Revamping and Repowering of a Photovoltaic System
A system that generates less than expected calls for action, but replacing modules, inverters, or trackers is only worthwhile if the energy recovered offsets the cost within a reasonable timeframe. And the problem isn’t always with the components. Let’s start by analyzing the operational data to first understand why the system is underperforming, then determine whether and to what extent an upgrade will pay off, before proceeding with the work.
What We Check
Deciding to carry out a revamp means first understanding why the plant is underperforming, and then determining whether the project will pay for itself. We verify both of these factors, using the data at hand.
Cause of the drop in yield
The actual cause of the lower output—whether it’s module degradation, soiling, shading, inverter outages, or O&M that isn’t meeting the agreed-upon standards. Without identifying the correct cause, the corrective action risks solving nothing: this is the step that’s most often overlooked and costs the most.
Follow-up to the procedure
The cost of the revamping compared to the expected increase in production over a multi-year period. For an aging plant, the payback period must fall within its remaining useful life—and not extend beyond it.
Permit and Incentive Requirements
The effects of the project on existing permits and incentives. A poorly planned modernization project can jeopardize them: consistency between the approved and modified plans must be verified before construction begins.
Component Status
The condition of modules, inverters, mounting structures, and trackers—often starting with a thermographic inspection—to determine what actually needs to be replaced and what does not. Replacing everything is rarely the most cost-effective choice.
When Is It Really Worth It?
Modernization is justified only when there is a concrete and measurable problem.
Actual underperformance
The plant is underperforming compared to the business plan, and the cause has been identified.
Payback Over the Remaining Life of the Asset
The expected recovery will make the investment pay off within a reasonable timeframe.
Protected Incentive
This action does not jeopardize existing securities or incentives.
The Right Component
Replace only what is necessary, not everything just for the sake of it.
How We Support You
We conduct an independent diagnosis of underperformance—often beginning with a thermographic inspection—followed by a technical and economic evaluation of the intervention, and, if the analysis confirms its feasibility, we oversee its implementation.
Go to related pages
Where to learn more, within the world of Onirico Suisse.
A preliminary review of the system.
Tell us about the system's design and performance: years in operation, output, and recurring malfunctions. We'll respond with an initial technical and economic assessment—provided confidentially—regarding the feasibility of the project.