Pvsi NC Ii CBLM Core Competency 5 Perfor PV Systems Testing and Commissioning

COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS
SECTOR : CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

QUALIFICATION : PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM ISNTALLATION NC -II
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PERFORM PV SYSTEM TESTING AND COMMISSIONING
MODULE TITLE : PERFORMING PV SYSTEM TESTING AND
COMMISSIONING
TESDA PROVINCIAL TRAINING CENTER ROSARIO
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Book Cover
Table of Contents………………………………………………………..i
Module Content…………………………………………………………..ii
Technical Terms………………………………………………….
How to Use This Learning Guide………………………………….
Competency Summary…………………………………………………
LO1. Perform Pre-flight Check…………………………………….
Learning Experiences ………………………………………….
Information Sheet No. 6.1-1
Drones…………………………………………………………
Self-Check No. 6.1-1……………………………………………….
Answer Key No.6.1-1……………………………………………
Information Sheet No.6.1-2
Pre-Flight Activities/Checklist…………………………………….
Self-Check No. 6.1-2……………………………………………..
Answer Key No.6.1-2………………………
LO2 Perform Flight Operation………………………………….
Learning Experiences………………………………………………..
Information Sheet No. 6.2-1
Flight Pattern……………………………………………………….
Self- Check No. 6.2-1…………………………………….
Answer Key No. 6.2-1…………………………………………..…….
Task Sheet No. 6.2-1……………………………..
Performance Criteria No. 6.2-1………………………………………….
Information sheet No. 6.2-2
Flight Operations…………………………………………………….
Self-Check No.6.2-2…………………………………….
Answer Key No. 6.2-2.………………………………….
Task Sheet No.6.2-2……………………………………….
Performance Criteria No.6.2-2……………………….
References…………………………………………………………..
GLOSSARY
A
absorber — In a photovoltaic device, the material that readily absorbs photons
to generate charge carriers
AC —alternating current.
AIC — amperage interrupt capability.
Alternating Current (AC) — A type of electrical current, the direction of which
is reversed at regular intervals or cycles. In the United States, the
standard is 120 reversals or 60 cycles per second. Electricity
transmission networks use AC because voltage can be controlled with
relative ease.
Ambient Temperature — The temperature of the surrounding area.
Ampere (amp) — A unit of electrical current or rate of flow of electrons. One
volt across one ohm of resistance causes a current flow of one ampere.
Ampere-Hour (Ah/AH) — A measure of the flow of current (in amperes) over
one hour; used to measure battery capacity.
Ampere Hour Meter — An instrument that monitors current with time. The
indication is the product of current (in amperes) and time (in hours).
Ancillary Services — Services that assist the grid operator in maintaining
system balance. These include regulation and the contingency reserves:
spinning, non-spinning, and in some regions, supplemental operating
reserve.
Angle of Incidence — The angle that a ray of sun makes with a line
perpendicular to the surface. For example, a surface that directly faces
the sun has a solar angle of incidence of zero, but if the surface is parallel
to the sun (for example, sunrise striking a horizontal rooftop), the angle of
incidence is 90°.
Annual Solar Savings — The annual solar savings of a solar building is the
energy savings attributable to a solar feature relative to the energy
requirements of a non-solar building.
Anode — The positive electrode in an electrochemical cell (battery). Also, the
earth or ground in a cathodic protection system. Also, the positive
terminal of a diode.
Array — See photovoltaic (PV) array.
Array Current — The electrical current produced by a photovoltaic array when
it is exposed to sunlight.
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Array Operating Voltage — The voltage produced by a photovoltaic array
when exposed to sunlight and connected to a load.
Availability — The quality or condition of a photovoltaic system being available
to provide power to a load. Usually measured in hours per year. One
minus availability equals downtime.
Azimuth Angle — The angle between true south and the point on the horizon
directly below the sun.
B
Balance of System — Represents all components and costs other than the
photovoltaic modules/array. It includes design costs, land, site
preparation, system installation, support structures, power conditioning,
operation and maintenance costs, indirect storage, and related costs.
Base Load — The average amount of electric power that a utility must supply
in any period.
Battery — Two or more electrochemical cells enclosed in a container and
electrically interconnected in an appropriate series/parallel arrangement
to provide the required operating voltage and current levels. Under
common usage, the term battery also applies to a single cell if it
constitutes the entire electrochemical storage system.
Battery Available Capacity — The total maximum charge, expressed in
ampere-hours, that can be withdrawn from a cell or battery under a
specific set of operating conditions including discharge rate, temperature,
initial state of charge, age, and cut-off voltage.
Battery Capacity — The maximum total electrical charge, expressed in
ampere-hours, which a battery can deliver to a load under a specific set of
conditions.
Battery Cell — The simplest operating unit in a storage battery. It consists of
one or more positive electrodes or plates, an electrolyte that permits ionic
conduction, one or more negative electrodes or plates, separators between
plates of opposite polarity, and a container for all the above.
Battery Cycle Life — The number of cycles, to a specified depth of discharge,
that a cell or battery can undergo before failing to meet its specified
capacity or efficiency performance criteria.
Battery Energy Capacity — The total energy available, expressed in watt-
hours (kilowatt-hours), which can be withdrawn from a fully charged cell
or battery. The energy capacity of a given cell varies with temperature,
rate, age, and cut-off voltage. This term is more common to system
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designers than it is to the battery industry where capacity usually refers
to ampere-hours.
Battery Energy Storage — Energy storage using electrochemical batteries. The
three main applications for battery energy storage systems include
spinning reserve at generating stations, load leveling at substations, and
peak shaving on the customer side of the meter.
Battery Life — The period during which a cell or battery is capable of
operating above a specified capacity or efficiency performance level. Life
may be measured in cycles and/or years, depending on the type of service
for which the cell or battery is intended.
Blocking Diode — A semiconductor connected in series with a solar cell or
cells and a storage battery to keep the battery from discharging through
the cell when there is no output, or low output, from the solar cell. It can
be thought of
Bypass Diode — A diode connected across one or more solar cells in a
photovoltaic module such that the diode will conduct if the cell(s) become
reverse biased. It protects these solar cells from thermal destruction in
case of total or partial shading of individual solar cells while other cells
are exposed to full light.
C
Capacity Factor — The ratio of the average load on (or power output of) an
electricity generating unit or system to the capacity rating of the unit or
system over a specified period of time.
Captive Electrolyte Battery — A battery having an immobilized electrolyte
(gelled or absorbed in a material).
Cathode — The negative pole or electrode of an electrolytic cell, vacuum tube,
etc., where electrons enter (current leaves) the system; the opposite of an
anode.
Cathodic Protection — A method of preventing oxidation of the exposed metal
in structures by imposing a small electrical voltage between the structure
and the ground.
Cell (Battery) — A single unit of an electrochemical device capable of
producing direct voltage by converting chemical energy into electrical
energy. A battery usually consists of several cells electrically connected
together to produce higher voltages. (Sometimes the terms cell and
battery are used interchangeably). See also photovoltaic (PV) cell.

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Cell Barrier — A very thin region of static electric charge along the interface of
the positive and negative layers in a photovoltaic cell. The barrier inhibits
the movement of electrons from one layer to the other, so that higher-
energy electrons from one side diffuse preferentially through it in one
direction, creating a current and thus a voltage across the cell. Also called
depletion zone or space charge.
Cell Junction — The area of immediate contact between two layers (positive
and negative) of a photovoltaic cell. The junction lies at the center of the
cell barrier or depletion zone.
Charge — The process of adding electrical energy to a battery.
Charge Carrier — A free and mobile conduction electron or hole in a
semiconductor.
Charge Controller — A component of a photovoltaic system that controls the
flow of current to and from the battery to protect it from over-charge and
over-discharge. The charge controller may also indicate the system
operational status.
Charge Factor — A number representing the time in hours during which a
battery can be charged at a constant current without damage to the
battery. Usually expressed in relation to the total battery capacity, i.e.,
C/5 indicates a charge factor of 5 hours. Related to charge rate.
Charge Rate — The current applied to a cell or battery to restore its available
capacity. This rate is commonly normalized by a charge control device
with respect to the rated capacity of the cell or battery.
Conduction Band (or Conduction Level) — An energy band in a
semiconductor in which electrons can move freely in a solid, producing a
net transport of charge.
Conductor — The material through which electricity is transmitted, such as an
electrical wire, or transmission or distribution line.
Contact Resistance — The resistance between metallic contacts and the
semiconductor.
Converter — A unit that converts a direct current (dc) voltage to another dc
voltage.
Copper Indium Diselenide (CuInSe2, or CIS) — A polycrystalline thin-film
photovoltaic material (sometimes incorporating gallium (CIGS) and/or
sulfur).
Copper Zinc Tin Sulfide/Selenide (CZTS) — A polycrystalline thin-film
photovoltaic material.
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Crystalline Silicon — A type of photovoltaic cell made from a slice of single-
crystal silicon or polycrystalline silicon.
Current — See electric current.
Current at Maximum Power (Imp) — The current at which maximum power is
available from a module.
Current-Voltage (I-V) curve — See I-V curve
Cutoff Voltage — The voltage levels (activation) at which the charge controller
disconnects the photovoltaic array from the battery or the load from the
battery.
Cycle — The discharge and subsequent charge of a battery.
Czochralski Process — A method of growing large size, high quality
semiconductor crystal by slowly lifting a seed crystal from a molten bath
of the material under careful cooling conditions.
D
DC-to-DC converter — Electronic circuit to convert direct current voltages
(e.g., photovoltaic module voltage) into other levels (e.g., load voltage). Can
be part of a maximum power point tracker.
Deep-Cycle Battery — A battery with large plates that can withstand many
discharges to a low state-of-charge.
Deep Discharge — Discharging a battery to 20% or less of its full charge
capacity.
Depth of Discharge (DOD) — The ampere-hours removed from a fully charged
cell or battery, expressed as a percentage of rated capacity. For example,
the removal of 25 ampere-hours from a fully charged 100 ampere-hours
rated cell results in a 25% depth of discharge. Under certain conditions,
such as discharge rates lower than that used to rate the cell, depth of
discharge can exceed 100%.
Diode — An electronic device that allows current to flow in one direction only.
See also blocking diode and bypass diode.
Direct Beam Radiation — Radiation received by direct solar rays. Measured
by a pyrheliometer with a solar aperture of 5.7° to transcribe the solar
disc.
Direct Current (DC) — A type of electricity transmission and distribution by
which electricity flows in one direction through the conductor, usually
relatively low voltage and high current. To be used for typical 120 volt or
220 volt household appliances, DC must be converted to alternating
current, its opposite.
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Direct Insolation — Sunlight falling directly upon a collector. Opposite of
diffuse insolation.
Discharge — The withdrawal of electrical energy from a battery.
Discharge Factor — A number equivalent to the time in hours during which a
battery is discharged at constant current usually expressed as a
percentage of the total battery capacity, i.e., C/5 indicates a discharge
factor of 5 hours. Related to discharge rate.
Discharge Rate — The rate, usually expressed in amperes or time, at which
electrical current is taken from the battery.
Distributed Energy Resources (DER) — A variety of small, modular power-
generating technologies that can be combined with energy management
and storage systems and used to improve the operation of the electricity
delivery system, whether or not those technologies are connected to an
electricity grid.
Distributed Generation — A popular term for localized or on-site power
generation.
Dry Cell — A cell (battery) with a captive electrolyte. A primary battery that
cannot be recharged.
Duty Cycle — The ratio of active time to total time. Used to describe the
operating regime of appliances or loads in photovoltaic systems.
Duty Rating — The amount of time an inverter (power conditioning unit) can
produce at full rated power.
E
Electric Circuit — The path followed by electrons from a power source
(generator or battery), through an electrical system, and returning to the
source.
Electric Current — The flow of electrical energy (electricity) in a conductor,
measured in amperes.
Electrical Grid — An integrated system of electricity distribution, usually
covering a large area.
Electricity — Energy resulting from the flow of charge particles, such as
electrons or ions.
Electrode — A conductor that is brought in conducting contact with a ground.
Electrodeposition — Electrolytic process in which a metal is deposited at the
cathode from a solution of its ions.

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Electrolyte — A nonmetallic (liquid or solid) conductor that carries current by
the movement of ions (instead of electrons) with the liberation of matter at
the electrodes of an electrochemical cell.
Electron — An elementary particle of an atom with a negative electrical charge
and a mass of 1/1837 of a proton; electrons surround the positively
charged nucleus of an atom and determine the chemical properties of an
atom. The movement of electrons in an electrical conductor constitutes an
electric current.
Energy — The capability of doing work; different forms of energy can be
converted to other forms, but the total amount of energy remains the
same.
Energy levels — The energy represented by an electron in the band model of a
substance.
F
Flat-Plate Photovoltaics (PV) — A PV array or module that consists of non-
concentrating elements. Flat-plate arrays and modules use direct and
diffuse sunlight, but if the array is fixed in position, some portion of the
direct sunlight is lost because of oblique sun-angles in relation to the
array.
float charge — The voltage required to counteract the self-discharge of the
battery at a certain temperature.
Float Life — The number of years that a battery can keep its stated capacity
when it is kept at float charge.
Frequency — The number of repetitions per unit time of a complete waveform,
expressed in Hertz (Hz).
Frequency Regulation — This indicates the variability in the output
frequency. Some loads will switch off or not operate properly if frequency
variations exceed 1%.
Full Sun — The amount of power density in sunlight received at the earth's
surface at noon on a clear day (about 1,000 Watts/square meter).
G
Grid-Connected System — A solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) system in
which the PV array acts like a central generating plant, supplying power
to the grid.
Grid-Interactive System — Same as grid-connected system.

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Grid-Lines — Metallic contacts fused to the surface of the solar cell to provide
a low resistance path for electrons to flow out to the cell interconnect
wires.
H
High Voltage Disconnect — The voltage at which a charge controller will
disconnect the photovoltaic array from the batteries to prevent
overcharging.
High Voltage Disconnect Hysteresis — The voltage difference between the
high voltage disconnect set point and the voltage at which the full
photovoltaic array current will be reapplied.
Hybrid System — A solar electric or photovoltaic system that includes other
sources of electricity generation, such as wind or diesel generators.
I
Input Voltage — This is determined by the total power required by the
alternating current loads and the voltage of any direct current loads.
Generally, the larger the load, the higher the inverter input voltage. This
keeps the current at levels where switches and other components are
readily available.
Insolation — The solar power density incident on a surface of stated area and
orientation, usually expressed as Watts per square meter or Btu per
square foot per hour. See also diffuse insolation and direct insolation.
Interconnect — A conductor within a module or other means of connection
that provides an electrical interconnection between the solar cells.
Irradiance — The direct, diffuse, and reflected solar radiation that strikes a
surface. Usually expressed in kilowatts per square meter. Irradiance
multiplied by time equals insolation.
ISPRA guidelines — Guidelines for the assessment of photovoltaic power
plants, published by the Joint Research Centre of the Commission of the
European Communities, Ispra, Italy.
I-type semiconductor — Semiconductor material that is left intrinsic, or
undoped so that the concentration of charge carriers is characteristic of
the material itself rather than of added impurities.
I-V curve — A graphical presentation of the current versus the voltage from a
photovoltaic device as the load is increased from the short circuit (no
load) condition to the open circuit (maximum voltage) condition. The
shape of the curve characterizes cell performance.

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J
Junction — A region of transition between semiconductor layers, such as a
p/n junction, which goes from a region that has a high concentration of
acceptors (p-type) to one that has a high concentration of donors (n-type).
Junction Box — A photovoltaic (PV) generator junction box is an enclosure on
the module where PV strings are electrically connected and where
protection devices can be located, if necessary.
Junction Diode — A semiconductor device with a junction and a built-in
potential that passes current better in one direction than the other. All
solar cells are junction diodes.
K
Kilowatt (kW) — A standard unit of electrical power equal to 1000 watts, or to
the energy consumption at a rate of 1000 joules per second.
Kilowatt-Hour (kWh) — 1,000 thousand watts acting over a period of 1 hour.
The kWh is a unit of energy. 1 kWh=3600 kJ.
L
Lead-Acid Battery — A general category that includes batteries with plates
made of pure lead, lead-antimony, or lead-calcium immersed in an acid
electrolyte.
Life-Cycle Cost — The estimated cost of owning and operating a photovoltaic
system for the period of its useful life.
Load — The demand on an energy producing system; the energy consumption
or requirement of a piece or group of equipment. Usually expressed in
terms of amperes or watts in reference to electricity.
Load Circuit — The wire, switches, fuses, etc. that connect the load to the
power source.
Load Current (A) — The current required by the electrical device.
Load Resistance — The resistance presented by the load. See also resistance.
Low Voltage Warning — A warning buzzer or light that indicates the low
battery voltage set point has been reached.

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M
Maintenance-Free Battery — A sealed battery to which water cannot be added
to maintain electrolyte level.
Maximum Power Point (MPP) — The point on the current-voltage (I-V) curve of
a module under illumination, where the product of current and voltage is
maximum. For a typical silicon cell, this is at about 0.45 volts.
Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) — Means of a power conditioning unit
that automatically operates the photovoltaic generator at its maximum
power point under all conditions.
Maximum Power Tracking — Operating a photovoltaic array at the peak
power point of the array's I-V curve where maximum power is obtained.
Also called peak power tracking.
Megawatt (MW) — 1,000 kilowatts, or 1 million watts; standard measure of
electric power plant generating capacity.
Megawatt-Hour — 1,000 kilowatt-hours or 1 million watt-hours.
Metrology — The science of measurement.
Microgroove — A small groove scribed into the surface of a solar cell, which is
filled with metal for contacts.
Micrometer (micron) — One millionth of a meter.
Modified Sine Wave — A waveform that has at least three states (i.e., positive,
off, and negative). Has less harmonic content than a square wave.
Module Derate Factor — A factor that lowers the photovoltaic module current
to account for field operating conditions such as dirt accumulation on the
module.
Multi-crystalline — A semiconductor (photovoltaic) material composed of
variously oriented, small, individual crystals. Sometimes referred to as
polycrystalline or semi-crystalline.
Multijunction Device — A high-efficiency photovoltaic device containing two
or more cell junctions, each of which is optimized for a particular part of
the solar spectrum.
N
Nanometer — One billionth of a meter.
National Electrical Code (NEC) — Contains guidelines for all types of
electrical installations. The 1984 and later editions of the NEC contain
Article 690, "Solar Photovoltaic Systems" which should be followed when
installing a PV system.
NEC — See National Electrical Code.
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Nickel Cadmium Battery — A battery containing nickel and cadmium plates
and an alkaline electrolyte.
Nominal Voltage — A reference voltage used to describe batteries, modules, or
systems (i.e., a 12-volt or 24-volt battery, module, or system).
Normal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT) — The estimated temperature of
a photovoltaic module when operating under 800 w/m2 irradiance, 20°C
ambient temperature and wind speed of 1 meter per second. NOCT is
used to estimate the nominal operating temperature of a module in its
working environment.
N-type — Negative semiconductor material in which there are more electrons
than holes; current is carried through it by the flow of electrons.
N-type Semiconductor — A semiconductor produced by doping an intrinsic
semiconductor with an electron-donor impurity (e.g., phosphorus in
silicon).
N-type Silicon — Silicon material that has been doped with a material that
has more electrons in its atomic structure than does silicon.
O
Ohm — A measure of the electrical resistance of a material equal to the
resistance of a circuit in which the potential difference of 1 volt produces
a current of 1 ampere.
Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) — The maximum possible voltage across a
photovoltaic cell; the voltage across the cell in sunlight when no current is
flowing.
Operating Point — The current and voltage that a photovoltaic module or
array produces when connected to a load. The operating point is
dependent on the load or the batteries connected to the output terminals
of the array.
Orientation — Placement with respect to the cardinal directions, N, S, E, W;
azimuth is the measure of orientation from north.
Overcharge — Forcing current into a fully charged battery. The battery will be
damaged if overcharged for a long period.
P
Packing Factor — The ratio of array area to actual land area or building
envelope area for a system; or, the ratio of total solar cell area to the total
module area, for a module.
Panel — See photovoltaic (PV) panel.

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Parallel Connection — A way of joining solar cells or photovoltaic modules by
connecting positive leads together and negative leads together; such a
configuration increases the current, but not the voltage.
Passivation — A chemical reaction that eliminates the detrimental effect of
electrically reactive atoms on a solar cell's surface.
Peak Demand/Load — The maximum energy demand or load in a specified
time period.
Peak Power Current — Amperes produced by a photovoltaic module or array
operating at the voltage of the I-V curve that will produce maximum
power from the module.
Peak Power Point — Operating point of the I-V (current-voltage) curve for a
solar cell or photovoltaic module where the product of the current value
times the voltage value is a maximum.
Peak Power Tracking — See maximum power tracking.
Peak Sun Hours — The equivalent number of hours per day when solar
irradiance averages 1,000 w/m2. For example, six peak sun hours means
that the energy received during total daylight hours equals the energy
that would have been received had the irradiance for six hours been
1,000 w/m2.
Peak Watt — A unit used to rate the performance of solar cells, modules, or
arrays; the maximum nominal output of a photovoltaic device, in watts
(Wp) under standardized test conditions, usually 1,000 watts per square
meter of sunlight with other conditions, such as temperature specified.
Photoelectric Cell — A device for measuring light intensity that works by
converting light falling on, or reach it, to electricity, and then measuring
the current; used in photometers.
Photoelectrochemical Cell — A type of photovoltaic device in which the
electricity induced in the cell is used immediately within the cell to
produce a chemical, such as hydrogen, which can then be withdrawn for
use.
Photon — A particle of light that acts as an individual unit of energy.
Photovoltaic(s) (PV) — Pertaining to the direct conversion of light into
electricity.
Photovoltaic (PV) Array — An interconnected system of PV modules that
function as a single electricity-producing unit. The modules are
assembled as a discrete structure, with common support or mounting. In
smaller systems, an array can consist of a single module.
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Photovoltaic (PV) Cell — The smallest semiconductor element within a PV
module to perform the immediate conversion of light into electrical energy
(direct current voltage and current). Also called a solar cell.
Photovoltaic (PV) Conversion Efficiency — The ratio of the electric power
produced by a photovoltaic device to the power of the sunlight incident on
the device.
Photovoltaic (PV) Device — A solid-state electrical device that converts light
directly into direct current electricity of voltage-current characteristics
that are a function of the characteristics of the light source and the
materials in and design of the device. Solar photovoltaic devices are made
of various semiconductor materials including silicon, cadmium sulfide,
cadmium telluride, and gallium arsenide, and in single crystalline, multi-
crystalline, or amorphous forms.
Photovoltaic (PV) Effect — The phenomenon that occurs when photons, the
"particles" in a beam of light, knock electrons loose from the atoms they
strike. When this property of light is combined with the properties of
semiconductors, electrons flow in one direction across a junction, setting
up a voltage. With the addition of circuitry, current will flow and electric
power will be available.
Photovoltaic (PV) Generator — The total of all PV strings of a PV power
supply system, which are electrically interconnected.
Photovoltaic (PV) Module — The smallest environmentally protected,
essentially planar assembly of solar cells and ancillary parts, such as
interconnections, terminals, (and protective devices such as diodes)
intended to generate direct current power under unconcentrated sunlight.
The structural (load carrying) member of a module can either be the top
layer (superstrate) or the back layer (substrate).
Photovoltaic (PV) Panel — often used interchangeably with PV module
(especially in one-module systems), but more accurately used to refer to a
physically connected collection of modules (i.e., a laminate string of
modules used to achieve a required voltage and current).
Photovoltaic (PV) System — A complete set of components for converting
sunlight into electricity by the photovoltaic process, including the array
and balance of system components.
Photovoltaic-Thermal (PV/T) System — A photovoltaic system that, in
addition to converting sunlight into electricity, collects the residual heat

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energy and delivers both heat and electricity in usable form. Also called a
total energy system or solar thermal system.
Plates — A metal plate, usually lead or lead compound, immersed in the
electrolyte in a battery.
P/N — A semiconductor photovoltaic device structure in which the junction is
formed between a p-type layer and an n-type layer.
Polycrystalline — See multi-crystalline.
Polycrystalline Silicon — A material used to make photovoltaic cells, which
consist of many crystals unlike single-crystal silicon.
Polycrystalline Thin Film — A thin film made of multi-crystalline material.
Power — The amount of electrical energy available for doing work, measured in
horsepower, Watts, or Btu per hour.
Power Conditioning — The process of modifying the characteristics of
electrical power (for e.g., inverting direct current to alternating current).
Power Conditioning Equipment — Electrical equipment, or power electronics,
used to convert power from a photovoltaic array into a form suitable for
subsequent use. A collective term for inverter, converter, battery charge
regulator, and blocking diode.
Power Conversion Efficiency — The ratio of output power to input power of
the inverter.
Power Density — The ratio of the power available from a battery to its mass
(W/kg) or volume (W/l).
Power Factor (PF) — The ratio of actual power being used in a circuit,
expressed in watts or kilowatts, to the power that is apparently being
drawn from a power source, expressed in volt-amperes or kilovolt-
amperes.
Primary Battery — A battery whose initial capacity cannot be restored by
charging.
Projected Area — The net south-facing glazing area projected on a vertical
plane.
P-type Semiconductor — A semiconductor in which holes carry the current;
produced by doping an intrinsic semiconductor with an electron acceptor
impurity (e.g., boron in silicon).
Pulse-Width-Modulated (PWM) Wave Inverter — A type of power inverter that
produce a high quality (nearly sinusoidal) voltage, at minimum current
harmonics.
PV — See photovoltaic(s).
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Pyranometer — An instrument used for measuring global solar irradiance.
Pyrheliometer — An instrument used for measuring direct beam solar
irradiance. Uses an aperture of 5.7° to transcribe the solar disc.
R
Ramp — A change in generation output.
Ramp Rate — The ability of a generating unit to change its output over some
unit of time, often measured in MW/min.
Rankine Cycle — A thermodynamic cycle used in steam turbines to convert
heat energy into work. Concentrating solar power plants often rely on the
Rankine cycle. In CSP systems, mirrors focus sunlight on a heat-transfer
fluid. This is used to creates steam, which spins a turbine to generate
electricity.
Rated Battery Capacity — The term used by battery manufacturers to
indicate the maximum amount of energy that can be withdrawn from a
battery under specified discharge rate and temperature. See also battery
capacity.
Rated Module Current (A) — The current output of a photovoltaic module
measured at standard test conditions of 1,000 w/m2 and 25°C cell
temperature.
Rated Power — Rated power of the inverter. However, some units can not
produce rated power continuously. See also duty rating.
Reactive Power — The sine of the phase angle between the current and
voltage waveforms in an alternating current system. See also power
factor.
Rectifier — A device that converts alternating current to direct current. See
also inverter.
Regulator — Prevents overcharging of batteries by controlling charge cycle-
usually adjustable to conform to specific battery needs.
Remote Systems — See stand-alone systems.
Resistance (R) — The property of a conductor, which opposes the flow of an
electric current resulting in the generation of heat in the conducting
material. The measure of the resistance of a given conductor is the
electromotive force needed for a unit current flow. The unit of resistance
is ohms.
Resistive Voltage Drop — The voltage developed across a cell by the current
flow through the resistance of the cell.
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Reverse Current Protection — Any method of preventing unwanted current
flow from the battery to the photovoltaic array (usually at night). See also
blocking diode.
S
Sealed Battery — A battery with a captive electrolyte and a resealing vent cap,
also called a valve-regulated battery. Electrolyte cannot be added.
Seasonal Depth of Discharge — An adjustment factor used in some system
sizing procedures which "allows" the battery to be gradually discharged
over a 30-90 day period of poor solar insolation. This factor results in a
slightly smaller photovoltaic array.
Secondary Battery — A battery that can be recharged.
Self-Discharge — The rate at which a battery, without a load, will lose its
charge.
Semiconductor — Any material that has a limited capacity for conducting an
electric current. Certain semiconductors, including silicon, gallium
arsenide, copper indium diselenide, and cadmium telluride, are uniquely
suited to the photovoltaic conversion process.
Semi-crystalline — See multi-crystalline.
Series Connection — A way of joining photovoltaic cells by connecting positive
leads to negative leads; such a configuration increases the voltage.
Series Controller — A charge controller that interrupts the charging current
by open-circuiting the photovoltaic (PV) array. The control element is in
series with the PV array and battery.
Series Regulator — Type of battery charge regulator where the charging
current is controlled by a switch connected in series with the photovoltaic
module or array.
Series Resistance — Parasitic resistance to current flow in a cell due to
mechanisms such as resistance from the bulk of the semiconductor
material, metallic contacts, and interconnections.
Shallow-Cycle Battery — A battery with small plates that cannot withstand
many discharges to a low state-of-charge.
Shelf Life of Batteries — The length of time, under specified conditions, that a
battery can be stored so that it keeps its guaranteed capacity.
Short-Circuit Current (Isc) — The current flowing freely through an external
circuit that has no load or resistance; the maximum current possible.
Sine Wave — A waveform corresponding to a single-frequency periodic
oscillation that can be mathematically represented as a function of
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amplitude versus angle in which the value of the curve at any point is
equal to the sine of that angle.
Sine Wave Inverter — An inverter that produces utility-quality, sine wave
power forms.
Single-Crystal Material — A material that is composed of a single crystal or a
few large crystals.
Single-Crystal Silicon — Material with a single crystalline formation. Many
photovoltaic cells are made from single-crystal silicon.
Single-Stage Controller — A charge controller that redirects all charging
current as the battery nears full state-of-charge.
Solar Cell — See photovoltaic (PV) cell.
Solar Energy — Electromagnetic energy transmitted from the sun (solar
radiation). The amount that reaches the earth is equal to one billionth of
total solar energy generated, or the equivalent of about 420 trillion
kilowatt-hours.
Solar-Grade Silicon — Intermediate-grade silicon used in the manufacture of
solar cells. Less expensive than electronic-grade silicon.
Solar Insolation — See insolation.
Solar Irradiance — See irradiance.
Solar Noon — The time of the day, at a specific location, when the sun reaches
its highest, apparent point in the sky.
Solar Panel — See photovoltaic (PV) panel.
wavelength region from 280 nm to 4,000 nm is called the broadband, or total,
solar radiation.
Specific Gravity — The ratio of the weight of the solution to the weight of an
equal volume of water at a specified temperature. Used as an indicator of
battery state-of-charge.
Square Wave — A waveform that has only two states, (i.e., positive or negative).
A square wave contains a large number of harmonics.
Square Wave Inverter — A type of inverter that produces square wave output.
It consists of a direct current source, four switches, and the load. The
switches are power semiconductors that can carry a large current and
withstand a high voltage rating. The switches are turned on and off at a
correct sequence, at a certain frequency.
Staebler-Wronski Effect — The tendency of the sunlight to electricity
conversion efficiency of amorphous silicon photovoltaic devices to degrade
(drop) upon initial exposure to light.
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Stand-Alone System — An autonomous or hybrid photovoltaic system not
connected to a grid. May or may not have storage, but most stand-alone
systems require batteries or some other form of storage.
Storage Battery — A device capable of transforming energy from electric to
chemical form and vice versa. The reactions are almost completely
reversible. During discharge, chemical energy is converted to electric
energy and is consumed in an external circuit or apparatus.
Stratification — A condition that occurs when the acid concentration varies
from top to bottom in the battery electrolyte. Periodic, controlled charging
at voltages that produce gassing will mix the electrolyte. See also
equalization.
String — A number of photovoltaic modules or panels interconnected
electrically in series to produce the operating voltage required by the load.
Sub-Hourly Energy Markets — Electricity markets that operate on time steps
of 5 minutes. Approximately 60% of all electricity in the United States is
currently traded in sub-hourly markets, running at 5-minute intervals so
that maximum flexibility can be obtained from the generation fleet.
System Operating Voltage — The photovoltaic array output voltage under
load. The system operating voltage is dependent on the load or batteries
connected to the output terminals.
System Storage — See battery capacity.
T
Thermophotovoltaic Cell (TPV) — A device where sunlight concentrated onto
a absorber heats it to a high temperature, and the thermal radiation
emitted by the absorber is used as the energy source for a photovoltaic
cell that is designed to maximize conversion efficiency at the wavelength
of the thermal radiation.
Thin Film — A layer of semiconductor material, such as copper indium
diselenide or gallium arsenide, a few microns or less in thickness, used to
make photovoltaic cells.
Thin Film Photovoltaic Module — A photovoltaic module constructed with
sequential layers of thin film semiconductor materials. See also
amorphous silicon.
Tilt Angle — The angle at which a photovoltaic array is set to face the sun
relative to a horizontal position. The tilt angle can be set or adjusted to
maximize seasonal or annual energy collection.

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Total AC Load Demand — The sum of the alternating current loads. This
value is important when selecting an inverter.
Transformer — An electromagnetic device that changes the voltage of
alternating current electricity.
Transparent Conducting Oxide (TCO) — A doped metal oxide used to coat
and improve the performance of optoelectronic devices such as
photovoltaics and flat panel displays. Most TCO films are fabricated with
polycrystalline or amorphous microstructures and are deposited on glass.
The current industry-standard TCO is indium tin oxide. Indium is
relatively rare and expensive, so research is ongoing to develop improved
TCOs based on alternative materials.
V
Volt (V) — A unit of electrical force equal to that amount of electromotive force
that will cause a steady current of one ampere to flow through a
resistance of one ohm.
Voltage — The amount of electromotive force, measured in volts, that exists
between two points.
Voltage at Maximum Power (Vmp) — The voltage at which maximum power is
available from a photovoltaic module.
Voltage Protection — Many inverters have sensing circuits that will
disconnect the unit from the battery if input voltage limits are exceeded.
Voltage Regulation — This indicates the variability in the output voltage.
Some loads will not tolerate voltage variations greater than a few percent.
W
Wafer — A thin sheet of semiconductor (photovoltaic material) made by cutting
it from a single crystal or ingot.
Watt — The rate of energy transfer equivalent to one ampere under an
electrical pressure of one volt. One watt equals 1/746 horsepower, or one
joule per second. It is the product of voltage and current (amperage).
Waveform — The shape of the phase power at a certain frequency and
amplitude.
Z
Zenith angle — the angle between the direction of interest (of the sun, for
example) and the zenith (directly overhead).

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HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL
Welcome to the module in “PERFORMING PV SYSTEM TESTING and

COMMISSIONING”. This module contains information and learning activities
for on how Prepare and commission PV system, Inspect and notify completion
of work.
The unit of competency “PERFORM PV SYSTEM TESTING and

COMMISSIONING” deals with the skills, knowledge and attitude required you
to explore the world of Photovoltaic System installation NC –II.
You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

complete each learning outcome of the module. Each learning outcomes is
provided with Information Sheets (Reference Materials for further reading to
help you better understand the required activities). Follow these activities on
your own and answer the self-check at the end of each learning outcome. You
may remove a blank answer sheet at the end of each module (or get one from
your facilitator/trainer) to write your answers for each self-check. If you have
questions, don’t hesitate to ask your facilitator for assistance.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
You may already have some or most of the knowledge and skills covered in
this learner's guide because you have:
been working for some time
already completed training in this area.
If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a
particular skill or skills, talk to him/her about having them formally recognized
so you don't have to do the same training again. If you have a qualification or
Certificate of Competency from previous trainings, show it to your trainer. If
the skills you acquired are still current and relevant to the unit/s of
competency they may become part of the evidence you can present for RPL. If
you are not sure about the currency of your skills, discuss this with your
trainer.
At the end of this module is a Learner’s Diary. Use this diary to record
important dates, jobs undertaken and other workplace events that will assist
you in providing further details to your trainer or assessor. A Record of
Achievement is also provided for your trainer to complete once you complete
the module.
This module was prepared to help you achieve the required competency, in
Preparing and maintaining Electrical Hydraulic and power Tools. This will be
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the source of information for you to acquire knowledge and skills in this
particular trade independently and at your own pace, with minimum
supervision or help from your instructor.
▪ Talk to your trainer and agree on how you will both organize the Training
of this unit. Read through the module carefully. It is divided into
sections, which cover all the skills, and knowledge you need to
successfully complete this module.
▪ Work through all the information and complete the activities in each
section. Read information sheets and complete the self-check. Suggested
references are included to supplement the materials provided in this
module.
▪ Most probably your trainer will also be your supervisor or manager.
He/she is there to support you and show you the correct way to do
things.
▪ Your trainer will tell you about the important things you need to consider
when you are completing activities and it is important that you listen and
take notes.
▪ You will be given plenty of opportunity to ask questions and practice on
the job. Make sure you practice your new skills during regular work
shifts. This way you will improve both your speed and memory and also
your confidence.
▪ Talk to more experience workmates and ask for their guidance.
▪ Use the self-check questions at the end of each section to test your own
progress.
▪ When you are ready, ask your trainer to watch you perform the activities
outlined in this module.
▪ As you work through the activities, ask for written feedback on your
progress. Your trainer keeps feedback/ pre-assessment reports for this
reason. When you have successfully completed each element, ask your
trainer to mark on the reports that you are ready for assessment.
▪ When you have completed this module (or several modules), and feel
confident that you have had sufficient practice, your trainer will arrange
an appointment with registered assessor to assess you. The results of
your assessment will be recorded in your competency Achievement
Record.

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COMPETENCY SUMMARY
COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM
INSTALLATION NC-II
CORE COMPETENCY
No Unit of Competency Module Title Code
1 PERFORM BASIC PERFORMING BASIC

ELECTRICAL WIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING
PERFORM SITE PERFORMING SITE CON724325

2 ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT
3 CHECK PV CHECKING PV CON724326
COMPONENTS/MATERIALS COMPONENTS/MATERIAL
COMPLIANCE S COMPLIANCE
4 INSTALL PV SYSTEM INSTALLING PV SYSTEM CON724327
5 PERFORM PV SYSTEM PERFORMING PV SYSTEM CON724328

TESTING AND TESTING AND
COMMISSIONING COMMISSIONING
6 PERFORM BASIC AERIAL PERFOMING BASIC
SURVEY AERIAL SURVEY

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Module Content
: PERFORM PV SYSTEM TESTING AND
UNIT OF COMPETENCY COMMISSIONING
MODULE TITLE : PERFORMING PV SYSTEM TESTING AND
COMMISSIONING
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module covers the required knowledge skills
and attitude in Performing PV system
commissioning
NOMINAL DURATION : 24 hours
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
At the end of this module you MUST be able to:
1. Prepare to commission PV system

2. Commission PV system
3. Inspect and notify completion of works
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
• Work instructions are validated to ensure clear understanding of job

requirements
• Commissioning procedures are planned according to manufacturer’s
instructions and job order requirements
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to complete job order
requirements are obtained according to established procedures
• Tools, measuring instruments and materials needed for commissioning
are obtained according to established procedures
• Each component and the whole system are checked if operational and
are installed according to established procedures and job order
requirements
• Corrective measures or rectifications on the installation are made in line
with established procedures
• PV systems is activated according to commissioning procedures
• Occupational health and safety procedures are followed during
commissioning
• Final inspection is undertaken to ensure that commissioning of PV
system meets job requirements
• Commissioning document is accomplished and written report is prepared
using the prescribed format and submitted to the supervisor
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• Work completed is notified to a supervisor and customer according to
established procedure
• Proper housekeeping is observed and practiced in accordance with
occupational health and safety standards
• Customer is oriented on the use of the installed system according to
company procedures and manufacturer’s instruction.

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LO1. PREPARE TO COMMISSION PV SYSTEM
1. Work instructions are validated to ensure clear understanding of job

requirements.
2. Commission procedures are planned according to manufacturer’s
instruction and job order requirements.
3. Personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to complete job order
requirements are obtained according to established procedures
4. Tools, measuring instrument and materials needed for commissioning
are obtained according to established procedures.
CONTENTS:
• Commissioning procedures for PV system

• Commissioning documents
CONDITION:
• Equipment • Supplies and materials

- Simulated installation • Checklists
site • Forms
- Personal protective • PV Panel
equipment • Inverter
o Goggles • Charge Controller
o Gloves • Backup Battery
o Safety shoes • Battery fluid
o Hard Hat • PV wires
o Safety Body harness
• MC4
• Tools
• Fastening clamps
- Line man’s pliers
• Screws/ bolts n nuts
- Diagonal cutting pliers
- Long nose pliers • PV rails
- Multi grip pliers • Terminal blocks
- Spirit level • Y terminal
- Pull and push rule
- Screw driver
- Smart phone (GPS, • Learning Materials

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angle meter - CBLM
application, compass - Books, manuals, and
application) catalogs
- Compass - Videos tutorials
- MC4 crimper
- MC4 tightening tool
- Hydrometer
- Battery cell tester
- Allen wrench (set)
- Multi tester
(digital/analog)
- Amp meter
- Wire stripper
- PV wire cutter
- Rope
METHODOLOGIES:
• Demonstration
• Lecture-discussion
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
• Written examination
• Interview/oral questioning
• Demonstration

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Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome No. 1
Prepare and Commission PV System
Learning Activities Special Instruction
1. Read Information Sheet 5.1-1

Commissioning procedures for PV
Systems
2. Answer Self-Check 5.1-1
Compare answer with answer key 5.1-1
3. Read Information Sheet 5.1-2

Commissioning documents
4. Answer Self-Check 5.1-2

Compare answer with answer key 5.1-2

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INFORMATION SHEET NO. 5.1-1
COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES for PV SYSTEMS
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to:
1. Be familiar with commissioning activities for PV system
2. Carry out commissioning activities for PV system
Testing and Commissioning Once all equipment has been installed, a

testing and commissioning process will confirm that the installation is safe and
complete, ensure safety to equipment and people, and verify that the system
performs to design specifications. Each component is visually inspected and
tested in turn before the inverters are connected to the grid. Representatives of
both the developer and the building owner should attend the testing and
commissioning. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has
produced an international standard (IEC 62446) for system documentation,
commissioning tests, and inspection of PV systems (IEC 2009). The system
should also be compared against the local electrical and building codes during
the testing. The first step of commissioning is to conduct a general inspection.
The inspection will verify that all components have been completely and
correctly installed, properly labeled, can withstand weather exposure, and
included in the as-built plans, and that the system is aesthetically acceptable.
The next step is to conduct electrical testing of both the DC and AC
components. The testing should be conducted on a fine day when there is a
good amount of irradiance. Testing should be carried out by an accredited
electrical contractor, preferably an objective third party. As during installation,
proper safety precautions should be taken, and careful testing that is properly
sequenced will prevent damage to people or equipment.
Commissioning of PV systems involves visual observations as well as
tests and measurements to verify the safe and proper operation of the system.
Commissioning is performed immediately after PV installations are completed,
prior to being operated and put into service for the first time. A thorough
commissioning process helps improve safety and quality control, provides
verification the installation matches the plans and code requirements, and is
performing as expected. Some of the tests conducted during commissioning
may be repeated during periodic routine maintenance to help ensure that the
system remains in a satisfactory operating condition over its lifetime.
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Key steps of a PV system commissioning procedure typically include:
• Completing final installation details.
• Completing visual inspections.
• Verifying compliance with PEC covered requirements.
• Conducting electrical verification tests.
• Vo/c, Is/c, insulation resistance, polarity.
• Verifying system functionality including start-up, operations, shut-down
and emergency procedures.
• Verifying system power output and energy production meet performance
expectations.
• Completing system documentation, including changes for as-built
drawings.
• Conducting user orientation and training on system operations and
safety.
Final Installation Checkout

Typically, the installation contractor will perform the final checkout,
prior to formal inspections by building officials. With the exception of the PV
array, all circuits should be de-energized wherever possible in preparation for
system testing. A punch list can be used to help check off items as they are
completed, and typically includes the following items:
• Verifying that all structural and electrical components are properly
installed and secured.
• Verifying that all components are installed in a neat and
workmanlike manner, including wire management practices.
• Verifying proper connections and terminations, including terminal
torque specifications.
• Verifying that all required system and equipment labels, marking
and placards are correct and in the proper locations.
• Verify that any calibrations or adjustments for inverters, charge
controllers or other equipment are properly set or programmed.
• Verifying that all disconnects are open, fuses are removed and
lockout/tagout procedures are in place.
• Identifying and completing any unresolved items.
• Completing site clean-up and restoring site to original conditions.

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Visual Inspection
Visual inspections of PV systems should be performed as part of
commissioning and routinely over the system lifetime to verify and ensure that
the system remains in a safe and properly functioning condition. There are
many areas to evaluate with visual inspections, with the frequency and level of
detail depending on the type and size of the system involved. Visual inspections
are supplemented with other observations, test measurements and
performance data to fully evaluate the safety and condition of PV systems.
Initial inspections are primarily used to identify unfinished installation details
and verify compliance with the applicable code requirements. Visual
inspections conducted after installation during periodic routine maintenance
tend to look for physical damage or degradation of equipment from temperature
extremes, moisture or other environmental conditions. Prior to initial operation,
all PV systems should be inspected for full compliance with the Standard
Requirements. Checklists are often used to review and verify these
requirements at the time of inspection. Among the key requirements covered
for Electrical Installations include:
• All equipment shall be properly listed, identified and labeled, suitable for
the conditions of use, and be installed according to the listed product
instructions.
• All equipment shall be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner,
consistent with quality craftsmanship standards in the electrical
construction industry.
• All equipment shall be mechanically secured and provided with adequate
ventilation or cooling as required.
• All electrical terminations and connections shall be made using approved
products and installation methods. This includes consideration of
conductor and terminal materials, temperature ratings, and use of
specially approved terminals for use with fine stranded conductors or
more than a single conductor. Pressure connectors using a set screw
have required tightening torques, and these values should be recorded
and verified at commissioning.
• All electrical equipment shall be marked with the manufacturer’s
identification and applicable specifications and ratings.
• Sufficient working spaces shall be provided about any electrical
equipment that is likely to be serviced or maintained while energized.

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Clear spaces and dedicated spaces are also required about certain
electrical equipment, such as panelboards or switchgear.
Photovoltaic Systems should also be evaluated and verified during visual

inspections. These requirements address the following areas:
• Calculating circuit voltages and currents
• Determining conductor and over current device sizes and ratings
• Locating disconnecting means
• Wiring methods and connectors
• Equipment and system grounding
• Markings and labels
• Installing batteries and charge controllers

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Labels and Markings
Numerous markings, labels and signs are required to identify PV systems
and their components, and to warn operators, service personnel or emergency
responders of hazardous conditions. Manufacturer markings and labels
identify the size, type, specifications and ratings for PV modules, inverters,
controllers, combiner boxes, conductors, raceways, overcurrent devices,
switchgear and all other electrical components. These markings are placed on
the product at the time of manufacture, and include listing marks from the
approval agency. Additional markings and labels are required for the overall
system and certain components in PV systems, and are to be provided and
placed by the installer. These include additional labels on dc conductors and
raceways, connectors, disconnecting means, and at the point of utility
connection. Labels and markings are also required on PV modules, alternating-
current modules, the PV power source, ground fault protection equipment and
battery storage systems. Special labeling is also required for bipolar arrays,
ungrounded PV arrays, facility with either stand-alone systems or multiple
power sources and stand-alone inverters providing a single 120-volt supply.

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Self-Check 5.1-1
Write true if the statement is correct and false if it is not.
1. Commissioning of PV systems involves visual observations as well as

tests and measurements to verify the safe and proper operation of the
system.
2. The installation contractor will perform the final checkout, prior to
formal inspections by building officials.
3. Measuring open circuit voltage is one of the key steps in visual
inspection.
4. All electrical terminations and connections shall be made using MC4
connectors only.
5. Completing site clean-up and restoring site to original conditions is a
part of final installation check-out.

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Answer Key No 5.1-1
1. True
2. True
3. false
4. false
5. true

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TASK SHEET No. 5.1-1
Commissioning procedures for PV systems
Learning Outcomes:
Learning Activity:
• Get used to the proper commissioning procedure of PV systems.
• Learn to make your own list on the PV commissioning method
• Be able to check with manufacturer’s manual for specific startup
procedure
Equipment/Resources:
Multi-tester
DC and AC main distribution panels
DC and AC circuit breaker
Inverter
Solar charge controller
PV panels/modules
Wire or cables
Deep cycle batteries
CBLM
Books, manuals, and catalogs
Site location
Objective:
At the end of the activity the trainee should be able to use, learn, and
check proper commissioning procedures for PV systems.
Procedures:
Your trainer will provide you a bond paper and all materials needed in
this task. All you have to do is make sure you are familiar with all materials
and the PV systems that you need to commission.
In your bond paper write this following:

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Off-grid PV system
Final checkout
The system should be checked thoroughly before the commissioning starts
As you commission different PV systems, tick the YES NO REMARKS
sentences below if they follow the correct PV system
commissioning procedure, and put remarks if not.
ELECTRICAL ITEMS
All disconnects are in (OFF) position during the
final checkout
Installation matches the design documentation.
Conductors, OCPD, and disconnect are sized
appropriately.
Compliance with all local AHJ and national codes
(including NEC) is met
Terminals connections and screws are securely
tightened.
MAIN MECHANICAL AND STRUCTURAL ITEMS
Equipment is securely mounted (such as modules,
racking, inverters, panels and disconnects and so
on)
Roof penetrations are properly weather sealed
Installations are matched to the manufacturer's
specifications and recommendations.
OTHER SAFETY ITEMS TO CONSIDER
Applicable warning signs and labels are posted
appropriately
The job site is clean and orderly
The documentation package is complete
Attention has been paid to details such as removing
tools from the site before commissioning
AC and DC disconnects need to remain in “OFF”
position

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Fuses are not connected
Make sure to use proper meter settings for DC
Test after connecting PV modules in series and

measure
Expected voltage (from calculation of modules)
Voltage polarity
position
Fuses not connected as well
Watch for negative sign on meter that means lead
positions of meter is not correct or circuit is not
wired properly!!!
TEST AC VOLTAGE AT INVERTER OUTPUT
Make sure to use proper meter settings for AC
Test Line to Line and Line to Neutral
Compare with inverter AC voltage (specs sheet
If inverter has settings for more than one
connection, match your service setting for voltage
After this step, return fuses if applicable
START-UP PROCEDURES
Lift AC disconnect lever (inverter to grid)
Lift DC disconnect lever (PV to inverter)
Check with manufacturer’s manual for specific
startup procedure
Most inverters have Delay to check on grid and
synchronize before connecting
Learner’s Name: Date:

Facilitator’s Name: Date:

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Hybrid-off grid PV system
Final checkout
ELECTRICAL ITEMS
final checkout
appropriately.
tightened.
on)
appropriately
position

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measure
Voltage polarity
position
wired properly!!!
START-UP PROCEDURES
startup procedure


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Grid-tied PV system
Final checkout
ELECTRICAL ITEMS
final checkout
appropriately.
tightened.
on)
appropriately
position

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measure
Voltage polarity
position
wired properly!!!
START-UP PROCEDURES
startup procedure


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ASSESSMENT CRITERIA CHECKLIST No. 5.1-1
CRITERIA YES NO
DID THE LEARNER…
1 Follow the instruction of correct procedure in PV
commissioning
2 Follow all the steps written in the checklist
3 Use correct tools in checking the circuit
4 Use multi-tester in reading Voltage and Current
5 Perform proper procedure for PV commissioning
6 Calculate the exact power output of the inverter
7 Inspect the appearance of PV components that already
installed.
8 Check the batteries carefully
9 Read manuals for specific startup procedures
10 Follow the safety procedures before startup the systems.
Critical Aspects
▪ Satisfactory
▪ Not Satisfactory


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COMMISSIONING DOCUMENTS
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to understand
and interpret commissioning documents.
Prior to commissioning, the service provider of the PV systems must

perform the pre-commissioning checks.
This activity shall be conducted by the competent persons as stated at
the end of the checklist, whilst adhering to the relevant laws and regulations.
A copy of the completed pre-commissioning checklist and test result
must be submitted to Distribution Licensee (DL) for application of Testing and
Commissioning.
During the pre-commissioning checks, the PV systems SHALL NOT

BE ENGAGED to the grid.
The pre-commissioning checks consist the following (mandatory minimum):

1. Information about Project
2. Checklist for General Inspection
3. Checklist for PV Module Mounting Structure & Civil foundation
4. Checklist for DC Junction Box or String Monitoring Box
5. Checklist for Earthing & Lightning Arrestor
6. Checklist for PV Module
7. Checklist for Inverter
8. Checklist for AC Distribution Box
9. Checklist of Cable identification and cable routing inspection
10. Checklist for weather monitoring station and monitoring system
11. Cable insulation test
12. String fuse continuity and string open circuit voltage test
13. String DC short circuit current test
14. Isolation device functional test

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INFORMATION ABOUT PROJECT
Table 1.1 Information about project

Project details
FIT application number :
Project description :
Site GPS coordinates (Latitude, :
Longitude)
Site address :
Date of inspection (dd_mmm_yyyy) :
Customer details
Name :
Full post address :
Mobile phone number/Land line :
number
Email Address :
Installation Details
Date of completion of installation
Date of planned connection to grid
Import meter reading(kWh) at pre-
comm session
Export meter reading (kWh) at pre-
comm session
Remarks:

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CHECKLIST FOR GENERAL INSPECTION
Table 1.2 Checklist for General Inspection
Description If the job has been done satisfactorily, Date of
please tick _ in the box. inspection:
If not applicable, write ‘NA’ in the box. (dd_mmm_yyyy)
Instructions This form shall be filled-up Inverter ID: Sub-array ID:
for each sub-array
connected to one inverter
A. General All necessary safety equipment are
available at the site
Array frame correctly fixed and stable
All cable entries are weather proof
PV module location, perimeter, gate,
control room & switch yard,
plant internal road location as per
approved layout drawing
Components comply with standards and
are selected as per design &
not damaged
Equipment accessible for inspection,
operation & maintenance
Equipment & accessories are connected
as per approved drawing
Protective measures for special locations
have been addressed
(if applicable)
Equipment & protective measures are
appropriate to external influence
System installed to prevent mutual
detrimental influence
All cables are identified and connected as
per approved drawing

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All cables are selected for current
carrying capacity and voltage drop
as per approved design
Conductors routed are in safe zone or
protected against mechanical
damage
All tagging are appropriate.
All signages are appropriate.
All relevant documents are available.
Emergency procedure displayed at site
PV system schematic displayed at site
B. DC Side
Adequate physical separation of AC, DC
& communication cables
All DC components are sized for rated
operation at maximum
DC system voltage
All DC cables are meant for solar PV
applications and as
per design document
PV string fuse or DC breaker are
available in the combiner boxes
C. Protection
against over
voltage & Live parts are insulated and protected by
Electric barrier/enclosure, placed
Shock out of reach
Surge protection devices are available
External lightning protection system is
available
PV frame grounding correctly integrated

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with existing installation
D. AC Side
Inverter protection setting as per local
regulation (labelling &
identification mark)
Protection setting by installers displayed
at site (maximum current,
range of voltage and frequency)
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR PV MODULE MOUNTING STRUCTURE & CIVIL
FOUNDATION
Table 1.3 Checklist for PV Module Mounting Structure & Civil Foundation
Description If the job has been done satisfactorily, please Date of
tick in the box. inspection:
Instructions This form shall be filled-up for Inverter ID: Sub-array ID:
each sub-array connected to
one inverter
Mounting structure and jointing materials as per approved
drawing
Foundation dimensions as per approved drawing
Switch yard civil foundation as per approved drawing
The material for structure has corrosion proof coating
(check for availability of factory test certificate)
Structures are correctly fixed at specific tilt and orientation
as per design document
No crack found in the foundation and/or mounting structure
Structures are designed based on the maximum wind load of
the location
(check for availability of structure engineer certificate)
No rust (for steel) or discoloration (for aluminum) found in
the structure materials
(e.g. frame, clamp, bolt and nuts, etc.)
Water drainage is available
Comments:

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CHECKCHECKLISTLIST FOR DC JUNCTION BOX OR STRING
MONITORING BOX
Table 1.4 Checklist for PV Module Mounting Structure & Civil Foundation
Instructions This form shall be filled-up for Inverter ID: Sub-array ID:
each sub-array connected to
one inverter
DC Junction/String Monitoring Box connection diagram is
available at the inside of the cover
Wiring is as per approved schematic
String fuses or DC circuit breakers are available
Metal casings are earthed as per design document
All boxes are properly fixed at appropriate locations as per
design document
Surge protections devices are available inside the box as per
design document
Box and related component & insulation rating based on
maximum DC voltage
Boxes for outdoor use should be suitably rated based on
Malaysia climate
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR EARTHING & LIGHTNING ARRESTOR
Table 1.5 Checklist for earthing & lightning arrestor
Instructions his form shall be filled-up for Inverter ID: Sub-array ID:
each earthing pit and each
lightning arrestor
Earthing location as per approved drawing
Earthing conductor properly connected to metal parts of all
structures
All array frames (for framed modules) and structures are
earthed and bonded properly
Earthing & lightning arrestor are installed as per design
document
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR PV MODULE INSPECTION
Table 1.6 Checklist for PV module
Instructions This form shall be filled-up for Structure ID: Sub-array ID:
each subarray
structure
PV modules are fixed on the structure as per design drawing
PV modules are properly levelled on the structure
PV modules conform to relevant IEC standards as per design
document
Inter-module connectors are properly crimped & securely
connected
PV modules are connected with correct polarity
Non-metallic isolator is present between each PV module
frame & structure (if they are made from different metals)
Installation of PV modules are done as per manufacturer’s
guidelines
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR INVERTER INSPECTION
Table 1.7 Checklist for inverter
Instructions This form shall be filled-up for Structure ID: Sub-array ID:
each
inverter
Inverter is installed as per manufacturer’s guideline
Sufficient ventilation is available around the inverter (as per
manufacturer’s
guideline)
Inverter conforms to relevant IEC standards (or equivalent) as
per design document
Inverter unit is properly fastened to floor/wall surfaces
Inverter is properly earthed
Inverter incoming/outgoing cables are properly tagged
Inverter incoming/outgoing cables are properly connected as
per drawing
The connections for phase sequence L1, L2 & L3 are in
proper order (for three phase inverters)
The connections for L and N are in proper order (for single
phase inverters)
Inverter for outdoor use shall be suitable rated based on
Malaysia climate.
Gap maintained between power cables and signal cables
routing as per design document
The auxiliary power cables are connected properly
All cable terminations are done properly
Proper labelling of all the cables and components are done
Inverter factory settings are as per local utility guidelines
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR AC DISTRIBUTION BOX
Table 1.8 Checklist for AC Distribution Box (ACDB)

Instructions This form shall be filled-up for ACDB ID:
each ACDB
ACDB is properly mounted as per design document
Sufficient free space available around each ACDB
ACDB is properly earthed as per design document (if
applicable)
The connections for phase sequence L1, L2 & L3 are in
proper order (for three phase inverters)
The connections for L and N are in proper order (for single
phase inverters)
Incoming/outgoing cables are properly connected as per
approved schematic diagram
All cable terminations are done properly
Proper tagging of all cables and components are done
All cable glands are properly secured & tightened
Boxes for outdoor use shall be suitably rated based on
Malaysia climate
Comments:

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CHECKLIST OF CABLE IDENTIFICATION AND CABLE ROUTING
INSPECTION
Table 1.9 Checklist for cable identification & route inspection

All cable routed areas are properly marked on the ground
All power cable route & locations are as per drawing
All cables are properly tagged
All DC cables are meant for solar PV applications and as per
design document
Cable caution tape is used for all underground cables as per
design document
All trucking and conduits are installed as per design
document
Comments:

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CHECKLIST FOR WEATHER MONITORING STATION AND PV MONITORING SYSTEM
Table 1.10 Checklist for weather monitoring station and PV monitoring system
Description If the job has been done satisfactorily, please tick in the Date of inspection:
box. (dd_mmm_yyyy)
If not applicable, write ‘NA’ in the box.
An automated monitoring system is required and a close- circuit television (CCTV) system is
recommended
Local & remote communication & data logging system is available as per
design
document
The communication software test report as per design document
Identification marks on communication cable are available and as per

design
document
Communication system architecture diagram is displayed near the
computer
in the control room
Gap maintained between power cables and signal cables routing
All parameters are properly configured in the computer as per

requirement
Internet connection is available at the control room
Remote monitoring via internet or other means is available
Monitored data for Weather Monitoring Station (WMS) must comprise at

least:
- Solar irradiance on the horizontal
- Solar irradiance on the plane of array (for static and tracking systems)
- Ambient temperature
- Wind speed
Monitored data for system monitoring must comprise at least:
- Module temperature
- Inverter temperature
- DC electrical parameters such as voltages and currents for each string
- AC electrical parameters such as voltages and current from each
inverter
All weather monitoring system and PV monitoring system shall be
synchronized and
sampled at Five-minute intervals
All CCTV images are sampled continuously (if required)
All sensors are accompanied with test certificates and relevant documents
Comments:

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CABLE INSULATION TEST
Table 1.11 Cable Insulation test

CABLE ID Date of
inspection:
DESCRIPTION References (Please state) (dd_mmm_yyyy)
TEST POINT All new cables
Use appropriate tools to measure and record
Testing is performed on new cable Instructions:
installations to determine if the SWITCH OFF / DISCONNECT the
insulation has been damaged. following:
- PV AC Main Switch (Isolator)
- All AC switches
- All DC switches
- All DC fuses
Isolate all cables except for inter-module
connection
and earthing cables.
No. Cable from Cable to Insulation Pass Fail
(originating) (terminating) resistance
value
Please tick in the box)
Comments:

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STRING FUSE CONTINUITY AND STRING OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE TEST
Table 1.12 String and fuse and string open circuit voltage test
STRING Date of inspection:
CABLE ID (dd_mmm_yyyy)
DESCRIPTIO References (Please state)

N
TEST POINT Each Array Junction Box/String Monitoring Box
Test the continuity of each string fuse (Please OK: Not OK:
tick)
Determine the following: Solar irradiance should be at
1. Measured Open Circuit Voltage (Voc_mea) least 350
of each string. Wm-2 when performing this
2. Expected Open Circuit Voltage (Voc_exp) of test.
each string. Instructions:
3. % Difference between measured and SWITCH OFF / DISCONNECT
expected Voc. the
ACCEPT if following:
•% difference of Voc (between measured Voc - PV AC Main Switch (isolator)
and - All AC switches
expected Voc) with respect to expected Voc - All DC switches
is within - All DC fuses
• Voc measured of each string is less than
the maximum input voltage of the inverter
• Polarity of all DC cables (string and array)
is correct
String Voc of Voc Voc Measure Measure % Accept
No. string measure expecte d d differenc (A)
at d d module Irradianc e or
STC (V) temp e of Voc Reject (R)
(V) (0C) (Wm-2)
Measure
d

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Comments:

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STRING DC SHORT CIRCUIT CURRENT TEST
Table 1.13 String DC short circuit current test
STRING Date of
CABLE ID inspection:
DESCRIPTION References (Please state) (dd_mmm_yyyy)
TEST POINT ALL DC JUNCTION BOXES

Using appropriate method, determine the following: Solar irradiance should
1. Measured short circuit current (Isc mea) of each string be at least 350
2. Expected short circuit current (Isc_exp) of each string Wm-2 when performing
3. % Difference between measured and expected Isc. this test.
ACCEPT if Instructions:
 % difference of Isc (between measured Isc_mea and SWITCH OFF /
expected DISCONNECT the
Isc_exp) with respect to Isc_exp is within following:
- PV AC Main Switch
(isolator)
- All AC switches
AJB: Array Junction Box
- All DC switches
SMB: String Monitoring Box
- All DC fuses
Strin AJB/S No. of Solar Solar Measu Expect % Accept
g MB strings Strin irradian irradian re ed differen (A)
No. ID No. per g ce ce d Isc of Isc ce or
AJB/S no. (Wm-2) (Wm-2) string string of Isc Reject
MB (A) (A) (R)
Comments:

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ISOLATION DEVICE FUNCTIONAL TEST
Table 1.14 All isolation, switches and fuses
Date of
DESCRIPTION
inspection:
(dd_mmm_yyyy)
TEST POINT All isolators, switches and fuses
Please tick _ in the appropriate box Solar irradiance should be at least 350
Wm-2 when performing this test.
Instructions:
SWITCH OFF / DISCONNECT the following:
- PV AC Main Switch (isolator)
- All AC switches
- All DC switches
- All DC fuses
Accept Reject Note

No. Description
1 Confirm voltage is NOT present at array cable terminal at

AJB before all fuses are engaged
2 Confirm voltage is present at array cable terminal at AJB
after all fuses are engaged
3 Confirm voltage is NOT present at the outgoing terminal of
PV DC Main Switch when the switch is in OFF position
4 Confirm voltage is present at the outgoing terminal of PV
DC Main Switch when the switch is in ON position
AC Switch when the switch is in OFF position
6 Confirm voltage is present at the outgoing terminal of AC
Switch when the switch is in ON position
PV AC Main Switch when the switch is in OFF position
8 Confirm voltage is present at the outgoing terminal of PV
AC Main Switch when the switch is in ON position
Comments:
SIGNATURE
DATE
NAME
DESIGNATION CONTRUCTOR/NC-II HOLDER PHILIPPINE PV SYSTEM DESIGN CERTIFICATE HOLDER

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AND COMMISSIONING CHECKLISTISSIONING CHECKLIST
2. TESTING AND COMMISSIONING CHECKLIST
This activity shall be conducted by competent persons as stated at the end
of the checklist whilst adhering to the provisions of all relevant laws and
regulations.
After completion of the pre-commissioning checklist and tests, the service
provider must perform commissioning tests to ensure all inter-connections of
the components are satisfactory.
The commissioning test comprises the following:

1. Information about PV module
2. Information about PV array
3. Information about inverter
4. Inverter functional test
5. Acceptance test
Conditions:
1. All tests must be done in sequence.

2. If a test fails, the next test shall not be performed.
3. Failure of any test nullifies the entire Testing and Commissioning.
4. The Weather Monitoring Station and PV Monitoring System shall be
provided, installed and maintained by the FIAH for the entire duration of
the Deed in Approval.

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INFORMATION ABOUT PV MODULE
Table 2.1 Information about PV module
DESCRIPTION Visual Inspection Date of inspection:

If the job has been done (dd_mmm_yyyy)
satisfactorily,
please tick _ in the box.
If not applicable, write ‘NA’
in the box.
Item Details CHECK

No.
1 Module make & model
2 Power at maximum power WP

point (Pmp_stc)
3 Open Circuit Voltage V

(Voc_stc)
4 Short Circuit Current A

(Isc_stc)
5 Fill factor at STC -
6 Module efficiency at STC %
7 Temperature coefficient for %

Pmp ( at STC) PER
DEG
C
8 Temperature coefficient for %PER

Voc ( at STC) DEG
C
9 Temperature coefficient for %

Isc ( at STC) PER
DEG
C
10 Maximum system voltage V
11 Maximum reverse current A
Comments:

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INFORMATION ABOUT PV ARRAY
Table 2.1 Information about PV module
DESCRIPTION Visual Inspection Date of
If the job has been done inspection:
satisfactorily, (dd_mmm_yyyy)
If not applicable, write ‘NA’ in the
box.
INSTRUCTION This form shall be fill- Inverter Sub-array ID;
up for each connection ID:
to one inverter
Item Details CHECK

No.
1 No. of modules per PCS
string
2 Total no. of strings PCS
3 Total array power at WP

STC
4 PV array inclination DEG
5 PV array orientation DEG

(azimuth angle from
South)
6 No. of strings per PCS

Array Junction
Box/String
Monitoring
Box
7 No. of Array PCS

Junction
Box/String
Monitoring Box
Comments:

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INFORMATION ABOUT INVERTER
Table 2.1 Information about inverter

DESCRIPTION Visual Inspection Date of
If the job has been done inspection:
satisfactorily, (dd_mmm_yyyy)
If not applicable, write ‘NA’ in the
box.
INSTRUCTION This form shall be fill- Inverter
up for each ID:
connection to one
inverter
Item Details CHECK
No.
1 Inverter model
2 Normal AC power W
rating
3 Maximum AC power W
rating
4 Maximum DC voltage V
5 DC voltage range V
6 PMMT voltage range V
7 NO. of MPPT traders UNIT
Comments:

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INVERTER FUNCTIONAL TEST
Table 2.4 Inverter function test
FORMAT NO. Date of
DESCRIPTION REFERENCES
inspection:
(dd_mmm_yyyy)
TEST POINT All inverter

Please tick in the appropriate box
Solar irradiance should be at least 350 Wm-2
when
performing this test.
Instructions: SWITCH ON the system and
ensure that the
inverter is operating.
CAUTION: Before switching on the inverter,
make sure Voc
measured at the inverter input terminal must
be LESS THAN
the maximum allowable input DC voltage of
the inverter.
Value Accept Reject Reason
No. Description
1 Check whether the
measured
DC voltage falls within the
allowable MPPT voltage
range
of the inverter
2 Check whether the

measured
grid voltage and frequency
are
within the acceptable limit
Comments:

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ACCEPTANCE TEST
Table 2.5 System acceptance test
Inverter References Date of inspection:
ID (please state) (dd_mmm_yyyy)
Determine the following: Solar irradiance

1. Measured AC output power of inverter, Pac_mea should be
2. Expected AC output power of inverter, Pac_exp at least 350 Wm-2
3. Please declare the following: when
• Tolerance due to module mismatch : ________ performing this test.
• Soiling index : ________ Instructions:
• Ageing factor : ________ SWITCH ON the
• Cable loss : ________ system
• Maximum inverter efficiency : ________ and ensure that the
• Shading factor : ________ inverter is operating.
4. Acceptance Ratio (AR) : ________
Note: AR is the ratio of Pac_mea to Pac_exp
ACCEPT if
• AR is greater than or equal to 0.9
Inv Irradiance Measured Temperature Pac Pac AR Accept (A)

No. (Wm-2) module de-rating expected measured or
temp (0C) factor Reject (R)
…..
If AR is not acceptable, please troubleshoot the system, rectify the fault and repeat the test until all
parties are satisfied.
Comments:
SIGNATURE
DATE
NAME

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R
RELIABILITY RUN TEST
This activity shall be conducted by the competent persons as stated at
the end of the checklist whilst adhering to the provisions of all relevant laws
and regulations.
Upon the successful completion of the testing and commissioning
section, Performance Ratio (PR) is needed to be carried out.
The reliability of the system is tested by using the Performance Ratio Test.
During this test, the following real time parameters must be sampled at a
maximum of five-minute intervals for AT LEAST SEVEN consecutive days:
• Solar irradiance
• Ambient temperature
• Module temperature
• DC voltage of each central inverter or group of string inverters
• DC current of each central inverter or group of string inverters
• AC voltage from each central inverter or group of string inverters
• AC current from each central inverter or group of string inverters
All data shall be submitted to Distributor License Representative in csv format

immediately after the test.

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PERFORMANCE RATIO TEST
Table 3.1 Performance ratio (PR) test
Date of inspection:
(dd_mmm_yyyy)
TEST POINT AT MONITORING STATION/GRID INJETION POINT
TEST
DURATION
PREDICTED ANNUAL PR AT DESIGN STAGE:
Using the logged data for seven complete consecutive days during the reliability test period, determine
the following parameters for the entire system:
• Energy Yield, Yf
• Specific Yield, SY
• Performance Ratio, PR
Note: Inverter failure shall NOT occur more than three (3) times within the reliability test period
(excluding forced outages). If this happens, this test should be repeated.
Energy Yield Specific Yield Performance Accept (A) or Remarks
NO. OF (kWh) (kWh kWp-1) Ratio Reject (R)
DAY(S)
ONE WEEK
VALUE
Comments:
SIGNATURE
DATE
NAME
END OF DOCUMENTS

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Self-Check 5.1-2
Directions: Write the letter of the correct answer and write it to the answer
sheet provided.
1. It is a process by contractors or engineers to scrutinize a project before it
is commissioned or used and handed over to the owner?
A. Checking
B. Testing
C. Commissioning
D. Testing and Commissioning
2. Why does a project need to be inspected before it is handed over to the

owner?
A. For the safety of the owner on how to operate the project.
B. To familiarize the project
C. No need to read the manuals
D. All of the above
3. In which table of the commissioning documentation for the PV

installation stating that the inverter function test?
A. Table 1.7
B. Table 2.4
C. Table 3.1
D. Table 2.5
4. Who has the right to test and commission a solar PV system before it is
connected to the grid?
A. Engineers only
B. PV installer only
C. Engineers and accredited PV installers
D. Owners
5. When will the PV system testing and commissioning be done?

A. When it is already connected to the grid
B. When the owner wants
C. When you want to commission it because you are the expert
D. If it's done and not yet connected to the grid.
6. What does PRT mean in PV system terminology?

A. Performance ratio test
B. Power rating test
C. Power range testing
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D. None of the above
7. During the pre-commissioning checks, the PV systems______

A. Shall not be engaged to the grid.
B. Shall be engaged to the grid
C. Not properly connected to the grid
D. B and C
8. It is correct that the service provider must perform commissioning tests

to ensure all inter-connections of the components are satisfactory.
A. No
B. Yes
C. Never
D. Not sure
9. The commissioning document table 2.5 is_______?

A. System acceptance test
B. Performance ratio (PR) test
C. Inverter function test
D. All of the above
10. In getting performance ratio test of the PV system, how many

consecutive days needed?
A. At least seven months
B. At least 5 minutes
C. At least seven days
D. At least seven hours

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Answer Key No. 5.1-2
Directions: Write the letter of the correct answer and it to the answer sheet
provided.
1. D
2. A
3. D
4. C
5. D
6. A
7. A
8. B
9. A
10. C

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JOB SHEET No. 5.1-2
Commissioning Off-grid PV system
Learning Outcomes:
Learning Activity:
Read and understand the commissioning manuals for PV installations
Perform PV testing and commissioning systematically.
Test and check PV component using the commissioning checklist.
Submit all commissioning documents.
Equipment/Resources:
Checklist/Data sheets for testing and commissioning
Manuals
PV system component
Multi-tester
Basic tools
PPE/harness
Objective:
At the end of the activity the learner should be able to perform testing
and commissioning Off-grid PV system systematically.
Procedures:
• Print out all the documents discussed earlier.
• Your Facilitator will give you instructions how to test and
commission Off-grid PV system.
• With your documents for PV systems in hand, commission the off-
grid PV system in chronological order.
• All details must be listed and do not leave any blank.
• Sign the documents and submit it to your facilitator.

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ASSESSMENT CRITERIA CHECKLIST No. 5.1-2
CRITERIA YES NO
DID THE LEARNER…
1 follow the facilitator's instructions
2 complete everything on the checklist.
3 sign the documents
4 use proper tools during testing and commissioning
5 check all commissioning documents before start
6 kept all documents neat and tidy
7 submit the documents
8 wear complete PPE
Critical Aspects
▪ Satisfactory
▪ Not Satisfactory


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Common System/Equipment malfunctions
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to know the
common system/equipment failures/malfunction for PV system installation.
Definition of a PV module failure/malfunction

A PV module failure is an effect that (1) degrades the module power
which is not reversed by normal operation or (2) creates a safety issue. A purely
cosmetic issue which does not have the consequences of (1) or (2) is not
considered as a PV module failure. A PV module failure is relevant for the
warranty when it occurs under conditions the module normally experiences. A
problem that is caused by mishandling or by the local environment is not
considered to be a “failure” in this report. Here we give some examples. On the
one hand, soiling of the module or a failure due to lightning are not considered
to be PV module failures. The soiling problem has to be handled by the
operator and the lightning is a force majeure which the module is not designed
for. On the other hand, defects due to heavy snow load are considered as
module failure if the module is specified for heavy snow load.
There may be module defects which originate directly from its
production. These defects may be the reason for some modules not performing
as well as possible, but as long as the defect is not relevant to safety and the
power rating on the label takes account of the power loss caused by imperfect
production, this defect is no module failure if the defect does not accelerate
power loss or cause safety issues in the future. Moderate crystal defects in
multi-crystalline solar cells or striation rings in monocrystalline solar cells are
examples.
Other typical effects that change the module power and are not
considered as PV module failures are described in the following.
Light-induced power degradation in crystalline silicon modules due to
the well-known boron-oxygen complex [Bothe06] is defined as no module
failure, because the manufacturer has to take this effect into account for the
power rating of the PV module as it is defined in standard EN 50380 [EN

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50380]. It is a PV module failure if the manufacturer has not taken this effect
into account for the power rating.
Amorphous silicon (a-Si)-based modules are subject to a light-induced
initial degradation, which may account for a loss of power of up to 10-30%
within the first months of outdoor exposure [Shah10]. A part of this
degradation can be temporarily recovered by thermal annealing during the
warm months of the year. The two counteracting effects, light-induced
degradation and thermal-induced recovery, lead to a seasonal variation in
performance of 0-15% around an average value, which depends on the module
technology, local climatic conditions and type of integration [Fanni11,
Skoczek11].
The observed degradation is due to the well-known Staebler-Wronski
effect (SWE) [Shah10, Gostein11] studied since its discovery in 1977
[Staebler77]. Even if still not fully understood, the effect is reported to be
associated with light-induced defect centers that lower the carrier lifetime,
which can be partially reversed by thermal annealing at high temperatures.
Single-junction modules with thicker intrinsic layers are more affected
compared to technologies with thinner I-layers such as amorphous silicon
multi-junction modules and micro morph (microcrystalline/amorphous)
modules are even less affected. The higher the degradation rate is, the greater
is also the potential recovery.
The observed instability results in the requirement for stabilization before
determining the power of an amorphous silicon module by measuring the I-V
curve. The stabilization has to be performed according to the light soaking
procedure described in [IEC61646]. For amorphous silicon modules light
soaking mainly influences the fill factor (and consequently the module power),
to a minor extent the short-circuit current of a module and even less the open-
circuit voltage. Both initial and stabilize powers have to be stated on the
datasheet and nameplate as defined in the standard EN 50380 [EN 50380].
The change in power due to the SWE effect is here considered not to be a
PV module failure as long as the stabilized power of the PV module given by the
manufacturer is higher than or equal to the measured stabilized value.
Important PV module failures due to external causes Some failures are
typically difficult to define as a PV module failure or as a failure of the
contractor, of the installer or the system designer or even for other reasons.

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Here are the sample of common malfunction of PV system:
CLAMPING
Clamping A relatively often seen failure in the field is glass breakage of
frameless PV modules caused by the clamps. Glass modules are more sensitive
to glass breakage. The origin of the failure is, on the one hand, at the planning
and installation stage either (a) poor geometry for the module, e.g. sharp edges,
(b) too short and too narrow clamps [Dietrich08] or (c) the positions of the
clamps on the module not being chosen in accordance with the manufacturer’s
manual. The second origin, which induces glass breakage could be excessively-
tightened screws during the mounting phase or badly-positioned clamps
[Urban09].
Glass breakage leads to loss of performance in time due to cell and
electrical circuit corrosion caused by the penetration of oxygen and water vapor
into the PV module. Major problems caused by glass breakage are electrical
safety issues. Firstly, the insulation of the modules is no longer guaranteed, in
particular in wet conditions. Secondly, glass breakage causes hot spots, which
lead to overheating of the module.
TRANSPORT and INSTALLATION

Transport [Reil10, Koentges11] and installation [Olschok12] are the first
critical stages in a PV module’s life. The glass cover of some PV modules may
break or cells in the laminate may break due to vibrations and shocks. In the
former case it is easy to attribute the glass breakage to the transportation or
installation. This is clearly no PV module failure. However, the cause of cell
breakage is much more difficult to decide. Visually it cannot be seen and in
many cases, it cannot be detected by a power rating of the PV module directly
after occurrence of the cell breakage.
Some typical situations leading to cell cracks but not necessarily to glass
breakage are:
1. A PV module falling over.
2. An insufficiently rigid pallet touching the lowest PV module in the
stack during transportation.
3. Too tight transport corners in the transport stack. During de-stacking
of the top module of the stack the second uppermost module is also
lifted and suddenly drops down.
4. Someone steps on the PV module.

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5. Even in well-designed transport containers, the cells of PV modules
may crack during “normal” transport.
QUICK CONNECTOR FAILURE

Quick connector failure the quick connector electrically connects solar
modules to each other, to fuse boxes, to extension cables, combiner boxes and
to the inverter. This element is very important for the safety and reliable power
generation of the system. However, there is very little literature on the
reliability of quick connectors available in the PV community. Low-voltage DC
connectors as a special kind of contact pair are also frequently discussed in
respect of (electric vehicle) automotive as well as PV applications. Electrical
contacts in general are considered at electrical contact conferences [Schoepf12]
with several contributions concerning PV systems. For a brief introduction to
the subject, see publications by Rieder [Rieder00, Rieder01].
In most cases problems caused by the quick connector are not
considered a PV module failure. Typical failures are caused by using not
exactly fitting quick connectors of different types or inaccurately crimped quick
connectors to connect PV modules to extension cables, the fuse box, combiner
box or the inverter at the installation site.
Ill-fitting or not well-crimped quick connectors may cause a total power
loss in a whole string. In even worse cases, they can cause electric arcs and
thus fires. In many cases, the quick connectors are much closer to flammable
material such as wooden roof beams or heat-insulation materials than the PV
module laminate. A statistical review of fire sources in 75 PV systems, which
caught fire, shows that the chance of the quick connector causing the fire
(29%) is nearly as high as for the rest of the module (34%) or other parts of the
PV system (37%) [Schmidt13].
Despite the safety relevance of quick connectors there is, as yet, no
standardized quick connector. Quite the reverse - there are many very similar-
looking and even apparently fitting quick connectors on the market, which
must not be combined. Currently, only a draft version of an international PV
connector standard [IEC62852] exists, while a European standard for PV
connectors, EN 50521 [EN50521], has been available since 2008, based on the
more general IEC 61984 [IEC61984].
LIGHTNING
Lightning A defective bypass diode caused by a lightning strike is caused
by an external source, for which the module is not designed. However, this
effect has often been found and may cause subsequent safety failures, but the
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PV module is not the source of the failure. Typical induced defects caused by a
lightning strike are open circuit bypass diodes or a mechanically broken PV
module directly hit by the lightning strike. Both defect types may cause hot
spots as subsequent failures.
DEFECT
Defect is everything in a PV module that is not as it is expected to be. A
defect may imply a PV module failure or not. A defect is a much broader term
than a failure. A defect does not necessarily result in a safety or power loss for
a PV module but specifies a part of a PV module that is different from a perfect
PV module.
Some visible defects in PV modules are bubbles, delamination, yellowing,
browning, bending, breakage, burning, oxidization, scratches; broken or
cracked cells, corrosion, discoloring, anti-reflection and misaligning.

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Self-Check 5.2-1
TEST I: Enumerations:
Direction: List down the visible common defect of the PV
panels/modules
1.
2.
3.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
TEST II: Multiple choice

Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer.
1. Is transportation and installation also a reason for the PV system

installation to malfunction?
A. No
B. Yes
C. Extra care
D. Never mind it
2. A ______is an effect that degrades the module power which is not

reversed by normal operation?
A. PV module failure
B. PV module function
C. PV module operation
D. All of the above
3. ______a relatively often seen failure in the field is glass breakage of

frameless PV modules caused by the clamps.
A. Clamping
B. Installation
C. Transportation
D. Lightning

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4. . A_______does not necessarily result in a safety or power loss for a PV
module but specifies a part of a PV module that is different from a perfect
PV module?
A. Clamping
B. Defects
C. Malfunction
D. Failure
5. How do you take care of a PV equipment to avoid failures?

A. Install it quickly
B. Take good care of it from loading and unloading until installation
C. Let others interconnect and install to prevent malfunction
D. Let the experts do it.

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TEST I: Enumerations:
Direction: List down the visible common defect of the PV
panels/modules.
1. bubbles
2. delamination
3. yellowing
4. browning
5. bending
6. breakage
7. burning
8. oxidization
9. scratches
10. broken or cracked cells
11. corrosion
12. discoloring
13. anti-reflection
14. misaligning
TEST II: Multiple choice

Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer.
1. B
2. A
3. A
4. B
5. B

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Corrective Maintenance
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to:
1. Be familiar with maintenance activities for PV system
2. Carry out maintenance activities for PV system
Corrective maintenance
It consists of the setup of a breakdown system. It is usually done in two

stages: palliative corrective maintenance (fixing) which involves the start off of a
system which is partially or totally broken up while waiting for a permanent
repair of this system. In this case, the speed with which interventions are done
is considered, and the action must take place as fast as possible for quicker
start off of this system. The goal of this action is not to repair the breakdown
but to permit the system to fulfill part or the totality of it function. Curative
corrective maintenance (repairing) is a final setup of all the worn-out elements
of the system. Contrary to the fixing action, the repairing action is a planned
one. In this case, the quality of the intervention is more important than speed.
In the case of corrective maintenance on photovoltaic systems, diagnosis
diagrams are first done in order to ease and help workers to determine the
worn-out elements knowing the causes of the breakdown. The essence of the
approach “run-to-failure” or corrective maintenance is to replace the
component with a new one when it is not able to perform its function
Corrective Maintenance is required to restore the harm or exchange of
failed components. It is feasible to function some corrective upkeep such as
inverter resets or communications resets remotely. It covers the activities
performed by the Maintenance team in order to restore a PV plant system,
equipment or component to a status where it can perform the required
function. Corrective Maintenance includes –
1. Fault Diagnosis: Also called troubleshooting to identify fault cause

and localization. A monitoring solution like Track so helps in fault and
anomaly diagnosis by providing high-frequency data of the assets
present on the solar PV site so that the problems can be tracked at an
early stage and solved accordingly.
2. Temporary Repair: to restore the required function of a faulty item for
a limited time, until a Repair is carried out
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3. Repair: to restore the required function permanently
The scope of Corrective Maintenance activities and its “border” or
definition with respect to Preventive Maintenance requires specific attention
and it should be properly defined in the maintenance contract. For easier
understanding, an example is presented below:
Example- A cable termination tightening activity using a torque device for
the correct fixation should be under the Preventive Maintenance scope of
works, but depending on the quantity and/or frequency, it could be considered
a Corrective Maintenance activity.
Corrective maintenance is a reactive measure and it takes place after a
failure detection either by remote monitoring and supervision or during regular
inspections and specific measurement activities. A major benefit of practicing
corrective maintenance is that it helps solve a live problem at the site so that
operations can continue functioning smoothly. And although a certain amount
of reactive maintenance will likely be necessary over the course of a plant’s 20-
year lifetime, it can be lessened through more proactive Preventive
Maintenance and condition-based maintenance strategies.
Fault Diagnosis for PV systems

Faults in any components (modules, connection lines, converters,
inverters, etc.) of photovoltaic (PV) systems (stand-alone, grid-connected or
hybrid PV systems) can seriously affect the efficiency, energy yield as well as
the security and reliability of the entire PV plant, if not detected and corrected
quickly. In addition, if some faults persist (e.g. arc fault, ground fault and line-
to-line fault) they can lead to risk of fire. Fault detection and diagnosis (FDD)
methods are indispensable for the system reliability, operation at high
efficiency, and safety of the PV plant. Different methods proposed in literature
for FDD of PVS are reviewed and discussed; particularly faults occurring in PV
arrays (PVA). Special attention is paid to methods that can accurately detect,
localise and classify possible faults occurring in a PVA. The advantages and
limits of FDD methods in terms of feasibility, complexity, cost-effectiveness and
generalization capability for large-scale integration are highlighted
Items that may need serviced or replaced on your solar energy system
include:
• Inverters, microinverters and optimizers
• Breakers and fuses
• Solar panel connections - MC4 connectors
• Inverter filters, screens and fans
• Networking and monitoring equipment: update network credentials,
cables, screens
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• Metering equipment and components: CT's, meters, wiring
Can solar Inverters be repaired?

Solar inverters can be repaired; but the nature of the fault, the
availability of spare parts, the status of the original manufacturer and the
overall build quality of the inverter will determine whether or not a lasting
repair is viable
Solar Generation Meter Not Working
No Display: If the display of the solar generation meter has stopped working
than either
• The generation meter is broken and will need to be replaced
• There is no power getting to the unit.
Display Works but Doesn't Count: If the display works but doesn't count
than either
• The generation meter is broken and will need to be replaced
• There is no power getting to the unit to be counted being provided from
the solar system.
Generation meter replacements are a relatively inexpensive and common repair

but sometimes what appears to be a faulty generation meter can be an
indication of faulty or damaged wiring elsewhere.
Damaged and Faulty Solar Panels - Solar Panel Replacement

If any solar panel is damaged or faulty then in most systems (those
where panels are wired together in strings) there is a good chance that the
solar PV system will see a significant reduction in overall power generation. A
damaged or faulty solar panel can't always be seen but it can be identified
through testing. The ideal fix is to replace the panel with a correctly specified
and well sized new one or to rewire in order to exclude the damaged panel.
Can solar panels be repaired? If the glass has been broken then the
panel is no longer viable and should be safely removed and recycled. If the
damage is to cabling or a faulty junction box then there is a good chance that
these could be replaced/repaired and the panel recommissioned.
Maintenance Log Book

A maintenance schedule and equipment logbooks should be provided as
part of the documentation supplied to the customer at the completion of
system installation and commissioning.
A loose-leaf folder can be used as the system log book with individual
sheets added for each item. In cases where different contractors are used e.g.
the generator maintenance is undertaken by a diesel mechanic, then separate

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log books are normally used. All maintenance contractors must keep a record
of service and repair work. Copies must be also retained by the customer and
in the case of subcontracting, by the primary maintenance contractor.
Log books can be particularly useful because the historical information
they contain can show changes over time, as well as abnormal variations from
the usual, indicating a problem, or a problem in the making.
Batteries
The batteries are the most maintenance intensive component in a stand-
alone power system. Please remember that batteries are dangerous so ensure
that all tools are suitable for undertaken maintenance and that the room is
well ventilated and that there is no build-up of hydrogen before entering the
room.
The following maintenance should be undertaken at reasonable intervals.
Battery maintenance should be undertaken at least every 6 months with the
following exceptions: -
1. After the initial installation, it is recommended that the Specific
Gravity readings (for wet lead acid battery installations) are taken
monthly to ensure that the system is charging the batteries
adequately. Once the customer is satisfied then this could be
undertaken along with all the other maintenance.
2. Some wet lead acid batteries might require that the electrolyte level is
checked monthly or quarterly.
Battery Bank maintenance should include: -
• Read and record electrolyte density - specific gravity (flooded batteries)

• Check and record cell voltage
• Check electrolyte level, top up where necessary - record water usage
• Check all battery connections and cable terminations for security and
corrosion
• Check for mechanical damage to battery cells or cases
• Clean batteries and battery area

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Sample of a maintenance log sheet for battery

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Solar Array
The solar array should undergo the following maintenance. In brackets is

the period recommended by the Australian Standards.
• Clean modules (quarterly)

• Check mechanical security of the array structure (quarterly)
• Check all cabling for mechanical damage (quarterly)
• Check output voltage and current of each string of the array and
compare to the expected output under the existing conditions (quarterly)
• Check electrical wiring for loose connections (annually)
• Check the operation of the regulator (annually)
The array maintenance sheet should be included in a log book. A sample is

shown in
Sample Solar Array Log Sheet
Inverters
Inverters generally require very little maintenance. This generally relates to

the following:
• Keeping the unit clean and minimize the possibility of dust. Clean when
required
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• Ensuring the unit is not "invaded" by insects and spiders.
• Ensuring all electrical connections are kept clean and tight.
Regulators
Regulators like inverters, being a completely electronic unit only require
very little maintenance. This generally relates to the following:
• Keeping the unit clean and minimize the possibility of dust. Clean when
required
• Ensuring the unit is not "invaded" by insects and spiders
• Ensuring all electrical connections are kept clean and tight
System Integrity
Maintaining System Integrity
The above maintenance checks relate to the individual components that
are contained with a system. For the individual components to work as a
system they have been interconnected by both power cables and control cables.
It is therefore essential than when you are undertaking any equipment
maintenance a visual check should be undertaken on the whole system to
ensure that there is no potential threat to the performance and/or safe
operation of the system.
In general, this is just applying common sense but some of the potential
hazards that could have been introduced since the system was installed
include:
• Customer installing other tools etc. in battery enclosure in a potential

hazardous way.
• Locks not working such that animals etc. have access to critical
components egg inverters
• Conduits containing cables have been damaged

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Self-Check 5.2-2
Enumeration: Give what is being ask in the following:
1. Give at least 3 maintenance activities regarding the following
a. Battery
i.
ii.
iii.
b. Solar Panel
i.
ii.
iii.
c. Inverters
i.
ii.
iii.
d. Regulators
i.
ii.
iii.

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Answer Key 5.2-2
1. Give at least 3 maintenance activities regarding the following
a. Battery
i. Read and record electrolyte density - specific gravity (flooded
batteries)
ii. Check and record cell voltage
iii. Check electrolyte level, top up where necessary - record
water usage
iv. Check all battery connections and cable terminations for
security and corrosion
v. Check for mechanical damage to battery cells or cases
vi. Clean batteries and battery area
b. Solar Panel
i. Clean modules (quarterly)
ii. Check mechanical security of the array structure (quarterly)
iii. Check all cabling for mechanical damage (quarterly)
iv. Check output voltage and current of each string of the array
and compare to the expected output under the existing
conditions (quarterly)
v. Check electrical wiring for loose connections (annually)
vi. Check the operation of the regulator (annually)
c. Inverters
i. Keeping the unit clean and minimize the possibility of dust.

Clean when required
ii. Ensuring the unit is not "invaded" by insects and spiders.
iii. Ensuring all electrical connections are kept clean and tight.
d. Regulators
i. Keeping the unit clean and minimize the possibility of dust.

Clean when required
ii. Ensuring the unit is not "invaded" by insects and spiders
iii. Ensuring all electrical connections are kept clean and tight

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COMMON TROUBLES of PV SYSTEM
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to
determine the common problem of the PV system.
Nine Common Problems with Solar Panels

Over the past few decades, solar panels have become an outstanding
investment for many people. They offer a raft of benefits to both commercial
properties and residential homes. And since they rely on the sun instead of the
grid, they help preserve natural resources and the environment.
Solar panels are pretty low-maintenance, so if you decide to go with a
solar power system, you should be able to reap the benefits without much
upkeep. That said, however, nothing is foolproof. Problems can develop, so if
you ever notice anything amiss with the way your system is functioning, you
should act immediately before problems worsen.
Here are the most common problems affecting solar panels:
Delamination and internal corrosion

If moisture finds its way into the panel, it can cause internal corrosion.
To avoid this issue, ensure that your panels are keeping out air and water and
that all the components of the solar panel are laminated under vacuum
pressure
Electrical issues
Faulty wiring prevents your solar panels from performing well. Loose
connections, corrosion, and oxidation may interfere with electricity production.
Unless you know what you are doing, or perhaps you are a qualified electrician,
don’t try to tamper with the wiring system on your own. In fact, in some
countries, if you are not a licensed electrician, tampering with solar panel
wiring is an offense. Contact a licensed electrician to have everything checked
properly.
Micro-cracks
Micro-cracks are a common issue with solar panels and can compromise
the effectiveness of your system. These are tiny cracks on the panel and are
hard to notice with your naked eyes. But with time and significant weather
changes, the cracks can grow. The cracks mostly occur due to PV module
production and thermal and seasonal conditions. They can also result from
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careless handling during the shipping process. That is why it is important that
you hire a trustworthy professional to handle the shipping and installation
with the utmost care.
Hot spots
Hot spots are among the most common issues with solar or PV systems.
They can degrade the function of your solar panels and even render them
irreparable. Hot spots occur when panels get too warm and overload. They are
caused by several things, including the accumulation of dirt on the panels.
They can also be caused by badly soldered connections, which result in low
resistance in the part of the panel that generates power. This problem can
lower the performance and lifespan of the solar panels.
PID effect
PID stands for Potential Induced Degradation. It can occur due to the
voltage difference between the earthing and the solar panel. When this
happens, the primary power circuit ends up producing partial voltage
discharge. PID effect may degrade the efficiency and performance of the panels
and lower their lifespan. Luckily, a solar professional can help to reverse or
prevent the problem.
Birds
Those lovely little birdies tweeting overhead can wreak havoc on solar
systems. They can nest beneath the panels and keep the system from doing its
job properly. Thus, if you notice birds gathering on your roof, consider bird
roofing solutions like spikes, mesh wire, and more.
Snail trails
Another common solar panel problem is known as “snail trail”
contamination. The name here comes from the brown lines that show up on
your panels, giving the appearance that snails have traversed the surface. Snail
trails usually only manifest after a few years and are caused by several factors,
including defective silver paste (which is used in the manufacture of the
panels). This, in turn, causes moisture, which results in oxidation between the
encapsulation material and the silver paste. Also, snail trail contamination may
result from microscopic cracks in the PV system. The problem reduces the
performance of the solar system and causes it to fail prematurely.
Roof issues
The solar system should not affect the integrity of your roof. Conversely,
it can serve as a nice layer of protection for the roof materials below. However,
in some cases, the installation can hurt your roof in some way. Make sure that
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you inspect your roof from time to time, and call your PV system installers if it
seems to be compromised in any way.
Common Problems with Solar Charge Controller

Solar panel controller’s common problems are charging current too
small, no charging, battery back depleting too first, or load cannot work. If you
are experiencing this, it is time to test and troubleshoot your solar charge
controller.
Common Troubles with an inverter

An inverter is a very important device which everyone must own for their
homes as well as the offices. This device helps you to get electricity in the most
important appliances when there is no power otherwise. But what if your
inverter encounters some problems and thus doesn’t work properly? Well this
could lead to several issues such as no lights, no microwave power and several
others. Thus, it is best to know the common inverter problems along with their
solutions so that you can resolve the issues yourself. They are given as follows:
Inverter not turning on

Inverter not turning on is one of the most common inverter problems.
The few possible causes for the same include tripped inverter, battery
disconnected, battery terminals loose, weak battery, discharged battery or
battery terminals are reversed etc. In case the power switch is defective you
must take it to service center for repair. In case of faulty battery, replace it
however if the inverter is tripped then you may need to press the trip reset
button given on the device to reset it. If your battery has gone weak, then it is
advisable that you charge it for a few hours. Else if it is old, then it is a good
idea to replace it altogether. if the terminals of the battery are loose, check
them for corrosion and give them a good cleaning before clamping them firmly.
Battery is not getting charged

Another one of the common inverter problems is battery not getting
charged. One reason for this could be a dead battery and in this case the
battery must be replaced. Other possible causes for this could be burnt
rectifiers, melted fuses and loose battery connection. In these cases, you must
either get professional help or check battery terminals for corrosion
Shortened backup time

Another problem which an inverter can encounter is shortened backup
time. This could be due to too much power consumption and in such a case,
you must remove the extra load. If battery is not properly charged, then even in
that case this problem could crop up. Also, if the battery has lost electrolyte,

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then the backup time may become shortened. In this case, top up battery with
distilled water regularly. remember that the water level must be maintained
between the maximum and minimum water limit.
Power inverter working in just the inverter mode

If this problem comes up, then either the input is not connected or the
fuse must have melted. Check the power cable and change the fuse
respectively for the above given reasons for a power inverter working just in the
inverter mode. However, if the cause is input protector being effective, then you
must reset it. An input protector is basically a protector circuit which saves
the inverter in case of high voltage conditions. Some other causes for this
common inverter problem include low input and high input etc. What happens
is that in case of low input, the Inverter does not switch to main power supply
and hence works only in inverter mode. you may need to make sure that you
choose a wide range from the UPS if this is the reason for the unit working in
inverter mode only. You can also get a stabilizer installed to fix the issue of
voltage
Alarm beeping continuously

A lot of times, the alarm of the inverter may keep beeping continuously.
In such a case, the possible cause could be either overload on the inverter or a
stuck cooling fan. Disconnect all the extra load in case of overload. If the
problem still doesn’t get resolved, then you may have to take the inverter to the
service center or contact a professional for help. Every inverter has a cooling
fan which needs to run as long as the unit is operating. if the cooling fan is not
able to maintain a temperature cool enough for safe working, the inverter will
shut off automatically or it will give out an audible alarm to inform you that the
device needs to be turned off. Similarly, if the fan gets stuck due to some
reason and is not able to cool off the inverter, the unit will give out an alarm so
as to notify you to shut it off.
Power inverter LCD displays false codes

Another common problem related to inverters which you may experience
is LCD displaying false codes. In this case, either there is some internal
problem in which the inverter circuit may need to be replaced or there is an
external issue. If the issue is external, then you may need to check the battery
cables, the output and input wires and load etc.
Noise coming out from Power inverter

Sometimes, you may also hear some noises coming out from your power
inverter. It is important to know that every inverter gives out some wind noise
which is normal. However, if you hear the noise from the fan then your fan may

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need some cleaning through professionals. In some of these cases, the fan may
need to be replaced as well to solve the issue.
Protective Devices Issues

There are two circuit breakers used in the installation of solar PV
systems these are, AC and DC circuit breakers.
A circuit breaker is an electrical device used to protect the electrical
circuit from shortening due to overload and short circuit.
If a circuit is overloaded, the breaker will trip and cut power to eliminate
the risk of fire. However, sometimes it can trip even when there is no overload,
and that could mean you have a faulty breaker. Below are a few ways that
indicate a breaker has actually gone bad
The Breaker Resets Temporarily

If a breaker trips immediately or a few minutes after resetting, either the
breaker is bad or there is too much electricity passing through it. Some
electrical appliances such as heaters and irons consume considerable current.
Therefore, if possible, move these devices to a different circuit and check if this
solves the problem. If it doesn't, the breaker could be faulty and needs to be
replaced.
The Circuit Breaker Trips without a Load

If your breaker is tripping with no load, it means the breaker is faulty,
installed incorrectly, or you have an arcing fault in the wiring. To ascertain the
cause, call a licensed electrician for assistance.
The Circuit Breaker Doesn't Trip at All

If the breaker doesn't trip that means the contacts got welded together,
and the only option will be to replace the circuit breaker. Nevertheless, this is a
rare occurrence since the contact material doesn't easily weld.
Other ways to spot a bad breaker include:

• A burning smell from the breaker
• Burnt spots shocks and sparks from the breaker
• The breaker is too hot to touch
Although small, never underestimate the functions of a circuit breaker

because it can be the difference between the safety of yourself and your
property. Always have them checked more often by a licensed electrical
company to ensure they're in good functioning condition at all times
Installation Wires Management Issues

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Cross-mating
Refers to the plugging of connectors from different manufacturers
(between modules to optimizers/microinverters, modules to field-connectors,
optimizers to field connectors or field connectors to the BOS system) is one of
the most common PV wiring mistakes. In fact, the EU-funded Solar Bankability
Project’s Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), which sourced data from
over 1 million documented insurance claims, showed that “different kinds of
connectors” (cross-mating) had the highest risk potential in PV installations,
and it wasn’t even close.
The reason for the risk here is connectors from different manufacturers
have different dimensions, materials and engineering tolerance. The slight
variation between different manufacturers can result in higher contact
resistance (heat), water intrusion or unexpected deterioration of contact or
plastic parts.
“Each connector has different critical dimensions and even using the
most precise calipers to copy connectors still doesn’t guarantee a secure
connection,” says Dean Solon, CEO and founder of Shoals. “Secondly, these
connector manufacturers do not always utilize the same metals or procure
their contact terminals from the same vendor. As a result, mixing dissimilar
metals will unquestionably lead to thermal events [read: fires]. Pre-fabricators
or field installers should use the opposite polarity from the same connector
manufacturer used on the module datasheet. If it is not explicitly stated what
type of connectors are being used on the module datasheet, reach out to the
module manufacturer to identify.
UL1703/6703, IEC 62548 and IEC 62852 (EN50521) testing does not
allow for cross-mating. The good news is this is an easy problem to avoid
during project planning. When designing or purchasing modules, field-
connectors, inverter and optimizers and BOS systems, one needs to make sure
that all connectors are coming from the same manufacturer. If you are using
connectors labeled “MC4 compatible,” be sure to obtain a written statement
from both manufacturers
Skimping
One of the most common issues in solar installations occurs when wire
management is seen as an optional expense or somewhere to save on
installation costs.
“The long-term system and maintenance costs that result from poor wire
management practices far outweigh the effort required to implement a proper
solution,” notes Sarah Parsons, Wiley product manager at Burndy. “Supporting
PV wires at required intervals with listed solutions made from environmentally
rated materials [such as stainless steel or UV-rated polymer] is the only way to
align the lifetime of the wires with the intended system lifespan.

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This goes for the cables too. Jeff Wang, business development alternative
energies – North America for Stäubli Electrical Connectors, recommends using
only black XLPE cables and tin-plated copper cables.
“Color cables don’t survive the UV for the lifetime of PV system,” he says.
“Incorporating carbon black in polyolefines greatly increases the UV resistance,
and carbon black acts as UV absorbent and screens the polyolefine from the
damage of UV lights. Bare copper starts to react violently with oxygen when
temperatures reach 90 degrees. It forms copper oxide and greatly reduces the
current carrying capacity of the wire. In outdoor environments where there is
humidity and high temperature, tin-plated wire is the sure choice.
Misapplication of components
Similar to No. 1, but more specifically: Understand the details of securing
wire safely or choose a fastener that is tolerant of a wide variety of installation
methods. For example, when putting metal-coated or plastic ties through sharp
module mounting holes. With low-cost plastic ties, you should know exactly
what you are getting as a system designer, which is a solution that could last
as little as a few months. A metal coated product can lead to far greater
damage than just product failure, like wire damage.
“In choosing a particular material or type of wire management
component, metal tends to be more forgiving to install but less forgiving to the
cable if installed improperly,” says Nick Korth with HellermannTyton. “Plastic
wire management runs the opposite, requiring more care to design and install
but is ultimately kinder on cable insulation. These considerations are an
important part of your wire management strategy to ensure a long-term solar
installation.”
Heyco sees a lot of installations where side-to-side cable retention cannot
be achieved simply because of the mechanics of the part being used. For
example, a standard cable tie is only going to provide so much side-to-side
cable retention before it begins to sag throughout the array. Most PV module
clips come with a unique spring retention tab that accommodates a variety of
wire diameters while still providing side-to-side retention on the cable.
In large-scale applications, trends of higher voltages and the use of more
string inverters out in the field call for a complementary update in wire
management.
“Solar installations are now carrying energy as high as 1,500 volts with
current approaching 1,000 amps, and it is critical for life safety issues to
properly house the power cables to ensure a safe working environment for the
solar technicians,” says Roger Jette, president of Snake Tray. “With more
inverters in use, AC and DC cables need to be carried through a cable
management infrastructure versus using hooks.”

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Not planning for landscape
Module manufacturers are designing positive and negative leads
anticipating they will be installed in portrait, though most rooftop installations
are in landscape. Some 72-cell modules are manufactured with leads that do
not reach adjacent modules in landscape, making it impossible to string a row
together.
“These short leads force installers to wire in columns on a landscape
rooftop system,” says Jonah Coles, product solutions manager with Ecolibrium
Solar. “In this situation, choose a racking system with built-in features to
secure wires across the inter-row space. This will make stringing columns as
easy as stringing rows.”
Another challenge is that dual junction boxes with a short lead on each
side of the module are becoming more prevalent. This makes wiring especially
challenging when using optimizers and microinverters because both leads need
to be brought to the optimizer or microinverter, which also makes wiring in
landscape more difficult.
“Consider these factors when choosing modules. Make a string map to
organize the wiring path based on the module you are using,” Coles says.
“Then choose a racking system with flexible wiring options and have your
racking solution quoted to include wire clips. These planning tips will avoid
delays by providing installers with a solid plan and the appropriate material to
get the job done.”

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Self-Check No. 5.2-3
Directions: Choose the letter of the correct answer.
1. It is referring to the plugging of connectors from different manufacturers?

A. Common failures
B. Misapplication of components
C. Cross-mating
D. Skimping
2. What do mean by PID effect?

A. Potential Induced Degradation
B. Potential Induced Deliberations
C. Potential Induction Decertation
D. Potential Induction Program
3. One of the common problems of the solar panel that when panel get warm
and overload, what is it?
A. Hotspot
B. Micro-cracks
C. PID effects
D. Birds issues
4. Can moisture cause corrosion of the PV components?

A. Maybe
B. No idea
C. Yes
D. Maybe yes
5. In common practice, how to avoid the common problem of PV system?

A. Inspect all equipment carefully and perform proper installation
according to standard.
B. Avoid exposing and contaminating PV installation equipment such as
solar panels.
C. Install equipment even if not according to standard.
D. Disregard standard procedures as long as it works and is available
6. It is the most common issues in solar installations occurs when wire

management is seen as an optional expense or somewhere to save on
installation costs.
A. Skimping
B. Discoloration
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C. Hotspot
D. Bends
7. If the circuit breaker is always tripping, it means that?

A. The breaker is faulty, installed incorrectly, or you have an arcing fault
in the wiring.
B. No fault occur
C. The amperage is not match to the load
D. All of the above
8. What would you do if the DC circuit breaker you use in the PV installation
always tripped even without loads?
A. Wait until burned
B. Call a registered electrician
C. Remove the circuit breaker and replaced it
D. Let another coworkers notice
9. Which of the following statement is not the ways to spot a bad circuit
breaker?
A. Burning smell from the breaker
B. Burnt spots shocks and sparks from the breaker
C. The breaker is too hot to touch
D. Using five senses to determine the bad circuit.
10. Is an electrical device used to protect the electrical circuit from shortening
due to overload and short circuit?
A. Transformer
B. Inverter
C. Circuit Breaker
D. Capacitor

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1. C
2. A
3. A
4. C
5. A
6. A
7. A
8. C
9. D
10. C

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TROUBLESHOOTING TECHNIQUES
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to learn

some techniques in troubleshooting of PV components.
Solar Power System Troubleshooting

It should be appreciated that Trouble Shooting and Fault Finding are
very practical skills which cannot be taught in written material alone. This
module presents guidelines and some pointers that may be of assistance. The
factors contributing to the development of these skills are:
• A thorough understanding of how the components work individually, and
how the system, including interaction with the user, work as a whole.
• Training by the manufacturers on the individual components.
• On-the-job experience.
• Using commonsense, logic and intuition to determine what might be
happening with the system.
Batteries
From experience, it is fair to say that many system problems are a result
of loose battery connections or "dirty" or corroded terminals. In general, the
maintenance technician will be required to test the batteries when the
customer has lost power and they say the battery voltage is low.
The following procedures/tests are recommended for testing a battery
bank. It is expected that the installer/maintenance technician will know what
to do when a fault is found.
• Check that all terminal connections are tight and clean.
• Measure the battery voltage for the whole bank at the output
terminals, with no load or low load on the batteries.
• If the battery bank terminal voltage is as expected then the fault
could be in the wiring to the loads or charging devices; or the fault
may only appear under load.
• Measure the cell voltages for each individual cell. Excessive variation
between cells could indicate inadequate charging or problems
developing with some cells.
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• If flooded batteries are used, measure the specific gravity (SG) for
each of the cells. If the battery bank SG's are as expected, then the
fault could be in the wiring to the loads, charging devices or the fault
only appears under load. Excessive variation between cells could
indicate inadequate charging or problems developing with some cells.
• A quick check for valve regulated cells is to use the rule of thumb
that SG = open circuit cell voltage - 0.84. For mono-blocks containing
2 or more cells, the terminal voltage of the block should be divided by
the number of cells.
• If the voltages and SG's appear OK under no load or low load, the
voltage of each cell should then be measured under heavy load. One
battery cell might have a short circuit which only appears under
load.
Solar Array
If the solar array does not appear to be producing the same current under
similar light conditions as it did in the past, then it is generally one of the
following:
• Modules are now shaded for some reason e.g. trees grown
• Modules or parts of them are covered in dirt, bird dropping etc. or are
damaged
• There is a loose connection in the wiring system or a hot joint has
occurred and the cable has failed.
• The regulator is faulty
• Diodes have failed in some modules
• Module has degraded (e.g. de-lamination)
• Module has failed.
• The logical process is to check the system in the following order:
• Look for dirt on modules or objects shading the modules
• Check the operation of the regulator (see section 1.2)
• If it is not obvious that it is either the shading of the modules or the
regulator, the service technician must then find whether the fault is in a
module (or modules) or in the interconnection wiring.
• If there is a main junction box, check this for any loose wires.
• Check the output from each module string. This will narrow the search.

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• The performance of each string is compared using open circuit voltage,
short
• circuit current and current produced under load. A small dummy load
(approx. 1A) is often sufficient. Once an underperforming string is
identified the same procedure is used to identify the faulty module/s in
that string.
If the problem appears to be located in the modules, the faulty string can
be identified by successively shading a module in each of the strings and
observing the array ammeter. When a covered string produces no change or
less change in array current than other strings, it is likely to be faulty. Further
successive shading of modules within the identified string can locate the
particular module with the fault, or there is no difference between them, the
difference is in the interconnecting wiring. This procedure may be complicated
by the regulator coming in or out of operation. This problem can be avoided by
doing the test when the batteries are not fully charged, or by placing a heavy
load on the system to ensure that the regulator is always passing the full array
current.
Inverters
The inverters that are commonly used in hybrid systems are
microprocessor controlled and very sophisticated. The main role of the inverter
is to provide 240V AC (or 3 phase 415V in larger systems) from the DC battery
voltage. Obviously if the inverter is not providing an AC voltage, it has failed.
This failure could have occurred from a simple loose connection or from
a circuit breaker failure or it could have been from a faulty power board or
boards. In addition, many of the hybrid inverters provide control for the power
system and therefore the failure may not be in supplying the AC power but
failing to control the system correctly.
The technician must have a very thorough knowledge of the inverter and
its operation before fault finding can be attempted, however, the obvious
should be checked first, such as tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse, or signs
of overheating such as smoke, blackened or melted parts. At very remote sites,
the manufacturer may be willing to provide advice over the phone.

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Regulators
Many of the regulators that are available today are microprocessor
controlled and can require extensive programming on commissioning. It is
critical that any installer or maintainer of systems is completely familiar with
the regulator they have installed or are testing.
Anecdotal experience suggests that problems with regulator operation
have been due to incorrect programming by the installer, rather than a faulty
regulator.
The main faults that will occur in a system that will require that the
solar regulator be tested are:
• Batteries are low in voltage but there is plenty of sunshine.

• The customer has complained that the inverter or other equipment has
shut down due to low or high battery voltage.
• Meters that are recording solar current do not show any current at all
during the day.
• The regulator has completely failed and no indicating lights, meters etc
on the regulator are working.
Before testing whether the regulator is working the following two tests
should be undertaken:
• Measure the battery voltage at the terminals on the regulator that are
specified for battery connection.
• Measure the array voltage at the terminals on the regulator that are
specified for array connection. (Ensure that it is the array voltage and
not just the battery voltage being impressed on these terminals:
isolate one or other side of the regulator if necessary).
If there is no or low voltage at either of these points then the fault is not
in the regulator but somewhere else in the system e.g. faulty connections on
the regulator, battery or solar array.
If there is voltage on both sets of terminals and you suspect the regulator is
faulty, it is generally only in two ways
• Failed open circuit (i.e. it will not pass the solar power to the batteries)
• Failed closed or short circuit (i.e. it does not regulate the power and is
always passing the power through to the batteries).

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The easiest way to test for the above is to turn the regulator off (disconnect
solar first followed by batteries), wait a few minutes then turn back on
(batteries first followed by solar). If battery voltage is near nominal and the
array terminals are still showing the array open circuit voltage, or an amp
meter shows no charge current, then the regulator appears to have failed open.
Unfortunately, the only way to test whether the regulator has failed closed is
to charge the batteries until they have reached the boost voltage and then see if
the regulator enters the float mode. If the regulator has failed, it generally is
replaced and not repaired.
System Integrity
Troubleshooting the Whole System. The sections above on fault-finding
briefly detail the common faults with the individual items. In general, the
customer will complain that they do not have any power at all.
This could have resulted from:
• Failure of any one (or more) particular item
• Failure of the interconnection wiring between the system components.
• The customer using more power than the system was originally designed
for.
The last point should not cause a stand-alone power system to fail because
the hybrid controller should have started the generator, however the third
failure could lead to customer complaints about the genset running too long.
In general, it is good practice to develop a trouble shooting flow chart,
incorporating all of the elements listed in this Unit, plus any details specific to
the particular equipment used. This must identify the tasks that the customer
can safely perform, as well as work that must be performed by suitably
qualified personnel.
It is recommended that the system maintainer undertakes individual
training on the various items and therefore becomes very familiar with the
equipment to be able to offer the customer excellent service when fault.

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Self-Check 5.2-4
Enumeration: Give what is being ask in the following:
1. Give at least 3 activities to test battery for faults
a.
b.
c.
2. Give at least 3 reasons why would a solar array might fail to produce
electricity or a decrease in output.
a.
b.
c.
3. Give at least 3 main faults that occur in a system that will require the
solar regulator to be tested.
a.
b.
c.

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Answer Key 5.2-4
1. Give at least 3 activities to test battery for faults
a) Check that all terminal connections are tight and clean.

b) Measure the battery voltage for the whole bank at the output
terminals, with no load or low load on the batteries.
c) If the battery bank terminal voltage is as expected then the fault
could be in the wiring to the loads or charging devices; or the fault
may only appear under load.
d) Please refer to Information sheet 4.1-2
2. Give at least 3 reasons why would a solar array might fail to produce
electricity or a decrease in output.
a) Modules are now shaded for some reason e.g. trees grown
b) Modules or parts of them are covered in dirt, bird dropping etc or are
damaged
c) There is a loose connection in the wiring system or a hot joint has
occurred and the cable has failed.
3. Give at least 3 main faults that occur in a system that will require the
solar regulator to be tested.
a) Batteries are low in voltage but there is plenty of sunshine.

b) The customer has complained that the inverter or other equipment has
shut down due to low or high battery voltage.
c) Meters that are recording solar current do not show any current at all
during the day.

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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE OF THE SYSTEM
Learning Objective:
After reading this information sheet, you should be able to perform the
proper procedures in cleaning and maintaining the PV system.
Preventive maintenance
Preventive maintenance consists of a regular observing passage and a
frequent replacement of exhausted constituents of the system. Preventive
maintenance can be systematic or conditional. Systematic preventive
maintenance consists of changing worn out materials according to a
preestablished schedule. Preventive maintenance is scheduled at regular time
intervals, independent of component wear, or if it still executes its function
satisfactorily. Preventive maintenance scheduling could be done using several
strategies; the most common are usually with a minimal cost target that are
based on the budget allocation for maintenance in accordance with the system
priorities. The objective of this type of maintenance.
WHAT IS PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE OF PV SYSTEM?

Preventative maintenance is just what it sounds like; a maintenance plan
and sequence designed to ensure all system components are functioning as
they should be, and to prevent any technical issues from deteriorating the
system. Solar arrays should undergo a preventative maintenance inspection at
least once a year, or more often depending on system size.
In a standard preventative maintenance inspection, the technician
examining the system will perform a comprehensive test of all physical and
electrical components of the array. This includes a focus on the physical panel
and racking setup, a review of all electrical connections and strings, evaluation
of the utility meter connections and reports, and inspection and maintenance
of the inverter according to manufacturer specifications, among other more
specific tests. If any of these inspections yield issues or suggest something
might be wrong with the array, corrective maintenance measures will be
applied.
The use of renewable energies has increased, these recent years since it
is demonstrated that the access to modern forms of energy can contribute
effectively to the revival of economy and reduction of poverty. In many
countries around the world, the use of renewable energy contributes expanding
employment opportunities which lead to promoting human development.
Recently the use of renewable energy, which has led to the creation of a
directorate of renewable energy in the ministry of energy and water.
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Investments have been made in the public investment budget (PIB) for the
installation of renewable energy systems particularly solar energy, for example,
public lighting in cities and the countryside by using solar street lights, solar
power plants for the villages’ electricity supply, battery charging stations in
villages, and solar power supplies for community centers. However, as they are
installed in outdoor environment, continuous exposure to harsh environmental
conditions (sun beam, rainfall, etc.) may reduce the optimal performance of the
system. PV systems are difficult to implement because they encounter
problems among which is the problem of servicing and maintenance. An
effective operation and maintenance (O and M) program enables PV system
production to reach its expected level of efficiency, which will consequently
strengthen end users’ confidence in such systems.
The field performance of photovoltaic systems has been extensively
studied for many applications especially in countries with strong database of
solar resource. However, these databases are used exclusively for assessing the
electrical performance of the system. To model the annual performance of
photovoltaic modules, their performance characteristics are needed. The
available information from manufacturers are typically limited to temperature
coefficients, short circuit current (Isc), open circuit voltage (Voc), and maximum
power (Pmax), at rating conditions (G = 1000 W/m2, Tc = 25°C, AM = 1.5). The
information is useful when one want to compare photovoltaic module
performance at rating conditions but are inadequate to predict annual field
performance under typical operating conditions. It is demonstrated that there
is difference between expected power production forecasts and field experience
of photovoltaic arrays. It has been shown that the relative performance ranking
at rating conditions may not agree with the ranking based on monthly or
annual performance. Faults in PVS may cause a huge amount of energy loss. A
monitoring study was conducted on a test PV system by Firth et al., and it was
reported that the annual power loss due to various faults is about 18.9%.
Failures that occur in the PV systems can cause system shutdown. The
main components involved are PV modules, cabling, protections, converters,
and inverters. Failures are mainly caused by external operating conditions
which are shading effects, module soiling, inverter failure, and aging of PV
modules. The line-to-line fault (LLF), ground fault (GF), and arc fault (AF) are
tree catastrophic failures encountered in PV arrays. PV system maintenance
and performance are related to good inspection and monitoring. These are
important in determining life-cycle costs and servicing requirements.
Photovoltaic energy is seen as a viable option for decentralized energy
production; the sustainability of these systems does not only depend on the
initial system cost but also on the cost of maintenance and the lifetime related
to the maintenance operations used.

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Why undergo preventative maintenance?
The overarching goal of preventative maintenance is to ensure maximum
yield, system uptime, and efficiency of a solar array. By maintaining the system
on a regular basis, it stays in better working condition, and ensures potential
malfunctions are effectively managed.
Properly functioning solar arrays contribute consistent financial value to
their owners. If a technical issue arises, a portion of that value is lost. By
investing in a preventative maintenance program, a solar array owner protects
his or her investment, ensuring optimal system output and therefore financial
benefit.
It’s easy to sit back and forget about maintaining your solar array.
However, without routine maintenance, the probability increases for a larger
issue to arise, which could substantially impact your overall production or the
safety of the system. In order to optimize system performance, and thus ROI, it
is important to participate in preventative maintenance for your array.
The cleaning and maintenance of solar panels.

Rooftop solar panels may become dirty as a result of exposure to dust
and pollution.
With that being said, is it necessary to clean solar panels? Does dirt
interfere with solar energy production? Don’t the wind and rain provide
sufficient cleaning? Should this task be carried out by a specialized cleaning
company?
• Solar panel cleaning: this entails washing the panels like
windows. The cleaning may be combined with preventive
maintenance of the solar collectors.
• Solar panel maintenance: this refers to technical maintenance
carried out by a professional and should ideally take place once a
year
The reason why photovoltaic panels must be cleaned is to ensure solar
panel efficiency. An unclean panel runs the risk of producing less electricity
and thereby reducing the profitability of the installation.
For that matter, the cleaning and maintenance of solar panels encompasses
all types of solar installations, including:
• Photovoltaic solar panels.
• Thermal solar panels.
• Hybrid solar panel.

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When to call upon the services of a solar cleaning company
Enlisting the aid of a solar panel cleaning company is a reasonable
choice for very large installations known as solar farms or solar parks.
Why is that? Because if we build off the premise that unclean solar
panels deliver a -5% solar output, this translates into a significant energetic
shortfall in the context of a very large installation. -5% is an average
calculation presented by the International Solar Energy Society. Declined
efficiency will be discussed in more detail in a later paragraph regarding
verification through monitoring
Apart from this scenario, a residential user need not necessarily secure
the services of a cleaning company as long as the panels are slightly tilted. If
the panels are laid flat, there is a higher chance of dirt build-up.
When all is said and done, cleaning solar panels is an uncomplicated
procedure that you can take care of just as well as a professional. If you have a
small installation, it pays off to clean it on your own because the cost of
professional cleaning would exceed the estimated energy gain associated with
clean solar panels.
As a matter of fact, you may also ask your solar installer to clean your
panels while he is performing routine technical maintenance. He can execute
this task in complete security.
How frequently should solar panels be cleaned and maintained and

during what time period?
Ideally once a year

In truth, there is no regulatory maintenance frequency to adhere to
with respect to your solar installation (whether photovoltaic or thermal). It
all depends on where it is installed and how rapidly it accumulates dirt.
All the same, you should aim for an annual inspection as part of a
maintenance contract with your solar installer. At any rate, this is what we
advise our DualSun clients to do. Therefore, cleaning can also occur at this
time.
In reality, the cleaning frequency of a solar installation depends on its
location. A solar panel will certainly accumulate dirt more quickly if it is
particularly exposed to agricultural dust, bird droppings, sand or pollution.
Alternatively, a long period of drought can also contribute to dirt build-
up on the panels seeing as they do not benefit from a natural rain rinse.

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Types of solar panel maintenance operations
Verification through monitoring
Apart from a visual appraisal of your collectors, the best way to know if
your solar panels need to be cleaned is by verifying your solar output. Has it
decreased due to unclean solar panels? If that is the case, a lower-than-normal
output level will notify you that it is time for a cleaning.
The DGS eV, which is the German section of the International Solar
Energy Society, states the following in the Photovoltaic Guide: on average, an
unclean photovoltaic solar panel generates 2 to 7% less energy than a clean
panel.
However, a very sharp drop in production levels is more so indicative of a
technical problem. Therefore, if efficiency levels drop by more than 10%, you
should have your system serviced by a professional.
Your solar monitor provides all these details. Simply log in to your online
interface and verify your energy output data.
The tools needed to properly clean photovoltaic panels
To clean the surface of the panels, all you need is soft, lukewarm water
and a non-abrasive sponge. Nothing more.
Please be aware that applying cold water to a warm panel could result in
thermal shock, thereby damaging your panel. Furthermore, cleaning with hard
water may leave white residue on your glass panels and thus affect their
performance.
If possible, use a telescopic pole to avoid taking the unnecessary risk of
climbing onto your roof.
Last but not least, it almost goes without saying that you should avoid
leaning too heavily on your panels.
What to avoid when cleaning solar panels
Certain cleaning products can damage the solar panels and should therefore
be avoided:
• Hard water. It can leave white residue that diminishes photovoltaic
output.
• Abrasive sponges. They may scratch the panels.
• Very cold water: Using very cold water on a warm panel can result in
thermal shock and permanently damage the solar panel.

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• Very high-pressure water. This can damage the joints in the panel
frame. Kärcher-type high-pressure cleaners must therefore be avoided.
• Solvents and detergents. Such products may damage the surface of
the solar collectors.
Photovoltaic cleaning and maintenance

As we previously stated, solar panels can only perform at an optimal level
if they are clean and free of any object or element that could block the sun’s
rays. This includes shade!
In France, there is sufficient wind and rain to adequately clean and rinse
off photovoltaic solar installations, but you may also wipe down the panels with
a sponge if you wish.
As far as maintenance is concerned, it serves to remind that photovoltaic solar
panels do not require any special technical maintenance.
That’s right. They are extremely reliable and sturdy— and can operate for
up to 30 years! All you need to do is ensure an occasional verification of the
cables, the output meter, and the inverter. A mere glance at the monitor will
alert you to an unexpected drop in production levels.
Thermal solar panel cleaning and maintenance

The cleaning procedure is similar to that of any other panel type.
However, this type of solar installation requires rigorous thermal maintenance
based on recommendations outlined by each manufacturer in part. These are
specified in the care and maintenance manuals.
The thermal maintenance of an installation is carried out by a solar
installer once a year, at which time he:
• Verifies the water pressure by using the pressure gauge to ensure
that it is not less than 1 bar. If the pressure sits below 1 bar, this
could jeopardize the circulation of the glycol water and negatively
affect the entire solar installation.
• Controls the quantity of glycol, which is the antifreeze found in the
panels. There must be enough glycol to prevent the panels from
freezing in the winter.
• Monitors the operation of the installation’s safety devices, such as
the mixing valve at the outlet to the domestic hot water tank or the
solar safety valve.
• Ensures that the installation is perfectly sealed and waterproof.
Confirms the absence of fluid leaks on the accessible portions of
the system.
• Verifies the pump, the expansion tank, and the electrical
connections.

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All actions performed on the thermal installation must be recorded by
the installer in a maintenance notebook and safeguarded so as to ensure
precise tracking throughout the service life of the installation.
Hybrid solar panel cleaning and maintenance

The distinguishing feature of hybrid solar panels is that they combine
two systems in one: photovoltaic panels on the front and thermal panels on the
back, towards the roof.
Hybrid solar panels are cleaned in the exact same way as a photovoltaic
or thermal panel, meaning with soft, lukewarm water and a non-abrasive
sponge.
As far as of the photovoltaic side is concerned, this procedure is identical
to that of a classic panel, which consists of verifying the cables, the production
housing, and the solar inverter.
Maintenance of the thermal side is similar to that of a thermal solar
installation. This advantageous feature preserves the heat transfer fluid as well
as the panel components for a longer period of time, rendering it unnecessary
to replace components and therefore drastically reducing maintenance costs.
Please note that a solar panel maintenance guide is made available to
anyone who wishes to install.
Inverter and housing maintenance

To begin with, we remind that the solar inverter is an indispensable part
of a solar installation which converts direct current output into alternating
current. It also comes in a smaller format, called a micro-inverter.
Maintaining an inverter is a hassle-free task. Once a year, the air inlets
must be cleaned so that the device can cool down properly. The indicator lights
and various displays must also be checked at this time.
This procedure limits the decreased productivity of the device at the end
of its service life. It should be noted that a solar inverter has an estimated
service life of about 10 years. In addition to being cleaned and maintained, it
will need to be replaced at least once during the service life of the photovoltaic
system.
Last but not least, we turn our attention to the other connector
housings. Their maintenance consists of dusting off and verifying the indicator
lights.

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
Self-Check No. 5.2-5
TEST I:MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. How many years is the estimated service life span of an inverter if it is in

proper cleaning and maintenance?
A. 5 years
B. 6 years
C. 10 years
D. 20 years
2. Will preventive maintenance help the life span of PV components?

A. Nothing to say
B. Yes there is.
C. There is no reality
D. Study before you speak
3. Does cleaning solar PV panels need lukewarm water?

A. Yes
B. No
C. No evidences
D. None at all
4. Avoid using hard water because…….

A. It can leave white residue that diminishes photovoltaic output.
B. There is no reality
C. White residue cause by water can absorb the energy.
D. the white residue of the water will reflect the electricity generated by the
PV Panels
5. It is referring to technical maintenance carried out by a professional and

should ideally take place once a year?
A. Corrective Maintenance
B. Preventive Maintenance
C. Maintenance
D. Solar Panel maintenance
TEST II: Enumeration

1. Give five things to avoid when cleaning solar PV systems

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
TEST I: MULTIPLE CHOICE
1.C
2.B
3.A
4.A
5.D
TEST II: Enumeration
1. Hard water
2. Abrasive sponges
3. Very cold water
4. Very high-pressure water
5. Solvents and detergents

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
LO2. INSPECT AND NOTIFY COMPLETION OF WORK
1. Final inspection is undertaken to ensure that commissioning of PV

system meets job requirements
2. Commissioning document is accomplished and written report is
prepared using the prescribed format and submitted to the
supervisor
3. Work completed is notified to a supervisor and customer according
to established procedure
4. Proper housekeeping is observed and practiced in accordance with
occupational health and safety standards
5. Customer is oriented on the use of the installed system according
to company procedures and manufacturer’s instruction.
CONTENTS:
Prepare work completion report
CONDITION:
• Supplies and materials

• Tools • Checklists
- Spirit level • Forms
- Pull and push rule • PV Panel
- Smart phone (GPS, • Inverter
angle meter • Charge Controller
application, compass • Backup Battery
application) • Battery fluid
- Compass • PV wires
- Hydrometer
• MC4
- Battery cell tester
• Fastening clamps
- Multi tester
(digital/analog) • Screws/ bolts n nuts
- Amp meter • PV rails
• Terminal blocks
• Y terminal

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
• Learning Materials
- CBLM
- Books, manuals, and
catalogs
- Videos tutorials
METHODOLOGIES:
• Demonstration
• Lecture-discussion
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
• Written examination
• Interview/oral questioning
• Demonstration

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
Learning Experiences
Learning Outcome No. 2
Inspect and notify completion of work
Learning Activities Special Instruction
3. Perform Task Sheet 5.2-1

Prepare Commissioning Report
4. Evaluate work using

Performance Criteria Checklist 5.2-1

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PTC - Rosario
Task Sheet 5.2-1
Title: Prepare Commissioning Report

Performance Objective:
Given the necessary tools, equipment and materials, you should be

able to prepare commissioning report.
Supplies:
• Screws/ bolts
• Checklists • Charge
n nuts
• Forms • Controller
• PV rails
• PV Panel • Backup Battery
• Terminal
• Inverter • Battery fluid
blocks
• Fastening • PV wires
• Y terminal
clamps • MC4
Equipment:
• Multi tester • PPE

• Pull and push rule • Line man’s pliers
• Screw driver • Diagonal cutting pliers
• Compass • Long nose pliers
Procedure:
1. Prepare Commissioning Report by filling out PV System Installation

Commissioning Report.
a) Test batteries
b) Inspect Panel
c) Inspect Inventers
d) Inspect Charge Controller
2. Fill out Remarks section and ask your trainer to check it.
Assessment Method:
Portfolio Assessment, Demonstration w/ oral questioning

Testing and
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Testing and
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Testing and
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Performance Criteria Checklist 5.2-3
Trainee’s Name: _______________________ Date: ___________________
Criteria Yes No
Did I….
Test/check PV components
• PV Panel
• Battery
• Inverter
• charge controller
Accomplish PV System Installation Report
Fill out remark section/ prepare report
Comments/Suggestions:
Trainer: ________________________ Date: _____________________

Testing and
PTC - Rosario
References:
https://news.dualsun.com/installation-maintenance/cleaning-
maintenance-solar-panel/
solaric.com.ph
https://solect.com/preventative-maintenance/
[Dunlop06] E. D. Dunlop and D. Halton, The performance of crystalline silicon
photovoltaic solar modules after 22 years of continuous outdoor exposure, Progress
in Photovoltaics 14 (2006), pp. 53-64, doi 10.1002/Pip.627
[Hasselbrink2013] E. Hasselbrink, M. Anderson, Z. Defreitas, M. Mikofski, Y.-C.
Shen, S. Caldwell, A. Terao, D. Kavulak, Z. Campeau, D. DeGraaff, Site Data
Validation of the PVLife Model Using 3 Million Module-Years of Live, Proc. 39th
PVSC (IEEE, Tampa, FL, USA, 2013) in press
[Ishii11] T. Ishii, T. Takashima, and K. Otani, Long-term performance
degradation of
various kinds of photovoltaic modules under moderate climatic conditions, Progress
in Photovoltaics 19 (2011), pp. 170-179, doi 10.1002/Pip.1005
[Jordan13] D. C. Jordan, J. H. Wohlgemuth, and S. R. Kurtz, Technology and
Climate Trends in PV Module Degradation, Proc. 27th EUPVSEC (WIP, Frankfurt,
Germany, 2013), to be published
[Sanchez-Friera11] P. Sanchez-Friera, M. Piliougine, J. Pelaez, J. Carretero, and
M. S. de Cardona, Analysis of degradation mechanisms of crystalline silicon PV
modules after 12 years of operation in Southern Europe, Progress in Photovoltaics
19 (2011), pp. 658-666, doi 10.1002/Pip.1083
[Vazquez08] M. Vazquez and I. Rey-Stolle, Photovoltaic module reliability model
based on field degradation studies, Progress in Photovoltaics 16 (2008), pp. 419-
433, Doi 10.1002/Pip.825

Testing and
PTC - Rosario

Pvsi NC Ii CBLM Core Competency 5 Perfor PV Systems Testing and Commissioning

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COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS

SECTOR : CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Welcome to the module in “PERFORMING PV SYSTEM TESTING and

The unit of competency “PERFORM PV SYSTEM TESTING and

You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

No Unit of Competency Module Title Code

1 PERFORM BASIC PERFORMING BASIC

PERFORM SITE PERFORMING SITE CON724325

5 PERFORM PV SYSTEM PERFORMING PV SYSTEM CON724328

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

At the end of this module you MUST be able to:

1. Prepare to commission PV system

• Work instructions are validated to ensure clear understanding of job

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

1. Work instructions are validated to ensure clear understanding of job

• Commissioning procedures for PV system

• Equipment • Supplies and materials

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Learning Outcome No. 1

Prepare and Commission PV System

Learning Activities Special Instruction

1. Read Information Sheet 5.1-1

3. Read Information Sheet 5.1-2

4. Answer Self-Check 5.1-2

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES for PV SYSTEMS

Testing and Commissioning Once all equipment has been installed, a

Final Installation Checkout

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Photovoltaic Systems should also be evaluated and verified during visual

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Write true if the statement is correct and false if it is not.

1. Commissioning of PV systems involves visual observations as well as

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Commissioning procedures for PV systems

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Make sure to use proper meter settings for DC

Test after connecting PV modules in series and

Learner’s Name: Date:

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Fuses are not connected

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Test after connecting PV modules in series and

Learner’s Name: Date:

Date Developed: Document No. PTCR-PVINCII-

Fuses are not connected