ENERGY EFFICIENCY STUDIES ON SOLAR FARMS

Abstract

This study examines the impact of maintenance on the energy efficiency of a solar park, focusing on its efficiency factor. The study highlights how dust accumulation, component failures and unplanned downtime negatively affect the efficiency of a solar park. An experimental approach was used, collecting data for two years, initially under standard maintenance conditions, and then following an enhanced maintenance programme. The capacity factor was calculated from the operational data and statistical analysis confirmed the effect of the maintenance improvements. The results showed a significant increase in the capacity factor of the fleet, from 13.8% to 15.9%, resulting in an additional 1.5 GWh of electricity production per year. The analysis confirmed that the cleaning of the solar modules and maintenance of the equipment reduced the efficiency losses, improved system uptime and increased energy production.