Client: SolarEdge Partners
Location: Spain
Project Size: 50 MW Solar Farm
Challenge
SolarEdge Partners, an experienced solar asset management firm, faced declining energy output from a 50 MW solar farm in southern Spain. Routine inspections had failed to identify the root cause, leaving the farm underperforming and jeopardizing financial returns. Additionally, the company needed precise defect documentation to pursue warranty claims for several underperforming panels.
Solution
The team partnered with us to conduct in-situ electroluminescence (EL) inspections, leveraging our mobile EL units for comprehensive field diagnostics. Within a week, the inspection uncovered:
- Microcracks in over 12% of the panels, invisible to standard inspections.
- Potential-induced degradation (PID) hotspots affecting energy output.
- Installation mishandling, resulting in loose connectors and uneven panel mounting.
Detailed EL imaging provided precise defect data that was indispensable for the warranty claims process.
Results
- Increased Energy Output: After replacing and repairing faulty panels, the solar farm experienced a 15% improvement in energy production.
- Reduced Downtime: Identifying defects early minimized maintenance disruptions, ensuring steady output.
- Successful Warranty Claims: Detailed EL reports supported claims for 80% of the defective panels, resulting in significant cost savings.
- Improved Asset ROI: SolarEdge Partners estimated a 20% increase in annual revenue, directly attributed to higher efficiency and reduced losses.