It is already the 6th year that we have the Silicon irradiance sensors( PV reference cell) for an O&M in Foggia that manages 60 MW of plants: the ones managed by them stand out by the performance (around 84% and more) of the plants.
Their approach remains consistent. Operating costs are high, yet despite being built over eleven years ago, their plants still appear remarkably up to date. They conduct regular checks on AC/DC systems, inverter cabinets, and modules, ensuring extremely low response times. Additionally, they continuously calculate the Performance Ratio using multiple redundant irradiance sensors placed on the module plane (P.O.A.). They also maintain at least one spare part for each strategic component of the plant.
In the end, besides receiving a substantial fee for each megawatt managed, this O&M provider also benefits from several performance-based incentives when results exceed contractual thresholds (details omitted here for confidentiality please contact me directly for further information).
This has been their model for years. After all, it’s a win–win situation: the more the owner earns, the more the O&M provider benefits as well.
A few days ago, the technical manager of the plants called, sounding a bit resentful. The Si irradiance sensors we had just calibrated were showing 5 to 8 watts more than those still to be calibrated. Dr. Calatroni’s perspective was: “If they notice a deviation of only 0.5%, it suggests perfect mastery of the system.” In short, the system’s precision exceeds even the requirements set by ISO 61724-1:2017 Photovoltaic System Performance, as well as the newly released ISO 61724-1:2021.
