Renewables
Algerian solar study shows impact of maintenance on plant yield
A six-year assessment of a solar facility in Algeria highlights how pandemic restrictions affected output.
Key points
- Researchers analysed six years of operational data from a 12 MW solar plant in Sidi Bel-Abbes.
- Performance dropped in 2020 due to reduced maintenance during COVID-19 restrictions.
- The performance ratio recovered to 84.83% by 2023, according to pv magazine.
Researchers at Djillali Liabes University evaluated a 12 MW grid-connected solar installation in Sidi Bel-Abbes, Algeria, covering the years from 2018 to 2023, pv magazine reported. The study tracked operational metrics and meteorological data to understand long-term plant efficiency.
Maintenance and performance
The facility recorded a marked performance decline in 2020. pv magazine noted that researchers linked the drop to reduced cleaning and upkeep caused by COVID-19 restrictions. "This drop in yield underscores the crucial role of regular maintenance," the researchers stated. According to World Bank figures from 2021, renewable sources accounted for 0.9% of Algeria's electricity output, making the operational efficiency of existing infrastructure critical for the region.
Long-term recovery
Following the disruptions of 2020, the plant's performance ratio rebounded, reaching 84.83% by 2023. The six-year average performance ratio stood at 82.6%, demonstrating competitive long-term resilience despite temporary operational setbacks and highlighting the necessity of sustained cleaning protocols.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Renewables are the fastest-growing part of the world’s energy system. The COP28 goal is to triple capacity by 2030, and solar mini-grids are the fastest route to power for millions of people without electricity.
0.9% of electricity in Algeria was renewable in 2021Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
