Monitoring And Controlling Projects

Gender Mainstreaming in Practice: It provides a detailed algorithm for implementing a gender perspective in all phases of a programme/project cycle: from planning to evaluation. Special attention is paid to baseline gender indicators that help monitor whether a project improves access to development resources for women and men equally, principles of civic participation, including women NGOs, in project implementation and to active promotion of gender equality in information support of the project and communication with national counterparts. #SM #Gender #NGOs

Nature-based carbon markets have experienced a series of major setbacks that have undermined scientific credibility, & these same issues risk spilling into biodiversity markets. In our new paper in Nature Sustainability (led by Tom Swinfield & I), we outline our vision for truly scientifically-credible nature-based credit markets: https://rdcu.be/dP6P6. TLDR: in our view the key is to only sell credits *after they have been proven demonstrably additional using robust statistical techniques* for impact evaluation, so we know each credit represents real, additional gains. This could transform these markets. Imagine how investment might upscale if investors were truly confident that every 'unit' of carbon was on average real. Society has made huge policy commitments to upscale carbon & biodv offsetting. But, carbon credit markets have suffered serious hits to their credibility & nascent biodv markets risk inheriting shortcomings. Impact evaluations have shown that these markets have systematically underdelivered additionality. So: leverage the new generation of techniques for robust impact evaluation (comparing outcomes at project site with statistically-near identical counterfactual) to only sell nature-based credits after they’ve been shown to have delivered additional gains. This requires using trusted primary observations to track the impact of your project & counterfactuals (land cover for carbon), which is also relevant to some, but not all, biodiversity offsetting & biodiversity credit methods. This overcomes a systemic problem in credit markets, which is project proponents proposing own counterfactual, which opens up opportunities for gaming Currently, too much weight is placed on ex-ante forecasts of impact/additionality & these methods for forecasting are replete with perverse incentives We have methods to do this: eg what 4C: Cambridge Centre for Carbon Credits are operationalising – you can track additionality of the nature-based credit in near real time, with a transparent & statistically-derived counterfactual   IMO credit markets are at a crossroads. Either we can keep trying small improvements on flawed assessment processes; or fundamentally reform markets so we can be confident credits they deliver are robust. Whilst science has made big progress on additionality, we still haven’t established accepted methods for leakage, or impermanence. So to maintain scientific credibility, we also need to take the *lower bound estimate whenever there is uncertainty* These reforms could fundamentally change markets, incentivising investors/project devs to find sites most likely to deliver additionality, no leakage & permanence, in hope of beating the counterfactual & generating windfall gains This paper focuses on making credits credible, but there’s not space to talk about making them equitable and just, which we’re actively working on too. Wonderful collab between academics & investors Siddarth Shrikanth Joe W Bull Anil Madhavapeddy

SCADA Systems in PV Plants: A SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system is a crucial component of modern photovoltaic (PV) power plants. It enables efficient monitoring, control, and optimization of the entire system, from solar panels to energy output. Key Components of a PV Plant SCADA System: * Remote Terminal Units (RTUs): * These devices collect data from various sensors and actuators located throughout the plant. * They measure parameters like solar irradiance, temperature, voltage, current, and inverter status. * RTUs transmit this data to the SCADA master station. * Communication Network: * The network connects RTUs to the central SCADA system. * It can be wired (e.g., Ethernet, fiber optic) or wireless (e.g., cellular, Wi-Fi). * A reliable communication network ensures seamless data transfer. * SCADA Master Station: * This central control center receives and processes data from RTUs. * It displays real-time information on human-machine interface (HMI) screens. * The SCADA master station can also send control commands to RTUs to adjust inverter settings or trigger alarms. * Human-Machine Interface (HMI): * The HMI provides a user-friendly interface for operators to monitor and control the plant. * It displays key performance indicators (KPIs) like energy generation, inverter efficiency, and system health. * Operators can use the HMI to identify and troubleshoot issues remotely. Benefits of SCADA Systems in PV Plants: * Enhanced Performance Monitoring: * Real-time data on solar irradiance, temperature, and inverter performance helps optimize energy output. * Early detection of performance degradation enables timely maintenance. * Improved Reliability and Availability: * Remote monitoring and control minimize downtime and reduce operational costs. * Predictive maintenance strategies can be implemented based on data analysis. * Enhanced Security: * SCADA systems can include security features like access control and intrusion detection. * This helps protect the plant from cyber threats and unauthorized access. * Optimized Energy Production: * Data-driven decision-making can lead to increased energy production and reduced operational expenses. * SCADA systems can help identify and address factors affecting energy output, such as shading and inverter efficiency.

Monitoring and optimizing the performance of solar energy systems requires careful tracking of various parameters. Here are some key parameters to evaluate: 1. Energy Production (kWh) - What to check: Total energy generated by the solar panels. - Why: This helps assess if the system is generating the expected amount of energy. 2. Performance Ratio (PR) - What to check: Ratio of actual energy produced to the theoretical maximum energy. -Why: A key metric to understand how efficiently the solar system is operating. 3. Capacity Factor - What to check: The ratio of the actual output over a period to the maximum possible output. - Why: This provides insight into the utilization of the system's installed capacity. 4. Irradiance (W/m²) - What to check: Solar irradiance at the site. -Why: This shows the amount of sunlight available for conversion into electricity and helps identify inefficiencies. 5. System Availability - What to check: The amount of time the system is operational. - Why: Downtime due to maintenance or failures affects overall performance, so this metric helps in minimizing losses. 6. Temperature of Modules - What to check: Module temperature during operation. - Why: Higher temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar panels, so it's crucial to monitor. 7. Inverter Efficiency - What to check: How well the inverter is converting DC to AC electricity. - Why: Inverter losses can lead to performance degradation; maintaining high efficiency is critical. 8. Degradation Rate - What to check: Annual rate of performance loss in solar modules. - Why: Understanding how much performance decreases over time ensures accurate long-term planning. 9. Shading Loss - What to check: Losses due to shading from trees, buildings, or other objects. - Why: Shading can significantly reduce performance and must be minimized or mitigated. 10. Soiling Loss - What to check: Energy losses due to dirt, dust, or debris on the panels. - Why: Regular cleaning schedules can be optimized based on the soiling losses. 11. Grid Outages - What to check: Instances when the grid is down, affecting the solar system's ability to export energy. - Why: Frequent outages impact overall energy delivery and system profitability. 12. Module Mismatch - What to check: Variations in performance between different panels in the same array. - Why: Mismatches can lead to power loss and underperformance of the overall system. 13. Fault Detection - What to check: Occurrence of issues such as string faults, inverter malfunctions, or grounding problems. - Why: Early detection of faults helps maintain high system performance and reduce downtime. By closely monitoring these parameters, you can optimize the system's efficiency, reduce losses, and ensure the highest possible energy yield.

Understanding Pyranometers, GHI, GTI, and Performance Benchmarking Across Solar Plant Blocks to study plant performance effectively. In utility-scale solar plants, accurate irradiance measurement is the foundation of performance analysis. Here's a simplified yet technically strong breakdown for those managing multi- sites of solar assets or looking to enhance plant monitoring systems. 1. What is a Pyranometer? A pyranometer is a precision sensor that measures solar radiation on a surface (W/m²). It’s essential for: GHI (Global Horizontal Irradiance) GTI (Global Tilted Irradiance) Key for PR calculation, fault diagnostics, real data validation, and prediction on expected energy output and plant pros and cons study 2. GHI vs GTI – What's the Difference? GHI: Solar radiation on a flat surface. Direct sunlight Diffused radiation Ground-reflected radiation GTI: Radiation on the module’s tilt. Better represents energy received by your panels. Use GTI for real performance correlation across inverters. 3. Irradiance vs Insolation Irradiance: Instant solar power (W/m²). Example: 1000 W/m² at noon or real time . Insolation: Total daily energy (kWh/m²/day) – used in Helioscope, PVsyst, etc. to analysis Use both to understand short-term vs. daily trends. 4. Managing Multiple GTIs Across 3–5 km When managing large solar sites with multiple blocks: Installation Tips: Match module tilt & azimuth. Avoid shadow zones Clean glass regularly Calibrate every 2 years Performance Check: Compare GTIs via SCADA or datalogger Acceptable variation: 3–5% Investigate if >5% consistently: Sensor drift Dirt or droppings Loose cables Local cloud pattern 5. Advanced Considerations Spectral mismatch: Pyranometers and PV cells behave differently under cloudy/filtered light. Temperature effect: Ensure ISO Class A-grade sensors for stability. Ventilation units: Prevent fog/dust on high-end sensors (e.g., SMP22, SR30). Shadow rings/albedometers: For diffuse/reflected radiation data. GTI-inverter drop alerts: Use GTI drops + relay trips to predict snow/dust events or plant anomalies. Conclusion Pyranometer data = Solar plant intelligence. Consistent GTI data block-wise = Accurate inverter benchmarking. Better visibility = Better decisions!

What happens when gender isn’t part of your project cycle? Inequities, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities. Here’s how to mainstream gender at each phase of the project cycle: Programming and Identification: ➔ Conduct a gender analysis to understand roles, needs, and barriers faced by men, women, and marginalised groups. Planning and Design ➔Set gender-specific objectives, ensure budgets include resources for gender-related activities, and design interventions that address identified gaps. Implementation ➔Ensure inclusive participation in activities, provide gender-responsive training, and integrate tools that accommodate diverse needs. Monitoring ➔Disaggregate data by gender to assess equitable participation and benefits, and adapt strategies based on findings. Evaluation ➔Use gender-sensitive indicators to measure impact and involve diverse stakeholders to capture all perspectives. Mainstreaming gender through each phase ensures projects are equitable, inclusive, and impactful! 🔔 Follow me #Gender #GenderMainstreaming

3/100 Solar ( Project, O&M , BESS ) 1. PM – Preventive Maintenance Conducted as per a predefined schedule, before faults occur — to ensure reliability and prevent breakdowns. 🔹 Solar PV Modules Cleaning as per schedule (weekly/bi-weekly/monthly; check water TDS). Visual inspection for cracks, hotspots, PID effect, or discoloration. IV Curve Testing – once annually. String monitoring – ensure current mismatch < 5%. 🔹 Inverter Periodic firmware updates and performance checks. Cooling system inspection (fans and heat sinks). DC bus capacitor and relay health check. Tightening of all terminals and Insulation Resistance (IR) testing. 🔹 AC Side (Transformer, Panels, Cables) Transformer oil testing (BDV, moisture, acidity). Testing of circuit breakers (VCB/ACB/MCCB). Protection relay testing (O/C, E/F, SPD). Earth resistance measurement (< 1 ohm recommended). 🔹 Balance of System (BOS) SCADA system health check and sensor calibration (irradiance, temperature). Weather station inspection. Cable trench cleaning and rodent-proofing. 2. CM – Corrective Maintenance Performed after a fault occurs to restore equipment operation. Faulty PV module replacement. Inverter tripping → fault reset or control board replacement. Blown string fuse → fuse replacement. Cable fault → megger testing + re-jointing or re-laying. Damaged SPD/lightning arrestor → replacement. 3. BM – Breakdown Maintenance Executed after total equipment failure, to bring the system back to operation. Transformer failure → replacement or rewinding. Major inverter card or controller failure → OEM support required. Fire-damaged ACDB/DCDB → complete panel replacement. 4. RCM – Reliability Centered Maintenance Focuses on maximizing reliability of critical solar components through risk analysis. Critical equipment: Inverter, Transformer, SCADA, HT Panel. Apply Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to set priority levels. Example: Inverter downtime causes high generation loss → assign high maintenance priority. 5. TPM – Total Productive Maintenance Operators: Monitor string performance through SCADA daily. Perform module cleaning and visual checks for any abnormalities. Maintenance Team: Perform relay testing, insulation resistance testing, transformer oil testing, and thermal scanning. 6. PdM – Predictive Maintenance Uses data analytics and monitoring tools to predict and prevent future faults. Analyze SCADA data for inverter efficiency drop or string mismatch. Drone-based thermography for hotspot identification. Harmonics analysis on the AC side. 7. AM – Autonomous Maintenance Operators perform routine cleaning and visual checks. Identify minor faults (loose cables, burnt connectors, damaged MC4s). Record inverter HMI alarms and unusual readings in daily logs. Check earthing rod condition, DB door locks, and general panel cleanliness. Ensure string monitoring and visual inspection of junction boxes.

Comprehensive Guide to Solar O&M (Operations & Maintenance) What is Solar O&M? Solar O&M refers to the set of activities required to keep a solar plant running efficiently throughout its lifecycle. It includes: ✅ Preventive Maintenance – Regular inspections and servicing to avoid failures. ✅ Corrective Maintenance – Quick troubleshooting and repairs when an issue arises. ✅ Performance Monitoring – Tracking generation data to optimize output. ✅ Cleaning & Vegetation Management – Ensuring panels are free from dust, debris, and shade obstructions. ✅ Inverter & Battery Maintenance – Checking key components to maintain efficiency. ✅ Warranty & Compliance Management – Ensuring adherence to manufacturer guidelines and regulatory norms. Why is Solar O&M Important? 🔹 Maximizes Energy Output – A well-maintained plant operates at peak efficiency. 🔹 Extends Equipment Life – Reduces wear and tear on inverters, panels, and other components. 🔹 Prevents Revenue Loss – Identifies issues before they impact generation. 🔹 Ensures Safety & Compliance – Reduces fire risks and meets regulatory standards. 🔹 Optimizes Return on Investment (ROI) – Increases long-term profitability. Types of Solar O&M Services 1️⃣ Preventive Maintenance • Routine inspections of panels, inverters, and cables. • Identifying early signs of wear, corrosion, or degradation. • Thermographic (IR) scanning for overheating components. 2️⃣ Corrective Maintenance • Addressing inverter failures, which cause ~70% of solar system breakdowns. • Replacing faulty modules, connectors, and fuses. • Restoring system connectivity and optimizing power flow. 3️⃣ Cleaning & Vegetation Control • Removing dust, bird droppings, and pollutants that reduce efficiency. • Preventing shading losses due to growing trees or overgrown vegetation. • Using robotic cleaning for large solar farms to reduce water usage. 4️⃣ Remote Monitoring & Analytics • Real-time tracking of Performance Ratio (PR), Capacity Utilization Factor (CUF), and inverter efficiency. • AI-driven predictive maintenance to detect early-stage failures. • Alerts for underperforming panels, temperature spikes, or abnormal current fluctuations. 5️⃣ Inverter & Battery Storage Maintenance • Checking MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) algorithms for efficiency. • Ensuring battery life cycle management in hybrid solar + storage systems. • Preventing thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. Challenges in Solar O&M ⚡ Weather Impact ⚡ High Inverter Failure Rate ⚡ Remote Site Management ⚡ Water Usage in Cleaning Emerging Trends in Solar O&M 🚀 Drones & AI for Inspections. 🚀 Robotic Cleaning Systems. 🚀 Predictive Maintenance with IoT. 🚀 Automated Performance Optimization. #SolarOM #OperationsAndMaintenance #RenewableEnergy #SolarEfficiency #Sustainability #SmartEnergy #cleanenergy

🔧☀️ Your Rooftop Solar System Might Look Fine… But Is It Really Performing at Its Peak? Many rooftop PV systems quietly lose efficiency, suffer from hidden faults, or even risk electrical failures — all due to poor preventive maintenance. That’s why a solid 6-step checklist isn’t optional — it’s essential. 🚨 Before the next outage or performance dip surprises you… ask: Are these 6 steps in your routine maintenance plan? 👇 Here’s the engineer’s checklist for peak reliability and power output: ✅ 1. Visual Inspection of Panels Look for cracks, discoloration, dirt buildup, or shading. 🧠 Tip: Use drones for safer rooftop scans. ✅ 2. Panel Cleaning Dirt reduces efficiency by up to 15%. 🧼 Use deionized water and soft brushes — avoid peak sun hours. ✅ 3. Electrical Connection Check Loose MC4s or overheating terminals are silent killers. 🌡 Thermal cameras help detect heat signatures before failure. ✅ 4. Inverter Performance Verification Compare actual vs expected yield. 📊 Efficiency should remain above 95% for string inverters. ✅ 5. Battery Health Monitoring (if applicable) Track SoH and charge/discharge cycles. ⚡ Replace if SoH drops below 80%. ✅ 6. Earthing & Lightning Protection Check Poor grounding can destroy your system in a flash. 🌩 Ensure grounding resistance is < 5 ohms. 🎯 Preventive maintenance increases lifespan, improves efficiency, and prevents costly downtime — especially in industrial or critical-use rooftop solar systems. 🔁 Run this checklist every 6 months and watch your ROI soar. ♻️ Repost to share with your network if you find this useful. 🔗 Follow Ashish Shorma Dipta for more posts like this. #SolarEnergy #RenewableEnergy #RooftopSolar #SolarMaintenance #CleanEnergy #ElectricalEngineering

This document is not a summary or a position paper. It is a hands-on manual built to equip cooperation actors with a standardized methodology for gender analysis across development and humanitarian contexts. Developed by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, it combines legal frameworks, practical tools, and field-tested approaches to transform how gender is integrated into project cycles. For M&E professionals and practitioners, it is not just a reference—it is a system to identify inequalities, adapt interventions, and embed gender equality from design to evaluation. The manual provides operational tools, procedures and guidance to apply gender analysis effectively across cooperation initiatives: – A structured methodology for integrating gender equality into all phases of programming, from baseline to evaluation – Standard tools to collect, interpret and act on sex-disaggregated and intersectional data – Frameworks for general, sectoral and project-level gender analyses, with clear examples and applications – Checklists and indicators aligned with the EU Gender Action Plan and OECD Gender Marker system – Practical guidance on how to avoid harm, support transformation, and apply a rights-based approach – Strategies for intersectional analysis, including gender-age-disability dimensions and context-sensitive adaptation – Step-by-step instructions for participatory analysis involving local actors, WROs, institutions and civil society – Examples of transformative approaches across social, economic, political, cultural and environmental dimensions This is not about adding gender to existing plans—it is about rethinking those plans through a gender lens. It empowers practitioners to make gender analysis visible, operational, and accountable.