Monitoring solar panels from remote locations is now possible
Technological advances have allowed us the ability to turn off lights in our home from our cell phones and instantly broadcast to our Facebook followers when we’ve purchased a latte or gone for a run (including distance, pace and time), if we choose. It only makes sense, then, that we are able to remotely control and monitor solar panels.
Berlin-based solar energy product manufacturer, SOLON, has developed a web-based monitoring, control and reporting system applicable to utility-scale solar power plants. Its new SOLON SCADA system will be presented at a solar energy trade fair in Munich, Germany this week, from June 9-11, 2010.
According to its press release:
The SOLON SCADA system delivers real-time, 24-hour information on a power plant’s vital data – from the current output to the components and detailed analyses. Rapid detection of potential malfunctions in the power plant operation can help to minimize downtimes while maximizing yields.
The SOLON SCADA system is the first system which, via a WEB 2.0 interface, makes it possible to not only remotely monitor but also control and provide maintenance for solar power plants. No additional software is required. Users with a computer connected to the Internet can access data on the system, weather, production, or even the status of servicing via the SOLON SCADA system; furthermore, it can also provide trend charts, target/actual analyses, and business case reports. It can be used as well to make comparisons between SOLON power plants at different sites.
This is not future technology. Remote controlled solar panels are available now! Recommended for utility scale solar plants, the SOLAN system is compliant with German and United States grid guidelines and can be customized to fit individual companies’ or plants’ needs.
Imagine being able to pinpoint and correct a solar panel malfunction almost immediately without having to send operators into the field. Minimizing time delays and potential loss of energy that could otherwise be generated means that investment in solar panels can be better protected with SOLAN’s technology.
Tags: maintain solar panels, monitor solar panels, remote control, remote controlled solar panels, solan, solar power plants, solon scada
