Operation and Maintenance Guidelines of Grid Connected PV Plants
1. For the optimal operation of a PV plant, maintenance must be carried out on a regular basis.
2. All the components should be kept clean. It should be ensured that all the components are fastened well at their due place.
3. During mandatory O&M period of 5 years, the rooftop solar PV plant has to be maintained by the vendor for the activity assigned to electrician/technician.
The user shall be suitably guided by the vendor for all tasks lying in scope of the user and the user shall also be provided with appropriate documents for such guidance.
SOLAR PANELS
Although the cleaning frequency for the panels will vary from site to site depending on soiling, it is recommended that
i. The panels are cleaned at least once every fifteen days.
ii. Any bird droppings or spots should be cleaned immediately.
iii. Use water and a soft sponge or cloth for cleaning.
iv. Do not use detergent or any abrasive material for panel cleaning.
v. Iso-propyl alcohol may be used to remove oil or grease stains.
vi. Do not spray water on the panel if the panel glass is cracked or the back side is perforated.
vii. Wipe water from module as soon as possible.
viii. Use proper safety belts while cleaning modules at inclined roofs etc.
ix. The modules should not be cleaned when they are excessively hot. Early morning is particularly good time for module cleaning.
x. Check if there are any shade problems due to vegetation or new building. If there are, make arrangements for removing the vegetation or moving the panels to a shade-free place.
xi. Ensure that the module terminal connections are not exposed while cleaning; this poses a risk of electric shock.
xii. Never use panels for any unintended use, e. g. drying clothes, chips etc.
xiii. Ensure that monkeys or other animals do not damage the panels.