The maintenance routine in solar plants is often treated as a technical detail. But in practice, it is these actions that guarantee the longevity, safety and performance of photovoltaic systems. To demonstrate this in a concrete way, Canal Solar followed a series of tests carried out in a real plant, led by engineer Geraldo Silveira, from CS Consultoria.
During the tests, three essential O&M (Operation and Maintenance) procedures are presented: module cleaning, thermographic inspection and IV curve testing. The objective of the CS Consulting was to demonstrate how the correct application of these techniques can directly impact system performance.
The cleaning of the modules, for example, was carried out with specific equipment that uses only water, without chemicals. The practice, although simple, is often neglected and can represent significant losses in generation. In places with accumulation of dust, pollution or soot, dirt reduces efficiency and compromises light absorption by the panels.
Another highlight of the video is the thermographic inspection performed with a drone. The technique allows for the rapid and precise identification of hot spots in the modules — signs of failures or degradation that, if left untreated, could compromise the safety of the installation. Thermal images reveal areas of overheating, requiring immediate attention from the O&M team.
Already curve IV test, performed directly on the system strings, is one of the most reliable tools for evaluating the electrical performance of the photovoltaic array. From it, it is possible to detect losses, connection failures or problems in specific modules. According to Geraldo Silveira, “the IV curve allows a detailed diagnosis of the electrical health of the system, something that the naked eye cannot see”.
A demonstration of the three procedures reinforces the strategic role of preventive maintenance. For those who work with the operation and maintenance of solar plants — or wish to better understand the technical aspects of these structures — the content is an invitation to responsible practice. More than generating energy, it is necessary to ensure that it is produced efficiently and safely.
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