Solar Install developed fault

[Sargan]

I have a 12 panel array … BenQ 330W panels, Solar Edge Micro-controllers and Inverter.

On Solar Edge App, shows 1 panel as not generating any output.
Panels & Solar Edge kit all under warranty but installation company has ceased trading … what’s my best approach, get an experienced PV electrician to swap over micro controllers on a good panel to bad ?Then if proven get a replacement under warranty.

Or is there a more logical approach?

secondly .. anybody in or know of a guy in S.Wales who could do this work ?

 

[swaRRR]

Has it ever worked or is this a new fault?

 

[Sargan]

All 12 panels worked fine for since install (5 years)
One has ceased generation .... all other 11 working fine.
Suggested that it's probably the Solar Edge Optimiser fitted to rear of panel.

Check would be to swap out with one of the 11 good ones ... will prove if faulty.
Optimisers are under 25 yr guarantee by the manufacturer, but the firm that supplied & installed has ceased trading (like many PV companies)

 

[James]

Speak to the manufacturer,
they should be able to provide a list of local firms that support there equipment

 

[Sargan]

Raised a support tkt.
They will investigate remotely and advise if it needs replacing under warranty.

 

[Sargan]

On trawling through paperwork .... found (and not on contract docs) seems there is a warranty assurance mentioned ... under RECC Assurance scheme.

It does state that 'Pinnacle Renewables is a member of the RECC Assurance Scheme, we are required to have arrangements in place so that your workmanship warranty from us will still be honoured if we go out of business during warranty period"


These sounds initially good until the next section "Your warranty is insured under Deposit and Workmanship Insurance (DAWWI) Scheme You have a 5 yr insurance policy through QANW, covering workmanship and product"


So that has expired .... so I'm back to the beginning, and its product warranty direct with the manufacturer

 

[bigspark17]

Just removed the optimizer? Are your panels subject to shading?

 

[Sargan]

I have not removed optimiser .. and no shading of any form.