantiable Items on Your PV Sites.
A Proven Roadmap for Successfully Implementing Drones in Solar.
Strategies for Identifying DC Losses and Avoiding Downtime.
