Quality connectors are essential in O&M services, says Empower director

O&M (operation and maintenance) services in solar power plants are a crucial step to ensure the efficiency, longevity and return on investment of these projects. 

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However, one of the aspects that often goes unnoticed is the quality of the Connectors used in photovoltaic systems.

These components, responsible for connecting the modules, inverters and other equipment in a power plant, are directly linked to the reliability and safety of the system. 

Poor quality or incompatible connectors can cause problems such as overheating, electrical performance failures and, in more serious cases, power outages or safety risks. 

In an interview with Canal Solar, Eduardo Maia, director of Empower Engenharia, shares his experience on the importance of connectors in the context of O&M. 

With over seven years of partnership with recognized brands in the sector, he explains how the appropriate selection of these components can directly impact the efficiency of plants and maintenance costs. 

Check out the main excerpts from the interview below: 

How important is O&M for the solar energy sector?

Proper operation and maintenance begins with the design of the project. This involves everything from analyzing the terrain, choosing the equipment and components, and defining the companies and service providers that will work on the construction and operation of the plant. 

It is a process that begins years before the project is delivered. Today, the market is maturing and understanding that O&M is not just the final stage, but an element that must be considered from the beginning of the plant's development.

Many professionals still have the impression that O&M is all about cleaning modules. Is this correct?

Absolutely not. A solar power plant is not only made up of the main equipment, but also the connections between them. Each connection point between modules, inverters and other components is critical to the plant’s performance. These connection points need to be reliable and durable to ensure efficient energy delivery throughout the project’s lifespan, which can be 25 to 30 years.

What happens when you opt for lower quality connectors?

The main problems are premature degradation, such as oxidation, and incompatibility with connectors already embedded in the modules and inverters. This can compromise the durability and performance of the plant. A low-quality connector can generate failures over time, putting energy delivery and operational safety at risk.

What connectors does Empower Engenharia currently work with?

We have been working with Stäubli since before Empower was founded. Personally, I have had experience with the brand for seven years. It is a partnership of trust.

Why did you choose Stäubli?

For reliability and durability. Stäubli has been in the market for over 120 years and stands out as the most reliable brand in the photovoltaic sector. We are absolutely certain that, even in 20 or 25 years, we will continue to count on this partnership.

Cables and connectors are still neglected, says Staubli manager

What is Empower's current portfolio?

In three years in the market, we have accumulated around 2,5 GW of projects in operation with our participation, in addition to another 300 MW under construction. We also work in consulting, basic projects and optimizations, totaling 16 GW over this period. We serve the entire country, from Amazonas to Rio Grande do Sul.

Is Stäubli present in all these projects?

Always. We recommend and reinforce to our customers the importance of suitable connections. Stäubli always comes first in this choice.

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