Don't Be Left Wondering About Your System
Independent system assessments are becoming more common in commercial solar as the industry and technology continue to rapidly change. Whether to assess the workmanship of your vendors or diagnose a possible problem with your installation, Vigilant Energy Management's team is here to provide you with impartial, independent reporting so you can make the best informed decisions for your PV investment.
Vigilant will first evaluate your PV system(s) to determine the current state of operation and performance. We will then compare our findings to the expected performance based on computer modeling. Through this thorough and comprehensive process, we can help you determine the present value of your PV system(s) and bring your PV assets to their optimum production capacity. Vigilant's independent system assessment service includes the following:
Comprehensive Assessment Process
Our comprehensive system assessment and evaluation process begins with the steps outlined in our system commissioning process. These tests and procedures include:
- Insulation Resistance Testing
- IV-Curve Tracing
- Inverter Commissioning
- Thermal Imaging
- Visual and Mechanical Inspection
- Continuity Testing
- Monitoring Commissioning
Performance Modeling
In order to determine whether your system is performing to its design potential, Vigilant must first create a baseline for comparison. Using a performance modeling software called PVsyst; we analyze historic weather data and all of the physical characteristics of the PV system to create a performance model. We will then compare the actual PV system output to the performance model prediction to help determine the "health" of the PV system.
Performance History
The present value of a PV system can only be determined by knowing its history. Vigilant uses the existing data-logging and monitoring system to create a report summarizing the performance of the system since its initial commissioning date.
Maintenance History
As with the performance history, the maintenance history is also necessary to determine its present value. Vigilant investigates and reports on all maintenance performed on the system since its initial commissioning date, including work performed by the inverter manufacturer as well any maintenance contractors.
Equipment Inventory
Vigilant will take a complete inventory of all equipment associated with a PV system and compare it to the original bill of materials, if available. This process establishes, or reestablishes, a baseline of equipment assets of the project.
Warranty Status
Based on all available PV system documentation, as well as manufacturer's information we will determine the status of all product and performance warranties.
System Design Verification
For safety and performance, it is critical that the PV system's components are properly sized and installed. As part of Vigilant's comprehensive system evaluation, we perform component sizing calculations for the conductors, over-current protection and string sizes, as well as proper grounding practices as per the National Electric Code (NEC). Our Master Electricians will also examine the manner in which all components have been installed, similar to what an electrical inspector would do.
As-built Drawings
Vigilant uses As-built drawing plans to verify the current condition of your system. If you do not have an up-to-date and complete set of engineering drawings for your system, Vigilant's engineers can draw up a new set upon request. Be sure to mention your As-builts when requesting a quote.
Final Report and Recommendations
As a result of Vigilant's thorough investigation, testing and observations we will present a complete report listing and describing our findings. We will also make a list of all service work required to restore the system to optimum performance along with a quote for performing this service work.
Interested in more information about our independent system assessments? Request a quote from Vigilant today and find out what we can do for your system.