Site 2.57

Site ID
2.57
Health
COD
2017
Nominal Capacity
100 kWp
Average Specific Yield
1195 kWh/kWp
Total Estimated Loss
25.18%
Possible Gain
8% to 11%
CAPEX, OPEX
2.06 ₹/Wp, 0 ₹/Wp/a
Expenditure / Energy
1.2 ₹/kWh to 0.8 ₹/kWh

Abstract

Loosely hanging cables with low bending radius were found. Damaged modules that pose performance and safety threat found on-site. It is recommended to (i) optimize the cable layout, (ii) increase cleaning activity, (iii) replace damaged modules (iv) retrofit the mounting structure, (v) re-sort and re-string the modules, and (vi) install a weather station or at least an irradiation sensor on the module plane. The estimated production boost expected by the retrofitting actions lies between 7.5% and 10.9%.

Image gallery

Main Findings

Poor cable management: Loosely hanging cables with low bending radius. Missing string labelling.
Foreign material remains and scratches found on module glass.
Modules with damaged frame and backsheet found on site.
Inverters fans are running noisy from soiling.
Module misalignment found on several tables.
Screws, bolts and purlins used in the structure are rusted.
Vertical post used in structure bent, contributing to module misalignment.
Multiple table orientations found on site.
Modules in the corner are installed too close to the parapet wall.
Modules with different power class installed in same string.
Structures from the same row are not aligned between tables.
No weather station found on site.
Modules were not soiled due to frequent rains, however module cementing was observed.
IR analysis reveals hot cells from cementing.

Impact on Performance

Cell Cracks
The EL image reveals presence of several cracks, isolated cell parts and dark cells. These defects severely impact system performance and safety.
Estimated Loss
≈ 10%
Underperformance
Based on the IV curve measurements, the estimated underperformance is 10.2% for the measured modules.
Estimated Loss
≈ 10.2%
Near Shading
According to PVsyst simulation, the near shading losses account to 1.53%.
Estimated Loss
≈ 1.53%
Self Shading
Estimated Loss
≈ 3.45%
Total Estimated Energy Loss
≈ 25.18%

Proposed Solutions

Strings, tables, and inverters should have a suitable labelling (UV-resistant).
The cable layout can be optimized; the minimum cable bending radius is 10x the cable diameter.
A more effective cleaning is recommended to address module cementing.
Damaged modules shall be replaced as they pose performance and safety threat.
Inverter fans shall be cleaned more frequently.
A re-sorting shall be conducted to have lower performing modules and modules with same power class in the same string for each case, or at least the same MPPT.
Damaged structure vertical posts shall be replaced to restore the structure functionality. Rusted components shall be replaced if possible. To prevent such problems, metal objects vulnerable to corrosion can be painted with zinc.
If possible, modules in the corner shall be moved away from the parapet wall to facilitate easier O&M access.
If possible, table with higher tilt angle shall be spaced adequately to reduce the effects of shading.
A weather station, or at least an irradiation sensor on the module plane shall be installed.