ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the operation and maintenance of a photovoltaic (PV) power system after it has been installed. It looks at the operation of solar systems, typical maintenance procedures, the diagnosis of problems and equipment replacement intervals. One of the characteristics of most PV power systems is that they operate automatically, i.e. without user intervention. Some PV systems may have a caustic potash primary battery bank to back-up the solar system. This type of system typically uses a relay to switch the load to primary battery power when the battery voltage drops below a certain threshold. PV–genset hybrid systems have their own operational issues. Starting the genset at cold temperatures can be difficult and causes wear to the genset. Other operational procedures that may be necessary with some cold-weather PV systems include removal of snow and ice from the arrays.
