New milestones for intelligent PV monitoring in the ZERODEFECT4PV project

We are pleased to announce the delivery of the Data Collection Unit (DCU) developed by our partner İnelso Energy Systems!

Following successful laboratory tests of the INELSO sensors in terms of performance, accuracy and functionality, we are now moving on to the next step: implementation in our real-world system. At our 30 kWp east–west rooftop PV plant at the Elbfabrik site in Magdeburg, the sensors will be tested under real environmental conditions and in continuous outdoor operation.

Why is this an important step?
The sensors enable the acquisition of additional PV parameters at module level, complementing data from inverters and weather stations. This extended data basis allows us to train our machine learning models on a significantly improved feature set, thereby substantially increasing the accuracy and reliability of fault detection and prediction. They are therefore a key building block on the path towards holistic, intelligent condition monitoring of PV systems.

The potential of intelligent monitoring methods:
• Fault diagnosis: fast, precise detection, classification and localisation of faults
• Predictive maintenance: early identification of critical changes
• Lifetime improvement: prevention of fault propagation and increased system reliability
• Optimised operation: more efficient maintenance and strategic planning, e.g. for soiling or snow loads
• Transparency: traceable processes for greater trust and accountability

Integration into our ICT system is realised via the open, industry-established MQTTs interface. Over the coming months, we will share our experiences and develop an installation and operation manual for the sensor system.

International consortium:
• Beia Consult International (Romania) – Consortium lead: Cristian Beceanu, George Suciu
• İnelso Energy Systems (Türkiye) – Farzaneh Bagheri
• Fraunhofer IFF (Germany) – Christoph Wenige, Hannes Wasser

The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action as part of the ERA-Net Smart Energy Systems initiative.