Photovoltaic revamping: all the useful information you need to know
When a family or a company makes the decision to invest in photovoltaic energy, one of the fundamental questions that usually arises is how long these devices will be able to provide energy in an efficient way but also consistent with the consumption needs which, over time, can change.
The life cycle of the photovoltaic system, in particular of the photovoltaic modules, certainly represents a crucial factor to consider when planning the installation of a solar system, and is influenced by various elements to be examined to fully understand what determines its longevity and correct functioning over the years. As explained in this article, the average lifespan of a photovoltaic panel depends on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the technology used, the environmental conditions and the level of attention to maintenance of the photovoltaic system. In general, the most popular photovoltaic panels on the market have an average performance guarantee issued directly by the manufacturer of approximately 25 years.
However, in conjunction with the above, it is important to consider two further crucial aspects:
- Technological upgrade of materials: the aim is to extend the life cycle of the machinery used in the production process, replacing main components and preparing updates to the control mechanisms and adjustments to current regulations on safety and energy efficiency.
- The energy needs of the structure where the plant is located: let’s consider for example the case of a company that, over the years, achieves an increase in business and consequently an increase in the use of machinery intended for production. Machinery that involves an energy surplus compared to the original scenario.
For these reasons it could be useful to consider revamping, to consolidate and maintain the performance of our system.
Photovoltaic revamping: what is it?
Photovoltaic revamping is a process of updating and improving existing photovoltaic systems in order to optimize their performance and extend their useful life. This can include replacing obsolete components, installing more efficient technologies and optimizing the system as a whole.
How photovoltaic revamping works
The photovoltaic revamping process depends on the specific needs of the system and its components. However, it generally follows these main steps:
- Evaluation of the existing system: in this phase, all elements of the photovoltaic system are carefully examined, including the photovoltaic panels, the inverter, the cables and the mechanical support parts. The state of wear, current performance and any areas for improvement are assessed.
- Identification of components to replace or update: based on the analysis of the existing system, the components that need replacement or updating are identified. This could include replacing damaged or obsolete photovoltaic panels with more efficient models, installing higher-performance inverters or optimizing the mechanical system to reinforce or replace the panel support structures to ensure greater stability.
- Installation of new components: once the components to be replaced or updated have been identified, the new elements are installed in the existing photovoltaic system. It is important that the installation is carried out by experienced professionals to ensure a correct and safe installation.
- Technological integrations: based on the analysis scenario, it may also be useful to integrate innovative technologies to maximize the use of the energy produced. Examples of this include solar tracking systems, storage systems or electric vehicle charging stations.
- Testing and monitoring: after the installation of the new components, the system undergoes extensive testing to verify the performance and efficiency of the system. Additionally, it is important to implement a continuous monitoring system to detect any issues and further optimize performance over time.
Advantages of photovoltaic revamping
Photovoltaic revamping offers a number of significant benefits for owners of existing photovoltaic systems, including:
- Improved performance: By upgrading obsolete components with more modern and efficient technologies, you can significantly improve the overall performance of your photovoltaic system. This translates into greater electricity production and, consequently, a greater return on investment.
- Increase in energy production: thanks to the higher level of efficiency, the revamped plant will be able to generate more electricity for the same amount of sunlight, further reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
- Longevity of the system: photovoltaic revamping allows the useful life of the system to be extended, reducing the need for complete replacement of the system in the short term. This allows you to maximize the value of your investment in the long term.
- Energy saving: thanks to the greater energy efficiency obtained through rewamping, it is possible to obtain greater savings on bills and greater energy independence and, in the event of the customer’s energy needs having evolved compared to the original scenario, align energy production with any new needs of consumption.
- Regulatory compliance: Updating the PV system in accordance with the latest regulations and standards can help owners ensure the legal compliance of their system.
Procedures for maintenance and modernization interventions
The importance of relying on a competent company in this type of activity is also reflected in the correct management of the obligations required by the GSE (Energy Services Manager) in this regard. In fact, there are some rules that must be respected in order to preserve the forms of incentives and the related advantages. The GSE, in a nutshell, distinguishes two types of interventions, for which different procedures are envisaged, which can be consulted in the manual of rules for technological interventions on incentivized photovoltaic systems.
Revamping & Repowering
Another activity often subject to joint evaluation together with revamping is photovoltaic repowering. It consists of increasing the power of the system through the installation of new sections, thus guaranteeing greater efficiency and increase in power.
It is in fact possible to add new sections (i.e. new photovoltaic modules) to a pre-existing system. However, before carrying out this activity, it is essential to rely on a qualified operator who can evaluate from a technical point of view:
- available space: it is important to ensure that the pavement on which you want to add the new sections is adequate in terms of space, orientation and inclination;
- electrical infrastructure: it is essential to know the capacity of the public infrastructure to know if it is able to support the additional power generated by the photovoltaic system.
- authorizations: it is essential to check the authorizations necessary for the additional installation of new sections.
As with revamping, repowering also involves some obligations set out by the GSE (Energy Services Manager) that must be carefully respected.
A valuable investment
If you are looking for a company expert in design and installation but also in Revamping and Repowering activities, you can refer to Southenergy.
Since 2008, Southenergy has been providing customized solutions aimed at enhancing renewable energy sources, providing technical solutions and a personalized consultancy path.
Discover the turnkey solutions that we have reserved for those who have already chosen us, consult one of our case histories relating to photovoltaic revamping and repowering: Southenergy for Forty Fruit.
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