By Doug Broach, TrinaPro Business Development Manager

Utility-scale solar in the U.S. has remained resilient despite the pandemic. With renewable energy leading the way for the country’s energy systems, utility solar is only expected to continue its growth trajectory. However, the rewards of rapid growth come with a greater chance for risks.

This means it’s imperative that EPCs and project developers streamline operations and optimize efficiency to mitigate risks and remain competitive in the utility-scale solar sector. Risks must be identified, assessed and managed throughout every stage of the project, from initial planning and design through to interconnection and operation.

TrinaPro, the all-in-one smart solar solution, helps EPCs and developers mitigate the risks commonly found in utility-scale solar projects. Consider these eight potential utility solar project risks, and how TrinaPro can deliver the right solution to ensure project success:

Risk #1 – Preliminary Design Risk

Poor system design can create a ripple effect of risks down the pipeline. This may include a lack of component interoperability, inefficient use of space and subpar system performance. The first risk leads to delays, the second leaves unrealized value on the table, while the third one prolongs return on investment (ROI).

The TrinaPro Solution: The engineers at Trina Solar draft a custom site design that ensures optimal component interoperability, maximized site value and peak system performance.

Risk #2 – Component Procurement Risk

Demand for solar PV modules, inverters and trackers will only increase as the utility solar sector continues to grow. This demand can create logistic problems such as component unavailability, which could require an additional round of procurement.

The TrinaPro Solution: TrinaPro guarantees product availability for all modules and components included in the initial design.

Risk #3 – Purchasing Risk

EPCs and project developers typically have to source components from various distributors and suppliers. This approach can create scheduling and component interoperability problems.

The TrinaPro Solution: As an all-in-one solution, TrinaPro completes the purchasing process with one purchase order, one credit check and one supplier for all three of the core PV project components.

Risk #4 – Scheduling Risks

Staggered component delivery can wreak havoc on a project’s schedule, leading to delays and increased labor costs.

The TrinaPro Solution: With a global supply chain and seamless procurement management, TrinaPro ensures on-time delivery so projects stay on schedule and on budget.

Risk #5 – Integration Risk

Sourcing components from numerous vendors can lead to poor or even unsuccessful system integration.

The TrinaPro Solution: The TrinaPro team custom designs each PV project to ensure optimized integration and component interoperability.

Risk #6 – Installation Risk

Lack of communication and insufficient on-site training can create faulty installations that limit PV system performance or even cause system damage.

The TrinaPro Solution: TrinaPro provides a full week of tracker assembly and installation instructions on the field to ensure a smooth process. In addition, TrinaPro value-engineers the system layout to make installations as easy and efficient as possible.

Risk #7 – Commission Risk

Ensuring proper quality control for the system is crucial for project success. When it comes time for component-by-component testing, an unsuccessful test may result in the need for design modifications, which can significantly delay the project. Repeated unsuccessful attempts can cause potential cost drivers and budget overruns.

The TrinaPro Solution: When the project operator is ready to flip on the power switch, Trina technicians will be on-site to ensure everything is working correctly. This means no risk of surprises and delays in the commissioning process.

Risk #8 – Bankability Risk

EPCs and developers need to know the solar OEM and solutions provider they’re partnering with will be around for the long haul. The solar company should be just as reliable and durable as its products to ensure project performance over the PV system’s lifetime.

The TrinaPro Solution: Trina Solar has more than 20 years of industry experience and is a global leader in the solar industry. Bloomberg New Energy Finance has ranked Trina Solar as fully bankable five years in a row – the only solar OEM to earn this prestigious recognition.

Want to learn more about how TrinaPro mitigates risks to deliver utility solar project success? Click here to download the FREE TrinaPro Solution Guide Book.

This is the first part of a four-part series on utility-scale solar opportunities. Check back soon for more expert insight into this growing sector.

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