Maximizing Solar Performance: The Critical Role of Proactive O&M

The Importance of Solar Operations & Maintenance (O&M): Preventing Losses and Maximizing Performance

As solar energy adoption accelerates, photovoltaic (PV) systems have become a key solution for businesses seeking to meet their energy needs while reducing their environmental impact. In 2023, 413 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity was installed globally in 2023, up 58% from the prior year. With solar comprising the vast majority of new generation capacity globally, the solar industry is becoming a vital part of the global energy mix. However, the 2024 Global Solar Report by Raptor Maps revealed a concerning trend—solar PV systems are increasingly underperforming due to equipment issues, resulting in up to $4.6 billion in annual revenue losses. With this expansion comes the growing importance of properly maintaining these systems to ensure they operate at peak performance protecting the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy.

Why Solar Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Matters

When solar systems are installed, there’s an expectation of return on investment (ROI) based on the system's projected energy output over its 25-30-year lifespan. For those adopting solar for environmental reasons, a system’s reduced carbon footprint is also based on expected energy generation.

However, without proper maintenance, PV systems fall short of these expectations. While weather events and natural degradation are accounted for in performance models, other preventable issues can lead to significant losses if left unchecked.

Common Causes of Solar Performance Issues

PV systems are exposed to various environmental and mechanical factors that can reduce their efficiency over time. Common issues include:

·      Panel soiling - dirt, dust, and debris block sunlight, leading to decreased energy production. In areas with high dust or pollution, this can reduce efficiency by 20-30% if not addressed with regular cleaning.

·      Damage during installation - cracked panels or loose connections, may go unnoticed initially.

·      Vegetation - as trees and plants grow, casting shade on the panels, which reduces output unless they are regularly trimmed.

·      Extreme weather - lightning, hail, or high winds, can damage panels or electrical components, making post-storm inspections critical to prevent ongoing performance issues.

·      Microcracks in the panels - often caused by manufacturing defects or debris impacts, may be invisible but gradually worsen over time, further lowering energy output.

·      Electrical failures - blown fuses, faulty connectors or failing inverters, can cause entire sections of the system to stop functioning.

·      Natural degradation of panels - leads to a gradual decline in performance.

The Consequences of Neglecting Solar O&M

Although solar energy is known for its low operational costs, ignoring regular maintenance can turn potential savings into substantial losses. The $4.6 billion of annual loss underscores the real financial risks of neglecting solar O&M. PV systems that are not regularly inspected and maintained can lose anywhere from 5% to 30% of their expected output due to preventable issues.

For solar owners, this means not only reduced energy production but also extended payback periods. Underperforming systems also produce less clean energy, forcing greater reliance on non-renewable sources, undermining the environmental benefits.

Internal Monitoring Challenges

Some businesses opt to monitor their solar systems internally. The staff responsible for monitoring may have other priorities and could eventually stop paying close attention. Moreover, if the person handling the system leaves or changes roles, the task may fall through the cracks, resulting in months or years of unnoticed performance issues.

Most solar installers do not provide ongoing monitoring services, focusing primarily on installation. They typically return only when called for repairs and are not equipped to handle long-term O&M. Additionally, some performance issues are subtle, and may not trigger system alerts going undetected leading to reduced energy production and financial loss.

Performance Analysis: Ensuring Your System Operates as Expected

Having your solar system’s performance analyzed regularly is crucial to ensuring it is operating as expected. A professional performance analysis can compare the actual energy output of the system to its projected performance, identifying any discrepancies that might indicate underlying issues. By having experts evaluate your system, you gain insights into whether your system is delivering the financial returns and environmental benefits it was designed for.

Solar O&M is Key to Maximizing Solar Investments

The financial and environmental benefits of solar PV systems are only realized when those systems operate at their full potential. Regular O&M protects your investment by ensuring peak performance, preventing costly repairs, and maximizing energy output.

Regular performance checks help catch problems early, allowing for timely repairs or adjustments, ultimately maximizing energy output and extending the life of your system. By addressing common issues like soiling, equipment failures, and gradual degradation, solar O&M can prevent billions of dollars in lost revenue each year.