Our Services
1. PV Module Quality Testing
The Quality testing of PV modules provides the client with confirmation that the module specifications promised by the supplier have been met. This is critical information for operators to ensure that power plant components can produce the estimated power outputs.
Quality Assurance
Baseline measurements of PV modules after transport and before installation to verify product quality.
Failure Analysis
Inspection of PV modules to determine degradation and damage due to extreme weather events. Modules must be removed from racks to test.
Warranty Check
Support for technical due diligence during the sale of an asset or measurements to support a warranty claim.
PVinsight can complete the following tests either on-site at the PV plant or at the fixed laboratory in Gqeberha, South Africa.
Visual Inspection
Inspection of the PV module for defects and damage according to defined criteria.
Insulation Testing
Ensure electrical insulation between the PV circuit and structural elements of the module.
Electroluminescence Imaging
Identification and analysis of potential performance-degrading defects in the PV modules.
Peak Power Measurement
Measures the electrical performance of the PV module by measuring the characteristic current voltage (I-V) curve of the module output using a solar simulator.
Low Irradiance Measurements
To determine the electrical performance of the module with a variable load at 25° C and 200W/m². Measurement of Maximum Power at low irradiance used to monitor module degradation and the effects of PID-shunting are more pronounced at low irradiance.
Wet Leakage Testing
To evaluate the insulation of the module under wet operating conditions and verify that moisture from rain, fog, dew or molten snow does not enter the active parts of the module circuitry, where it might cause corrosion, a ground fault or a safety hazard.
2. Field Inspections
The performance of the installed PV modules has a direct effect on the profitability of the PV installation. Field inspections are vital for both Newly Built and Operational PV plants.
Commissioning Tests
Quality control of PV modules is essential both pre- and post-installation and to ensure the installed system meets the requirements. This data can be used for quality disputes to identify at what stage damage occurred.
Degradation Testing
Tests are required for the assessment of Extreme Weather events like Hail, as well as the Due Diligence process, and PV plant repowering.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Identifying issues that are limiting production.
The Quality testing of PV modules provides the client with confirmation that the module specifications promised by the supplier have been met. This is critical information for operators to ensure that power plant components can produce the estimated power outputs.
Field Visual Inspection
Visual inspection of Modules in-situ to identify defects and damage according to a defined criteria.
Peak Power Measurement of Strings and Modules
The measurement of characteristic current voltage (I-V) curve for individual modules or strings in order to determine the plant performance.
Field Electroluminescence Imaging
EL imaging of modules without removign them from the strings.
Field Electrical Insulation Testing
Measurement of the Insulation Resistance (Riso) of stings in order to determine the safety of the system.
3. Consulting
Our team of PV expert are available to assist on various consulting projects, including PVSyst simulations.
4. Glint and Glare
Reflected sunlight on Solar modules from shiny surfaces can affect the safety and residential amenity in surrounding areas. Glint is a momentary flash of light; it can be experienced by an observer passing a solar panel at speed such as a motorist. Glare a continuous source of excessive brightness. Meaning that observer is stationary and is placed in the path of reflected sunlight from the face of the panel.
New solar project applications may need to be accompanied by a Glint & Glare Impact Assessment Report with specific relevance to aviation & aircraft operations. PVinsight can assist with these reports, and can provide suggestion on Glint and Glare mitigation measures.