Enhancing Operational Excellence through Weather Monitoring Systems

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving renewable energy sector, real-time environmental data has become indispensable for optimizing asset performance and enabling intelligent operations. Among the most critical technologies supporting this transformation is the Weather Monitoring System (WMS) a key enabler for the data-driven operation and maintenance of utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants.

As part of our continued commitment to operational excellence, Aeron Systems conducted a comprehensive training session for the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) team at the DEWA-VI Solar PV Project in Dubai. The program focused on the application, interpretation, and integration of high-accuracy weather monitoring systems, empowering the team to harness data for better asset management, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization.

The Critical Role of Weather Monitoring in Solar PV Operations

Solar PV output is inherently tied to fluctuating atmospheric conditions. Variables such as solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speed, humidity, and soiling losses have a direct, quantifiable impact on plant generation efficiency and equipment health. Even marginal deviations in these parameters, if undetected or misinterpreted, can result in significant performance losses, accelerated degradation, or inefficient maintenance cycles.
To mitigate such risks, DEWA-VI has adopted Class A compliant Weather Monitoring Stations, developed by Aeron Systems in accordance with the IEC 61724-1:2021 standard. These systems deliver bankable, high-resolution environmental data with the accuracy and reliability required for advanced solar asset management.

Training Objectives

The training program was structured around seven key learning modules, each designed to build a strong foundational and operational understanding of WMS among the DEWA-VI O&M team:

Introduction to Aeron Systems and WMS Technology

Participants were introduced to Aeron Systems, a leading provider of precision environmental monitoring solutions, with deployments across over 35+ GW of solar assets worldwide. The session included an overview of our R&D capabilities. manufacturing infrastructure, and global experience with IEC-compliant sensor integration and data logging technologies.

Components of a Weather Monitoring Station

The team explored the technical composition of the WMS, including:

• Pyranometers (GHI, GTI, DHI, DNI)
• Soiling sensors
• Ambient and module temperature sensors
• Wind speed and direction sensors
• Relative humidity and precipitation sensors

Each sensor’s role in performance modeling, PR calculation, and operational decision-making was discussed in depth.

Data Acquisition and Interpretation

Participants were trained to extract, visualise, and interpret real-time weather data, using both SCADA interfaces and Aeron’s cloud-based analytics platform. They learned how each parameter influences plant behavior and how weather anomalies can impact operational efficiency or trigger performance alerts.

SCADA Integration and Data Flow

A key focus area was the integration of WMS data with SCADA systems, enabling seamless flow of information into plant dashboards and analytics modules. Topics included data polling via Modbus protocols, real-time visualization, event-based alarms, and the use of WMS data for automated O&M responses.

Predictive Maintenance Enablement

Using historical and real-time weather trends, the team was shown how to:

• Forecast soiling rates and plan module cleaning schedules
• Detect early signs of thermal stress or equipment overloading
• Predict yield variations and prepare operational contingencies

This predictive approach enhances system reliability and reduces unplanned outages.

Safety Protocols and Environmental Alerts

The session detailed how WMS-generated alerts can be configured to notify the team of extreme weather conditions—including gusty winds, storms, or heat events. Safety protocols for such scenarios, including equipment isolation and dynamic load management, were discussed.

Sensor Maintenance and Calibration

To preserve measurement integrity, the training emphasized:

• Periodic cleaning schedules
• Recommended calibration cycles (as per IEC guidelines)
• Preventive maintenance best practices

This ensures long-term data accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Operational Impact of WMS Training

Following the training, DEWA-VI O&M staff are now better equipped to:

• Interpret environmental trends and take timely action
• Optimize solar plant performance through weather-informed strategies
• Reduce operational costs via predictive and condition-based maintenance
• Improve asset longevity by mitigating weather-induced stress
• Respond faster to adverse weather conditions, enhancing plant safety

Strategic Value of Class A WMS for Asset Management and Bankability

The implementation of Aeron’s IEC 61724-1:2021 Class A weather monitoring systems not only enhances technical performance but also significantly improves the project’s bankability and investor appeal. These stations provide

• High-fidelity, auditable data for yield estimation and performance modelling
• Third-party verifiable benchmarks for lenders and insurers
• Robust documentation supporting Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) compliance
• Greater transparency for due diligence, refinancing, or M&A scenarios

For large-scale solar assets, bankable data translates directly into financial confidence, de-risked investments, and premium project valuation.

Conclusion and Forward Path

This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering field teams with the tools, knowledge, and systems required to maintain world-class solar plant operations. The DEWA-VI training reflects the evolving role of O&M professionals—from routine maintenance providers to data-driven performance managers.
As solar infrastructure continues to scale, the integration of advanced environmental monitoring systems like the WMS will be instrumental in achieving sustainable, resilient, and economically viable clean energy production.

Author: Saurabh Dey
Designation: General Manager – Strategy & Operations (IoT)
Date: 17th February 2025