Łódź – inspection of photovoltaic installation. Province Lodz – Review of photovoltaic installation of 20 kWp.
After seven years of using a 20 kWp photovoltaic system, the owner of the system commissioned us for a detailed technical review. The system was built with 60 monocrystalline panels of 335 Wp each, by LONGi Solar, which are known for their high efficiency and durability. The whole system was managed by an SMA Sunny Tripower 20000TL inverter, which should ensure reliable operation and good compatibility with large photovoltaic systems.
We first checked the installation visually – the panels were free of cracks or obvious damage, and their placement on the roof met all standards. However, analysis of the production data indicated a clear drop in system efficiency. However, the installation’s performance clearly deviated from predictions, which raised suspicions about one section of the installation.
Łódź – inspection of photovoltaic installation – measurements
Detailed measurements taken on site showed that one of the three panel strings had stopped working. After verifying the wiring, we determined that the fault lay in a damaged wire in the section leading to the inverter. The cause could have been years of exposure to changing weather conditions – rain, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. The MC4 connector, which connected the wires in this string, had visible signs of damage, which interrupted the flow of current.
After fixing the problem with the cable and replacing the connector, the string regained full operation. To prevent similar failures in the future, we thoroughly inspected all MC4 connectors in the installation and properly protected them from moisture.
The next step in the inspection of the photovoltaic installation in the village of Lodz, was the inspection of the SMA Sunny Tripower inverter. The unit was operating properly. However, the inverter’s temperature sensor indicated that the unit was operating at a higher than optimal temperature during the summer months. Therefore, after cleaning the ventilation grille and making sure there were no obstructions to the airflow, the problem was solved.
A 7-year-old photovoltaic installation – what condition is it in?
The condition of the LONGi Solar panels was assessed as very good, despite seven years of operation. The power drop was within the manufacturer’s declared tolerance. During the inspection, however, we noted some micro-damage to the glass coating in one module, which may have been the result of a hailstorm. We marked the damaged panel for replacement to prevent further complications.
A review of the installation confirmed that regular inspections are essential to quickly detect and fix faults. In this case, a problem with a non-functioning string reduced the efficiency of the entire system by about 30%, which could translate into significant financial losses. With the repair and maintenance of the system, the operation of the entire photovoltaic system returned to normal.
Łódź – review of photovoltaic installation – SUMMARY:
Location: voivodship Lodz, Lodz
PV data: 20 kWp photovoltaic system – rooftop installation.
Description: more than 7 years old photovoltaic installation – not working string in the installation.
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