| Basic Facts | |
|---|---|
| Client: | Wattner AG |
| Timeframe: | February 2011 – ongoing |
| Project Location: | Germany |
| Main services: | - Technical due dilligence including plant acceptance inspection with special emphasis on safety - Infrared pictures taken of on-site photovoltaic modules - Power measurements on-site |
| Involved regulations/ standards: | - IEC 62446 - Grid connected photovoltaic systems - IEC 60364-1 - Low-voltage electrical installations - IEC 62548 - Installation and safety requirements for photovoltaic generators - IEC 61829 - Crystalline silicon photovoltaic array - IEC 61727 - Photovoltaic systems |
Initial situation and requirements
Wattner AG is a German investment company, running several photovoltaic power plant funds. During the acquisition phase of some new investments, independent, technical due diligence was requested to ensure that all international standards and regulations were met. Additionally, proof of quality and therefore proof of bankability was also required to be stated.
About TÜV Rheinland
Founded 140 years ago, TÜV Rheinland is a global leader in independent inspection services, ensuring quality and safety for people, the environment and technology in nearly all aspects of life.
We inspect technical equipment, products and services, oversee projects and help to shape processes for companies around the world. Since 2006, we have been a member of the United Nations Global Compact to promote sustainability and combat corruption.
Due to our extensive Experience with solar power plants, we can help you in all project phases and ensure plant safety and reliability. We can also support you in achieving and maintaining profitability for large-scale PV systems and Solar thermal power plants – from choosing the right site to full-scale operations.
We offer you a comprehensive range of services related to PV plants, including site assessment and inspection, supervision of construction, plant monitoring with yield check and yield evaluation, and unit inspections.
Solutions, results
Due to our extensive experience in the sector and our profound knowledge of international standards, TÜV Rheinland was the preferred choice for SunPower Corporation.
With a capacity of 84 MWp, the PV power plant at Montalto di Castro required a detailed portfolio of inspection services. We provided SunPower Corporation with a four pronged approach, covering the client’s full set of requirements: an assessment of the energy yield prediction of the plant, an infrared inspection of the plant’s photovoltaic units, and a full performance acceptance check, with the process culminating in a final acceptance inspection, performed on site.
Independent third party inspections are essential in power plants of this kind, where differing stakeholders such as banks and investors require quality assurance when it comes to theirinvestment. For SunPower Corporation providing assurance was a priority, not least for their engineering, procurement and construction company stakeholders.
| Wattner AG has been investing in solar power plants since 2004. |
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Benefits for the client
TÜV Rheinland helped Wattner AG with:
- Providing quality assurance according to national and international standards.
- Rigorous fault detection, ensuring quality, safety and performance.
- Impartial independent assessment ensuring that the plant can be viewed as a sound financial investment (Proof of Bankability).