Introduction
Many businesses invest heavily in solar PV systems, yet underestimate the importance of ongoing operation and maintenance (O&M). Without a proactive maintenance strategy, energy production drops significantly—and that translates directly into lost savings and lower ROI.
The Performance Hit Without O&M
- Major System Issues Are Common
A HelioVolta survey of 60,000 commercial PV systems found 62% had major or critical issues, affecting performance and safety - Energy Recovery Through Optimized O&M
Studies show that improved O&M strategies can recover about 5.27% of lost energy annually in large-scale systems - Soiling-Induced Losses Are Substantial
Globally, dust and debris cause 3–4% annual energy loss, with overall soiling costs reaching billions across PV fleets
What a Robust O&M Plan Should Include
- Routine Inspections: Check panels, inverters, wiring, mounts
- Preventive Maintenance: Diagnosing faults before they worsen
- Corrective Maintenance: Replace failing parts, tighten loose hardware
The ROI of O&M
Recovering just 5% of energy through effective O&M on a commercial 100 kW system could add thousands in annual savings. That extra revenue often outweighs the cost of the maintenance itself.
Why i2 Energy?
i2 Energy’s O&M solutions go beyond the basics:
- Intelligent monitoring—using alerts that highlight real issues
- Scheduled maintenance and quick response to performance issues
- Detailed performance reports for clear transparency and compliance
Conclusion
Maintaining your solar PV system isn't optional; it’s essential. With over half of systems experiencing critical faults, 5%+ recoverable energy, and 3–4% losses from soiling, a smart O&M plan is a small investment with clear ROI.
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