Technical training
Solar Technical Training Standard / V1 02072025
of solar panels also presents a particular manual handling hazard, due to the large dimensions and exposure to wind in the environment.
Electrical Hazards: Solar farms utilise high-voltage electrical systems presenting a risk of arc flash, electrical burns or electrocution during serious faults or emergencies. Specialised electrical equipment like inverters, transformers, and battery energy storage systems, require trained personnel to handle incidents involving these technologies. Fire Hazards: The large number of panels, wiring, and equipment creates a high fire load, and fires can spread rapidly, potentially damaging equipment and disrupting power generation. Organic materials growing within the solar farm can provide a further fire load meaning careful management and removal of dry growth must be ensured to reduce serious fire hazards. Coordination and Communication: Effective communication and coordination between site workers, emergency responders, utility personnel, and local authorities are crucial for managing emergencies at solar farms. Fires or other incidents at solar farms can pose a risk to nearby communities and require a coordinated response to ensure public safety. Extreme Weather: Due to the remote and open area locations selected for utility-scale solar farms, they may be susceptible to extreme weather events like hail, wind, and lightning, which can damage panels, inverters, and other infrastructure and create challenges for safe work and emergency response. Environmental Concerns: Waste materials on utility-scale solar sites can have environmental consequences, requiring planned management, control and disposal of site waste, as well as specialised cleanup procedures and coordination with environmental agencies.
3.
Major Components for Utility-Scale Solar PV
A utility-scale solar PV power plant includes several key components working together efficiently to convert solar energy into usable electrical power:
Photovoltaic (PV) Modules / Solar Panels •
PV Modules or Solar Panels are composed of solar cells converting sunlight directly into electrical current.
• Panels are systematically arranged in extensive arrays, optimally angled and positioned to maximise exposure to sunlight throughout the year.
Inverters •
Inverters are essential for converting the direct current (DC) output from the PV panels into alternating current (AC), enabling grid integration.
Global Wind Organisation / www.globalwindsafety.org
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