Open AccessPVUSA procurement, acceptance, and rating practices for photovoltaic power plants
Author(s) -
R. N. Dows,
Edward Gough
Publication year - 1995
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/119944
Subject(s) - turnkey , procurement , photovoltaic system , process (computing) , engineering management , systems engineering , engineering , computer science , operations management , business , telecommunications , marketing , electrical engineering , operating system
This report is one in a series of PVUSA reports on PVUSA experiences and lessons learned at the demonstration sites in Davis and Kerman, California, and from participating utility host sites. During the course of approximately 7 years (1988--1994), 10 PV systems have been installed ranging from 20 kW to 500 kW. Six 20-kW emerging module technology arrays, five on universal project-provided structures and one turnkey concentrator, and four turnkey utility-scale systems (200 to 500 kW) were installed. PVUSA took a very proactive approach in the procurement of these systems. In the absence of established procurement documents, the project team developed a comprehensive set of technical and commercial documents. These have been updated with each successive procurement. Working closely with vendors after the award in a two-way exchange provided designs better suited for utility applications. This report discusses the PVUSA procurement process through testing and acceptance, and rating of PV turnkey systems. Special emphasis is placed on the acceptance testing and rating methodology which completes the procurement process by verifying that PV systems meet contract requirements. Lessons learned and recommendations are provided based on PVUSA experience