Solar plant inspection and maintenance involve critical checks on electrical components (FCBC, UPS, NIFPS, SCADA, ACDB) and physical inspections of the PV area. Key procedures include monitoring SCADA for data, verifying earthing on ACDB/DCDB, and visual checks of PV panels for damage or debris

 Solar plant inspection and maintenance involve critical checks on electrical components (FCBC, UPS, NIFPS, SCADA, ACDB) and physical inspections of the PV area. Key procedures include monitoring SCADA for data, verifying earthing on ACDB/DCDB, and visual checks of PV panels for damage or debris.

Solar Plant Components Inspection (Electrical & Controls)

FCBC (Float Cum Boost Charger) & UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): These ensure continuous, stabilized power to control systems, especially for SCADA. They require checking battery voltage, charging currents, and proper functioning during power transitions.

SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition): Used for monitoring meteorological data, energy production, inverter performance, and switchgear status. Inspections involve checking data accuracy, alarm systems, and communication with all field devices.

ACDB (Alternating Current Distribution Board): Positioned between the inverter and the grid, these must be inspected for proper operation of AC Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCB/MCB) and Surge Protection Devices (SPD).

NIFPS (Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System): Critical for transformer protection. Inspection involves ensuring proper pressure, functional controls, and, in some cases, automatic activation readiness.

Earthing/Grounding: Essential to test and verify that all panels, structures, and electrical components (including PCUs, ACDB, and DCDB) are properly earthed according to IS:3043-1987 standards. 

PV Area Inspections (Physical & Structural)

Module Inspection: Visual check for damage, cracks, bird droppings, or shadowing (e.g., from nearby vegetation).

Structural Inspection: Inspection of Module Mounting Structures (MMS) for corrosion, loose nuts/bolts, and structural integrity.

Cable Inspection: Ensuring proper dressing, insulation, and routing of both DC cables (from panels to inverter) and AC cables.

Array Junction Boxes (AJB): Checking for moisture, proper termination, and fuse health.

Site Condition: Verifying cleaning schedules of modules to maximize efficiency. 

Key Inspection Requirements

Standards: Compliance with IEC/IS standards (e.g., IEC 61215/IS14286 for modules).

Documentation: Recording of daily inspection reports, including data logger checks and SCADA logs.

Safety: Use of calibrated testers for earth resistance measurement.