Global consulting, engineering, and quality control firm, Enertis Applus+, with extensive expertise in the renewable energy and storage sectors, has tested more than 22,500 solar PV modules with its mobile laboratory in Chile.
The PV Mobile Lab, developed and patented by Enertis Applus+ in 2012, is currently available in three units: one in Chile, operational since 2017, one in Mexico and one in Europe and it will soon be available in Australia and Brazil. The PV Mobile Lab is equipped to perform specialised testing of monofacial, bifacial and large solar PV modules on site under stationary laboratory conditions, minimising the risks associated with transportation and reducing module downtime. Enertis Applus+ also has an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, that guarantees an optimal level of service and measurement procedures.
The PV Mobile Lab is equipped to perform Maximum Power Point tests (flash tests) under standard test conditions and electroluminescence (EL) tests to verify the performance of PV modules and detect internal defects. The aim is to ensure the correct operation of the modules and thus, the maximum profitability of the project.
These tests are performed both during the commissioning phase, to check the condition of the installed solar modules and during the operation phase to monitor the annual degradation of the solar modules and to check their condition after exposure to extreme wind, hail or storms, among other things.
Enertis Applus+ has extensive experience in providing specialised testing and technical inspection services to solar PV projects in South America equivalent to more than 23 GW. Specifically, Chile is a key market for Enertis Applus+, where it has a permanent office since 2012 and where Applus+ has been operating since 1998 in various industries, including renewables, infrastructure and energy.