The Crucial Role of Planned Maintenance
Solar and battery storage facilities have emerged as crucial components in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. In the state of Illinois, these facilities are not only aiding in Illinois growing energy demands but are designed to last 25-30 years. However, to maximize the benefits of these facilities, it is imperative to recognize the significance of planned maintenance. Planned Maintenance helps ensure their longevity, optimal production, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
Planned maintenance refers to a proactive approach to facility upkeep, involving:
- Scheduled Inspections (Bi-annual)
- Equipment Software Upgrades
- Mechanical and Electrical Repairs
- Equipment Replacements
- Operational Testing
- Site Maintenance
This approach is indispensable for solar and battery storage facilities for several reasons:
- Prolonged Longevity: Planned maintenance, when executed correctly, can significantly extend the lifespan of solar panels, inverters, and battery storage systems. This longevity directly translates into long-term cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and continued energy production.
- Enhanced Performance: Regular maintenance checks help identify and rectify issues promptly, optimizing the performance of solar arrays and battery storage. This means increased energy generation and improved reliability for consumers.
- Safety Assurance: Solar and battery facilities come with potential safety risks, such as electrical faults or battery malfunctions. Scheduled maintenance ensures that these risks are minimized, safeguarding the facility’s employees and the community.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with state and federal incentive regulations is crucial for solar and battery facility owners in Illinois. Most projects received access financial incentives, tax credits, and rebates. Planned maintenance is a key factor in meeting the compliance requirements of state and federal incentives.
Compliance with State and Federal Incentive Regulations
In Illinois, as in many other states, renewable energy incentives play a pivotal role in promoting the adoption of solar and battery storage technologies. Planned maintenance aligns perfectly with these incentive regulations, ensuring that facilities meet the necessary criteria to access financial benefits:
- Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs): The state programs offer incentives for residential and commercial solar installations. Planned maintenance helps solar facilities maintain their energy output, which is crucial for earning SRECs. These credits are tradable and can provide a significant revenue stream for solar facility owners.
- Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): To qualify for the ITC, solar facility owners must ensure their systems are operational and productive. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the facility running efficiently and meeting the ITC’s eligibility criteria. Facility owners should maintain documentation of their maintenance activities as proof of the system’s operational status. This documentation may be requested during the ITC claim process.
Minimum Maintenance Requirements Based on Installation Type
Residential: For residential installations in Illinois, annual inspections and cleaning of solar panels are recommended. Battery systems should undergo similar checks to ensure optimal performance.
Commercial & Industrial: Larger installations should follow a more rigorous maintenance schedule, including quarterly or bi-annual inspections, cleaning, and monitoring of system performance. Battery storage systems should receive similar attention.
Utility-Scale Solar and Battery Facilities: Utility-scale installations demand even more comprehensive maintenance efforts. Monthly or quarterly inspections, along with performance monitoring, cleaning, and regular battery system checks, are essential to maintain efficiency and compliance.
Planned maintenance is not only beneficial but also essential for ensuring the longevity and production of solar and battery storage facilities in our state of Illinois. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, the role of maintenance in solar and battery facilities cannot be underestimated.
We’re here to help you ensure your site is working safely, efficiently, and compliant with any incentive programs. Contact the CES Operations and Maintenance Team to discover how we can help maximize the production of your solar system.
service@cesnrg.com
(630) 637-2150
Visit our Operations & Maintenance page for a comprehensive list of services.