SolarPower Europe has released the 6th annual edition of its O&M best practices guide for the solar industry
This updated version highlights upcoming technology trends in this space as digital trends evolve
New chapters touch upon electrical safety, common tests and inspections, and a sustainable EoL process for solar panels
European solar PV lobby association SolarPower Europe (SPE) has updated its best practices report on solar PV plant operation and maintenance (O&M) function. SPE says the updated report factors in times when service providers face growing pressure to increase efficiency while reducing human intervention.
Titled Operation & Maintenance: Best Practice Guidelines Version 6.0, the report contains updated chapters on solar power plant maintenance, innovation and trends, and data management for O&M service providers.
Additionally, the 6th edition includes new chapters on electrical safety, common tests and inspections, and recommendations on sustainable end-of-life (EoL) process for solar panels after repowering or revamping a project.
Among the key trends that the report factors in is related to the use of data-driven techniques, industry 4.0 solutions and robotics that are increasingly being used by O&M service providers to streamline operations.
The Innovation and Trends chapter in the updated version now covers emerging technology solutions, some of which it says are close to mainstream adoption. A drone in a box system, for instance, has an autonomous drone stored in a weatherproof docking station. This box allows frequent programmed flights that can track plant growth around the panels while also optimizing O&M efficiency of large-scale solar farms.
Yet another upcoming trend is the rise of virtual reality smart glasses. Engineers can connect with a desktop supervisor for real-time guidance using audio, video, and holograms for maintenance instructions using these glasses.
Relevant for all system sizes, these guidelines are aimed to be used as a key tool for O&M service providers, investors, financiers, asset owners and managers, monitoring toll providers, technical consultants, and all interested stakeholders in Europe and beyond.
Another chapter on electrical safety practices seeks to help companies identify skills and gaps among solar workers.
SPE CEO Walburga Hemetsberger believes, “These guidelines will ensure that the sector installs solar systems that foster growth, strengthen trust, and accelerate the solar revolution across Europe.”
The complete report can be downloaded for free on SPE’s website.