Kiwa ExTEL Expands into Southeast Asia with Two Exclusive Inspection Services
As of the end of 2023, the total installed capacity of solar projects in operation in the Philippines reached an impressive 1.4 GW. Among them, Luzon Island, a well-known tourist destination, serves as a major base for solar projects, with a total construction capacity of 926 MW. Vena Energy in the Philippines recently commissioned Kiwa ExTEL to perform ”Module Power Measurement WiS” and “Pyranometer Reading Calibration OPC” for large-scale projects, providing on-site equipment testing without the need for costly laboratory expenses.
Kiwa ExTEL’s patented technology supports the solar module performance.
The Philippine government actively promotes the development of the solar industry , with the number of solar projects exceeding 250 this year aiming for 15 GW in the future. Vena Energy has constructed over 270 MW of solar projects and commissioned Kiwa ExTEL to conduct module power measurements and pyranometer reading calibrations. Fred Chen, General Manager of Kiwa ExTEL, stated that module power measurement is a critical service for Kiwa ExTEL, ensuring the normal operation and monitoring the power degradation of PV modules.
As module power decreases over time, requiring maintenance, Mr. Chen explained that the company possesses exclusive patented technology that allows engineers to accurately measure module degradation onsite without dismantling and sending modules to laboratories. If the module degradation exceeds the warranty standard, the WiS data and reports provided by Kiwa ExTEL can directly assist customers in claiming module replacements and compensation from manufacturers. In recent years, the company has served domestic and Southeast Asian customers with over 1 GW of PV projects.
Innovative Service - On-site Pyranometer Calibration without Disassembly
In addition to solar modules, pyranometers are essential instruments for measuring solar radiation intensity. By comparing pyranometer readings with power generation, the PR value of a solar project can be determined. Incorrect data, such as improper angle tilts, moisture ingress, or damage of pyranometer can affect PR value accuracy and lead to misjudgment of energy generation.
Pyranometers need to be disassembled and sent to laboratories for calibration every two years, which not only complicates the process for customers but also results in a lack of solar radiation data during disassembly. Recognizing this, Kiwa ExTEL provides on-site pyranometer calibration services in accordance with international standard ISO 9847, endorsed by banks and consulting companies, becoming a valuable asset for customer maintenance teams. Currently, Kiwa ExTEL has conducted over 60 pyranometer calibrations for Vena Energy's projects in the Philippines.
Establishing Offices in the Philippines to Enter the Southeast Asian Market
Regarding the establishment of offices in the Philippines and Southeast Asia in the future, General Manager, Fred Chen, stated that under the cooperation established with Filipino customers over the past few years, the team has earned the trust of many enterprises through professional technology and high-quality services. In order to be closer to customers and expand the company's influence in Southeast Asia, the establishment of offices is under evaluation. Kiwa ExTEL is preparing to enter the Southeast Asian market with more advanced technology and services.
Reporter: Business Times - Chen Yanwei