Summary of photovoltaic inverter commissioning work

Why is commissioning a PV system important?

Commissioning is important not only for photovoltaic (PV) system performance, but also for longevity of equipment, safety, ROI, and warranties. PV system site survey using the Fluke irradiance meter with mounting bracket to validate panel performance.

What does commissioned PV mean?

INTRODUCTION Commissioning is the process of assuring that a PV plant is safe, meets design objectives, and functions and produces energy in accordance with the owner’s expectations. If a PV system is commissioned according to industry standards, then it must be performing as expected, right? Not necessarily.

What is a commissioning inverter?

Many incentive programs, certification entities and installation manuals use the term commissioning generically to describe a set of start-up or closeout pro-cedures. In this informal context, a system installer might verify field connec-tions and ac and dc voltage levels before “commissioning” an inverter.

Do PV system commissioning standards require performance testing?

This best practice guide is PV System Commissioning or re-Commissioning Guide Supplement to characterize and maximize PV system performance. If a PV system is commissioned using industry standards, then it should produce as much energy as was expected, right? No, PV industry commissioning standards do not call for performance testing.

What is PV plant commissioning?

According to PV plant commissioning practitioners and specialists, such as Enertis, DNV GL and Alectris, commissioning is also key phase from a contractual point of view, whereby the title of the project transfers from the contractor to the owner, documented in the form of a provisional acceptance certificate (PAC).

Do PV systems need independent commissioning & verification?

Every project pursuing LEED certification is subject to independent commissioning and verification require-ments. Many financial backers of large PV systems require independent third-party commissioning to validate their investment.