Supervision of photovoltaic energy storage equipment

What is operation & maintenance (O&M) of photovoltaic systems?

1 Introduction This guide considers Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of photovoltaic (PV) systems with the goal of reducing the cost of O&M and increasing its effectiveness. Reported O&M costs vary widely, and a more standardized approach to planning and delivering O&M can make costs more predictable.

What is a PV system to be maintained?

The definition of the PV system to be maintained shall include PV modules, the support structure, disconnects, inverter(s), monitoring equipment, and all other appurtenances to make the PV system complete, grid- connected, and operational. 104

Why is PV system operations a growing field?

PV system operations is a growing field because increasing PV penetration into the larger utility system, and an emerging market for ancillary services (e.g., dispatch of storage, sourcing reactive power, curtailment of output) require more system interaction on an ongoing basis.

Who is responsible for the safety of a PV system?

The asset owner is ultimately responsible for safety related to a PV system and must meet that responsibility through the specific requirements of O&M service contracts and mitigate risk through accident and liability insurance. O&M of battery systems involves important considerations related to environmental and safety requirements.

Why should you track energy availability in a PV operation contract?

Tracking this availability (or unavailability) provides transparency into the equipment reliability state to all parties involved in an O&M services contract. In most PV operation contracts, energy will be the driving factor of whether the system is operating as expected.

What is PV operations?

PV Operations includes the following five areas: 1. Administration of Operations : Ensures effective implementation and control of O&M services including curation of as-built drawings, equipment inventories, owners and operating manuals, and warranties.