Solar & EV Charging ●From previous page
“Relying on solar PV installations alone can be precarious – but diversifying
into the areas such as the operation and maintenance (O&M) sector can provide new opportunities and more importantly, save jobs in the industry.”
So what options are there? The good news is there are a range of different options available to PV installers looking to broaden their service offering. Storage batteries allow solar producers to store unused energy to use on cloudier days and at night – and the removal of the FiT could encourage more people to consider investing in one. With the likes of Ikea offering more affordable versions of batteries it’s becoming an increasingly attractive option for homeowners and small businesses.
Although battery installation requires additional skills, it’s worth considering adding to your service offering to take advantage of their increasing popularity. Electric cars offer another opportunity for growth. As the push towards
zero-emissions vehicles continues, the UK’s electric car market is growing – with car makers such as Volkswagen announcing big plans to ramp up production of their zero-emissions models.
O&M
Although there are a range of options available to PV installers, the majority do require additional training and skills to get started. While these may be valuable investments, Michael believes operations and maintenance is a better option. It might seem like a daunting prospect – but Michael is sure most PV installers will already have everything they need to get started. He said: “PV installers already have a wealth of transferable resources to get
started with O&M – including contacts, equipment and employees. What’s more, the equipment and software required is accurate, user-friendly and cost-effective.” Seaward’s range of professional test solutions has been carefully
developed to enable engineers to quickly, easily and comprehensively ensure the electrical integrity of PV systems.
28 | electrical wholesalerApril 2019
And because Seaward’s devices are designed to provide all-in-one solutions for 1000V and 15000V PV arrays, you can use them as part of an O&M offering too. Michael explained: “The benefit of moving into O&M is that one piece of
kit can instantly allow engineers to branch out and diversify, allowing them to offer additional services without investing in expensive new equipment.” Cleaning is also a useful tool for boosting your maintenance packages. PV arrays rely on staying clean to work effectively – and dusty panels can
seriously hamper their efficiency. Including a regular cleaning service as an upsell on your existing
packages is great for providing extra revenue, while also maximising your clients’ output. Michael continued: “Using a PV testing tool such as the PV200 allows you
to show clients the benefit of cleaning their modules – and they’ll be more inclined to sign up to long-term cleaning and maintenance contracts.”
What does the future hold for solar businesses? Michael believes the solar market will eventually readjust to the changes. He explained: “From my experience, I think we will see PV installs increasing again – although it is unlikely to reach the same level without new subsidies.”
And solar producers remain optimistic for the future of renewable energy in the UK. Cost reductions over recent years mean solar technology has become more affordable – dropping 90% since 2010. With an average domestic solar system now costing around £5,000 –
down from £12,000 in 2010 – it’s now much more cost effective for homeowners to generate their own power. As long as solar continues to become a more affordable source of
renewable power and the Government remains focused on environmental power, the future remains bright for the UK’s solar sector Michael added: “There are some fantastic opportunities available for solar businesses that take this opportunity to diversify and thrive in this ever- changing industry.”
seaward.co.uk ewnews.co.uk
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