Optimization of Converters in a 5 MW PV Plant

Context and Challenge

A 5 MW solar photovoltaic plant located in Murcia (Spain) was experiencing the following issues:

• Voltage and current fluctuations, causing frequent and sudden disconnections of two 2.5 MW converter units.

• Risk of electrical stress damage (overvoltages and transient currents) to converters and other electrical assets.

• Costly reactive maintenance and unexpected shutdowns, reducing the overall reliability of the plant.

The operator aimed to increase effective energy production, reduce downtime, and extend the lifespan of critical assets within the PV generation facility.

Solution Implemented by Energy in the Cloud

Energy in the Cloud deployed an end-to-end solution based on digital intelligence and advanced control systems, structured in several stages:

1. Study and Analysis

• Comprehensive assessment of the behavior of the generation plant and the distribution network to which it was connected.

• Collection and analysis of electrical parameters (voltages, currents, harmonics).

2. Control and Reconfiguration

• Configuration and adaptation of real-time control algorithms that adjust protection strategies without altering modulation or switching, in response to variable grid conditions and solar irradiation.

• On-site simulation of overvoltage phenomena to validate the system’s response.

• Reconfiguration of protection parameters (limits, thresholds, response times) according to the identified operational state.

• Validation testing performed directly at the generation site.

3. Advanced Protection and Fault Isolation

• Implementation of additional protection layers (transient monitoring, active filters) with proactive activation of corrective measures.

• Gradual load limitation strategies under critical scenarios to prevent severe damage or complete system failures.

4. Operational Optimization and Proactive Maintenance

• Generation of a trend analysis report, including alerts and preventive action recommendations.

• Maintenance planning and definition of optimized operational criteria.

Results Achieved

• Increased effective production, thanks to reduced downtime and improved operational efficiency.

• Significant reduction of critical converter failures.

• Extended equipment lifespan, with reduced electrical stress and slower internal degradation.

• Lower maintenance costs, enabled by a proactive and predictive strategy that allows minor interventions to be scheduled at optimal times.

• High operational reliability, with increased “uptime” and overall plant profitability.

Energy in the Cloud’s Unique Value

This success story highlights Energy in the Cloud’s capabilities to:

• Integrate digital intelligence, machine learning, and real-time control in power systems.

• Deliver scalable and adaptable solutions for various converter technologies (PV inverters, wind converters, battery systems, etc.).

• Transform critical operational data into automated protection and optimization actions.

• Provide tangible value in terms of efficiency, reliability, and risk reduction for renewable generation plants.

• Position itself as a strategic technology partner in the clean energy market.