Solar Photovoltaic Power Optimization

This book focuses on the rapidly maturing solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, which is achieving an ever-increasing share of U.S. and global power production. There is a growing need for all stakeholders – owners, maintenance technicians, utilities, and installers – to fully understand the operations and maintenance of PV systems, and how to monitor and diagnose systems post installation. Recognizing this need, this book covers monitoring and diagnostic techniques and technologies, including how to identify the causes of poor performance, and measure and verify power production. Drawing on global case studies, it details how to achieve optimal PV power output in the field through an overview of basic electrical, the solar PV module and Balance of System, and processes and software for monitoring, measurement, and verification. It also provides an overview of the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioner’s (NABCEP) new PV System Inspector credential, which will be outlined in the final chapter. Equipping the reader with the knowledge and confidence required to maximize the output of solar PV installations, Solar Photovoltaics Power Optimization will be an essential resource for PV practitioners and students.