A solar site commissioning process is necessary to ensure that a utility-scale or C&I solar installation is safely built to code and produces energy according to design objectives. At this point, the system is ready to connect to the grid and begin transferring energy. This crucial phase in the overall solar site build-out must be completed as quickly and thoroughly as possible to meet all project deadlines and avoid cost overruns.

EPCs and developers seeking to avoid hassles with the commissioning process should consider the short- and long-term value of partnering with a one-stop solar shop. 

Commissioning Must Be Efficient

As competition continues to rise, it has become more imperative to trim unnecessary costs where possible and expedite every process, all while maintaining stricter scrutiny to safety. The commissioning process is no exception. 

Supervisors overseeing this critical stage of project development need to focus on a host of different factors that all must be perfectly aligned to bring the system online. This includes electrical items, like making sure all conductors and disconnects are properly sized, and meeting all compliance with local authorities having jurisdiction and national codes. It also includes mechanical and structural items that are securely mounted, such as modules, racking, panels, inverters and other balance-of-system components.

Any issues arising during this stage can lead to significant delays, meaning increased labor costs and the potential to miss predetermined production capacity. A one-stop solar solution with a rapid, yet diligent, commissioning process can shorten install times, reduce costs and start generating energy sooner. Ultimately, this can lead to a faster ROI for stakeholders.

TrinaPro Improves Commissioning Times

Trina Solar recently took a major step forward with the launch of TrinaPro to provide more long-term value to EPCs, developers and financiers of utility-scale projects. TrinaPro’s all-in-one smart energy solution is designed to increase the reliability and value of solar projects by combining components for maximum optimization. 

Along with layout design and installation, one important feature provided by TrinaPro is the reliability that Trina Solar brings to the commissioning process. With nearly two decades of experience in the solar industry, Trina brings advanced technological and methodological techniques to commissioning that increase efficiency and speed up the process for utility-scale projects. These techniques includetechnical solutions that are easy to assemble, with minimized installation man-hours​ and near-zero maintenance costs during the commissioning.

It’s important for the installations to match the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations. As the original module manufacturer, TrinaPro streamlines the commissioning process by first manufacturing high-quality, durable solar panels. 

A third area where TrinaPro improves commissioning times involves the string inverter design, which has evolved significantly in recent years. For instance, many projects can take advantage of string inverters over centralized inverters to accelerate commissioning.  

When the project operator is ready to flip on the power switch, Trina technicians will be on-site to ensure everything is working correctly. This means no risk of surprises or delays in the commissioning process.

Click here to learn more about how TrinaPro helps streamline solar site commissioning.