EHSQ monitoring during the startup and commissioning of a large-scale 1500

 EHSQ monitoring during the startup and commissioning of a large-scale 1500.

Wonderful discussion with Shri SKB Vali sir 

EHSQ monitoring during the startup and commissioning of a large-scale 1500 MW solar plant involves a comprehensive plan focused on safety, environmental compliance, and quality assurance. Key monitoring areas include: 

Environmental Monitoring

Land Use and Habitat: Monitoring to ensure minimal disruption to the local ecosystem and adherence to land management plans outlined in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA).

Water Usage: Tracking water consumption, & availability especially in arid regions, and verifying the implementation of water-saving measures like dry-cleaning robotic technology.

Waste Management: Ensuring proper handling, storage, and disposal or recycling of all waste materials, including packaging, construction debris, and potentially hazardous components like solar panels at the end of their useful life, via authorized vendors.

Noise and Dust: Monitoring construction and commissioning noise and dust levels to comply with local regulations and minimize community disturbance.

Community Relations: Tracking and addressing any community grievances or inquiries through a formal system. 

Health and Safety (H&S) Monitoring

Electrical Safety: Strict monitoring of all electrical works, including arc-flash protection, proper cable termination, and adherence to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to prevent electrocution risks.

Worker Safety and PPE: Ensuring all personnel use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (hard hats, gloves, safety footwear, arc flash protection, etc.) and are trained for specific onsite hazards.

Emergency Preparedness: Verifying that a site-specific Emergency Response Plan is developed, communicated to all workers and local emergency responders, and includes procedures for fires, lightning strikes, and injuries.

Site Housekeeping: Regular inspections to minimize slip, trip, and fall hazards by maintaining clear access routes and managing vegetation.

Risk Assessments: Ensuring that job-specific risk assessments are conducted and mitigation measures are implemented for every task. 

Quality (Q) Monitoring

Equipment Compliance: Verifying that all equipment, including modules, inverters, cables, and mounting structures, are installed according to manufacturer specifications, national/international standards, and have valid product certificates.

System Testing: Overseeing comprehensive pre-commissioning tests, including voltage, insulation, and performance checks, to ensure all components are functioning correctly.

Grid Synchronization: Monitoring the safe and proper connection and synchronization of the plant with the main power grid.

Documentation: Ensuring all documentation, including "as-built" drawings, test reports, and commissioning certificates from relevant authorities (like the CEIG/CEA in India), are completed and approved.

Performance Monitoring: Implementing a remote monitoring system (RMS) to collect real-time data on energy generation, inverter performance, and weather conditions to ensure the plant operates at optimal efficiency. 

Daily EHSQ & O&M Schedule

Performance Monitoring: Log AC/DC parameters (current, voltage, power, energy) via the monitoring system (SCADA) to check for deviations from expected generation.

Visual Inspections (Walkthrough):

Check for any immediate physical damage to modules, inverters, and mounting structures (cracks, loose wiring).

Verify all inverters are operational (check indicator lights/error signals).

Ensure control rooms and switchyard areas are clean and free of obstructions.

Safety Checks:

Confirm the presence and appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by all on-site personnel.

Review logbooks for any equipment tripping or breakdown reports from the previous day. 

Half-Monthly (Fortnightly) Schedule

Module Cleaning: Clean solar panels to remove accumulated dust, dirt, and bird droppings, adjusting frequency based on local site conditions and dust accumulation.

Inverter Check: Inspect inverter air filters and ensure proper cooling is functioning. 

Monthly Schedule

EHS Walkthrough: Conduct a formal environmental, health, and safety inspection of the entire site, including fencing, signage, and general site conditions.

Fire Safety: Inspect fire extinguishers (weight, pressure, physical status) and ensure they are readily accessible.

Pest Control: Apply necessary measures for pest and rodent control in control rooms and junction boxes.

Vegetation Management: Check and trim nearby vegetation to prevent shading of arrays and potential fire hazards.

Connection Checks: Inspect accessible cable connections and junction boxes for signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections. 

Six-Monthly Schedule (Bi-annual) 

Inverter Servicing: Comprehensive servicing of inverters, including internal cleaning and firmware updates if necessary.

Transformer Checks: Sample and test transformer oil (BDV measurements); filter oil if required based on results.

Battery Health: For systems with battery storage, check battery terminals, electrolyte levels (if applicable), and conduct load tests to assess performance.

Preventive Maintenance Visit: A formal, professional health check of the entire system, as recommended by manufacturers or the O&M provider. 

Yearly Schedule (Annual)

Full System Inspection: A comprehensive inspection of the entire PV array, mounting structures, and all Balance of System (BoS) components for physical integrity, rust, or misalignment.

Electrical Testing:

Perform insulation resistance testing of all cables.

Conduct infrared thermography to detect "hotspots" or abnormalities in modules and electrical components.

Measure earthing resistance for solar array structures, control room equipment, and lightning arrestors.

Calibration: Ensure all testing equipment used for O&M is calibrated by NABL accredited labs (or equivalent).

Documentation Review: Review and update all EHSQ records, maintenance logs, and regulatory reports.

Training: Provide annual refresher EHSQ and safety training for all O&M staff. 

Developing site-specific EHSQ checklists based on these frequencies can ensure a highly efficient and safe operation. 

With best regards,

Dr. Amar Nath Giri 

EHSQ Technical services