Checklist for Commercial Solar Maintenance:
Why, How & How Often
Many commercial solar panel installations in Australia have been sold with the assumption of “set and forget,” leading to the misconception that once the system is installed, it will function flawlessly for its entire design life. However, proactive maintenance and inspections are critical for the effective and safe operation of commercial solar assets, as recommended by industry bodies like the Clean Energy Council. These inspections should be conducted in accordance with Australian Standards 5033.
Why is Commercial Solar Maintenance Necessary?
Commercial solar panels are exposed to various weather extremes such as rain, hail, heat, wind, and dust, which can degrade material performance over time and create safety issues. While remote monitoring can detect some performance issues, on-site examinations are often necessary to identify problems such as poor cable management, loose cable terminations, inadequate weather protection of components, inverter malfunctions, and cracked or broken panels. These issues can lead to system underperformance, outages, and rapid component degradation. Improperly placed or protected DC switchgear can even cause roof fires. Component failures can result in downtime and onsite hazards, and a malfunctioning inverter can affect the energy production of the entire solar panel installation.
What is the Recommended Servicing Interval for Commercial Solar Panels?
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of commercial solar systems, it is recommended to have them examined at least once a year by a Clean Energy Council-certified technician. Regular maintenance can help identify and address issues such as accumulation of debris, deterioration, corrosion, and wear and tear on solar panels. Cleaning requirements may vary depending on environmental conditions and system design.
What are the Manufacturer's Suggestions?
Leading inverter and module manufacturers worldwide emphasize the importance of “Preventative Maintenance” in addition to solar repairs. This approach goes beyond just cleaning solar panels and includes measures to improve system safety, uptime, and efficiency. Properly maintained solar systems can enhance returns by up to 30% and accelerate the payback of the initial investment, according to SMA.
What Does a Maintenance and Operations Plan Include?
A comprehensive maintenance and operations plan may include electrical checks, cleaning of solar modules, inspection of inverters, protection and isolation devices, fuse enclosures, mounting structures, cables, and terminations. It may also involve verification of warning labels, air filters, heat sinks, and fans to ensure they are clean and free of dust to reduce the risk of fire.
Conclusion
Sunburn Solar, a renewable energy company in Australia, offers cost-effective and cutting-edge products and services for commercial solar panels in Melbourne, Victoria. Regular commercial solar maintenance is crucial for maximizing performance, ensuring safety, and achieving long-term savings on energy costs. Installing a solar system can help businesses reduce operational expenses, secure electricity rates, and gain greater control over their energy consumption.
