From keeping plants running in optimum condition, manpower optimization, budget, and spare management for the smooth operation of a plant, to maintaining safety protocols, there are several challenges in solar operations and maintenance (O&M). In this blog, we will take a look at the multi-dimensional nature of these challenges.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is a continuous process that aims at preventing sudden breakdowns and various costs accruing from it. It is carried out systematically, by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and Standard Checklists, which help ensure consistency and quality of work.
Condition Monitoring
A significant change in the condition of the equipment is often clearly visible and can indicate the increased likelihood of breakdown at some point. It is important to repair or replace the equipment in time, especially if it is crucial to the working of the plant.
Corrective Maintenance
Despite all the efforts, some faults might arise in the system, which may need immediate corrective measures. This could include replacement of the faulty equipment or intervention by technical staff to restore its functioning.
O&M Budget
Cost control is an essential part of any solar O&M strategy and must be viewed in a comprehensive way. It is essential to reconcile the interests of the stakeholders with the objectives of controlling costs associated with system maintenance, quality checks, and testing procedures.
Documentation
A complete record of all activities taking place at a solar plant site must be well-documented and available for reference to all stakeholders, to ensure identification and removal of loopholes and procedural inconsistencies.
Spare Management
A formal inventory management system must be in place to keep a record of the type and quantity of spare parts available. These must be stored in an organised way to ensure ease of access during a breakdown.
Skills Training and Development
Working on-site can be full of challenges for which the personnel must be trained in order to increase their capacity across a range of tasks and reduce on-site accidents. This includes the development of technical skills and knowledge of standardized procedures and checklists.
Plant Performance
To keep the plant at peak performance levels, it is essential to take a holistic view across human, technical and environmental dimensions of the plant. This includes functions like periodic module cleaning, vegetation control, spares management, manpower management, quality control, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) monitoring.
Safety
Safety measures while being on-site are essential for both personnel as well as the equipment. Proper safety procedures must be followed and protective gear must be used to prevent any kind of hazard. For assistance to decide on the solar panel that suits your needs the best, feel free to contact us on +919819907445. We would be happy to assist you in finding the best match based on your requirements. As one of India’s best solar companies, having 73 years of market experience, VEMC provides end-to-end solar services to its clients. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and is one of the leading solar EPC companies in India.