SolarTester offers a wide range of PV quality tests with which we can provide you with independent advice on the quality of your material and/or connection. Investments in solar power systems are high and for the longer term. It is therefore paramount that you are certain about the quality, operation, and efficiency of your solar panels. We are happy to use our expertise to offer this certainty to our customers. SolarTester is the only inspection body in Europe that focuses 100% on quality control of solar panels. That makes us the best expert and independent body that can help you gain insight into the quality of your solar panels.
When do you use our services? Below you will find some standard packages with inspection methods for some common situations.
If you are not sure which package is best for you or if you prefer to combine other inspection techniques, please contact us. We are happy to think along with you.
Pre-shipment inspection. In the standard pre-shipment package, we offer in-line inspection with loading supervision. This means that we are present during the production process of the solar panels that you have ordered and have the panels replaced that do not meet the set quality standards. Loading supervision means that we monitor that the correct solar panels are also placed on sea transport. More information about the pre-shipment checks you will find here.
Quality control on location. The best time to test is after the entire transport cycle and before installing the modules, at the project location. The advantage of this is that you can be sure that there is no production- or transport damage in your panels. This test is performed with our mobile test laboratory and includes, among others, a flash test and makes electroluminescent images of the modules. However, it may be that there is not enough space or time at the project location to perform the test. In this case, we can perform quality control in the storage location. In addition, if desired, we offer the service to transport a selection of solar panels to our own test location and then have them transported back to the project location on the desired date. More information about quality control on location you will find here.
Monitor quality of installation. Experience has taught us that there is a real chance of invisible damage during installation. Briefly leaning/stepping on a solar panel, dropping tools on the panel, hammering the solar panels into the support frame. A small selection of our practical examples that cause invisible damage. Damage that will only affect the yield after a few years, possibly after the installation warranty has expired. With this package we randomly check solar panels in the system (without dismantling). We make any invisible damage visible through electroluminescence images with our in-situ test equipment. If desired, we can also perform random string measurements. If there is reason for further damage inspection, the most suitable method of investigation will be decided on in consultation. More information electroluminescence you will find here.
APK drone inspection. General Periodic Inspection. The term says it all, this cost efficient basic package offers the possibility to also have a periodic general check of your system, if desired. The advantage thereof is that you can detect problems at an early stage. This prevents unnecessary production loss. SolarTester plans the APK as soon as weather conditions permit and provides you with a clear report with the test results. If there is reason to do so, it will be discussed in consultation whether additional quality controls are required. This way you’ll stay in control of expenses! This test is performed using thermographic drone inspection. If you decide to have the inspection performed periodically, we will extend the inspection with a Performance ratio calculation over 12 months. You can find more information about thermographic inspections here.
Damage. You suspect that your system may have been damaged during stormy weather. In that case, this package can provide you with insight into whether damage has actually occurred, even without the solar panels being dismantled. If there is reason for further damage inspection, the most suitable method of investigation will be decided on in consultation. With the SolarTester damage report you also have a clear and factual document in your hands. This test is performed using three possible examination techniques:
You can find more information about damage and damage investigation here.
Take over ‘health check’. Planning to take over a solar power system? Or is your system performace warranty about to expire? Then it is advisable to have a “health check” done. Ultimately, you would like to know whether there are hidden defects in the solar panels and not be faced with unpleasant surprises. This package offers a thermographic drone survey and an in-situ test as standard. If, based on the test results, there is reason for further thorough inspection, this will be determined in consultation with you. With these tests, you’ll have a good idea of the performance of the system and whether there is reason to assume that the performance will (accelerated) decrease. You will find more information about the in-situ test here and you’ll find more information about thermographic inspection here.
Custom-made. If our standard packages do not match your problem or you are not sure which package is most suitable, we would be happy to put together an inspection plan for you. Based on an intake interview, we map out the situation, the system and your issue, along with the most efficient inspection methods. Please feel free to contact us with no obligation for advice or more information.
